Saturday, December 27, 2008

Historical Fiction

I just finished reading Duchess by Susan Holloway Scott. A fabulous read about Sarah Jennings Churchill. Yes, she was related to Sir Winston Churchill and Princess Diana. In a world where women were expected to trade on their sexuality in order to get ahead, she refused and instead, made her own way. Married to John Churchill, one of the premier war strategist of that time, between the two of them they faced much hardship and seemingly unending intrigues. Sarah became great friends with Princess Anne, who went on to become Queen Anne, and towards the end, was thrown to the wayside by her great friend. Richness of historical fact and a wonderful story line kept me hooked from page one. I am looking forward to her next book I have Royal Harlot: A Novel of the Countess Castlemaine and King Charles II.

I am currently reading Consequences by Penelope Lively. Sublime is the word when describing this novel. With minimal words, Lively is capable of expressing so much, telling an in depth story with out going into great detail. This story is about three generations of women and how the past is never very far behind.

Monday, December 15, 2008

The 2008 closure post

I stated my blog beginning of this year and oh my, how time has flown. What started out to be a blog strictly about books and my thoughts on them, has become a venue for my thoughts on books as well as how I perceive some of the things that have gone in the world. Along the way, I have mourned a loss, lost 2 televisions and vented about July 4th.

Additionally I have lost 2 jobs due to downsizing and now face 2009 with apprehension and yes, hope. What will this new year bring about? We are about to see changes take place in the American government that are unprecedented. I, for one, am looking forward to seeing what our new president will bring about and what legacy he will leave. I am also looking forward to the changes that will happen in my life. For good or bad, they will make me appreciate what I have now, the lessons I will learn along the way and hopefully make me a stronger person. Strength through adversity.

I hope your holidays are filled with joy and blessings. Make memories, be thankful for what you have and ring in the New Year with gusto!

Monday, December 8, 2008

Anobii vs. Shelfari

Initially, I liked Shelfari. But some stuff popped off with some other members and I removed myself. A friend introduced me to Anobii, and I've been hooked ever since. Members of Anobii seem to be a different breed of people altogether. More serious if you will, about what they read. I don't know why this is, but I am thankful for it.

If you like to read, and like discussing what you read, stop by Anobii and sign up. It's free and very entertaining. And while I am back on Shelfari, it doesn't hold the lure as it once did for me.

Additionally, there is Bookweazle. No need to list your books, just another place to discuss them. Stop by and sign up. This too is free.