Review: H.M.S. Surprise

H.M.S. Surprise by Patrick O'Brian
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

So far, this is my least favorite offering. The first two have me invested enough to continue, but this just seemed to plod. A bit heavy on Stephen's journal entries and ruminations. Yes, there are some interesting moments, but for a book with such a good beginning simply faded for me and the middle had me almost putting the book down for good and actually skipping on to book 4 in hopes that it is better. Let's hope that it is.

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Review: Les Liaisons Dangereuses

Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Before the daily soaps, there were stories like this.It is incredible how much culture has changed over the centuries. One instance in particular that is related in this "letter" format tale would be considered rape and child molestation by today's standards. No, there is nothing graphic, it is just an observation of the arc of the stories taking place in this classic. Overall, a fun diversion for a rainy afternoon.

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Review: The Chimes

The Chimes by Charles Dickens
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I understand that Dickens is considered a literary genius. I get that he is almost hallowed ground for some. I just do not fall into that group. This story is fine. Read it around the holidays to get into the mood, but overall, I found this to be just okay. It is overdone in places and while it is a period piece, I simply cannot put it on the same shelf as "Christmas Carol."

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