The Soldier’s Wife by Margaret Leroy (a letter)

The Soldier’s Wife
by Margaret Leroy
copyright: 2011
publisher:  Hyperion
format:  paperback ARC
pages:  392
format: paperback ARC
source:  publisher

Back Cover:  As World War II draws closer and closer to Guernsey, Vivienne de la Mare knows that there will be sacrifices to be made. Not just for herself, but for her two young daughters and for her mother-in-law, for whom she cares while her husband is away fighting. What she does not expect is that she will fall in love with one of the enigmatic German soldiers who take up residence in the house next door to her home. As their relationship intensifies, so do the pressures on Vivienne. Food and resources grow scant, and the restrictions placed upon the residents of the island grow with each passing week. Though Vivienne knows the perils of her love affair with Gunther, she believes that she can keep their relationship and her family safe. But when she becomes aware of the full brutality of the Occupation, she must decide if she is willing to risk her personal happiness for the life of a stranger.

 

Dear Suey,¹

I know that you are on vacation, or just coming back from your trip. I hope you had a great time, and cannot wait to hear the details.

I must tell you, I have recently read a beautiful breathtaking story. I have to tell you about it because I know that you like character driven stories and stories that deal with emotions; love.  It is a book for a summer morning while sitting outside enjoying the quiet moments before the day starts or maybe even better for when the day is about to end. It is a book for those quiet moments that also happen while sitting inside during a rainstorm or maybe even on a cold winter’s night.  I think it is a perfect book to suit the mood for a quick read that also has layers of emotion. It is a book that beckons you to leave behind your busyness while it immerses you into the world of Vivienne de la Mare, a fictional character whose story takes place on the Isle of Guernsey during World War II, living under German occupation.  It is an endearing, and soulful story² that relays truths of life; the beautiful and bitter.

You may be thinking; “Deanna, how can a book centered around World War II be a perfect book for a quick read that satisfies the mood for a story layered with emotions?” My answer is; The Soldier’s Wife by Margaret Leroy is a story that lulled me into its depths and before I realized, I was immersed. I was unable to come up for breath as the story beckoned me to remain steadfast. It was a quick read as it flowed in perfect rhythm of life; it did not require much thought only immersion.   I was swept away by the emotions within these pages; responsibility, loneliness, wrong choices, friendship, love found, sadness and relationship connections and lack thereof.  This story is truly one of relationships with facets of the 1940’s subtly and smoothly woven throughout. 

Without doubt, The Soldier’s Wife is a breathtaking story that gripped me; had me holding my breath, gut wrenched with emotion, and thoughts intertwined with Vivienne’s.  This story fully enveloped my being. Sure there is some predictability, and yes, at times you must just go with the story when the believability was slightly shaky, but I did not find that hard to do.  For me, the author's writing was fabulous as she wove together historical fiction laced with relationships and love; giving me a piece of time which was revealed bit by bit throughout the story, and done seamlessly. My heart thumped with pleasure and intensity over the relationships within this beautiful yet lulling story; breathtaking.  Have you noticed that I keep using the word breathtaking? I cannot help its use; it fits, and best describes my experience.

I felt empathy toward Vivienne. Empathy toward her incompatible ill marriage. Empathy towards her loneliness and responsibilities. Empathy towards a love found.  I liked her, but did not always agree with her choices. I found myself at one point filled with sadness over a decision, and wondering how things would/could/should be.³  There were aspects that I wished to be different within these pages. Upon reflection, these wishes are even stronger.  For these reasons, I would like to find fault with the story, and for a brief moment, I did.⁴  But, ultimately, I cannot. The Soldier's Wife is of life circumstances, and the bitter truth is; life does not always grant our wishes.  We must make choices; right or wrong.

I was not only swept away by the story of The Soldier’s Wife, I found myself utterly absorbed by the world of Guernsey. I found the dynamics of this island of interest besides the fact that I was woefully unaware of its existence.  Yes, the story is a little lean on revealing the hard times of the islanders, but for me, Margaret Leroy’s writing gave me insights; visualization of setting and atmosphere, style of clothing, social attitudes/expectations, food, rationing, and the tension of war. I gained a sense of this time in history.

Suey, the bottom line is;  You should be ready to spend an evening with The Soldier’s Wife because this is an un-put-down-able book. Scrumptious chocolates and a box of tissue is in order during this read as your heart will thump with overwhelming emotion. A fantastic, subtle historical fiction woven within intricate relationships of life and love that relays truths of life; the beautiful and bitter.

I hope that you will enjoy this book as much as I did. I think this book will suit you, and I am very curious if you will agree.

I must run now; Isaiah and Grace must be put to bed. They don’t seem to yet be able to tend to their nightly needs without me hanging over them. sigh.

Anxiously awaiting your thoughts,
-Deanna-

P.S. What do you think of the book cover?  I like it. I think the subtle colors with the woman looking towards the sea conveys the beauty and soulfulness of the story.

P.P.S. There is a cool bit about the Isle of Guernsey in the back of the book. I appreciated this part greatly; enlightening.

P.P.P.S. I was going to send you my copy of this book, but am finding myself attached. I may read it again down the road.  Because I loved the book, AND want you to read it too, I am going to send you a book via Amazon. This actually is easier for me anyway, I hate making trips to the post office; my lazy butt just does not want to be annoyed with waiting in line. How come they are so slow with service?   Besides, I want to support this author.  Anyway, be on the lookout for it to arrive at your home in the next week or so.⁵

 Footnotes:

1.  I read a post by Caspette at The Narrative Causality where she reviewed a book by writing a letter. I thought it was an interesting way to read about her thoughts. With that in mind, I have decided, now and then, I will write a letter to a friend, acquaintance, family, or fellow blogger to express my thoughts on a book read. I plan to try and choose a person that I think the book would appeal to.  I hope you enjoy this format of sharing my thoughts.

2. I must warn you, be ready for this to be a tear-jerker; have tissue on hand. Also, if you are one to be easily embarrassed, then maybe you should not read this story in public especially towards the end.  Another warning, be ready for time to slip away because it will and it does so without any regrets, at least no regrets from me.

3.   SPOILER WARNING:

The decision that Vivienne made to leave Gunther really tore at my heart. I found myself a bit angry at her. How could she? And without confronting him.  I really loved their  relationship.  I liked how Gunther respected and treated Vivienne. I liked him.  Even though I did feel for them and felt them well matched, I wonder.... would their relationship fare well once the war ended or would that have been the end of their relationship too?  They both were married so did they truly love one another or were they filling a void that should have remained empty? I think they did love one another. I would like to think they would have lived life together once the war was over.  The truth is, I doubt they would have.  In ways, I felt Gunther was the stronger of the two with deeper and truer feelings.  A sad story. They were doomed from the start, and what is even more sad is that Vivienne had to go on in life empty; without Gunther. Although, she was blessed, and that, by the way, was one of the saddest moments for me when it was revealed that Vivienne and Gunther had a child;a son. The saddest moment because Gunther died not ever knowing of this child; even that Vivienne was pregnant.

4. SPOILER WARNING

The faults that I would like to find are... Vivienne and Guenther lacked in way of communication. I wished they were open with one another regarding their feelings. I wish Vivienne confronted Guenther with her suspicions that he turned her into the authorities because at the very least they could have parted ways with hope instead of disappointment and sadness. I wish Guenther confronted Vivienne with his truth. I also wish he shared with her his saddest moment; his son’s death. Truly, I wish they were more willing to be vulnerable with one another in regards to speaking truth, and questioning.  That could have saved a time of hurt during their last weeks of living in the same location.  Upon reflection, I realized that many relationships find themselves with a barrier which impedes communication. Life does not always grant us our wishes and the story certainly was told realistically; the beautiful and bitter.

5. For anyone else who may read this letter; if this type of book appeals to you then you must read it too. I do not think you will be disappointed. If you do read the book, then please let me know your thoughts as I am always interested.

6. Suey is a blogging friend whose friendship has extended beyond our blog comments. She is one fantastic woman, AND we have very similar reading taste. You can check her blog out at It's All About Books

_________

I just saw that GoodReads is giving away 50 copies. The giveaway runs until July 18th. Details Here

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Daughter
Iron Fey Series, book two
by Julie Kagawa
copyright: 2010
publisher: Harlequin Teen
format: paperback
pages: 350
source: own

Back Cover:Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.  Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

First Sentence:
The Iron King stood before me, magnificent in his beauty, silver hair whipping about like an unruly waterfall.

My Thoughts:  A simple pleasure is obtained when a favorite chocolate is eaten; it’s absolutely yummy all the way to end, but yet there is still a desire for more once finished. When the piece of chocolate comes to an end, and another is laying in wait, I grab it, and start the devouring process once again.  While that chocolate is still very yummy it is not quiet as satisfying - not the same intense satisfaction of yumminess; saturation and quality are factors.  That is how I feel about The Iron Daughter, book two of the Iron Fey series.  While it was still a captivating read, and I most certainly devoured, I was not fully satisfied with it as I was with the first book, The Iron King.  Here is why...

This time, a few events were a bit too unbelievable even though I know this is a fantasy, coming-to-age type book.  Meghan avoided many negative circumstances¹, and I would find myself saying, “really?”.  Not only that, I felt the plot was a bit rushed and chock full of the quest².   This did not help me from rolling my eyes numerous times.  The Iron Daughter started to loose a bit of its yumminess, and allure when the focus switched from the fey world to the quest.  I love the fey world; I wanted more of its inner workings as it is full of awesome stuff.³

Yet, through it all, I was riveted, albeit,  at some points a bit more than at other points; this I cannot deny that.   Even with a few bumps along the way, I continued to really like this series. The story really is yummy; easily digested & ever so sweet while reading.  I continued to unabashedly love the triangle between Meghan, Puck and Ash.  My heart thumped with each encounter especially between Meghan and Ash. No denying, I am on team Ash, that’s true. Still though, Puck tugs at the heartstrings.   You know what I liked even better? The fact that this love triangle complemented the story fantastically, and that even with a few annoyances, the story flowed well; the pacing kept my attention.  It reads smoothly, and quickly

The ending met my expectation of this book with flying colors!  It stayed true to feelings, and the characters. I was intensely reading to see what decision would be made. Seriously, the way things played out in the end is what psyched me up for the next book.

Bottom Line:  Yummy chocolate, but not quiet as tantalizing as The Iron King.  Even so, it does provide an interesting fey world, and a heart thumping love interest. It does fulfill the desire of a quick, easily digested story that is captivating even though it does not fully satisfy.

Book Cover:  I love this cover. I found myself admiring it time and time again while reading the story. The colors work for me, and bonus, there is a texture feeling which adds to the appeal. This is my favorite cover of the series.

Footnotes:

1. I find it very difficult to “review” a book in a series because I try my best to not reveal any spoilers.  That means, I cannot shoot straight and to the point with my thoughts. I can give you an idea, but I will not give you an exact example. My example may influence whereas without it you would be neutral. Also, examples could potentially ruin the story and that I do not want to do.

2. The first half of the book deals with the Winter Court, and then we find ourselves dealing with the iron issue which takes the characters away from the fey world which then led to many unbelievable events, for me. I think mostly, what irks me, is how a young girl can go from pretty much knowing nothing in way of defense but yet can defend herself quiet well. Enough said.

3. The most exciting and riveting part of this book was when the story was taking place in the Winter Court.

Sunday Post: books, books, books, and a few other things

My thoughts were written on Saturday evening.

Outside My Window..... this weather is so weird; 70 degree, rainy, humid, not humid, 80 degrees but mostly 70 degrees.

I am Listening to.....  nothing, it is silent.

I am Thinking.....about my bookish pet peeves. I do not understand why publishers decided it best to NOT number books in a series. You know, they will not have book 2 in blah blah series labeled on the spin or cover. Drives me nuts that I have to search out the series book list to know if I have the books in order.  Another thing peeving me, why not a table of contents telling me now many chapters are in said book, or even which page a chapter/part/section starts. Grrr… I really dislike having to flip through the book for that information.
Do you have any bookish pet peeves?

I  am Grateful for..... those who have put up with my rotten, irritable mood of late; my children, and husband…oh yeah, my mom, sister, and Jody too.

I am Reading..... a book with Suey; A Crown of Swords by Robert Jordan. I am listening to this one on audio.  I have made quite a bit of head way in this book, and I am 99.9% sure that I will indeed like this book better Lord of Chaos .  I did start my re-read of Voyager by Diana Gabaldon, and wow, this book is still incredibly engaging. I am enjoying every single minute with this book; it still satisfies greatly.  I started reading The Maze Runner by James Dashner, and I am being blown away by this story. Three words; fascinating, intriguing, thrilling.

Read Alongs, and Group Read... one thing I love about this book blogging world is the sense of community. We can come together through this mind-boggling land of the internet and gush/talk about books that we are reading.  Read alongs, group reads, buddy reads facilitate this sense of community to another/different level.  Because I love dishing books with others, and especially when we are reading it together, I have decided to join in on three book read alongs/group read. If the following books interest you, won’t you consider joining too?

CarrieK. at Books and Movies is hosting:
July Read Along: Blackout by Connie Willis
I have been hearing nothing but good things about Connie Willis, and I am ever so curious.  The description for Blackout only served to increase my curiosity. I checked it out from the library which then propelled me to make the decision that now is the time to read Blackout.  I look forward to reading and discussing this book with the other participants.

 G Reads is hosting:
Monday’s Bite: Twilight Re-Read Along. 
Here is the thing, once upon a time – during the mid- 1990s to early 2000s– reading books for my own interest/pleasure took a backseat to books regarding children/parenting/homeschooling. I did not have time to read novels and nor did I desire.  Early summer 2008 found me observing my then 12 year old daughter¹ walking around our home with her face in a book. I wanted to know why she was so mesmerized. I decided to read the books without knowing how fully I would be sucked into the series. I loved the first three books of the Twilight series ², and re-read Twilight several times that summer.  I know Twilight has received a lot backlash from book bloggers, but you know what, they are great fun fictional books that served its purpose with me.  The Twilight books propelled me into writing my thoughts on my blog, and reignited my avid book reading love. Sure, they are not greatest piece of literature, but I don’t care.  I decided to join in on this re-read mostly because I think it will be tons fun, AND I am ever so curious as to if I will like this book as much as I did in 2008, or will I be annoyed.³

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson Group Read  A few bloggers and I decided, while on twitter tweeting away with each other, that we would do a group read of this tome – The Way of Kings. Our read will start in August. The length of time is to be determined as well as other logistics.   I am very, very psyched about this group read because first off, I WANT to read this book in a desperate way but keep putting it off. Secondly, these book bloggers – Carl @ Stainless Steel Droppings,  Memory @ Stella Matutina, Kailana @ The Written World, are fantastic and I think it will be incredibly interesting to get their take on the story as we read. Very excited I am, indeed.  

Carrie @ Reading to Know is hosting:
The Chronicles of Narnia Reading Challenge
This has become a yearly event for me and EJ.  I have come to look forward to July and time spent in Narnia.  EJ and I have decided to read together The Silver Chair. To enhance our reading, we will also make our way through a few resources focusing on this book alone.
I may also have the family listen to a different book in its audiobook format from Focus on the Family. That is still in debate.  I strongly encourage you to join in on this absolutely fantastic challenge. It truly has been a blessing.

I am photographing..... my nephew’s “Welcome Baby” party.

I am Listing..... books that I want to read.; still.

On my Zune..... last week, I wondered if I would still be obsessively listening to Josh Groban, and the answer is sort of. If I allowed myself, I would still be obsessing, but I purposefully tried to move on, and all that would work was random soundtracks. I have been listening to a handful which will be featured on my Song of the Week post next Friday if I get my butt in gear with writing posts.

 To Live my Faith..... considering joining Reading My Bible in 90 Days as it was successful for me last year, and currently I am unsuccessful with reading through my Bible in one year. My 11 year old is putting me to shame. Although, I am also considering making up the month I have missed in reading by utilizing the Reading in 90 Days pace. If I did that, then I would catch up to EJ by mid-July. What do you think? Any thoughts on the direction I should take with reading my Bible?

I am Hoping and Praying..... for peace.

Around the House..... chaos.

The Children this week..... in short, they are all good. In long, they are chaos. In positive, Benji has an accounting internship job for the summer, the girls are busy, IJ is doing well, and GD is having a grand time with no life responsibilities.

 Internet Readings: A La Carte .... 

Patrick Rothfuss -  Fanmail FAQ: Looking for Good Books….  Fantastic post, and frankly, I can see this becoming a challenge type list for many folks (most likely me in some way). Besides, I just love reading his posts.

Alternate Readality – Thoughts & Questions
Jenny’s blog has quickly made its way onto my list of blogs that I read daily. With this post, she asks about comments, reviewing books, and more. Check out the post and comment.  Of course, I am sorely lacking in the commenting factor these days, but I do plan on adding my thoughts to her post because I have something to say about ever topic she raises within this post.

Stainless Steel Droppings – Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
When Carl posted his thoughts on this book, he reinforced my desire to read this story. I plan on reading it this coming Autumn for RIP.

 

Cycling Stats ⁴

Bike Miles for June:  
91.75  miles

Bike Miles Total:
196.99

Opening Post Photo:  Photo of my nephew’s feet. Taken by Benji on June 18, 2011.  Once my sister sends out her birth announcements, I plan on sharing a couple of photos that Benji took. They are beautiful.

Footnotes:

1. Thinking back on this, I am a bit surprised that I was okay that my 12 year old reading these books. I would GREATLY DISCOURAGE  my soon-to-be 12 year old - avid reading daughter – from reading these books; want her to wait until she is a bit older.

2. I always find reading my older posts to be rather interesting. The change that has taken place with my writing and formatting intrigues.  Besides, it is fun to read what I was thinking years ago. If you follow the link, don’t expect anything land sliding, but what is new about that? 

3. I have not watched the movies and nor will I. I think they look lame and well, the actor who plays Edward was a big turn off; sorry to all you Twilight movie loving people. 

4. Grrr…. I rode only once this past week. All that is about to change as I put myself on a schedule. I need a schedule to help manage my need for “me stuff” while also being available to the children during the summer. Guess what…my wake up call will be 0415; daily.

Read to Me Picture Book: Four Fantastic Princess Stories

Danielle at There's a Book is hosting the Read to Me - Picture Book Challenge in 2011  The goal of the challenge is ... "to read with the kids in your life and/or enjoy picture books in general."

~ ~  GD (now, age 5) is not at all interested in participating in the narrations. She balks at the thought. I have decided to not do any “formal” narrations with her because ultimately here, the goal is for GD to love reading.  I will observe her reactions, and write down any spontaneous responses she gives.

Once I start back with the narrations, down the road, do you have any ideas, tips, suggestions in how develop the skill of narration within GD?

Princess Grace and the Little Lost Kitten
by Jeanna Young & Jacqueline Johnson
Illustrator: Omar Aranda
copyright: 2011
Publisher:  Zonderkidz
Source: Own – Birthday gift to GD from Aunt Darcy & family

Description:  Princess Grace promised her father she would care for the kittens she found. But Poppy, the curious one, has run away. Princess Grace must find him, even if it means searching the entire kingdom... even braving the Black Woods. Along the way, she remembers a parable Jesus told about God's great love for us and how he, too, searches for each one who is lost.

Me: I liked this story a whole lot.  On the surface, it is a sweet, fun book about princesses and kittens.  Digging a bit deeper, this story has depth as it talks about love, protection, and importance of taking care of those you love.  Even deeper; this story is told in the fashion of a parable found in the Bible – Matthew 18: 12-14.  Princess Grace is told subtly, yet all the goodness cannot be missed in this wonderful book.  The interaction between the King, his daughters (the princesses), and the kittens is fantastic. The relationships are wholesome and portrayed fabulously.  GD loves this book; she frequently requests it as our read. Throughout the story, she remains fascinated and engaged as she discovers new details, asks questions, and give her thoughts.  You really cannot go wrong with having this book on your shelves.

Thank you Darcy for gifting this book to GD for her birthday.

Princess Joy’s Birthday Blessing
by Jeanna Young & Jacqueline Johnson
Illustrator: Omar Aranda
copyright: 2011
Publisher:  Zonderkidz
Source: Own – Birthday gift to GD from Aunt Darcy & family

 

Description: Princess Joy can't wait for her birthday. There will be treats, games, and an enormous cake with pink icing! But when the other princes and princesses can't come, and princess Joy finds out, she comes up with a surprising plan to fill her day with special guests and unexpected gifts. Will it work? Her idea comes from a parable Jesus told about a party a lot like hers.

Me:  One fantastic book that shows the importance of giving instead of only receiving.  What I love best about this book, and the Princess Grace story is how Godly character, and Biblical truths are woven fabulously throughout the book.  A storyline that does not bore as it really does entertain. Not only that, the illustrations are wonderful; they help to draw the reader into the story.  The other element that I love about these books are the Parable Thoughts which are found in the back of the book. These thoughts have proven helpful when I want to expand or point out a concept/idea, etc.  Simply put, this is a fantastic, entertaining book.

The Princess and the Three Knights
by Karen Kingsbury
illustrator: Gabrielle Grimard
copyright: 2009
publisher:  Zonderkidz
Source: Own – a gift to GD from Aunt Darcy

Description: The King challenges three knights to prove their love for his daughter. True love wins in Karen Kingsbury’s heart-warming tale of inner beauty and devotion.

Me:  Oh, Oh, how I love this book!  This is probably one of the best Christian children books I have read. One of my complaints in regards to Christian children literature is that the scriptural message overtakes the story. Where the story itself has no depth, and the plot elements are forced in order to drive home the ‘message’; the books seem fluffy.  This book, The Princess and the Three Knights, is a wonderful story where truths are written but do not overwhelm. There is depth; it is not fluff. Yet, it is fully entertaining.   The story is based on 1 Corinthians 13: 4, 7  -  Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.    Truly, if you want a wonderful princess story that focuses on the truths of love as shown in the Bible then this book is for you; for your child.  If you want a wonderful princess story that is full of goodness but you are not looking for a spiritual connection, this book is for you too. Outside of the the scriptural reference in the beginning of this book and the very last page, the scripture is not pounded into your mind. Rather,  the importance that love protects, trusts, hopes and perseveres is woven smoothly, and beautifully into the story. I must not forget to mention the illustrations: they are BEAUTIFUL. The illustrations beautifully complement the story. They mesmerize and take the reader into the world of the princess. Frequently, I will just pick this book up to admire the cover and illustrations throughout this story.   

My sister, Darcy, gifted this book to GD during our Royal Wedding sleep over party.  A perfect book for the wedding event.  I read this book aloud to the girls late into the eve before the wedding, and all three devoured the story and illustrations. It is a book that not only fed into their princess loving minds, but also fed into my sister and my princess loving, fairy tale loving minds. This is a book that gave the cousins (ages 6, 4, and 4) and adults alike a moment of reading bliss.

The Princess and the Pea
by Hans Christian Andersen
Retold by: Susanna Davidson
illustrator: Mike Gordon
copyright: 2004
publisher: Usborne (young reading series, level 1)
Source: Own – a birthday gift from us to GD

Description: Prince Patrick wants to Marry a real princess but they're not easy to find. Still, anything is possible with the help of a cousin, a witch and pea.

Me:  This Usborne edition is a perfect match with GD as we venture into our first chapter story.  I like how the chapters are concise yet they do not feel fluff and boring.  The small, concise and simple chapters have enabled us to read one chapter daily until the story was finished.  Before we started the next chapter, I would refresh GD’ memory of the events in the prior chapter. She did a good job with staying engaged and focused on this story throughout the entire read.  She did a wonderful job with our refreshing sessions.  The illustrations, and comic book quote bubbles added interest, and humor along the way.  Both GD and I liked talking about the illustrations in relation to the story; they proved to be good story prompters and motivation to ‘discuss’ the book.  This edition proved to be a lovely rendition of a wonderful fairy tale classic.  Bonus; a cd was included for a read along with page turner prompts. We have yet to utilize the cd, but GD is greatly looking forward to the experience.

P.S. hopefully this post makes sense. I was falling asleep during editing and uploading. I do not want to stay awake any longer, NOR do I want to wait until tomorrow to post.

Update: Book Challenges

 

Signing up for book challenges, to me, is like going grocery shopping when you are hungry. Or, like sitting down to dinner starving, and you have a large plate so you fill full.  Every year, around December/January, my eyes widen with anticipation and a huge desire to partake in all that tickles my fancy rises up and cannot be tamed. I sign up knowing full well that I will not complete most, but I give it a go…at least in my mind. Yeah, I take on more than I can digest, and more than room is available in life. 

I really need to reign in my fancy next year, AND keep in mind that I am a mood reader. I need to fess up to that fact because being a mood reader totally gets in the way of a list created for a year.

The following challenges are linked to updates, if you are curious, take a look.

Challenges with Progress:

2011 TBR Pile Challenge – I am thinking that this one is bombing AND that is fully bothering me BECAUSE this is the one I MOST wanted to complete.  I am determined to complete it but my book choices are not so hot; several DNF books.  This one should have been a piece of cake, but as it turns out, it is not. It is falling victim just like all my other whims of the moment.

Read My Bible in a Year Challenge – I am struggling a bit.

Read To Me Picture Book Challenge – I am doing fairly well with this challenge.

Ireland Reading Challenge 2011 – Completed in May 2011

1001 Children’s Books You Should Read Challenge – Completed one age group; four more to go.

Book-In-A-Series Completion Challenge – making some progress

Challenges with No Progress but Hopeful:

1001 Books You Must Read Challenge

Take A Chance Challenge 3

Haruki Murakami Reading Challenge 2011 – I only need to read two of his books AND I own those two books AND I love this author’s work SO why I have NOT read ONE book yet?  Grrr…

2011 Reading from My Shelves Project – I really need to get going on this one. Surely, this one cannot be too hard.

So, what do you think?  Pretty crazy I am; aren’t I?  What are my chances for completing these challenges?  One challenge maybe I will complete? Two? Three?  None?  Bigger question, will I repeat the same sign-up intensity as I did in Dec/Jan?

To keep updated, or for further information, take a look at My Challenges pages.

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

The Iron King
Iron Fey Series, book one
by Julie Kagawa
copyright 2010
publisher: Harlequin Teen
format: paperback
pages: 363
source: own

Back Cover: Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined.
Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home.
When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.
But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart

First Sentence:  Ten years ago, on my sixth birthday, my father disappeared.

My Thoughts:  I have not been reading a whole lot of YA books as of late.¹   The lack of depth and layers for at least the ones I have chosen would only leave me unsatisfied.  However, there are times that a YA book can fully satisfy with its few layers. A yummy treat.

The Iron King is like sugar; sweet milk chocolate. A yummy, yummy treat that I crave, and it satisfies those moments when dark chocolate is just too rich, and long-lasting.  Yes, The Iron King is like sugar; easily digestible, and instantly grabbed my attention. It gave me reading enjoyment bliss. A pleasurable yummy experience as the storyline was highly intriguing.

Like all sweet milk chocolate, the pleasure does not last. The speed for which I read The Iron King had me devouring it up within a matter of two nights with no reading during the days. The story moves quickly, and  I could not get enough into my reading mind.  Once I was done, my mind started to revolt as the plunge of coming down from a sugar high went into effect. Therein lies the problem with milk chocolate; it is ever so yummy but quickly goes through my system while leaving me wanting more and more.   The Iron King certainly captured me, and I did indeed devour it but it did not leave a whole lot for me to mull over while I waited for my next yummy treat in the form of The Iron Daughter.²  

It is true, for me, The Iron King is not a deep book, but that is one reason why I liked it. It fit my reading mood perfectly.  A simple straight-forth story told in a first person narrative; through Meghan.  I was immediately captured by Meghan’s narrative tone; she intrigued me, and I instantly wanted to tag along on her journey.  The manner for which she relays the events of this time in her life allowed for a quick pace which never bored or slowed.  I was immersed in Meghan’s relationships, confusion, understanding, and the path she journeyed.  As she learns about the Fey world; I learned.  I was fascinated, and highly intrigued, and not once did I feel that the story strayed into a land of confusion. All the elements fit, and worked.

Of course, the relationships is what had made my heart thump; a triangle was formed.  The relationship between Meaghan and Robbie, and then Ash provided instant intrigue.  These characters played off of one another in such a manner that the storyline was truly complemented.  Meghan is a likable character; courageous, loyal, and intelligent.  Robbie/Puck is a jokester, but he cares deeply as it is shown by his actions. Ash is dark, and very alluring. I really liked how he came in on the scene, and his badness. I do not think the darkness that surrounds him left, but the layers that were added to his intrigue  heightened my curiosity and desire to know more about Ash, and wanting him to form a solid relationship with Meghan.  Still, I cannot help but feel a pull towards Robbie/Puck.³

While I unabashedly enjoyed this sweet sugar high through the triangle relationship, I also remained very intrigued by the whole Fey world. I really feel that there is many layers waiting to be explored within that world. The Iron King certainly laid a solid foundation for the stories to follow.⁴   I seriously could not wait until I was able to ingest more of this yummy milk chocolate. 

Bottom Line: A fantastic read that was a wonderfully simple, and yummy sweet treat. It was easily, and quickly digested, while still being able to fully satisfy.  You will find yourself immersed in the story of discovering one’s destiny, love, friendship while traveling to a fantastical fey world.

The Cover: I like, it intrigues. But, I cannot figure out why all the lines and squiggles over the character’s head. I have decided that the lines and squiggles added to the intrigue, and leaves room to imagine what Meghan fully looks like.  I like the cover.

Footnotes:

1. At time of this reading, I have not read many YA books this year. It seems though, after reading this series that I have been inundating myself with YA stories.

2. I know for a fact, if I had more of this yummy milk chocolate laying around in the form of The Iron Daughter, that I  would have not immediately wrote my thoughts out for this review. Since I only purchased one book, this one, I had to wait to enjoy, satisfy and indulge myself further with the sweetness and bliss that Julie Kagawa provided in way of Meghan’s journey into the fey world. I corrected that error by purchasing book 2 and 3 at the same time because I was not going to go through another wait period.

3. Even though I was torn between Ash and Puck, I must be clear, if I were Meghan, I would choose Ash; no contest. My sense of emotion for Puck was all related to his friendship and sincere concern for Meghan.

4. By this time of posting my thoughts on The Iron King, I have read the entire three book series. I will post my thoughts for The Iron Daughter, and The Iron Queen in the coming weeks.

Sunday Post: highs and lows of life

My thoughts were written on Saturday evening.

 

Outside My Window..... the weather has been a mix of rain and sun throughout the week while hovering around the 70s or so.

I am Listening to.....  the complaints of children. Fun stuff, I tell you.

I am Thinking.....about how my mind and body revolts when it lacks sleep, is emotionally tired, is physical tired, and just plain old tired of giving. Basically, for those who do not live with me should be glad of that fact for the last week has been one where I have lacked patience, motivation, and connection.

I  am Grateful for..... IJ’s health.

I am Pondering..... what an idiot I am.  I know better. I know that IJ is attracted to medications. I know that he will try to open his medication bottle. Yet, I did not put it away properly. An idiot, I am.

I am Reading..... a book with Suey; A Crown of Swords by Robert Jordan. I am listening to this one on audio.  So far, I think I am liking this book much more than the one prior, Lord of Chaos.  I am going to start my re-read of Voyager by Diana Gabaldon. Lately, I have been craving Claire and Jamie so I figure I should quench that craving with a re-read. I plan on reading this book slowly.

I have just finished two books this past week so I am currently a bit stuck on what to read next. Wanna help me choose? If so, which one should I read next from the following list: Haunting Warrior by Erin Quinn, The Maze Runner by James Dashner,  Viking Warrior, book 1 of Strongbow Saga by Judson Roberts,  The Wildest Heart by Rosemary Rogers. I have placed a poll on my blog’s sidebar; please vote for my next book to be read, and let me know here if you did vote. Thanks.

Did Not Finish Reading... this list seems to piling up, unfortunately. The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie. I have set this book aside, for now. Not because I do not like the story or the writing because I do. I set it aside because my mood is not suited at this moment for the violence within these pages. I do plan on picking it back up, soon.   The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by  Stieg Larsson. I am not certain if I will pick this book back up again. I read for 100 pages and found it to be rather slow going; dull. The only thing that will push me forward to reading it again is because I cannot get out of my head that there has to be more to this book because if not, then I really do not get its popularity.  The Fiddler's Gun by A.S. Peterson. Okay, another book that I actually do like but is not fitting my mood. For this one, I think the mood issue is in the pacing of the book, and that there is not a whole lot of action. I read up to about page 75 before I set aside. I will pick this one up again; later.

I am photographing.....many baby photos were taken 10 days or so ago, but this last week, not much except for a few of IJ.

I am Listing..... books that I want to read.

I am Creating.....nothing but my daughter, ED - 13, created a bow & arrow from a tree branch for IJ. It is fairly functional, and looks pretty neat.

On my Zune..... Josh Groban; specifically his Awake album. I LOVE his music. LOVE IT! This particular past week, JG’s music has been a perfect match for my mood. But really, I should move on to something else this next week. The question is, will I? I have my doubts.

To Live my Faith..... reading my Bible has fallen a bit to the wayside, unfortunately. EJ, my 11 year old, has been faithfully reading through the Bible this whole year. She only falls behind by one day or so. Impressive.

I am Hoping and Praying.....sort of a sign as to where I am at because I have not been hoping and praying for anything this past week, and I should.

Around the House..... laundry. Oh, how I love laundry. It just always keeps on giving and never goes away. Sarcastic, I am being.

From the Kitchen..... scrounging, and make your meal type of nights. Yeah, I was that kind of mom this past week.

One of My Favorite Things.....riding my bike, so why did I not ride once last week??? grrr...

The Children this week..... This past Thursday, IJ got into his medication. I panicked big time. I found the bottle opened on the counter with half the pills missing. Freaked out, I did. Panicked, beyond reason.  Trouble is that IJ cannot communicate well so trying to figure out what he did was terribly difficult and frightening.  When all was said and done, he threw most of the pills into our plant garden, and most likely took 3 pills (his dose is ½ pill daily). I found all but three, and I knew for sure that he took too many when 30 minutes later his head plunked down on the kitchen table; he was snowed. I called his doctor, and he seemed to think that he would be alright as along as he was not hypotensive.  Through a series of calls, I got my hands on a blood pressure cuff, took his b/p which was normal. Before taking his b/p, I had a good feeling that he was well because his respirations and pulse were normal while he slept very soundly.
IJ slept from 1430 until 0800 the next morning with one small moment of being awake.  He is fine; he is well. The medication is hidden.

Mom of the Year Moment... besides the medication incident, the other moment would be awarded for the fact that I attended a Robert Plant concert on Thursday evening. The same Thursday as IJ’s mishap.  To my defense, my mom stayed with him and I texted her throughout the whole concert. I knew he would be fine before we left AND would sleep. We also were only 40 minutes or so away at Ravinia. Another thing, I tried getting rid of the tickets to two other people with no takers and the thought of letting them sit was painful especially since IJ was in no imminent danger. The concert? Well, Robert Plant still has a good voice, but his performance was a bit flat. I suppose, to be fair, my mind was not really there anyway.  Robert and I attended a Robert Plant concert 23 years ago during our first weekend dating. I know I had a better time 23 years ago.  Robert still thought the show on Thursday was good, but then again, he is into Robert Plant’s music more than I am.

Internet Readings: A La Carte .... Challies.com is one site that I read frequently; thought provoking. The following links from Challies.com discuss raising children in church does not guarantee their salvation . I Am Unalarmed,  The Best Improvements.  Wallace at Unputdownables talks about balance in your reading choices; Well Balanced Reading Diet. I found what she had to say to be interesting.  Two Read Alongs have me interested. I have not committed to them, but am seriously thinking that I will. CarrieK. at Books and Movies will be hosting  July Read Along: Blackout by Connie Willis and G Reads will be hosting Monday’s Bite: Twilight Re-Read Along.  Want something fun to do? Take a personality type test. I did, and I have to say that it matches me pretty well. It was interesting to see what type of personality my older three daughters were. Theirs lined up well too. My personality? I am ISFJ  What is yours? One of my daughters, the one who butts heads with me most is INTJ. Interesting.
Do you want a nice green lawn? We do, but have given up on it for the time being. Still, 10 Ways You Can make Your Lawn Care Easier has some tips that we may utilize.

Cycling Stats

Bike Miles for June:  
79  miles

Bike Miles Total:
183.70

Opening Post Photo:  Photo of Isaiah grilling his hotdog as if at a campfire. He is obsessed with fires, and with this grill. Allowing him to cook a hotdog now and then helps to curb his high desire to light the grill on a daily basis.

Song of the Week: Solo Por Ti

This past week, Josh Groban has been my go to music artist, BIG TIME.  More specifically, I have been listening to his album, Awake, over and over again.  I started playing Awake because I owe Suey an email which is forthcoming.¹   Interestingly, I like Awake a whole lot more now than I did a couple of months ago.²  Also, I am much more clear on which songs are my favorites, and which ones are not.  Listening to this album was a perfect match to my mood for this week.

My favorite song, currently, on the Awake album is Solo Por Ti.³   I CRAVE this song each and every time that I listen to Awake; usually when I was driving to and from work which was a lot.  Solo Por Ti spoke to me when I first heard this album a few months ago, but now I MUST listen.  Why do I love this song?  Good question considering that I did not even know what words JG was singing until I looked them up.  Amazing how a song can give me such feeling without knowing the translation, but it did.  Solo Por Ti is beautiful with an edge of sadness; emotion pouring out.  The feeling that washes over me listening to this song is a testament to JG’s talent because when I did finally look up the translation the emotions - beauty, and sadness - are in the words.

What says you?  What do you think of Solo Por Ti? Have you ever been taken by a song even when you did not understand the lyrics?

Who are you listening to this week?  Is there a song this week that has your attention?

Footnotes:
1. Suey at It’s All About Books is the friend who brought me over to the world of Josh Groban fandom.  Who knew that I would like JG’s music so much? I did not until Suey nudge me along by gifting me his first album. Listening to that album done me in, AND started an email chain between Suey and I where we discuss each of JG’s albums; songs we like and why, etc.  I have lagged behind in sharing my thoughts about the Awake album. That is forthcoming; truly, Suey, it is!!!

2. A few months ago, I think I was a bit in Josh Groban overload; I love his first album…LOVE IT, and his 2nd album is fantastic too. When I came to Awake, well, upon first my first few listenings, it did not measure up to the self-titled album, and Closer.

3.  HAVE YOU ever experienced a song with lyrics that you did not understand in words, but understood in emotion?  HAVE YOU ever experienced a song that you loved, or enjoyed even before you translated the words into your mother tongue?  I find it AMAZING how I can understand emotions in a song but not the words. I find it AMAZING how I can like a song as much as I like Solo Por Ti  yet not know the words.  I would skip other songs to listen to this one when I knew that my commute was almost over; my mood demanded.

- I chose this specific video because of the translated lyrics embedded.  Otherwise, as much as I like JG (and I do),  viewing all those  photos during this song is a bit much for me.  Still, better than viewing tons of landscape photos.  (big grin)  I did find another video that I like; perfect combo for me with anime and JG. BUT, I found the anime slightly distracting because I would focus on the scenes and JG would become background music. Still, here is the link, if you are curious. http://youtu.be/ESIyZTFWfPk

 

Baby! Baby! Baby!

 

My newest nephew entered the world on Friday, June 10th and my sister, Darcy, gave birth to her fourth child.  I was present during my sister’s labor and delivery.  I helped her along during labor, and cheered her on during delivery. I was her sister during this time; not her nurse. Even when I was her nurse during her last day in the hospital, I still was her sister which made our conversations, and thoughts, and advice more well…blunt.  My sister did an amazing job. Actually, I think she did an amazing job with the pregnancy itself; I have a strong dislike for pregnancy as we don’t mix well. 

Darcy and Alan with their fourth child

My Mom and I with Darcy and nephew

A little secret, I do not like to bath newborns. It is one aspect of my job that really gives me no pleasure; a chore. I do it though with a smile and with instruction to the parents, but yeah…don’t like bathing newborns. However, giving my sister’s children their first baths after birth is important. A different level.  Important to her, and thus to me. A secret though, I still do not enjoy it.   I gave her newest addition his first bath, AND guess what, I really enjoyed this experience. I actually felt a sense of glowing pleasure within me that I was giving this little one his very first bath just a couple of hours after he took his first breaths in this world.

He loves me already; can’t ya tell?  :D

I LOVE all of my sister’s children, but when I saw this newest nephew of mine this past Tuesday evening, in his home, in his car seat, I felt a pulsing joy in my veins.  A new life in our family. A little boy, a newborn, my nephew.  He is loved!

Thanks Darcy for this newest family member. I look forward to watching him grow, and to see where his life leads.

By the way, I should mention, Darcy’s husband is ever so patient. Not perfect, mind you, but he is a fantastic husband to my sister, and wonderful father to their children.  He is enamored by his newest son.

Side Notes: The birth of my sister’s son has remained nameless here on this blog because she has not officially announced his name to family. His name in print is for her to share.  So you know, I love the name. I really do.  It is unique, at least in this area.  It is strong. It is perfect.

EJ, my 11 year old, stayed over one night with Darcy and baby while they were in the hospital. She was a big help to my sister; company, changing diapers, holding and loving. My sister does not send her babies to the nursery unless medically needed.  Her husband stayed home with their other three children; tending to their needs.

Also, Friday started a 53 hour time period where my life has been consumed with baby being birthed and work. My work week has been very busy; hard to express how busy, but let it be known, I am wiped. I am tired so I have not been around blogs, email, forums, twitter, facebook, texting or even on my phone talking. Not much.  I have, however, read two books.  I guess, escaping into a good story helps to breathe life into this tired body and mind.

A few more photos; enjoy!

 

Queen By Right by Anne Easter Smith

Queen By Right
by Anne Easter Smith
copyright 2011
publisher:  Touchstone, a division of Simon & Schuster
format: paperback
pages: 484
source:   publisher
Read for Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tour

 

Back Cover: History remembers  Cecily of York standing on the steps of the Market Cross at Ludlow, facing an attacking army while holding the hands of her two young sons.  Queen By Right reveals how she came to step into her destiny, beginning with her marriage to Richard, duke of York, whom she meets when she is eight and he is twelve.  Raised together in her father’s household, they become a true love match and together face personal tragedies, pivotal events of history, and deadly political intrigue.  All of England knows that Richard has a clear claim to the throne, and when King Henry VI becomes unfit to rule, Cecily must put aside her hopes and fears and help her husband decide what is right for their family and their country.

First Sentence:
A scream pierced Cecily’s dreamless sleep.

My Thoughts: Wow,  I was immediately drawn into Cecily’s story as she relays her past.  We journey with Cecily from her her childhood, meeting Richard, and her life during marriage. I was intrigued, and remained intrigued throughout the entire book.

The history embedded throughout this story is amazing.  I have little knowledge of  York vs Lancaster history, so at times, I found myself a bit confused in trying to keep track of the political players. I was intrigued though, and fortunately there were a few handy guides in form of family tree, glossary, map, and a who is who listing called Dramatis Personae. I heavily utilized the family tree.  By end of the book, the noble lineage did seem to become a bit more clear, and second nature to my mind.

While I was engaged with the Cecily’s story, I found that I connected far better with Cecily during her younger years than I was during her married life. The beginning of the story brought me into Cecily’s world; she was likable and very intriguing as a child through her teenage years. Once motherhood came upon Cecily, I started to loose a connection. At this time of the story, I felt like the characters of Cecily and Richard started to fall a bit flat for me as the focus of the story shifted from their relationship to politics of the time. Their focus seemed to go from relationship building/bonding to planning for their next tryst; they desired each other, that is for sure. I do enjoy a good tryst here and there, but the meat of a relationship is what happens in between those lovemaking sessions, and that was lacking.  While I was greatly interested with the historical events within in these pages, I do wish the focus did not shift as it did. Even so, I did continue to be intrigued with the times and with Cecily and Richard.  I did come away with the distinct impression that Cecily and Richard truly loved one another. I did  come away with more knowledge of the political unrest, and power struggle between the Yorks and Lancasters.  Queen By Right definitely left me with the thought: “Ah...now I get it. Now I am seeing what this whole War of the Roses is about; how it began.”

Bottom Line: Anne Easter Smith did a wonderful  job  weaving historical events within Cecily Neville’s story. A good read that left me enlightened.

Recommendation: Historical fiction readers with an interest in the beginnings of the War of Roses; especially for those like me who know little of this history.

You Should Know: As I eluded to, but should say straight out, there is sex, much; tastefully written.

Book Cover: I admired the cover throughout the time I read the story. I still do enjoy feasting my eyes upon the cover.  I think it shows Cecily’s strong-minded, free-spirited, independent bent towards life.  The colors used also greatly appeal.

Side Notes:  Once I am done reading a historical fiction, I love reading the author notes.  I truly geek out on stuff like this, and never fail to read them.  Queen by Right is no exception. I inhaled the author’s notes, and loved learning the explanations of the fiction within the story.  The group guide is rather interesting too, and lends beautifully for a book club discussion.

GIVEAWAY: I am giving away a copy of Queen By Right, thanks to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tour.  To enter, please see this post.

For more information on this book’s tour, and other reviews of Queen By Right, please visit Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tour.