Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: 11th Century England, a few years after the Norman Conquest.
First Sentence: It was raining.
This novel is the second in the author's Aelf Fen Norman series which currently runs to seven books.
Mysteries often spring from secrets. Actions often seem mysterious until the secret is revealed.
So it is with our main character, Lessair. She finds characters whose behavior is mysterious. And in the end discovers a hidden secret.
Lessair is an apprentice healer. And she can sense the supernatural.
An urgent request for help. A cousin has injured his foot. But why had Lessair been summoned when the cousin could have asked for help from the nearby Ely Abby?
Soon, Lessair becomes entangled with a family secret involving her friend Sibert and the death of his father.
Then, while investigating this secret, she learns of a deeper and more dangerous secret. This one could bring war and death to the land.
This was an interesting book. The liked the way the author switched back and forth from first person third person points of view.
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
The End of All Things By: John Scalzi
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: In outer space, aboard spaceships and on various planets, in the distant future.
First sentence: So, I'm supposed to tell you how I became a brain in a box.
This book is the sixth in Scalzi's Old Man's War series. This series is unique in that it is a collection of free standing novels and novelettes placed in the Old Man's War universe. We don't follow a main character. But we see the main story arc from different points of view.
This book is a collection of four novelettes. In them we observe the main story from both a human and an alien perspective.
Basically, the plot revolves around the relationship humans have with the hundreds of non-human species in the galaxy. Many of these species have aligned themselves into a governmental entity called the Conclave. Humans are represented by the Colonial Union and its military arm called the CDF (Colonial Defense Forces).
Humans are not very popular in space. They have been fighting the Conclave for years. It turns out that the Conclave is not as evil as the Colonial Union would have humans believe. And the Colonial Union is not very popular on Earth. It turns out that the Colonial Union has been misrepresenting the real political situation in the galaxy.
Now, there is a new political entity called the Equilibrium. The Equilibrium wants to gain political control by destroying both the Conclave and the Earth.
So, the Conclave, the CU and Earth need to find a way to defeat the Equilibrium. Failure would mean the end of all things.
I am a big fan of John Scalzi's novels. I especially like his action sequences. For me, the story slowed down when we had aliens with difficult to remember names discussing political issues.
But, overall, I felt that it was a very enjoyable read.
Setting: In outer space, aboard spaceships and on various planets, in the distant future.
First sentence: So, I'm supposed to tell you how I became a brain in a box.
This book is the sixth in Scalzi's Old Man's War series. This series is unique in that it is a collection of free standing novels and novelettes placed in the Old Man's War universe. We don't follow a main character. But we see the main story arc from different points of view.
This book is a collection of four novelettes. In them we observe the main story from both a human and an alien perspective.
Basically, the plot revolves around the relationship humans have with the hundreds of non-human species in the galaxy. Many of these species have aligned themselves into a governmental entity called the Conclave. Humans are represented by the Colonial Union and its military arm called the CDF (Colonial Defense Forces).
Humans are not very popular in space. They have been fighting the Conclave for years. It turns out that the Conclave is not as evil as the Colonial Union would have humans believe. And the Colonial Union is not very popular on Earth. It turns out that the Colonial Union has been misrepresenting the real political situation in the galaxy.
Now, there is a new political entity called the Equilibrium. The Equilibrium wants to gain political control by destroying both the Conclave and the Earth.
So, the Conclave, the CU and Earth need to find a way to defeat the Equilibrium. Failure would mean the end of all things.
I am a big fan of John Scalzi's novels. I especially like his action sequences. For me, the story slowed down when we had aliens with difficult to remember names discussing political issues.
But, overall, I felt that it was a very enjoyable read.
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Destroyermen: Blood on the Water By Taylor Anderson
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: During the World War II time frame, on a different version of Earth.
Blood on the Water is the eleventh novel in Anderson's Destroyermen series.
In this novel the author picks up the story where he left off in the previous novels. Captain Reddy, his destroyermen, and their allies are spread across the globe. In the East they are battling the minions of the Holy Dominion. In the West, they fight the lizard-like Grik and the insane Japanese leader Kurokawa.
In this episode of the series, we learn more about the other human factions that inhabit this version of Earth. Some are enemies of the Dominion. Some are enemies of the Grik. And some have nefarious objectives which make them the political enemies of all the sides of the war.
Anderson uses a large cast of characters to tell his story. Keeping track of so many characters must be a challenge for the author. To help the reader, Anderson has included a ten page longest of characters. When the author introduces a new character, or reintroduces a character from past novels, he does an adequate job of providing the exposition needed to identify the character. With so many characters, so much exposition could become tedious. But the author deals with the exposition quickly and gets us back to the action.
I have really enjoyed the Destroyermen series. The plot moves along briskly and there is lots of action.
I strongly advise readers to start at the beginning and read the novels in sequence. It looks like it's going to be a long ride.
Setting: During the World War II time frame, on a different version of Earth.
Blood on the Water is the eleventh novel in Anderson's Destroyermen series.
In this novel the author picks up the story where he left off in the previous novels. Captain Reddy, his destroyermen, and their allies are spread across the globe. In the East they are battling the minions of the Holy Dominion. In the West, they fight the lizard-like Grik and the insane Japanese leader Kurokawa.
In this episode of the series, we learn more about the other human factions that inhabit this version of Earth. Some are enemies of the Dominion. Some are enemies of the Grik. And some have nefarious objectives which make them the political enemies of all the sides of the war.
Anderson uses a large cast of characters to tell his story. Keeping track of so many characters must be a challenge for the author. To help the reader, Anderson has included a ten page longest of characters. When the author introduces a new character, or reintroduces a character from past novels, he does an adequate job of providing the exposition needed to identify the character. With so many characters, so much exposition could become tedious. But the author deals with the exposition quickly and gets us back to the action.
I have really enjoyed the Destroyermen series. The plot moves along briskly and there is lots of action.
I strongly advise readers to start at the beginning and read the novels in sequence. It looks like it's going to be a long ride.
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Dark Matter, Book One of the Hadron Series by Stephen Arseneault
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: The eastern U.S. in the near future.
First Sentence: The engines lost thrust as the fuel ran dry.
Dark Matter is the first novel in the author's Hadron series which currently runs to eight books.
Dark Matter is a pretty typical beginning to a post apocalyptic series.
We have some unknown power which is disrupting the world wide power grid.
The author drops a few hints about the source of that power.
Humanity quickly devolves into chaos. There are roaming bands looking for food and looting.
In rural New Jersey a small group of exceedingly wealthy and well prepared survivalists link up in a small local bar.
Together, they decide that a cave in West Virginia would be the perfect place to hunker down, and wait for whatever happens next.
Along the way, they pick up some friends, and battle some evils doers.
Eventually they find themselves cornered in their cave. Will the cavalry come to the rescue before it is too late?
This book was a pleasant read. There are plenty of un answered questions. Although it is listed as a science fiction book, there is little scifi in this book. The author promises to ramp up the scifi in future installments.
If your looking for an enjoyable series to read, check out this one.
Setting: The eastern U.S. in the near future.
First Sentence: The engines lost thrust as the fuel ran dry.
Dark Matter is the first novel in the author's Hadron series which currently runs to eight books.
Dark Matter is a pretty typical beginning to a post apocalyptic series.
We have some unknown power which is disrupting the world wide power grid.
The author drops a few hints about the source of that power.
Humanity quickly devolves into chaos. There are roaming bands looking for food and looting.
In rural New Jersey a small group of exceedingly wealthy and well prepared survivalists link up in a small local bar.
Together, they decide that a cave in West Virginia would be the perfect place to hunker down, and wait for whatever happens next.
Along the way, they pick up some friends, and battle some evils doers.
Eventually they find themselves cornered in their cave. Will the cavalry come to the rescue before it is too late?
This book was a pleasant read. There are plenty of un answered questions. Although it is listed as a science fiction book, there is little scifi in this book. The author promises to ramp up the scifi in future installments.
If your looking for an enjoyable series to read, check out this one.
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Daughter of Sand and Stone by Libbie Hawker
Genre: Historical Fiction
Setting: 260 CE to 271 CE in Palmyra, Egypt, and Rome.
First Sentence: On the last day of spring, the moon is just past full and still visible, pale and round in the late morning sky.
Our main character, Zenobia, is the youngest daughter of a wealthy and well beloved merchant in Palmyra. Girls her age should be looking for a well placed man to marry. Zenobia's mother and sisters urge her to keep to a woman's place.
But Zenobia refuses. She believes the gods have a special plan for her.
So Zenobia sets out to acquire power and prestige.
Along the way she is aided by Zabdas. Once he was a trusted employee of Zenobia's father. He has sworn to protect and support her. He loves her. Yet he knows that , because of her ambition, he will never be good enough for her.
Zenobia follows the path the gods have set out for her. For each increase in power, the gods extract a terrible price.
In the end, Zenobia finds herself in the very place when strove to avoid: the wife of a well placed man.
This was an interesting book to read. By writing in second person present tense, the author adds a sense of immediacy to the telling of the tale. We are not reading a story of the past, but we are watching the tale unfold before our eyes.
Check out this book, as well as some of the author's other novels.
Setting: 260 CE to 271 CE in Palmyra, Egypt, and Rome.
First Sentence: On the last day of spring, the moon is just past full and still visible, pale and round in the late morning sky.
Our main character, Zenobia, is the youngest daughter of a wealthy and well beloved merchant in Palmyra. Girls her age should be looking for a well placed man to marry. Zenobia's mother and sisters urge her to keep to a woman's place.
But Zenobia refuses. She believes the gods have a special plan for her.
So Zenobia sets out to acquire power and prestige.
Along the way she is aided by Zabdas. Once he was a trusted employee of Zenobia's father. He has sworn to protect and support her. He loves her. Yet he knows that , because of her ambition, he will never be good enough for her.
Zenobia follows the path the gods have set out for her. For each increase in power, the gods extract a terrible price.
In the end, Zenobia finds herself in the very place when strove to avoid: the wife of a well placed man.
This was an interesting book to read. By writing in second person present tense, the author adds a sense of immediacy to the telling of the tale. We are not reading a story of the past, but we are watching the tale unfold before our eyes.
Check out this book, as well as some of the author's other novels.
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Code Breakers Book 1: Alpha by Colin F. Barnes
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: In the future, on earth, after a disastrous planet wide civil war.
First Sentence: In 2153 the lottery didn't just change lives it ended them.
This novel is the first in Barnes's Code Breakers series which currently runs to four books.
It is the twenty-second century. Earth has been blasted by a catastrophic civil war. Orbiting Earth is a space station where technologists experiment with improving the human race. On Earth there is the domed City Earth where citizens believe that they are the only survivors of the war. Outside the dome are humans who struggle to survive on the blasted, radioactive surface of the planet.
At each level humans exist in various combinations of biology and technology.
In City Earth, population control is an algorithm that decides who gets to live, and who must die. Our main character, Gerry Cardle, is the author of the algorithm. So it comes as a surprise to him when the algorithm selects him for elimination.
When his number comes up, Gerry escapes from the dome and heads into the wilder parts of the planet. There he joins a group of part-human, part-computer survivors. They are trying to defeat a malicious malware code which endangers City Earth as well as the survivors themselves .
Along the way Gerry discovers that there is something different about his brain and his coding abilities.
For me this was an OK book. Lots of action. Physical battles and cyber attacks. If you are into hard scifi, you might enjoy this novel.
Setting: In the future, on earth, after a disastrous planet wide civil war.
First Sentence: In 2153 the lottery didn't just change lives it ended them.
This novel is the first in Barnes's Code Breakers series which currently runs to four books.
It is the twenty-second century. Earth has been blasted by a catastrophic civil war. Orbiting Earth is a space station where technologists experiment with improving the human race. On Earth there is the domed City Earth where citizens believe that they are the only survivors of the war. Outside the dome are humans who struggle to survive on the blasted, radioactive surface of the planet.
At each level humans exist in various combinations of biology and technology.
In City Earth, population control is an algorithm that decides who gets to live, and who must die. Our main character, Gerry Cardle, is the author of the algorithm. So it comes as a surprise to him when the algorithm selects him for elimination.
When his number comes up, Gerry escapes from the dome and heads into the wilder parts of the planet. There he joins a group of part-human, part-computer survivors. They are trying to defeat a malicious malware code which endangers City Earth as well as the survivors themselves .
Along the way Gerry discovers that there is something different about his brain and his coding abilities.
For me this was an OK book. Lots of action. Physical battles and cyber attacks. If you are into hard scifi, you might enjoy this novel.
Thursday, August 25, 2016
Life II by Scott Spotson
Genre: Science Fiction, Time Travel
Setting: Earth around the turn of the twenty-first century.
First Sentence: Max Thorning turned over the ancient book in his hand.
This novel is the first in Spotson's Life II Series. He has written a sequel to Life II titled Bridge Through Time.
Time travel is a popular sub-genre of Science Fiction. Authors often have their characters jumping between time streams, avoiding paradoxes, and encountering alternate realities.
Spotson's concept of time travel is quite different. In his version of time travel, one can only travel back in time. No jumping forward. After jumping, the time traveller must live his life forward again. There is only one time line, but the traveler retains the memory of the first timeline.
Our main character, Max, is having a mid-life crisis. He is unhappy with his current life and feels that he could do better if he had a second chance. That chance comes in the form of an ancient tome which provides the directions to a mysterious apartment in Athens, Greece.
On a whim, Max chooses to take the jump into his past.
Almost immediately, he discovers how difficult it is to manage two lives. One of which only exists in his mind. His first life he calls Life I, and his new life he calls Life II.
When things don't turn out as he planned, Max tries to return to return to Life I. Thats when he learns the truth. He can never go back. The pain caused by his decision follows him for the rest of his life.
With the help of some friends and loved ones, Max eventually learns a valuable lesson.
I liked this book. Some parts were better than others. But for me it was an easy read with a unique concept of time travel.
Setting: Earth around the turn of the twenty-first century.
First Sentence: Max Thorning turned over the ancient book in his hand.
This novel is the first in Spotson's Life II Series. He has written a sequel to Life II titled Bridge Through Time.
Time travel is a popular sub-genre of Science Fiction. Authors often have their characters jumping between time streams, avoiding paradoxes, and encountering alternate realities.
Spotson's concept of time travel is quite different. In his version of time travel, one can only travel back in time. No jumping forward. After jumping, the time traveller must live his life forward again. There is only one time line, but the traveler retains the memory of the first timeline.
Our main character, Max, is having a mid-life crisis. He is unhappy with his current life and feels that he could do better if he had a second chance. That chance comes in the form of an ancient tome which provides the directions to a mysterious apartment in Athens, Greece.
On a whim, Max chooses to take the jump into his past.
Almost immediately, he discovers how difficult it is to manage two lives. One of which only exists in his mind. His first life he calls Life I, and his new life he calls Life II.
When things don't turn out as he planned, Max tries to return to return to Life I. Thats when he learns the truth. He can never go back. The pain caused by his decision follows him for the rest of his life.
With the help of some friends and loved ones, Max eventually learns a valuable lesson.
I liked this book. Some parts were better than others. But for me it was an easy read with a unique concept of time travel.
Thursday, August 4, 2016
The Chronothon by Nathan Van Coops
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: A time when time travel is possible.
First Sentence: I feel very alive considering I haven's been born yet.
This novel is the second in the author's time travel trilogy. The first book is titled "In Times Like These." Although this is the second book of the series, the author intended it as a stand alone novel. To help the reader, Van Coops provided one explanatory information, and a glossary of terms.
Time travel is real.
Our main character, Ben, has just been introduced to the culture of time travel. Time travelers have developed a community of scientists and adventurers who travel and communicate between time lines.
Occasionally the time travelers stage a Chronothon. This is an exciting race/ scavenger hunt through different places in time.
But this year is different. Racers are dying. Some have been murdered. Some have been killed when the race route passes through a very dangerous time line.
Who is killing the racers? Who has planned this dangerous game? And, why?
Time travel has its problems: Avoiding paradoxes (multiple copies of people existing side by side in the same timeline), and creating new timelines (a change in history creating parallel time lines).
The author does a good job of describing his version of time travel and time lines. But it sometimes gets a little confusing.
Over, all. For me. It was an okay book.
Setting: A time when time travel is possible.
First Sentence: I feel very alive considering I haven's been born yet.
This novel is the second in the author's time travel trilogy. The first book is titled "In Times Like These." Although this is the second book of the series, the author intended it as a stand alone novel. To help the reader, Van Coops provided one explanatory information, and a glossary of terms.
Time travel is real.
Our main character, Ben, has just been introduced to the culture of time travel. Time travelers have developed a community of scientists and adventurers who travel and communicate between time lines.
Occasionally the time travelers stage a Chronothon. This is an exciting race/ scavenger hunt through different places in time.
But this year is different. Racers are dying. Some have been murdered. Some have been killed when the race route passes through a very dangerous time line.
Who is killing the racers? Who has planned this dangerous game? And, why?
Time travel has its problems: Avoiding paradoxes (multiple copies of people existing side by side in the same timeline), and creating new timelines (a change in history creating parallel time lines).
The author does a good job of describing his version of time travel and time lines. But it sometimes gets a little confusing.
Over, all. For me. It was an okay book.
Monday, July 11, 2016
Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: On different planets in the Dune Universe. It begins about eighty years after the defeat of the thinking machines.
First Sentence: Manford Torondo had lost count of his many missions.
This novel is the eighteenth book in the Dune Universe saga. It is the first in the Great Schools of Dune prequel trilogy.
Humanity has defeated the last of the thinking machines. There is a general distrust of computers and higher technology. Into this climate of fear there begins a Luddite style revolt against technology. There also begins a movement to train humans to due tasks which were once performed.
In this novel we see the development of the political factors which play a great part in the plot of the classic novel Dune: the Sisterhood which eventually becomes the Bene Gesserit, the Mentat human computers, the Suk school of incorruptible doctors, and the development of the Spacing Guild of navigators. We also learn the basis for the Harkonnen-Atreides rivalry.
The authors jump back and forth between the different characters and plot lines. The first half of the book contains a great deal of exposition which slowed the plot down and made the novel hard to read. Towards the end of the book the action picked up and made the reading more enjoyable.
If you are new to the Dune universe, I suggest you read the novels in order of publication starting with the classic original novel Dune.
I struggled with this book because it had been years since I read a Dune novel so for me it was just an okay book.
Setting: On different planets in the Dune Universe. It begins about eighty years after the defeat of the thinking machines.
First Sentence: Manford Torondo had lost count of his many missions.
This novel is the eighteenth book in the Dune Universe saga. It is the first in the Great Schools of Dune prequel trilogy.
Humanity has defeated the last of the thinking machines. There is a general distrust of computers and higher technology. Into this climate of fear there begins a Luddite style revolt against technology. There also begins a movement to train humans to due tasks which were once performed.
In this novel we see the development of the political factors which play a great part in the plot of the classic novel Dune: the Sisterhood which eventually becomes the Bene Gesserit, the Mentat human computers, the Suk school of incorruptible doctors, and the development of the Spacing Guild of navigators. We also learn the basis for the Harkonnen-Atreides rivalry.
The authors jump back and forth between the different characters and plot lines. The first half of the book contains a great deal of exposition which slowed the plot down and made the novel hard to read. Towards the end of the book the action picked up and made the reading more enjoyable.
If you are new to the Dune universe, I suggest you read the novels in order of publication starting with the classic original novel Dune.
I struggled with this book because it had been years since I read a Dune novel so for me it was just an okay book.
Monday, May 30, 2016
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Genre: Science Fiction, Computer Gaming Fiction
Setting: Earth 2044, and in a Massively Multiplayer on-line game.
First Sentence: Everyone remembers where they were and what they were doing when they first heard about the contest.
Wow.
What a fun novel to read. It's a enjoyable mash-up of computer gaming and twentieth century pop culture.
Earth in 2044 is not a nice place to live. Global climate change has damaged the planet's ecosystem. There are lots of poor, hungry people.
A reclusive, billionaire, computer coder has created a massively multiplayer on line game called Oasis. Oasis is a utopia where people can go to escape the real world. Not only are people playing games, some are living their life in Oasis. Some are going to school, some are making a living, and some are having relationships through their on-line avatars.
Then, the creator of Oasis dies. He has no family or heirs. So he leaves it up to the computer gamers. He creates an incredibly difficult quest. The winner of the quest will win the entire Oasis program.
Our main character, Parzival, is a young kid just out of high school eking out a living on Oasis. When the contest is announced, he is determined to win.
Five years later, Parzival becomes the first person to solve the first puzzle of the contest. Suddenly, he is famous. But there are those who will win at any cost. When Parzival's "real life" family is murdered, Parzival becomes more determined to win the game.
Along the way, with the help of his on-line gaming friends, Parzival learns some lessons reality and virtual reality.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
It was a real page turner. And I liked all of the pop culture and computer gaming references.
The best novel I've read in a while.
Check it out.
Setting: Earth 2044, and in a Massively Multiplayer on-line game.
First Sentence: Everyone remembers where they were and what they were doing when they first heard about the contest.
Wow.
What a fun novel to read. It's a enjoyable mash-up of computer gaming and twentieth century pop culture.
Earth in 2044 is not a nice place to live. Global climate change has damaged the planet's ecosystem. There are lots of poor, hungry people.
A reclusive, billionaire, computer coder has created a massively multiplayer on line game called Oasis. Oasis is a utopia where people can go to escape the real world. Not only are people playing games, some are living their life in Oasis. Some are going to school, some are making a living, and some are having relationships through their on-line avatars.
Then, the creator of Oasis dies. He has no family or heirs. So he leaves it up to the computer gamers. He creates an incredibly difficult quest. The winner of the quest will win the entire Oasis program.
Our main character, Parzival, is a young kid just out of high school eking out a living on Oasis. When the contest is announced, he is determined to win.
Five years later, Parzival becomes the first person to solve the first puzzle of the contest. Suddenly, he is famous. But there are those who will win at any cost. When Parzival's "real life" family is murdered, Parzival becomes more determined to win the game.
Along the way, with the help of his on-line gaming friends, Parzival learns some lessons reality and virtual reality.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
It was a real page turner. And I liked all of the pop culture and computer gaming references.
The best novel I've read in a while.
Check it out.
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
1805 by Richard Woodman
Genre: Historical Fiction, Nautical Fiction
Setting: At sea during the Napoleonic Wars
First Sentence: "Sir! Sir!" Midshipman Frey threw open the door of the captain's cabin with a precipitate lack of formality.
1805 is the sixth book of Woodman's Nathaniel Drinkwater series which extends to thirteen novels.
Our main character, Nathaniel Drinkwater, is in command of a frigate in Britain's royal navy. He, along with many other ships, are blockading French ports and the English Channel. There is a fear that Emperor Napoleon will attempt to invade England.
France possesses a more powerful army, but England has a better trained Navy. So, it is the duty of the English fleet to stop the invasion and defend England.
The year 1805 is a fateful one in English history. In this year, Admiral Nelson leads the fleet at the battle of Trafalgar. An English victory will destroy the combined French and Spanish fleet. An English defeat opens the door for an invasion.
Due to the machinations of Drinkwater's nemesis, the master spy Santhonax, Drinkwater becomes an observer rather than a participant in England's most famous battle. And, as a prisoner, Drinkwater experiences what battle is like for those who remain below deck during a naval battle.
This is a stand alone novel. Yet there are references to the action in the first five books of the series. Especially, Drinkwater's interactions with Santhonax and with Santhonax's wife. I suggest reading the novels in chronological order.
I liked this book. Nautical fiction set in the golden age of sail is a favorite genre for me. Lots of action, and the politics above and below decks. Give this series a read.
Setting: At sea during the Napoleonic Wars
First Sentence: "Sir! Sir!" Midshipman Frey threw open the door of the captain's cabin with a precipitate lack of formality.
1805 is the sixth book of Woodman's Nathaniel Drinkwater series which extends to thirteen novels.
Our main character, Nathaniel Drinkwater, is in command of a frigate in Britain's royal navy. He, along with many other ships, are blockading French ports and the English Channel. There is a fear that Emperor Napoleon will attempt to invade England.
France possesses a more powerful army, but England has a better trained Navy. So, it is the duty of the English fleet to stop the invasion and defend England.
The year 1805 is a fateful one in English history. In this year, Admiral Nelson leads the fleet at the battle of Trafalgar. An English victory will destroy the combined French and Spanish fleet. An English defeat opens the door for an invasion.
Due to the machinations of Drinkwater's nemesis, the master spy Santhonax, Drinkwater becomes an observer rather than a participant in England's most famous battle. And, as a prisoner, Drinkwater experiences what battle is like for those who remain below deck during a naval battle.
This is a stand alone novel. Yet there are references to the action in the first five books of the series. Especially, Drinkwater's interactions with Santhonax and with Santhonax's wife. I suggest reading the novels in chronological order.
I liked this book. Nautical fiction set in the golden age of sail is a favorite genre for me. Lots of action, and the politics above and below decks. Give this series a read.
Monday, May 16, 2016
Colossus by D. F. Jones
Genre: Sci Fi
Setting: In a unique version of the not too distant future.
First Sentence: Forbin leaned back in the plastic smelling opulence of the armor-plated car of the Presidential fleet, gazing at the dart board neck of the Marine driver.
This novel is the third in D. F. Jones's Colossus series which currently runs to three books.
Originally published in 1955, this novel is placed in a peculiar version of of a future with computers, teletype machines, disposable clothing, perforated tape, and oil burning lamps.
For years the government has been working in secret on a supercomputer intelligent enough to prevent war. Now it is time to turn the computer on and present it to the world.
But things do not turn out as planned. There is another super computer. The two computers join forces. And soon they are calling the shots.
Will humans find a way to gain control or will humanity come to revere the computers as gods?
This was a fun novel to read with some anachronistic technology and a quirky 60's vibe.
Check it out.
Setting: In a unique version of the not too distant future.
First Sentence: Forbin leaned back in the plastic smelling opulence of the armor-plated car of the Presidential fleet, gazing at the dart board neck of the Marine driver.
This novel is the third in D. F. Jones's Colossus series which currently runs to three books.
Originally published in 1955, this novel is placed in a peculiar version of of a future with computers, teletype machines, disposable clothing, perforated tape, and oil burning lamps.
For years the government has been working in secret on a supercomputer intelligent enough to prevent war. Now it is time to turn the computer on and present it to the world.
But things do not turn out as planned. There is another super computer. The two computers join forces. And soon they are calling the shots.
Will humans find a way to gain control or will humanity come to revere the computers as gods?
This was a fun novel to read with some anachronistic technology and a quirky 60's vibe.
Check it out.
Saturday, April 30, 2016
Wanderer's Escape by Simon Goodson
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: In space aboard an advanced alien spaceship.
First Sentence: "You! Get get over there!" the guard barked at Jess.
This book is the first in Simon Goodson's Wanderer series which currently has four novels.
As our story begins, Jess is a slave. He is part of a slave gang that tasked with opening abandoned space vessels. Some of them have been booby trapped. The slave before Jess has been killed trying to open a ship.
Now its Jess's turn.
But the ship possesses an intelligence. And for some reason, the ship has chosen Jess to be its next captain.
So Jess enters the ship, and the ship somehow contacts Jess. He quickly learns that he has some control over the vessel. Jess and two other slaves use the vessel to escape to freedom.
The ship is named Wanderer. It is the most advanced spaceship in the galaxy. As time goes on, Jess learns more about Wanderer and how truly powerful it is. Which means that the ship is coveted by space pirates and greedy space colonies.
Although Jess does not want to fight, he is forced to fight to defend the ship and its crew. And after each battle Jess is truly sorry for the loss of life which resulted from each battle.
Eventually, Jess needs to learn a hard lesson about trust.
This book was a fun read. I was looking for something easy read after reading a few hefty tomes and this novel fit the bill. I liked Goodson's easy to read style. For me it was an pleasant read.
Setting: In space aboard an advanced alien spaceship.
First Sentence: "You! Get get over there!" the guard barked at Jess.
This book is the first in Simon Goodson's Wanderer series which currently has four novels.
As our story begins, Jess is a slave. He is part of a slave gang that tasked with opening abandoned space vessels. Some of them have been booby trapped. The slave before Jess has been killed trying to open a ship.
Now its Jess's turn.
But the ship possesses an intelligence. And for some reason, the ship has chosen Jess to be its next captain.
So Jess enters the ship, and the ship somehow contacts Jess. He quickly learns that he has some control over the vessel. Jess and two other slaves use the vessel to escape to freedom.
The ship is named Wanderer. It is the most advanced spaceship in the galaxy. As time goes on, Jess learns more about Wanderer and how truly powerful it is. Which means that the ship is coveted by space pirates and greedy space colonies.
Although Jess does not want to fight, he is forced to fight to defend the ship and its crew. And after each battle Jess is truly sorry for the loss of life which resulted from each battle.
Eventually, Jess needs to learn a hard lesson about trust.
This book was a fun read. I was looking for something easy read after reading a few hefty tomes and this novel fit the bill. I liked Goodson's easy to read style. For me it was an pleasant read.
Thursday, April 21, 2016
Enemies at Home by Lindsey Davis
Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: Ancient Rome, 89 AD
First Sentence: Even before I started, I knew I should say no.
This novel is the second in Lindsey Davis's Flavia Alba series. This series is a spin-off from Davis's Falco series also based in ancient Rome.
Flavia Albia's father is Marcus Falco. Flavia was a British orphan adopted by Falco an his wife. Now Albia is following in her father's footsteps and working as a paid informer.
Flavia has been asked by her friend Manlius Faustus to investigate a murder. It seems that a newlywed couple has been killed, their silver plate stolen, and their slaves claiming sanctuary in a nearby temple. In Rome, when a slave holder is killed, suspicion usually falls upon the slaves. They are questioned under torture and then executed.
Manlius has asked Flavia to examine the evidence and question the slaves, in order to show that the slaves are truly guilty of the crime.
As she investigates, Flavia begins to understand what life is like for slaves. Although they are possessed by their masters they have emotions and relationships often unseen by their owners.
And lurking in the background is the knowledge that they can be sold off at the whim of their master. In the end, Flavia learns that this is the ultimate cause of the deaths of the newlyweds.
I enjoyed this book. I am a big fan of Lindsey Davis's novels. I's sure that I 'll soon pick up another Flavia Albia novel.
Setting: Ancient Rome, 89 AD
First Sentence: Even before I started, I knew I should say no.
This novel is the second in Lindsey Davis's Flavia Alba series. This series is a spin-off from Davis's Falco series also based in ancient Rome.
Flavia Albia's father is Marcus Falco. Flavia was a British orphan adopted by Falco an his wife. Now Albia is following in her father's footsteps and working as a paid informer.
Flavia has been asked by her friend Manlius Faustus to investigate a murder. It seems that a newlywed couple has been killed, their silver plate stolen, and their slaves claiming sanctuary in a nearby temple. In Rome, when a slave holder is killed, suspicion usually falls upon the slaves. They are questioned under torture and then executed.
Manlius has asked Flavia to examine the evidence and question the slaves, in order to show that the slaves are truly guilty of the crime.
As she investigates, Flavia begins to understand what life is like for slaves. Although they are possessed by their masters they have emotions and relationships often unseen by their owners.
And lurking in the background is the knowledge that they can be sold off at the whim of their master. In the end, Flavia learns that this is the ultimate cause of the deaths of the newlyweds.
I enjoyed this book. I am a big fan of Lindsey Davis's novels. I's sure that I 'll soon pick up another Flavia Albia novel.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Scandal Takes a Holiday by Lindsey Davis
Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: Rome, 76 AD
First Sentence: "If he chucks a stone, he's done for," muttered Petronius.
This novel is the sixteenth in Davis's Falco mystery series which currently runs to twenty books. There are also five novels featuring Falco's adopted daughter Albia.
Falco is in the port city of Ostia on a missing person case. His friend Petro is also in Ostia on an investigation. Since Ostia is near to Rome, both of our intrepid investigators have brought their families along. For Falco, this means bringing his children, his dog, and his beautiful and intelligent wife Helena.
Unfortunately, Falco's job is not as straight forward as he expected it would be. The missing person is the author of the scandals column in Rome's news organ the Daily Gazette. It is possible that our missing person's writing may have gained him some deadly enemies.
While investigating, Falco uncovers what appears to be a kidnapping scheme run by pirates. It may be that our scandals author may have discovered this as well.
Of course, Falco's family becomes involved with the plot. Helena helps with the investigation. Falco's Pa reveals that he is involved in an art smuggling business. And Falco's Uncle Fulvius (The one nobody ever talks about) makes an appearance.
As the story progresses, it seems that all of Falco's questions take him further away from his missing person assignment. But in the end, the loose ends are resolved and justice prevails.
The best part of reading a Falco book is observing his family life. With his Ma and Pa, his sisters, the kids, the dog and his wife Helena, we see what life in a Roman family might have been like.
I enjoyed this book.
Setting: Rome, 76 AD
First Sentence: "If he chucks a stone, he's done for," muttered Petronius.
This novel is the sixteenth in Davis's Falco mystery series which currently runs to twenty books. There are also five novels featuring Falco's adopted daughter Albia.
Falco is in the port city of Ostia on a missing person case. His friend Petro is also in Ostia on an investigation. Since Ostia is near to Rome, both of our intrepid investigators have brought their families along. For Falco, this means bringing his children, his dog, and his beautiful and intelligent wife Helena.
Unfortunately, Falco's job is not as straight forward as he expected it would be. The missing person is the author of the scandals column in Rome's news organ the Daily Gazette. It is possible that our missing person's writing may have gained him some deadly enemies.
While investigating, Falco uncovers what appears to be a kidnapping scheme run by pirates. It may be that our scandals author may have discovered this as well.
Of course, Falco's family becomes involved with the plot. Helena helps with the investigation. Falco's Pa reveals that he is involved in an art smuggling business. And Falco's Uncle Fulvius (The one nobody ever talks about) makes an appearance.
As the story progresses, it seems that all of Falco's questions take him further away from his missing person assignment. But in the end, the loose ends are resolved and justice prevails.
The best part of reading a Falco book is observing his family life. With his Ma and Pa, his sisters, the kids, the dog and his wife Helena, we see what life in a Roman family might have been like.
I enjoyed this book.
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Persona Non Grata by Ruth Downie
Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: Southern Gaul, 119 AD
First Sentence: Justinius was lying in the stinking dark of the ship's hold, bruised and beaten, feeling every breath twist hot knives in this chest.
This novel is the third in Downie's Gaius Ruso mystery series which currently runs to six books.
Or main character, Ruso is a doctor for a Roman military unit in Britannia. One night, in an attempt to protect a young boy from being roughed up by some Roman legionaries, Ruso breaks his foot. while waiting for his leg to heal, Ruso receives an enigmatic note from his brother asking him to come home.
So Ruso, and his "barbarian" woman Tilla head to Ruso's family farm in southern Gaul. Once he arrives he finds his family in disarray. His sisters are demanding a dowery. His brother is bungling the family finances. And, the family is close to loosing the farm to bankruptcy.
The last thing they needed was Ruso to show up. No one will admit to writing the note.
Then, while Ruso is trying to get a handle on all of the family issues, the husband of Ruso's ex-wife dies unexpectedly at Ruso's farm. The husband looks like he has been poisoned. And Ruso is a prime suspect.
Now we follow Ruso and Tilla as they sort out all of the family's problems. Once again, Tilla shows that she is the smart, level-headed partner that Ruso needs.
Will Ruso and Tilla be able to sort out the murder, and the family's problems?
I enjoyed reading about Ruso and his messy family life. In my opinion, it was a realistic peek at daily life in an ancient Roman family.
Setting: Southern Gaul, 119 AD
First Sentence: Justinius was lying in the stinking dark of the ship's hold, bruised and beaten, feeling every breath twist hot knives in this chest.
This novel is the third in Downie's Gaius Ruso mystery series which currently runs to six books.
Or main character, Ruso is a doctor for a Roman military unit in Britannia. One night, in an attempt to protect a young boy from being roughed up by some Roman legionaries, Ruso breaks his foot. while waiting for his leg to heal, Ruso receives an enigmatic note from his brother asking him to come home.
So Ruso, and his "barbarian" woman Tilla head to Ruso's family farm in southern Gaul. Once he arrives he finds his family in disarray. His sisters are demanding a dowery. His brother is bungling the family finances. And, the family is close to loosing the farm to bankruptcy.
The last thing they needed was Ruso to show up. No one will admit to writing the note.
Then, while Ruso is trying to get a handle on all of the family issues, the husband of Ruso's ex-wife dies unexpectedly at Ruso's farm. The husband looks like he has been poisoned. And Ruso is a prime suspect.
Now we follow Ruso and Tilla as they sort out all of the family's problems. Once again, Tilla shows that she is the smart, level-headed partner that Ruso needs.
Will Ruso and Tilla be able to sort out the murder, and the family's problems?
I enjoyed reading about Ruso and his messy family life. In my opinion, it was a realistic peek at daily life in an ancient Roman family.
Sunday, February 28, 2016
Nemesis by Lindsey Davis
Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: Rome, 79 AD
First Sentence: I find it surprising more people are not killed over dinner at home.
This novel is the twentieth in Davis's Falco series.
As our story begins, there is sadness is Falco's home. Falco's new born child dies a birth. Then Falco discovers that his father has died.
As his Pa's sole male heir, Falco inherits his father's wealth and business. At the funeral, Pa's female friend announces that she is with child. The will seems to indicate that Falco may have to share the estate with the unborn child, if the child is male.
To make matters worse, a supplier and his wife who are owed money by Falco's auction house turn up dead. Falco, and his friend Petro, begin to investigate the murder. They soon discover that there are more deaths related to this case.
The clues lead them in a startling direction. It seems that someone who has been the nemesis of the family for years may be the ultimate culprit.
I liked this book. Lindsey Davis is one of my favorite authors. She uses a unique voice to tell us a wonderfully tangled mystery.
Setting: Rome, 79 AD
First Sentence: I find it surprising more people are not killed over dinner at home.
This novel is the twentieth in Davis's Falco series.
As our story begins, there is sadness is Falco's home. Falco's new born child dies a birth. Then Falco discovers that his father has died.
As his Pa's sole male heir, Falco inherits his father's wealth and business. At the funeral, Pa's female friend announces that she is with child. The will seems to indicate that Falco may have to share the estate with the unborn child, if the child is male.
To make matters worse, a supplier and his wife who are owed money by Falco's auction house turn up dead. Falco, and his friend Petro, begin to investigate the murder. They soon discover that there are more deaths related to this case.
The clues lead them in a startling direction. It seems that someone who has been the nemesis of the family for years may be the ultimate culprit.
I liked this book. Lindsey Davis is one of my favorite authors. She uses a unique voice to tell us a wonderfully tangled mystery.
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Unnatural History Pax Britannia Book One by Jonathan Green
Genre: Steam Punk
Setting: Victorian England, 1997 AD
First Sentence: The jangling of the doorbell rang through the echoing space of the entrance hall.
This novel is the first in the author's Pax Britannia series which contains several novels and short stories.
In this novel the author has created a unique version of the steam punk genre. The time is 1997 AD. The place is London, England. Queen Victoria has been on the throne for 160 years. The British Empire controls most of Earth as well as colonies on the Moon and on Mars.
Our main character, Ulysses Quicksilver, has returned to London after having been presumed lost and dead for over a year. Almost immediately he is tasked by the British government to solve a murder.
The night watchman of the Natural History Museum has been killed. The offices of a prominent scientist have been ransacked. And the scientist's difference engine, which contains vital research has gone missing.
Ulysses soon discovers a plot which puts the Queen and the Empire itself at risk. Will Quicksilver find a way to defeat the criminals and save the Empire?
I enjoyed this novel. The author's unique vision of a twentieth century steam punk England piqued my interest and made this novel great fun to read.
Setting: Victorian England, 1997 AD
First Sentence: The jangling of the doorbell rang through the echoing space of the entrance hall.
This novel is the first in the author's Pax Britannia series which contains several novels and short stories.
In this novel the author has created a unique version of the steam punk genre. The time is 1997 AD. The place is London, England. Queen Victoria has been on the throne for 160 years. The British Empire controls most of Earth as well as colonies on the Moon and on Mars.
Our main character, Ulysses Quicksilver, has returned to London after having been presumed lost and dead for over a year. Almost immediately he is tasked by the British government to solve a murder.
The night watchman of the Natural History Museum has been killed. The offices of a prominent scientist have been ransacked. And the scientist's difference engine, which contains vital research has gone missing.
Ulysses soon discovers a plot which puts the Queen and the Empire itself at risk. Will Quicksilver find a way to defeat the criminals and save the Empire?
I enjoyed this novel. The author's unique vision of a twentieth century steam punk England piqued my interest and made this novel great fun to read.
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Spinward Fringe Broadcast 0: Origins by Randolf Lalonde
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: In space, in the future.
First Sentence: The odd's weren't in our favor.
This novel is a prequel to the author's Spaniard Fringe series which currently runs to ten novels.
Out in interstellar space there are many inhabited planets. Ruthless corporations plunder these planets for their resources, technology, and cheap labor.
Scattered through the galaxy are also space ports which act as safe harbors for independent spacefaring vessels. One of these ports is the space station Freeground. For recreation on Freeground there are teams of people who compete by playing spaceship simulation games. One team, lead by our main character Jonas Valent, has become so good that they routinely defeat military simulation teams.
They are so good infact that the military has approached them to become an actual spaceship crew. The military leaders have decided that they would be the perfect crew to pilot secretive missions.
After they have proved themselves, they are given a given a ship and sent out to conduct shadow ship missions. They are tasked with obtaining advance tech devices any way they can.
In between visits to space ports, they battle the corporations' fleets.
Will Jonas and his crew evade the corporate fleets, and return to Freeground to complete their mission?
This novel is a prequel to the series, but it was not first in order of publication, When I began reading this novel, I was somewhat confused. There was a lot of exposition that I didn't understand. But I kept reading, and the novel became more enjoyable.
The plot has lots of space battles in between visits to space ports, so if you like high tech and space battles, you'll probably like this book.
I suggest that you read them in order of publication.
Setting: In space, in the future.
First Sentence: The odd's weren't in our favor.
This novel is a prequel to the author's Spaniard Fringe series which currently runs to ten novels.
Out in interstellar space there are many inhabited planets. Ruthless corporations plunder these planets for their resources, technology, and cheap labor.
Scattered through the galaxy are also space ports which act as safe harbors for independent spacefaring vessels. One of these ports is the space station Freeground. For recreation on Freeground there are teams of people who compete by playing spaceship simulation games. One team, lead by our main character Jonas Valent, has become so good that they routinely defeat military simulation teams.
They are so good infact that the military has approached them to become an actual spaceship crew. The military leaders have decided that they would be the perfect crew to pilot secretive missions.
After they have proved themselves, they are given a given a ship and sent out to conduct shadow ship missions. They are tasked with obtaining advance tech devices any way they can.
In between visits to space ports, they battle the corporations' fleets.
Will Jonas and his crew evade the corporate fleets, and return to Freeground to complete their mission?
This novel is a prequel to the series, but it was not first in order of publication, When I began reading this novel, I was somewhat confused. There was a lot of exposition that I didn't understand. But I kept reading, and the novel became more enjoyable.
The plot has lots of space battles in between visits to space ports, so if you like high tech and space battles, you'll probably like this book.
I suggest that you read them in order of publication.
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