Recently I stumbled across a series that was evidently based on the Robin Hood legend. Though not my usual genre, I found myself intrigued enough to c Recently I stumbled across a series that was evidently based on the Robin Hood legend. Though not my usual genre, I found myself intrigued enough to consider adding it to my TBR list. But then I thought maybe it would be a good idea to read some of the older stories about the legendary folk hero- which other than a Disney-like story I read as a child; I had never done- to my knowledge. I have seen a few movies- but I wanted to read what I thought might be some of the 'original' tales and not the Hollywood version of them- which led me to this book. This compilation of stories set the tone for Robin Hood going forward- though, the tales of Robin Hood had been around long before Pyle put his stamp on them.
This collection of stories was written by Howard Pyle back in 1883. He adapted the older Robin Hood ballads, changed a few things up, including Robin’s original villainous reputation –making him into a hero who robbed the rich to feed the poor.
The book starts off with the story about how Robin Hood became something of an outlaw and wound-up living in Sherwood Forest. From there we are introduced to his Merry men and off we go on a variety of often hilarious adventures, and a few nailbiters, too- meeting an eclectic group of people- some who become allies and some who remain staunch enemies.
I never would have thought I’d find Robin Hood stories this enjoyable- but I admit I had a good time reading this book, which was nothing at all like I thought it would be- and doing a little research about the origins of the folklore hero. The language in this book, as I learned, was made up of a fake medieval dialect and it was hard to follow on occasion, as a result. It was also unintentionally funny sometimes because words today mean something entirely different from when this book was published.
All the same, I have a renewed respect for the Robin Hood legend. This was a fun exercise and was certainly a much-needed change of pace. I feel much better equipped now to pursue more stories or pastiches built around the legend of Robin Hood! Who knows, maybe I’ll even tackle Ivanhoe someday.
The Solitude of Wolverines by Alice Henderson is a William Morrow publication.
White-knuckle suspense!
After Alex experiences an unsettling act of vioThe Solitude of Wolverines by Alice Henderson is a William Morrow publication.
White-knuckle suspense!
After Alex experiences an unsettling act of violence, she is offered an opportunity to study Wolverines at a wildlife sanctuary in Montana. This is just the break Alex needs, and without even thinking it over properly she jumps at the chance.
Upon arrival, at the spooky camping location, Alex gets the distinct impression she is not wanted there. Determined to proceed with her mission, Alex’s cameras pick up the Wolverines and something quite unexpected- a badly injured man.
Her reports to authorities are mostly dismissed, but the danger to Alex is most assuredly real…
I love a good environmental thriller- though I haven’t stumbled across one in a while- until now, that is. There is something about humans versus nature, about wildlife and isolated locations that creates a stronger level of suspense.
There was a lot going on in this novel- the landscape, the dangerous weather, the awe of tracking the wolverines, the greed of human nature, an unsettling backstory, as well as a very puzzling mystery.
I was hooked right from the get-go and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough! This new series has a gotten off a fabulous start and I’m very excited about tagging along with Alex Carter on her next big adventure!...more
Into the Fire by Gregg Horwitz is a 2020 Minotaur publication.
Supercharged, "Smoaking" hot, action and adventure!
Evan Smoak- aka- Orphan X- aka- TheInto the Fire by Gregg Horwitz is a 2020 Minotaur publication.
Supercharged, "Smoaking" hot, action and adventure!
Evan Smoak- aka- Orphan X- aka- The Nowhere Man, has come to a crossroads of sorts. He’s ready to explore life on his own terms now. But will his enemies and those who need his specialized help allow him to retire?
In this fifth installment of the series, Evan is summoned to help Max Merriweather, who is on the run from the ruthless assassins who just murdered his cousin.
Hoping this is the last time he answers the 1-800-NOWHERE hotline, Evan discovers this case is going to be one of his most difficult to contain.
I love this series more with each installment. Evan is a machine- tough, smart, unstoppable! But, beneath that exterior is a lonely man, one who was robbed of normalcy, who pines for a break from all the danger and violence.
Readers root for him on both fronts. We cheer for him as he fights the bad guys, but also sympathize with his sensitive side too- wishing he didn’t have to necessarily choose between the two.
The addition of Joey to the series is simply perfect, and the banter between she and Evan is often hysterically funny.
This chapter has a finality to it that is bittersweet- until…
The conclusion is a breathtaking stunner… promising more exciting adventures for our hero in the future.
Quicksand by Gigi Pandian is a 2015 Henery Press publication.
Fast-paced mystery and adventure!
This is the third book in the Jaya Jones Mystery serieQuicksand by Gigi Pandian is a 2015 Henery Press publication.
Fast-paced mystery and adventure!
This is the third book in the Jaya Jones Mystery series, and I must say, so far, the series gets better with each installment.
In this chapter, Jaya, a history professor, is just beginning a new semester when she receives an invitation to visit her former lover, Lane Peters, in Paris. It’s an offer she can't refuse.
However, upon arrival in France, she finds herself swept up in an intriguing adventure, packed with fascinating history, and suspense.
This is a wonderful, clean, cozy series, but it is quite unlike most of the books that meet the criteria for this mystery sub-genre. Many have likened this book to an Indiana Jones style caper, and I’d have to say that is a very apt description.
The location and historical details provided are amazing and very descriptive. The characters are fun, zany and well drawn, and there is just the right amount of romantic tension to round the story out and keep the reader invested enough to tune in for the next episode.
This story grabbed my attention from the first chapter on. I didn’t want to put it down, but also didn’t want it to end. That should just about sum it up for any book lover.
The River by Peter Heller is a 2019 Knopf Publishing Group publication.
An intense adventure between man and nature amidst a battle between good and eThe River by Peter Heller is a 2019 Knopf Publishing Group publication.
An intense adventure between man and nature amidst a battle between good and evil…
Two close friends, Wynn and Jack, one from Vermont and the other from Colorado, each with different temperaments, decide to canoe the Maskwa River in northern Canada. They have dreams of taking it slow and easy, kicking back and enjoying nature at its finest.
However, a wildfire changes the tone of their trip, adding a sense of unease that intensifies when, after hearing a couple arguing, they attempt to warn them of the fire, but can’t seem to locate them in the fog. The next day they encounter a man paddling alone on the river, who claims his wife has gone missing.
From there Wynn and Jack find themselves in a taut, dangerous situation as they search for the missing woman, while the wildfire builds to a crescendo.
Wow! Talk about white knuckle suspense! This book is less than three hundred pages long, but sometimes the best things come in small packages.
The story is packed with exceptional and stunning scenery one can truly envision, and the characterizations are just incredible. I understood fully the different personalities Wynn and Jack possessed, how they each had definite and strong opinions about how to approach their unexpected dilemma. The precision timing carries the story from a relaxed excursion to a nightmarish race against time with exceptional pacing that kept me on the edge of seat.
I would agree the story could and should be labeled as a thriller, but it’s much more than that. So much happens in such a short span of time, it isn’t until the final chapter that one has the chance to really stop an reflect on all events leading up to that moment, and how quickly one’s life can drastically change.
The deep emotional impact remains long after the final page is turned. This thought- provoking story was released in 2019 and the message was clear and profound enough at that time. Everyday life poses at least some risk and can turn on a dime, as we have witnessed in the past few weeks, making an already disquieting story about coping with random, unforeseen events feel even more timely than usual.
Hellbent by Gregg Hurwitz is a 2018 Minotaur publication.
1-855-2-NOWHERE
This special number will connect you to The Nowhere Man- a man who helps thosHellbent by Gregg Hurwitz is a 2018 Minotaur publication.
1-855-2-NOWHERE
This special number will connect you to The Nowhere Man- a man who helps those who require specialized assistance and have no other recourse.
However, the Nowhere Man also happens to be Orphan X- aka- Evan Smoak. At age twelve, Evan was plucked from the foster care system by Jack Jones and trained to be a government assassin. But Jack is the only person in the world who ever showed Evan the slightest bit of humanity, who loved Evan like he was his own son. Now, it is Jack who is calling The Nowhere Man…
When Jack calls Evan he is in a dire situation. He orders Evan to collect a package- which turns out to be far more than Evan bargained for- a sixteen -year old girl named Joey.
Going after his arch enemy, Van Scriver, with razor sharp focus and the intense need for retribution, Evan finds Joey both a help and a hindrance, someone who pricks his stoic heart, bringing out feelings he has no name for, but who is also a liability in his plans to take out Van Scriver. If this weren’t enough suspense to keep one on edge, Evan also gets a call from a father who is afraid of losing his son to the romanticized lure of gang membership.
I have been dying to get back to this series. The second installment was very creative and entertaining, but, this third chapter in the series, settles in with some very poignant and tender moments and passages, amid some very intense action scenes and white- knuckle suspense.
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There is a lot going on here, so beware starting this one if have things you need to get done. The chapters are short, which only compounded the problem, because it was just too tempting to read ‘just one more chapter’.
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This is only the third book in the series, but I can see the advance planning, which is working out beautifully. The series has had some wobbly moments here and there, but I see it improving, getting stronger, with smarter, polished, and more complex plots. I can’t wait to unlock more Orphan X secrets, as the stakes are getting higher and higher, and maybe I’m looking forward to indulging my little crush on Evan Smoak!! [image]
This is an outstanding addition to the series- Can’t wait to read book four!!...more
The Cuban Affair by Nelson DeMille is a 2017 Simon & Schuster publication.
Fast paced adventure and international intrigue-
Daniel MacCormick, formerlyThe Cuban Affair by Nelson DeMille is a 2017 Simon & Schuster publication.
Fast paced adventure and international intrigue-
Daniel MacCormick, formerly of Maine, is a military veteran, now residing in Key West, and is the proud part owner, along with the bank, of a boat he has cleverly dubbed ‘The Maine’. When he is approached about a possible job, he knows immediately this is not an ordinary client out for a fishing expedition or romantic cruise.
Sure enough, Daniel is offered the chance to hit pay dirt, with a multi-million -dollar payday attached. Naturally, there is a catch- a big one.
Daniel will have to take his clients into Cuba in search of a huge stash of cash. His partner in crime is the beautiful Sara Ortega, whose grandfather hid the cash they are out to retrieve, now that there has been a ‘Cuban Thaw’.
Thus, begins the harrowing, but life altering adventure that will end up meaning a lot more than the promise of instant wealth.
I’ve read several DeMille novels over the years, but this one has a slightly different tone to it, but still employs some of the DeMille’s trademark themes. Daniel is a character I was slow to warm up to. I wasn’t quite sure how to take him at first, as he seemed immature one minute and an old soul the next. But, I eventually caught on and soon began to appreciate his internal dialogue, which was often sarcastic, witty and funny and kept the mood from becoming too somber or heavy.
The story takes on a very serious tone, however, once the setup is complete, but I liked the noble cause behind the adventure, which made the mission seem more important and more suspenseful. The story paints a very complex and complicated and eye opening view of Cuba, which is not altogether flattering. Sara and Daniel are constantly tip toeing around potential land mines, as they are monitored very carefully, while they also find themselves coping with the unexpected feelings developing between them.
The story is filled with international intrigue, and adventure, pulling off a caper or heist-like tone, which kept the pace moving along at a brisk pace, and kept me engaged in the story from start to finish.
Overall, this is a quick, suspenseful, and entertaining read. I think I’d enjoy hearing from Daniel MacCormick again someday.
River Wild by Denis O’Neill is a 2017 Skyhorse publication.
Normally we have movies or television programs based on books. This book, though, is basedRiver Wild by Denis O’Neill is a 2017 Skyhorse publication.
Normally we have movies or television programs based on books. This book, though, is based on a movie. I was intrigued when it the book was first published, but for some reason, though it was a short book, it languished in my TBR pile.
So, now that it has reached my five-year cutoff date, I had to either read it or scratch it off the list. Because it is so short, (less than 300 pages), I figured I could knock this one out in one afternoon, especially since I was familiar with the story.
As it turns out, despite it having been years and years since I’ve seen the movie, details of the movie came back easily, and I found the book did not stray very far off course.
There were some nice descriptions and explanations that are more effective, and stimulates one’s own imagination away from the theatrical visuals. Therefore, if you haven’t seen the movie, you might consider reading the book before you do.
Otherwise, the book was so close to the movie, it was mainly a refresher course, for me.
Some minor differences here- Tom, for example, though not really an outdoorsy type, is a huge baseball fan, and a lot more palatable here than he was in the movie.
The author did a good job with the transition from movie to book, and still managed to create an intense, suspenseful adventure, even if you knew how it would all play out.
Overall, even though the movie has some mixed reviews, I liked it back in the day, and I enjoyed the book, as well.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll –
I just finished a plain Kindle version of this book, mainly to refresh my memory of this book. As aAlice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll –
I just finished a plain Kindle version of this book, mainly to refresh my memory of this book. As a child, for some inexplicable reason, this book just didn’t interest me, nor did any of the film versions. I was a totally into Winnie the Pooh, and all the traditional fairy tales, and loved reading my mother’s Bobbsey Twins books. Maybe because I didn’t latch onto this book as a child, I never presented it to my own children with any great enthusiasm. I suppose we read the book together at some point, and I’m quite sure we saw the animated movie version a few times. However, my son certainly did not have any interest in the book and my daughter was into very modern stories.
So, long story short, I barely remember what all the fuss was about when it comes to Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. As I prepare to read a historical fiction novel surrounding Lewis Carroll, I thought it might be helpful to read this book beforehand.
Sometimes, I wonder if some of the books that were read to us as children were truly meant for children. After reading this book as an adult, I can see why the book garnered so much praise, and can also see why it’s analyzed to death. But, sometimes a cigar is just a cigar, and I think that while there were some puzzles and riddles here that only the brightest of children could decipher, the book was a fantasy tale, whimsical and delightful, but as is often the case, a little bittersweet and poignant.
Sometimes it does a person good read books touted as children’s novels, even when we’ve long outgrown such things, long after our own children have grown and are now preparing to read to their own children. I whiled away a little time, immersing myself in a classic story that I find more appealing now, than I ever did as a child.
I glanced through some analysis of the book, and see there are many theories about alleged allegory, and the enigma that is Lewis Carrol. I could only agree, grudgingly, with one or two theories and drug experimentation is not convincing to me at all, which was a common belief among those of my generation. Still, others seemed just as far fetched, so I suppose, like any other book, it’s up to you on how you wish to interpret this book.
Loving Deep by Tracey Devlyn is a 2016 Kicksass publication.
A compelling contemporary romance that gives a nod to wildlife convervation with little ‘p Loving Deep by Tracey Devlyn is a 2016 Kicksass publication.
A compelling contemporary romance that gives a nod to wildlife convervation with little ‘paying it forward’ thrown in for good measure.
When Randi’s mother, Barbara, dies, she learns that Britt Steele would have first right of refusal if Randi chose to sell the land she inherited. However, Barbara did not cross all the I’s or dot all the T’s, so Randi, who desperately needs the money to keep her business afloat, can sell the land to the highest bidder, and as it so happens there are a few people very interested in acquiring this prime piece of land…. Trophy hunters.
Britt and Barbara came to their agreement to save the red wolf pack on the land, to help keep them from becoming extinct. Once Randi learns the reason why Britt wants the land, the two begin some pretty tough negotiations, which sparkles and crackles with hot, but turbulent chemistry.
I enjoyed this book for many reasons. I love the idea of preserving wildlife, and applaud anyone who dedicates their time and energy to such a worthy effort. I also abhor trophy hunting, so the bad guys in this book, helped draw attention to such a boastful waste, and paints such activity in the light in which it should be shown.
Naturally, there is some conflict between Britt and Randi. Both characters had parental issues, but Britt was more flawed, I think, and he had problems with trust, but he does grovel nicely.
Overall, I was proud of Randi for standing up for herself, for forgiving Britt, and I enjoyed watching Britt stand up and show Randi what he was made of, and seeing him finally get the chance to do something for himself now with the help of his grateful siblings and Randi. There is also a gentle message that reminds us to make time for things we want to do, need to do, or should do, because life can change on a dime. Good advice!
Overall, this is a solid contemporary romance with just the right amount of angst, and steamy romance as well as having an adventurous quality to it that was different and a nice change of pace. 4 stars ...more
The Last One by Alexandra Olivia is a 2016 Ballantine publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for aThe Last One by Alexandra Olivia is a 2016 Ballantine publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really don’t remember requesting this book from Netgalley, but apparently I did. I don’t know what made me think this was a book I wanted to read, because one of the main threads is based on reality television, something I really don’t like or enjoy, and the other thread puts the book firmly into a popular genre, or theme, I don’t care for all that much and will be happy to see the back of, hopefully sooner, rather than later.
I have no idea what I was thinking when I requested it, but I have noticed many of my Goodreads friends are reading this one, so I bumped it up a few slots on the old TBR pile to see what all the fuss was about.
To be honest, I thought the story could be a scathing parody, even satirical, because I found myself simultaneously rolling my eyes at the contestants or laughing at how the author portrayed them, which is exactly the way they appear of these silly shows. But, as the story progresses, it becomes quite apparent something far more sinister has occurred and our girl, ‘Zoo’, is not aware of it, continuing on with her quest to win a million dollars.
If I could hand out an ‘A’ for effort, then this book would deserve one because of its originality, creativity, imagination, and experimentation. On one hand it works as an interesting character study, but in other ways it’s too vague, rushed, and the characters are not developed enough to evoke an emotional connection to them. While the set-up is simple or basic, it’s still, perhaps, a wee bit too ambitious, needing something I can’t quite put my finger on.
Despite the sub-genre and themes that I am not overly fond of, I’m still glad I gave the book a try. If nothing else, it was a change of pace for me, and gave my brain a different type of workout for a change.
The River at Night by Erica Ferencik is a 2017 Gallery/Scout publication.
This book is nothing like I had imagined it would be like. I didn’t have anyThe River at Night by Erica Ferencik is a 2017 Gallery/Scout publication.
This book is nothing like I had imagined it would be like. I didn’t have any preset ideas, per se, but was surprised by the direction the story took the further along it went.
I loathe comparisons of any kind to other authors, books, movies, or television premises, but, I have to say, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the movie “Deliverance”, while I was reading this book, and I’m pretty sure other people have probably made that connection as well.
The difference here is that we have a group of friends, all ladies, with varying careers and personal lives deciding to go along on a river rafting adventure together. Naturally, things do not go as planned and the ladies wind up fighting for their lives.
Since the story is told from Wini’s first person POV, I got a deeper glimpse into her life and inner thoughts, but, I didn’t feel as though the other characters were fleshed out enough to form a real connection to them. If anything, they got on my nerves, more often than not, which muted my sympathy towards them. They were often catty and petty or immature or shallow, which took some of the edge off the suspense, as well, since I wasn’t emotionally attached to anyone other than Wini.
However, the action makes up for what was lacking in character depth. The story was a little slow moving in the first couple chapters, but once it got rolling it never let up. While the plot was somewhat predictable, there were a few surprises along the way. I did like the way things turned out for Wini, who found a new purpose after her harrowing experience, and is, despite the big losses and disappointments she has suffered in life, ready to look on the bright side, instead of dwelling on the negative, but I did wish there had been a more upbeat tone for the other characters, who were initially confident and free spirited, but are now left struggling with some pretty heavy emotions or with enormous challenges. However, the friendship bond is something positive to hold onto.
Overall, this is a tense and disturbing novel, which, although it needed a little more depth, serves quite well as an adventure thriller. It held my attention and gave me a few chills and thrills along the way, making me squirm a time or two. So, the book is effective and certainly kept me turning those pages, which is probably the most you could ask for from this type of book. I’m a little conflicted about how to rate this one, so as always, when I can’t decide to go up or down, I stay in the middle of the road-
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