Genre: Historical Fiction
Setting: The late 1700's in England, America, and at sea.
This novel is the first in Wareham's A Poor Man at the Gate series. This series currently runs to seven novels.
This novel is a rags to riches story. Being the first book in the series there is a lot of exposition. In this novel we get the back story of Tom Andrew's life. He finds his way from a wanted criminal, to a fortunate privateer, to a ruthless New York businessman, then to a respectable English factory owner, and finally to millionaire owner of an upper crust manor estate.
Along the way, Tom learns how to treat his loyal allies and employees well. And, he also knows how to treat those who do him wrong.
The author uses a telling rather than showing style of story telling. The plot was interesting, but predictable.
For me, it was an OK read.
Thursday, May 28, 2015
Monday, May 25, 2015
Straits of Hell by Taylor Anderson
Genre: Alternate History
Setting: On an alternate version of Earth, during the World War Two era.
First Sentence: If I have discovered one genuinely profound truth in all my travels and adventures, it is this: mercy is a moral construct that does not exist in nature.
This novel is the ninth in the continuing story of Captain Matthew Reddy and the crew of the
USS Walker - the destroyermen.
Several years ago the USS Walker (DD-163) sailed into a strange storm, and was somehow transported to a different version of Earth. Soon, they joined forces with the peaceable, lemur-like "Cats" to battle the evil reptilian Grik.
With each successive novel, the author expands the scope of this strange world. We learn that there are several groups of humans who have arrived from different points in time: from the dark ages to the WWII era.
Generally, most of the humans join with the Destroyermen to battle the Grik. But, some groups have their own agenda.
In this chapter of the series the author adds some new wrinkles to the tale.
It seems that not all of the humans on this version of Earth have come from the same historical time line.
There are some pretty advanced groups who are practicing politics on a global scale. They have been watching the battles between the Grik and the Allies. Yet they refuse to get involved.
There is lots of great battle action in this novel. On the Eastern front, the Allies battle the fanatical forces of the Dominion. The Dominion are humans that practice a strange religion which seems to be a blend of the Spanish Inquisition and Aztec beliefs. They are led by the diabolical Don Hernan.
In the East, the Allies continue to fight the Grik. The Grik are in a state of internal turmoil. With the death of their Celestial Mother they quarrel with each other over who will be the leader of all the Grik.
Additionally, the Allies and the Grik themselves are learning more about the true nature of the Grik race.
Once again, Anderson has delivered an action packed adventure. There are great action scenes, both on land and sea. And we learn a little bit more about the strange Earth the destroyermen are in. I enjoy Anderson's easy to read style. The pages fly by and soon you've finished another great novel.
If you are interested in this book, I suggest that you start the series at the beginning. Taylor uses a large cast of characters. The Lemurians and the Grik have oddly spelled names. Fortunately, there is an extensive list of characters at the front of the book.
I truly enjoyed this novel and I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Setting: On an alternate version of Earth, during the World War Two era.
First Sentence: If I have discovered one genuinely profound truth in all my travels and adventures, it is this: mercy is a moral construct that does not exist in nature.
This novel is the ninth in the continuing story of Captain Matthew Reddy and the crew of the
USS Walker - the destroyermen.
Several years ago the USS Walker (DD-163) sailed into a strange storm, and was somehow transported to a different version of Earth. Soon, they joined forces with the peaceable, lemur-like "Cats" to battle the evil reptilian Grik.
With each successive novel, the author expands the scope of this strange world. We learn that there are several groups of humans who have arrived from different points in time: from the dark ages to the WWII era.
Generally, most of the humans join with the Destroyermen to battle the Grik. But, some groups have their own agenda.
In this chapter of the series the author adds some new wrinkles to the tale.
It seems that not all of the humans on this version of Earth have come from the same historical time line.
There are some pretty advanced groups who are practicing politics on a global scale. They have been watching the battles between the Grik and the Allies. Yet they refuse to get involved.
There is lots of great battle action in this novel. On the Eastern front, the Allies battle the fanatical forces of the Dominion. The Dominion are humans that practice a strange religion which seems to be a blend of the Spanish Inquisition and Aztec beliefs. They are led by the diabolical Don Hernan.
In the East, the Allies continue to fight the Grik. The Grik are in a state of internal turmoil. With the death of their Celestial Mother they quarrel with each other over who will be the leader of all the Grik.
Additionally, the Allies and the Grik themselves are learning more about the true nature of the Grik race.
Once again, Anderson has delivered an action packed adventure. There are great action scenes, both on land and sea. And we learn a little bit more about the strange Earth the destroyermen are in. I enjoy Anderson's easy to read style. The pages fly by and soon you've finished another great novel.
If you are interested in this book, I suggest that you start the series at the beginning. Taylor uses a large cast of characters. The Lemurians and the Grik have oddly spelled names. Fortunately, there is an extensive list of characters at the front of the book.
I truly enjoyed this novel and I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Thursday, May 14, 2015
The Most Productive People in History by Michael Rank
Genre: Nonfiction, History
First Sentence: Nobody drank as much coffee as 19th-century novelist Honore de Balzac.
In his book, the author had identified eighteen historical figures who he believes displayed exceptional productivity in their lives. Each individual accomplished significantly more in their lives than would seem possible.
The author has divided the group into four categories: Scientists and Inventors, Writers and Artists, Statesmen, and Philosophers and Theologians.
For each figure, the author provides an essay which includes a brief biography. The author then describes each person's work habits and how those habits lead them into being so prolific.
As I read, I discovered some of the habits that seemed to be common among all of the individuals:
I did learn a few things so, that's good.
First Sentence: Nobody drank as much coffee as 19th-century novelist Honore de Balzac.
In his book, the author had identified eighteen historical figures who he believes displayed exceptional productivity in their lives. Each individual accomplished significantly more in their lives than would seem possible.
The author has divided the group into four categories: Scientists and Inventors, Writers and Artists, Statesmen, and Philosophers and Theologians.
For each figure, the author provides an essay which includes a brief biography. The author then describes each person's work habits and how those habits lead them into being so prolific.
As I read, I discovered some of the habits that seemed to be common among all of the individuals:
- Stay focused on the important things.
- Ignore the unimportant things.
- Use your time wisely.
- Read a lot.
- Delegate when possible.
I did learn a few things so, that's good.
Thursday, May 7, 2015
Exodus by Andreas Christensen
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: Earth in the year 2072
First Sentence: Years ago, far too many to remember, the planet had been teeming with life.
This novel is the first in Christensen's Exodus Trilogy.
Several years ago a disaster befell the Mars Colony. Since then, humanity had forsaken the study of the stars. Humanity focused its attention on Earth. So Earth was not prepared when a rogue planet entered the solar system and destroyed Mars. It soon became clear that Earth would soon suffer the same fate.
A terrorist strike, exploding a nuclear bomb on U.S. soil, drastically altered the political climate in the United States. The Constitution was rewritten. The U.S. became a police state.
The destruction of Earth was inevitable. The political leaders rushed to build a star ship capable of carrying a select few to colonize a distant planet. Those selected to go needed the right mix of skills, and genes, and political allegiances.
But there are a few who disagree.
This novel is the first in a trilogy. The main characters are introduced. The story arcs have begun. There are no resolutions of plot lines.
I would have liked to have a little more drama. It seemed that the star ship and its passengers got to their destination too easily.
I enjoyed reading this book.
Setting: Earth in the year 2072
First Sentence: Years ago, far too many to remember, the planet had been teeming with life.
This novel is the first in Christensen's Exodus Trilogy.
Several years ago a disaster befell the Mars Colony. Since then, humanity had forsaken the study of the stars. Humanity focused its attention on Earth. So Earth was not prepared when a rogue planet entered the solar system and destroyed Mars. It soon became clear that Earth would soon suffer the same fate.
A terrorist strike, exploding a nuclear bomb on U.S. soil, drastically altered the political climate in the United States. The Constitution was rewritten. The U.S. became a police state.
The destruction of Earth was inevitable. The political leaders rushed to build a star ship capable of carrying a select few to colonize a distant planet. Those selected to go needed the right mix of skills, and genes, and political allegiances.
But there are a few who disagree.
This novel is the first in a trilogy. The main characters are introduced. The story arcs have begun. There are no resolutions of plot lines.
I would have liked to have a little more drama. It seemed that the star ship and its passengers got to their destination too easily.
I enjoyed reading this book.
Saturday, May 2, 2015
Terra Incognita by Ruth Downe
Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: Britannia, AD 118
First Sentence: He had not expected to be afraid.
This novel is the second in Downe's Roman Empire series featuring Roman Army doctor Gaius Petreius Ruso.
Our main character is a medicus for the Roman Army. Tilla is his slave, and his house keeper, and his lover.
They have an interesting relationship.
Ruso is occasionally self important what with being a doctor and a Roman citizen. Tilla is very independent, for a slave. She is not afraid of speaking her mind. Ruso probably would improve their relationship if he actually listened to what she says.
Tilla and Ruso are in northern Britain near Hadrian's wall. Ruso is there to fulfill his military duties. It happens that Tilla has family living near the fort.
There has been a murder at the fort. Someone has killed and decapitated a Roman soldier. The soldier had been a trader in embezzled army supplies. The Romans believe that the murderer is one of the local natives. The natives believe the death was caused by a "stag man" conjured up by a curse that was put on the victim.
Unfortunately, Ruso has been asked to investigate. While he is doing so, Tilla is off reconnecting with her kin. I turns out that the murder is somehow connected with Tilla's family.
Will Ruso and Tilla, working independently, uncover the clues that will solve the crime?"
I enjoyed this book. For me it was an easy read. The author has employed lots of short chapters. There are 92 in all. This makes the book perfect for fitting some reading into a busy schedule.
Setting: Britannia, AD 118
First Sentence: He had not expected to be afraid.
This novel is the second in Downe's Roman Empire series featuring Roman Army doctor Gaius Petreius Ruso.
Our main character is a medicus for the Roman Army. Tilla is his slave, and his house keeper, and his lover.
They have an interesting relationship.
Ruso is occasionally self important what with being a doctor and a Roman citizen. Tilla is very independent, for a slave. She is not afraid of speaking her mind. Ruso probably would improve their relationship if he actually listened to what she says.
Tilla and Ruso are in northern Britain near Hadrian's wall. Ruso is there to fulfill his military duties. It happens that Tilla has family living near the fort.
There has been a murder at the fort. Someone has killed and decapitated a Roman soldier. The soldier had been a trader in embezzled army supplies. The Romans believe that the murderer is one of the local natives. The natives believe the death was caused by a "stag man" conjured up by a curse that was put on the victim.
Unfortunately, Ruso has been asked to investigate. While he is doing so, Tilla is off reconnecting with her kin. I turns out that the murder is somehow connected with Tilla's family.
Will Ruso and Tilla, working independently, uncover the clues that will solve the crime?"
I enjoyed this book. For me it was an easy read. The author has employed lots of short chapters. There are 92 in all. This makes the book perfect for fitting some reading into a busy schedule.
Monday, April 13, 2015
The Sacrilege by John Maddox Roberts
Genre: Historical Mystery
Setting: Rome, 61 B.C.
First sentence: I wonder if we can ever know what truly happened.
This novel is the third in Robert's SPQR historical mystery series.
Newly minted senator Decius Caecilius Metellus has recently returned to Rome. Now he is immersing himself in the social and political intrigues of the capitol city.
Outside the city's walls, Roman general Pompey's legions guard a vast fortune and await their long postponed triumphal entry to the city. Amongst the soldiers and plunder are several Etruscan mystics.
Inside the city, the married woman of Rome celebrated the rites of Bona Dea. Men are expressly prohibited from attending these sacred rites.
Rome is in an uproar when a man is discovered inside the religious assembly.
Decius is asked to investigate the sacrilege. Soon there are several killings connected to the sacrilege.
While investigating, Decius survives several attempts on his life.
Who is trying to kill Decius?
Who has defiled the holy rites?
Are the Etruscan mystics involved?
And how are these questions related?
Along with trying to stay alive, Decius picks up a young smart mouthed slave, and meets the niece of Julius Caesar.
This novel was a fun read. It is written in a nice easy to read style. I really enjoyed it.
Setting: Rome, 61 B.C.
First sentence: I wonder if we can ever know what truly happened.
This novel is the third in Robert's SPQR historical mystery series.
Newly minted senator Decius Caecilius Metellus has recently returned to Rome. Now he is immersing himself in the social and political intrigues of the capitol city.
Outside the city's walls, Roman general Pompey's legions guard a vast fortune and await their long postponed triumphal entry to the city. Amongst the soldiers and plunder are several Etruscan mystics.
Inside the city, the married woman of Rome celebrated the rites of Bona Dea. Men are expressly prohibited from attending these sacred rites.
Rome is in an uproar when a man is discovered inside the religious assembly.
Decius is asked to investigate the sacrilege. Soon there are several killings connected to the sacrilege.
While investigating, Decius survives several attempts on his life.
Who is trying to kill Decius?
Who has defiled the holy rites?
Are the Etruscan mystics involved?
And how are these questions related?
Along with trying to stay alive, Decius picks up a young smart mouthed slave, and meets the niece of Julius Caesar.
This novel was a fun read. It is written in a nice easy to read style. I really enjoyed it.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Holes by Louis Sachar
Genre: Children's Literature
Setting: Camp Green Lake, a juvenile Detention Facility in Texas.
First Sentence: There is no lake at Camp Green Lake.
When Holes was published it won many awards for excellence in children's literature including the Newbery Award. A motion picture of the same name was made based on this novel.
Stanley Yelnats and his family are cursed. It's all the fault of Stanley's great-great-grandfather. So, when Stanley is at the wrong place at the wrong time, he is arrested and convicted for stealing the shoes of a famous baseball player.
Stanley is sent to Camp Green Lake. There is to lake there. And very little green. But there is plenty of dirt.
Each day every camper digs a hole that is five feet wide and five feet deep. the Warden says that digging holes builds character.
Exactly why the boys are digging holes is a mystery that the author slowly reveals to us. The solution includes a dry lake, canned peaches, smelly feet, onions, a kissing bandit, and a love story.
The beauty of this novel is how the author reveals seemingly unrelated details to weave a complex plot. Eventually, each piece of the puzzle fits together. In the end, we have a complete narrative with all of the plot lines resolved, and with no loose ends.
In my opinion, it does no matter weather you read the book first or see the movie first. You will find that there are very few differences between them.
I think that this novel is one of the best I have ever read.
Setting: Camp Green Lake, a juvenile Detention Facility in Texas.
First Sentence: There is no lake at Camp Green Lake.
When Holes was published it won many awards for excellence in children's literature including the Newbery Award. A motion picture of the same name was made based on this novel.
Stanley Yelnats and his family are cursed. It's all the fault of Stanley's great-great-grandfather. So, when Stanley is at the wrong place at the wrong time, he is arrested and convicted for stealing the shoes of a famous baseball player.
Stanley is sent to Camp Green Lake. There is to lake there. And very little green. But there is plenty of dirt.
Each day every camper digs a hole that is five feet wide and five feet deep. the Warden says that digging holes builds character.
Exactly why the boys are digging holes is a mystery that the author slowly reveals to us. The solution includes a dry lake, canned peaches, smelly feet, onions, a kissing bandit, and a love story.
The beauty of this novel is how the author reveals seemingly unrelated details to weave a complex plot. Eventually, each piece of the puzzle fits together. In the end, we have a complete narrative with all of the plot lines resolved, and with no loose ends.
In my opinion, it does no matter weather you read the book first or see the movie first. You will find that there are very few differences between them.
I think that this novel is one of the best I have ever read.
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