Journey to Territory U, L.J. Epps

Its like a soft 3 stars...

I really want to like Book 3 of The Extinction of All Children series, and it does wrap up many of the questions readers have about what is happening. The pace and dialogue strays, but the basic story line is okay. I just couldn't get as into it but I wanted to know what on Earth was going on. Many of the questions about Emma and Esther come to a head in this book but the reveal falls flat. Emma made some smart decisions and some dumb ones but she is young...it's expected. I thought overall, she was a character I could rally behind.

Some of the twists were expected or so dragged out that when they finally do come out its not shocking. Emma continues to be challenged again and again. Will she be able to unite the territories? Read book three to find out.

I received a free copy in exchange for a fair review.

Journey to Territory M (Extinction of All Children #2) by L.J. Epps

Its more like 3.5 stars but I still enjoyed it enough to push to 4. The story is still following Emma and her rag tag group trying to force equality throughout the territories. This installment was more real. Emma is still infuriatingly stubborn but she seems to be starting to think about things before acting. 

There is more mystery, more death, more action in this book. If you liked book one you will like book two plus some. It's entertaining, it's exciting, it makes you want to keep reading. The relationships between the characters are developing well. I still don't like the "love triangle" LJ is implying but I get it. It creates drama and jealousy. 

I liked it enough to keep trucking on to book three. I need to know what is going on. Why is craigluy separated from the rest of the nation? Why is it three territories? What happened??? Why is the president such a jerk?!?! Who thinks "yes lets kill babies"?!?!

Thats my take. I think if you've made it this far you HAVE to read book three. Plus it is entertaining. 

I got this book for free from Netgalley to read and give my honest review.

Extinction of All Children - L.J. Epps

I'm undecided how much I like this book but it did catch my attention.  It is very reminiscent of another book with fight to the death game with kids, except that isn't the concept here.  Here it is another tyrannical leader making decisions for the populous that aren't very fair.  Our lead, Emma, is the last child of her territory who just turned 18, there are 3 territories and she lives in the poorest.  Don't worry, I'm not spoiling anything.  She is a strong willed, take nothing from anyone type of chick.  She knows inherently that the situation in her territory is wrong even though they try to brainwash them into thinking its for the best.

Its a quick read and it is interesting.  We follow Emma and her fight against the President.  She meets some new people along the way, many of whom seem to immediately fall for her.  Its the beginnings of teen love triangles, a rebellion, and bringing a family back together.  I think if I was a teen or early 20's I may have been more into it.  I liked it but Emma is so bull headed and young, its frustrating.  She is learning though so I do want to continue the series.  Its 3.5 stars form me but only because I am still deciding if I like Emma enough to deal with her immaturity and the boys just falling at her feet.  It's not really believable for me...yet. 

I will move on to book two because I kind of want to see where the story goes.

I got this book for free from Net Galley to read and give my honest review. (spoiler in the jump)

**SPOILERS**

The Invited by Jennifer McMahon

This is an entertaining story about a couple who gives up their "boring City life" to build a home in a small town.  Except things aren't all what they seem.  They are a normal loving married couple.  Its relatable but sometimes a little much.  I've not built a house from scratch but I've gutted and rebuilt from that.  And while we did it, it was hard!  I cannot imagine two DIYers building a house from bottom up.  No matter how much the wifey knows from her dad. 

Moving on, it was an interesting story.  You have this cute couple, a rogue high schooler, small town gossip, a mystery, oh and a ghost.  I'm not spoiling anything don't worry.  The dynamic between all of the characters was built upon as the story went on.  I like that.  It's not thrown in your face from the start.  You grow and learn with them.  While it was slow at times, and annoying others the story was good.  It got really good as all the pieces started to fit together.  I'm glad I read it and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a good mystery with some history, and  a touch of supernatural.

I got this book for free from Net Galley to read and give my honest review. 

The Devil Aspect - Craig Russell

I can't begin to explain how disturbing this story is.  Its fascinating but really delves into the dark recesses of the mind.  We are following Victor Kosarek a Doctor of Psychology in Czechoslovakia before WWII.  He is a brilliant psychologist who is in search of the "Devil Aspect" in his patients.  He had some trying times that led him to yearn to discover what causes such horrible Psychosis. 

He is new at an asylum where the Devil's Six are being held.  They are the worst of the worst.  They have done unspeakable things and cannot be put with common criminals or be released back into society.  Victor is there to pull prove his theory with these exceptionally mad persons. 

It's a story of mystery, murder, supernatural, and a splash of love. It keeps you guessing for the most part but I saw some of it coming from a mile away.  It flips between the asylum and Prague where a detective is trying to find the "Leather Apron".  A mad man who is carrying out horrible crimes against women.  It really was an interesting book but there was a point...a point where we meet Mr. Hobbs where I thought, I am so not sleeping tonight.  It's disturbing but keeps you wanting more. 

I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good mystery suspense all the while hinting at a supernatural element.  Check it out, but I don't recommend reading before bed. 

I got this book for free from NetGalley to read and give my honest review.

SPOILERS

A Hideous Beauty: Kingdom Wars I - Jack Cavanaugh

I give it three stars but only because its ending was redeeming.

I have mixed feelings on this one.  On the one hand I like the premise.  Its Supernatural meets West Wing.  Actually there was literally an entire season of Supernatural dealing with a not so good President and meddling angels but I digress.

We are following the mishaps of Grant Austin.  Pulitzer Prize winning author for his book on the President currently in office.  What he doesn't know is he is just a pawn.  Forces are in control and he played right into their hands.  He apparently is an attractive man with a weird sense of humor.  He sounds like someone I would like but he is written in a way that I almost couldn't stand him.  Women weren't represented well at first either.  I mean the first thing I do when I meet a new female friend is not have a girl power pow wow about our mutual ex and talk about clothes but whatever.  Nor do I fly off the handle easily, actually I don't know many women that actually do.  But maybe me and my friends are different and other females would get unexplainably jealous and irrational because of a complete misunderstanding.

Moving on, once we know Grant's purpose in this wondrous world it got better.  Too bad that was 3/4 of the way into the book.  But once we see the whole crazy situation laid out it got way more interesting.  I really don't like how Grant handles everything but I was rooting for him in the end.  I felt for him.  How could someone as insignificant as him be so important in the grande scheme of things.  How can a normal guy be so important to the war between good an evil.  How can one man change the world?  Grant is going to find out.

I liked the book eventually but getting to the better side of Grant took forever.  I know he is written to be a sarcastic butt but its a bit much.  I will probably read book two because of the ending.  So if you like a twisty Good vs Evil book, give it a try.  Just be forewarned the main character can be a beating at times.

I got this book for free from Netgalley to read and give my honest review.  

**SPOILERS**

Beyond Meridian - CC Bridges

More like 3.5 stars, not quite 4 because its too short.  I don't even know where to start.  I know I read the description before downloading it but I somehow missed that is was a "romance" M/M.  No issues just caught me off guard at first.  So we are following Raine and Karl.  Raine is a Spacer...he moves cargo.  And Karl needs help getting into "enemy" territory. 

Its Firefly with a two man crew and a really fancy ship.  Its a quick read but its honestly really good.   You want to hate Raine, he's a bastard but he isn't, he has a heart so to say.  Karl seems green but there is something lurking beneath the surface.  He is on a mission to save his friend and needs Raine.  The problem is Raine is a man ho (at least it seems) and Karl is "innocent". 

Together with the amazing ship they are going to save the galaxy, and each other. 

It's written to move quickly but its captivating.  It really does grab your interest.  My only issue is it moves so fast.  I like to see more development in characters and in story.  I like to see the build in the relationship.  But even with that lacking I like Raine and Karl.  It's good.  They are good.  It's...just read it.  Like I said Firefly...plus.

I got this book for free from Netgalley to read and give my honest review.  

SPOILERS

Relic - Alan Dean Foster

This is a beautifully written story about the end of our species.  We have wiped ourselves out.  The great human race reduced to one lonely survivor.  In our rush to inhabit the stars we somehow destroyed it all.  Everything we have worked on for millennia gone in the blink of an eye.  For all of our genius our future selves create a virus that literally cleanses the universe of our presence. 

Don't worry I didn't spoil anything and I won't until you get to the jump.  Throughout this book we follow the musing of Ruslan, the last surviving human.  He was rescued by an alien race from one of our colonies among the stars.  He's become something of a celebrity being the only living specimen of a once great species.  He's fairly old and a bit lonely even among his rescuers.  He yearns to hear another human but the virus made sure that never happens again.  This story hit on every emotion.  Its happy, sad, exciting, scary, you name it I felt it.  But the best part.  The absolute most amazing thing about this story is it gives you hope.  Hope that we learn from our mistakes...and don't kill ourselves off.  I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a new unique story about our future among the stars. 

I received this book for free from NetGalley to read and give my honest review.

Lifel1k3 - Jay Kristoff

Wow.  This is a fascinating coming of age story.  I mean who doesn't want to read about a rebellious teen in a future where we almost destroyed all of life on earth.  That isn't sarcasm, I'm serious.  We are following the life of Eve.  She lives what used to be California but it broke off and is an island now.  She poor and scrappy. She has a cybernetic eye and a memory chip in her head.  She has her gramps, BFF named Lemon, robot sidekick named Cricket , and a robo dog with a real dog brain.  

Its not all what you think.  There are non humans out there.  They look like us but they aren't human.  They are called Lifelikes and they rebelled against their maker.  Don't worry, I didn't spoil anything you don't read in the first few pages.  Imagine that!  You get this much insanity and its only the beginning.  This story is full of adventure, heartbreak, friendship, and betrayal; all with a sci-fi base.  Its a captivating read that has more surprises than I thought possible.  The author did a wonderful job of creating characters you love.  Even with their flaws you love them.  That is why all the twists and turns are such punches in the gut  You are learning along with Eve which makes this story even more intriguing.  All leading up to the final showdown that completely blew my mind, and its only book one.  I would definitely recommend it.

SPOILERS in the  jump

Obscura - Joe Hart

This is a wonderfully written yet disturbing story. In the not so distant future we have reached a tipping point. Our beautiful blue marble is dying. Humanity has no choice but to look for a new home. In addition to this we are plagued by a new disease. It targets young and old, related and unrelated. There is no cure...there is no predicting it but once you have it you are done. Its a slow, tortuous death. Not just for you but for your loved ones who have to watch you slowly forget them...yourself...everything. 

We are following Gillian a Doctor, mother, and now Astronaut who is on the verge of curing this awful disease. She has her own issues and reasons for wanting a cure but when NASA calls upon her she goes...a tad unwillingly but she goes. This book is a total mystery. From the opening pages to the last line. Its a roller coaster of emotion and distrust. There is the dying Earth, the incurable disease, a new technology that could change the future of humanity, and death...lots of death. Its a whodunit wrapped up in a what would you do. And it has space travel so win win win, right?! 

I absolutely loved this book. I was confused, concerned, disturbed, terrified, and happy. The whole gambit of emotions. Just when I thought I knew what to expect something else slapped me in the face. I didn't know who to trust. Half the time I didn't even trust Gillian and it was from her POV. I wanted to love so many of the characters but I just didn't know. The only one I fully trusted was Birk, he was an open book. In a heartbeat I would recommend this book. Anyone who loves a good murder mystery and/or sci-fi should read it. It is by far one of the better near future space travel books I've read, and I've read quite a few. Check it out, you wont be sorry.

SPOILERS in the jump

The Good Samaritan by John Marrs

I'm not sure what I just read. I am so disturbed by this book. Let me start by saying I got this for free somehow. With that said I had no idea the can of worms I was opening myself up to.

It's a story about a Suicide hotline operator who "helps" people kill themselves. That in and of itself is disturbing. But as we delve deeper into the psyche of said operator a horrible truth is revealed. This person is psychotic. They should be diagnosed with numerous mental illnesses. As the story unfolds we see the insanity that is brewing just below the surface. To everyone looking in they are the perfect spouse, parent, person but to those who know them its all a ruse. Its to the point where even the reader isn't sure what is real and what is a story made up by them to fit their needs. This book hooked me. At the beginning it was okay but as Steven came into the picture it became hard to put down. I wanted to know who would "win" and I hoped beyond hope it wouldn't be the operator. If you love a good suspense/thriller pick this up but be warned it highlights the depths of insanity that lurk in the human psyche. To say I'm disturbed by this story is an understatement but I would recommend it because it is quite intriguing.

Spoilers after the jump....

Nyxia - Scott Reintgen

What an intriguing story!  In the semi-distant future we have expanded into the cosmos.  We have found an amazing new natural resource on an alien planet that will change everything, the problem is the locals don't much like adult humans but they love and respect children.  Solution, send a bunch of poor "kids" into space to harvest this stuff for them.  The catch...oh the catch is they are taking a bunch of you into space but only a few actually get to go down to the planet.  Those that go will have their families taken care of generously, the rest get a consolation prize.

So begins a story of deception, friendship, love, and betrayal.  Emmett, the main character and story teller is a hardened poor kid who makes the list.  The big corp (Babel) is in complete control.  You will fight, ruthlessly, to earn your way to the surface.  People are hurt, people die, enemies are made, and friendships are formed.  The emotions Emmett must endure are a roller-coaster.   Who can he trust?  What is Babel hiding?  Will he ever make it home again to see that moms and pops are actually being taken care of?  The entire story is high energy and stressful.  You want to hate some and love others but who is being real?  You are just are distrustful as Emmett.  This might be a story about a bunch of teens but its relatable to any age.  Its a great read that captures you from the beginning and doesn't let go.  Just when you think you know what Babel is up to something else insane happens.  You experience the lies and deceit with Emmett and the hope as well.  I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes sci-fi/space travel. 

SPOILERS 







He was supposed to be with Kaya!  They freaking killed Kaya!  I did not see that coming.  Maybe she's alive and Babel is hiding her...wishful thinking.  I mean I like Morning and while I didn't trust her at first, I think she is genuinely interested in Emmett and a good person.  I'm glad the "love" scene wasn't done in more detail.  It always makes me a little uncomfortable when authors go into detail about 1st times or anything sexual between minors.  Yes, we all know it happens but that is not necessary so kudos to this author for glazing over that piece. 

I did not see that ending coming.  I knew Babel had one more thing up their sleeve but to pit two kids against each other TO THE DEATH is insane!  Roathy probably deserved to die but I am so proud of Emmett for taking the high road. For not killing him and actually trying to save him.  It showed immense character development. 

I adored Bilal.  He always sees the best in everyone and everything, even when the world turns against him.  He is a true friend and derserves better than what happened to him.  I hope he comes back somehow or is in one of the pods headed to the surface.

Vademeer is an enigma.  I thought he was a Babel bad guy at first but he is a mentor.  He genuinely cares about Emmett & Kaya when she was alive.  Sure he gets more money if his kids win but he actually cares.  He wasn't just in it for the money.  He mourned Kaya.  He was worried about Emmett and genuinely proud when he made the adult decision, i.e. not killing someone as revenge...even it it was warranted. 

Defoe...I want to think he's bad.  But I just don't think he is.  Something about him says he is different.   Yes he has done, is doing horrible things for Babel, but we get these glimpses of him that make me think he has some good hidden in there.  That he is not just a pawn for this huge corporation.  I could be totally wrong but I swear he cares, slightly, for Emmett and the other kids (well his, not the other team). 

I still do not trust Isadora.  She is crazy.  She is vengeful.  She should NOT be going to Eden.  But she was grandfathered in.  Babel and their games.  Will they ever end?  Can't wait for the rest of this story!

I got this book for free from Blogging for Books to give my honest review.  

Paradox Bound - Peter Clines

Where to begin.  I am always up for a time travel story...excuse HISTORY travel story.  And this one did disappoint.  We are following the life & adventures of Eli Teague.   As a child he sees a mysterious young woman who ran out of fuel on the side of the rode.  She was driving an old Model T, I think.  She was chased off by a man in a mask driving a sports car.  He meets her two more times at different points in his life but she doesn't look to have aged a day.  Being from a small town, this started an interest in who she was and what she was doing.  After his 3rd meeting his life is turned upside down.  It is the beginning of a wild adventure through History. 

This book brings you through various points in American History.  It has these crazy explanations about the American Dream and how we perceive things.  It was hard to put down at times.  I wasn't a huge fan of the final chapters BUT it was still a phenomenal story with amazing characters.  You really do fall in love with Eli and Harry.  They are just so real, so easy to like.  So easy to root for.  It was very creative and well written.  I would highly recommend it to anyone who likes History with a twist. 

SPOILERS


While I don't need a love story, I cannot believe that it ended with them just walking off into the sunset.  At least give me a little peck.  They clearly cared for each other more than just partners.  Especially Eli towards Harry.  The whole book is building up their relationship.  Yes, it could just be friendly but it didn't seem that way to me.  I loved the story but was annoyed with the ending...it fell flat.  Still a great book.

I do kind of hope the story continues.  I don't think it will but I would love to read more about the adventure of Eli and Harry as they skid into various points of history, trying not to muck it up along the way.

I did enjoy how historical figures, real historical figures made appearances.  As soon as James was introduced, I knew who he was.  The description and the explanation that he was a race car driver turned actor...hello JAMES DEAN!  John driving a train was creative.  All of it was creative. 

The faceless men were terrifying.  They are soulless creatures created from what once was man.  The stuff of nightmares.  I also like that the American dream is a tangible thing.  Something that can be stolen.  Something that is alive and evolves with whomever has possession of it.  The idea that our country was formed and successful because of a deal made with an Egyptian God was so cool. 

So many times I wanted to scream at Eli and Harry but they always, always protected each other.  When Eli went to Harry's wedding.  I just sat there smiling the entire time.  It was so cute and heartbreaking. Then when Eli was kidnapped by his former boss, I knew Harry would save him.  Well mostly, he did almost die.  Harry gets shot by a faceless man, nooooo but Eli protected her.  I did want to scream when they let Eli leave and kept Harry.  I know they said with certainty they would meet again but I just was upset.  They are partners, this can't be happening!!!  Eli became his own man, he became rich by getting fired (I loved that part) then he went looking for her.  He went back to hourglass and he found her.  It wasn't the reunion I wanted but it was still awesome! 

If you can't tell I really did like this book!


RAMDOM RAMBLINGS:

September 27, 2017 – Started Reading

September 27, 2017 – 

 5.0% "Best line so far "They weren't as big as some he'd seen in pictures and on film, but those were definitely boobs.""

September 28, 2017 – 

 27.0% "American History, history, history...time travel, time travel, time travel..."They summoned Ptah, the Egyptian god of Creation." wait what?!?!?"

October 2, 2017 – 

 34.0% "So "The Dream" being MIA is the reason our country is going to shit...good to know."

October 5, 2017 – 

 40.0% "She is clearly flirting but made sure to tell him "its Mrs. not Miss" soooooo they are married...right...but in the future...or past...right>?!"

October 25, 2017 – 

 78.0% "I need more of these two...."

November 2, 2017 – 

 81.0% "Ahhhhhhh its little Eli!!!!!!"

November 2, 2017 – 

 85.0% "Was that a Doctor Who reference?!?!"

November 2, 2017 – 

 89.0% "They're the ones that stole it in the first place!!! This is the paradox...right?!?! Eli & Harry are the beginning and the end...right?!?!"

November 3, 2017 – 

 94.0% "OMG that was a Supernatural Reference!!!!"

November 3, 2017 – Finished Reading

The Travelers by: Chris Parvone

At least a 4 star book

What can I say but I truly enjoyed this book.  I don't know much about spies or the CIA but I did love the movies True Lies and Mr. & Mrs. Smith so this book was a great fit for me.  We are following the life of a travel writer, Will Rhodes.  Will is a 30 something married writer in the failing printed magazine industry.  He is bored with his life...his wife and makes some very stupid decisions.  I won't spoil it much but because of his wandering, um eye, he gets himself and those he cares about into a messed up situation.  He unknowingly becomes the center point of a massive espionage plot and doesn't know who he can trust.

This book was quite the adventure.  Who can we trust?  Who is the good/bad guy?  Why is this even happening?!?  Its spy thriller on a roller coaster that tries to keep you guessing.  if you read my ramblings I thought I figured it out way early, and I kind of did.  But I think you are supposed to because so much is thrown at you, you start to second guess your guessing just like Will.  We don't know who we can trust but we do know that Will is a genuinely good guy who got caught up in a bad situation.  But if you want to find out more, you are going to have to read the book.  I thought it was a decently written espionage novel.  It had enough action to keep you interested and enough questions to keep you wanting to read more.  I say give it a go. 

SPOILERS



This will be short and sweet.  Oh my God Will keep it in your pants you adulterous bastard!  You are literally sleeping with the enemy.  Your wee wee got you mixed up in some crazy international James Bond stuff.  And what about Chloe?  Yea she has her own secrets but she doesn't deserve this.  She loves you, you idiot! 

I wanted to love and hate Malcolm.  He seems like he wants to be an adulterous bastard but he isn't and his stupid wife goes and sleeps with another enemy.  What is with you people?!!!?  At least both Will and Allison realize their mistakes but still.  Malcolm is actually a pretty good guy.  He is the head of the super secret ACTUAL CIA agency and only wants to keep his people safe.  Including Will even though he is working for the enemy thinking its the CIA.  I am just glad the Will is smart enough to realize Elle and her crew of goons are the actual bad guys and goes rogue.  I wish he would have trusted Mal but I get why he wasn't sure.  I am glad he kind of told Chloe even if she didn't believe him at first. 

I will say I am assuming the guy Will finds in Iceland is the missing ex head of Travelers, Johnathon.  We never find out for sure really find out for sure but when Mal gets the call that he's been spotted its safe to assume they are one in the same.  He goes dark again but it looks like Chloe and Will will be hot on his trail.  I thought it was a fitting ending.  Looks like Mr. Smith is going to join Mrs. Smith as a super spy duo.  At least I hope so. 

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books to read and give an honest review. 

RAMBLINGS:

March 20, 2017 –

page 16

3.57%"Okay, either Will is crazy and thinks every woman wants to f**k him OR he oozes sexy...."

 

March 21, 2017 –

page 34

7.59%"Will's obsession with perfection is disturbing...."

 

March 21, 2017 –

page 39

8.71% "Ugh! Really...guess he takes that whole "different area code" thing seriously..."

April 5, 2017 –

page 45

10.04%"Good lord man! Keep it in your pants!"

April 5, 2017 –

page 79

17.63%"Will, you ducking idiot!"

April 5, 2017 –

page 80

17.86%"Soooo is "Marina" who I think she is...also HOLY CRAP that list...."

 

April 6, 2017 –

page 113

25.22% "This is all very True Lies with a twist...."

April 27, 2017 –

page 164

36.61% "Hmmm maybe not so much true lies...more like Mr. & Mrs. Smith....maybe....still not sure...."

 

May 3, 2017 –

page 239

53.35% "Tell...her...the...TRUTH! Where is my Genie from Aladdin when I need him!?!?!?"

May 15, 2017 –

page 266

59.38% "i feel like will is being duped. Elle isn't with the CIA...they are the bad guys...and Travelers is cover for the good guys...right?!?!!?!?!"

 

The Fifth Petal (The Lace Reader, #2) - Brunonia Barry

So apparently this is book 2.  I didn't know this was book 2 when I requested it.  Don't worry you don't really need to know much of book 1 to follow and enjoy book 2, plus anything referenced from book 1 is explained enough.  This story follows two times, past and present.  Back in Salem in 1989 decedents of the victims of the Salem witch trials try to bless the ground where the atrocity happened. Something goes horribly wrong.   Three women die, one goes insane, and a child is scared for life. 

Flash forward to the present.  The "crazy lady" whom everyone thinks killed her friends back in the day is a suspect in another death.  The child, now an adult, comes home to Salem to help her.  And the Chief of Police tries his hardest to bring the murderer(s) to justice. 

I love the intertwining of the fictional world of "witchcraft" and mystical creatures with the real Salem witch trials.  It is a gripping story that keeps you guessing until the end.  Who did it?!?  Is there really a Banshee?  Is witchcraft real?  Why can't Cassie just have a happy life?  Is Rose really crazy?  Is Rafferty biased?  What's up with Towner?  I don't trust Emily, Anne, or Marta...Paul is sketchy too!  I mean seriously the who done it is strong with this one.

I love the retelling of the 1989 case through memories surfacing in Cassie.  It is an interesting way to see such a horrible day...through the eyes of a child who witnessed it, among other things.  We also see things from other people's POV including the police chief.  It makes you question reality.  Who is capable of murder?  Do things we consider myths have some base in reality?   How else do you explain the mysterious cerebral hemorrhage?  Honestly its a bit of a mind _ _ _ _ but in a good way.

If you are a fan a mysteries with a hint of supernatural and a dash of romance check this one out.   Seriously, give it a look see I really enjoyed it.  

 

I got this book for free from Blogging for Books to read and give my honest review.

Dear Mr. M - Herman Koch

What the hell did I just read?!?!  Okay sorry in a more elegant tone "my word, this telling tale has successfully frizzled my cerebellum". 

What an interesting story.  I was frustrated for a bit but only because I couldn't figure out why I needed to have so many points of view.  We originally hear from the "weird" upstairs neighbor, then Mr. M the writer, then his wife, then young Herman, then young Laura....then the freaking history teacher.  So much going on but how does it all fit.   Logically it fits because Mr. M writes a book based on an actual occurrence.  Forty years ago a teacher (Landzaat)  has an affair with a student (Laura), can't handle when she breaks up with him and then he goes missing.  Of course the student and her new boyfriend (Herman) are prime suspects.  So we learn early on (this isn't a spoiler) that weird guy is the boyfriend.  So all narrators, except M's wife, are parts of this original story and M is the writer.  I guess you could call it a different way to do character development. 

So we know how the book M writes ends and the narration from the past is what actually happened.  Its all jumbled together though.  We go from present day 70+ year old M, his wife, and his stalkery neighbor...back 40 years to Herman, Laura, their friends, and the elicit affair. It sounds like it should be confusing but it isn't.  M is written to be a jerk.  You don't want to like him.  He is a pompous has been writer who still thinks he is relevant.  His wife (much younger) and daughter are there for show.  He probably cares but they are more of a security blanket for an aging man.  Weird guy/Herman is disturbing.  You keep waiting for him to do something really crazy.  Clearly someone who could kill his old teacher, lie about it, and get away with it wouldn't blink at harming the writer who retold the story.  Laura is a young girl.  She is gorgeous.  She can have any boy she wants.  She is a good person who made some bad decisions. 

All in all it was a great story.  Towards the end it is hard to put down (read my random ramblings).  You start trying to piece it together.  You think you know and then BAM you were totally wrong.  I can honestly say I did not see that coming.  I thought I had it figured out.  Nope, not even close.  The mystery stays a mystery until the very end.  Not your typical who done it.  Give it a try, I don't think you will be disappointed.

SPOILERS

I really honestly thought Herman killed Landzaat. The whole book builds him up to be some loner only child who gets his kicks by being a jerk.  He is detached from reality.  Every time older Herman was narrating I thought for sure M's wife, child, or M himself was going to be harmed in some way.  He is not made to be likeable.  Clearly he manipulated Laura into loving him and made sure the competition was removed.  I mean what normal kid films a teacher laying dead on the floor.  He is grilling M about the details in his book.  Why he said this, why he left out a particular person, why didn't he want to interview Laura and Herman.  He is unstable.  He is detached.  He is dangerous.  And he is pushing himself into M's life. 

Laura liked Herman right off the bat.  Something about him but she didn't want to admit it.  So she lost him to her friend while on a group vacation.  The group stays friends and she in a fit of rebellion seduced her history teacher.  Him being of unsound mind falls for it and they begin their affair.  She is his side piece...he is married with two kids.  She doesn't want to be his side piece so she does something stupid.  She leaves an earring at his place for his wife to find...then she breaks up with him to date Herman. 

Landzaat had an affair with a student.  He is not a good person.  The problem isn't just the affair.  Its the aftermath of the break up.  He can't handle the fact that she left him, a man, for some gangly boy her own age.  A boy who isn't a jock, who isn't overly attractive, who isn't him.  He becomes obsessed.  He stalks her.  He shows up when she is on Christmas break with Herman.  He plans it all out.  He will show up there and win her back.  Then it changes, he will show up there and fake a car issue causing them to leave in the snow storm to find help.  He will kill himself making it look like the kids did it so he can ruin their lives.  What is wrong with him!?!?! 

Mr. M was also not likeable but not in the "he's a murderer" type of way.  More like he is just an jerk.  He is an old man who no longer holds his tongue.  He says things that are awful.  It is implied that he is racist...I think.  He gets into a fight with another writer and gets his butt kicked.  His life is falling apart.  He figures out in his concussed state that weird guy is Herman but before the big reveal from Herman, M slips away into a vegetative state.  Oh no we will never know and Herman just watches as the wife tries to help.

Landzaat is back, wait what?  He changed his mind he didn't want to die.  He  faked it all.  He decided to run off just as Herman said.  He faked amnesia and will show up again in a few months.  He finds out about the book and contacts M.  He thinks the writer should know the real story.  But M already has his story, the kids killed the teacher.  He doesn't want to change it.  In a fit of career preservation M kills the teacher. What?!?!  The end. 

I got this book for free from Blogging for Books to read and give my honest review.  

01/03

	page 94		23.0%	"Can I just say...the men in this book are awful! Mr M and the neighbor need a swift kick in the groin...."
01/25	page 325		81.0%	"I thought this book was about revenge but I'm really not sure. Its all over the place...different points of view. The stories interconnect but I am still not sure what the point is. Its interesting but very odd."
01/25	page 334		83.0%	"Good lord man she is 16...pull yourself together...she can't be that great in bed....talk about voodoo punani."
01/25	page 342		85.0%	"So is this like a repeat thing. He stole the younger girl from the older man in HS and will now steal the younger wife from the old dude as an adult....seriously...what is the point of this book....."
01/25	page 347		86.0%	"So now M knows who he is.........?"
01/25	page 362		90.0%	"If it turns out the M has been love sick dude this whole time I will throw the book and my coworkers will think I am insane."
01/25	page 363		90.0%	"What the e actual...this book is so weird!!!!!"
01/26	page 396		99.0%	"This book is messing with my brain!!!!!"

Ghosts from Our Past: Both Literally and Figuratively: The Study of the Paranormal - Erin Gilbert, Abby L. Yates, Andrew Shaffer

THREE STARS 
 
I don't know.  It was interesting enough but wasn't as "funny" as everyone keeps saying.  I'm a Ghostbusters Geek.  I've seen the originals countless times, I watched the Cartoon back in the day, and I've seen and enjoyed the reboot.  Look, I like awkward humor but most of the "funny" stuff fell flat.  At least to me.  With that said it was interesting enough.  I did enjoy the Ghost Stories, the how tos, and how to nots.  I did enjoy some of the silliness but it wasn't laugh out loud funny.  It was just meh.  Maybe my expectations were just too high.

Erin and Abby are social outcasts who befriend each other because of their mutual fascination with the paranormal.  Its not just about the ghost hunting though, its about the science.  Its about trying to prove the existence of another realm where the dearly departed and some other "creatures" reside.  In their spare time in college they wrote this book about the paranormal.  Since their success (what we see in the movie) they have added and edited their old book.  They tell us how they started, the history of ghost hunting, and how to be a ghost hunter/paranormal investigator. 

Like I said it wasn't an awful book but I was expecting more LOLs.  I am a history nut so I did appreciate the information about paranormal investigators of the past.  It did have its moments of fun but I wasn't cracking up, more like forcefully blowing air out of my nose while smiling. 

If you liked the movie give it a go.  It isn't boring by any means. 
 

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books to read and give my honest review. 

Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

I think my brain just 'sploded.  This book was phenomenal.  My only complaint is the version I had seemed to be riddled with typos, like it was unedited.  But regardless it was amazing so I am not reducing the stars just for that.  Its sci-fi with a really good message.  I only picked it up because of the title and I love the TV show of the same name.  I am so glad I did!  It kept me guessing until the very end.  I thought I had it figured out but I so did not. 

We are following the life of Jason Dessen.  Nothing special normal family man who teaches physics at a university.   He's married to Daniella, has a son named Charlie, and has regrets...who doesn't.  But regardless he loves his family even if he takes them for granted.  It all comes crashing down one evening when he leaves to celebrate an achievement for an old school mate.  When he left little did he know how long it would take him to make it back home to his mundane life and what obstacles he would have to endure to get there. 

This story was captivating.  You can't help but love Jason through all of his good and bad decisions.  He is us, we are him.  I mean I am not an insanely intelligent physicist who regrets not doing more in his field. What I mean is he has a wonderful life but always wonders what if.  What if I turned left instead of right.  What if I didn't go to that party.  What if I made a different choice.  Where would my life have gone?  Where would I be?  You can't tell me you never had those thoughts, you are human we all have them.  The problem is IF we didn't make those choices we wouldn't have what we have.  Would it be worth it?  Could you give up your family for success?  You may say yes now but what IF it really happened.




SPOILERS



This book BROKE MY BRAIN.  I thought I had it figured out and then *wam* another twist.  I loved it!  Jason is amazingly flawed.  He has a wonderful, normal life but always thinks about what if he didn't have a baby with Dani.  He gets his wish.  He is kidnapped and thrown into a parallel world.  A world where he didn't marry Dani, didn't have Charlie, where he didn't stop his research.  A world where he is a recognized physicist but he is all alone.  It takes him a while to figure out his kidnapper was him (what?!?!).  The him from this world stole his life...very Fringe like.  The parallel him created a box that can cross the plain between parallel universes.  He can visit his "what ifs" and see how things would be different.  All he wants though is to go back home.  To go be with his wife and son...the ones he took for granted. 

He makes friends and enemies along the way...more enemies than friends.  He can't figure out how to get back to HIS world.  He sees horrors along the way.  Worlds ravaged by illness or natural disasters.  Worlds where Dani dies, where Charlie dies, where he dies, where they didn't marry, where they never met.  So many worlds.  How can he possibly find his in an infinite number of realities.  Meanwhile Jason2 is playing house with his family.  I know its "him" but it isn't him and it really CREEPS ME OUT! 

When he finally made it home I was so happy and scared.  How was he going to fix this?  Can he really kill a version of him and re-replace him?  I kept thinking it was going to be like bizzaro land.  Where Dani comes home to both Jasons and has to figure out which one is her husband.  But they kill the wrong one.  That is where my brain went.  I was NOT expecting hundreds of versions of Jason showing up.  How the...I understand some theoretical physics...like the very basics of the multiverse stuff but this blew my mind.  Basically once he entered the box INFINITE versions of him were created.  Each reality he stepped into or didn't step into created ANOTHER Jason that just wanted to get home to Dani and Charlie.  

Taking care of ONE version of himself was enough but hundreds, how does one even begin to solve that.  I am so glad Dani and Charlie realized the correct version but how do they stop the others.  I was on the edge of my seat.  He can't kill them all.  They can't just keep running.  They are all basically him, they think like him, they will find them.   So imagine my surprise when Jason2 is dying and gives them the gift of the ampules.  That option never occurred to me.  The option for them to escape, together, to another universe.  But how do they stop the gazillion versions of him from following.  They stop it by HIM not making the choice.  By giving the choice to the one variable that could end the insanity.  Let Charlie choose.  They walked out into a strange new world.  One with hope and hopefully happiness because they are together and that is all that matters.  I LOVED it!  

SIDE NOTE - Please make this into a movie or at the very least a TV Show...and cast David Tennant as Jason.  I don't know why but he feels like a good fit for the character.....

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books to read and give my honest review.  

These are my daily musings.....

THe Never-Open Desert Diner - James Anderson

This is a very odd story.  Not because it is supernatural or anything...just odd.  So we are following with the mundane life of Ben.  A truck driver in nowhere USA, along route 117. Somewhere that is no where to most but home to a few stragglers that managed to find their way there.  A place where keeping yours and others secrets is the only way to truly survive. 

We meet some strange characters along the way.  Ben is a normalish guy.  He is an orphan.  He is a good man who sometimes trusts too much.  Walt is scary.  He is damaged because of the loss of his wife.  He is decent but clearly has anger issues.  THe brothers are weird but seem like okay people.  John, the Preacher, is just that.  He's a man of God, always there to help you through things.  Then there is Claire.  She is running from something.  She has more secrets that all the other characters combined.  She has a temper but she is likeable. 

It was a long story, especially for one that takes place almost entirely in the desert, along some old highway.  But it isn't bad.  The story is interesting enough, it just seemed really drawn out.  But the details we receive are necessary to pull everything together in the end.  I thought I knew what was coming.  I did not.  Its a book I wouldn't read again but I would still say give it a try.  It has some action, some love and a lot of mystery.  You never really know what's going on.  Hell, the story teller (Ben), doesn't seem to know what's going on half the time.  But even with the pain it brings, it is a story that makes you feel good.  Things usually work out.  Maybe not how you pictured but in the end it all works out. 
 
SPOILER
 
Walt is a jerk.  Ben is a sucker.  Claire takes too many chances.  I hate that so many people tried to manipulate Ben.  He is an honest guy, trying to earn an honest living and almost gets blamed for some pretty ridiculous things.  I hate that he almost takes the fall for Claire's actions.  I hate that Walt and him beat the snot out of each other.  I hate that he was used by so many.  I love that despite all this he saved Josh.  I love that he managed to fall in love with Claire despite the circumstances.  I love that he cared enough to take Ginny in even though she is the daughter of an ex. 

I will say while I hoped for a happy ending, I wasn't expecting one.  Granted the happy ending we get isn't the one I wanted.  I hoped Ben and Claire would either sell the Cello and make some dough or just live happy in Dessert Home.  I thought for SURE Walt was going to die.  Instead Claire dies, basically in Ben's arms and Walt lives.  Why?!?!?  But Ben ends up coming into money thanks to the blanket his birth mom left him wrapped in.  So he manages a semi happy ending but without his love. 

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books to read and give my honest review.

All These Perfect Strangers - Aoife Clifford

What did I think...hmmmm.  Well I thought it was a decent book.  I really did.  I even waited 24 hours to write my review to think on it and make sure my thoughts didn't change.  And they didn't.  I still want to throw this book out of a window....or off of a roof...and possibly stab it with a screw driver.  But I won't because its a digital book on my iPad and I like my iPad so no violence to the book. 

With that said this book had its ups and downs.  I love a good mystery but this one almost took it to a frustrating level.  Its a flash back story.  Meaning it starts in a present day type scenario and flashes back to the past.  But the whole book takes place in 1990...flashing back to previous events to move the story forward.  There are a few characters to keep up with but the main focus is Penelope as she is telling the story.  She has been in trouble and got in more trouble and is trying to make her life right. 

I will say it is a relatable story. Not because I got in trouble but because we have all had to make difficult decisions to protect ourselves or fit in.  Pen is troubled, that is evident.  She makes STUPID decisions, that is also evident but you can't help but be understanding.  She is damaged and scared, of course she doesn't always choose the right path but she is a good person...right. 

It was a little twisty...slightly turney and very frustrating.  It does keep you guessing for the most part which is nice.  I did have my suspicions but the author did a decent job of distracting me so that I didn't focus long enough to say "AH HA!".  I couldn't give it more than 3 stars because of a certain reason I can't reveal...SPOILERS.  It was interesting enough but I wouldn't go out of my way to read it. 

SPOILERS

What the hell was that ending?!!?!?  I mean the entire book I wanted to slap Pen and say STOP LYING! Stop being deceitful.  You are getting a fresh start...STOP!  But she always hid things.  She trusted the wrong people.  She hurt people.  I got pissed as a college student but I would NEVER purposefully drug someone.  That is some sociopath level stuff there.  I also wouldn't have trusted Rogan.  He was pretty but something was off from the start.  I just never thought, oh stand up guy.  I also didn't trust Michael...he screamed "I'm going to be a mass murderer one day"...very creepy.  Rachel was conflicted but not all bad.  I really liked Toby, he was a good friend. 

Pen just chose wrong all the time.  I never got why she lied to EVERYONE.  I know her and Tracey did some bad things but I really think Pen was the bad influence. She is a manipulator.  She had some redeeming qualities but she lied SO MUCH.  I mean I get your friend is embarrassed about being almost raped but you tell someone.  You don't save her...then lie about everything and let her take the fall for a death.  You don't see something bad happen and go quiet.  You don't have your SLEEPING PILLS stolen and not report it.  You don't like about how someone died.  Michael was going to kill her...why lie and say he jumped.  Why not say "he was trying to kill me and I pushed him by accident".  Its a much more believable story...more truth.  After all of that I really started to distrust Pen...WHY LIE!?!? 

That is why the ending made me insane.  What the frick happened???  She is in the interrogation room.  They have her diary and...she flashes back...way back to when she first met Tracey.  To the last time she was sort of happy and it ends.  What?!?!  Sooooo its left open to interpretation...I guess.  She was clearly guilty of something.  Maybe she was the murderer all along and she fooled us, the reader.  I don't know and I'll never know because it freaking ended!  So was she really mental?  Tracey is dead and can't help her...plus she LIED.  Rogan wouldn't help her.  Michael 7 Rachel are dead.  Toby is probably traumatized.  I don't know...maybe I'm over thinking it but I really feel like the whole book was a ruse.  A ruse told by Pen.  its her skewed version of reality.  There was way more to it than what we are told...right?!!?


I received this book for free from House Party, Random House, & Net Galley to read and give my honest review.