Richard's bookshelf: all en-US Sun, 29 Sep 2024 18:08:14 -0700 60 Richard's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[Close to the Bone (Detective Megan Thomas, #2)]]> 54137677 ‘You mean my sister Debbie? What are you talking about? You’ve arrested my sister?�
‘Megan, she’s our prime suspect.�

Detective Megan Thomas hoped that moving to Devon would mean a quiet life. Her years undercover in London left her broken and alone, unsure if she would ever recover. Slowly, she’s learning to work with a team and trust other people. But when her sister Debbie finds the body of local businessman Greg Porter, that peace is shattered.

Porter’s wife and children don’t seem entirely grief-stricken, and his business dealings are not all they appear to be. So why are the police so determined to focus on Debbie? And why is she acting so suspiciously? When Megan learns what happened between Porter and Debbie, it threatens to tear the family apart, and forces her to ask if her beloved sister could really have done something so terrible.

Her boss won’t allow her anywhere near the case, leaving Megan on the sidelines. Caught between the job she loves, and what she feels she must do, Megan finds herself faced with an impossible decision. She’s desperate to save her sister, but what if Debbie is lying? When a second body and a surprise confession takes the case into even muddier waters, Megan must decide where her loyalty lies � with her family, or the truth.

And whatever choice she makes, will she be able to live with herself?]]> 313 Susan Wilkins 1838885196 Richard 3
One trait the series is developing is to have multiple, apparently unconnected, story lines that come together at the end of the book. Tom Clancy uses a similar style in his books, but he does a much better job - here it feels somewhat contrived, and, since you know it's coming, you can see how things are probably going to connect (Clancy makes it nearly impossible).

Merged review:

A good sequel. I'm still bothered by the amount of profanity and sex in the stories, but most of it is applicable to the plot line and so not as gratuitous as it is in other books. DS Thomas's character continues to develop and, while she does some stupid things, they are in character.

One trait the series is developing is to have multiple, apparently unconnected, story lines that come together at the end of the book. Tom Clancy uses a similar style in his books, but he does a much better job - here it feels somewhat contrived, and, since you know it's coming, you can see how things are probably going to connect (Clancy makes it nearly impossible).]]> 4.30 2020 Close to the Bone (Detective Megan Thomas, #2)
author: Susan Wilkins
name: Richard
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2020/10/20
date added: 2024/09/29
shelves:
review:
A good sequel. I'm still bothered by the amount of profanity and sex in the stories, but most of it is applicable to the plot line and so not as gratuitous as it is in other books. DS Thomas's character continues to develop and, while she does some stupid things, they are in character.

One trait the series is developing is to have multiple, apparently unconnected, story lines that come together at the end of the book. Tom Clancy uses a similar style in his books, but he does a much better job - here it feels somewhat contrived, and, since you know it's coming, you can see how things are probably going to connect (Clancy makes it nearly impossible).

Merged review:

A good sequel. I'm still bothered by the amount of profanity and sex in the stories, but most of it is applicable to the plot line and so not as gratuitous as it is in other books. DS Thomas's character continues to develop and, while she does some stupid things, they are in character.

One trait the series is developing is to have multiple, apparently unconnected, story lines that come together at the end of the book. Tom Clancy uses a similar style in his books, but he does a much better job - here it feels somewhat contrived, and, since you know it's coming, you can see how things are probably going to connect (Clancy makes it nearly impossible).
]]> Just Stab Me Now 195500935
Caroline Lindley is determined that her new romance novel will be her best one yet. Fantasy! Formal gowns! Fencing! And, of course, a twentysomething heroine to star in an enemies-to-lovers plot with all of Caroline’s favourite tropes.

But Lady Rosamund Hawkhurst is a thirty-six-year-old widow with two children, her sole focus is facilitating a peace treaty between her adopted nation and her homeland, and she flatly refuses to take the correct approach to there being Only One Bed.

What’s an author to do?

Based on her popular Fantasy Heroine YouTube Shorts series, Jill Bearup’s debut novel brings us the best of worlds both meta and medieval-inspired. Terry Pratchett aficionados will enjoy the political intrigue paired with convivial, tongue-in-cheek satire. And then there's the slow-burn, fade-to-black romance too . . .

If you loved Stranger Than Fiction and The Princess Bride, you will soon find yourself cheering on enemies-to-BFFs Rosamund and Caroline as together they learn what it means to be the hero of your own story.]]> 309 Jill Bearup Richard 5 4.29 2024 Just Stab Me Now
author: Jill Bearup
name: Richard
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/22
date added: 2024/06/22
shelves:
review:
I watched the videos on YouTube and was anxiously looking forward to the book itself. You never know how well the author will make the transition - but this was excellent. Not only did the book do justice to the videos, it was actually better than I expected. Add to that the mixing with the "author's" personal life (and now the characters in the book keep getting involved) and you have a truly great read.
]]> <![CDATA[Arctic Storm Rising (Nick Flynn #1)]]> 55501754
After a CIA covert mission goes badly awry, U.S. Air Force intelligence officer Nicholas Flynn is exiled to guard a remote radar post along Alaska’s Arctic frontier. This dead-end assignment is designed to put his career permanently on ice, but Flynn’s not the type to fade quietly into obscurity...

As winter storms pound Alaska and northern Canada, Russian aircraft begin penetrating deep into friendly airspace. Are these rehearsals for a possible first strike, using Russia’s new long-range stealth cruise missiles? Or is some other motive driving the Kremlin to take ever-increasing risks along the hostile Arctic frontier separating two of the world’s great powers?

When an American F-22 collides with one of the Russian interlopers, things go south fast—in seconds, missiles are fired. There are no survivors. Despite horrific weather, Flynn and his security team are ordered to parachute into the area in a desperate bid to reach the crash sites ahead of the Russians. It’s now obvious that the Pentagon and CIA are withholding vital information, but Flynn and his men have no choice but to make the dangerous jump.

Soon they’re caught in a deadly game of hide-and-seek with Spetsnaz commandos operating covertly on American soil. It seems that the F-22s and their Russian counterparts aren’t the first aircraft to have gone missing in these desolate mountains. The Kremlin is hunting for the first prototype of its new stealth bomber—which vanished on what was supposed to be a test flight…while loaded with nuclear-armed stealth cruise missiles.

As Russia and the U.S. square off on the brink of all-out-war, it’s up to Nick to find the missing bomber…and prevent a potential nuclear holocaust.]]> 400 Dale Brown Richard 2
Most of the characters have some trait that will make them useful to the story, but otherwise would not be expected; I find that particular plot device annoying enough when it's one or two characters, but having most of them turn out that way really gets to me.

*** Spoiler alert ***
Then we have the plot - such as it is.

The ideas that the Russians would: a) Load up an aircraft with live nucs, b) Not tell the US that they've got a rogue pilot who has stolen a stealth bomber WITH LIVE NUCS - but penetrate US airspace, not only with reconnaisance aircraft but also fighters and helicopters, c) Send in troops with orders to engage in combat with US troops, ON US SOIL, are all ridiculous.

Then we have the Russian prime minister who can't help but put the worst possible interpretation on everything going on is absurd; the author attempts to cover for this by pointing out his political challenges, but that it wholly inadequate. The rogue pilot - at least there is a semblance of justification for his position (and the timing), but it's amazing how little the tumor in his head comes into play (except when it's a useful plot device).

I was going to list all the problems I found (AK-12? The AK series of weapons is numbered based on year of design. Caliber 5.45 mm? Try 5.56, and that's an AK-74.), but decided it would take too long.

The only good thing is that the method used for the extortion attempt was very, very creative.]]> 4.33 2021 Arctic Storm Rising (Nick Flynn #1)
author: Dale Brown
name: Richard
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2023/12/06
date added: 2023/12/06
shelves:
review:
I was very disappointed in the book. The plot itself isn't the main problem, that role is filled by the characters. Nick Flynn (who, since this is the first book in a series with his name, should be well-developed) is unrealistic. He's an Air Force spook who then moves into a role where he commands infantry - and that's just one example.

Most of the characters have some trait that will make them useful to the story, but otherwise would not be expected; I find that particular plot device annoying enough when it's one or two characters, but having most of them turn out that way really gets to me.

*** Spoiler alert ***
Then we have the plot - such as it is.

The ideas that the Russians would: a) Load up an aircraft with live nucs, b) Not tell the US that they've got a rogue pilot who has stolen a stealth bomber WITH LIVE NUCS - but penetrate US airspace, not only with reconnaisance aircraft but also fighters and helicopters, c) Send in troops with orders to engage in combat with US troops, ON US SOIL, are all ridiculous.

Then we have the Russian prime minister who can't help but put the worst possible interpretation on everything going on is absurd; the author attempts to cover for this by pointing out his political challenges, but that it wholly inadequate. The rogue pilot - at least there is a semblance of justification for his position (and the timing), but it's amazing how little the tumor in his head comes into play (except when it's a useful plot device).

I was going to list all the problems I found (AK-12? The AK series of weapons is numbered based on year of design. Caliber 5.45 mm? Try 5.56, and that's an AK-74.), but decided it would take too long.

The only good thing is that the method used for the extortion attempt was very, very creative.
]]> <![CDATA[A Deceptive Clarity (The Chris Norgren Mysteries, #1)]]> 979044 251 Aaron Elkins 0449149005 Richard 4
The military side - not so accurate, and the damage done at various points would have been more serious than in the book.

Looking forward to reading more of the series.]]> 3.66 1987 A Deceptive Clarity (The Chris Norgren Mysteries, #1)
author: Aaron Elkins
name: Richard
average rating: 3.66
book published: 1987
rating: 4
read at: 2021/01/21
date added: 2023/11/30
shelves:
review:
A good book - well written, difficult to figure out but it all makes sense in the end. Lots of false trails to follow as well.

The military side - not so accurate, and the damage done at various points would have been more serious than in the book.

Looking forward to reading more of the series.
]]> The Last Night 39856460 An Ambulance Took Her Away . . . And He Never Saw Her Again

Seven and a half years ago, Ethan's wife had a medical emergency in the middle of the night. An ambulance arrived and took her away. Except when Ethan showed up at the hospital, there was no record of his wife ever being admitted. In fact, Emergency Services reported that no ambulance was even dispatched to his address.



A Face He'll Never Forget

Now that the courts have declared his wife dead in absentia, Ethan feels he can finally move on with his life. Except a television news report about a fatal accident reveals that the victim was one of the "medics" that took his wife away.



The First Lead in Seven and a Half Years

With the first "lead" since his wife's disappearance, Ethan discovers tracks down the crime from that night and learns that it was more than a kidnapping, more than anything he could have ever imagined. As more "medics" show up dead, Ethan should walk away.



He Must Choose Between The Truth and Finding His Wife

When it comes to the only woman he has ever loved, it's not quite that simple.



What happens when Ethan risks everything, including his own life and freedom, to chase a woman who might be a ghost?

Find out in The Last Night by Harvey Church



SCROLL UP AND GET YOUR COPY TODAY! ]]> 379 Harvey Church Richard 1
Then we have the "hero" of the story who simply can NOT believe that his wife is dead. After the umpteenth time of him going on about how she's coming back I wanted to say "OK, we get it! He can't move past it! Now stop spending entire paragraphs about how certain he is that she's coming back!"

Move further into the book and we find that he believes that he may have beaten his wife. Really? He's so confident that his wife - gone for seven and a half years - is coming back that he's remodeling the apartment so she'll recognize it, but also believes that he has blackouts (no justification given for that at all) and may have beaten her? Then we have pictures of domestic abuse (no real explanation for where those came from) showing all sorts of bruising (and I have to say that too many platelets leads to excessive clotting, not excessive/easy bruising) - but he doesn't remember seeing her bruised?!? Did these supposed blackouts last for weeks at a shot?

I could go on, but let me jump to the end here. While it's never really explained, apparently she came up with a wonder drug that wipes out the physical addiction to narcotics. The one description of the individual in the book sounds more like meth, but I digress. It seems that the government doesn't want this drug out there. I say "seems" because it's never really stated. And the ONE PERSON who is helping Raleigh on her mission to save the world - BEATS HER HUSBAND TO WITHIN AN INCH OF HIS LIFE, and acts like he wanted to go one more inch. Why? Because he found her? I don't know.]]> 3.84 The Last Night
author: Harvey Church
name: Richard
average rating: 3.84
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2023/11/10
date added: 2023/11/11
shelves:
review:
I'm sorry, but I really can't figure out the high ratings on this book - I'd give it zero stars. I knew with in pages that the main point of the book had to do with something the pharmaceutical company had done - that was obvious. From that point on I was hoping for some stunning revelation of the "why" - but that was not to be.

Then we have the "hero" of the story who simply can NOT believe that his wife is dead. After the umpteenth time of him going on about how she's coming back I wanted to say "OK, we get it! He can't move past it! Now stop spending entire paragraphs about how certain he is that she's coming back!"

Move further into the book and we find that he believes that he may have beaten his wife. Really? He's so confident that his wife - gone for seven and a half years - is coming back that he's remodeling the apartment so she'll recognize it, but also believes that he has blackouts (no justification given for that at all) and may have beaten her? Then we have pictures of domestic abuse (no real explanation for where those came from) showing all sorts of bruising (and I have to say that too many platelets leads to excessive clotting, not excessive/easy bruising) - but he doesn't remember seeing her bruised?!? Did these supposed blackouts last for weeks at a shot?

I could go on, but let me jump to the end here. While it's never really explained, apparently she came up with a wonder drug that wipes out the physical addiction to narcotics. The one description of the individual in the book sounds more like meth, but I digress. It seems that the government doesn't want this drug out there. I say "seems" because it's never really stated. And the ONE PERSON who is helping Raleigh on her mission to save the world - BEATS HER HUSBAND TO WITHIN AN INCH OF HIS LIFE, and acts like he wanted to go one more inch. Why? Because he found her? I don't know.
]]> Medieval Sieges & Siegecraft 6957463 240 Geoffrey Hindley 1602396337 Richard 1
This is not what I was looking for; your mileage may vary.]]> 3.44 2009 Medieval Sieges & Siegecraft
author: Geoffrey Hindley
name: Richard
average rating: 3.44
book published: 2009
rating: 1
read at: 2020/02/24
date added: 2023/07/28
shelves:
review:
I was expecting a scholarly treatise on weapons development (e.g. how they moved from catapults to trebuchets) - this is not a scholarly work (I'm not sure it pretends to be). There are a lot of stories about how this battle or that siege took place, but the book just touches on them lightly. The diagrams seem to come from one of two sources, and add little to the text; I would have appreciated maps and drawings showing the various parts of the castle that were being attacked.

This is not what I was looking for; your mileage may vary.
]]> <![CDATA[Come Get Me (Caitlin Dare, #1)]]> 75504430
COME GET ME is book #1 of a brand-new series by critically acclaimed and #1 bestselling mystery and suspense author Molly Black, whose books have received over 2,000 five-star reviews and ratings.


The FBI is alarmed by the rash of killings on trains throughout the country, and they realize they have to put together a joint task force to tackle it. Through a partnership with the rail police, FBI Special Agent Cailtin Dare is chosen to spearhead the new unit designed to hunt killers using trains across the country.

But Cailtin remains haunted by memories of her missing sister, her unsolved case, her erratic conductor uncle, and a harrowing fear of trains.

Can Caitlin keep her own demons at bay long enough to face her past—and catch a killer?


A page-turning and harrowing crime thriller featuring a brilliant and tortured FBI agent, the Caitlin Dare series is a riveting mystery, packed with non-stop action, suspense, twists and turns, revelations, and driven by a breakneck pace that will keep you flipping pages late into the night. Fans of Rachel Caine, Teresa Driscoll and Robert Dugoni are sure to fall in love.]]> 194 Molly Black Richard 1
Background: Both Nathan and Caitlin have just done something that irked their respective bosses, and so been assigned to work together on a new "task force" - OK, not really plausible, but we'll let that one slide.

Moving forward, both are so focused on getting back in their boss's good graces that they won't work together. At all. Both feel that they have to be the one to solve the case, and they're at each other's throats - until, magically, they aren't.

The speed of the investigation - there have been two murders and they have to solve the case - NOW. In fact, at one point one of the bosses tells them that they have to finish solving it TODAY because otherwise the budget hearings will cut the budget for their "task force" - which was formed less than 24 hours previous (they're the first two members).

Trains. Granted that these trains may not be Amtrak (though, since they're wandering in different states I think they are), the idea that someone can ride past their stop with no one noticing is ridiculous. The conductors are constantly checking the trains to make sure you don't do that. The idea that someone could push into a "Staff only" area on the train is laughable. The idea that you can change seats without a conductor noticing - also laughable.

Special Agent Dare keeps identifying herself as "Police" or "Agent Dare." FBI agents do NOT identify themselves as "Police," they say "FBI." And they're not "agents" - they're "Special agents."

The killer. We get this vague idea of why he's killing - but nothing about the reason why a specific type of victim draws his attention.

The dialog - somewhere between pre-adolescent and adolescent.


**** Spoilers
Firing someone over the phone - no way. Especially when you tell the person that it's because someone on their team wanted someone else and so they're being replaced - although they could maybe get a transfer...

A boyfriend - in a relationship where the girl isn't sure it's going anywhere - decides to up and move because she's going to move somewhere? All kidding about commitment aside, there is no way that's going to happen.]]> 3.91 2023 Come Get Me (Caitlin Dare, #1)
author: Molly Black
name: Richard
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2023
rating: 1
read at: 2023/06/15
date added: 2023/06/15
shelves:
review:
It's rare that I disagree with so many people, but this book was so out of touch with reality that I can't give it anything more.

Background: Both Nathan and Caitlin have just done something that irked their respective bosses, and so been assigned to work together on a new "task force" - OK, not really plausible, but we'll let that one slide.

Moving forward, both are so focused on getting back in their boss's good graces that they won't work together. At all. Both feel that they have to be the one to solve the case, and they're at each other's throats - until, magically, they aren't.

The speed of the investigation - there have been two murders and they have to solve the case - NOW. In fact, at one point one of the bosses tells them that they have to finish solving it TODAY because otherwise the budget hearings will cut the budget for their "task force" - which was formed less than 24 hours previous (they're the first two members).

Trains. Granted that these trains may not be Amtrak (though, since they're wandering in different states I think they are), the idea that someone can ride past their stop with no one noticing is ridiculous. The conductors are constantly checking the trains to make sure you don't do that. The idea that someone could push into a "Staff only" area on the train is laughable. The idea that you can change seats without a conductor noticing - also laughable.

Special Agent Dare keeps identifying herself as "Police" or "Agent Dare." FBI agents do NOT identify themselves as "Police," they say "FBI." And they're not "agents" - they're "Special agents."

The killer. We get this vague idea of why he's killing - but nothing about the reason why a specific type of victim draws his attention.

The dialog - somewhere between pre-adolescent and adolescent.


**** Spoilers
Firing someone over the phone - no way. Especially when you tell the person that it's because someone on their team wanted someone else and so they're being replaced - although they could maybe get a transfer...

A boyfriend - in a relationship where the girl isn't sure it's going anywhere - decides to up and move because she's going to move somewhere? All kidding about commitment aside, there is no way that's going to happen.
]]> The Mabinogion Tetralogy 168525 The retelling of the epic Welsh myth that is "certainly among the top 5 fantasy series of the twentieth century" (sfsite.com).

The Mabinogion is to Welsh mythology what the tales of Zeus, Hera, and Apollo are to Greek myth. these tales constitute a powerful work of the imagination, ranking with Tokien's Lord of the Rings novels and T.H. White's The Once and Future King. Evangeline Walton's compelling rendition of these classic, thrilling stories of magic, betrayal, lost love, and bitter retribution include the encounter between Prince Pwyll and Arawn, the God of Death, which Pwyll survives by agreeing to kill the one man that Death cannot fell, and the tale of bran the blessed and his family's epic struggle for the throne.

The Mabinogion is internationally recognized as the world's finest arc of Celtic mythology; Walton's vivid retelling introduces an ancient world of gods and monsters, heroes, kings and quests, making accessible one of the greatest fantasy sagas of all time.

]]> 720 Evangeline Walton 1585675040 Richard 3 4.22 2002 The Mabinogion Tetralogy
author: Evangeline Walton
name: Richard
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2002
rating: 3
read at: 2023/05/15
date added: 2023/06/15
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[America's Forgotten Army: The True Story of the U.S. Seventh Army in WWII - And An Unknown Battle that Changed History (Forgotten Aspects of World War Two)]]> 63890991 An enthralling account of the World War Two exploits of the U.S. Seventh Army, from Sicily to France to the final assault on Hitler’s mountain retreat, the Eagle’s Nest.

Perfect for fans of Gregory A. Freeman, Alex Kershaw and Hampton Sides.

Although overshadowed by the other Allied armies fighting in Europe, the impact of the U.S. Seventh Army on the course of the Second World War was monumental and its achievements deserve to be remembered.

In Sicily, under the command of General George S. Patton, it swept away Axis forces as it captured village after village. It then moved northwards charging “up the gut� of Nazi-held Europe.

Charles Whiting uncovers the actions of this overlooked army and its men � charging against dug-in German machine gun nests, launching ferocious attacks on the bloodied snows of the Alps, and fending off terrifying Panzer-led counterattacks.

This book also draws attention to many of the fascinating figures who led it, from Patton to his successor as commander of the Seventh General Alexander “Sandy� Patch, to the numerous brilliant soldiers that fought under them, including the dynamic Lucian Truscott, daredevil Robert T. Frederick, aggressive “Iron Mike� O’Daniel, talented Frenchman Jacques LeClerc, and of course America’s most decorated soldier, Audie Murphy.

“an enjoyable and illuminating account of this relatively forgotten army’s distinguished career.� HistoryNet

“The U.S. Seventh Army has never had a volume devoted to thoroughly documenting its actions in WWII. Charles Whiting rights that wrong.� Publishers Weekly

America’s Forgotten Army should be essential reading for all wishing to find out more about this force that smashed Nazi forces wherever it met them.]]> 280 Charles Whiting 1800557566 Richard 0 to-read 4.27 1999 America's Forgotten Army: The True Story of the U.S. Seventh Army in WWII - And An Unknown Battle that Changed History (Forgotten Aspects of World War Two)
author: Charles Whiting
name: Richard
average rating: 4.27
book published: 1999
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/04/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Cloud Collector's Handbook]]> 6461062 144 Gavin Pretor-Pinney 0340919434 Richard 0 to-read 4.35 2009 The Cloud Collector's Handbook
author: Gavin Pretor-Pinney
name: Richard
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/03/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Standard Deviations: Flawed Assumptions, Tortured Data, and Other Ways to Lie with Statistics]]> 18693973

As Nobel Prize–winning economist Ronald Coase once cynically observed, “If you torture data long enough, it will confess.� Lying with statistics is a time-honored con. In Standard Deviations, economics professor Gary Smith walks us through the various tricks and traps that people use to back up their own crackpot theories. Sometimes, the unscrupulous deliberately try to mislead us. Other times, the well-intentioned are blissfully unaware of the mischief they are committing. Today, data is so plentiful that researchers spend precious little time distinguishing between good, meaningful indicators and total rubbish. Not only do others use data to fool us, we fool ourselves.


With the breakout success of Nate Silver’s The Signal and the Noise, the once humdrum subject of statistics has never been hotter. Drawing on breakthrough research in behavioral economics by luminaries like Daniel Kahneman and Dan Ariely and taking to task some of the conclusions of Freakonomics author Steven D. Levitt, Standard Deviations demystifies the science behind statistics and makes it easy to spot the fraud all around.]]> 304 Gary Smith 146830920X Richard 0 to-read 3.89 2014 Standard Deviations: Flawed Assumptions, Tortured Data, and Other Ways to Lie with Statistics
author: Gary Smith
name: Richard
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/03/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Unknown Battle of Midway: The Destruction of the American Torpedo Squadrons]]> 923665 A story of avoidable mistakes and flawed planning, The Unknown Battle of Midway reveals the enormous failures that led to the destruction of four torpedo squadrons but were omitted from official naval the planes that ran out of gas, the torpedoes that didn’t work, the pilots who had never dropped torpedoes, and the breakdown of the attack plan. Alvin Kernan, who was present at the battle, has written a troubling but persuasive analysis of these and other little-publicized aspects of this great battle. The standard navy tactics for carrier warfare are revealed in tragic contrast to the actual conduct of the battle and the after-action reports of the ships and squadrons involved.]]> 208 Alvin Kernan 030010989X Richard 4
There does seem to be some bias based on opinions formed at the time and then kept (the down side to having a first-hand account).

Overall an excellent read and I recommend it.]]> 3.68 2005 The Unknown Battle of Midway: The Destruction of the American Torpedo Squadrons
author: Alvin Kernan
name: Richard
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at: 2023/02/26
date added: 2023/03/16
shelves:
review:
A good summary of the actions of the various torpedo, fighter, and bomber squadrons involved in the battle. Good personal information (the author was there), and includes a lot of detail that you don't usually see in a historical account.

There does seem to be some bias based on opinions formed at the time and then kept (the down side to having a first-hand account).

Overall an excellent read and I recommend it.
]]> <![CDATA[Mastering the Art of Command: Admiral Chester W. Nimitz and Victory in the Pacific]]> 60572629 Mastering the Art of Command is a detailed examination of Admiral Chester W. Nimitz's leadership during World War II. It describes how he used his talents to guide the Pacific Fleet following the attacks on Pearl Harbor, win crucial victories against the forces of Imperial Japan, and then seize the initiative in the Pacific. Once Nimitz's forces held the initiative, they maintained it through an offensive campaign of unparalleled speed that overcame Japanese defenses and created the conditions for victory.�

As a command and operational history, Mastering the Art of Command explores how Nimitz used his leadership skills, command talents, and strategic acumen to achieve these decisive results. Hone recounts how Nimitz, as both Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet (CINCPAC) and Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Ocean Areas (CINCPOA), revised and adapted his organizational structure to capitalize on lessons and newly emerging information. Hone argues that Nimitz--because he served simultaneously as CINCPAC and CINCPOA--was able to couple tactical successes to strategic outcomes and more effectively plan and execute operations that brought victory at Midway, Guadalcanal, the Marshall Islands, the Philippines, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. �

As a study of leadership,�Mastering the Art of Command uses modern management theories, and builds upon the approach in his award-winning Learning War. Trent Hone explores the challenge of leadership in complex adaptive systems through Nimitz's behavior and causes us to reassess the inevitability of Allied victory and the reasons for its ultimate accomplishment. A new narrative history of the Pacific war, this book demonstrates effective patterns for complexity-informed leadership by highlighting how Nimitz maintained coherence within his organization, established the conditions for his subordinates to succeed, and fostered collaborative sense-making to identify and pursue options more rapidly. Nimitz's "strategic artistry" is a pattern worthy of study and emulation, for today's military officers, civilian leaders, and managers in large organizations.� � ​]]> 448 Trent Hone 1682475956 Richard 5
The book discusses leadership techniques and uses FADM Nimitz command in the Pacific during WW II exemplifies them. There was no single static technique; he adapted to changing situations and conditions, both with respect to men/materiel and the actions of the enemy. There are a lot of good lessons in here, including the introduction of a number of concepts I see taught today in the National Inicident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS). His handling of the new information available to both ship and fleet commanders is excellent; he adapted and changed how commanders did their jobs to incorporate the new information (as opposed to simply doing things the way they had always been done). His attitude of treating mistakes as being one of two types: Those you can learn from, and Those you shouldn't have made is something every leader should study.

If you are in a leadership position, you should read this book.]]> 4.31 2022 Mastering the Art of Command: Admiral Chester W. Nimitz and Victory in the Pacific
author: Trent Hone
name: Richard
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2023/02/20
date added: 2023/02/20
shelves:
review:
I rarely give books a five-star rating, and my first thought was that this wasn't quite there - but it's close enough.

The book discusses leadership techniques and uses FADM Nimitz command in the Pacific during WW II exemplifies them. There was no single static technique; he adapted to changing situations and conditions, both with respect to men/materiel and the actions of the enemy. There are a lot of good lessons in here, including the introduction of a number of concepts I see taught today in the National Inicident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS). His handling of the new information available to both ship and fleet commanders is excellent; he adapted and changed how commanders did their jobs to incorporate the new information (as opposed to simply doing things the way they had always been done). His attitude of treating mistakes as being one of two types: Those you can learn from, and Those you shouldn't have made is something every leader should study.

If you are in a leadership position, you should read this book.
]]> <![CDATA[Twentieth Century Journey: The Start (1904-1930), The Nightmare Years (1930-1940), A Native's Return (1945-1988)]]> 36565544 Fall of the Third Reich, William Shirer was an important witness to
the rise of Nazi Germany.




The Start (1904-1930) :
In the first of a three-volume series, he tells the story of his early
life.




The Nightmare Years (1930-1940) :
In the second of a three-volume series, Shirer chronicles his time in
Europe as Hitler dominated Germany and began one of the most dangerous
conflicts in world history.




A Native’s Return (1945-1988) :
The most personal of the three volumes, this edition offers an honest look
at the many personal and professional setbacks Shirer experienced after
World War II ended-and a fascinating take on the aftermath of the war.]]> 1999 William L. Shirer Richard 0 to-read 4.43 Twentieth Century Journey: The Start (1904-1930), The Nightmare Years (1930-1940), A Native's Return (1945-1988)
author: William L. Shirer
name: Richard
average rating: 4.43
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/02/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Learning War: The Evolution of Fighting Doctrine in the U.S. Navy, 1898-1945 (Studies in Naval History and Sea Power)]]> 37640652 Learning War examines the U.S. Navy's doctrinal development from 1898-1945 and explains why the Navy in that era was so successful as an organization at fostering innovation. A revolutionary study of one of history's greatest success stories, this book draws profoundly important conclusions that give new insight, not only into how the Navy succeeded in becoming the best naval force in the world, but also into how modern organizations can exploit today's rapid technological and social changes in their pursuit of success.

Trent Hone argues that the Navy created a sophisticated learning system in the early years of the twentieth century that led to repeated innovations in the development of surface warfare tactics and doctrine. The conditions that allowed these innovations to emerge are analyzed through a consideration of the Navy as a complex adaptive system. Learning War is the first major work to apply this complex learning approach to military history. This approach permits a richer understanding of the mechanisms that enable human organizations to evolve, innovate, and learn, and it offers new insights into the history of the United States Navy.]]> 432 Trent Hone 1682472930 Richard 0 to-read 4.31 Learning War: The Evolution of Fighting Doctrine in the U.S. Navy, 1898-1945 (Studies in Naval History and Sea Power)
author: Trent Hone
name: Richard
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/02/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Winter Army: The World War II Odyssey of the 10th Mountain Division, America's Elite Alpine Warriors]]> 43261180 The epic story of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division, whose elite soldiers broke the last line of German defenses in Italy’s mountains in 1945, spearheading the Allied advance to the Alps and final victory.

At the start of World War II, the US Army had two cavalry divisions—and no mountain troops. The German Wehrmacht, in contrast, had many well-trained and battle-hardened mountain divisions, some of whom by 1943 blocked the Allied advance in the Italian campaign. Starting from scratch, the US Army developed a unique military fighting force, the 10th Mountain Division, drawn from the ranks of civilian skiers, mountaineers, and others with outdoor experience. The resulting mix of Ivy League students, park rangers, Olympic skiers, and European refugees formed the first specialized alpine fighting force in US history. By the time it deployed to Italy at the beginning of 1945, this ragtag group had coalesced into a tight-knit unit. In the months that followed, at a terrible cost, they spearheaded the Allied drive in Italy to final victory.

Ranging from the ski slopes of Colorado to the towering cliffs of the Italian Alps, The Winter Army is a saga of an unlikely band of soldiers forged in the heat of combat into a brotherhood whose legacy lives on in US mountain fighters to this day.]]> 336 Maurice Isserman 1328871436 Richard 0 to-read 3.82 2019 The Winter Army: The World War II Odyssey of the 10th Mountain Division, America's Elite Alpine Warriors
author: Maurice Isserman
name: Richard
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/02/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Frozen Hell: The Russo-Finnish Winter War of 1939-1940]]> 501337 285 William R. Trotter 1565122496 Richard 0 to-read 4.13 2000 A Frozen Hell: The Russo-Finnish Winter War of 1939-1940
author: William R. Trotter
name: Richard
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2000
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/02/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World]]> 10235 Mountains Beyond Mountains stands Paul Farmer. Doctor, Harvard professor, renowned infectious-disease specialist, anthropologist, the recipient of a MacArthur "genius" grant, world-class Robin Hood, Farmer was brought up in a bus and on a boat, and in medical school found his life’s calling: to diagnose and cure infectious diseases and to bring the lifesaving tools of modern medicine to those who need them most.

Mountains Beyond Mountains takes us from Harvard to Haiti, Peru, Cuba, and Russia as Farmer changes minds and practices through his dedication to the philosophy that "the only real nation is humanity"—a philosophy that is embodied in the small public charity he founded, Partners in Health. He enlists the help of the Gates Foundation, George Soros, the U.N.’s World Health Organization, and others in his quest to cure the world. At the heart of this book is the example of a life based on hope, and on an understanding of the truth of the Haitian proverb "Beyond mountains there are mountains": as you solve one problem, another problem presents itself, and so you go on and try to solve that one too.]]> 333 Tracy Kidder 0812973011 Richard 5 4.19 2003 Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World
author: Tracy Kidder
name: Richard
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2003
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2023/02/03
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[X, Y & Z: The Real Story of How Enigma Was Broken]]> 39305425 319 Dermot Turing 0750987820 Richard 5
Overall it's a very good book, not just about breaking the Enigma, but also about the political interactions over Poland as well as the effect the politics had on Poland as a country and a people.]]> 3.92 2018 X, Y & Z: The Real Story of How Enigma Was Broken
author: Dermot Turing
name: Richard
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/29
date added: 2023/01/29
shelves:
review:
There is some technical detail in here that's hard to follow if you're not into either cryptography or higher mathematics, but it's incidental to the story of how the Poles were involved in breaking the Enigma from before anyone else was really interested. The story of how it affected the characters is well told, but not overly dramatic. The problems of living in WW II Europe are explained as well.

Overall it's a very good book, not just about breaking the Enigma, but also about the political interactions over Poland as well as the effect the politics had on Poland as a country and a people.
]]> <![CDATA[The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert]]> 849380 271 John M. Gottman 0609805797 Richard 0 to-read 4.23 1999 The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert
author: John M. Gottman
name: Richard
average rating: 4.23
book published: 1999
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/11/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Strategy of Conflict 317330 328 Thomas C. Schelling 0674840313 Richard 0 to-read 4.03 1960 The Strategy of Conflict
author: Thomas C. Schelling
name: Richard
average rating: 4.03
book published: 1960
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/11/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[To Kill a Fae (The Dragon Portal, #1)]]> 51886547 The darkness holds more than just secrets...


Marked for death, Sabine escaped from her home more than ten years ago.

But the Wild Hunt will never give up.

It should have been easy to stay hidden. All Sabine had to do was keep her head down, avoid telling anyone about her past, and above all else -- not let her glamour drop.

Even the best-laid plans eventually fall apart.

When a charismatic stranger arrives in the city, Sabine finds herself unwittingly drawn to him and the power she can sense hidden within him. Keeping her distance is nearly impossible, especially after a life debt is called due and she’s tasked into helping steal a rare artifact.

Sabine is the only one who can break the magical barriers protecting the item, but that means revealing the truth about her identity and exposing her darkest secrets.

Unfortunately, the Fae aren’t the only ones hunting her.

And the most dangerous monsters aren’t always confined to the dark.

]]> 338 Jamie A. Waters Richard 1
This sexuality shows up on nearly EVERY PAGE OF THE BOOK - either her feelings towards them or their feelings toward her. A highly trained ship's captain, on a secret mission, disguised to prevent anyone knowing who/what he is - but he gets in her presence and can think of only one thing. It's too much. Couldn't finish (and that's rare for me), and I have no intention of reading anything else in the series.]]> 4.14 2019 To Kill a Fae (The Dragon Portal, #1)
author: Jamie A. Waters
name: Richard
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2019
rating: 1
read at: 2022/09/27
date added: 2022/09/27
shelves:
review:
I got just over a quarter of the way into it, and decided not to finish it. The plot line sounds - and potentially is - good. But the fact that the heroine is sexually attracted to both of the male leads, to the point that she can't act reasonably in their presence but is rather immediately distracted is ridiculous. Not only because it's denigrating to females in general, but also because she's supposedly highly trained and expert at hiding from those who seek to do her harm.

This sexuality shows up on nearly EVERY PAGE OF THE BOOK - either her feelings towards them or their feelings toward her. A highly trained ship's captain, on a secret mission, disguised to prevent anyone knowing who/what he is - but he gets in her presence and can think of only one thing. It's too much. Couldn't finish (and that's rare for me), and I have no intention of reading anything else in the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Fool Moon (The Dresden Files, #2)]]> 91477 Harry Dresden � Wizard

Lost Items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Business has been slow. Okay, business has been dead. And not even of the undead variety. You would think Chicago would have a little more action for the only professional wizard in the phone book. But lately, Harry Dresden hasn't been able to dredge up any kind of work � magical or mundane.

But just when it looks like he can't afford his next meal, a murder comes along that requires his particular brand of supernatural expertise.

A brutally mutilated corpse. Strange-looking paw prints. A full moon. Take three guesses--and the first two don't count...]]> 424 Jim Butcher 0451458125 Richard 4
I didn't like the plot as much as the first one - it's certainly convoluted enough, but just not as satifying.]]> 3.98 2001 Fool Moon (The Dresden Files, #2)
author: Jim Butcher
name: Richard
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at: 2022/09/23
date added: 2022/09/27
shelves:
review:
The book is consistent with the first one, and is quite good - I just have a hard time believing that a group of FBI agents would actually decide that the best way to do their job would be to become werewolves (OK, a type of werewolf).

I didn't like the plot as much as the first one - it's certainly convoluted enough, but just not as satifying.
]]> <![CDATA[Crystal Singer (Crystal Singer, #1)]]> 653711
Then she heard of the mysterious Heptite Guild on the planet Ballybran, where the fabled Black Crystal was found.

For those qualified, the Guild was said to provide careers, security, and the chance for wealth beyond imagining. The problem was, few people who landed on Ballybran ever left.

To Killashandra the risks were acceptable . . .]]> 311 Anne McCaffrey 0345327861 Richard 4
The characters are good - and they're consistent as you move through the series. Killashandra is a little over the top toward the end, but it's understandable and doesn't detract too much from the topic.

I like the little details that show up (for example, during their training period) - those add verisimilitude to the book and help you believe that this is something that's actually happening as opposed to a story where only the "important" parts are documented.]]> 4.10 1982 Crystal Singer (Crystal Singer, #1)
author: Anne McCaffrey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.10
book published: 1982
rating: 4
read at: 2022/09/18
date added: 2022/09/20
shelves:
review:
Another re-read. A good book, but I think it suffers from being based on several shorter stories. There are inconsistencies in it - a pet peeve of mine, your mileage may vary - but I still enjoy it quite a bit.

The characters are good - and they're consistent as you move through the series. Killashandra is a little over the top toward the end, but it's understandable and doesn't detract too much from the topic.

I like the little details that show up (for example, during their training period) - those add verisimilitude to the book and help you believe that this is something that's actually happening as opposed to a story where only the "important" parts are documented.
]]> <![CDATA[Storm Front (The Dresden Files, #1)]]> 47212 HARRY DRESDEN � WIZARD

Lost Items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Harry Dresden is the best at what he does. Well, technically, he's the only at what he does. So when the Chicago P.D. has a case that transcends mortal creativity or capability, they come to him for answers. For the "everyday" world is actually full of strange and magical things—and most don't play well with humans. That's where Harry comes in. Takes a wizard to catch a—well, whatever. There's just one problem. Business, to put it mildly, stinks.

So when the police bring him in to consult on a grisly double murder committed with black magic, Harry's seeing dollar signs. But where there's black magic, there's a black mage behind it. And now that mage knows Harry's name. And that's when things start to get interesting.

Magic - it can get a guy killed.]]> 372 Jim Butcher 0451457811 Richard 4 3.99 2000 Storm Front (The Dresden Files, #1)
author: Jim Butcher
name: Richard
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2022/09/04
date added: 2022/09/04
shelves:
review:
This was a very interesting book. The plot line and the character development are good. I like the snarky comments that are sprinkled throughout the book - they were quite good. The basic premise - that magic has come back to the real world - is also very interesting.
]]> <![CDATA[Closer to the Chest (The Herald Spy, #3)]]> 28534084 New York Times-bestselling author Mercedes Lackey's Herald Spy series, set in the beloved fantasy world of Valdemar

Herald Mags, the King of Valdemar’s Herald-Spy, has been developing a clandestine network of young informants who operate not only on the streets of the capital city of Haven, but also in the Great Halls and kitchens of the wealthy and highborn. In his own established alternate personas, Mags observes the Court and the alleys alike, quietly gathering information to keep Haven and the Kingdom safe.

His wife Amily, is growing into her position as the King’s Own Herald, though she is irritated to encounter many who still consider her father, Herald Nikolas, to be the real King’s Own. Nonetheless, she finds it increasingly useful to be underestimated, for there are dark things stirring in the shadows of Haven and up on the Hill.

Someone has discovered many secrets of the women of the Court and the Collegia—and is using those secrets to terrorize and bully them. Someone is targeting the religious houses of women, too, leaving behind destruction and obscene ravings.

But who? Someone at the Court? A disgruntled Palace servant? One of the members of the Collegia? Someone in the patriarchal sect of the god Sethor? Could the villain be a woman? And what is this person hoping to achieve? It isn’t blackmail, for the letters demand nothing; the aim seems to be the victims� panic and despair. But why?

Mags and Amily take steps to minimize the damage while using both magic and wits to find the evildoer. But just as they appear to be on the verge of success, the letter-writer tires of terror and is now out for blood.

Mags and Amily will have to track down someone who leaves few clues behind and thwart whatever plans have been set in motion, and quickly—before terror turns to murder.]]> 381 Mercedes Lackey 0698164164 Richard 4 4.17 2016 Closer to the Chest (The Herald Spy, #3)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2022/09/02
date added: 2022/09/02
shelves:
review:
Very well written - there were some subplots (which I like in a book), but somehow most of them seemed to peter out before being truly woven into the story line. The book is still worthy of the Valdemar name, however.
]]> <![CDATA[Closer to the Heart (The Herald Spy, #2)]]> 24586201
Sequel to Mercedes Lackey's Closer to Home, this adventure continues Mags's journey as Valdemar's herald spy.]]> 330 Mercedes Lackey 0756409004 Richard 4
The plot is excellent and well done. The investigators follow the evidence logically, and you get to follow along with. Do they make mistakes? Yes - and some of those are based on the characters' backgrounds (very well done).

So why not five stars? Because there areas where the characters' behavior is inconsistent with other books and principles in the series.]]> 3.99 2015 Closer to the Heart (The Herald Spy, #2)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2022/08/30
date added: 2022/08/31
shelves:
review:
Something has gone wrong in Valdemar once again - to be honest, it's amazing how much goes wrong there. On the other hand, if things didn't go wrong, what would there be to write about?

The plot is excellent and well done. The investigators follow the evidence logically, and you get to follow along with. Do they make mistakes? Yes - and some of those are based on the characters' backgrounds (very well done).

So why not five stars? Because there areas where the characters' behavior is inconsistent with other books and principles in the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Closer to Home (The Herald Spy, #1)]]> 20893366
Although normally a Herald in his first year of Whites would be sent off on circuit, Mags is needed close to home for his abilities as a spy and his powerful Mindspeech gift. There is a secret, treacherous plot within the royal court to destroy the Heralds. The situation becomes dire after the life of Mags' mentor, King's Own Nikolas, is imperiled. His daughter Amily is chosen as the new King's Own, a complicated and dangerous job that is made more so by this perilous time. Can Mags and Amily save the court, the Heralds, and the Collegium itself?]]> 361 Mercedes Lackey 0756408997 Richard 4
Other than that, an excellent addition to the Valdemar saga.]]> 3.96 2014 Closer to Home (The Herald Spy, #1)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2022/08/29
date added: 2022/08/30
shelves:
review:
An excellent book, but the characters sometimes wander out of character. Not a lot, and when they do it's to help the plot - but they do wander out.

Other than that, an excellent addition to the Valdemar saga.
]]> <![CDATA[Bastion (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #5)]]> 17707672 342 Mercedes Lackey 0756409446 Richard 4 3.97 2013 Bastion (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #5)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2022/08/24
date added: 2022/08/25
shelves:
review:
Again, re-reading the book because I enjoy the world of Valdemar. It's a very consistent and believable world (though there are some inconsistencies in the various series that bother me; inconsistencies are one of my pet-peeves), and one I could enjoy. The people are basically (but not entirely) good, and the writing is very good. I recommend the entire series.
]]> <![CDATA[The Murderer's Son (Jackman & Evans #1)]]> 32177597 Alternate cover edition of ASIN B01LWY0PUJ

What if your mother was a serial killer?

A BLOODY KILLER SEEMS TO HAVE RETURNED TO THE LINCOLNSHIRE FENS

A gripping new crime series by the best-selling author of the Nikki Galena series.

Twenty years ago: a farmer and his wife are cut to pieces by a ruthless serial killer.

Now: a woman is viciously stabbed to death in the upmarket kitchen of her beautiful house on the edge of the marshes.

Then a man called Daniel Kinder walks into Saltern police station and confesses to the murder.

But DI Rowan Jackman and DS Marie Evans of the Fenland Constabulary soon discover that there is a lot more to Daniel than meets the eye. He has no memory of the first five years of his life and is obsessed with who his real mother is.

With no evidence to hold him, Jackman and Evans are forced to let him go, and in a matter of days the lonely Lincolnshire Fens become the stage for more killings and Daniel has disappeared.

In a breathtaking finale, the truth about Daniel’s mother comes to light and DI Jackman and DS Evans race against time to stop more lives being destroyed.

The detectives: DS Marie Evans lost her husband in a motorbike accident and has personal connections to the case. DI Rowan Jackman leads the investigation. He is extremely smart and has a knack for bringing out the best in his diverse team, which includes the mysterious computer specialist Orac.

Full of twists and turns, this is a crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages until the shocking ending.

THIS BOOK IS NOT PART OF THE NIKKI GALENA SERIES BUT TAKES PLACE IN THE SAME STUNNING AREA

Perfect for fans of Rachel Abbott, Robert Bryndza, Mel Sherratt, Angela Marsons, Colin Dexter, or Ruth Rendell.
]]> 333 Joy Ellis Richard 1
In fact, the supposedly brilliant police can't seem to keep track of anyone. They have the girlfriend at the police station when David slips the leash (yet again) and, before they can get her to stay put (because they think she's at risk), someone comes to pick her up and they let her go. Not only do they let her go, they let her go with the wrong person.

The murderer (who is finally revealed because of really excellent police work, something that has been lacking up to this point) paralyzes the DS with a miracle drug. I say that for two reasons. First, it paralyzes all of her voluntary muscles EXCEPT those used to breathe (though he threatens her that if she keeps on wiggling around it might paralyze her diaphragm as well, which is ludicrous). That is completely impossible. Second, he has a second miracle drug that will counteract the first. AFAIK, there is no such drug - if you use a paralytic to set up a patient to place a breathing tube (intubation) and don't get the tube, either you breathe for the patient without the tube or they die. That's because they're paralyzed and can't breathe for themselves. If there were a drug to reverse the paralytic, it would be out there.

The sub-plots seem to be there because the author considers them necessary to explain what would otherwise be inexplicable behavior on the part of the characters. For example, the bad cop who is turned in by his partner. The only reason for this sub-plot that I can discern is to give the partner a reason for searching David's house and finding bloody clothing (which, had it come earlier, would have pointed to David as the murderer in a much more believable way than convenient fugue states) in order to explain why he found himself bleeding badly with no memory of how he was injured (another attempt to convince the reader that he's the murderer). The second has to do with Skye (David's girlfriend) - her boss is constantly helping her. Apparently the author figured that this wasn't going to be accepted as reasonable behavior because it turns out that Skye's boss is also her natural mother (Skye is adopted). Could have left that out entirely and lost exactly nothing.

I won't be reading anything else by this author.]]> 4.11 2014 The Murderer's Son (Jackman & Evans #1)
author: Joy Ellis
name: Richard
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2014
rating: 1
read at: 2022/08/21
date added: 2022/08/22
shelves:
review:
Where to begin? The first thing that hit me was that the person you're supposed to think is the murderer - David - has black-outs and the ability to escape from police custody or out from under the eyes of police assigned to watch him - but only when there is a murder. Once or twice - maybe. But every time? That made it obvious that he wasn't the murderer, especially when it kept on happening over and over and over and over.

In fact, the supposedly brilliant police can't seem to keep track of anyone. They have the girlfriend at the police station when David slips the leash (yet again) and, before they can get her to stay put (because they think she's at risk), someone comes to pick her up and they let her go. Not only do they let her go, they let her go with the wrong person.

The murderer (who is finally revealed because of really excellent police work, something that has been lacking up to this point) paralyzes the DS with a miracle drug. I say that for two reasons. First, it paralyzes all of her voluntary muscles EXCEPT those used to breathe (though he threatens her that if she keeps on wiggling around it might paralyze her diaphragm as well, which is ludicrous). That is completely impossible. Second, he has a second miracle drug that will counteract the first. AFAIK, there is no such drug - if you use a paralytic to set up a patient to place a breathing tube (intubation) and don't get the tube, either you breathe for the patient without the tube or they die. That's because they're paralyzed and can't breathe for themselves. If there were a drug to reverse the paralytic, it would be out there.

The sub-plots seem to be there because the author considers them necessary to explain what would otherwise be inexplicable behavior on the part of the characters. For example, the bad cop who is turned in by his partner. The only reason for this sub-plot that I can discern is to give the partner a reason for searching David's house and finding bloody clothing (which, had it come earlier, would have pointed to David as the murderer in a much more believable way than convenient fugue states) in order to explain why he found himself bleeding badly with no memory of how he was injured (another attempt to convince the reader that he's the murderer). The second has to do with Skye (David's girlfriend) - her boss is constantly helping her. Apparently the author figured that this wasn't going to be accepted as reasonable behavior because it turns out that Skye's boss is also her natural mother (Skye is adopted). Could have left that out entirely and lost exactly nothing.

I won't be reading anything else by this author.
]]> <![CDATA[Redoubt (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #4)]]> 13515085 330 Mercedes Lackey 0756407451 Richard 5 3.95 2012 Redoubt (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #4)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/21
date added: 2022/08/22
shelves:
review:
I like this sub-series a lot - have since I started reading it. So this was a re-read of a book I've read several times and I still enjoy it. The plot is good, the characters act in character, things go right - but not so right you can't believe it, and things go wrong. There's a little bit of luck - both good and bad - and the story sucks you in. I recommend the entire series.
]]> <![CDATA[Something for the Pain: Compassion and Burnout in the ER]]> 6881886 304 Paul Austin 0393337790 Richard 5
If you're interested in some of the nuts and bolts of emergency medicine, this book is for you.]]> 3.85 2009 Something for the Pain: Compassion and Burnout in the ER
author: Paul Austin
name: Richard
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2009
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/15
date added: 2022/08/18
shelves:
review:
I really enjoyed this book. The style is engaging, the stories realistic. The author isn't perfect, but the mistakes are all understandable and the reasons are given. Rather than feel like this person shouldn't be a doctor, you get insights into why the decisions were made and they are completely understandable.

If you're interested in some of the nuts and bolts of emergency medicine, this book is for you.
]]> <![CDATA[Changes (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #3)]]> 10724628 326 Mercedes Lackey 0756406927 Richard 4
The enemies of Valdemar aren't stupid - also a good thing. It's not easy to figure out what they're doing or why they're doing it. They continue to be ruthless - but their behavior is consistent across the series.

There is an underlying sub-plot that barely shows up in the first book and slowly develops and starts impinging on the main story line more and more.

Still minor consistency issues.]]> 3.96 2011 Changes (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #3)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2022/08/18
date added: 2022/08/18
shelves:
review:
The character development continues. The characters have family problems (just like in real life) - sometimes they deal with them, sometimes not. Sometimes they deal with them completely, and sometimes they just kick the can down the road. All very good.

The enemies of Valdemar aren't stupid - also a good thing. It's not easy to figure out what they're doing or why they're doing it. They continue to be ruthless - but their behavior is consistent across the series.

There is an underlying sub-plot that barely shows up in the first book and slowly develops and starts impinging on the main story line more and more.

Still minor consistency issues.
]]> <![CDATA[Intrigues (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #2)]]> 7884898
Magpie is a thirteen-year-old orphan chosen by one of the magical Companion horses of Valdemar and taken to the capital city, Haven, to be trained as a Herald. Like all Heralds, Magpie learns that he has a hidden Gift-the Gift of telepathy.

But life at the court is not without obstacles. When Mags is "recognized" by foreign secret operatives whose purpose is unknown, Mags himself comes under suspicion. Who are Magpie's parents-who is he, really? Can Mags solve the riddle of his parentage and his connection with the mysterious spies-and prove his loyalty-before the king and court banish him as a traitor?]]> 328 Mercedes Lackey 0756406390 Richard 4
Why only four stars? Occasional consistency errors.]]> 3.97 2010 Intrigues (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #2)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at: 2022/08/17
date added: 2022/08/18
shelves:
review:
I love this series - especially how the characters behave in believable ways. Specifically, they're not perfect, they make human mistakes (e.g. assuming the worst possible explanation is the valid one, even though it's not remotely feasible). Watching friends be supportive - but also have issues that result in falling out - is very realistic. The fact Mags doesn't get an automatic "all is forgiven" response, but rather has to prove himself again (at least to a point) is also much more realistic.

Why only four stars? Occasional consistency errors.
]]> <![CDATA[Foundation (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #1)]]> 463421 340 Mercedes Lackey 1423307941 Richard 4 4.03 2008 Foundation (Valdemar: Collegium Chronicles, #1)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at: 2022/08/18
date added: 2022/08/18
shelves:
review:

]]> Rita Moreno: A Memoir 17472969
Born Rosita Dolores Alverio in the idyll of Puerto Rico, Moreno, at age five, embarked on a harrowing sea voyage with her mother and wound up in the harsh barrios of the Bronx, where she discovered dancing, singing, and acting as ways to escape a tumultuous childhood. Making her Broadway debut by age thirteen--and moving on to Hollywood in its Golden Age just a few years later--she worked alongside such stars as Gary Cooper, Yul Brynner, and Ann Miller.

When discovered by Louis B. Mayer of MGM, the wizard himself declared: "She looks like a Spanish Elizabeth Taylor." Cast by Gene Kelly as Zelda Zanders in Singin' in the Rain and then on to her Oscar-winning performance in West Side Story, she catapulted to fame--yet found herself repeatedly typecast as the "utility ethnic," a role she found almost impossible to elude.

Here, for the first time, Rita reflects on her struggles to break through Hollywood's racial and sexual barriers. She explores the wounded little girl behind the glamorous facade--and what it took to find her place in the world. She talks candidly about her relationship with Elvis Presley, her encounters with Howard Hughes, and the passionate romance with Marlon Brando that drove her to attempt suicide. And she shares the illusiveness of a "perfect" marriage and the incomparable joys of motherhood.

Infused with Rita Moreno's quick wit and deep insight, this memoir is the dazzling portrait of a stage and screen star who longed to become who she really is--and triumphed.]]> 295 Rita Moreno 1101615222 Richard 5 4.01 2012 Rita Moreno: A Memoir
author: Rita Moreno
name: Richard
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/08
date added: 2022/08/10
shelves:
review:
I was very impressed with this book. All too many autobiographies I've read come across as either the person explaining just how wonderful they are, explaining away problems they've had, or both. In this case, the author points out her flaws - and not just in a way designed to show humility in the hopes of improving the reader's opinion of them.
]]> <![CDATA[Justice Hall (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #6)]]> 274400 The Moor, a bloodied but oddly familiar stranger pounds desperately on their front door, pleading for their help. When he recovers, he lays before them the story of the enigmatic Marsh Hughenfort, younger brother of the Duke of Beauville, returned to England upon his brother's death, determined to learn the truth about the untimely death of the hall's expected heir � a puzzle he is convinced only Holmes and Russell can solve.

It's a mystery that begins during the Great War of 1918, when young Gabriel Hughenfort, the late Duke's only son, died amidst scandalous rumors that have haunted the family ever since. While Holmes heads to London to uncover the truth of Gabriel's war record, Russell joins an ill-fated shooting party. A missing diary, a purloined bundle of letters, and a trail of ominous clues comprise a mystery that will call for Holmes's cleverest disguises and Russell's most daring journeys into the unknown, from an English hamlet to the city of Paris to the wild prairie of the New World. The trap is set, the game is afoot, but can they catch an elusive villain in the act of murder before they become his next victims?]]> 352 Laurie R. King 000711138X Richard 5 4.20 2002 Justice Hall (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #6)
author: Laurie R. King
name: Richard
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2002
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/08
date added: 2022/08/10
shelves:
review:
I particularly like this book because of the portrayal of old-English values . The detective work is excellent, the characters in fine form - I highly recommend it.
]]> <![CDATA[O Jerusalem (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #5)]]> 77259
At the close of the year 1918, forced to flee England's green and pleasant land, Russell and Holmes enter British-occupied Palestine under the auspices of Holmes' enigmatic brother, Mycroft.

"Gentlemen, we are at your service." Thus Holmes greets the two travel-grimed Arab figures who receive them in the orange groves fringing the Holy Land. Whatever role could the volatile Ali and the taciturn Mahmoud play in Mycroft's design for this land the British so recently wrested from the Turks? After passing a series of tests, Holmes and Russell learn their guides are engaged in a mission for His Majesty's Government, and disguise themselves as Bedouins--Russell as the beardless youth "Amir"--to join them in a stealthy reconnaissance through the dusty countryside.

A recent rash of murders seems unrelated to the growing tensions between Jew, Moslem, and Christian, yet Holmes is adamant that he must reconstruct the most recent one in the desert gully where it occurred. His singular findings will lead him and Russell through labyrinthine bazaars, verminous inns, cliff-hung monasteries--and into mortal danger. When her mentor's inquiries jeopardize his life, Russell fearlessly wields a pistol and even assays the arts of seduction to save him. Bruised and bloodied, the pair ascend to the jewellike city of Jerusalem, where they will at last meet their adversary, whose lust for savagery and power could reduce the city's most ancient and sacred place to rubble and ignite this tinderbox of a land....

Classically Holmesian yet enchantingly fresh, sinuously plotted, with colorful characters and a dazzling historic ambience, O Jerusalem sweeps readers ever onward in the thrill of the chase.


From the Hardcover edition.]]> 425 Laurie R. King 0553581058 Richard 5 4.13 1999 O Jerusalem (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #5)
author: Laurie R. King
name: Richard
average rating: 4.13
book published: 1999
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/06
date added: 2022/08/07
shelves:
review:
The entire series is excellent, and this book is no exception. Mary Russell is barely out of her apprenticeship at this point, and so does not have the experience or expertise she will demonstrate in later books - which shows excellent character development through the series. The transfer of Holmes' abilities to a different environment is also very well done.
]]> <![CDATA[Locked Rooms (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #8)]]> 93940 After departing Bombay by ship, Mary Russell and her husband Sherlock Holmes are en route to the bustling modern city of San Francisco. There, Mary will settle some legal affairs surrounding the inheritance of her family's old estate. But the closer they get to port, the more Mary finds herself prey to troubling dreams and irrational behavior-a point not lost on Holmes, much to Russell's annoyance.
In 1906, when Mary was six, San Francisco was devastated by an earthquake and a raging fire that reduced the city to rubble. For years, Mary has denied any memory of the catastrophe that for days turned the fabled streets into hell on earth. But Holmes suspects that some hidden trauma connected with the "unforgettable" catastrophe may be the real culprit responsible for Mary's memory lapse. And no sooner do they begin to familiarize themselves with the particulars of the Russell estate than it becomes apparent that whatever unpleasantness Mary has forgotten, it hasn't forgotten her. Why does her father's will forbid access to the house except in the presence of immediate family? Why did someone break in, then take nothing of any value? And why is Russell herself targeted for assassination?
The more questions they ask of Mary's past, the more people from that past turn out to have died violent, unexplained deaths. Now, with the aid of a hard-boiled young detective and crime writer named Hammett, Russell and Holmes find themselves embroiled in a mystery that leads them through the winding streets of Chinatown to the unspoken secrets of a parent's marriage and the tragic car "accident" that a fourteen-year-old Mary alone survived-an accident that may not have been an accident at all. What Russell is about to discover is that even a forgotten past never dies...and it can kill again.]]> 528 Laurie R. King 0553583417 Richard 5 4.26 2005 Locked Rooms (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #8)
author: Laurie R. King
name: Richard
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2005
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/02
date added: 2022/08/03
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[At Dawn We Slept: The Untold Story of Pearl Harbor]]> 1375114 873 Gordon W. Prange 0070506698 Richard 5 4.20 1981 At Dawn We Slept: The Untold Story of Pearl Harbor
author: Gordon W. Prange
name: Richard
average rating: 4.20
book published: 1981
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/03
date added: 2022/08/03
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #1)]]> 91661 384 Laurie R. King 0553381520 Richard 5
Highly recommended.]]> 4.06 1994 The Beekeeper's Apprentice (Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes, #1)
author: Laurie R. King
name: Richard
average rating: 4.06
book published: 1994
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/01
date added: 2022/08/01
shelves:
review:
This is the first Sherlock Holmes follow-on that I feel is worthy of the name. Without going into details, it is the master detective as he should have been all along, but with more insights into his personal character than in the original series. Notwithstanding the change in authorship and the years that have passed, it stays remarkably true to the original. If you enjoyed reading Arthur Conan Doyle you will enjoy reading Laurie King.

Highly recommended.
]]> <![CDATA[Dark Mirror (Star Trek: The Next Generation)]]> 337023 Stardate 44010.2: the twenty-fourth century. Humanity’s greatest dreams have become reality. Along with dozens of other sentient races, the people of Earth have formed the United Federation of Planets—a galactic civilization that governs much of the known universe for the good of all. Over the past two centuries, mankind has tamed its basest instincts, and reached the stars�

But suppose it hadn’t happened that way at all? Suppose instead humanity’s darkest impulses, its most savage, animalistic desires had triumphed? Suppose that the empire mankind made out in the stars was one ruled by terror, where only those willing to brutalize their own kind and their neighbors could survive?

One hundred years ago, four crewmembers of the U.S.S. Enterprise crossed the dimensional barrier and found just such an empire. A mirror image of their own universe, populated by nightmare duplicates of their shipmates. Barely able to escape with their lives, they returned thankful that the accident that brought them there could not be duplicated. Or so they thought.

But now the scientists of that empire have found a doorway into our universe. Thier plan: to destroy from within, to replace one of our starships with one of theirs. Their victims: the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC 1701-D.]]> 337 Diane Duane 0671793772 Richard 4
I haven't done the math, but I suspect the estimates of time vs. distance for vessels running at high warp speeds is off, and other parts of the physics seem questionable at best - but then, sometimes that how Star Trek rolled.]]> 3.86 1993 Dark Mirror (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
author: Diane Duane
name: Richard
average rating: 3.86
book published: 1993
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/27
date added: 2022/07/28
shelves:
review:
One of the better Star Trek TNG novels. It has a nice tie-in to TOS, and the characters act the way you would expect them to. Lots of little details that are hidden in the background, but make it seem real by their presence. The situation develops well - but not perfectly. Things go wrong. Unexpected things happen and mess up the characters' plans. Not only an excellent story line, but also well written.

I haven't done the math, but I suspect the estimates of time vs. distance for vessels running at high warp speeds is off, and other parts of the physics seem questionable at best - but then, sometimes that how Star Trek rolled.
]]> The Rose Code 53914938 The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Huntress and The Alice Network returns with another heart-stopping World War II story of three female code breakers at Bletchley Park and the spy they must root out after the war is over.

1940. As England prepares to fight the Nazis, three very different women answer the call to mysterious country estate Bletchley Park, where the best minds in Britain train to break German military codes. Vivacious debutante Osla is the girl who has everything—beauty, wealth, and the dashing Prince Philip of Greece sending her roses—but she burns to prove herself as more than a society girl, and puts her fluent German to use as a translator of decoded enemy secrets. Imperious self-made Mab, product of East-End London poverty, works the legendary code-breaking machines as she conceals old wounds and looks for a socially advantageous husband. Both Osla and Mab are quick to see the potential in local village spinster Beth, whose shyness conceals a brilliant facility with puzzles, and soon Beth spreads her wings as one of the Park’s few female cryptanalysts. But war, loss, and the impossible pressure of secrecy will tear the three apart.

1947. As the royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip whips post-war Britain into a fever, three friends-turned-enemies are reunited by a mysterious encrypted letter—the key to which lies buried in the long-ago betrayal that destroyed their friendship and left one of them confined to an asylum. A mysterious traitor has emerged from the shadows of their Bletchley Park past, and now Osla, Mab, and Beth must resurrect their old alliance and crack one last code together. But each petal they remove from the rose code brings danger—and their true enemy...]]> 624 Kate Quinn 0062943472 Richard 0 4.42 2021 The Rose Code
author: Kate Quinn
name: Richard
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/07/24
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Into the Fire (Vatta's Peace, #2)]]> 35151613 In this new military sci-fi thriller from the author of Cold Welcome, space fleet commander Kylara Vatta uncovers deadly secrets on her latest mission--shedding light on her own family's past.

As Admiral Kylara Vatta learned after she and a shipfull of strangers were marooned on an inhospitable arctic island, the secrets she and her makeshift crew uncovered were ones someone was ready to kill to keep hidden. Now, the existence of the mysterious arctic base has been uncovered, but much of the organization behind it still lurks in the shadows. And it is up to the intrepid Ky to force the perpetrators into the light, and finally uncover decades worth of secrets--some of which lie at the very heart of her biggest family tragedy.]]> 462 Elizabeth Moon 1101887346 Richard 4 3.94 2018 Into the Fire (Vatta's Peace, #2)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/14
date added: 2022/07/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Cold Welcome (Vatta's Peace, #1)]]> 30312456
Summoned to the home planet of her family’s business empire, space-fleet commander Kylara Vatta is told to expect a hero’s welcome. But instead she is thrown into danger unlike any other she has faced and finds herself isolated, unable to communicate with the outside world, commanding a motley group of unfamiliar troops, and struggling day by day to survive in a deadly environment with sabotaged gear. Only her undeniable talent for command can give her ragtag band a fighting chance.

Yet even as Ky leads her team from one crisis to another, her family and friends refuse to give up hope, endeavoring to mount a rescue from halfway around the planet—a task that is complicated as Ky and her supporters find secrets others will kill to protect: a conspiracy infecting both government and military that threatens not only her own group’s survival but her entire home planet.]]> 449 Elizabeth Moon 0356506290 Richard 4 3.87 2017 Cold Welcome (Vatta's Peace, #1)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/13
date added: 2022/07/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Limits of Power (Paladin's Legacy, #4)]]> 15831197
And with one very determined traitor at work, intent on undoing any effort at peace no matter how many lives it costs, the future hangs in the balance. It is only the dedication of a few resolute heroes who can turn the tides... if they can survive.]]> 490 Elizabeth Moon 0356501272 Richard 4 4.11 2013 Limits of Power (Paladin's Legacy, #4)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/13
date added: 2022/07/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Victory Conditions (Vatta's War, #5)]]> 1305912
Ky has a loyal taskforce, but the enemy have three times the ships and the firepower to match. She must offset these advantages with her knowledge of military strategy and her ace: superior ansible technology, facilitating fast and accurate in-space intelligence.

The alternative to victory is unthinkable - devastation of interplanetary trading networks on a galaxy-wide scale - and the end of a way of life.]]> 416 Elizabeth Moon 0345491610 Richard 4 4.07 2008 Victory Conditions (Vatta's War, #5)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/11
date added: 2022/07/12
shelves:
review:
Other than some minor consistency issues, a great finale to the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Command Decision (Vatta's War, #4)]]> 96276
After orchestrating a galaxy-wide failure of the communications network owned and maintained by the powerful ISC corporation, Turek and his marauders strike swiftly and without mercy. First they shatter Vatta Transport. Then they overrun entire star systems, growing stronger and bolder. No one is safe from the pirate fleet. But while they continue to move forward with their diabolical plan, they have made two critical mistakes.

Their first mistake was killing Kylara Vatta's family.
Their second mistake was leaving her alive.
Now Kylara is going to make them pay.

But with a fleet consisting of only three ships including her flagship, the Vanguard, a souped-up merchant cruiser Kylara needs allies, and fast. Because even though she possesses the same coveted communication technology as the enemy, she has nowhere near their numbers or firepower.

Meanwhile, as Kylara's cousin Stella tries to bring together the shattered pieces of the family trading empire, new treachery is unfolding at ISC headquarters, where undercover agent Rafael Dunbarger, estranged son of the corporation's CEO, is trying to learn why the damaged network is not being repaired. What he discovers will send shock waves across the galaxy and crashing into Kylara's newly christened Space Defense Force at the worst possible moment.]]> 384 Elizabeth Moon 0345491599 Richard 4 4.09 2007 Command Decision (Vatta's War, #4)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/11
date added: 2022/07/12
shelves:
review:
A good continuation of the series. The characters continue to develop well - and still make mistakes. There are some small consistency problems that bother me, but that's my pet peeve not yours.
]]> <![CDATA[Engaging the Enemy (Vatta's War, #3)]]> 96277 405 Elizabeth Moon 0345447573 Richard 4
Unfortunately there are still inconsistencies across the series, and these are a pet-peeve of mine.]]> 4.06 2006 Engaging the Enemy (Vatta's War, #3)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/08
date added: 2022/07/09
shelves:
review:
I enjoy this series a lot. It's an engaging read with various interrelated sub-plots. It's not as detailed as some other series I read, but it also brings realism into play (for example, even though the heroine is very smart and talented, she lacks experience and makes mistakes accordingly).

Unfortunately there are still inconsistencies across the series, and these are a pet-peeve of mine.
]]> <![CDATA[Marque and Reprisal (Vatta's War, #2)]]> 96279 Trading in Danger, is back in business–the kind that’s anything but usual–in the new military science fiction adventure by ace action storyteller Elizabeth Moon.

The exciting military career she hoped for never got off the ground–but Ky Vatta ended up seeing plenty of combat when she took the helm of one of the commercial transport vessels in her family’s fleet . . . and steered it into a full-blown war. Now the lessons she learned in that trial by fire are about to pay off: because this time, the war has come to her. To be exact, someone unknown has launched a full-throttle offensive against Vatta Transport Ltd., Ky’s father’s interstellar shipping empire. In short order, most of Ky’s family is killed, and subsequent attacks sever vital lines of communication, leaving Ky fighting, in every sense, to survive.

Determined to identify the ruthless mystery enemy and avenge her family’s name, Ky needs not only firepower but information. And she gets both in spades–from the band of stranded mercenaries she hooks up with, from her black-sheep cousin, Stella, who’s been leading a secret life, and from Stella’s roguish ex-lover, Rafe. Together they struggle to penetrate the tangled web of political intrigue that’s wreaking havoc within InterStellar Communications, whose effective operation their own livelihoods–and perhaps lives–depend on.

But the infighting proves to be infectious, and it isn’t long before Ky’s hired military muscle are turning their suspicions on the enigmatic Rafe, whose wealth of knowledge about ISC’s clashing factions and startling new technologies has begun to make him smell like a rat . . . or a mole. With swift, violent destruction a very real possibility, the last thing Ky needs is a crew divided against itself–and she’s prepared to take whatever measures are necessary to ensure that Vatta stays in business, as well as in one piece.

What she’s not prepared for is the shocking truth behind the terror� and a confrontation with murderous treachery from a source as unexpected as it is unrelenting.


From the Hardcover edition.]]> 387 Elizabeth Moon 034544759X Richard 4
There are inconsistencies in how things work from time to time, and those bother me. If funds are frozen across the universe, how can some turn out to be fine?

Overall a good read and a good series.]]> 4.06 2004 Marque and Reprisal (Vatta's War, #2)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2004
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/07
date added: 2022/07/07
shelves:
review:
Rounded up from 3.5. I like the series - the characters are well-developed (but with flaws) whose youth sometimes come back to haunt them in realistic ways. They learn and progress - and make mistakes while doing so. There is the occasional "miracle" that pulls them out of difficult situations, but those are rare overall.

There are inconsistencies in how things work from time to time, and those bother me. If funds are frozen across the universe, how can some turn out to be fine?

Overall a good read and a good series.
]]> <![CDATA[A Dark and Dirty War (Siobhan Dunmoore Book 7)]]> 58555377 The Fleet’s quick return to a mundane peacetime footing left them unmoored and incapable of fully readapting after years engulfed in an existential struggle. Meanwhile, the memories of all those hard-won lessons, paid for with humanity’s dearest blood, are fading as careerists, bureaucrats, and politicians in uniform replace the leaders who brought about the war’s end.

Yet an increasing number of senior officers understand true peace is illusory. Without an external threat to unify them as a species, humans have resumed their favorite activity � fighting each other in dark and dirty wars for power, profit, or glory. And this despite the risk of eroding the Commonwealth’s delicate social and political balance and triggering violent unrest. Ironically, those best suited for stopping nasty, albeit minor conflicts before they escalate, are the very veterans on which the Fleet turned its back.

Will Siobhan Dunmoore and her comrades find a new role in halting what could become fatal to human unity, or will they fade away, unwanted, while the Commonwealth begins a long slide into civil discord?]]> 395 Eric Thomson 1989314414 Richard 3
I realize that the goal was to tie up all the loose ends and leave the reader feeling like they can say goodbye to the characters without feeling bad about their circumstances, but this is a little too tidy.]]> 4.49 A Dark and Dirty War (Siobhan Dunmoore Book 7)
author: Eric Thomson
name: Richard
average rating: 4.49
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2022/07/04
date added: 2022/07/06
shelves:
review:
I was a little disappointed in this book. I've read the rest of the series, and the other books are outstanding. This one starts out well - but then degenerates as "miracles" occur to pull the characters out of their predicament (at least somewhat self-inflicted, though the author implies that it isn't really their fault). Amazing things happen to put the heroine back in the driver's seat, running rogue in her own inimitable way.

I realize that the goal was to tie up all the loose ends and leave the reader feeling like they can say goodbye to the characters without feeling bad about their circumstances, but this is a little too tidy.
]]> <![CDATA[Trading in Danger (Vatta's War, #1)]]> 284658
Expelled from the Academy in disgrace—and returning home to her humiliated family, a storm of high-profile media coverage, and the gaping void of her own future—Ky is ready to face the inevitable onslaught of anger, disappointment, even pity. But soon after opportunity's door slams shut, Ky finds herself with a ticket to ride—and a shot at redemption—as captain of a Vatta Transport ship.

It's a simple assignment: escorting one of the Vatta fleet's oldest ships on its final voyage . . . to the scrapyard. But keeping it simple has never been Ky's style. And even though her father has provided a crew of seasoned veterans to baby-sit the fledgling captain on her maiden milk run, they can't stop Ky from turning the routine mission into a risky venture—in the name of turning a profit for Vatta Transport, of course.

By snapping up a lucrative delivery contract defaulted on by a rival company, and using part of the proceeds to upgrade her condemned vehicle, Ky aims to prove she's got more going for her than just her family's famous name. But business will soon have to take a backseat to bravery, when Ky's change of plans sails her and the crew straight into the middle of a colonial war. For all her commercial savvy, it's her military training and born-soldier's instincts that Ky will need to call on in the face of deadly combat, dangerous mercenaries, and violent mutiny. . . .]]> 357 Elizabeth Moon 0345447611 Richard 4 3.97 2003 Trading in Danger (Vatta's War, #1)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/06
date added: 2022/07/06
shelves:
review:
The book is well-written, the characters are all believable and stay in character throughout the book. There are smart ones and stupid ones, and the bad guys are intelligent. Problems arise that have no simple solution, and their resolution does not rely on a miracle of some sort. The pace of the book keeps you going, because while you're sure things are going to work out you really want to find out how they're going to get out of their situation in one piece.
]]> <![CDATA[When the Guns Roar (Siobhan Dunmoore Book 6)]]> 52281430 Captain Siobhan Dunmoore no longer enjoys the freedom to fight the Shrehari Empire on her own terms aboard the Q-ship Iolanthe. Special Operations Command has assigned her to Task Force Luckner, whose mission is replicating Iolanthe’s success on a larger scale. Unfortunately, neither her new superior, Rear Admiral Kell Petras, nor any other captain in the task force understands successful commerce raiding requires a different mindset. Instead of sheepdogs, they must become wolves in sheep’s clothing, and Dunmoore is just the right officer to teach them. Yet Petras and his flag captain are not interested.

But when an unauthorized raid on a Shrehari forward operations base produces surprising results, Dunmoore triggers a cascade of events which could forever change the course of the war. As the old saying goes, fortune favors the bold. Will Dunmoore prove once again that she and Iolanthe’s crew are the most daring of them all?

]]> 618 Eric Thomson 1989314171 Richard 4 4.45 When the Guns Roar (Siobhan Dunmoore Book 6)
author: Eric Thomson
name: Richard
average rating: 4.45
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/02
date added: 2022/07/02
shelves:
review:
Another excellent installment in the series. The book is very well written. It expresses very well the feelings that come to a commanding officer and her subordinates when times change. I truly appreciated a lot of the traditions expressed in this book.
]]> <![CDATA[Echoes of Betrayal (Paladin's Legacy, #3)]]> 11476589
All is not well in the Eight Kingdoms. In Lyonya, King Kieri is about to celebrate marriage to his beloved, the half-elf Arian. But uncanny whispers from the spirits of his ancestors continue to warn of treachery and murder. A finger of suspicion has been pointed toward his grandmother, the queen of the Ladysforest elves, and that suspicion has only intensified with time and the Lady’s inexplicable behavior. Clearly, she is hiding something. But what? And why?

Meanwhile, in Tsaia, the young king Mikeli must grapple with unrest among his own nobility over his controversial decision to grant the title and estates of a traitorous magelord to a Verrakaien who not only possesses the forbidden magic but is a woman besides: Dorrin, once one of Kieri’s most trusted captains. When renegade Verrakaien attack two of Dorrin’s squires, suspicion and prejudice combine to place Dorrin’s life at risk—and the king’s claim to the throne in peril.

But even greater danger is looming. The wild offspring of a dragon are on the loose, sowing death and destruction and upsetting the ancient balance of power between dragonkind, humans, elves, and gnomes. A collision seems inevitable. Yet when it comes, it will be utterly unexpected—and all the more devastating for it.]]> 451 Elizabeth Moon 0345508769 Richard 4 4.13 2012 Echoes of Betrayal (Paladin's Legacy, #3)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/02
date added: 2022/07/02
shelves:
review:
I love this series. There are occasional inconsistencies (which bother me), but the world is remarkably consistent and the characters (well-developed characters) fit quite nicely in it. There is enough unknown backstory (what we know of it is also consistent) to lend an air of mystery and keep you reading.
]]> Without Mercy 42182449 What is the value of one life in an interstellar war that has already claimed millions? And if that single life doesn't matter, are any others worth saving?

A distress signal draws Siobhan Dunmoore's Q-ship Iolanthe, a battlecruiser disguised as a bulk freighter, away from her devastatingly successful hunt through Shrehari occupied space and plunges Dunmoore into a dark, merciless universe of competing government organizations, undercover warfare, and organized crime on a galactic scale. Along the way, she crosses paths with an old foe and an uncertain ally as she and her crew race against time and determined opposition to rescue innocent civilians condemned merely because they were in the wrong place at the wrong moment. Powerful forces within the Commonwealth would call a handful of lives collateral damage in humanity's existential struggle against the Shrehari Empire. But Dunmoore won't accept that they aren't worth saving even if it puts her at cross-purposes with her new commanding officer and the Commonwealth's fearsome security bureau.

After all, her oath to serve and defend has no limitations and no expiry date. ]]> 400 Eric Thomson 1989314007 Richard 4 Missile stocks run low, Both the good guys and the bad guys make mistakes (and have moments of brilliance), Damage happens and has to be taken into account, People interact (sometimes well, sometimes not so well).

The writing is also quite good - I find it difficult to put the book down because I'm not sure what's going to happen; things could (and have) gone either way.

The biggest problem is with the amount of leeway given to Capt. Dunmoore; I'm having a hard time believing that, given her history (and ability to alienate senior officers - though she is learning) her commanders and superiors would let things go.]]> 4.30 Without Mercy
author: Eric Thomson
name: Richard
average rating: 4.30
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/01
date added: 2022/07/02
shelves:
review:
I really like this series. Aside from minor inconsistencies, I appreciate the realities in the books:
Missile stocks run low, Both the good guys and the bad guys make mistakes (and have moments of brilliance), Damage happens and has to be taken into account, People interact (sometimes well, sometimes not so well).

The writing is also quite good - I find it difficult to put the book down because I'm not sure what's going to happen; things could (and have) gone either way.

The biggest problem is with the amount of leeway given to Capt. Dunmoore; I'm having a hard time believing that, given her history (and ability to alienate senior officers - though she is learning) her commanders and superiors would let things go.
]]> <![CDATA[As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride]]> 21412202 Storm the castle once more

Standing on the stage for the twenty-fifth anniversary of The Princess Bride, I felt an almost overwhelming sense of gratitude and nostalgia. It was a remarkable night and it brought back vivid memories of being part of what appears to have become a cult classic film about pirates and princesses, giants and jesters, cliffs of insanity, and of course rodents of unusual size.

It truly was as fun to make the movie as it is to watch it, from getting to work on William Goldman's brilliant screenplay to being directed by the inimitable Rob Reiner. It is not an exaggeration to say that most days on set were exhilarating, from wrestling André the Giant, to the impossibility of playing mostly dead with Billy Crystal cracking jokes above me, to choreographing the Greatest Sword Fight in Modern Times with Mandy Patinkin, to being part of the Kiss That Left All the Others Behind with Robin Wright.

In this book I've gathered many more behind-the-scenes stories and hopefully answers to many of the questions we've all received over the years from fans. Additionally, Robin, Billy, Rob, and Mandy, as well as Christopher Guest, Wallace Shawn, Fred Savage, Chris Sarandon, Carol Kane, Norman Lear, and William Goldman graciously share their own memories and stories from making this treasured film.

If you'd like to know a little more about the making of The Princess Bride as seen through the eyes of a young actor who got much more than he bargained for, along with the rest of this brilliant cast, then all I can say is...as you wish.]]> 259 Cary Elwes 1476764026 Richard 5 4.16 2014 As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride
author: Cary Elwes
name: Richard
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2022/06/27
date added: 2022/06/29
shelves:
review:
I loved this book - of course, I also loved the movie (seldom - if ever - has a movie incorporated so many quotable one-liners that are appropriate to so many situations). The description of how the movie came to be, the sheer joy of those involved in its production, anecdotes from various members of the cast, it's all here. If you enjoyed the movie, you'll like this book.
]]> The Bletchley Women 60434549 From debutante to farmer’s daughter all roads lead to Bletchley�

In a different world, Evie Milton would have accepted her fate, married an aristocrat, and become the doyenne of one of England’s finest estates, just like her mother.

In a different world, Rose Wiley would have married her fiancé, David, established a modest homestead, and brought up a brood of babies, just like her mother.

But this isn’t a different world and these women are not their mothers. Rose dreams of a life filled with more than family and duty to her husband � a life of purpose � and Evie dreams of a life far away from her rarefied existence. Now, as they perform vital work at Bletchley Park decoding intercepted Luftwaffe messages, their role in turning the tide of war in the Allies favour shows Evie and Rose they don’t have to settle for the life once laid out before them.]]> 384 Patricia Adrian 000852601X Richard 4
On the other hand, a number of relationships seemed a little strained, as if created solely for some other plot requirement. The minor characters are very minor - they could have had more important roles (while still remaining minor characters) and, in some cases, step up for a moment or two of importance before sliding back into obscurity. Both of the major characters suffers from one of my pet peeves - put the right man in front of them and their brains (which are stunning the rest of the time) turn to mush.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am hoping for a sequel.

]]> 3.78 2022 The Bletchley Women
author: Patricia Adrian
name: Richard
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/29
date added: 2022/06/29
shelves:
review:
More like 4.5 stars. The plot is excellent, the main characters well-developed (though I disagree on how that development should have gone). The story line is quite good and in keeping with what I know about the reality of the time. I enjoyed reading it. Swapping back and forth between the major characters and their points of view was well done. There were plot twists that seemed completely appropriate and in keeping with the characters involved.

On the other hand, a number of relationships seemed a little strained, as if created solely for some other plot requirement. The minor characters are very minor - they could have had more important roles (while still remaining minor characters) and, in some cases, step up for a moment or two of importance before sliding back into obscurity. Both of the major characters suffers from one of my pet peeves - put the right man in front of them and their brains (which are stunning the rest of the time) turn to mush.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am hoping for a sequel.


]]> <![CDATA[Starship's Mage: Omnibus (Starship's Mage, #1)]]> 23848809 432 Glynn Stewart Richard 4
Still, a good read at the price I paid (the book was on sale); had I paid full price I don't know how I would have felt about it.]]> 4.25 2014 Starship's Mage: Omnibus (Starship's Mage, #1)
author: Glynn Stewart
name: Richard
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/23
date added: 2022/06/24
shelves:
review:
The premise is good, the way everyone gets into trouble is good, the stories of how they get out are good. Character development - not so good (very little, if any). There is more... I'm not sure what to call it. Say that the circumstances are such that anyone who was likely to get into this much trouble probably wouldn't be is such good shape (financially and in business) as this group.

Still, a good read at the price I paid (the book was on sale); had I paid full price I don't know how I would have felt about it.
]]> <![CDATA[B is for Burglar (Kinsey Millhone, #2)]]> 64865
Kinsey's hunch proves true when she begins her inquiries into Elaine's whereabouts and discovers that the attractive widow was last seen in a flashy lynx coat boarding a plane for Boca Raton. But the more Kinsey searches for Elaine the more questions she encounters. Is Elaine's disappearance tied in to the brutal murder several months ago of one of her bridge partners? And what happened to Elaine's Persian cat who seems to have also vanished?

Things take a turn for the worse when a stranger vandalizes the home of one of Elaine's neighbors and another neighbor turns up murdered. With her reputation and career on the line, Kinsey risks all to find a missing woman and a killer who's waiting in the shadows to strike again…]]> 320 Sue Grafton 0312939000 Richard 4
I'll be interested to see what the next book has to offer.]]> 3.86 1985 B is for Burglar (Kinsey Millhone, #2)
author: Sue Grafton
name: Richard
average rating: 3.86
book published: 1985
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/22
date added: 2022/06/22
shelves:
review:
A very twisty plot - I thought I had it figured out, but turned out to be completely and totally wrong. The character development continues to be pretty good (though the heroine still falls for someone she barely met - you would think she would have learned after the last book). I like the fact that the characters have personal lives, that the environment in which they were raised influences their daily life, and that none of them are perfect.

I'll be interested to see what the next book has to offer.
]]> Rubbernecker 16071656
Life is already strange enough for Patrick - being a medical student with Asperger's Syndrome doesn't come without its challenges. And that's before he is faced with solving a possible murder, especially when no one believes a crime has even taken place. Now he must stay out of danger long enough to unravel the mystery. But as Patrick learns one truth from a dead man, he discovers there have been many other lies closer to home.]]> 313 Belinda Bauer 0593066928 Richard 2
Unless you're more interested in the story of someone with Asperger's than in a murder mystery, I do not recommend this book.]]> 4.06 2013 Rubbernecker
author: Belinda Bauer
name: Richard
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2013
rating: 2
read at: 2022/06/21
date added: 2022/06/21
shelves:
review:
The main character was well developed and consistent throughout the book; I liked him. There was next to no character development anywhere else. The plot - well, which one? There are at least four, and while the murder is supposed to be the main one, it isn't all that much more central to the book than any of the others. The means of the murder, while interesting, would not have left the evidence behind that allows for the case to be solved. The murderer - falls completely apart at the end, but not in a way consistent with the behavior of those who murder for the motive imputed.

Unless you're more interested in the story of someone with Asperger's than in a murder mystery, I do not recommend this book.
]]> <![CDATA[Kings of the North (Paladin's Legacy, #2)]]> 8559769
Peace and order have been restored to the kingdoms of Tsaia and Lyonya, thanks to the crowning of two Mikeli of Tsaia and, in Lyonya, Kieri Phelan, a mercenary captain whose royal blood and half-elven heritage are resented by elves and humans alike.

On the surface, all is hope and promise. But underneath, trouble is brewing. Mikeli cannot sit safely on his throne as long as remnants of the evil Verrakaien magelords are at large. Kieri is being hounded to marry and provide the kingdom with an heir—but that is the least of his concerns. A strange rift has developed between him and his grandmother and co-ruler, the immortal elven queen known as the Lady. More problematic is the ex-pirate Alured, who schemes to seize Kieri’s throne for himself—and Mikeli’s, too, while he’s at it. Meanwhile, to the north, the aggressive kingdom of Pargun seems poised to invade.

Now, as war threatens to erupt from without and within, the two kings are dangerously divided. Old alliances and the bonds of friendship are about to be tested as never before. And a shocking discovery will change everything.]]> 478 Elizabeth Moon 0345508750 Richard 5 4.13 2011 Kings of the North (Paladin's Legacy, #2)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at: 2022/06/21
date added: 2022/06/21
shelves:
review:
Fantasy the way it should be. Logical, well-told, strong characters (but who make mistakes every now and again), treachery, betrayal, loyalty, and honor. All good!
]]> <![CDATA[Oath of Fealty (Paladin's Legacy, #1)]]> 6579183
Thanks to Paks’s courage and sacrifice, the long-vanished heir to the half-elven kingdom of Lyonya has been revealed as Kieri Phelan, a formidable mercenary captain who earned a title and enemies in the neighboring kingdom of Tsaia. Now, as Kieri ascends a throne he never sought, he must come to terms with his own half-elven heritage while protecting his new kingdom from his old enemies and those he has not yet discovered.

Meanwhile, in Tsaia, Prince Mikeli prepares for his own coronation. But when an assassination attempt nearly succeeds, Mikeli suddenly faces the threat of a coup. Acting swiftly, Mikeli strikes at the powerful family behind the attack: the Verrakaien, magelords possessing ancient sorcery, steeped in death and evil. Mikeli’s survival and that of Tsaia depend on the only Verrakai whose magery is not tainted with innocent blood.

Two kings stand at a pivotal point in the history of their worlds. For dark forces are gathering against them, knit in a secret conspiracy more sinister and far more ancient than they can imagine. And even Paks may find her gods-given magic and peerless fighting skills stretched to the limit and beyond.
]]> 496 Elizabeth Moon 0345508742 Richard 5 4.09 2010 Oath of Fealty (Paladin's Legacy, #1)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2010
rating: 5
read at: 2022/06/19
date added: 2022/06/19
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[When We Do Harm: A Doctor Confronts Medical Error]]> 52190034 When We Do Harm, practicing physician and acclaimed author Danielle Ofri places the issues of medical error and patient safety front and center in our national healthcare conversation.

Drawing on current research, professional experience, and extensive interviews with nurses, physicians, administrators, researchers, patients, and families, Dr. Ofri explores the diagnostic, systemic, and cognitive causes of medical error. She advocates for strategic use of concrete safety interventions such as checklists and improvements to the electronic medical record, but focuses on the full-scale cultural and cognitive shifts required to make a meaningful dent in medical error. Woven throughout the book are the powerfully human stories that Dr. Ofri is renowned for. The errors she dissects range from the hardly noticeable missteps to the harrowing medical cataclysms.]]> 304 Danielle Ofri 0807037885 Richard 5
I was very impressed by the impartial evaluations and assessments of errors. "Yes, this was an error - but here's how it happened, and it could have happened to anyone." Another good point comes in the discussion of how a number of errors are not problems because they have no affect on patient care (the diagnosis was wrong, but the treatment for both the correct and incorrect diagnoses is the same) - but that they should be considered "near misses" and so investigated.

One thing I enjoyed is reading about how the medical system appears from the family's side of things, especially when the author's daughter was in the system and the author had to deal with the situation from the other side, so to speak.

If you're looking for a well-reasoned and thought out explanation of how errors can occur, along with some very thought-provoking ideas on how the system can be improved, this book is for you. If you're looking for a book to justify your belief that all medical errors are preventable and should be dealt with severely, or if you're looking for a book to show that errors made by medical professionals are all justifiable, this book is not for you.]]> 4.18 2020 When We Do Harm: A Doctor Confronts Medical Error
author: Danielle Ofri
name: Richard
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/06/14
date added: 2022/06/15
shelves:
review:
This is one of the best books I've read on problems and how to solve them. It is an even-handed discussion of medical errors and some of the causes. Unlike a lot of books/articles of this type, no simple solution is proposed - because there are no simple solutions. Instead, there is an examination of possible ways in which the system could be improved to catch mistakes before they affect a patient and how those possible solutions can introduce other problems into the system.

I was very impressed by the impartial evaluations and assessments of errors. "Yes, this was an error - but here's how it happened, and it could have happened to anyone." Another good point comes in the discussion of how a number of errors are not problems because they have no affect on patient care (the diagnosis was wrong, but the treatment for both the correct and incorrect diagnoses is the same) - but that they should be considered "near misses" and so investigated.

One thing I enjoyed is reading about how the medical system appears from the family's side of things, especially when the author's daughter was in the system and the author had to deal with the situation from the other side, so to speak.

If you're looking for a well-reasoned and thought out explanation of how errors can occur, along with some very thought-provoking ideas on how the system can be improved, this book is for you. If you're looking for a book to justify your belief that all medical errors are preventable and should be dealt with severely, or if you're looking for a book to show that errors made by medical professionals are all justifiable, this book is not for you.
]]> <![CDATA[Oath of Gold (The Deed of Paksenarrion, #3)]]> 17316
Oath of Gold is the climactic final volume of the epic that Judith Tarr calls "the first work of high heroic fantasy I've seen that has taken the work of Tolkien, assimilated it totally and deeply and absolutely, and produced something altogether new and yet incontestably based on the master... [Moon's] military knowledge is impressive, her picture of life in a mercenary company most convincing. I'm deeply impressed."]]> 501 Elizabeth Moon 0671697986 Richard 5
The story line is worthy of a good read; there is just so much that appeals to you. The underdog overcoming their fear. Help from unexpected places (but nothing unbelievable). Those who have made mistakes recognizing them and trying to fix them - and becoming better in the process. Good suffers at the hand of evil, but continues on - because it's the right thing to do.

Start with Sheepfarmer's Daughter, but read the series.]]> 4.26 1989 Oath of Gold (The Deed of Paksenarrion, #3)
author: Elizabeth Moon
name: Richard
average rating: 4.26
book published: 1989
rating: 5
read at: 2022/06/13
date added: 2022/06/14
shelves:
review:
A re-read; this is the third in the series (there are ten total), and well worth reading. The setting could almost be Middle-earth, but long, long after the final fall of Sauron. Humans are dominant, but there are still elves and dwarves (though both have, for the most part, withdrawn from society. There is evil, and it shows itself just as it does today - for the most part in simple ways that lead to larger and larger errors. Everyone makes mistakes - but they also work to overcome them.

The story line is worthy of a good read; there is just so much that appeals to you. The underdog overcoming their fear. Help from unexpected places (but nothing unbelievable). Those who have made mistakes recognizing them and trying to fix them - and becoming better in the process. Good suffers at the hand of evil, but continues on - because it's the right thing to do.

Start with Sheepfarmer's Daughter, but read the series.
]]> <![CDATA[A Is for Alibi (Kinsey Millhone #1)]]> 64863
A IS FOR ACCUSED. That's why she draws desperate clients like Nikki Fife. Eight years ago, she was convicted of killing her philandering husband. Now she's out on parole and needs Kinsey's help to find the real killer. But after all this time, clearing Nikki's bad name won't be easy.

A IS FOR ALIBI. If there's one thing that makes Kinsey Millhone feel alive, it's playing on the edge. When her investigation turns up a second corpse, more suspects, and a new reason to kill, Kinsey discovers that the edge is closer--and sharper--than she imagined.]]> 308 Sue Grafton 0312938993 Richard 3
What bothered me was that, once again (and I do realize the book was written in 1982 and that times were different then) the female lead can't help falling for someone she knows she should be leaving alone - at least until the case is over. That plot device really bothers me. The sex is also gratuitously explicit; whether it's important to the plot or not, you don't have to be graphic about it. If neither of those things bothers you the way they bother me, probably 4 - 4.5 stars.]]> 3.87 1982 A Is for Alibi (Kinsey Millhone #1)
author: Sue Grafton
name: Richard
average rating: 3.87
book published: 1982
rating: 3
read at: 2022/06/10
date added: 2022/06/10
shelves:
review:
The plot is good (and twisty, which I like). The characters are consistent throughout (no magical bursts of inspiration or random revealing of interesting information). The end isn't even obvious (I had some of it figured out, but not all of it, nor the motive).

What bothered me was that, once again (and I do realize the book was written in 1982 and that times were different then) the female lead can't help falling for someone she knows she should be leaving alone - at least until the case is over. That plot device really bothers me. The sex is also gratuitously explicit; whether it's important to the plot or not, you don't have to be graphic about it. If neither of those things bothers you the way they bother me, probably 4 - 4.5 stars.
]]> Brave Men 51945436 “Brave Men is a collection of Pyle’s newspaper columns from 1943 and 1944, in which he details the fighting in Europe primarily from the perspective of the common U.S. G.I. This angle of reporting brought the front-line war back to the families of those serving in the armed forces and endeared Pyle to the troops. . .”—Kirkus Reviews.]]> 533 Ernie Pyle Richard 5 5.00 1944 Brave Men
author: Ernie Pyle
name: Richard
average rating: 5.00
book published: 1944
rating: 5
read at: 2020/02/13
date added: 2022/06/08
shelves:
review:
Another truly stupendous book. I love reading the stories of the men when they are not actively engaged in combat. Tying it together with what I know of the campaigns makes it even more real than just reading about the campaigns themselves and how they were executed. Those books focus on the courage and bravery of the men and the details of how the carried out their missions. These books focus on what the men did when they were not actively engaged in combat, rounding out the complete picture. Well worth the read, especially the last chapter where he waxes philosophical.
]]> <![CDATA[Buried Deep (Detective Megan Thomas, #1)]]> 50355483 Megan has to climb round and step across the body to get a proper view. What’s left is like a chalk white mask in the rough shape of a face. The innocence is still there, and a hint of the cheekiness. But perhaps she is imagining that.

Detective Megan Thomas spent years undercover. It cost her marriage and her peace of mind, but she got the job done. Now she has to decide if she can go back to her life before, to a regular crime unit alongside other cops who have no idea about the fear that haunts her dreams. She’s still running from her memories. She doesn’t know how to stop.

Moving to Devon was meant to be a fresh start. She’s staying with her sister and swimming in the sea daily, battling the tides and letting the waves wash her past away. But she can’t outrun everything. First, the discovery of a body in a claustrophobic crime scene triggers a panic attack. And then, when she gets too emotionally involved in an attack on a local teenager, her boss pulls her off the case entirely.

When a body is found on the stretch of beach where she swims every day, Megan remembers why she joined the force, and what she’s fighting for� But how can she find justice for others, when she’s no longer sure of herself?

A completely gripping new series from bestselling author Susan Wilkins, introducing the tough and determined Detective Megan Thomas.]]> 325 Susan Wilkins 183888517X Richard 4
The relationships between the characters are good - but strained, just like normal ones. The character development is excellent; the characters have emotions and feelings, just like real people. The character types line up very well - new DCs, experienced, competent senior officers who want to be successful but aren't as confident in themselves as everyone thinks they are, it's like real life and I appreciate that. The fact that the characters are consistent is also a strong plus.

I'm looking forward to the next book, because I think this series is going places.

*** Spoiler alert ***
The only troubling item here is the fact that both of the main mysteries in the book tie together neatly at the end. While I like things to be nice and tidy, this is just too coincidental and stresses my "willing suspension of disbelief."]]> 4.27 2020 Buried Deep (Detective Megan Thomas, #1)
author: Susan Wilkins
name: Richard
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/06
date added: 2022/06/06
shelves:
review:
The fact that the main character has issues is handled better than pretty much any other main character with issues that I've read in recent memory, and information about her problem leaks out quickly enough to hold your interest, but not so fast that there isn't anything left to discuss.

The relationships between the characters are good - but strained, just like normal ones. The character development is excellent; the characters have emotions and feelings, just like real people. The character types line up very well - new DCs, experienced, competent senior officers who want to be successful but aren't as confident in themselves as everyone thinks they are, it's like real life and I appreciate that. The fact that the characters are consistent is also a strong plus.

I'm looking forward to the next book, because I think this series is going places.

*** Spoiler alert ***
The only troubling item here is the fact that both of the main mysteries in the book tie together neatly at the end. While I like things to be nice and tidy, this is just too coincidental and stresses my "willing suspension of disbelief."
]]> <![CDATA[Marching Orders: The Untold Story of How the American Breaking of the Japanese Secret Codes Led to the Defeat of Nazi Germany and Japan]]> 25864163 The “extraordinarily informed� account of how US cryptographers broke Japan’s Purple cipher to change the course of World War II (Kirkus Reviews, starred review).Marching Orders tells the story of how the American military’s breaking of the Japanese diplomatic Purple codes during World War II led to the defeat of Nazi Germany and hastened the end of the devastating conflict. With unprecedented access to over one million pages of US Army documents and thousands of pages of top-secret messages dispatched to Tokyo from the Japanese embassy in Berlin, author Bruce Lee offers a series of fascinating revelations about pivotal moments in the war. Challenging conventional wisdom, Marching Orders demonstrates how an American invasion of Japan would have resulted in massive casualties for both forces. Lee presents a thrilling day-by-day chronicle of the difficult choices faced by the American military brain trust and how, aware of Japan’s adamant refusal to surrender, the United States made the fateful decision to drop nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Hailed as “one of the most important books ever published on World War II� by Robert T. Crowley, an intelligence officer who later became a senior executive at the CIA, Marching Orders unveils the untold stories behind some of the Second World War’s most critical events, bringing them to vivid life. With this book, “many of the mysteries that have eluded historians since the end of the war are much the Pearl Harbor fiasco, D-Day, why the Americans let the Russians capture Berlin, and why the decision to drop the atomic bomb was made. This is the most significant publication about World War II since the recent series of books on the Ultra revelations� (Library Journal). It’s a story that, as historian Robin W. Winks said, “no one with the slightest interest in World War II or in the origins of the Cold War can afford to ignore.� ]]> 890 Bruce Lee Richard 4
The bad news is that the author comes across as fairly full of himself. References to other books seem to always be accompanied by comments like "Which I commissioned." "Which I edited." and the like. I didn't go through the source material looking for it, but it seemed like this constituted a lot of his source material. He also seems to believe that, since he can see how the intelligence information could have been used, that's how it was used. We simply don't have enough information to say that's how it was (or how it wasn't).]]> 4.22 1995 Marching Orders: The Untold Story of How the American Breaking of the Japanese Secret Codes Led to the Defeat of Nazi Germany and Japan
author: Bruce Lee
name: Richard
average rating: 4.22
book published: 1995
rating: 4
read at: 2022/06/03
date added: 2022/06/05
shelves:
review:
The book is quite good, and explores in detail the results of the work of the code-breakers in WW II and how their work may have influenced the strategic decisions made at the upper levels of command. I have been reading and studying about WW II for many years, and a lot of the information in this book was new to me. For example, I knew we had broken the Japanese diplomatic code - but did not understand that the Japanese ambassador to Germany was reporting, in exquisite detail, the German order of battle, their plans (both immediate and strategic), those plans. Which we were reading. Really interesting.

The bad news is that the author comes across as fairly full of himself. References to other books seem to always be accompanied by comments like "Which I commissioned." "Which I edited." and the like. I didn't go through the source material looking for it, but it seemed like this constituted a lot of his source material. He also seems to believe that, since he can see how the intelligence information could have been used, that's how it was used. We simply don't have enough information to say that's how it was (or how it wasn't).
]]> The Last Checkmate 56922702 Readers of Heather Morris’s The Tattooist of Auschwitz and watchers of The Queen’s Gambit won’t want to miss this amazing debut set during World War II. A young Polish resistance worker, imprisoned in Auschwitz as a political prisoner, plays chess in exchange for her life, and in doing so fights to bring the man who destroyed her family to justice.


Maria Florkowska is many things: daughter, avid chess player, and, as a member of the Polish underground resistance in Nazi-occupied Warsaw, a young woman brave beyond her years. Captured by the Gestapo, she is imprisoned in Auschwitz, but while her family is sent to their deaths, she is spared. Realizing her ability to play chess, the sadistic camp deputy, Karl Fritzsch, decides to use her as a chess opponent to entertain the camp guards. However, once he tires of exploiting her skills, he has every intention of killing her.


Befriended by a Catholic priest, Maria attempts to overcome her grief, vows to avenge the murder of her family, and plays for her life. For four grueling years, her strategy is simple: Live. Fight. Survive. By cleverly provoking Fritzsch’s volatile nature in front of his superiors, Maria intends to orchestrate his downfall. Only then will she have a chance to evade the fate awaiting her and see him punished for his wickedness.


As she carries out her plan and the war nears its end, she challenges her former nemesis to one final game, certain to end in life or death, in failure or justice. If Maria can bear to face Fritzsch—and her past—one last time.]]> 416 Gabriella Saab 0063141930 Richard 0 to-read 4.16 2021 The Last Checkmate
author: Gabriella Saab
name: Richard
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/06/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Jump Seat Leadership: The guide to informal leadership in the fire service]]> 57049413 48 Joshua Chase Richard 4 4.46 Jump Seat Leadership: The guide to informal leadership in the fire service
author: Joshua Chase
name: Richard
average rating: 4.46
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/27
date added: 2022/06/01
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Boldly, Nobly, and Independent: 1893�1955 (Saints, #3)]]> 59568763
After decades of opposition, the Latter-day Saints have dedicated the Salt Lake Temple, a mighty symbol of their industry and faith. Now, with a new century on the horizon, the Saints are optimistic about the future and ready to spread the Savior’s message of peace across the globe.

But the world is rapidly changing. Advances in transportation and communication allow people and information to cross vast distances in record time. And young people are venturing far from home as never before, seeking educational and professional opportunities their parents and grandparents could hardly imagine.

As the Church begins to take root in Europe, South America, and Asia, the Saints rejoice in the rise of the global Church. Yet many Church members are wary of the challenges the changing world poses to the cause of Zion. For with the bright promise of the new century comes dire economic hardships, brutal global wars, and other unprecedented trials.

Boldly, Nobly, and Independent is the third book in Saints, a new, four-volume narrative history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Fast-paced, meticulously researched, and written under the direction of the First Presidency, Saints recounts true stories of Latter-day Saints across the globe and answers the Lord’s call to write a history “for the good of the church, and for the rising generations� (Doctrine and Covenants 69:8).]]> 757 1629726494 Richard 5 4.60 Boldly, Nobly, and Independent: 1893–1955 (Saints, #3)
author: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
name: Richard
average rating: 4.60
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2022/05/29
date added: 2022/06/01
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Beyond (The Founding of Valdemar, #1)]]> 56688207 The long-awaited founding of Valdemar comes to life in this new series from a New York Times bestselling author and beloved fantasist.

Within the Eastern Empire, Duke Kordas Valdemar rules a tiny, bucolic Duchy that focuses mostly on horse breeding. Anticipating the day when the Empire’s exploitative and militant leaders would not be content to leave them alone, Korda’s father set out to gather magicians in the hopes of one day finding a way to escape and protect the people of the Duchy from tyranny.

Kordas has lived his life looking over his shoulder. The signs in the Empire are increasingly dire. Under the direction of the Emperor, mages have begun to harness the power of dark magics, including blood magic, the powers of the Abyssal Planes, and the binding and "milking" of Elemental creatures.

But then one of the Duchy’s mages has a breakthrough. There is a way to place a Gate at a distance so far from the Empire that it is unlikely the Emperor can find or follow them as they evacuate everyone that is willing to leave.

But time is running out, and Kordas has been summoned to the Emperor's Court.

Can his reputation as a country bumpkin and his acting skills buy him and his people the time they need to flee? Or will the Emperor lose patience, invade to strip Valdemar of everything of worth, and send its conscripted people into the front lines of the Imperial wars?]]> 384 Mercedes Lackey 0756417341 Richard 0 to-read 4.34 2021 Beyond (The Founding of Valdemar, #1)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/06/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Children of the Lens (Lensman, #6)]]> 287498
Kim Kinnison of the Patrol was one of the few men who knew how near the end was. And in the last desperate plan to save all life, he knew he had to use his children as bait for the evil powers of the planet Ploor.]]> 292 E.E. "Doc" Smith 188296814X Richard 3
So why only three stars? Because of the typos and formatting - that's a pet peeve of mine, and if it doesn't bother you, then probably 4.5 stars (there are some small inconsistencies with earlier books).]]> 3.93 1947 Children of the Lens (Lensman, #6)
author: E.E. "Doc" Smith
name: Richard
average rating: 3.93
book published: 1947
rating: 3
read at: 2022/05/16
date added: 2022/05/17
shelves:
review:
It's a good book, and a good conclusion to the series. The strength of the female characters in the book is really good, especially considering when it was written. I recommend the entire series, as a lot of the comments on how government work speak to problems we have today.

So why only three stars? Because of the typos and formatting - that's a pet peeve of mine, and if it doesn't bother you, then probably 4.5 stars (there are some small inconsistencies with earlier books).
]]> <![CDATA[Second Stage Lensmen (Lensmen, #5)]]> 826520 254 E.E. "Doc" Smith 1882968131 Richard 4 3.95 1941 Second Stage Lensmen (Lensmen, #5)
author: E.E. "Doc" Smith
name: Richard
average rating: 3.95
book published: 1941
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/15
date added: 2022/05/15
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Gates of Sleep (Elemental Masters, #2)]]> 176876
But though Marina's life seemed idyllic, her existence was riddled with mysteries. Why, for example, had she never seen her parents, or been to Oakhurst, her family's ancestral manor? And why hadn't her real parents, also Elemental Masters, trained her themselves? That there was a secret about all this she had known from the time she had begun to question the world around her. Yet try as she might, she could get no clues out of her guardians.

But Marina would have answers to her questions all too soon. For with the sudden death of her birth parents, Marina met her new guardian- her father's eldest sister Arachne. Aunt Arachne exuded a dark magical aura unlike anything Marina had encountered, a stifling evil that seemed to threaten Marina's very spirit. Slowly Marina realized that her aunt was the embodiment of the danger her parents had been hiding her from in the backwoods of Cornwall. But could Marina unravel the secrets of her life in time to save herself from the evil that had been seeking her for nearly eighteen years?]]> 446 Mercedes Lackey 0756401011 Richard 4
It's the Sleeping Beauty story all over again. If you ever wanted to know why no one told her about the curse, well, that's in here. How did she manage to stay alive all those years without food or water? Explained. Why would she marry someone immediately after being in a coma? Read the book and find out.]]> 3.85 2002 The Gates of Sleep (Elemental Masters, #2)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2002
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/12
date added: 2022/05/13
shelves:
review:
Again, a fairy tale remastered with lots of additional information on how things might have actually happened. I like this series.

It's the Sleeping Beauty story all over again. If you ever wanted to know why no one told her about the curse, well, that's in here. How did she manage to stay alive all those years without food or water? Explained. Why would she marry someone immediately after being in a coma? Read the book and find out.
]]> Galactic Patrol (Lensman, #3) 209506 273 E.E. "Doc" Smith 1882968115 Richard 4
On the other hand, the story line itself is quite good. You should start with the first book in the series (Triplanetary).

The main issue I have with the Kindle version is the proofreading. There are a lot of words that were somehow mixed up when converting from print to electronic, and those are jarring to me (as part of my job I review technical documents) but may not bother you.]]> 3.98 1937 Galactic Patrol (Lensman, #3)
author: E.E. "Doc" Smith
name: Richard
average rating: 3.98
book published: 1937
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/10
date added: 2022/05/10
shelves:
review:
I have loved this series since I was a teenager (though I probably wouldn't like it as much if I had read it first as an adult). The books are written to appeal to a culture that goes back to the 30s - including male chauvinism, though the main female characters are much more in keeping with women of today (not totally, but very powerful personalities). The action is a little over the top as well.

On the other hand, the story line itself is quite good. You should start with the first book in the series (Triplanetary).

The main issue I have with the Kindle version is the proofreading. There are a lot of words that were somehow mixed up when converting from print to electronic, and those are jarring to me (as part of my job I review technical documents) but may not bother you.
]]> <![CDATA[Unnatural Issue (Elemental Masters, #6)]]> 9746384 A brand-new Elemental Masters novel from the national bestselling author Mercedes Lackey.

Richard Whitestone is an Elemental Earth Master. Blaming himself for the death of his beloved wife in childbirth, he has sworn never to set eyes on his daughter, Suzanne. But when he finally sees her, a dark plan takes shape in his twisted mind-to use his daughter's body to bring back the spirit of his long-dead wife.]]> 361 Mercedes Lackey 0756405750 Richard 4
The weaving of how the elemental magicians blend in with real life is enjoyable. The character development is good and consistent as you meet the same characters in differing books in the series. They're a fun read if you need to relax your mind.]]> 3.79 2011 Unnatural Issue (Elemental Masters, #6)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/08
date added: 2022/05/10
shelves:
review:
This is a good series because - among other things - each book puts a practical twist on old stories. The premise (other than the obvious one of having elemental masters in the first place) seems to be that abilities we often attribute to... something, I'm not sure what we would call it could be attributed to mastery of an element (for example, a "green thumb").

The weaving of how the elemental magicians blend in with real life is enjoyable. The character development is good and consistent as you meet the same characters in differing books in the series. They're a fun read if you need to relax your mind.
]]> First Lensman (Lensman, #2) 826521 306 E.E. "Doc" Smith 1882968107 Richard 4
The role of women in the series is interesting. At first reading, they come across as weak and subservient to the men - typical of the time. However, closer reading shows that many of them are just as important and do just as much for the future of mankind as the men do - just in different ways.

Unfortunately there are proofreading errors in the book (a pet-peeve of mine), making it hard for me to give it a better rating.]]> 3.86 1950 First Lensman (Lensman, #2)
author: E.E. "Doc" Smith
name: Richard
average rating: 3.86
book published: 1950
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/08
date added: 2022/05/10
shelves:
review:
Another over-the-top SciFi novel from early in the genre's development. I have always enjoyed reading the series - not for the intellectual content that you can find in today's SciFi, but because the books are such a good example of what people "back in the day" thought the future would bring. Nowadays the "Sci" behind the "Fi" would have to be more realistic - but I read these for enjoyment and not for concentration.

The role of women in the series is interesting. At first reading, they come across as weak and subservient to the men - typical of the time. However, closer reading shows that many of them are just as important and do just as much for the future of mankind as the men do - just in different ways.

Unfortunately there are proofreading errors in the book (a pet-peeve of mine), making it hard for me to give it a better rating.
]]> <![CDATA[Chronicles of the Lensmen, Volume 1: Triplanetary / First Lensman / Galactic Patrol]]> 1992216 709 E.E. "Doc" Smith 1568658044 Richard 4
The story of a futuristic society trying to combat crime and piracy - not just on Earth (or Tellus) but across multiple planets and finally multiple solar systems - is very intriguing and thought-provoking. The idea that there are both good and evil super-powers who seek the mastery across multiple galaxies is also very interesting, as is the manner in which they "do business" (so to speak). I'm re-reading the series again so I know how it turns out, but the writing is superb - resolving crisis after crisis as stepping-stones to the final denouement - holding the reader's interest not only in the short-term but also throughout the series.

It is definitely over-the-top science fiction and there are inconsistencies (as, for example, when a poison gas can be safely inhaled through multiple layers of water-soaked cloth - but is also toxic in water), but I enjoyed it.]]> 3.95 1937 Chronicles of the Lensmen, Volume 1: Triplanetary / First Lensman / Galactic Patrol
author: E.E. "Doc" Smith
name: Richard
average rating: 3.95
book published: 1937
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/06
date added: 2022/05/06
shelves:
review:
If this book had been written today, I would have given it two stars - but for the time, the "over-the-top" and sexist nature of the book were commonplace.

The story of a futuristic society trying to combat crime and piracy - not just on Earth (or Tellus) but across multiple planets and finally multiple solar systems - is very intriguing and thought-provoking. The idea that there are both good and evil super-powers who seek the mastery across multiple galaxies is also very interesting, as is the manner in which they "do business" (so to speak). I'm re-reading the series again so I know how it turns out, but the writing is superb - resolving crisis after crisis as stepping-stones to the final denouement - holding the reader's interest not only in the short-term but also throughout the series.

It is definitely over-the-top science fiction and there are inconsistencies (as, for example, when a poison gas can be safely inhaled through multiple layers of water-soaked cloth - but is also toxic in water), but I enjoyed it.
]]> <![CDATA[Brothers, Rivals, Victors: Eisenhower, Patton, Bradley and the Partnership that Drove the Allied Conquest in Europe]]> 8965840
Supreme Allied Commander Dwight D. Eisenhower, General George S. Patton, and General Omar N. Bradley engineered the Allied conquest that shattered Hitler's hold over Europe. But they also shared an intricate web of relationships going back decades. In the cauldron of World War II, they found their prewar friendships complicated by shifting allegiances, jealousy, insecurity, patriotism, and ambition.

Meticulously researched and vividly written, Jonathan W. Jordan's Brothers Rivals, Victors recounts the battle for Europe through the eyes of these three legendary generals who fought to liberate two continents. For the first time in such detail, the bonds between these battle captains are explored, and readers are treated to a rare insider's view of life at the summit of raw, violent power. Throughout three years of hard, bloody warfare, Eisenhower, the Alliance's great diplomat, sought victory in the fighting qualities and tactical genius of his most trusted subordinates, Bradley and Patton. Bradley and Patton, in turn, owed their careers to Eisenhower, who protected them from the slings and arrows of politicians, rival generals, their allies, and the U.S. Navy. The twin pillars of their working relationships were duty and trust. Yet their friendship, so genuine and unalloyed before the war, would be put to the ultimate test as life-and-death decisions were thrust upon them, and honor and duty conflicted with personal loyalty.

Brothers Rivals Victors is drawn from the candid accounts of its main characters, and strips away much of the public image of "Ike" (Eisenhower), the "G.I.'s General" (Bradley), and "Old Blood and Guts" (Patton) to reveal the men lurking beneath the legend. Adding richness to this insider's story are the words and observations of a supporting cast of generals, staff officers, secretaries, aides, politicians, and wives, whose close proximity to Eisenhower, Bradley and Patton in times of stress and tranquility are brought together to produce a uniquely intimate account of a relationship that influenced a war. The story of how these three great strategists pulled together to wage the deadliest conflict in history, despite their differences and rivalries, is marvelously told in this eye-opening narrative, sure to become a classic of military history.]]> 552 Jonathan W. Jordan 0451232127 Richard 4
That being said, the book provides excellent insights into the relationships between the men - how they developed, and how they broke down as the war continued. Knowing the background of the various campaigns mentioned throughout the book provided a framework on which to hang the information provided here.

Seeing under the covers, as it were, provides a really interesting view on how the Generals worked (and did not) work together, why GEN Patton was not relieved (any of a number of times), and how GEN Bradley moved from his subordinate to his superior.

I recommend it for WW II buffs.]]> 4.23 2011 Brothers, Rivals, Victors: Eisenhower, Patton, Bradley and the Partnership that Drove the Allied Conquest in Europe
author: Jonathan W. Jordan
name: Richard
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/04
date added: 2022/05/05
shelves:
review:
An interesting book. It is exactly what the Introduction says it is - a book about the relationships between the Generals set in the ETO. It is not a book about WW II, so if you're looking for that you'll need to look elsewhere.

That being said, the book provides excellent insights into the relationships between the men - how they developed, and how they broke down as the war continued. Knowing the background of the various campaigns mentioned throughout the book provided a framework on which to hang the information provided here.

Seeing under the covers, as it were, provides a really interesting view on how the Generals worked (and did not) work together, why GEN Patton was not relieved (any of a number of times), and how GEN Bradley moved from his subordinate to his superior.

I recommend it for WW II buffs.
]]> <![CDATA[A Duty to the Dead (Bess Crawford, #1)]]> 6093438
England, 1916. Independent-minded Bess Crawford's upbringing was far different from that of the usual upper-middle class British gentlewoman. Growing up in India, she learned the importance of responsibility, honor, and duty from her officer father. At the outbreak of World War I, Bess volunteered for the nursing corps, serving from the battlefields of France to the doomed hospital ship Britannic.

On one voyage, Bess grows fond of the young, gravely wounded Lieutenant Arthur Graham. Something rests heavily on his conscience, and to give him a bit of peace as he dies, she promises to deliver a message to his brother. It is some months before she can carry out this duty, and when she's next in England, she herself is recovering from a wound.

When Bess arrives at the Graham house in Kent, Jonathan Graham listens to his brother's last wishes with surprising indifference. Neither his mother nor his brother Timothy seems to think it has any significance, either. Unsettled by this, Bess is about to take her leave when sudden tragedy envelops her. She quickly discovers that fulfilling this duty to the dead has thrust her into a maelstrom of intrigue and murder that will endanger her own life and test her courage as not even war has.]]> 336 Charles Todd 0061791768 Richard 3
Bess - could have been a much more powerful figure, but she keeps relapsing into a swoon for the (now dead) soldier. It's hard to tell if she's got her act together or is working completely on based on a belief that cannot possibly be true because was so nice!

There are some twists - but not enough to make it truly interesting. It's nice to be led down "the primrose path" - but only if, when you find out it's a dead end, the reason why makes you say "Drat! I should have seen that coming!" In this book, you know you're on the primrose path, and you know you're going to hit a dead end, but there was no way to see what was coming. It just is.]]> 3.90 2009 A Duty to the Dead (Bess Crawford, #1)
author: Charles Todd
name: Richard
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2009
rating: 3
read at: 2022/04/25
date added: 2022/04/26
shelves:
review:
An interesting read. The main character, Bess, is almost well-developed; others are vague and shadowy, appearing when needed to support the story line, then wandering off until needed again. The plot itself is somewhat vague - a message from a dying soldier to his family that leads to the discovery of a possible (we don't find out until very, very late in the book what actually happened) miscarriage of justice.

Bess - could have been a much more powerful figure, but she keeps relapsing into a swoon for the (now dead) soldier. It's hard to tell if she's got her act together or is working completely on based on a belief that cannot possibly be true because was so nice!

There are some twists - but not enough to make it truly interesting. It's nice to be led down "the primrose path" - but only if, when you find out it's a dead end, the reason why makes you say "Drat! I should have seen that coming!" In this book, you know you're on the primrose path, and you know you're going to hit a dead end, but there was no way to see what was coming. It just is.
]]> France: A History 25275157 278 Marshall B. Davidson 1612308511 Richard 3 3.73 2015 France: A History
author: Marshall B. Davidson
name: Richard
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2022/04/21
date added: 2022/04/21
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[La sombra del viento (El cementerio de los libros olvidados, #1)]]> 184834 478 Carlos Ruiz Zafón 0974872407 Richard 4 4.50 2001 La sombra del viento (El cementerio de los libros olvidados, #1)
author: Carlos Ruiz Zafón
name: Richard
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at: 2022/04/14
date added: 2022/04/16
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[When Darkness Falls (Obsidian Mountain, #3)]]> 176789 602 Mercedes Lackey 0765341433 Richard 4 4.18 2006 When Darkness Falls (Obsidian Mountain, #3)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at: 2022/04/09
date added: 2022/04/09
shelves:
review:
An excellent conclusion to the series. There are a couple of points that strain my willing suspension of disbelief (among them the number of "moonturns" or months that take place between Kellen's acceptance of the mageprice to have Shalkan's help and the point where that mageprice is fulfilled), but overall I really enjoyed the book. I recommend the series.
]]> <![CDATA[To Light a Candle (Obsidian Mountain, #2)]]> 13999 To Light a Candle, the second book in The Obsidian Trilogy from Mercedes Lackey and James Mallory

The Demon Queen Attacks!

To his own surprise, young Kellen, once the disappointing son of the great Mage who leads the City's Mage Council, has become a powerful Knight-Mage. Valued for his bravery and his skills as both wizard and warrior, Kellen joins the Elves' war councils. Yet he cannot convince the City of his birth that it is in terrible danger.
Kellen's sister Idalia, a Wild Mage with great healing ability, has pledged her heart to Jermayan, a proud Elven warrior. Someday Idalia will pay a tragic Price for a world-saving work of Wild Magic, but until then, she will claim any joy life can offer her.
Jermayan, who has learned much fighting at Kellen's side and loving the human Idalia, finds that everything changes when he Bonds with a dragon while rescuing the Elf Prince and becomes the first Elven Mage in a thousand years.
Furious at her enemies' success with the dragon, the Demon Queen attacks in force. Light struggles against Dark, like flickering candle flames buried deep in the shadow of Obsidian Mountain.]]> 856 Mercedes Lackey 0765341425 Richard 4 4.13 2004 To Light a Candle (Obsidian Mountain, #2)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2004
rating: 4
read at: 2022/04/06
date added: 2022/04/07
shelves:
review:
An excellent sequel to the first book. This is a great series. Character development continues to be good, and the characters aren't perfect (which I like - no one is in real life and I appreciate the fact that they aren't in the book, either). The plans of the enemy progress in a logical fashion, and the plans of the allies are not going so well (since they are completely confused by the enemy's actions, that's hardly surprising).
]]> <![CDATA[The Outstretched Shadow (Obsidian Mountain, #1)]]> 176843
Then he found the forbidden Books of Wild Magic-or did they find him? The three slim volumes woke Kellen to the wide world outside the City's isolating walls. Their Magic was not dead, strangled by rules and regulations. It felt like a living thing, guided by the hearts and minds of those who practiced it and benefited from it.

Questioning everything he has known, Kellen discovers too many of the City's dark secrets. Banished, with the Outlaw Hunt on his heels, Kellen invokes Wild Magic-and finds himself running for his life with a unicorn at his side.

Kellen's life changes almost faster than he can understand or accept. Rescued by a unicorn, healed by a female Wild Mage who knows more about Kellen than anyone outside the City should, meeting Elven royalty and Elven warriors, and plunged into a world where the magical beings he has learned about as abstract concepts are flesh and blood creatures-Kellen both revels in and fears his new freedom.

Especially once he learns about Demons. He'd always thought they were another abstract concept-a stand-in for ultimate evil. But if centaurs and dryads are real, then Demons surely are as well. And the one thing all the Mages of the City agreed on was that practicing Wild Magic corrupted a Mage. Turned him into a Demon. Would that be Kellen's fate?

Deep in Obsidian Mountain, the Demons are waiting. Since their defeat in the last great War, they've been biding their time, sowing the seeds of distrust and discontent between their human and Elven enemies. Very soon now, when the Demons rise to make war, there will be no alliance between High and Wild Magic to stand against them. And all the world will belong to the Endarkened.]]> 608 Mercedes Lackey 0765302195 Richard 4
This is really good fantasy. Not as deep as Tolkein, but if you like Tolkein, I think you'll like this as well.]]> 4.02 2003 The Outstretched Shadow (Obsidian Mountain, #1)
author: Mercedes Lackey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at: 2022/04/03
date added: 2022/04/03
shelves:
review:
This is much different than I thought it was going to be - but quite good, it just took me changing my mindset. The characters are quite believable, life isn't as simple as many books make it (that is, there are serious problems and the fixes usually involve some sort of pain/sacrifice - and even then don't always work).

This is really good fantasy. Not as deep as Tolkein, but if you like Tolkein, I think you'll like this as well.
]]> The Path of Duty 31929664 Stingray from blame but instead, she was sucked into a vortex of intrigue and treachery that threatened not only all of their lives, but the future of the embattled Commonwealth. In the midst of competing schemes for supremacy, fending off marauders, mercenaries and spies, Dunmoore had to find a way to get her people home safe and beyond the reach of powerful cabals that had burrowed their way deep into the heart of the Admiralty. If her ship was to survive, she had to find the path of duty, no matter the personal cost, even if the price she had to pay was her own existence.

The Path of Duty is the thrilling sequel to No Honor in Death and brings back the men and women serving aboard the Commonwealth Navy frigate Stingray.
]]> 366 Eric Thomson Richard 4 3.81 2015 The Path of Duty
author: Eric Thomson
name: Richard
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2022/04/03
date added: 2022/04/03
shelves:
review:
A good sequel to the first one. What I liked most about this one was its depth. The plot forces you to think about what you would do in a similar situation and where/how you would handle conflicting loyalties. You find out that there is a plot among officers very senior to you to overthrow the government because of the way it has mismanaged the war. This mismanagement has cost you, personally - not only in personal injuries, but in the deaths of those under your command. You took an oath to the government, but you also have a bond with others in the military, and an even stronger bond to those under your command. While you agree that the government is not doing its job, what do you do? Which loyalty(ies) are paramount here? Does the "big picture" override the personal bond with your crew? Well written.
]]> No Honor in Death 29595877
Sailing yet another ruined starship home after a near defeat, she wanted nothing more than a long, long rest, because this time, she had escaped by the thinnest of bluffs. Unfortunately, the Admiralty had other ideas. The frigate Stingray was known as the unluckiest ship in the Fleet and her Captain had just been removed in disgrace for cowardice. Some in the Admiralty would dearly love to retire the old warhorse. After all, she was the last of her type left in service, and perhaps it was time to break up the jinx permanently, along with the crew. But in the midst of an interstellar war, every ship that could fight was needed.

In short order, Dunmoore went from staring down the Empire's finest on the bridge of a wrecked battleship to taking on a demoralized, semi-mutinous crew, scheming Admirals and a deadly mystery. Stingray's bad luck wasn't just superstition gone rampant. Between a crew that won't talk, political enemies who want her gone, and her personal demons, she's got her hands full. Taking the frigate into battle under those conditions would seem foolish to anyone else, but Dunmoore was never one to shrink from a good fight. Failure was not an option, and defeat not an acceptable alternative, for there was no honor in death. She would redeem herself and her ship or be damned for all eternity.]]> 402 Eric Thomson Richard 4
Other than those two faux pas, an excellent read. I have read it several times and still enjoy it. A great story; well worth getting.]]> 4.01 2014 No Honor in Death
author: Eric Thomson
name: Richard
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2022/04/01
date added: 2022/04/03
shelves:
review:
The two main problems with the book are easily overlooked (but that's why only four stars and not five): The colors were flown off the stern of a ship in the wet navy, and General Order Eighty-Eight quickly morphs into General Order Eighty-One (where it remains for the rest of the series).

Other than those two faux pas, an excellent read. I have read it several times and still enjoy it. A great story; well worth getting.
]]> <![CDATA[El Libro de Mormon: Otro Testamento de Jesucristo]]> 12364846 642 Joseph Smith Jr. Richard 5
Cualquiera persona que tenga un deseo verdadero de conocer al Señor Jesucristo y su doctrina debe leer el libro.]]> 4.78 El Libro de Mormon: Otro Testamento de Jesucristo
author: Joseph Smith Jr.
name: Richard
average rating: 4.78
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2022/03/26
date added: 2022/03/28
shelves:
review:
Es un libro fabuloso. Lo leí la primera vez cuando era adolescente, y aún aprendo algo nuevo cada vez que lo vuelvo a leer. Contiene la historia religiosa de dos civilizaciones aquí en los continentes americanos, incluso un relato de la visita del Señor al pueblo que vivía aquí. El título oficial del libro es "El Libro de Mormón Otro Testamento de Jesucristo" y cumple esta promesa.

Cualquiera persona que tenga un deseo verdadero de conocer al Señor Jesucristo y su doctrina debe leer el libro.
]]> <![CDATA[The Tower and the Hive (The Tower and the Hive, #5)]]> 96460 400 Anne McCaffrey 0552146293 Richard 3
The plot line is still good - but some of what happens is just way too contrived and - in some cases - inconsistent with things we learn in previous books. For example, recently 'ported message tubes are very cold to the touch, having traveled through space. However, transferring living material (without a pod) works just fine in this book. The fact that some of the work ends up bringing all of the families together is more of a family reunion than something required by the task. It was a disappointing end to the series.]]> 3.97 1999 The Tower and the Hive (The Tower and the Hive, #5)
author: Anne McCaffrey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.97
book published: 1999
rating: 3
read at: 2022/03/28
date added: 2022/03/28
shelves:
review:
Another good - but only good - book in the series. I recognize that authors sometimes bite off more than they can chew (so to speak) and so the last book of a series has to tie up a lot of loose ends, but I really do not like using the proverbial miracle to do so.

The plot line is still good - but some of what happens is just way too contrived and - in some cases - inconsistent with things we learn in previous books. For example, recently 'ported message tubes are very cold to the touch, having traveled through space. However, transferring living material (without a pod) works just fine in this book. The fact that some of the work ends up bringing all of the families together is more of a family reunion than something required by the task. It was a disappointing end to the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Lyon's Pride (The Tower and the Hive, #4)]]> 24869 347 Anne McCaffrey 0552139149 Richard 3
I really like the books, and I recommend them - but there are some issues in how (for example) the military works. There are other areas where the "Talents" - for all that they're the paragon of virtue - do things that I think are ethically questionable. Not morally wrong, just questionable.

Overall, however, it's a great series and I recommend it.]]> 3.94 1994 Lyon's Pride (The Tower and the Hive, #4)
author: Anne McCaffrey
name: Richard
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1994
rating: 3
read at: 2022/03/25
date added: 2022/03/25
shelves:
review:
Hard decision - 3.5 stars would have been my choice.

I really like the books, and I recommend them - but there are some issues in how (for example) the military works. There are other areas where the "Talents" - for all that they're the paragon of virtue - do things that I think are ethically questionable. Not morally wrong, just questionable.

Overall, however, it's a great series and I recommend it.
]]> <![CDATA[Wraith Squadron: Star Wars Legends (Wraith Squadron, #1)]]> 773545 As the battle against the Empire rages, a new crew of X-wing fighters risk life and machine on a daring undercover mission and emerge as the Rebel Alliance’s elite strike force.

It is Wedge Antilles’s boldest creation: a covert-action unit of X-wing fighters, its pilots drawn from the dregs of other units, castoffs and rejects being given one last chance. But before the new pilots can complete their training, the squadron’s base is attacked by former Imperial admiral Trigit and Wraith Squadron is forced to swing into action—taking over an Imperial warship and impersonating its crew.

The mission: to gain vital intelligence about Trigit’s secret weapons, to sabotage the admiral’s plans, and to lure him into an Alliance trap. However, the high-stakes gamble pits Wraith Squadron’s ragtag renegades against the Empire’s most brilliant master of guile and deception.

Are they up to the challenge?

If not, the penalty is instant death.]]> 416 Aaron Allston 0553578944 Richard 4 4.13 1998 Wraith Squadron: Star Wars Legends (Wraith Squadron, #1)
author: Aaron Allston
name: Richard
average rating: 4.13
book published: 1998
rating: 4
read at: 2022/03/23
date added: 2022/03/24
shelves:
review:
This is a really good series, and I highly recommend it for Star Wars fans. There are some small issues with continuity; some of those are due to the way the Stars Wars canon itself (rank, for example) and some that you will only see if you're thinking in terms of the practical application of what's going on.
]]> <![CDATA[SSN: A Strategy Guide to Submarine Warfare]]> 397156 SSN is a complete submarine warfare novel with maps, photos, and a special interview with Tom Clancy and former submarine commander Doug Littlejohns]]> 347 Tom Clancy 0425173534 Richard 3 3.67 1996 SSN: A Strategy Guide to Submarine Warfare
author: Tom Clancy
name: Richard
average rating: 3.67
book published: 1996
rating: 3
read at: 2022/03/22
date added: 2022/03/24
shelves:
review:
It's not a bad book - but its purpose was to stimulate interest in a video game and so it's not as well researched or realistic as most of his books. Don't get me wrong - it's a good read, but it's not up to his other books like Airborne, Armored Cav, or Fighter Wing.
]]> <![CDATA[The Ship Who Searched (Brainship, #3)]]> 176850
Tia Cade is a headstrong, smart, and very normal girl until she contracts a terrible illness that leaves her with the bare semblance of life. Tia's only hope: to become the oldest person ever to train to be one of the legendary star travelers, the brainships. But now that Tia is free of her ravaged body, there still remains the task of finding the right partner to be her Brawn, the human element every brainship requires. And when the disease that debilitated Tia threatens thousands more, selecting a Brawn who is her true soul mate may allow Tia to find the origin of the terrible plague—and perhaps even a cure.]]> 312 Anne; Lackey McCaffrey 1857232054 Richard 4
There are a couple of inconsistencies in the books - which is to be expected, but which bother me.]]> 4.10 1992 The Ship Who Searched (Brainship, #3)
author: Anne; Lackey McCaffrey
name: Richard
average rating: 4.10
book published: 1992
rating: 4
read at: 2022/03/19
date added: 2022/03/21
shelves:
review:
I really enjoy this series - the characters are always well-developed (foibles and all) and interesting. I could see myself being friends with some of them. They're not perfect, but they're basically fun to be around. The plot lines are good and the stories teach lessons.

There are a couple of inconsistencies in the books - which is to be expected, but which bother me.
]]> <![CDATA[In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox]]> 28363991 301 Carol Burnett 1101904658 Richard 5 3.79 2016 In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox
author: Carol Burnett
name: Richard
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2022/03/21
date added: 2022/03/21
shelves:
review:
An excellent book. Very down to earth, very funny, very clean, just a wonderful read. If you've ever watched even one Carol Burnett show, you'll love the book.
]]> The Battle for Leyte Gulf 45452634
It the largest engagement ever fought on the high seas.

From Singapore, Formosa, and Japan the Imperial Japanese Navy set forth: 9 battleships, 4 carriers, 14 heavy cruisers, 6 light cruisers, 33 destroyers � all bound for victory or death in the waters of Leyte Gulf.

They were met by the combined forces of the American and Australian navies with 12 battleships, 8 fleet carriers, 8 light carriers, 18 escort carriers, 24 cruisers, 166 destroyers and destroyer escorts, along with numerous other vessels.

For the Japanese the battle represented the supreme naval effort of the war.

At Leyte Gulf they aimed to smash the Allied navies and prevent the American attempt to recapture the Philippines.

The Japanese were willing to gamble everything on this battle and one of their Admirals, Takeo Kurita, admitted after the war that they “expected that more than half our ships would be lost.�

Yet, the Japanese were not able to smash the Allied navies and never again demonstrated the same strength on the highs seas that they had prior to 23rd October 1944.

C. Vann Woodward, the Pulitzer-prize winning historian, provides a fascinating overview of the engagement that lasted for four days.

He breaks down the conflict into four separate major battles, including the Battle of the Sibuyan Sea, the Battle of Surigao Strait, the Battle off Cape Engaño, and the Battle off Samar, to demonstrate to the reader the sheer scale and ferocity of the Battle for Leyte Gulf.

“This is the first full account of what will undoubtedly be a considerable library on the Battle for Leyte Gulf and it is well that it is the first. The general picture is so soundly documented that it is hard to see how anyone, ever, will be able to improve on Mr. Woodward’s presentation of the facts in the case.� � The New York Times

C. Vann Woodward was Professor of History at John Hopkins University and subsequently at Yale. During the war he served as as an Intelligence Officer in the Office of Chief of Naval Operations. He wrote numerous books on the American south and race relations. His book The Battle for Leyte Gulf was first published in 1947 and he passed away in 1999.

]]> 239 C. Vann Woodward Richard 4
The only problem - and it's endemic to ebooks - is that you can't move back and forth easily to look at the illustrations (in this case maps). The quality of the maps also suffered in the reproduction.]]> 4.20 1947 The Battle for Leyte Gulf
author: C. Vann Woodward
name: Richard
average rating: 4.20
book published: 1947
rating: 4
read at: 2022/03/15
date added: 2022/03/15
shelves:
review:
A very good analysis of the battle, including input from the Japanese side. Well researched and well written, with clear statements as to when the actual records are not available. It is, perforce, high-level (there are other books that provide much more detail about specific actions, like the heroic sacrifice of the DDs and DEs in the face of heavy warships that were attacking the carriers they were assigned to escort), but that does not detract from either its quality or usefulness.

The only problem - and it's endemic to ebooks - is that you can't move back and forth easily to look at the illustrations (in this case maps). The quality of the maps also suffered in the reproduction.
]]> <![CDATA[Courageous (The Lost Fleet, #3)]]> 1372055 The Lost Fleet continues its perilous journey home.

Badly damaged and low on supplies, the Alliance Fleet is raiding Syndic mines for raw materials-and Captain "Black Jack" Geary hopes they can continue to remain one step ahead of their enemies. But the Syndics are the least of Geary's worries when he learns of the existence of aliens with the power to annihilate the human race.]]> 299 Jack Campbell 0441015670 Richard 5 3.99 2007 Courageous (The Lost Fleet, #3)
author: Jack Campbell
name: Richard
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at: 2022/03/08
date added: 2022/03/10
shelves:
review:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - an excellent read, and continues with the overall excellence of the series. In fact, the series is getting better as things go along. I recommend this series to anyone with an interest in naval warfare or space opera.
]]> Fearless (The Lost Fleet, #2) 96594 ]]> 295 Jack Campbell 0441014763 Richard 5 4.00 2007 Fearless (The Lost Fleet, #2)
author: Jack Campbell
name: Richard
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at: 2022/03/06
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves:
review:
Superb - a great sequel. The difficulties involved in managing a fleet, the personality problems, individual courage and sacrifice, the fact that not everything goes perfectly (though Captain Geary does seem to have an uncanny ability to out-think his enemy) - all of these combine into a really great book. Looking forward to the next one.
]]> <![CDATA[Dauntless (The Lost Fleet, #1)]]> 112292
Captain John "Black Jack" Geary's legendary exploits are known to every schoolchild. Revered for his heroic "last stand" in the early days of the war, he was presumed dead. But a century later, Geary miraculously returns from survival hibernation and reluctantly takes command of the Alliance fleet as it faces annihilation by the Syndics.

Appalled by the hero-worship around him, Geary is nevertheless a man who will do his duty. And he knows that bringing the stolen Syndic hypernet key safely home is the Alliance's one chance to win the war. But to do that, Geary will have to live up to the impossibly heroic "Black Jack" legend...]]> 293 Jack Campbell 0441014186 Richard 5 3.97 2006 Dauntless (The Lost Fleet, #1)
author: Jack Campbell
name: Richard
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2006
rating: 5
read at: 2022/03/05
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves:
review:
I loved this book - literally could not put it down. The character development is superb, the hero has some issues (though not, AFAIK, some deep, dark secret that will come out and throw a plot twist in somewhere). Things go wrong, but they also go right. The military aspect of it is pretty accurate (though officers and enlisted have different mess facilities). An excellent book; looking forward to reading more in the series.
]]> <![CDATA[The Framed Father (Father Tom #2)]]> 54509912
When the Archbishop receives an anonymous letter accusing Saint Clare’s pastor Father Leonard McCoy of inappropriate behavior with the young parish secretary, he sends Father Tom back to Myerton from the quiet of the monastery to look into the charges. When the secretary is found dead and Father McCoy is charged with her murder, he must work against his ex-fiancee Detective Helen Parr and the State Attorney--who is also her boyfriend--to prevent a miscarrage of justice.

But everything is not as it seems...]]> 276 J.R. Mathis Richard 4
The mystery, however, could have used some work. There were a lot of questions I had that the investigation didn't address (or, in fact, consider) without being prodded - I would have thought those issues would have been dealt with as soon as they were discovered. ]]> 4.45 2020 The Framed Father (Father Tom #2)
author: J.R. Mathis
name: Richard
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2022/03/05
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves:
review:
An excellent mystery, with plenty of twists and turns in the plot. The characters are well-developed and consistent, while at the same time not being perfect. They have personal problems, and those problems affect their lives. They make mistakes, but act consistently. I like them.

The mystery, however, could have used some work. There were a lot of questions I had that the investigation didn't address (or, in fact, consider) without being prodded - I would have thought those issues would have been dealt with as soon as they were discovered.
]]>