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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Review: Storm Front

Storm Front by Jim Butcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Semi-gritty, this is a Supernatural tale that kicks off a series. It has some good action and builds a mythology around the main character, Harry Dresden. He is a wizard of sorts and is brought in to help the police solve crimes that may not be "normal". He also has a past that apparently puts him at odds with some sort of wizard council. Overall, the story is okay...good, not great. I will venture forward with at least the next couple as this series was recommended to me by a friend whose judgement I trust.

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Review: Post Captain

Post Captain by Patrick O'Brian
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This entire book is so bleak and you really begin to feel for Capt. Aubrey. His reputation is trashed, he is on the run from the debtor's prison goons, and even his relationship with Stephen takes a bit of a beating. While it is not a "happy turn" it still gives some satisfaction in the end. I think the fact that there is still no magic fix given to our protagonist, the story holds just that extra bit of realism that makes this series so amazing.

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Review: Fight the MonSter: Find a Cure for MS

Fight the MonSter: Find a Cure for MS by Doug Dandridge
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I will skip talking about my own contributions and leave that to other reviewers, but I will say that the other tales in this little tome are VERY worth the time, and not only that, but all proceeds go to an excellent cause. If you are wanting "feel good" horror, skip the introductory tale. That story alone was worth this book and perhaps the most chilling tale I have read.

The audio version is a highlight reel of excellent talent and really displays the amazing narrators that make up the Falcon Sound team.

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Review: Reversion: The Inevitable Horror

Reversion: The Inevitable Horror by J. Thorn
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

This book is a bit cerebral in its approach to horror. It is not full of spine-tingling stuff that has you on the edge of yoru seat, instead, it has a lot to offer the mind as you journey through a very interesting take on "after-life"(?)

I did find myself wanting a bit more action at times, but once I got into the flow, I found this to be a very pleasant read that fit perfect in small doses during my day.

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