Tony's bookshelf: all en-US Sat, 21 Jun 2025 04:25:30 -0700 60 Tony's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[Grimm Fairy Tales Digital Omnibus Vol. 1]]> 22888824
Don't miss this seminal collection of the first twenty-four issues of the popular Grimm Fairy Tales series from Zenescope Entertainment! The Grimm Fairy Tales omnibus is a must have for any lover of fantasy and action adventure stories. The omnibus is the perfect introduction to the Grimm Universe!]]> 624 Various Tony 3
There have been different writers and different artists, but the art is always cheesecake. Although the writing quality has varied somewhat, it is generally reasonable.

The biggest drawback for me was that while it is good to have the complete story like this, it isn't really complete - the first annual isn't included, and some of the later stories refer to events that happen in that volume.]]> 3.71 2012 Grimm Fairy Tales Digital Omnibus Vol. 1
author: Various
name: Tony
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2012
rating: 3
read at: 2015/04/18
date added: 2025/06/21
shelves: graphic-novels, currently-reading
review:
The Grimm Fairy Tales series originally started as re-tellings of classic fairy tales in a modern setting, with cheesecake art. As the series progressed and grew in popularity, Zenescope started to build a back story, and develop an overarching plot to tie the stories together. This volume reprints the first 24 issues of the comic, and is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to follow the story.

There have been different writers and different artists, but the art is always cheesecake. Although the writing quality has varied somewhat, it is generally reasonable.

The biggest drawback for me was that while it is good to have the complete story like this, it isn't really complete - the first annual isn't included, and some of the later stories refer to events that happen in that volume.
]]> One Martian Afternoon 21797744 7 Tom Leahy Tony 3 science-fiction 3.64 2011 One Martian Afternoon
author: Tom Leahy
name: Tony
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves: science-fiction
review:
A very short story. Not badly written, but the "surprise" ending was pretty obvious halfway through the story.
]]> <![CDATA[Swordsmistress of Chaos (Raven, #1)]]> 4461448 174 Richard Kirk 0552106941 Tony 0 currently-reading 3.06 1978 Swordsmistress of Chaos (Raven, #1)
author: Richard Kirk
name: Tony
average rating: 3.06
book published: 1978
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> Navy Day 13481426 The Army had a new theme "Anything you can do, we can do better!" And they meant anything, including up-to-date hornpipes!
Science Fiction
Play 00:12:30
Public Domain stories from Project Gutenberg, that are read by volunteers.
First published in If Worlds of Science Fiction
Free download from LibriVox.org
Down load file sizes
[mp3@64kbps - 6.0MB]
[mp3@128kbps - 12.0MB]
[ogg vorbis - 8.16MB]]]> 6 Harry Harrison Tony 2 science-fiction 2.80 1954 Navy Day
author: Harry Harrison
name: Tony
average rating: 2.80
book published: 1954
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/06/20
shelves: science-fiction
review:
Pretty silly, certainly not one of Harrison's best stories.
]]> Spores: A Sci-Fi Horror Novel 223907834 Secrets aren’t the only things that won’t stay buried.

When an earthquake strikes downtown Denver, far from the nearest active fault system, the USGS dispatches Dr. Dayna Raines and an emergency response team to investigate. They discover that the epicenter corresponds to a decommissioned deep injection well once used by the U.S. Army to dispose of chemical weapons, which have eroded the earth and created the unstable cavern system responsible for the seismic activity.

Their mission is to descend into the unknown depths, evaluate the fault zone, and initiate a controlled demolition of the subterranean cavity before another earthquake strikes, causing a mass casualty event. And they’re running out of time.

But military scientists had been experimenting with even deadlier armaments, including a biological organism so lethal that they were forced to bury it two miles down, where no one would ever find it.

Until now.

“McBride’s style brings to mind both James Rollins and Michael Crichton.� � Sci-Fi & Scary

“Thrilling entertainment.� � Publishers Weekly on Mutation]]> 280 Michael McBride Tony 4
There is a fair bit of scientific jargon (technobabble) in the book, which does add to its authenticity, but may put some readers off. I would say that you shouldn't let it stop you from reading this book, as most of the meaning will be obvious from the context,

Most of the science is pretty accurate, and there is a fair bit of finding out - in the FAFO sense. This book may be a one-off, but it could be the start of a series. Thoroughly enjoyable.]]> 4.26 Spores: A Sci-Fi Horror Novel
author: Michael McBride
name: Tony
average rating: 4.26
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/19
date added: 2025/06/19
shelves: bingo2025, horror, science-fiction
review:
This is a well-written, fast-paced thriller which combines sci-fi with a large dose of medical horror. Much like books like The Hot Zone presented a terrifying vision of viruses out of control, this does the same for the nightmare fuel fungus - cordyceps.

There is a fair bit of scientific jargon (technobabble) in the book, which does add to its authenticity, but may put some readers off. I would say that you shouldn't let it stop you from reading this book, as most of the meaning will be obvious from the context,

Most of the science is pretty accurate, and there is a fair bit of finding out - in the FAFO sense. This book may be a one-off, but it could be the start of a series. Thoroughly enjoyable.
]]> Faster Than Light Vol. 2 33033697 Brian Haberlin 1534301488 Tony 3
The artwork maintained its high quality, and the writing is good, although it does tend to jump around a bit, but my biggest gripe is that there should have been more. I don't know why Haberlin choose not to continue this series - perhaps he no longer had time, perhaps the sales figures didn't justify continuing, perhaps he didn't have another story to tell - in any event, there were no more issues created, which I think is a pity.]]> 3.29 2016 Faster Than Light Vol. 2
author: Brian Haberlin
name: Tony
average rating: 3.29
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/16
date added: 2025/06/16
shelves: graphic-novels, science-fiction
review:
This volume wraps up the comic series, but it didn't really provide a satisfactory ending. The storyline that runs through the final 5 issues does get concluded, although there is certainly a bit of deus ex machina in the resolution, but it feels like the show has been cancelled halfway through the first season.

The artwork maintained its high quality, and the writing is good, although it does tend to jump around a bit, but my biggest gripe is that there should have been more. I don't know why Haberlin choose not to continue this series - perhaps he no longer had time, perhaps the sales figures didn't justify continuing, perhaps he didn't have another story to tell - in any event, there were no more issues created, which I think is a pity.
]]> Star Wars: Choices Of One 10472259 366 Timothy Zahn 1846056772 Tony 4 bingo2025, science-fiction
This is, I understand, a sequel to Zahn's novel Allegiance, which I have not read, but I did not have any problem in following the plot, although there were probably things I didn't pick up on because I hadn't read the earlier novel.

Zahn is very good at creating interesting characters, and he also does an excellent job of depicting the characters of Luke, Leia, and Han accurately for the time period this novel is set in - between the first two movies. Zahn also does an excellent job of introducing nuance into a universe that is essentially black and white - at least as it was depicted in the original trilogy of movies. In this book, the Empire is not the monolithic force of evil that it is in the movies - there are officers of the Empire who are interested in improving the lives of their subjects.

This was an enjoyable read.
]]> 4.26 2011 Star Wars: Choices Of One
author: Timothy Zahn
name: Tony
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/12
date added: 2025/06/12
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
While I am very familiar with the Star Wars universe from the movies and the TV shows, I have not read many of the novels, and most of the reading I have done is set before the time of the Old Republic. That said, I am aware of the characters Mara Jade and Thrawn, both of whom feature in this novel.

This is, I understand, a sequel to Zahn's novel Allegiance, which I have not read, but I did not have any problem in following the plot, although there were probably things I didn't pick up on because I hadn't read the earlier novel.

Zahn is very good at creating interesting characters, and he also does an excellent job of depicting the characters of Luke, Leia, and Han accurately for the time period this novel is set in - between the first two movies. Zahn also does an excellent job of introducing nuance into a universe that is essentially black and white - at least as it was depicted in the original trilogy of movies. In this book, the Empire is not the monolithic force of evil that it is in the movies - there are officers of the Empire who are interested in improving the lives of their subjects.

This was an enjoyable read.

]]> <![CDATA[Faster Than Light, Volume 1: First Steps]]> 30685044 152 Brian Haberlin 1632158590 Tony 4
There are two stories here, as there are two FTL capable starships, but one is on a secret mission, and sometimes the author is not so good at clearly delineating which story is being told, which did make it a little confusing to follow in places. There's also some backstory that hasn't been filled in - perhaps that will be covered in the rest of the issues. Those are the bad points.

On the positive side, the dialogue is good, and the characters seem real people. The artwork is nice, particularly the spacecraft, and the colours work well. The story is interesting, and does have a touch of Star Trek about it. I'm looking forward to finishing the series.]]> 4.00 2016 Faster Than Light, Volume 1: First Steps
author: Brian Haberlin
name: Tony
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/11
date added: 2025/06/11
shelves: graphic-novels, science-fiction
review:
This graphic novel tells the first half of a story that covered 10 issues. The story is basically humans discover FTL travel and set out to explore the galaxy.

There are two stories here, as there are two FTL capable starships, but one is on a secret mission, and sometimes the author is not so good at clearly delineating which story is being told, which did make it a little confusing to follow in places. There's also some backstory that hasn't been filled in - perhaps that will be covered in the rest of the issues. Those are the bad points.

On the positive side, the dialogue is good, and the characters seem real people. The artwork is nice, particularly the spacecraft, and the colours work well. The story is interesting, and does have a touch of Star Trek about it. I'm looking forward to finishing the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Punisher: Blood on the Moors (Marvel Graphic Novel, #70)]]> 154359 64 John Wagner 0871358549 Tony 3 graphic-novels, superhero 3.33 1991 Punisher: Blood on the Moors (Marvel Graphic Novel, #70)
author: John Wagner
name: Tony
average rating: 3.33
book published: 1991
rating: 3
read at: 2025/06/10
date added: 2025/06/09
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:

]]> Larson's Luck 8708970
Larson couldn't possibly have known what was going on in the engine room, yet he acted....]]> 10 Gerald Vance Tony 4 science-fiction-pulp 3.07 2010 Larson's Luck
author: Gerald Vance
name: Tony
average rating: 3.07
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/06/07
shelves: science-fiction-pulp
review:
This is a fun, pulp-style short story, reminiscent of Perry Rhodan and Asimov's Space Ranger series.
]]> Field Trip 12944323 0 Gene Hunter 3655289316 Tony 2 science-fiction 2.91 Field Trip
author: Gene Hunter
name: Tony
average rating: 2.91
book published:
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/06/07
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> Double Take 12944312 0 Richard Wilson 3655286163 Tony 2 science-fiction 2.55 2010 Double Take
author: Richard Wilson
name: Tony
average rating: 2.55
book published: 2010
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/06/04
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> Blind Spot 12944459 0 Bascom Jones 3655290063 Tony 3 science-fiction Short but sharp. 2.44 2010 Blind Spot
author: Bascom Jones
name: Tony
average rating: 2.44
book published: 2010
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/06/03
shelves: science-fiction
review:
Short but sharp.
]]> All Day Wednesday 22676433 28 Richard Olin Tony 3 science-fiction 3.33 2011 All Day Wednesday
author: Richard Olin
name: Tony
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/06/02
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> Twelve Times Zero 52268768 54 Howard Carleton Browne Tony 4
The story has themes that were a bit ahead of their time, but were explored more commonly later in the 50s and in the 60s - particularly humanity's violence and technology being a threat to peaceful galactic civilisations - the movie The Day the Earth Stood Still being a prime example.
]]> 3.43 1952 Twelve Times Zero
author: Howard Carleton Browne
name: Tony
average rating: 3.43
book published: 1952
rating: 4
read at: 2025/06/01
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves: bingo2025, crime, science-fiction
review:
Carleton Browne has written a very nice short story that is an interesting blend of crime fiction and science fiction. Written in the very early 1950s, the first half of the story reads like a pulp crime novel, with a tough, no-nonsense, detective investigating a double murder. It all seems pretty straight forward until strange things start to happen. It's a well-written story, although I'm not a big fan of the ending.

The story has themes that were a bit ahead of their time, but were explored more commonly later in the 50s and in the 60s - particularly humanity's violence and technology being a threat to peaceful galactic civilisations - the movie The Day the Earth Stood Still being a prime example.

]]> Typhon (Project Proteus #2) 43267745
After her brother goes missing during a saturation dive, submersible pilot Chloe Gietz heads out into the Arabian Sea on a desperate search and rescue mission. What she finds is a corporate cover-up to protect a concealed underwater habitat.

Typhon is a place of secrets that its owners want hidden from the outside world. But an experiment goes horrifically wrong, and a powerful, destructive organism is unleashed.

The once calm waters becomes a battleground for survival, as employees of a ruthless conglomerate will stop at nothing to cover their tracks, and a nightmarish creature that can both survive and hunt within the crushing pressure of the aquatic abyss awaits them all...

Don't miss this latest, pulse-pounding thriller by John Triptych, with new characters, nonstop action, and a more terrifying monster!

Project Proteus (each book is a self contained story and may be read separately):
Book 1- Lemuria
Book 2- Typhon]]> 364 John Triptych Tony 0 to-read 3.97 Typhon (Project Proteus #2)
author: John Triptych
name: Tony
average rating: 3.97
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/06/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Thy Name is Woman 22528560 26 Kenneth O'Hara 149977396X Tony 3 science-fiction 3.40 2014 Thy Name is Woman
author: Kenneth O'Hara
name: Tony
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/05/28
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This is a short story using a science fiction setting to examine gender roles, albeit gender roles of the 50s more than modern day gender roles. Some of the premises seemed a little forced to me - only women being physiologically capable of withstanding the rigours of space travel, but science having advanced to a level that allows transforming a man into an animal. At times the attitudes expressed can seem rather extreme, but there is a somewhat surprising level of acceptance of transsexuality, indeed, it plays a crucial role in the story.
]]> <![CDATA[The Mage's Academy (Legendary Dungeon Seed #1)]]> 90036741 Bond with monster girls.
Learn dark magic.
Fight and defeat raiders.
Become ... legendary.

Osman Spar is just a normal, everyday guy ...
But when he gets trapped in a fantasy world, he reincarnates as a dungeon lord.

Now, with the powers of both a hulking warrior and a cunning mage at his command, Osman must build a dungeon academy in which to train monster girl adventurers. But to do that he needs to learn dark magic, summon powerful minions, and fight and defeat as many dungeon raiders as possible.

If he fails, his soul will be lost forever.

But if he succeeds ... well, if he succeeds, he will become legendary.

Warning: This story is an action-packed portal fantasy adventure that includes graphic violence, LitRPG elements, mana cultivation, explicit scenes, and harem relationships.]]> 166 Marc Robert Tony 4 bingo2025, fantasy
Nothing really surprising here for readers who are familiar with the sub-genres of LitRPG and dungeon core, and Robert has a pleasant writing style that makes this easy to read. Trigger warning - there is some graphic sex.]]> 4.17 The Mage's Academy (Legendary Dungeon Seed #1)
author: Marc Robert
name: Tony
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/25
date added: 2025/05/25
shelves: bingo2025, fantasy
review:
This LitRPG book is the start of a series, and it's a pretty good start. LitRPG, as a genre, is best when it doesn't take itself too seriously, and Robert does well at maintaining a fairly light tone.

Nothing really surprising here for readers who are familiar with the sub-genres of LitRPG and dungeon core, and Robert has a pleasant writing style that makes this easy to read. Trigger warning - there is some graphic sex.
]]> <![CDATA[Afterlife with Archie, Vol. 2: Betty R.I.P.]]> 20600617
AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE: BETTY R.I.P. compiles the second storyline from the hit ongoing comic book horror series AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE.]]> 168 Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa 161988948X Tony 4 graphic-novels, horror 4.07 2018 Afterlife with Archie, Vol. 2: Betty R.I.P.
author: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
name: Tony
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/21
date added: 2025/05/21
shelves: graphic-novels, horror
review:

]]> Rama: The Omnibus 11113614 At first, only a few things are known about the celestial object that has arrived in the galaxy and has been dubbed Rama by the astronomers observing it.

It is a huge cylindrical object, weighing more than ten trillion tons. And it is hurtling through the solar system at inconceivable speed. Then a space probe confirms the unthinkable: Rama is no natural object. It is, incredibly, an interstellar spacecraft.

Space explorers and planet-bound scientists alike prepare for mankind's first encounter with alien intelligence. It will kindle their wildest dreams . . . and fan their darkest fears. For no one knows who the Ramans are or why they have come. And now the moment of rendezvous awaits - just behind a Raman airlock door.]]> 1332 Arthur C. Clarke 0575096861 Tony 0 to-read 4.08 1993 Rama: The Omnibus
author: Arthur C. Clarke
name: Tony
average rating: 4.08
book published: 1993
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[War Of The Animals (Book 1): The Shut Face Of Thunder]]> 198466692 War breaks out. This time, nature fights back...

A failed effort to weaponize animals awakens their intellects. The military responds by creating death camps to exterminate infected animals. Moon Shadow, an Arctic white wolf, unites with White Claw, a polar bear king, to form Animus Nor, the first animal republic, to negotiate peace. The uneasy peace is broken with the rise of Azaz, lord of the grizzly bears. Azaz attacks human settlements, considering humans an invasive species that wreaks havoc on bears and the environment. A world war breaks out as animals face humans and each other to see who will become the true apex species.

Will humanity win, or will nature triumph in the end?]]> 268 Jonathan Decoteau Tony 0 to-read 0.0 War Of The Animals (Book 1): The Shut Face Of Thunder
author: Jonathan Decoteau
name: Tony
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Original Adventures Reincarnated #6: The Temple of Elemental Evil]]> 59693383
Bandits have started to ride the roads again, and there are other ominous signs afoot. It is whispered that the demonic evil at the heart of the Temple was not truly conquered but merely imprisoned. Even now, agents of evil, malevolent beasts, and far worse creatures are conspiring to return the Temple to power and enslave the surrounding lands. Hommlet and the neighboring ruins may hold clues, but not everyone is to be trusted. Surely danger lies hidden in this idyllic region.

Sharpen your swords and axes. Purchase your iron rations and tinderboxes. And don’t forget at least one 10-foot pole. Great adventure awaits those that dare confront the Temple of Elemental Evil!

This book collection is an homage to the origins of an adventure that began decades ago with T1: The Village of Hommlet and T1-4: The Temple of Elemental Evil. Herein you will find high-quality scans from multiple printings of the original first edition adventure modules, plus commentary by gaming legends. Full fifth edition conversions of both adventure books are included, as well as brand new adventure material that adds new wilderness encounters, expands the Village of Nulb, fully details the evil Elemental Nodes, and provides fifth edition updates of many original magic items, monsters, and spells.

This is a fully playable mega-dungeon and mini-campaign—many hours of classic-style adventure await you! Designed to take characters from level 1 to level 7.]]> 732 E. Gary Gygax 1950783782 Tony 0 to-read 4.61 Original Adventures Reincarnated #6: The Temple of Elemental Evil
author: E. Gary Gygax
name: Tony
average rating: 4.61
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[China (The Flense #1; The Flense Serial #1-3)]]> 27212286 Contracted by an apocalypse prepper group to investigate a series of seemingly disconnected global tragedies, a young freelance medical reporter, Angelique de l'Enfantine, uncovers a disturbing pattern: each event is preceded by the sudden spread of a mysterious ailment and is followed by the appearance of a man dressed in black and silver who witnesses claim is the devil himself. Are the tragedies harbingers of an impending biblical catastrophe or practice runs of a fanatical organization bent on global annihilation?
With each event more grisly than the last and the risk to her life growing, Angel must ask herself if her sponsors are using her to advance their own paranoid agenda.]]> 362 Saul W. Tanpepper Tony 0 to-read 4.06 2015 China (The Flense #1; The Flense Serial #1-3)
author: Saul W. Tanpepper
name: Tony
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Aztec Odyssey: Historical Action Adventure (Nick LaBounty Series Book 1)]]> 56334592
The year is 1521, and Tenochtitlán burns. Wracked by plague and war, the majestic Aztec empire begins to crumble. As their beloved capital city falls to the ruthless Spaniards and hordes of vengeful tribes, the Aztecs make a last-ditch attempt to secretly save their heritage before it’s lost to the sands of time forever.

Meanwhile in the modern day, a string of high-profile robberies lays waste to archaeological sites and museums across Mesoamerica, overshadowed by a brewing nationalistic fervor which threatens to topple already fragile countries. Rumors say the artifacts hold the secret to a legendary myth—The Seven Cities of Cibola—which has concealed countless treasures for centuries.

Faced with unraveling the mysteries of both the present and the past, aspiring archaeologist Nick LaBounty embarks on a dangerous mission to solve a long-held family mystery and discover the truth behind the stolen artifacts.

He soon finds his fate irreversibly entangled with a civilization from over five hundred years ago. But time is running out, and the future of both a fabulous treasure—and all Central America—teeters precariously in the balance.]]> 426 Jay C. LaBarge Tony 0 to-read 4.52 2020 Aztec Odyssey: Historical Action Adventure (Nick LaBounty Series Book 1)
author: Jay C. LaBarge
name: Tony
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary, together with Sellic Spell]]> 21528730 Beowulf by J.R.R. Tolkien was an early work, very distinctive in its mode, completed in 1926: he returned to it later to make hasty corrections, but seems never to have considered its publication.

This edition is twofold, for there exists an illuminating commentary on the text of the poem by the translator himself, in the written form of a series of lectures given at Oxford in the 1930s; and from these lectures a substantial selection has been made, to form also a commentary on the translation in this book.

From his creative attention to detail in these lectures there arises a sense of the immediacy and clarity of his vision. It is as if he entered into the imagined past: standing beside Beowulf and his men shaking out their mail-shirts as they beached their ship on the coast of Denmark, listening to the rising anger of Beowulf at the taunting of Unferth, or looking up in amazement at Grendel’s terrible hand set under the roof of Heorot.

But the commentary in this book includes also much from those lectures in which, while always anchored in the text, he expressed his wider perceptions. He looks closely at the dragon that would slay Beowulf "snuffling in baffled rage and injured greed when he discovers the theft of the cup"; but he rebuts the notion that this is "a mere treasure story", "just another dragon tale". He turns to the lines that tell of the burying of the golden things long ago, and observes that it is "the feeling for the treasure itself, this sad history" that raises it to another level. "The whole thing is sombre, tragic, sinister, curiously real. The ‘treasure� is not just some lucky wealth that will enable the finder to have a good time, or marry the princess. It is laden with history, leading back into the dark heathen ages beyond the memory of song, but not beyond the reach of imagination."

Sellic spell, a "marvellous tale", is a story written by Tolkien suggesting what might have been the form and style of an Old English folk-tale of Beowulf, in which there was no association with the "historical legends" of the Northern kingdoms.]]> 439 Unknown 0007590067 Tony 0 to-read 3.95 2014 Beowulf: A Translation and Commentary, together with Sellic Spell
author: Unknown
name: Tony
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Hard Blokes Of Sparta: The Relic In The Dungeon (Storystream Shorts Book 8)]]> 55748751 Dave and his friends are having a bad day. Not only are they having to come to terms with the fact they’re in a weird (and very un-Spartan) magical world, but if no one hires them soon, then it won’t be long before they have to embark on a short and boring career in death by starvation.But when a wizard, an elf, and a dwarf finally agree to hire the Spartans for a spot of monster-infested-dungeon-clearing, it soon becomes evident that the Spartans are going to have to deal with things much more magical and annoying than even they had anticipated.Funny and fast paced, strange and fantastical, join the Hard Blokes as they find out why the hell anyone would go to the trouble of keeping an ancient and mysterious relic in a dungeon, anyway…]]> 87 Jamie Brindle Tony 4 bingo2025, fantasy
The story itself was quite readable, unanswered questions aside, and I found it to be funny in places, although never laugh out loud funny. It is a good parody of a lot of D&D-style adventures.]]> 3.90 The Hard Blokes Of Sparta: The Relic In The Dungeon (Storystream Shorts Book 8)
author: Jamie Brindle
name: Tony
average rating: 3.90
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/20
date added: 2025/05/19
shelves: bingo2025, fantasy
review:
So, the mistake I made with this book was reading it as the first book in the series. It's the prequel to the Hard Blokes of Sparta series, but was written after The Princess in the Tower, and I believe that book does a lot of the world-building. The author seems to assume that either (a) readers will have already read The Princess in the Tower, because he doesn't repeat a lot of the info from that book; or (b) most readers will be able to follow along anyway - which, in my case, was true. I've read a few LitRPG books, and the questions as to how the Hard Blokes got into the situation they were in were pretty easy to make assumptions about. And the Kindle version does include a sample of The Princess in the Tower, which may answer those questions, although I didn't read it, as I was already intending to read the book.

The story itself was quite readable, unanswered questions aside, and I found it to be funny in places, although never laugh out loud funny. It is a good parody of a lot of D&D-style adventures.
]]> <![CDATA[The Princess In The Tower (The Hard Blokes Of Sparta #1)]]> 55388219
Now they have one last chance: rescue a princess from a tower, or fail to make their rent, and face eviction and probably involuntary enrolment in a less-than-pleasant brutal-fighting-pit scenario.

But how can a man - even a spartan - compete with orcs and goblins, chimeras and cockatrice?

Dave might have an idea, though he doesn’t think his friends will like it�

This is the first of three stand-alone but linked comic fantasy novellas charting the fortunes of The Hard Blokes of Sparta.]]> Jamie Brindle Tony 0 to-read 4.00 The Princess In The Tower (The Hard Blokes Of Sparta #1)
author: Jamie Brindle
name: Tony
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/19
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Through the Looking-Glass 8137463 208 Lewis Carroll Tony 5 fantasy 4.15 1871 Through the Looking-Glass
author: Lewis Carroll
name: Tony
average rating: 4.15
book published: 1871
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/17
date added: 2025/05/17
shelves: fantasy
review:

]]> Alice In Wonderland 3190757 287 Lewis Carroll 1405419547 Tony 5 bingo2025, fantasy
Both these stories are classics of children's literature, but are a pleasure to read no matter the age of the reader.]]> 4.20 1865 Alice In Wonderland
author: Lewis Carroll
name: Tony
average rating: 4.20
book published: 1865
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/17
date added: 2025/05/17
shelves: bingo2025, fantasy
review:
This book contains both Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. The book is beautifully illustrated throughout.

Both these stories are classics of children's literature, but are a pleasure to read no matter the age of the reader.
]]> <![CDATA[Afterlife with Archie, Vol. 1: Escape from Riverdale]]> 18339901
Collects Afterlife with Archie #1-5]]> 160 Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa 1619889080 Tony 4 graphic-novels, horror 4.05 2014 Afterlife with Archie, Vol. 1: Escape from Riverdale
author: Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
name: Tony
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/16
date added: 2025/05/16
shelves: graphic-novels, horror
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Avengers: Death Trap, The Vault]]> 760035 63 Danny Fingeroth 0871358107 Tony 4 graphic-novels, superhero 3.02 1991 Avengers: Death Trap, The Vault
author: Danny Fingeroth
name: Tony
average rating: 3.02
book published: 1991
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/14
date added: 2025/05/13
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:

]]> Shatter the Wall 43736282 25 Sydney J. van Scyoc Tony 4 dystopian 3.17 Shatter the Wall
author: Sydney J. van Scyoc
name: Tony
average rating: 3.17
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/05/13
shelves: dystopian
review:
A somewhat chilling story about humanity ending with a whimper, not a bang. As others have stated, this would have been a good Twilight Zone episode.
]]> A Fall of Glass 32703390 Temperature, 59; humidity, 47%;
occasional light showers—but of what?]]> 22 Stan Lee Tony 3 science-fiction 2.38 A Fall of Glass
author: Stan Lee
name: Tony
average rating: 2.38
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/05/13
shelves: science-fiction
review:
There are some good ideas here, but a lot of unanswered questions.
]]> Jamieson 29929340 24 Bill Doede 1515405826 Tony 4 science-fiction 3.50 Jamieson
author: Bill Doede
name: Tony
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/05/11
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This was an interesting story, and covered a few classic themes of 1950s science fiction within its 20 pages - the primary one being humanity's fear of difference. While I did enjoy it, it kept reminding me of its age by the references to Bangkok being in Siam.
]]> Always a Qurono 30086907 20 Jim Harmon 1682997049 Tony 2 science-fiction 2.20 Always a Qurono
author: Jim Harmon
name: Tony
average rating: 2.20
book published:
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/05/09
shelves: science-fiction
review:
An odd story about a captain marooned by his rebellious crew. Not particularly wee-written and not very interesting.
]]> The Celestial Hammerlock 55255742 Donald Colvin Tony 3 science-fiction 3.38 The Celestial Hammerlock
author: Donald Colvin
name: Tony
average rating: 3.38
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/05/09
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> Cowboys & Aliens 12315428 371 Joan D. Vinge 1447202112 Tony 4
The book is well-written - expected from Vinge - and for much of the first part of the book it does read pretty much like a western. It's a good blending of the two genres and provides plenty of action. It was fun to read.]]> 3.00 2011 Cowboys & Aliens
author: Joan D. Vinge
name: Tony
average rating: 3.00
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/08
date added: 2025/05/08
shelves: bingo2025, historical-fiction, science-fiction
review:
I saw the film when it came out in 2011 and I enjoyed it, but I don't remember a lot of the details, so I can't really judge how accurate an adaptation this is. I think it does add more characterisation than was in the film.

The book is well-written - expected from Vinge - and for much of the first part of the book it does read pretty much like a western. It's a good blending of the two genres and provides plenty of action. It was fun to read.
]]> License To Steal 39943931 10 Louis Newman Tony 3 science-fiction 2.86 1959 License To Steal
author: Louis Newman
name: Tony
average rating: 2.86
book published: 1959
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/05/06
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> An Elephant For The Prinkip 55251683 LJ Stecher Tony 4 science-fiction 3.70 An Elephant For The Prinkip
author: LJ Stecher
name: Tony
average rating: 3.70
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/05/05
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This was a light-hearted, fun tale about the difficulties of hauling cargo across the galaxy. It borders on being hard sci-fi and clearly wasn't read by the writers of Star Trek IV - A Voyage Home
]]> The Drug 40238090 C.C. MacApp Tony 3 science-fiction 2.82 The Drug
author: C.C. MacApp
name: Tony
average rating: 2.82
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/05/04
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> Doorstep 31311585 15 Keith Laumer Tony 3 science-fiction 3.67 Doorstep
author: Keith Laumer
name: Tony
average rating: 3.67
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/05/02
shelves: science-fiction
review:
A nice, but very short story about the human (in general) and military (in particular) tendency to react badly to new situations.
]]> Prime Difference 29516763 24 Alan E. Nourse 1515405168 Tony 2 science-fiction 3.35 Prime Difference
author: Alan E. Nourse
name: Tony
average rating: 3.35
book published:
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/05/01
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This short story was ok - Alan Nourse is pretty consistent - but it contains a level of misogyny that, while not uncommon in the 1950s, is pretty jarring today.
]]> Psychotennis, Anyone? 29748423
A short story from the pages of Galaxy Science Fiction Magazine, available online at Project Gutenberg.]]> Lloyd Williams Tony 3 science-fiction 1.89 1951 Psychotennis, Anyone?
author: Lloyd Williams
name: Tony
average rating: 1.89
book published: 1951
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/04/30
shelves: science-fiction
review:
Interesting premise and the story starts well, but the ending is pretty weak.
]]> Syndrome Johnny 55249457 to one man. But was he fiend ... or savior?]]> Charles Dye Tony 2 science-fiction 2.70 1951 Syndrome Johnny
author: Charles Dye
name: Tony
average rating: 2.70
book published: 1951
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This was an interesting idea, but I didn't think it was well executed.
]]> Operation Distress 35896831 Lester del Rey Tony 4 science-fiction 3.56 1951 Operation Distress
author: Lester del Rey
name: Tony
average rating: 3.56
book published: 1951
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/04/27
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This is a fun short story that is pretty typical of a lot of the lighter SF short stories written in the 50s and 60s.
]]> Citizen Jell 55248406 Michael Shaara Tony 4 science-fiction 3.50 Citizen Jell
author: Michael Shaara
name: Tony
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: science-fiction
review:
A nice story. No conflict, just decisions about what making the right moral choice is.
]]> <![CDATA[Fight for Life and Death (Apocalypse Paused, #1)]]> 42935209 WHEREVER YOU LOOK, LIFE AND DEATH STARE YOU IN THE FACE.

Born from the fertile imagination of bestselling author Michael Anderle

Fountain of Youth, or Valley of Death?

One missile fired at Earth. One political decision could change the future of mankind when apocalypse happened.

Fighting hard, multiple countries band together to successfully pause the apocalypse.

Now, we have the future of mankind growing in the Sahara Desert, and we need hard, smart people to pull out the secrets.

So what did the military want withDr. Christopher Lin?

By the time his helicopter ride was on the ground, he wasn't a ZOO virgin any longer.

The government needs the best of the best military and scientific minds working out how to pull the secrets from the ZOO, while keeping the deadly fauna and flora in check.

There is one major problem, the ZOO is transforming too quickly, and they didn't even have the basic information from the Bio-Domes on what went wrong.

First Lieutenant Doctor Emma Kemp needed another brain to help her get inside the ZOO and retrieve vital information for the world.

Only one small problem, the ZOO doesn't want to give up its secrets.

ARE YOU READY TO ENTER THE ZOO?

----

JoinDr. Christopher Lin as he learns about the ZOO, how to stay alive and the opportunities that being a part of the ZOO has brought humanity.

The future is looking interesting and humorous,except for the death part.

Go up and click on the 'Read Now' button and enter the ZOO.



FIRST THREE TITLES in APOCALYPSE PAUSED

BOOK 01 - FIGHT FOR LIFE AND DEATH

BOOK 02 - GET RICH OR DIE TRYING

BOOK 03 - BACKSTABBING LITTLE ASSETS


FIRST THREE TITLES in BIRTH OF HEAVY METAL

BOOK 01 - HE WAS NOT PREPARED

BOOK 02 - SHE IS HIS WITNESS

BOOK 03 - BIG ASSED GLOBAL KEGGER


FIRST FOUR TITLES in SOLDIERS OF FORTUNE AND FAME

BOOK 01 - NOBODY'S FOOL

BOOK 02 - NOBODY LIVES FOREVER

BOOK 03 - NOBODY DRINKS THAT MUCH

BOOK 04 - NOBODY REMEMBERS BUT US


]]> 116 Michael Todd Tony 4 bingo2025, science-fiction
The basic premise is that aliens are attempting to terraform Earth remotely by using a missile-delivered goop that will transform Earth into a much hotter and wetter place - similar to conditions during the time of the dinosaurs. Not everything goes right with the aliens' plan, not everything goes right with the humans' response and the end result is that there is a patch of alien jungle in the middle of the Sahara desert - the ZOO. All of this is in the first 5 pages of the book.

The rest of the novel is the story of a military expedition (with one civilian scientist) to penetrate the jungle and recover the notes of the original scientific team. It has most of the elements of a military SF novel - almost entirely military characters, fast-paced, plenty of brutal combat, not a huge amount of character development - but it didn't really feel like a military SF novel to me.

This was a fun read, and it's the start of a big series - there are over 50 books in the ZOO reading list, with another dozen (so far) set 10,000 years in the future - but this one, at least, wraps up its plotlines well enough that it doesn't feel like the story is incomplete. And it has plenty of pop culture references, particularly for Jackie Chan fans.]]> 4.36 Fight for Life and Death (Apocalypse Paused, #1)
author: Michael Todd
name: Tony
average rating: 4.36
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/25
date added: 2025/04/25
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
This is the start of one of more than half-a-dozen book series set in this universe and, although not the first published (the first book in the Heavy Metal series was released a week earlier), this is the best one to start with. There is a suggested reading order on the LMBPN website. The next thing to note is that, despite Amazon listing the suggested reading age as 16-18, this is not YA.

The basic premise is that aliens are attempting to terraform Earth remotely by using a missile-delivered goop that will transform Earth into a much hotter and wetter place - similar to conditions during the time of the dinosaurs. Not everything goes right with the aliens' plan, not everything goes right with the humans' response and the end result is that there is a patch of alien jungle in the middle of the Sahara desert - the ZOO. All of this is in the first 5 pages of the book.

The rest of the novel is the story of a military expedition (with one civilian scientist) to penetrate the jungle and recover the notes of the original scientific team. It has most of the elements of a military SF novel - almost entirely military characters, fast-paced, plenty of brutal combat, not a huge amount of character development - but it didn't really feel like a military SF novel to me.

This was a fun read, and it's the start of a big series - there are over 50 books in the ZOO reading list, with another dozen (so far) set 10,000 years in the future - but this one, at least, wraps up its plotlines well enough that it doesn't feel like the story is incomplete. And it has plenty of pop culture references, particularly for Jackie Chan fans.
]]> Masks Volume 1 29911516
Before Superheroes, there were Masks! The Shadow. The Green Hornet and Kato. The Spider. In 1938, these masked vigilantes operated outside the law, working independently to strike fear into the hearts of evildoers. But when the corrupt politicians of the Justice Party transform New York into a fascist state run by mobsters, when an oppressive regime grants jack-booted stormtroopers free rein to imprison, extort, and execute the innocent, when the law itself becomes unjust -- justice must be served by outlaws! Outnumbered and outgunned, the legendary vigilantes emerge from the shadows to fight, joined by Zorro, the Green Lama, Miss Fury, Black Terror, and the Black Bat! Nine renowned pulp heroes, brought together for the first time in an epic conflict of Law vs. Justice!]]> 266 Chris Roberson Tony 4 graphic-novels, superhero
The plot is very true to its pulp roots (and disturbingly similar to current US politics) - the Justice Party gets elected in New York and reveals itself to be a fascist party with designs to extend their rule over the whole country. Certainly not the most original plot, but that's not what the pulps were expected to provide.

The artwork is top notch throughout the graphic novel, and there are plenty of extras provided in the collection - a cover gallery, artist's sketches, a script of the first issue.

If you like the adventures of the pulp and Golden Age eras, this is certainly worth a read.]]> 3.93 2011 Masks Volume 1
author: Chris Roberson
name: Tony
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/23
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:
This graphic novel collects the full 8 issues of the Masks series from Dynamite Comics that was released in 2012-13. Dynamite has released a number of comics that revive some of the masked adventurers of the pulp days - from the reasonably well-known - such as The Shadow, Green Hornet and Kato, Zorro - to the less known - The Spider, Black Bat, Black Terror, Miss Fury, Green Lama.

The plot is very true to its pulp roots (and disturbingly similar to current US politics) - the Justice Party gets elected in New York and reveals itself to be a fascist party with designs to extend their rule over the whole country. Certainly not the most original plot, but that's not what the pulps were expected to provide.

The artwork is top notch throughout the graphic novel, and there are plenty of extras provided in the collection - a cover gallery, artist's sketches, a script of the first issue.

If you like the adventures of the pulp and Golden Age eras, this is certainly worth a read.
]]> <![CDATA[Ghost Rider/Wolverine/Punisher: Hearts of Darkness]]> 34200870
Three of Marvel's most hardcore heroes take on Blackheart, demonic son of Mephisto! When Danny Ketch, Logan and Frank Castle are lured to the Mid-West town of Christ's Crown, they are offered a devilish deal: kill the king of hell, and the answers to secrets that plague them will be revealed! But with the life of a local girl in the balance, can Ghost Rider, Wolverine and the Punisher resist Blackheart's pact? As the demon's design unfolds, and his deadly Corrupt overrun the town, all hope lies with the vigilante trio. Will they be overcome by the darkness in their hearts, or will it prove to be their greatest source of strength?]]> 102 Howard Mackie 1302496166 Tony 3 graphic-novels, superhero 3.50 1991 Ghost Rider/Wolverine/Punisher: Hearts of Darkness
author: Howard Mackie
name: Tony
average rating: 3.50
book published: 1991
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/23
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:

]]> Touch 25038154
Now Kepler is looking out through the eyes of the killer himself, staring down at a broken and ruined body lying in the dirt of the alley.

Instead of dying, Kepler has gained the ability to roam from one body to another, to jump into another person’s skin and see through their eyes, live their life � be it for a few minutes, a few months or a lifetime.

Kepler means these host bodies no harm � and even comes to cherish them intimately like lovers. But when one host, Josephine Cebula, is brutally assassinated, Kepler embarks on a mission to seek the truth � and avenge Josephine’s death.]]> 427 Claire North 0356504581 Tony 4 bingo2025, science-fiction
The protagonist is a "ghost", a lifeform that can only live within a host body, and this possession leaves the host's psyche completely suppressed - they have no memory of anything their body does while possessed, and no sense of time passing - much like being under general anaesthetic.

This novel is basically a thriller, with the protagonist trying to determine why one of his/her host bodies was murdered. As the story progresses, flashbacks provide background the protagonist - whose actual name is never revealed, but goes by the name of Kepler during much of the novel.

The pacing is fast, there is a lot more character development than is usual in a thriller, and North has clearly give a great deal of thought to the issues that may affect someone who had this asbility.

Definitely worth reading.]]> 3.66 2015 Touch
author: Claire North
name: Tony
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/22
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
Claire North's first book (as Claire North) - The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August - was a well written and unusual story. This, her next book, is equally well written, and perhaps even more unusual.

The protagonist is a "ghost", a lifeform that can only live within a host body, and this possession leaves the host's psyche completely suppressed - they have no memory of anything their body does while possessed, and no sense of time passing - much like being under general anaesthetic.

This novel is basically a thriller, with the protagonist trying to determine why one of his/her host bodies was murdered. As the story progresses, flashbacks provide background the protagonist - whose actual name is never revealed, but goes by the name of Kepler during much of the novel.

The pacing is fast, there is a lot more character development than is usual in a thriller, and North has clearly give a great deal of thought to the issues that may affect someone who had this asbility.

Definitely worth reading.
]]> Hunt the Hunter 33820471 23 Kris Neville Tony 2 science-fiction 2.78 Hunt the Hunter
author: Kris Neville
name: Tony
average rating: 2.78
book published:
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This is a short story that starts well, and looks to be developing an interesting story, and then it just ends. The resolution is essentially left up to the reader.
]]> <![CDATA[A Little Journey (The Galaxy Project)]]> 18902372
About the Author: Ray Douglas Bradbury (b. 1920) entered science fiction as a teenage Los Angeles fan frantic to sell John W. Campbell and become a major science fiction writer; although he eventually sold Campbell two very short stories in the early �40s, his career took a different direction, first through the second- and third-level science fiction magazines (PLANET, STARTLING STORIES) and then to the literary quarterlies and women’s magazines (HARPER’S BAZAAR, CHARM) where his distinctive stylistic elegance led him to the Best American Short Stories and O. Henry Prize anthologies. He was regarded with the somewhat similar lyrical short story writer Truman Capote as among the most promising of the emerging generation. With THE MARTIAN CHRONICLES he became famous both inside and outside science fiction; subsequent collections (THE ILLUSTRATED MAN, DANDELION WINE) advanced his reputation. He wrote the screenplay for John Huston’s film adaptation of MOBY DICK (1953), and in the decades to follow hundreds of short stories and novels (A MEDICINE FOR MELANCHOLY), which cemented his reputation. He was awarded a Medal in Literature by George W. Bush in 2004.

About The Galaxy Project: Horace Gold led GALAXY magazine from its first issue dated October 1950 to science fiction’s most admired, widely circulated and influential magazine throughout its initial decade. Its legendary importance came from publication of full length novels, novellas and novelettes. GALAXY published nearly every giant in the science fiction field.

The Galaxy Project is a selection of the best of GALAXY with new forewords by some of today’s best science fiction writers. The initial selections in alphabetical order include work by Ray Bradbury, Frederic Brown, Lester del Rey, Robert A. Heinlein, Damon Knight, C. M. Kornbluth, Walter M. Miller, Jr., Frederik Pohl, Robert Sheckley, Robert Silverberg, William Tenn (Phillip Klass) and Kurt Vonnegut with new Forewords by Paul di Filippo, David Drake, John Lutz, Barry Malzberg and Robert Silverberg. The Galaxy Project is committed to publishing new work in the spirit GALAXY magazine and its founding editor Horace Gold.]]> 21 Ray Bradbury Tony 4 science-fiction 3.55 2011 A Little Journey (The Galaxy Project)
author: Ray Bradbury
name: Tony
average rating: 3.55
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> What is POSAT? 55233098 Phyllis Sterling-Smith Tony 3 science-fiction 3.12 What is POSAT?
author: Phyllis Sterling-Smith
name: Tony
average rating: 3.12
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/04/19
shelves: science-fiction
review:
An interesting story about secret societies, written in the early 1950s. It reminded me in places of some of Heinlein's short stories.
]]> With These Hands 19168633 33 C.M. Kornbluth 0795321554 Tony 3 science-fiction 3.53 2011 With These Hands
author: C.M. Kornbluth
name: Tony
average rating: 3.53
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/04/16
shelves: science-fiction
review:
An interesting story that starts more strongly than it finishes. This story seems particularly relevant to today as it examines the morality of AI-created art as opposed to artist-created art.
]]> Aloys 34470361 R.A. Lafferty Tony 2 science-fiction 3.00 1961 Aloys
author: R.A. Lafferty
name: Tony
average rating: 3.00
book published: 1961
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/04/15
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> Star Trek vs. Transformers 41646870 Four decades in the making, it's the crossover that fans have demanded! Kirk, Spock, and Autobots! Decepticons and Klingons! Optimus Prime and the Prime Directive!

When Kirk, Spock, and the entire crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise investigate problems at a remote mine, they're met with an explosive battle between powerful warriors who change into vehicles from the 20th century! As the battle between the Autobots and Decepticons rages, it's up to Kirk to decide--does he violate the Prime Directive and interfere in a war that's raged for millennia? And how will the Klingons complicate the issue? It's cartoony fun between two of the most popular science fiction franchises in the world!

Transformers Hall of Famer John Barber and the world's most prolific Star Trek comics writer, Mike Johnson, team up with artist Philip Murphy (Powerpuff Girls) to tell an adventure that could only appear in comics!

(TM), (R), & (c) 2018 CBS Studios, Inc. STAR TREK and related marks and logos are trademarks of CBS Studios, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
TRANSFORMERS and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. (c) 2018 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved. Licensed by Hasbro.]]> 120 John Barber 1684054362 Tony 2
Anyway, I didn't really get into this. I thought the story was pretty silly, but I did enjoy the artwork - it was a good match for the animated series art.]]> 3.54 2019 Star Trek vs. Transformers
author: John Barber
name: Tony
average rating: 3.54
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/15
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves: graphic-novels, science-fiction
review:
This crossover uses Star Trek: The Animated Series as its basis rather than the original series - M'Ress and Arex from the animated series feature in this comic. I am a huge Star Trek fan and I enjoyed the animated series, but I was never a big fan of Transformers - I never understood why the Decepticons got to change into the cool stuff - fighter jets, etc - while the Autobots could only change into cars and trucks. And, as a 60s kid, I wasn't really the target audience for Transformers.

Anyway, I didn't really get into this. I thought the story was pretty silly, but I did enjoy the artwork - it was a good match for the animated series art.
]]> Cost of Living 9823091
If easy payment plans were
to be really efficient, patrons'
lifetimes had to be extended!]]> 26 Robert Sheckley Tony 4 science-fiction 3.73 1952 Cost of Living
author: Robert Sheckley
name: Tony
average rating: 3.73
book published: 1952
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/04/12
shelves: science-fiction
review:
A good short story written 70 years ago and yet is pretty accurate in its description of modern consumer culture. It's also quite dystopian - in the way that Brave New World was dystopian - and provides a subtle warning against unchecked capitalism. It should have been longer.
]]> Dead World 53464287
Yuan Saltario started it. He was serving in my Company and he was one of them. A Menelaus XII-5 "unstable," and don't ever call that damned little planet by its number if you meet one of them. They call it Nova-Maurania. But you won't meet one of them. Or maybe you will, maybe they did make it. I like to think they did.

There were a lot of them in the Companies in 3078. Restless men. The Companies were the logical place for them. We're still classified anti-social-B-6, too. Every year it's harder to get recruits, but we still have to be careful who we take in. We took Yuan Saltario. There was something about him from the very start.]]> 30 Jack Douglas Tony 4 science-fiction-military
This story focuses on one of the Companies, and what happens when they are faced with a difficult ethical choice. This reminded me of the Dorsai series - although I know that was written about a decade later.]]> 3.75 1961 Dead World
author: Jack Douglas
name: Tony
average rating: 3.75
book published: 1961
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/04/12
shelves: science-fiction-military
review:
This was an enjoyable short story. Galaxies are ruled by a galactic council, and there are no military forces - except the Companies. These are mercenary groups that fight under contract, fighting alongside a different Company in one conflict, and against them in another.

This story focuses on one of the Companies, and what happens when they are faced with a difficult ethical choice. This reminded me of the Dorsai series - although I know that was written about a decade later.
]]> The Kat Trap 7841484 In this sexy, raw debut novel, a vivacious young murderess seduces her unsuspecting victims to their own deaths. . . .

Katrina is a self-proclaimed hood goddess. With her razor-sharp attitude, alluring charm, and exotic beauty, she is willing to do whatever it takes to climb—or kill—her way out of the hood. With two bodies already on her hands by the age of twenty, she gets the opportunity of a lifetime when a mysterious man invites her to be the first female killer on his multimillion-dollar team of professional assassins.

Kat tempts her victims with her irresistible charm, but she cannot resist the rush that satisfies her hungry libido with each murder and makes her crave more and more power. Disturbingly witty and devilishly enticing, The Kat Trap lures readers into a deliciously cutthroat criminal world of money, glamour, and ultimate self-destruction.

]]> 426 Cairo 1593092296 Tony 0 to-read 4.45 2009 The Kat Trap
author: Cairo
name: Tony
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Death Wish 45882371
Compared with a spaceship in distress, going to hell in a handbasket is roomy and slow!

Opinions on Sheckley's work
"Robert Sheckley: the best short-story writer the field has produced." � Alan Dean Foster
"I had no idea the competition was so terrifyingly good." � Douglas Adams
"Sheckley at his best is Voltaire and Soda." � Brian W. Aldiss
"Probably the best short-story writer during the 50s to the mid-1960s working in any field." � Neil Gaiman
"Always he crackles with ideas." � Kingsley Amis
"[Robert Sheckley is] witty and ingenious... a draught of pure Voltaire and tonic." � J. G. Ballard

Contents
1
THE space freighter Queen Dierdre was a great,
2
HIS instructions read true. And yet he sensed something wrong.
3
SOMERS activated the engines. Acceleration pressed the three men back into their couches,
4
RAJCIK smiled, a courageous,
5
SOMERS frowned at the engineer.
6
THERE was a confusion of voices from the other end.
7
THEY stared at him in vacant astonishment.
8
"I'M A pretty morbid fellow," Rajcik said carelessly.
9
A LIGHT on the computer's panel was flashing green.
10
SOMERS said, "You figured a few thousand years to return to the Solar System, Rajcik? Well,
Robert Sheckley
Biography
Works
Film and TV adaptations
Opinions on Sheckley's work
Bibliography
Science fiction and fantasy

My Editor Page :


Other book please search "lovelyporch" or "lovely porch"

Thank you.
]]> 44 Robert Sheckley Tony 2 science-fiction 3.17 1956 Death Wish
author: Robert Sheckley
name: Tony
average rating: 3.17
book published: 1956
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2025/04/10
shelves: science-fiction
review:
Very short story (10 pages). Not terrible, but not very good and pretty forgettable. Author is actually Ned Lang, not Robert Sheckley - I expect this points to a collection of short stories, and Sheckley is the author of the main one.
]]> Junior 18934815 10 Robert Abernathy Tony 3 science-fiction 2.80 1956 Junior
author: Robert Abernathy
name: Tony
average rating: 2.80
book published: 1956
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/04/09
shelves: science-fiction
review:
A very short story about some alien undersea creatures. Not terrible, not great, feels dated.
]]> Meeting of the Minds 29985808 Galaxy magazine.]]> 50 Robert Sheckley Tony 5 science-fiction 3.61 1960 Meeting of the Minds
author: Robert Sheckley
name: Tony
average rating: 3.61
book published: 1960
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/04/08
shelves: science-fiction
review:
A very enjoyable short story combining sci-fi and horror. It explores similar themes to Invasion of the Body Snatchers, although with a less sinister justification. In this story, an alien is trying to fulfil its destiny but creating a collective where all life forms retain their own body but are connected mentally.
]]> <![CDATA[Apocalypse Paused Boxed Set One (Books 1-4)]]> 43670707 WHEREVER YOU LOOK, LIFE AND DEATH STARE YOU IN THE FACE.

Born from the fertile imagination of bestselling author Michael Anderle

Read the first four books in the bestselling Apocalypse Paused series at a discounted bundle price!

Fight for Life and Death

Fountain of Youth, or Valley of Death?

One missile fired at Earth. One political decision could change the future of mankind when apocalypse happened.

Fighting hard, multiple countries band together to successfullypausethe apocalypse.

Now, we have the future of mankind growing in the Sahara Desert, and we need hard, smart people to pull out the secrets.

So what did the military want withDr. Christopher Lin?

By the time his helicopter ride was on the ground, he wasn't a ZOO virgin any longer.

The government needs the best of the best military and scientific minds working out how to pull the secrets from the ZOO, while keeping the deadly fauna and flora in check.

There is one major problem, the ZOO is transforming too quickly, and they didn't even have the basic information from the Bio-Domes on what went wrong.

Get Rich Or Die Trying

A new species of Death walking?

Dr. Christopher Lin works out a possible solution to the phantom Chimera which is slowly tearing down Wall 01. A wall which protects humanity from that which isinsidetheZOO.

He has the perfect solution and volunteers to head a party into the ZOO to kill the shadowy creature, before it grounds down the U.S. Section of Wall 01.

The only problem? The "Boss" approves the mission, with a few minor changes Chris wasn't expecting.

By the time he recognizes the change in plans, it's too late to stop the mission.

The government needs the best of the best military and scientific minds working out how to pull the secrets from the ZOO, while keeping the deadly fauna and flora in check.

Big Assed Global Kegger

When there is money, there are people trying to keep it all to themselves. Can a person survive not only the ZOO, but people hoping they will die?

Dr. Christopher Lin has to go into the ZOO a third time, but will it be the last?

He has been played by the one person he was hoping to save.

Sometimes, the ZOO is too much for one man to handle. Even with a team, it is highly questionable if the unsaved care to be enlightened.

By the time Chris figures out the true danger, he has to make a decision that will change his future.

In the end, will Chris choose to save his friend? Will the potential sacrifice be worth it?

Ambassadors and Scorpions

What will it take to keep a good man down?

Wallace has received orders, but can they be serious?

Other governments want in on the action in the Sahara.

Sometimes, the ZOO is too much for just a few countries to control.

]]> 571 Michael Todd Tony 0 currently-reading 4.49 Apocalypse Paused Boxed Set One (Books 1-4)
author: Michael Todd
name: Tony
average rating: 4.49
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> Sentry of the Sky 32908448 63 Evelyn E. Smith Tony 4 science-fiction 3.56 1961 Sentry of the Sky
author: Evelyn E. Smith
name: Tony
average rating: 3.56
book published: 1961
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This is an interesting novella from Evelyn Smith, exploring the theme of being an outsider. While it seemed to be quite predictable for much of the story, the author was indulging in some misdirection, and I didn't see the ultimate resolution coming.
]]> Dracula Unbound 6062527 199 Brian W. Aldiss 0246137738 Tony 3 bingo2025, science-fiction 2.76 1991 Dracula Unbound
author: Brian W. Aldiss
name: Tony
average rating: 2.76
book published: 1991
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/05
date added: 2025/04/05
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
This novel is Aldiss retelling, or rather reimagining, Stoker's Dracula. It is a pretty big change to change a gothic novel into a science fiction setting. Aldiss does a pretty good job, although the ending gets a little convoluted - as can happen with time travel.
]]> Song in a Minor Key 12231989
This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery.]]> 3 C.L. Moore Tony 3 science-fiction-pulp 3.23 1940 Song in a Minor Key
author: C.L. Moore
name: Tony
average rating: 3.23
book published: 1940
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: science-fiction-pulp
review:
This is a very brief (only a couple of pages) story of Moore's iconic character Northwest Smith - the character that served somewhat as a blueprint for Han Solo. This is also the last Northwest Smith story that Moore wrote (as far as I can tell), and provides some background that may not have been previously revealed - I can't be sure as I haven't read all the Northwest Smith stories.
]]> The Girls from Earth 33963161 33 Frank Robinson Tony 3 science-fiction 3.00 The Girls from Earth
author: Frank Robinson
name: Tony
average rating: 3.00
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: science-fiction
review:
This short story is very much of its time - the early 1950s - and contains a level of casual sexism that may be even more pronounced for what was usual at the time. Earth society, as described in this story, seems to me to be quite dystopian, although I'm sure that was not the author's intention, and contemporary readers probably would not have found it so.
]]> The Sentimentalists 32310771 The Sentimentalists 47 Murray Leinster Tony 4 science-fiction 4.00 The Sentimentalists
author: Murray Leinster
name: Tony
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/03/30
shelves: science-fiction
review:
A fun short story that turns the trope of bug-eyed monsters on its head. In this case a honeymooning pair of aliens provide anonymous assistance to some humans, whom they view as pets. It's a whimsical story, well-written by Leinster, and a good example of 1950s sci-fi.
]]> <![CDATA[Shadow Corps Boxset 1-4: A Military SciFi Series]]> 52214706 Book 1: Shadow Corps Sam was badass even before she learned how to harness her alien powers. All Sam ever wanted was to kill aliens and defend Earth. When she's taken up to space to join a ROK Marine and a couple of badass aliens with the mission of going to the darkest corners of the galaxy to kill bad guys, she's right at home.She is a member of the SHADOW A group comprised of deadly warriors who focus on galactic safety. These are the universe's black-ops heroes. The ones nobody ever hears about, because they operate in the shadows.But when she starts her training and learns what these aliens are truly capable of, she finds she might have bitten off more than she can chew. Samantha had better master her alien powers soon, or be forced to watch her world, and many others, burn.Book 2: Shadow Worlds The universe is far from safe. Leading the universe's most deadly warriors, Samantha must venture into the Shadow Worlds in a hunt that will pit her team against mind-controlling genetically engineered aliens, a notorious space pirate, and more space dragons.Once again Samantha comes out swinging in this action-packed Space Opera. With the help of her alien biotech armor, she is able to level up and optimize her skill tree upgrades to bring destruction to evil that lurks in the darkest corners of the universe. Along the way, she'll learn who it was that gave her these powers.Book 3: Shadow Fleet There cannot be shadows without the light. Samantha and her black ops team continue their romp across the universe to go up against the mind-controlling Scrapulent and an armada of space pirates in order to save the Three Kings of Orion.She might also finally learn who her father is. Join the Shadow Corps as they destroy their enemy and ensure the safety of all that is good, while leveling out their sword and weapons to match the hard core skill tree attacks they've attained through leveling up.Book 4: Shadow Mystic Sam has been on a mission assassinating alien threats, but the final days are upon us—the enemy is on our doorstep. They won't stay there for long if the Shadow Corps has anything to say about it. Winning this fight will require training on distant planets, great sacrifices, and learning to trust new friends.Fans of Mass Effect and Space Fantasy books love this complete boxset.]]> 864 Justin Sloan Tony 0 to-read 4.10 Shadow Corps Boxset 1-4: A Military SciFi Series
author: Justin Sloan
name: Tony
average rating: 4.10
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Death Traps of FX-31 6633642 26 Sewell Peaslee Wright Tony 4 science-fiction-pulp 3.05 1933 The Death Traps of FX-31
author: Sewell Peaslee Wright
name: Tony
average rating: 3.05
book published: 1933
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: science-fiction-pulp
review:
A fun short story of the atompunk genre.
]]> <![CDATA[Fifty Years of Dungeons & Dragons]]> 186491432
In 2024, the enormously influential tabletop role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons —also known as D&D —celebrates its fiftieth anniversary. To mark the occasion, editors Premeet Sidhu, Marcus Carter, and José Zagal have assembled an edited collection that celebrates and reflects on important parts of the game’s past, present, and future. Each chapter in Fifty Years of Dungeons & Dragons explores why the nondigital game is more popular than ever—with sales increasing 33 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite worldwide lockdowns—and offers readers the opportunity to critically reflect on their own experiences, perceptions, and play of D&D .

Fifty Years of Dungeons & Dragons draws on fascinating research and insight from expert scholars in the field, Gary Alan Fine, whose 1983 book Shared Fantasy remains a canonical text in game studies; Jon Peterson, celebrated D&D historian; Daniel Justice, Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Literature and Expressive Culture; and numerous leading and emerging scholars from the growing discipline of game studies, including Amanda Cote, Esther MacCallum-Stewart, and Aaron Trammell. The chapters cover a diverse range of topics—from D&D ’s adoption in local contexts and classrooms and by queer communities to speculative interpretations of what D&D might look like in one hundred years—that aim to deepen readers� understanding of the game.]]> 392 Premeet Sidhu 0262547600 Tony 0 currently-reading 3.53 2024 Fifty Years of Dungeons & Dragons
author: Premeet Sidhu
name: Tony
average rating: 3.53
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> The Science Fiction Anthology 57390224 This collection brings together some of the most incredible sci-fi stories ever told in one convenient, high-quality, low-priced Kindle volume! This book now contains several HTML tables of contents that will make reading a real pleasure!

The Sentimentalists, by Murray Leinster

The Girls from Earth, by Frank Robinson
The Death Traps of FX-31, by Sewell Wright
Song in a minor key, by C.L. Moore
Sentry of the Sky, by Evelyn E. Smith
Meeting of the Minds, by Robert Sheckley
Junior, by Robert Abernathy
Death Wish, by Ned Lang
Dead World, by Jack Douglas
Cost of Living, by Robert Sheckley
Aloys, by R.A. Lafferty
With These Hands, by C.M. Kornbluth
What is POSAT?, by Phyllis Sterling-Smith
A Little Journey, by Ray Bradbury
Hunt the Hunter, by Kris Neville
Citizen Jell, by Michael Shaara
Operation Distress, by Lester Del Rey
Syndrome Johnny, by Charles Dye
Psychotennis, anyone?, by Lloyd Williams
Prime Difference, by Alan Nourse
Doorstep, by Keith Laumer
The Drug, by C.C. MacApp
An Elephant For the Prinkip, by L.J. Stecher
License to Steal, by Louis Newman
The Last Letter, by Fritz Lieber
The Stuff, by Henry Slesar
The Celestial Hammerlock, by Donald Colvin
Always A Qurono, by Jim Harmon
Jamieson, by Bill Doede
A Fall of Glass, by Stanley Lee
Shatter the Wall, by Sydney Van Scyoc
Transfer Point, by Anthony Boucher
Thy Name Is Woman, by Kenneth O'Hara
Twelve Times Zero, by Howard Browne
All Day Wednesday, by Richard Olin
Blind Spot, by Bascom Jones
Double Take, by Richard Wilson
Field Trip, by Gene Hunter
Larson's Luck, by Gerald Vance
Navy Day, by Harry Harrison
One Martian Afternoon, by Tom Leahy
Planet of Dreams, by James McKimmey
Prelude To Space, by Robert Haseltine
Pythias, by Frederik Pohl
Show Business, by Boyd Ellanby
Slaves of Mercury, by Nat Schachner
Sound of Terror, by Don Berry
The Big Tomorrow, by Paul Lohrman
The Four-Faced Visitors of…Ezekiel, by Arthur Orton
The Happy Man, by Gerald Page
The Last Supper, by T.D. Hamm
The One and the Many, by Milton Lesser
The Other Likeness, by James Schmitz
The Outbreak of Peace, by H.B. Fyfe
The Skull, by Philip K. Dick
The Smiler, by Albert Hernhunter
The Unthinking Destroyer, by Roger Phillips
Two Timer, by Frederic Brown
Vital Ingredient, by Charles De Vet
Weak on Square Roots, by Russell Burton
With a Vengeance, by J.B. Woodley
Zero Hour, by Alexander Blade
The Great Nebraska Sea, by Allan Danzig
The Valor of Cappen Varra, by Poul Anderson
A Bad Day for Vermin, by Keith Laumer
Hall of Mirrors, by Frederic Brown
Common Denominator, by John MacDonald
Doctor, by Murray Leinster
The Nothing Equation, by Tom Godwin
The Last Evolution, by John Campbell
A Hitch in Space, by Fritz Leiber
On the Fourth Planet, by J.F. Bone
Flight From Tomorrow, by H. Beam Piper
Card Trick, by Walter Bupp
The K-Factor, by Harry Harrison
The Lani People, by J. F. Bone
Advanced Chemistry, by Jack Huekels
Sodom and Gomorrah, Texas, by R. A.]]> 2528 Andre Norton 2378078528 Tony 0 currently-reading 4.24 The Science Fiction Anthology
author: Andre Norton
name: Tony
average rating: 4.24
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Under an Azure Sky (Elysia Dayne, #1)]]> 59734204
A multiple award-winning* sapphic epic fantasy.

Elysia Dayne is a renowned hero, mercenary, and monster slayer famed for killing a dragon in single combat. At least, that's how the bards tell it. However, there was a time when she thought that dragons were beautiful.

The jaded sword master accepts a job along the unforgiving borderlands to rescue Princess Isabella Solemaine, a prisoner of goblins in the Black Fort. With meticulous planning, nothing can possibly go wrong...

It goes wrong, pitching the pair into a sprawling wilderness. Short of supplies, they have to fend for themselves and each other. Can love blossom under such harsh conditions?

Meanwhile, a group of Niemirian raiders led by their psychotic leader, Varya, are dedicated to hunting down and killing the princess and her protector.

Join Elysia as she traverses an ugly yet beautiful world, exploring the nature of the human condition. The precarious nature of her present is finely balanced, interwoven with a past timeline where a young Elysia faces dangers of a different kind.

What is she ultimately willing to sacrifice? An emotional journey fraught with action, and suspense.]]> 448 Wil Chan Tony 3 bingo2025, fantasy
The story opens in the middle of the action, but - through flashback chapters - fills in a lot of the backstory along the way. The main character, Elysia Dayne, is well developed and more than she initially appears. A lot of her backstory is revealed, but certainly not all. The secondary character, Isabella, is less well developed, but more of her story is likely to be revealed in the next two novels.

Chan's strength as a writer seems to be more in character development than in plot - perhaps not so surprising for a fantasy-romance novel - as there was nothing in the story that surprised me. Not that the story is bad, but it is not the main strength of the novel.

I found the ending unsatisfying, although I expect others will disagree. However, I can't really say more without introducing spoilers.
]]> 3.97 Under an Azure Sky (Elysia Dayne, #1)
author: Wil Chan
name: Tony
average rating: 3.97
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/26
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: bingo2025, fantasy
review:
This is the first book in a series that currently runs to 3 books. This is a fantasy book with a sizeable, but not overwhelming, dollop of romance added in.

The story opens in the middle of the action, but - through flashback chapters - fills in a lot of the backstory along the way. The main character, Elysia Dayne, is well developed and more than she initially appears. A lot of her backstory is revealed, but certainly not all. The secondary character, Isabella, is less well developed, but more of her story is likely to be revealed in the next two novels.

Chan's strength as a writer seems to be more in character development than in plot - perhaps not so surprising for a fantasy-romance novel - as there was nothing in the story that surprised me. Not that the story is bad, but it is not the main strength of the novel.

I found the ending unsatisfying, although I expect others will disagree. However, I can't really say more without introducing spoilers.

]]> The Desert Air War 25969386 228 Richard Townshend Bickers Tony 4 history
Bickers does allow his British heritage to colour his narrative, and does present some negative stereotypes of the Italians, French, and Germans. Discussing the feud between Monty and Patton, he certainly ascribes to the British view that Monty was a genius, and Patton somewhat of a bumbling idiot.

Aside from the casually racist attitude that Bickers presents - which may be part of the era he grew up in, but probably should have been eliminated by the time he wrote this in 1991 - the most irritating thing was the poor typesetting in the edition I read. The text has obviously been copied from a previous edition, but not tidied up. Words that had been hyphenated due to being split over two lines, are still hyphenated even if the word is complete on one line. Irritating and, I would think, relatively easy to correct.]]> 3.99 1991 The Desert Air War
author: Richard Townshend Bickers
name: Tony
average rating: 3.99
book published: 1991
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/24
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves: history
review:
This is a good overview of the air war in North Africa, covering from the start of the campaign through to the Italian campaign, in which the Desert Air Force played a large part. The author gives plenty of factual detail about the conflict, interspersed with anecdotes from the pilots and aircrew involved.

Bickers does allow his British heritage to colour his narrative, and does present some negative stereotypes of the Italians, French, and Germans. Discussing the feud between Monty and Patton, he certainly ascribes to the British view that Monty was a genius, and Patton somewhat of a bumbling idiot.

Aside from the casually racist attitude that Bickers presents - which may be part of the era he grew up in, but probably should have been eliminated by the time he wrote this in 1991 - the most irritating thing was the poor typesetting in the edition I read. The text has obviously been copied from a previous edition, but not tidied up. Words that had been hyphenated due to being split over two lines, are still hyphenated even if the word is complete on one line. Irritating and, I would think, relatively easy to correct.
]]> <![CDATA[Phase One: The Avengers (Marvel Cinematic Universe #5)]]> 57531614 225 Alexander C. Irvine 1760661104 Tony 0 to-read 4.00 2015 Phase One: The Avengers (Marvel Cinematic Universe #5)
author: Alexander C. Irvine
name: Tony
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Unquiet Grave (Durham Red #1)]]> 849512 256 Peter J. Evans 1844161595 Tony 4 bingo2025, science-fiction
It's an enjoyable read, although there are a number of references to events that (presumably) happened in the comics, but I didn't find that lessened my understanding of the story. That said this is a sci-fi action horror novel - there aren't huge amounts of character development.

Overall, a fun read. The novel is the first in a series - the main storyline is wrapped up by the end, although there is a setup for the next novel.
]]> 3.48 2004 The Unquiet Grave (Durham Red #1)
author: Peter J. Evans
name: Tony
average rating: 3.48
book published: 2004
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/24
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
This is the first of a series of 5 novels that feature Durham Red as the protagonist - a character that originated in the Strontium Dogs comic from the pages of 2000 AD. There are a number of similarities between the universe these novels are set in, and the universe of Warhammer 40K - Iconoclast warriors are effectively Space Marines, as one example. This is perhaps not surprising given that the lore of both franchises developed in the dark days of Thatcher's Britain of the 1980s, and both series have shared a few authors over the years.

It's an enjoyable read, although there are a number of references to events that (presumably) happened in the comics, but I didn't find that lessened my understanding of the story. That said this is a sci-fi action horror novel - there aren't huge amounts of character development.

Overall, a fun read. The novel is the first in a series - the main storyline is wrapped up by the end, although there is a setup for the next novel.

]]> Batman Digital Justice 6052631 Pepe Moreno 1199449911 Tony 3 graphic-novels, superhero 2.64 1990 Batman Digital Justice
author: Pepe Moreno
name: Tony
average rating: 2.64
book published: 1990
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/23
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:

]]> American Vampire, Vol. 1 13112474 200 Scott Snyder 1401235735 Tony 0 graphic-novels 4.08 2010 American Vampire, Vol. 1
author: Scott Snyder
name: Tony
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at: 2025/02/19
date added: 2025/02/19
shelves: graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Book of Lost Tales, Part One (The History of Middle-Earth, #1)]]> 1001264 297 J.R.R. Tolkien 0048232386 Tony 4 bingo2025, fantasy
By necessity, Christopher Tolkien has provided extensive editorial notes. There are certainly sections where we get the beauty of Tolkien's prose, but Christopher has had to piece together these stories from drafts and re-worked drafts and notes to provide some coherence, so the book in many places does read a bit like a history text - which doesn't make it any less interesting.

If you loved Lord of the Rings, and enjoyed The Silmarillion, and want to delve deeper into Middle Earth, give this series a go. But if you found The Silmarillion a tough read, or a bit dry, be prepared to find this the same, but more so. Really, only recommended for hardcore Tolkien fans.]]> 4.10 1983 The Book of Lost Tales, Part One (The History of Middle-Earth, #1)
author: J.R.R. Tolkien
name: Tony
average rating: 4.10
book published: 1983
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/17
date added: 2025/02/17
shelves: bingo2025, fantasy
review:
This book, the first in the 12-volume History of Middle Earth series, is not a book for the casual Tolkien reader. In this book, Christopher Tolkien - the Professor's son - gathers together his father's notes, and presents tales from the earliest period of Middle Earth. Earliest in both being the very early days of Middle Earth, and early in being very early in Tolkien's career - most of these come from the early 1920s and before. Much of this formed the basis for the stories that were eventually included in The Silmarillion.

By necessity, Christopher Tolkien has provided extensive editorial notes. There are certainly sections where we get the beauty of Tolkien's prose, but Christopher has had to piece together these stories from drafts and re-worked drafts and notes to provide some coherence, so the book in many places does read a bit like a history text - which doesn't make it any less interesting.

If you loved Lord of the Rings, and enjoyed The Silmarillion, and want to delve deeper into Middle Earth, give this series a go. But if you found The Silmarillion a tough read, or a bit dry, be prepared to find this the same, but more so. Really, only recommended for hardcore Tolkien fans.
]]> <![CDATA[The Atlantis World (the Origin Mystery, #3)]]> 23975838
Geneticist Kate Warner and counter-terrorism agent David Vale have prevented a fierce plague from wiping out humanity - but the struggle to survive is far from over.

The Atlantis World stretches deep into space and time, harbouring an enemy greater than anyone had imagined. Now Kate and David must race through galaxies, past space stations, and into the past of a mysterious culture whose secrets could save humanity in its darkest hour.

This is the blockbusting final instalment in the Origin Mysteries.]]> 316 A.G. Riddle Tony 3 bingo2025, science-fiction 4.01 2014 The Atlantis World (the Origin Mystery, #3)
author: A.G. Riddle
name: Tony
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/14
date added: 2025/02/14
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
Riddle has certainly improved his writing style during this trilogy, and this book is leaner than the first two in the trilogy. It's an enjoyable wrap up to the series, although I did find the ending a bit rushed - I wasn't sure if the author had planned those events all along, or if he had written himself into a position and that was the only way out.
]]> <![CDATA[The Atlantis Plague (The Origin Mystery, #2)]]> 24679118 70,000 years ago, the human race almost went extinct. We survived, but no one knows how.

Now the countdown to the next stage of human evolution has begun. Will we survive this time?

Geneticist Kate Warner and counter-terrorism agent David Vale are working desperately against the clock to prevent a pandemic 70,000 years in the making. If this plague takes hold, it could change humanity forever...

A story of human survival and perseverance in the face of extinction, this is part two in the blockbusting Origin Mysteries.

]]> 443 A.G. Riddle 1784970107 Tony 4 bingo2025, science-fiction
A number of subplots from this novel, and the first novel in the series, are tied up, but the main plot won't be resolved until the final novel.

I enjoy a good Atlantis story, and this provides a different, although certainly not unique, take on the theme. The author also provides a section on his website which discusses which elements of the story are historically and/or scientifically accurate and which are not, which is a nice touch.]]> 3.92 2013 The Atlantis Plague (The Origin Mystery, #2)
author: A.G. Riddle
name: Tony
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/04
date added: 2025/02/03
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
This second book in the Origin Mystery trilogy is an improvement on the first, largely because Riddle has more experience as an author. His writing in this book is much tighter. A lot of books in this genre - SF techno thriller - can be read in any order, as they are generally complete stories. That's not the case with this series - it is a trilogy, and I think readers would struggle to follow the story if they haven't read the first book.

A number of subplots from this novel, and the first novel in the series, are tied up, but the main plot won't be resolved until the final novel.

I enjoy a good Atlantis story, and this provides a different, although certainly not unique, take on the theme. The author also provides a section on his website which discusses which elements of the story are historically and/or scientifically accurate and which are not, which is a nice touch.
]]> <![CDATA[The Atlantis Gene (The Origin Mystery, #1)]]> 24531263
Only geneticist Kate Warner and counter-terrorism agent David Vale can save the future of humanity. But first they must learn to work together - and trust each other - as they race to unlock the truth of the Atlantis Gene...

An exhilarating thriller that reveals the secrets of modern science and ancient conspiracies, Nazi artefacts and alien technology, this is the ebook bestseller that took the US by storm.]]> 368 A.G. Riddle Tony 3 bingo2025, science-fiction
This is the first book of a trilogy, so it will be interesting to see how much the author learned from writing this, and whether the next book is an improvement.]]> 3.79 2013 The Atlantis Gene (The Origin Mystery, #1)
author: A.G. Riddle
name: Tony
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/17
date added: 2025/01/17
shelves: bingo2025, science-fiction
review:
This was Riddle's first novel - and it shows. Suspension of disbelief is always required with these sorts of plots, but this does require a pretty substantial suspension of disbelief. The pacing seems as though it's written for a TV show, with constant changes of scene. That said, the story was fun, tying together Atlantis and Nazi plots, and the very fast pacing does keep the reader engaged.

This is the first book of a trilogy, so it will be interesting to see how much the author learned from writing this, and whether the next book is an improvement.
]]> Wolverine: Bloody Choices 2100139 The duty-bound Nick Fury, director of S.H.I.E.L.D- the most powerful secret agency in the world- has sworn to grant Bullfinch immunity from prosecution in exchange for his cartel-busting testimony. Though if an enraged Logan has his way, the vile drug smuggler will never reach the courtroom alive.
These are the unswerving paths taken by two men whose vows will plunge them into a violent conflict from which only one may survive.]]> 64 Tom DeFalco 0871359804 Tony 3 graphic-novels, superhero 3.49 1991 Wolverine: Bloody Choices
author: Tom DeFalco
name: Tony
average rating: 3.49
book published: 1991
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/11
date added: 2025/01/11
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dirty: Filthy Hot Sex Stories for Naughty Adults (Mega Explicit Taboo Collection)]]> 55347619 Angel Bliss Tony 3 erotica
As for the stories, they are much of what you would expect from the title, although the range of taboos isn't broad - most of them are either forbidden love (father and step-daughter) or BDSM. A couple of the stories were quite good, most were average, a few were really bad.]]> 3.20 Dirty: Filthy Hot Sex Stories for Naughty Adults (Mega Explicit Taboo Collection)
author: Angel Bliss
name: Tony
average rating: 3.20
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/02
date added: 2025/01/02
shelves: erotica
review:
As with almost all anthologies, the quality varies from author to author. And even though the book is listed as being written by Angel Bliss, the difference in writing quality and writing style clearly indicates that this is written by multiple authors.

As for the stories, they are much of what you would expect from the title, although the range of taboos isn't broad - most of them are either forbidden love (father and step-daughter) or BDSM. A couple of the stories were quite good, most were average, a few were really bad.
]]> <![CDATA[The Last Dark (The Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, #4 )]]> 21222361 622 Stephen R. Donaldson 0575083468 Tony 3 fantasy
However, his protagonist - initially Thomas Covenant, then Linden Avery - are so thoroughly unlikeable, Linden far more so than Thomas., that it made it very difficult for me to actually care about what was happening. That is the reason that the length of time needed to read each book, and the gap between reading each book, increased so much as I progressed through the series. I only finished through stubbornness to complete the series.

The last 4 books in the series all could have been a lot shorter, and every single action that the characters take seems to be the most important thing at that time.

As for the final book, it is certainly better than the 9th book in the series - Against All Things Ending - but it's not as good as the first trilogy, and I think if I had stopped reading at that point, it would have been better. Thomas Covenant does have significant character growth throughout the series, although Linden Avery does not. Also, there is far too much of people arriving just in the nick of time in order to provide the exact assistance that is required at that particular moment.

In summary, I guess I'm glad that I read the whole series, but it's not something I would ever do again.]]> 4.18 2013 The Last Dark (The Last Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, #4 )
author: Stephen R. Donaldson
name: Tony
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/29
date added: 2024/12/28
shelves: fantasy
review:
So, this brings to an end my complete reread of the Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, a journey which took me almost 6 years. There is no question that Donaldson is a talented writer, and The Land is a richly-detailed world that, in many ways, is the true hero of these series.

However, his protagonist - initially Thomas Covenant, then Linden Avery - are so thoroughly unlikeable, Linden far more so than Thomas., that it made it very difficult for me to actually care about what was happening. That is the reason that the length of time needed to read each book, and the gap between reading each book, increased so much as I progressed through the series. I only finished through stubbornness to complete the series.

The last 4 books in the series all could have been a lot shorter, and every single action that the characters take seems to be the most important thing at that time.

As for the final book, it is certainly better than the 9th book in the series - Against All Things Ending - but it's not as good as the first trilogy, and I think if I had stopped reading at that point, it would have been better. Thomas Covenant does have significant character growth throughout the series, although Linden Avery does not. Also, there is far too much of people arriving just in the nick of time in order to provide the exact assistance that is required at that particular moment.

In summary, I guess I'm glad that I read the whole series, but it's not something I would ever do again.
]]> Pellucidar 18910682 221 Edgar Rice Burroughs Tony 3 science-fiction-pulp
It seemed likely that he intended, at the time, that this would be the last Pellucidar novel, as the story was completed, and it was 13 years before he returned to this world.]]> 4.02 1915 Pellucidar
author: Edgar Rice Burroughs
name: Tony
average rating: 4.02
book published: 1915
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/18
date added: 2024/12/18
shelves: science-fiction-pulp
review:
This book picked up pretty much where the first book left off, but wasn't, for me anyway, as good. I found it a bit repetitive. There was too much of David leaves Dian alone briefly, Dian gets abducted, and David then has to put aside his plans to go and rescue her. It was ok as a plot device once, but it happened 3 or 4 times in this book. That said, ERB is still an excellent writer of this style of pulp.

It seemed likely that he intended, at the time, that this would be the last Pellucidar novel, as the story was completed, and it was 13 years before he returned to this world.
]]> <![CDATA[At the Earth's Core (Pellucidar, #1)]]> 42857338 Having established their name as the leading publisher of classic literature and art, Delphi Classics produce publications that are individually crafted with superior formatting, while introducing many rare texts for the first time in digital print. The Delphi Classics edition of Burroughs includes original annotations and illustrations relating to the life and works of the author, as well as individual tables of contents, allowing you to navigate eBooks quickly and easily.

eBook features:* The complete unabridged text of ‘At the Earth’s Core by Edgar Rice Burroughs - Delphi Classics (Illustrated)�* Beautifully illustrated with images related to Burroughs’s works* Individual contents table, allowing easy navigation around the eBook* Excellent formatting of the textPlease visit to learn more about our wide range of titles]]> Edgar Rice Burroughs Tony 4 science-fiction-pulp
Stories about the Hollow Earth were not new when Burroughs wrote this in 1914 - Verne's Journey to the Centre of the Earth from the 19th century being the most famous example - and this is a fine addition to the collection of these stories. It is told with Burroughs' customary all-action approach, as well as his usual lack of concern for scientific accuracy. While a lack of scientific accuracy is pretty much a given for a Hollow Earth story, Burroughs makes no attempt at all to apply any scientific rigour, choosing instead to concentrate on developing the plot and keeping the action moving. And these are goals that he accomplishes with his usual quality.

If you are a fan of ERB, this book will be an enjoyable addition to your reading. It you're not familiar with his work, this is not a bad place to start - it will certainly provide you with a good example of his writing style.]]> 3.00 1914 At the Earth's Core (Pellucidar, #1)
author: Edgar Rice Burroughs
name: Tony
average rating: 3.00
book published: 1914
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/30
date added: 2024/11/30
shelves: science-fiction-pulp
review:
Even though I have read (and re-read) ERB's Barsoom series (and his Venus books) many times since I first started them in my teenage years, I had never read the Pellucidar series - clearly a mistake on my part.

Stories about the Hollow Earth were not new when Burroughs wrote this in 1914 - Verne's Journey to the Centre of the Earth from the 19th century being the most famous example - and this is a fine addition to the collection of these stories. It is told with Burroughs' customary all-action approach, as well as his usual lack of concern for scientific accuracy. While a lack of scientific accuracy is pretty much a given for a Hollow Earth story, Burroughs makes no attempt at all to apply any scientific rigour, choosing instead to concentrate on developing the plot and keeping the action moving. And these are goals that he accomplishes with his usual quality.

If you are a fan of ERB, this book will be an enjoyable addition to your reading. It you're not familiar with his work, this is not a bad place to start - it will certainly provide you with a good example of his writing style.
]]> <![CDATA[Summon the Keeper (Keeper's Chronicles #1)]]> 60738 331 Tanya Huff 0886777844 Tony 4 bingo-2024, urban-fantasy
There are a couple of sequels to this book, which I will probably get around to reading at some point, but the ending does tie the story up, so there is no pressing need to continue the series straight away.]]> 3.96 1998 Summon the Keeper (Keeper's Chronicles #1)
author: Tanya Huff
name: Tony
average rating: 3.96
book published: 1998
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/18
date added: 2024/11/18
shelves: bingo-2024, urban-fantasy
review:
Not quite urban fantasy and not really cozy mystery, this book does sit between the two, although closer to urban fantasy. It's well-written, as you would expect from Tanya Huff, and there are plenty of good one-liners throughout the book - many of them from Austin (the cat), who really does steal the show for most of the book.

There are a couple of sequels to this book, which I will probably get around to reading at some point, but the ending does tie the story up, so there is no pressing need to continue the series straight away.
]]> Marada the She-Wolf 1443057 64 Chris Claremont 0871351536 Tony 3 graphic-novels, fantasy
This is a story no less fantastical than the X-Men, being set in a fantasy version of the Roman Empire, but is certainly not as well told. The story is not badly written, but it's certainly not great, and it's very predictable. The graphic novel is saved however, by Bolton's gorgeous artwork, and is worth reading for that alone.]]> 3.61 1985 Marada the She-Wolf
author: Chris Claremont
name: Tony
average rating: 3.61
book published: 1985
rating: 3
read at: 2020/04/26
date added: 2024/11/13
shelves: graphic-novels, fantasy
review:
This is a graphic novel written by Chris Claremont and illustrated by John Bolton. Most people who are familiar with Claremont's work will probably know him from his time of turning the X-Men into one of Marvel's biggest properties. I'm not familiar with Bolton's work.

This is a story no less fantastical than the X-Men, being set in a fantasy version of the Roman Empire, but is certainly not as well told. The story is not badly written, but it's certainly not great, and it's very predictable. The graphic novel is saved however, by Bolton's gorgeous artwork, and is worth reading for that alone.
]]> <![CDATA[Complete Stories of Oz (Wordsworth Special Editions)]]> 15955892
BEFORE MIDDLE EARTH...

BEFORE HOGWARTS...

THERE WAS OZ

The Wizard of Oz: A Polychrome Omnibus is a collection of five novels featuring everyone's favorite daughter of the Rainbow - Polychrome.

In The Road to Oz (1909), L. Frank Baum introduces us to the Rainbow's Daughter. Along with Dorothy, Button Bright and the Shaggy man, Polychrome must make her way through a wonderous series of magical lands in order to reach the Emerald City in time for Ozma's birthday party.

Then, in Sky Island (1912) Polychrome comes to the assistance of Button Bright, Trot and Cap'n Bill when a magical umbrella whisks them to a fantastic yet dangerous land in the sky.

Polychrome makes her third appearance in Tik Tok of Oz (1914), joining her old friend the Shaggy Man and new friends like Betsy Bobbin and Queen Ann Soforth in the exciting search for Shaggy's long-lost brother.

In The Tin Woodman of Oz (1918) Polychrome helps Nick Chopper and the Scarecrow search for the Woodman's lost love - a woman the Tin Man hasn't seen since before Dorothy found him rusted in the forest and rescued him.

Finally, in Rainbow's Emissary (2011) Mike LaMontagne gives us a Polychrome that is faithful to Baum's vision while at the same time written in an exciting style that will appeal to the Harry Potter Generation.

Polychrome has returned to the Emerald City with a warning for Dorothy. The Sky Fairy's cousin has descended upon Oz and he's picking up where the Wicked Witch of the West left off. He's stolen her magics. He's rebuilt her armies. He wants revenge and he doesn't care if he has to destroy all of Oz to get it.

With the help of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion and the Hungry Tiger, Polychrome must rescue the Tin Man and stop her cousin before time runs out.]]> 1488 L. Frank Baum 1840226951 Tony 3 bingo-2024, fantasy 4.05 1920 Complete Stories of Oz (Wordsworth Special Editions)
author: L. Frank Baum
name: Tony
average rating: 4.05
book published: 1920
rating: 3
read at: 2024/11/10
date added: 2024/11/10
shelves: bingo-2024, fantasy
review:
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is one of the great children's fantasies, but none of the rest of the Oz books written by Baum reach that level. They're not bad, and books 2 through 6 are pretty good, but it becomes increasingly obvious after the 6th book (The Emerald City of Oz), that Baum is continuing because his public were demanding it, not so much because he still had stories to tell. There is a sameness about the later books in the collection that indicate that he is not really inspired by writing more Oz books. In fact, at the end of the 6th book, Oz is closed off from all outside contact, but clearly public demand for another Oz book was so great that Baum (or his publishers) felt the need for more. None of this is to say that the later books are bad - Baum is still an inventive fantasist - just that they're not as good as the earlier books.
]]> <![CDATA[The Complete Cyberforce Vol. 1 (Cyberforce 1992)]]> 62043532
Collects CYBERFORCE #0, TIN MEN OF WAR #1-4, KILLER INSTINCT #5-7, CYBERFORCE VOL. 2 #1-13, CYBERFORCE CYBLADE #1, CYBERFORCE STRYKER #2 & CYBERFORCE ANNUAL #1]]> 605 Marc Silvestri Tony 4 graphic-novels, superhero 3.64 2022 The Complete Cyberforce Vol. 1 (Cyberforce 1992)
author: Marc Silvestri
name: Tony
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/07
date added: 2024/11/07
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:
Some interesting storylines, although occasionally a bit confusing. The artwork is excellent, the cheesecake quotient is a bit high, although perfectly in line with superhero comics of the 90s.
]]> <![CDATA[Eulogy Of Planet Earth: TRUMP - ENDGAME POLITICS]]> 219202176 "Previously published as [ Eulogy Of Planet Earth] by [Raymond E. Caron]"

Trump wipes out the Democratic Party
The USA becomes a one-party country
Trump poised to take over the world

It was not the sniper bullet President Trump dodged that allowed him to defeat Kamala Harris and secure the White House, but the slogan MAKE CHINA PAY. It was a Pyrrhic victory that led to an all-out nuclear war with China and the total destruction of Planet Earth on August 6th, 2026.
Led by Aristotleson, the only survivors of WW III are the Departed Elite. They are the descendants of the best scientists who fled war-torn Ancient Greece in 320 BC shortly after the death of Alexander the Great. Even before the BC/AD divide, these brilliant scientists were already a thousand times more technologically advanced than our present-day scientists.
In this age of algorithms gone mad, the takeover of crypto-money, the assault on meritocracy and the lunacy of woke, everyone is desperate to find the meaning of life. Trump –Endgame Politics may well have the answers you are looking for.
If the stated aim of satire is to improve humanity with wit and humor then Eulogy of Planet Earth is right up there with literary works like Gulliver’s Travels, 1984, Animal Farm, Catch 22, Slaughter House Five and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.
A real-time Science Fiction political suspense thriller of war, Armageddon and the Apocalypse.

This novel is a must-read. You will love it.



This is Book 4 in a series of 4 books called Eulogy of Planet Earth. ]]> 118 RAYMOND E. CARON Tony 1 bingo-2024, dystopian
This was supposed to be the 4th book in a 4-book alternate history type story, but I couldn't find any listings for the first 3 books on either Amazon or ŷ. Reading the first 3 books may have improved this book, as it may have made the omnipotent Greek philosopher society a little less jarring. And I stress the word may.

This book was written this year - and fairly late this year, as it does mention the assassination attempts on Trump. But that also means the book was rushed, at least it seems that way, with long passages of info dump to fill in the backstory - a backstory which completely shattered any plausibility.
]]> 3.20 Eulogy Of Planet Earth: TRUMP - ENDGAME POLITICS
author: RAYMOND E. CARON
name: Tony
average rating: 3.20
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2024/11/07
date added: 2024/11/07
shelves: bingo-2024, dystopian
review:
I got this book for free, and I still feel overcharged. The blurb indicated this would be a dystopian satire, which it was - for the first chapter. After that it was closer to an absurdist fantasy. Now, a misleading blurb is not necessarily the fault of the author - although I expect this is self-published, so it could well be.

This was supposed to be the 4th book in a 4-book alternate history type story, but I couldn't find any listings for the first 3 books on either Amazon or ŷ. Reading the first 3 books may have improved this book, as it may have made the omnipotent Greek philosopher society a little less jarring. And I stress the word may.

This book was written this year - and fairly late this year, as it does mention the assassination attempts on Trump. But that also means the book was rushed, at least it seems that way, with long passages of info dump to fill in the backstory - a backstory which completely shattered any plausibility.

]]> Batman: Gotham by Gaslight 626603 48 Brian Augustyn 1852862653 Tony 4 graphic-novels, superhero 3.79 1989 Batman: Gotham by Gaslight
author: Brian Augustyn
name: Tony
average rating: 3.79
book published: 1989
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/31
date added: 2024/11/01
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Nightingale's Lament (Nightside, #3)]]> 148213 217 Simon R. Green 0441011632 Tony 4 bingo-2024, urban-fantasy 3.98 2004 Nightingale's Lament (Nightside, #3)
author: Simon R. Green
name: Tony
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2004
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/27
date added: 2024/10/27
shelves: bingo-2024, urban-fantasy
review:
A bit slow to start - perhaps because this is the 3rd book in the series and I haven't read the first two. Although, ultimately, I don't think that lessened my ability to get into the story, which is an enjoyable tale of the hidden London. Occasionally reminiscent of Gaiman's Neverwhere, although darker in tone.
]]> The Chrysalids 4934915
The Chrysalids is a post-nuclear apocalypse story of genetic mutation in a devastated world and explores the lengths the intolerant will go to to keep themselves pure.]]> 200 John Wyndham 0141032979 Tony 5
The Chrysalids is not as well known as novels such as The Day of the Triffids and The Midwich Cuckoos, possibly because it has never been adapted for a visual medium. It wouldn't be because of a difference in quality from his better known novels - The Chrysalids is an excellent dystopian story, almost as dark as 1984, and on a level with The Handmaid's Tale, a novel with which it shares some themes.

One of the better dystopian novels of the 20th century.]]> 3.90 1955 The Chrysalids
author: John Wyndham
name: Tony
average rating: 3.90
book published: 1955
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/16
date added: 2024/10/16
shelves: bingo-2024, dystopian, science-fiction
review:
In my opinion, John Wyndham is an often underrated science fiction author, perhaps because he has a fairly low-key writing style, and that writing style is not usually associated with the apocalyptic scenarios which comprise his best known novels.

The Chrysalids is not as well known as novels such as The Day of the Triffids and The Midwich Cuckoos, possibly because it has never been adapted for a visual medium. It wouldn't be because of a difference in quality from his better known novels - The Chrysalids is an excellent dystopian story, almost as dark as 1984, and on a level with The Handmaid's Tale, a novel with which it shares some themes.

One of the better dystopian novels of the 20th century.
]]> <![CDATA[X-Rated Bloodsuckers (Felix Gomez, #2)]]> 1150190 332 Mario Acevedo 0061438871 Tony 3 urban-fantasy, crime
The writing is solid, but not exceptional and the plot is interesting, but does get a little far-fetched at times.]]> 3.42 2007 X-Rated Bloodsuckers (Felix Gomez, #2)
author: Mario Acevedo
name: Tony
average rating: 3.42
book published: 2007
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/08
date added: 2024/10/08
shelves: urban-fantasy, crime
review:
It has been a long time since I read the first Felix Gomez book (over 15 years), but I did enjoy it. This second instalment in the series isn't bad, but I didn't find it as humorous as I recall the first one being. It is primarily a detective story, with some noir elements, but the protagonist is a vampire.

The writing is solid, but not exceptional and the plot is interesting, but does get a little far-fetched at times.
]]> Superman Archives, Vol. 1 56038376 272 Jerry Siegel Tony 4 graphic-novels, superhero
This is a very different Superman than the one most readers would be familiar with (unless they were around in 1939-1940). For a start, this Superman is a lot less powerful than the Superman of the Silver Age or the modern day - he has some invulnerability, although not to the extent that he would have later, and super strength and speed. He can't fly, and has none of his vision-based abilities. And neither his super strength or speed is as powerful as it would be later.

The biggest change, however, is his different moral code, which, not surprisingly, is much more in line with the moral code of the day. He regularly threatens to kill the thugs he is confronted by, and does indeed kill several people in these stories - one, he hurls like a javelin for over a km.

Luthor (with his original red hair) does appear in a couple of the stories, but there are no other supervillains - Superman's usual opponents in these stories are crime bosses and their thugs. Lois Lane features in most of the stories, but this is before the days of Perry White and Jimmy Olsen, and the basics of the Clark-Superman-Lois love triangle are set - Lois wants Superman, Clark wants Lois. Also, not surprising for the day, there is a lot of casual sexism in these stories. One could also assume casual racism, but there are no non-white people in any of the stories.

These are stories from right at the beginning of the superhero phenomena that has become such a large part of modern culture.]]> 3.67 1997 Superman Archives, Vol. 1
author: Jerry Siegel
name: Tony
average rating: 3.67
book published: 1997
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/05
date added: 2024/10/05
shelves: graphic-novels, superhero
review:
The volume collects the first 4 issues of the Superman comic, which itself reprinted a lot of the Superman stories from both Action Comics and the newspaper strip, as well as having some original stories.

This is a very different Superman than the one most readers would be familiar with (unless they were around in 1939-1940). For a start, this Superman is a lot less powerful than the Superman of the Silver Age or the modern day - he has some invulnerability, although not to the extent that he would have later, and super strength and speed. He can't fly, and has none of his vision-based abilities. And neither his super strength or speed is as powerful as it would be later.

The biggest change, however, is his different moral code, which, not surprisingly, is much more in line with the moral code of the day. He regularly threatens to kill the thugs he is confronted by, and does indeed kill several people in these stories - one, he hurls like a javelin for over a km.

Luthor (with his original red hair) does appear in a couple of the stories, but there are no other supervillains - Superman's usual opponents in these stories are crime bosses and their thugs. Lois Lane features in most of the stories, but this is before the days of Perry White and Jimmy Olsen, and the basics of the Clark-Superman-Lois love triangle are set - Lois wants Superman, Clark wants Lois. Also, not surprising for the day, there is a lot of casual sexism in these stories. One could also assume casual racism, but there are no non-white people in any of the stories.

These are stories from right at the beginning of the superhero phenomena that has become such a large part of modern culture.
]]> <![CDATA[Ultrasylvania, Vol. 1: King Dracula (Ultrasylvania, #1)]]> 17285705 In this alternate history of 19th century Europe, Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, and a certain Egyptian resident don’t lurk in the darkness � they’re world leaders, struggling to hold their nations together amid assassination plots, romantic betrayals, and political intrigues.

That’s the world of our story. The setting. And a couple of the major players. But, it’s about a great many things � love, loss, mistrust, espionage, the murkiness of “truth� � and hope in the face of all of that.

Produced in cooperation with the Academy of Art University’s first-of-its-kind Comic Collaborative class, ULTRASYLVANIA was brought to life over the course of fifteen weeks by eleven students, with art direction by Jeremy Saliba (Dynamite’s Wheel of Time) and an original script by Brian Schirmer. Meeting and working in the Academy’s state-of-the-art Cintiq studio, the artists employed a variety of media � pencils, pen and ink, watercolor, all digital � to achieve the finished product.

And, it was written to just be fun! It’s a different take on some classic characters with a few surprises thrown in. Should be a little something in there for everyone. Even you.

io9 calls ULTRASYLVANIA “intriguing� � singling out “Richard Healy’s dark and bleeding watercolors�, “Jonathan Aguillon’s clear black lines and unnatural color palette�, and “Valerio Fabbretti’s detailed realism [which] adds an exciting touch of terror to the opening page, and makes me eager to see the story return to Egypt.� And, Stellar Four says, “The strong storytelling is backed by some outstanding artwork�. I was really blown away.”]]> 94 Brian Schirmer 0984909222 Tony 3 3.10 2012 Ultrasylvania, Vol. 1: King Dracula (Ultrasylvania, #1)
author: Brian Schirmer
name: Tony
average rating: 3.10
book published: 2012
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/02
date added: 2024/10/02
shelves: alternate-history, graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Space: 1975: Space Opera Stories with a 1970s Twist]]> 56671147
Every story in this new book will feature the distinctive style of the 70s, transported to thrilling new worlds, fleets, and conflicts in the farthest and most exciting reaches of the universe. Groove to tales of cosmic heroes in bellbottoms and platform shoes…alien ships like glittering mirror balls…soundtracks of gritty soul, disco, and hard rock. You'll find everything from kung fu fighting to streetwise private dicks…all souped up with incredible ray gun/rocketship action brought to sizzling life by some of the most talented scifi scribes of today and tomorrow.

Blast off with this galaxy of stories by a Star Trek screenwriter, a Nebula Award winner, comic book superstars, New York Times bestsellers, indie publishing giants, and more! Buckle up for the latest dazzling adventures by Marc Scott Zicree, Dean Wesley Smith, Cat Rambo, Peter David, Ian Douglas, Robert Jeschonek, Craig Martelle, Blaze Ward, Ron Collins, Annie Reed, Mike Baron, Mark Leslie Lefebvre, and Jim Gotaas ...plus an introduction by the one and only Barbara Bain, who played Dr. Helena Russell on classic 70s scifi TV series 1999 .]]> 284 Robert Jeschonek 1736168703 Tony 4
The theme of this anthology is as the title describes - stories told in the style of 1970s sci-fi. Sci-fi in the 70s didn't really have a single style, just as it doesn't today - or, really, anytime in between. And these stories do represent a variety of styles, many of which do feel as though they could have been written in the 70s.

The opening few stories do seem to have taken their inspiration from some of the silliness of sci-fi TV of the 70s, and I was starting to get a little bored with the constant irreverence. Then I reached "Bringing Down the Mona Lisa" by Ian Douglas, and I was immediately engaged again. It remains, in my opinion, the best of the bunch, although Craig Martelle, Annie Reed, and Dean Wesley Smith all contributed excellent stories, and Peter David's Star Wars / Star Trek homage "Push Comes to Shove" was a lot of fun.

Merged review:

I went in on the Kickstarter for this book a couple of years ago, but I haven't get around to reading it until now. Like most anthologies, it contains a variety of stories and styles, and not every story is likely to appeal to every reader. Overall though, I think the standard is pretty good.

The theme of this anthology is as the title describes - stories told in the style of 1970s sci-fi. Sci-fi in the 70s didn't really have a single style, just as it doesn't today - or, really, anytime in between. And these stories do represent a variety of styles, many of which do feel as though they could have been written in the 70s.

The opening few stories do seem to have taken their inspiration from some of the silliness of sci-fi TV of the 70s, and I was starting to get a little bored with the constant irreverence. Then I reached "Bringing Down the Mona Lisa" by Ian Douglas, and I was immediately engaged again. It remains, in my opinion, the best of the bunch, although Craig Martelle, Annie Reed, and Dean Wesley Smith all contributed excellent stories, and Peter David's Star Wars / Star Trek homage "Push Comes to Shove" was a lot of fun.]]> 3.43 2021 Space: 1975: Space Opera Stories with a 1970s Twist
author: Robert Jeschonek
name: Tony
average rating: 3.43
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/04/15
date added: 2024/10/01
shelves: anthology, bingo-2022, science-fiction
review:
I went in on the Kickstarter for this book a couple of years ago, but I haven't get around to reading it until now. Like most anthologies, it contains a variety of stories and styles, and not every story is likely to appeal to every reader. Overall though, I think the standard is pretty good.

The theme of this anthology is as the title describes - stories told in the style of 1970s sci-fi. Sci-fi in the 70s didn't really have a single style, just as it doesn't today - or, really, anytime in between. And these stories do represent a variety of styles, many of which do feel as though they could have been written in the 70s.

The opening few stories do seem to have taken their inspiration from some of the silliness of sci-fi TV of the 70s, and I was starting to get a little bored with the constant irreverence. Then I reached "Bringing Down the Mona Lisa" by Ian Douglas, and I was immediately engaged again. It remains, in my opinion, the best of the bunch, although Craig Martelle, Annie Reed, and Dean Wesley Smith all contributed excellent stories, and Peter David's Star Wars / Star Trek homage "Push Comes to Shove" was a lot of fun.

Merged review:

I went in on the Kickstarter for this book a couple of years ago, but I haven't get around to reading it until now. Like most anthologies, it contains a variety of stories and styles, and not every story is likely to appeal to every reader. Overall though, I think the standard is pretty good.

The theme of this anthology is as the title describes - stories told in the style of 1970s sci-fi. Sci-fi in the 70s didn't really have a single style, just as it doesn't today - or, really, anytime in between. And these stories do represent a variety of styles, many of which do feel as though they could have been written in the 70s.

The opening few stories do seem to have taken their inspiration from some of the silliness of sci-fi TV of the 70s, and I was starting to get a little bored with the constant irreverence. Then I reached "Bringing Down the Mona Lisa" by Ian Douglas, and I was immediately engaged again. It remains, in my opinion, the best of the bunch, although Craig Martelle, Annie Reed, and Dean Wesley Smith all contributed excellent stories, and Peter David's Star Wars / Star Trek homage "Push Comes to Shove" was a lot of fun.
]]>