Bridgey's 75 challenge :)

Hi all, quite new to the site and saw this topic so thought I'd join....

My books I've read so far this year (with a five star rating guide) are:

1) The Sea Wolf - Jack London ***
2) The Violent Enemy - Jack Higgins ****
3) The Shining - Stephen King ****
4) Brought in Dead - Jack Higgins ****
5) Beast - Peter Benchley *****
6) To Catch a King - Jack Higgins *****
7) The Eye of the Red Tsar - Sam Eastland ****
8) A Prayer for the Dying - Jack Higgins *****
9) The Red Coffin - Sam Eastland *****
10) Bear Island - Alistair Maclean **
11) A Game for Heroes - Jack Higgins ****
12) Mister Pip - Lloyd Jones ***
13) Wrath of God - Jack Higgins *****
14) Uncertain paradise 1973 - John W Cassell *****
15) The Thousand Faces of Night - Jack Higgins ****
16) Cell - Stephen King ****
17) Outer Dark - Cormac Mcarthy *****
18) East of Desolation - Jack Higgins *****
19) Uncertain Paradise: 1973: The Latter Days - John W Cassell *****
20) Shark Trouble - Peter Benchley ****
21) Z for Zachariah - Robert C O'Brian **
22) Breakheart Pass - Alistair Maclean ****
23) Sheba - Jack Higgins ***
24) Pirate Latitude - Michael Crighton ****
25) Tarka the Otter - Henry Williamson ****
26) The hour Before Midnight - Jack Higgins *****
27) White Shark - Peter Benchley ****
28) We Die Alone - David Howarth ***
29) The Eyes of the Dragon - Stephen King ***
30) Comes the Dark Stranger - Jack Higgins *****
31) The Girl who Loved Tom Gordon - Stephen King *
32) The Diamond Hunters - Wilbur Smith ****
33) Wrath of the Lion - Jack Higgins ****
34) Hunter's Moon - David Devereux ***
35) The Gunslinger - Stephen King ****½
36) The Road to Samarcand - Patrick O'Brian *
37) The Drawing of the Three - Stephen King ****
38) The Waste Lands - Stephen King *****
39) Pay the Devil - Jack Higgins ***
40) Wizard and Glass - Stephen King ****
41) Death Sentence - Brian Garfield ****
42) The Khufra Run - Jack Higgins ***½
43) The search for the giant squid - Richard Ellis ***
44) Condemned to Devil's Island - Blair Niles **
45) The Rite - Matt Baglio ***
46) The Captain - Seymour Shubin ****
47) Deliverance - James Dickey ***
48) Flight of Eagles - Jack Higgins **** ½
49) The Dark of the Sun - Wilbur Smith **** ½
50) Circus - Alistair Maclean ****
51) Toll for the Brave - Jack Higgins **** ½
52) Corsair - Tim Severin ****
53) Island - Richard Laymon *****
54) Identity: Lost - Pascal Marco ****
55) Wolves of the Calla - Stephen King ****
56) Hell is too Crowded - Jack Higgins ***
57) The Lonely Sea - Alistair Maclean ****½
58) The Testament of Caspar Schultz - Jack Higgins ****
59) Caravan to Vaccares - Alistair Maclean ****
60) Year of the Tiger - Jack Higgins *****
61) Pig Island - Mo Haydner ***
62) The Keys of Hell - Jack Higgins ***
63) The Boys from Brazil - Ira Levin ****
64) Midnight Never Comes - Jack Higgins ***
65) The Swarm - Frank Schätzing ****
66) Dark Side of the Street - Jack Higgins *****
67) No Sanctuary - Richard Laymon ****
68) Smokescreen - Dick Francis ****
69) The Call of the Wild - Jack London *****
70) First Steps in Winemaking - C.J.J. Berry *****
71) Death of Albert Johnson, Mad Trapper of Rat River - F W Anderson ****
72) A Fine Night for Dying - Jack Higgins *****
73) Blood Meridian - Cormac Mccarthy ***
74) The Slender Reed - John W Cassell *****
75) The Last Place God Made - Jack Higgins *****




I will add a quick review for each book at the bottom of the thread, and leave this as just a running total......

Lee

Howdy Bridgey!

How did you like "The Sea Wolf"?
There's a fabulous 1941 movie loosely based on the book. Edgar G. Robinson played the captain.

Great to meet you and Welcome Aboard!

Hey Pam...

It started off really well, but got a lot too romantic for my taste (a bit slushy) :)

Just started Beast by Peter Benchley!!!

Welcome!

Hey drneuton,

Thanks for the welcome.

Just been thinking of other books to read this year. Went on a massive jack Higgins buying spree over xmas so got a pile of his to sift through. Have read all the Sean Dillon and Liam Devlin ones.

Will also have to revisit my favourite book of all time.... wait for it.... Papillon. Read it twice already (actually only the second book i've read more than once, the other being Lord of the rings)

Also gotta get some more cormac mccarthy in, as I read the border trilogy last year....

Thinking of getting some alistair maclean books as well, anyone got any suggestions?

#3,

Well "Beast" isn't likely to suffer from too much romance ;)

Enjoy!

#7

hopefully not. I love Peter Benchley books, started with Jaws and then moved onto the deep and the island.

What do people do on here to update thier lists? Just edit the first entry to keep things simple?

Lee

Everyone does different things (of course. It'd be like herding cats otherwise.)

I do the entries at the top, going so far as to divide them up into groups. Basically because I read a great deal of kidlit.

This 'list' method also works for me since it's easy to copy-and-paste if I want to send the list somewhere.

-----------
edited for grammar, which still needs some work...

Herding cats.... never come across that saying before :)

Welcome Lee, you'll see lots of approaches with lists, just do what works for you - most people keep some sort of list at the top of their thread.

Welcome to the group, Lee!

Thanks for the welcomes!!! Halfway through Beast now and loving it. :)

Personally, I prefer when people add new books to the bottom of their lists since I start reading their posts where I left off and never go back to the top. You could do both - keep a list at the top and put a note at the bottom with words about whether you liked the book or not. We'll be happy with whatever you end up doing, however!

mamzel... that sounds like the best option. I'll keep a rolling list at the top and add a quick review of each book at the bottom, as and when I finish them. :)

Hope there's some Jack Higgins fans out there!!!

Ok.... here goes.... better start the reviews :)

The Sea Wolf - Jack London ***

I saw this book for sale in a charity shop for 10p so decided to buy it after previously reading Whitefang & Call of the wild. To be honest I thought it would be about a wolf (was a hardback without a dust jacket so no blurb).... however I was wrong....

The story starts off well enough with the protagonist introducing himself and background, however his way of life is soon to change when he is involved in an accident and 'rescued' by Wolf Larson (rescued being the a double edged sword) .... The plot rattles along as good as any other seafaring yarn, with sharks and killing aplenty.

However, I have decided to only award the book 3 stars as I feel that far too many pages are given over to philosophical debate, which can stop the reader from becoming too involved with the storyline. Also, once a love interest (Brewster) is introduced I was pretty much fed up of hearing the same old descriptions of how delicate the lady was and how the character was falling more and more for her.... bleurgh!!! Not my cup of tea at all, it sometimes felt I'd fallen into a Bronte novel. For me this just caused to last third of the book to drag, and to be honest, the ending didn't come fast enough, I just found myself reading to get to the end of the book instead of for enjoyment.
....

I normally stay clear of books with love themes and am more of an adventure fan. Just a pity London decided to introduce a woman into the seafaring plot.

An enjoyable novel, but not one I would ever think of revisiting. Try Whitefang instead as an introduction to London....

I hope your next read is a better one for you, Lee!

The Violent Enemy - Jack Higgins ****

Time for another review :)

Ok, I'm a massive Jack Higgins fan and have bought all his back catologue over xmas, so I am gonna read them probably every other book until they are finished (unless I get bored).

The violent enemy, like so many of Higgins books is centered around the IRA. This book was written in the 60's and comes at a point where they were struggling to continue to remain a united front due to money issues. The main character in held in prison (a seemingly very secure placement) but is contacted by old associates and a plan is put in place for him to break out, once out he is expected to repay the favour by completing a 'Job' for an old associate.

As always with Higgins, you can expect a number of people to lose kneecaps etc. The plot rattles along at a good pace with a few unexpected twists at the end.

As an introduction to higgins I would suggest The eagle has landed but although the older novels such as this lack the complexity of later offerings, they are still a great read for action fans.

The only reason I failed to give the book 5 stars is that at just under 200 pages I wanted more and actually finished it in one sitting.

(By the way, if you want to read this book it may also be under the name Harry Patterson)

Interesting picture on your home page....

What can I say.... other than I really wish I was a monkey :)

The Shining - Stephen King ****

As with most people I saw the film for this a number of years ago when I was a kid (probably hidden behind a pillow)

Decided after many years that I would read the book, my first thoughts were that it could never stand up to the film and I kind of expected a mediocre read.....

Boy was I wrong.... for a start there is a lot more going on in the book and King slowly builds up to each creepy moment like a cat starting to pounce. Although the concept of the film and book are the same, I would advise anyone to read the book as it has so much more to offer. The character's past is explained in depth with allows the reader empathise with the situations they find themselves in, and the reasons the hotel affects each one differently.

This is another of those books where the film appears very very inferior.

All that said, I have awarded the book 4 stars, not five.... due mainly to the fact that a number of times I kept wishing that it would fly onto the next chilling bit and not keep delving into the past events. I think that much of the background information was needed, just not maybe in the order the author set it out..... if that makes sense.....

All in all a very enjoyable read and the 500 pages flew by. Very often I am put off reading a book if I have seen the film as I already know the ending.... not this time though.... the ending is quite a lot different, and somehow more final.

One last word before I go... REDRUM!!!!!

Brought in Dead - Jack Higgins ****

Another Jack Higgins offering.... :) I really can't get enough of him. I have never read another author where the pages just seem to disappear before your eyes. Often I sit down, start reading, and before I know it 3 or 4 hours have passed. Magic.

For anyone familiar with Higgins work, this book is the second installment in the Nick Miller series (the first being the graveyard shift).

Nick Miller is CID copper, but unlike his colleagues he has an independent income (much to their jealousy) and therefore only does the job as he feels that he needs to make a change to society. The book is written with a gritty realism of what life in the 60's must have been like, with many local businesses ruled under the threat of drug lords and crime barons. The book finds Nick Miller fishing a body out of a canal and not being able to detach himself from the case. Along the way to ensuring justice is triumphant (Nick Miller style) we come across beatings, Judo, shotguns, knives and drug addicts.... just what you need to cheer up a cold winter night :)

There is a nice military aspect to the book, as expected from the author, and you really get the feeling that Higgins enjoys what he writes, equally as much as we enjoy reading it.

The main thing that I find fascinating with these early novels is that many of the character traits are brought together to form Sean Dillon, Higgins' hero of his past 17 novels. Millers piano skills and martial arts are repeated along with many others created over the past 50 years.

4 stars out of 5, not quite 100% but nearly there..... and easily recommendable

Duma Key is another of King's that slowly builds to a creepy ending. One of my faves of his recent books!

23#

I'll have to have a read of it. Read a few of his last year, The stand and Under the Dome. Enjoyed them both but a bit on the long side :)

Welcome, Lee! You're going great guns. Let's see... I do as you do: keep a list at the beginning of my thread more for myself than anybody else, and post about each book as I read it.
The Shining is my favorite King, I guess. I've read it more times than my reputation as a middle-brow can bear. Something about hotels, though, pulls me in every time.

Beast - Peter Benchley *****

Have read several of Benchleys novels and have never been disappointed... With this in mind I got hold of Beast.

Firstly I'll say that this book has been awarded 5 stars and deserves an extra one as well. The main basis of the book is that man has overfished the seas around Bermuda and upset the balance of nature. A giant squid has therefore come to be found in the seas and boy is it hungry.... It is left to local sailor, Whip Darling to unwillingly oversee it's destruction

For the novel Benchley has created numerous strong willed characters such as a vengeful father, a self important Doctor, a sea loving Fisherman, a proud navy captain and a sea expert looking to fulfill his lifes ambition. This mixture really helps to carry off the larger than life plot, and believe me there are more than enough twists to keep you gasping along (including the ending)....

During the book Benchley even manages to have an inside grin at the success of Jaws and makes a comparison in public reaction to a film and the 'real life' depicted in the novel.

The chapters written from the Beasts point of view are amazing and really add so much to the atmosphere that Benchley seems to so easily create.

Rarely do I come across an author that has such a depth of knowledge of his subject matter. The book, as with most of his others, is filled with an encyclopedia of facts and figures of marine life. You can really tell how much he cares for the sea and his passion is infectious.

If you are not familiar with Benchley, put him on your 'to do' list for this year. And if your looking for somewhere to start, Beast is a great place.

To Catch a King - Jack Higgins *****

Anyone familiar with Jack Higgins will be aware of his best selling book The Eagle has Landed. In my opinion this book more than equals it.

The scene is set in the second world war with the german army poised to invade Britain. The Duke & Duchess of Windsor are in Lisbon. The British are desperate to send them off to the Bahamas (out of sight, out of mind) and the Germans are convinced that they would jump at the chance to defect to them, whereby they would place the Duke on the throne after the invasion. A plan by the Germans is put in place in order to ensure the Duke sees things their way, and if not, then a kidnapping is in order.....

Walter Schellenberg is put in charge of the case but doesn't really see things the way Himmler would like, and proves to be an almost anti hero. As usual, Higgins has created various characters to help the script flow nicely along with the pages flying by.

Expect killing, torturing, double agents, & beautiful girls mixed with real life events. As in the style of many of his works there is a prologue and epilogue that tidys up events in only the way Higgins can.

An excellent read and another book to add to my collection of favourites :)

The Eye of the Red Tsar - Sam Eastland ****

I bought this book after winning it's sequel for review on Librarything (The Red Coffin) I wanted to read them in order so stared with this first.

The book is set around the Romanov Tsar family and a fictional account ofwhat happened to them before and immediately after their demise. Inspector Pekkala was a man selected by the Tsar for his excellent memory and keen eye for detail. No one in the country is able to escape his scrutiny, not even his employer.

I won't go into the plot as I feel that this will ruin much of the novels suspense. All I will say is that Pekkala is almost like a cross between Sherlock Holmes and James Bond.

The book flew along nicely with nice short chapters that alternated between Pakkala's past and present which interlinked with each other that allows the reader to uncover different aspects of the plot as his investigation progresses. There are quite a number of twists and turns (and a few plot holes) with a rather unexpected ending.

At the back of the book the author provides a detailed account of established facts regarding the real death of the Tsar.

The reason I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5 is that I felt that the whole novel hinges on the fact that Pekkala is feared by all walks of life for deeds completed whilst in the Tsars employment, but there is very little evidence of this placed in front of the reader.

If anyone is interested Sam Eastland is a pseudonym used by Paul Watkins.

A Prayer for the Dying - Jack Higgins *****

First of all you have to ask yourself what you would like from an action book? Whatever you decide, I'm fairly confident you can find in A Prayer for the Dying.

The book starts off with the main character (Martin Fallon) trying to escape the country to make a new start in Australia. We discover that he was IRA but left the cause after a mistimed bomb killed a number of schoolchildren. This results him becoming a wanted man by everyone, including his previous employers....

He has been promised a new passport and spending cash to help him on his way, but when Fallon turns up to collect he is told the only way to get what he wants is complete one last execution. Reluctantly he agrees.....

What follows is a page turning ride that involves all of Higgins trademarks. We are introduced to commando priests, thugs, grudge holding detectives and, of course, shooting and kneecappings galore. Higgins has always been a master of creating great villains, but even he has surpassed himself with the extra creepy Meehan Brothers.

Fallon is a methodical killer, with every aspect of the kill worked out so nothing is left to chance. However, there is an unexpected twist to the plot when there is a witness to his kill. He is soon forced to re-examine his life and where his loyaltys are placed.. with devastating results.

This book has to be the ultimate introduction to Higgins, with its mixture of politics, religion and death it really doesn't let up the pace.

The Red Coffin - Sam Eastland *****

This book was my first one received from the early reviewers giveaway on Librarything :)

This novel is a continuation of the Inspector Pekkala series which was introduced to us via The Eye of the Red Tsar. As with it's prequel, the book is split up into alternating chapters of the main characters past recollections and present day circumstances.

I felt that this book helped to explain a lot more of the characters history and his relationship with the Tsar family (a contributing factor to how he percieves his modern day world and the morals he upholds)

Ten or so years has passed since we last met Pekkala and he is now working for Stalin in the same capacity as his previous role to the Tsar. Stalin feels that there has been a security leak on the major project that will help Russia stand against Germany when the inevitable war comes to the borders. Pekkala is sent to investigate the man in charge and bring him in for questioning. Believing he is innocent , Pekkala allows him to return to his military site. Unfortunately he then turns up dead, apparently an accident.... but the investigation takes a more sinister turn when a bullet is found lodged in the corpse.

What follows is a pageturning, plot twisting stormer of a novel that I found hard to put down. This entailed boobytraps, assassins and the cold reality of Stalins regime.

What I most love about the series is the way that humour is mixed with despair no matter what the situation, whether we are being informed of the Gualag deaths or the torture of some poor sould by the secret service.

It helps to have read the first in the series before this one, but not strictly neccessary as all important parts are reiterated (if anything it will spoil the first book as the ending it given away as part of this plot)

All in all a really enjoyable book, and I am told to expect a 3rd in the series.... one I will definately look out for!!!

I do not think I have read anything by Jack Higgins. I will have to correct that oversight!

I started with the Eagle has Landed and never looked back.... Eye of the storm is also a great place :)

Bear Island - Alistair MacLean **

Only the second book I've read by the Author, the other being The way to dusty death, which I really enjoyed.

This book follows the exploits of a film crew on the way to Bear island, a remote small island in the artic circle. Written in the first person through the eyes of a Dr Marlowe we are informed of his attempts to discover a killer amongst them as people start to turn up dead.... There are a number of unexpected twists and it is interesting to see how the character views everyone with suspicion as he weighs up the possible motives.

I was really looking forward to getting stuck into this as the plot sets the scene for what could have been a really tense thriller, unfortunately I just couldn't get into the book in the way I'd hoped.

There is not one character that is remotely likable and this, coupled with lengthy (and often boring) dialogues made the novel just seem to drag and drag.....

I'm not sure if it was just very dated and has not stood the test of time well, but I couldn't wait for it to be over.

Is hasn't put me off reading further novels by Maclean, but maybe just lowered my expectations.

A Game for Heroes - Jack Higgins ****

A bit of a strange offering here from Higgins, it is written in the first person which is a style of his that I have not come across before.

The basic plot is that Owen Morgan, retired through injury, is requested by the Prime Minister to lead a dangerous mission to find out more about the 'Nigger' project which is being undertaken on a ficticious Channel island.

Owen Morgan was born and bred on the island which makes him the ideal choice for the task. However, he has personal demons that need to be conquered, including a lost love and a deceased father.

Higgins shows in this novel the forgotten side of war in the channel islands, also the friendship that can be found by enemies when facing a difficult situation together.

As usual there is plenty of action all the way through including lynchings and shootings galore.

Another Higgins classic, although not up there with his best, still a good read.

#33: I went through a stage in my late teens when I think I read every MacLean book he had written up to that time. I wonder how they would stand the test of time. . .

#35 I'm going through the same stage with jack Higgins..... hope they will still be as good in 50 years time.

Gonna read circus as my next Maclean book

I still have not read any Higgins. I am definitely going to have to give his books a try.

Mister Pip - Lloyd Jones ***

Didn't really know what to make of this book...... I definately don't feel that it deserves all the awards and accolades that I have read in other reviews and the press. Like so many so called 'great' novels, not a lot really happens and I often found myself checking how many pages were left until the end.

The plot is quite simple, an island in the pacific is in the grip of a civil war. The only white man in the near vicinity decides to help the children by becoming their teacher. He seemingly only has one book that he reads to them a chapter at a time. The book is Great Expectations.

The book is written through the eyes of the main character, who through her reading of the book makes several comparrisons to her own life and leans upon the storyline for moral support and guidance.

There are many sub plots throughout the 200+ pages, many of them to do with class and race, but I never felt that any of them were explored enough and often, when introduced just took away my attention from the already thin storyline.

To be honest, if I had to sum up the book I would say that it was easy to read and contained some fairly interesting points. But I would mostly say that all the hype is just a case of the emporers clothes.

I have given the book 3 stars instead of two as I really liked the way certain characters met their end - very unexpected.

Wrath of God - Jack Higgins *****

Another early Higgins offering, originally published under the name James Graham.

What do you get if you take a bank robbing priest, a gun running businessman and an ex IRA hitman and set them in 1920's Mexico?

The answer is a thrilling novel that makes the pages fly by at an alarming rate.

The 3 characters are introduced early on in the novel and are forced to work together to kill a very dangerous man in exchange for their freedom. The novel details their adventures along the way and allows the reader to experience the full terror of post revolution mexico.

Expect many an individual to meet a sticky end in the usual way.

Again this book is written in the first person which really allows you to feel the tension build and when it's released you race along the page for the next action installment.

Whenever I read a Higgins novel I feel as if I have just sat through an amazing action packed film at the cinema, complete with surround sound and 3D. I try not to start one until the weekend as I usually finish it in one day, they really are that unputdownable.

>38 Bridgey: I'm sorry you didn't like Mister Pip as much as some of us did. I gave it 4 stars when I read it last year.

#38: I also liked Mister Pip more than you did, Lee. Just goes to show that not every book is for every body. I am glad your next read was better for you!

Each to their own, I think - I haven't yet read Mister Pip but read his Hand Me Down World recently and enjoyed that. And you definitely like Sam Eastland's work more than I do.

I don't know why I didn't like it really... felt the same about Life of Pi, just doesn't seem to be enough happening... having said that, I love the Remains of the Day and even less happens in that :)

As for Sam Eastland I really enjoyed the two books he has so far, I understand that he has been commisioned to write 5 books in total so looking forward to the next 3...

Am now reading Uncertain Paradise 1973 by John w Cassell (another librarything giveaway) and really enjoying it.

I suppose a lot can depend on your mood at the time.... The good thing is that it introduces me to other authors, and if I enjoy I usually work my way through their back catologue.

Uncertain Paradise: 1973 - John W Cassell *****

I received this book as a giveaway from here.... :)

The first thing to say about this book is that I had it for a while and just didn't get around to reading it. The blurb on the back just made no sense whatsoever and gave very little away regarding the actual content of the book.

But, as the old saying goes, never judge a book by it's cover. And this novel is no exception.

The book basically is a fictional account of the authors life. John Cassell is on the move, looking for a secluded hideaway where he can live his life in relative obscurity. The answer seems to come in the shape of Maggierock, an island on the verge of independence from british control.

However, life is far from simple as the author finds himself involved in kidnappings, terrorist activities, guerilla groups, political wranglings and potential death at every turn.

The novel is 5th in a series, and to be honest I hadn't read any of the others before picking this up and unlike some series books this one is easily able to stand alone.

If your a fan of action novels with more than a fair dosage of gritty realism, then do yourself a favour and introduce yourself to the world of John W Cassell.

Oh, and the authors introduction is possibly the most humble I have had the pleasure to come across. Here is a man that really does not recognise his own talents.

Thousand faces of Night - Jack Higgins ****

Typical Higgins type of novel, not up there with his best but still a good read.

If you are used to the Jack Higgins that gives blood and gore aplenty you may be slightly disappointed.

Hugh Marlowe is fresh out of prison and already his past is catching with him. He has hidden the spoils of his last job and his old collegues want their share.

He is forced to leave the area and comes across a struggling fruit farmer and his daughter who are being forced out of business by a local crook. Deciding to stay and help them he risks his freedom and identity.

As usual with Higgins the story unfolds with many an unexpected twist.

Cell - Stephen King ****

This book is almost a 'Stand' for the digital age. Someone (it is never confirmed who) has found a way to use a cell phone to wipe peoples minds. The only survivors appear to be the young, old and the technically inept.

The affected people walk around like zombies and wouldn't look out of place in dawn of the dead.

Cell is a typical King story, with good 'v' bad, and his usual entourage of socially inept characers trek across the landscape fighting for survival.

As with most King books, I really enjoyed it and the pages seemed to fly by. Unfortunately the end was just too.... I don't know... convenient. It was almost as if King wanted it to be over, and the last 50 pages appeared rushed. I won't say too much about it as this would ruin the ending for people.

All in all a good read that was enjoyable.... can't wait for the film to come out.

Your reviews make me want to read all of the books -- even the ones that were only so-so. I will have to check out Jack Higgins. I think I would like his books.
--BJ

Outer Dark - Cormac Mcarthy *****

Where do I start?....

This is Cormacs second novel and starts as dark as it continues. A brother and sister father a child. The brother tells her the child has died, but actually leaves it to perish in the forest. The lie is found out and the sister goes in search of the childs whereabouts. In turn the brother follows to find the sister....

Along each siblings journey they encounter various characters and ways of life.

As with all of mcarthys works don't expect anyone to have a good time or be particularly joyous. His usual desolate descriptive prose cuts right through to the bone. A little hard to follow at times, but it is always worth the effort.

Cormac Mcarthy is an amazing writer and one that I can see being studied for generations to come

Wow, that book description sounds super interesting but in a very dark and morbid way. I think I've seen this discussion on someone else's thread, but does he write about anything light??? Will definitely be looking for this one!

I've read 7 of his books and definately not found anything light. They are really rewarding reads, but don't expect much in the way of punctuation though.

My advice would be to only read when sober, or you may reach for those razorblades...

All joking aside they are brilliant novels, and I would recommend starting with the road or no country for old men.

The only book of his that I've read is The Road and despite the doom and gloom subject matter, I found it really beautiful. His writing is great and his concepts of human nature are fascinating. But again I wonder why he writes such dark material. I added that book to my TBR list again, the description sounds intriguing.

East of Desolation - Jack Higgins *****

A book written in a different style and formula than you would usualy expect from Higgins. In fact, it really reminds me of Alisitair Macleans Bear Island.

The plot is simple enough, an ex forces pilot decides to live for a while in Greenland to escape the pressures of modern civilisation and earn a living through his wits.

His life is disrupted when he is offered to charter a number of people (including a beautiful widow) to a plane crash in order to identify the dead husband.

However events take a more sinister turn, with lots of double agents and storyline twists the plot rattles along to a most unexpected conclusion.

Another Higgins classic and as always, very recommendable.

The bookstore that I went to yesterday had no books by either Higgins or Cassell. It was kind of disappointing, but I will keep looking.
--BJ

Cassel is an author on here, may be worth dropping him a line. really nice guy :)

Uncertain Paradise: 1973: The Latter Days - John W Cassell *****

Before I begin my review I would just like to say a massive thanks to John for being such a great guy. I would urge all members of librarything to acquaint themselves with his work. Whatever my words try to express below, it definitely won't do enough justice to the novel.

This book is the sequel to Uncertain Paradise. I would recommend reading the prequel first or you will be lost in the plot as a lot has gone on previously.

This book details the second half of Cassells year on Maggie Rock, the newly independent island in the pacific ocean. However things are not going smoothly. Cassell has to deal with betrayal, anxiety, and a life forced into turmoil. Already heavily involved in the islands militia he must decide where his loyalties lie, often choosing between his own personal needs and those of his country. This results in both physical and mental pain.

You will follow Cassell on a personal journey whilst feeling every emotion as the character shares his innermost fears regarding the dangerous world he has found himself plunged into.

Whatever your personal preference for the contents of a novel, I can pretty much guarantee you'll find it here. There is action in the form of jungle combat & invading communist forces, tender moments coupled with lost love, and political wrangling aplenty. It reads almost as a personal diary but from a life you could only dream about.

The author obviously knows his stuff and the way that small island (and on times international) politics is portrayed in the book allows the reader to see it laid bare, which is a real eye opener.

I cannot believe that JWC has had such little recognition in the literary world but in a way I am glad that the novels are almost a little secret shared only by a select band of followers.

Do yourself a favour this year and pick up these books.... you can send me the thank you messages for introducing you to Cassell after you've read them :)

Nice review!
--BJ

Shark Troubles - Peter Benchley ****

Anyone who has enjoyed any of Benchleys numerous fictional novels will enjoy this fact filled book.

Although the title suggests the contents will just deal with sharks, all manner of dangerous marine life is explored and brought to life using the authors many many experiences and various pictures.

Also included are the encounters that inspired his best selling works and the authors reactions to the media and mans attitude to the planet.

The only reason i failed to give this book 5 stars is that after being told a few time that man is the biggest danger etc etc etc... it got slightly tiresome.

Z for Zachariah - Robert C O'Brian **

I was meant to read this book in school but for some reason we read children of the dust instead.

This novel at around 260 pages was around 200 pages too long. Very little happens, and to be honest it just feels like you want the character to curl up and die to save listening to any more of the whinging and teenage fantasy.

The concept of the 'novel' is that a 16 year old girl and a scientist are possibly the only two people left alive in the world following a nuclear war. She is alive because her valley has, and I'm not joking, it's own weather system. The scientist because he has helped invent an anti radiation rubber suit.....

He arrives at the valley and we have listen to various gushings from the girl of how she would like marry him under apple blossom etc etc..... never mind your family have been obliterated....

Things turn a sinister when the relationship sours, and so the story unfolds... poorly and slowly.....

I don't know about Z for Zachariah... D for Depressing seems more suited.

Loved the review for Z for Zachariah! (Thumbs up from me!)
--BJ

Sorry to be so behind on your thread, Lee. I hope to do better for the rest of the year.

don't know where the weeks have gone.... better get reviewing!!

Breakheart Pass - Alistair Maclean ****

I loved this book, possibly not enough for 5 stars but nearly.... :)

A multiple murder mystery set in 1873 and situated in the rocky mountains. A train is bound for a cholera stricken fort but things start to go wrong as people start dieing and going missing.

Who is the killer? The novel unravells at a rapid speed with various twists and turns that hook you until the dramatic outcome.

Def one worth trying as an introduction to maclean.

Sheba - Jack Higgins ***

Not my favourite Higgins offering by a long shot. I actually struggled to get to the end.

The plot is straight forward enough. Set just before WW2 Hitler has a proposition to disrupt allied interference with his invasion of Poland. Using the tomb of the legendary queen of Sheba as a base he hatches a deadly plan.

However, Kane (an exforces, misunderstood type) is hired to track down a missing exporer. Soon he has to pit his wits against a variety of enemys and the desert heat.

A fairly lively tale, but for some reason I just couldn't get it to hold my attention. Try many of Higgins other great works before this one. Probably for die hard fans only.

Pirates Latitude - Michael Crighton ****

I think that this book was one of the last written before his death and was found on his laptop by a personal assistant...

Set in the Mid 1600's Jamaica, Pirates Latitude is a yarn about pirates and the way they lived their lives.

I don't know how historically accurate the book is meant to be, and to be honest, who cares. If you are looking for a fun read thats full of cliches, then this is the book for you.

Captain Charles Hunter (an educated pirate) decides to lead an expedition to rob a treasure galleon that is stationed at an impregnable fortress. He decides to recruit a number of odd and differently skilled comrades to help with the quest. These include a Jew with half a hand, a sharp eyed girl dressed as a boy and a mute.

Along the journey expect to encounter sea monsters, cannibals, hidden treasure, sea battles, whoring, drinking and severe hardship.

However, when he returns, things are not as they should be..........

The pages fly by and the author adds a nice touch at the end explaining how and when the characters finally meet their maker.

Lots of nice reviews! I still haven't found a Jack Higgins book yet, but I am planning to get a book for a June group read, and I will look again then. I am a big fan of Alistair, but haven't read one in quite a while. I am also hoping to find a copy of A Game of Thrones while I am at it. I borrowed it from the library and thought it was good enough to have my own copy.
--BJ

Tarka the Otter - Henry Williamson ****

Been meaning to read this book for years. Finally got around to it after I saw a copy going cheap.

The novel tells the trials faced by an otter in the Devonshire countryside.

Taka is born 1 of 3 cubs, practically as soon as he is born he begins to recognise the dangers that will dictate and eventually end his life.

The book explores nature and the harshness encountered through both the wild and also mans interference. Nothing is left out or to the imagination. Often harrowing, the story details Tarka’s constant battle with the otter hounds, and in particular their fearsome leader Deadlock.

In many ways Williamson’s bleak writing of the English countryside reminded me of Cormac Macarthy, in particular the Orchard Keeper.

The only reason I gave this book 4 stars, not 5, is that the local dialect used for various landscape features got a bit tiresome and repetitive.

All in all, a very good read, but also a sad one which causes the reader to reflect on mans wrongful treatment of nature more than any other book I have read.

The Hour Before Midnight – Jack Higgins ****

Plot is typical Higgins. A trained killer is rescued from a prison in order to undertake a job that only he can do. He has to rescue a millionaires stepdaughter who has been kidnapped and is being held in the Sicilian mountains. As always, he is a hired killer, only working for money.

He has been rescued by a group of friends that he used to work with, almost a vigilante group that have since parted ways.

As is usual with Higgins the plot twists and turns along with nothing as it first seems. With mafia involvement you can expect plenty of killing action, torture & honour.

The main character turns out to be the nephew of the mafia boss and must rely on all his training in order to come out of the mission alive. It seems everything he has been told has been a lie, but now he must unravel then truth from the bizarre circumstances he has found himself in.

>66 Bridgey: There was an article in this morning's SF Chronicle about a pair of otters born in the Oakland Zoo. They will be a big draw!

Yeh,,, bit far for me to go :)

I've seen some in a local zoo. really cute. Can't help thinking they would make a nice pair of slippers though ;)

White Shark - Peter Benchley ****

A nazi experiment, put together during the war falls to the bottom of the sea. Decades later it is found.... and all hell breaks loose.

Benchley follows the Jaws/Beast theme with a sci fi twist.

As usual with his work the pages fly by. My only problem with the book was that parts were very in your face regarding how man is destroying the natural world. Often going off on a tangent for no particular reason.

I believe Benchley may have been seriously ill and at the end of his life, maybe he just wanted to use this novel to get a point across....

Expect numerous killings and plenty of well researched facts. Def worth a read, but try Beast first.

I read Tarka the Otter a few years back. I found the dialect a challenge, too. But I thought the ending was magnificent.

wasn't clear enough he died for me... thought maybe he may have just made it.. :)

I would like to think so, too. :)

We Die Alone - David Howarth ***

I really tried hard to like this book…. I know I should be more sympathetic to his plights, but to be honest, if you like POW escape stories that are packed with adventure, then I would really give this book a miss.

It starts off well enough, detailing how Jan manages to escape from the Germans and is betrayed. At times the tension is fraught and the plot races along.

However, as the novel continues, the story just becomes extremely repetitive. Jan is laid up in various sheds, caves etc, and you get so sick of hearing about the weather you just want something to happen to break the monotony of the book.

If I had to sum up the story it would be: Snow, sleep, snow, sleep & a bit more snow….

I know that it is a miracle he survived the ordeal but it’s just not a very exciting one…

The Eyes of the Dragon - Stephen King ***

A bit different from the usual King offering.

Flagg (from ‘The Stand’) is the royal magician to the ageing Roland the Good. When the King is seemingly poisoned by his eldest son Peter, the throne is passed to Thomas, his younger brother. Flagg ensures that he is the only advisor, determined to plunge the land of Delaine into chaos.

Can Peter escape from the needle in time to save the day? Can civil war be averted?

I have to says that the book flowed well enough, but anyone who is a fan of King for his horror work will be bitterly disappointed. Often the prose seems too childish, and on occasion I think maybe King was having a side bet on how many times he could use the phrase ‘Time out of Mind’ in a single novel.

Worth a look, but not up to his usual standard. Not his worst book I have read, but very close. I think maybe is should have been referenced under the ‘Young Adult’ section of the bookshop.

Comes the Dark Stranger - Jack Higgins *****

Martin Shane is back in his old neighbourhood, and he’s looking for revenge…

After suffering an injury in the Korean War he was hospitalised with amnesia due to shrapnel lodged in his brain. A fall down a flight of stairs 7 years later causes the metal to move and the memories come flooding back….

Captured as POW, Shane and 4 Comrades were tortured by the sadistic Chinese officer Li until one of them ‘spilled his guts’. This resulted in Shane’s best friend being killed.

One by one he seeks out the remaining survivors, determined to find out the coward. However, what he uncovers is a trail of lies, murder & blackmail.

Another Higgins classic, at only 185 pages the novel flies by. Expect a lot of action, a fair bit more suspense than the usual Higgins novel. Not one of his best, but very enjoyable nonetheless.

Way behind on threads, Lee, but hopefully I can keep up with you from here on out!

I really need to read some Jack Higgins it looks like!

The Girl who Loved Tom Gordon - Stephen King *

Ok, as you can tell by my other reads this year, I enjoy a good King novel. With this I mind I picked up this novel.....

If ever I have read a book that should never have been written, this is it. The whole story could easily be reduced to 20 or 30 pages. If I had to sum it up this is what i would say...

Girl gets lost in woods, girl swats bugs from face, girl falls down, girl swats more bugs from face. Girl then eats, adjusts backpack a few dozen times, swats even more bugs and falls down a bit more.

The whold novel bored me to tears and I found myself wishing for the end more than any other book before.

If you haven't the slightest idea about baseball, I would also give this book a wide berth as the girl constantly is in talks with an imaginery version of Tom Gordan.

I really didn't think that King was capable of writing such crap, but he definately is.......

#78: Sounds like a terrible read! I hope your next one is much better for you!

The King books seem to be letting you down lately. I did not realize that the character from The Stand (which I loved) was in other books by King.

I didn't either. I really liked the stand as well. Got about 6 more of his in my 'to be read' pile so will hopefully enjoy those more.

The eyes of the dragon was ok, just a bit too much like a fairytale.

Reading a Wilbur Smith novel at the moment, my first one by him and enjoying it a lot.

Did you contact John Cassell on here after? Try his Uncertain Paradise novels if your after a different type of book.

The Diamond Hunters - Wilbur Smith ****

My first ever novel by Wilbur Smith, and I have to honest it was very enjoyable.

Johny Lance is the adopted son into a family run diamond finding business. Unfortunately things take a sinister turn after a childhood incident. Villified by all except his stepsister he continues to show loyalty to the company, even thinking he has gained acceptance when he is included in his stepfathers will. This turns out to be his stepfathers legacy that he be absolutely ruined.

His stepbrother, Benedict, makes it his lifes ambition to destroy Lance. This results in blackmail, smuggling and eventually even murder.

The only reason I give the book 4 instead of 5 was that I felt a bit too much of the plot was given away too early in the book.

Will def try this author again.

Wrath of the Lion – Jack Higgins ****

A submarine falls into the hands of French renegades who are using it in order to deal out their own cruel form of justice.

Formerly known as the butcher of Perak, Neil Mallory is assigned to find out the whereabouts in the Channel Islands. Posing as a boat navigator for the now ailing General Grant. Assisted by his French counterpart, can he stop the submarine from inflaming the cold war? Is he able to overcome past demons in order to save the day?

Another Higgins novel where the pages fly by. The ending appeared a little rushed but this early novel gives great glimpses into many of the later characters Higgins develops.

Well worth a read, although a little clichéd at times.

#82: I have not read any Wilbur Smith either, although I do have his River God in the BlackHole. I will have to give The Diamond Hunters a shot too, I can see.

Hunters Moon - David Devereux ***

Don’t really know where to start with this book. At times gruesome, at other times incredibly childish….. Imagine you are a 13 year old boy, interested in James Bond and the Ghostbusters, mixed in with a juvenile fascination with sex. You sit down and decide to write a book, giving yourself only a few days to do so. I think your finished product would be very similar to Hunters Moon.

The plot centres around an unnamed assassin but we can call him Jack) working for an undercover MI5 type institution. However, there is a difference. He is highly skilled in the black arts/magic/witchcraft etc

Jack is assigned to a case to stop a terrorist organisation run by lesbians with the ability to alter mind through using sexual tension. Along the way he enlist the help of various ex colleagues, including a retired man in black and the spirit of his dead friend.

The book is written in the first person and in a style that would not be suited to everyone. Often quite abruptly written and almost with an underdeveloped feel to the plot.

I can’t say it was a bad or a good read. The pages seemed to by quickly enough, although at times I did feel like throwing it out the window.

The Gunslinger – Stephen King ****1/2

This is the first book of the ‘Dark Tower’ series. Been meaning to read these for ages but never got around to it.

The book features ‘The man in Black’, and no, it’s not Johnny Cash, it’s Flagg. Also known from the other King book’s ‘Eyes of the Dragon’ and ‘The Stand’.

Roland, the last gunslinger, is tracking the man in black. We are not told how long this has gone on for, but we join them as the chase gets very close.

Along the way we are allowed into a little of Roland’s past and the tale of how he came into manhood.

I don’t want to say much about the story line for fear of showing some spoilers that may ruin it for someone else. All I can say is that this is classic King as his very nearly best. This was one of those novels where I found myself daydreaming in work and wondering what would happen next. When I’d finished I went and bought the other 6 books in the series.

In this first book, we are also introduced to Jake, a boy pushed into Roland’s dimension to befriend him and test his strength of character. Roland’s world has ‘moved on’ and although there are many things we recognise, most would seem at home in the Old Wild West, including the town of Tull. Expect demons, oracles, talking crows called Zoltan and of course the formidable Man in Black.

Enjoy!

The Road to Samarcand - Patrick O'Brian *

Have only read one O’Brian novel before, Master and Commander. Fairly enjoyed that so starting reading the road to Samarcand after seeing it on sale in a bookshop.

I have to be honest and say that I could not finish the book, it was awful. Usually no matter how bad a book is I struggle through to the end, but after 5 nights and only 69 pages I eventually put it to one side.

The story is so full of annoying characters that I just couldn’t go on any longer. There is a scholarly absentminded professor, a hired help who says the work Ay every few words and Chinese cook who has a broad knowledge of the English language. He is the worst, with every sentence he speaks in a disjointed mixture of forced grammar.

I hated it…. Can’t say more than that. Think this will be my last book by the author.

As far as I could tell, the plot is set in around 1950’s china (although you wouldn’t think it with all the horseback fighting etc). Derrick visits his elderly cousin who is a professor of archaeology via his uncles sailing ship. The Chinese cook makes many references to ‘learned scholar’. They go to look at some remains of a building against the advice of locals etc, and get kidnapped…. Then I threw it away.

Kind of a mixed bag, isn't it? I loved the review of The Gunslinger. I have never read any of the Dark Tower books because I had taken a break from King when they came out. However, I loved the book The Stand. I had no idea that Flagg was in so many books! So I decided to wishlist that one. I was interested in the Master and Commander series, but after that review I am no longer so sure. Have a great day!

The Drawing of the Three - Stephen King ****

The second part of the Dark Tower series... This sees Roland continue his quest to find the tower. It starts where the previous novel left off. Roland is on a beach where he is attacked by some wierd 'lobstrosities'. On the beach he finds 3 doors, each leading to different times in new york and to 3 different people. Eddie Dean, a heroin addict, Odetta walker, a black woman with a split personality and Jack Mort a serial killer.

Despite ailing health Roland must find out what each of them mean to the puzzle of finding the dark Tower...

A very good second book in the series, although some of plot was a little confusing at times.

The Waste Lands – Stephen King *****

The third offering in the Dark Tower series sees Roland, Eddie and Susan making their way across Mid world in the attempt to find the elusive Dark Tower. Along the way they encounter many colourful characters which include a massive Android Bear, a sex starved Demon and the disjointed inhabitants of the town of Lud.

This is easily the best of the series to date, with King going back to his earlier horror roots on several occasions.

Pay the Devil – Jack Higgins ***

A very different offering from Higgins, originally written in the early 60’s under the name Harry Patterson, it has been rereleased.

The plot is set at the end of the American civil war. Colonel Fitzgerald is on the wrong side of the battle and must accept defeat. However he has been left a millionaire and property in rural ireland.

With the war still fresh in his mind he leaves for Ireland with his black servant Josh. When he arrives things are far from the idyllic surrounds he was hoping for. He becomes disgusted at the way the English landlords are treating the peasants and is soon forced to take sides. Under the cover of darkness and dressed as the elusive Captain Swing he decides to make an example of the local gentry. However things soon take a disastrous turn of events…

Not one of Higgins best, and the plot was at times repetitive. Worth a look, but try others before this.

I finally got a Higgins book from amazon. I ordered The Eagle has Landed. It looks like it is going to be a good one. I forgot to order the last book of the Border trilogy while I was ordering. (I finally found the first two books.)

The eagle has landed was my first Higgins book... hope you enjoy!!! If you enjoy that one, may I suggest following up with 'A Prayer for the Dieing'.

I love the border trilogy, it's one of those books that at times was a struggle because of the spanish, but is also one of the books I keep thinking about.

Thanks for the recommendation of A Prayer for the Dying. I added it to my wishlist.

Wizard and Glass – Stephen King ****

The fourth instalment of the dark tower series. Firstly, this book at 840 pages long is about 300 pages too much. I feel the editor was having a nap when he reviewed this or just didn’t want to hurt Mr King’s feelings….

The novel starts off where the previous left off with the ‘ka-tet’ aboard Blaine the riddle loving locomotive.

After the journey and the appearance of a ‘thinny’ Roland decides to tell the group some of his past and how he came to be on the track of the dark tower and meets his love Susanne Delgado.

Along the way we meet some of King’s best characters, which include a witch (Rhea of the Coors) accompanied with her snake and 6 legged cat….

At least 300 pages of this massive novel feel like I’ve slipped into a mills and boon story, and was just a lot too… slushy I suppose. That’s why I can only give 4 stars and not 5. But, as with the previous novels, it has left me looking forward to the next instalment.

Death Sentence – Brian Garfield ****

The sequel to the excellent Death Wish. The first thing to point out is that this is not the same as the film sequel to the movie.

Paul Benjamin has moved to Chicago, intent on making criminals pay for their deeds he purchases two guns and sets his traps to ensnare them.

Things don’t turn out as well as he expected when a new woman in his life complicates his emotions and then a copycat vigilante starts to hurt innocent people.

A quick read at just over 160 pages but an easy one and brings up a lot of interesting points.

*Waving* at Lee - just to let you know I am still lurking

Good :) so am I.... hope your enjoying your year so far!

My year has picked up here lately :)

The Khufra Run – Jack Higgins ***1/2

Jack Nelson is a freelance pilot with the horrors of the Vietnam War in his not too distant past. One night when he is driving home a naked girl runs out in the front of his headlights being chased by a group of young men. She turns out to be Sister Bouvier and enlists Nelson and his best friend Turk’s help in recovering an airplane loaded with treasure from the deadly Khufra marshes.

What unfolds is a tale of deceit, death and hardship.

Higgins is in familiar territory with this novel and it has a striking similarity to ‘A sad wind from the sea’ an earlier book written under the pseudonym of Harry Patterson. A quick and enjoyable read, with more than one unexpected twist.

The Search for the Giant Squid – Richard Ellis ***

After reading Peter Benchley’s Beast I starting getting more and more interested in Giant Squid. With this in mind I bought ‘The search for the Giant squid’.

To be totally honest I was hoping for more tales of encounters and the mythology surrounding the squid. Instead the book ran like an encyclopaedia with whole paragraphs being dedicated to just figures and statistics.

A whole chapter is dedicated to why the squid is called so many different things by different people… yawn!

A lot of the book I just scanned picking out the various interesting bits of data. A lot of what is covered has been long outdated or just proven wrong. If you want a quick and interesting read give this a miss and have a quick look on wiki, also saving a few quid in the process.

Condemned to Devil's Island - Blair Niles **

Ok, so I bought this book because I love Pappilon. I was hoping for another gripping read detailing the conditions endured. Unfortunately I just didn't get anything out of this book at all.

The novel follows the life of a young man call michel who is sent to the islands for 7 years. Along the way various friends die and escape is never far from his mind. However far too often the narrative just drifts away into almost a dreamlike state, and thats where I tend to drift off to sleep.

I'm sure that when this was written (1930's) it was a lot more daring that it seems now, and I think I've read that it even led to prison reforms. Now though, it just seemed very dated.

Sounds like you have had a couple of disappointing reads in a row, Lee. I hope your next one is terrific!

Me too... :)

The Rite - Matt Baglio ***

The true story following Father Gary Thomas as he trains to become an exorcist.

Not much to say really, was quite bored a lot of the time as the book went into all the different theologies surround the catholic faith etc.

Some nice moments but far too repetitive.

The Captain - Seymour Shubin ****

Now this is more like it... if you enjoy the 70's style of crime thrillers like Death Wish, then you'll love this.

The Captain is a retired chief of police, forced into a nursing home by his children following the death of his wife. Surrounded by senile inmates and unsympathetic staff he decides to strike a blow for the elderley in the only way he knows how... killing the offenders.

I loved this book and have been trying to get hold of it since a recommendation was made on here by a fellow member. The only reason I downgraded to 4 stars is that at times the plot got confusing with new characters being introduced.

A nice take on how we treat the aged with a strong moral theme running throughout. A few great twists and an awesome ending.

Give it a try!

The Captain sound interesting. I am going to see if my library has it.

I am reading Breakheart Pass by Alistair MacLean this month based on your recommendation awhile back. I am almost done and it is excellent. I am going to have to read some more MacLean titles.

#106: The Captain looks like a book I would enjoy. Thanks for the recommendation, Lee!

I enjoyed Breakheart pass, another book I liked by mclean was 'the way to dusty death'...

Reading Deliverance at the moment... not as good as I thought it would be.

If you want a book with a bit of everything try uncertain paradise loved that book and a 2nd sequel is being released soon.

Deliverance - James Dickey ***

Like most people I really enjoyed the film and it stirred a sense of adventure in me. With this in mind I purchased the novel, and after reading so many 5 star reviews on Amazon thought I was going to be in for a treat...

To say the novel starts off mundane really is an understatement (I understand this is done to show a contrast to the river trip... but does it have to be so long???) the first 40 odd pages are taken up describing his office, business, work colleagues etc etc etc, and this is out of a book with only 230 pages.

Anyway, 4 friends decide to throw off the shackles of approaching midlife and plan a trip down a river before the valley is dammed for a lake. The protagonist (Ed) is semi successful business man but totally in awe of his best mate Lewis, who is apparently the epitome of human perfection....

I won't go too much into the story as it would spoil the book, but expect inbred hillbillies, guns and a fair amount of testosterone.

Would I read it again? No.
Would I recommend it? Probably not.
Am I glad I read it? Possibly.

I know I am in the minority in giving just 3 stars but I really struggled to get through this book and it is one of the very few where I preferred the film.

I have not seen the film and really am not interested in the book either, so I am giving it a pass.

I hope your next read is a more enjoyable one for you, Lee!

Flight of Eagles - Jack Higgins **** ½

Two twin brothers, Max and Harry find themselves on opposite sides in the second world war.

Born to an American father and German mother loyalities are divided when the father is killed and the boys mother decides to head back to her native Germany to claim her heritage.

Max being the oldest by ten minutes becomes a Baron, while Harry stays with him grandfather, soon to be a senator. Both boys decide to follow in their fathers footsteps and become fighter pilots. At the break of war they both join the RAF and Luftwaffe respectively and soon become Ace's and work their way through the rankings.

At the heart of the tale is a stuffed bear called Tarquin, carried by their father as Macsot on every flight and handed down to Harry who does the same.

At the start of the novel, set in 1997, the bear is once again airborne and survives a crash into the channel. The lifeboat coxswain (now 85) picks up the survivors and recognises the bear and memorys come flooding back. With a little digging around the full tale is told.

This book is wriiten in very much the same style as The Eagle has landed. As usual, Higgins makes the pages fly by. I have read other reviews where historical inaccuracies have been made apparent, but unless your a total History geek, you won't even notice these.

The Dark of The Sun – Wilbur Smith **** ½

Set in Africa during the Congo crisis Bruce Curry is given the mission of liberating a towns citizens (and the diamonds) from the marauding rebels.

There are only him and 3 other white men with him, a disgraced alcoholic doctor, a repressed homosexual and the ever bullying Wally Hendry. They have to lead a small mercenary band on this mission encountering bloodshed at every turn.

A page-turner of a novel with some very nice gory touches which include torture and cannibalism.

A few parts were a bit too slushy for me… (Why do they always fall in love after about 6 hours…?) but a very good read all the same. I especially like the way Smith shares the characters thoughts as well as what they say.

Will definitely be seeking out more works by this author.

Circus - Alistair Maclean ****

Bruno Wildermann is member of the blind eagles, working for the Wrinfield Circus he is billed as the greatest trapeze artist of all time.

Using his skills he is approached by the CIA to return to his home country and steal the newly discovered formula for antimatter. Along there way he must encounter murder & double agents at every turn.

A nice idea for a book and the first 3 quarters was very well written, however the ending seemed a bit too convenient for my liking and didn't flow as well as the rest of the book.

Toll for the Brave - Jack Higgins **** ½

Ellis Jackson is a failed English soldier and considered a disgrace to his General Grandfather. With this in mind he joins the American army and goes to Vietnam.

Whilst there he becomes captured and imprisoned along with the almost superhero status 'Black Max'.

They manage to escape to freedom, but not before months of mental torture.

A number of years later Ellis has settled down, has a steady girlfriend but is still haunted by nightmares of his past. One day, while taking the dog for a walk in the English countryside he is assaulted by 2 Viet cong. Convinced he is was right, but told by everyone he is losing his mind he sets out to find evidence. However, upon returning home he in knocked unconscious only to awaken to shotgun blasted remains of his partner and best friend.

Has he really lost his mind, or is it an elaborate plan to make him think he has.........

Another good story by Higgins, although once again a bit on the short side. Read it in practically one go, and loved it.

Corsair - Tim Severin ****

This in the first book in a trilogy following the trials and tribulations of Hector Lynch. Set in the 17th Century it is a historical adventure novel. He is abducted from his home, along with his sister, in Ireland by a Corsair, then sold off as a slave.

In order to be treated more fairly in his role as a slave he decides (with a friend called Dan) to take the turban and convert from christianity to islam. However when he takes to the sea in a robbing spree his ship is attacked and he becomes once again a slave, this time however to the Christians.

Joined by 3 friends (a french burglar, a fellow slave & a mutilated christian) we follow his life from country to country and enslaver to enslaver.

Not a bad book, but occasionally read like a school textbook with the author seeming more intent on facts than plot. I was bordering on 3 or 4 stars for the book, but I think I learnt a few new facts along the journey so gave it a 4l

Would I read the rest of the trilogy? I'm not sure, but you never know.......

Island - Richard Laymon *****

My first ever book by this author, and it definately won't be my last.

The plot is very simple, 8 people decide to go on a boat cruise to celebrate a wedding anniversary. The group are made up of couples (Andrew & Billie - parents of the 3 girls, Connie and Rupert, Keith & Kimberley & Wesley & Thelma).

The boat blows up with Wesley aboard whilst the others are enjoying a picnic on a secluded island. Trapped on the island they decide to make the best of a bad situation, that is until they start getting killed one by one.

The story is told by Rupert through his Journal which he kept at the time. He is Connies boyfriend, 18 years old and hormones raging.

This book has so many different emotions running through it, at times I would be laughing out loud, at others grimacing at torture scenes. Possibly not one for the faint hearted. A bit like Stephen King but more rape, blood and guts. At just over 500 pages I was suprised how quickly I got through it. A real page turner.

I received this book as part of the giveaway on here :)

Identity: Lost - Pascal Marco ****

James Overstreet is a young black boy growing up in 1970's Chicago. Living on the shores of Lake Michigan he likes nothing more than to ride his bike through the local park. One day he gets chatting to an elderly gent and they soon strike up a friendship fuelled by their love of baseball.

A local gang begin making life difficult for the newly found friends which ultimately leads to the killing of Mr Fleishman with James being the only witness. Agreeing to stand at the trial the case fails and it's not long before the gang attempt to ensure a swift revenge.

Placed into witness protection his life and his families life are turned upside down. 30 years later James is at the top of the legal profession when the arrest of two drug runners forces him to face up to his past.

What ensues is a cat and mouse game with his life and career hanging in the balance. A life where not everything is as it seems

This novel as plenty of twists and turns, some are apparent but many are out of the blue. I was debating on the amount of stars to rate this book... the pages turned quickly enough and my interest was kept going. The downside for me was that the book got a little too hung up on baseball (not something we know much about in the UK) and also very bogged down in the usage of law terminology. Sometimes I just felt like shouting at the author "Ok, you know your stuff... get over it!!!)

If the author releases any more novels I will be sure to track them down and give them a try.

Hello :) You've read some great books so far this year. How are you enjoying the Dark Tower series?

Hey Gogs...

Have to be honest I am enjoying them but I think they are getting progressively worse as the series in going on, and more confusing :)

post a link to your thread on here!

yes, they are confusing at some points! I should give them a re-read at some point, I read them so long ago I forget the storeyline of the first few

my link is here

Yeh... I am enjoying them but read a review on here that gave away some of the ending of the last book which has spoilt the series a bit for me. Some people just don't have a brain!! :)

Anyway, gonna finish the Wolves of the Calla and then try another Jack Higgins.

I haven't tried any Jack Higgins before. Another author I have missed over the years I guess

Give a Prayer for the dying, or the eagle has landed a go... :)

Wolves of the Calla – Stephen King ****

The fifth instalment of the Dark Tower series…..

The Katet come upon a town on the path of the beam, Calla Bryn Sturges, the town has a problem that once every generation it is invaded by the wolves (not real wolves) who take one child of every twin (something the town has an abundance of). The twin is returned a few weeks later ‘roont’, a term used by the locals to describe the mental condition of the child. They are imbeciles and grow to gigantic proportions, live in pain and die young.

The group decide they must help the town and Roland puts together a plan. Alongside this they have to deal with Susannah’s demonic pregnancy, the black 13 wizard’s glass and a new portal to New York where they must protect the rose at all costs.

Interestingly we are reintroduced to father Callaghan (first seen in Salem’s Lot), he has turned up in Roland’s world and become part of the intricate workings of Ka.

I really struggled at points with this book, on occasion I felt the plot was just too confusing with all the different worlds and timelines. But as always, King kept me engrossed in the plot enough to return.

I wish that I had reread Salem’s lot before starting this book, but it was nice to see a number of King’s creations make an appearance; it’s almost as if he’s tying up all his characters in this series.

I gave to book 4 stars, parts were worth 5 but at nearly 800 pages I felt it was all a bit too overwhelming. I’ve never been a huge fan of the whole time travelling/different dimension plot, but King does a decent job, and I have to admit I think he’s created his best ever character in Roland.

I think King Himself will be making an appearance in the next novel, I don’t know how I feel about that but hope it works out ok…..

Hell is too Crowded – Jack Higgins ***

Matt Brady is minding his own business, sat on a bench when a face appears through the fog. It disappears, when a girl runs past and stops to chat. She invites him back to her place for a drink… he falls asleep after a cocktail is given to him.

In the morning he is awakened by the police, still groggy from the night before he is shown the bloody remains of the girl and arrested for her murder. Despite protesting his innocence he is sentenced to life imprisonment.

Meanwhile at the prison he is visited by an ex colleagues daughter who believes his innocence. Using his skills as a structural engineer he devises an escape plan to track down those who framed him for the crime. An attempt on his life in the jail provides a clue to the where he needs to start his investigation.

Wanted by the police and the framers he begins his desperate journey to prove his innocence accompanied by Ann.

Not my favourite in the Higgins collection, at just 168 pages the book seemed way too short and rushed, with too many coincidences.

This was one of his first novels written under Higgins' real name of Harry Patterson and penned to supplement his income as a teacher at the time.

Worth the look for a fan, but not as an introduction.

Glad you liked Wolves of the Calla. I really need to revisit that series!

The Lonely Sea- Alistair Maclean ****½

An interesting collection of both factual and fictional stories all interlinked with the sea. Very enjoyable collection and a nice change to the novels he is most famous for. At times harrowing in its description of death and the harshness of the sea, obviously Maclean drew upon his own years in the Navy for inspiration.

The Dileas – Maclean’s first story, entered into a Scottish newspaper competition and eventually leading him into a publishing contract. The story details a lifeboat crew that must endure a storm and make some tough decisions on lives to save. The dialect can be slightly confusing at times but a very nice introduction to both Maclean and the book.

St. George and the dragon – A fictional account of a trouble on the canal ways. George helps a lady in distress from a thug looking to steal her business. A funny little tale and quite unexpected

The Arandora Star – True account of how the ship was torpedoed despite showing the Red Cross flag. The ship was carrying over 1100 German and Italian internees to be sent to POW camps. Maclean also highlights how the press of the time vilified the prisoners advising that they fought over lifeboats etc. However, eyewitness accounts show that this is not the case. Also the reason for the high loss of life was the barbed wire surrounding the decks and lifeboats place by the British Navy to discourage escape attempts.

Rawalpindi – Another factual account of a British ship in wartime. The Rawalpindi was looking for German warship and misidentified its target. Unfortunately for Captain Kennedy he had sighted the Sharnhorst and was no match for its guns. Despite this the Rawalpindi declined to surrender and met its demise. A phenomenal account of British courage in the face of adversity.

The sinking of the Bismarck – The true tale of how the might of the British navy overcame the greatest German battleship of all time.

The Meknes – Factual account if the Meknes, a cruiser with nearly 1300 French men due to be repatriated. All lights were blazing (unusual as any light at sea made a target for U boats) and the French Flag flying. However a German U boat torpedoed the vessel sinking it and machine gunning the survivors as they sat in lifeboats. The UK government had advised the Crew that the German authorities were informed of the nature of the ship and requested safe passage, the Germans however declared no knowledge. Many years later it came to light that the British gave very little details, if any to the Germans.

MacHinery and the Cauliflowers – A made up story of smuggling and undercover police work to catch a drug dealer.

Lancastria – The sinking of this vessel has the title of the single largest loss of life in Maritime history. The ship, originally designed to hold around 2200 personnel was crowded with over 5000 under orders of the admiralty. Because of this disaster much of the story was covered up by the British Government at the time. (And I believe still, even today is signed under the official secrets act).

McCrimmon and the Blue Moonstones - Another fictitious tale. Two cousins decide to but some Diamonds from a local shady character and sell them on for several times their worth. Unfortunately things don’t go to plan…..

They Sweep the Seas – True account of a day in the life of the sweepers. These are the brave men who by joining a length of chain between two trawlers ‘sweep’ back and forth the shipping lanes collecting and then detonating any mines found.

City of Benares – The true story detailing the account of 2 survivors of the disaster. The ship was carrying 90 children to Canada as evacuees. Torpedoed by a German U boat all but 12 of the children died. It also details the cowardice of the Luftwaffe by dropping firebombs on the oil soaked sea in order to burn any survivors.

The Gold Watch – The smallest of the fictional stories details the relationship between a captain and his precious watch, can a mishap prove his waterproof claim?

Rendezvous - A strange tale that I found hard to follow and the reason for the book not getting 5 stars. A cruisers captain is asked to take aboard 2 agents in order to set up listening posts off the coast of Sicily. However they fall under suspicion when the Germans appear to start having inside information. Things are not as they seem as the tale unfolds…

The Jervis Bay – Factual account of the Armed Merchant Cruiser Jervis Bay and how she came to be sunk by the German ship Admiral Scheer. Edward Fegen, the Jervis’ Captain was awarded the posthumous Victoria Cross for courage shown. The Jervis Bay was the escort for 37 goods ships bringing much needed supplies to our shores. Although heavily outgunned Captain Fegen gave his life to slow up the Admiral Scheer, reported to have one arm blown off he still navigated his ship into the path of the oncoming enemy allowing the majority of the convoy to escape.

Give it a try...... :)

The Testament of Caspar Chultz - Jack Higgins ****

This is the first time we encounter super spy Paul Chavasse. For fans of Higgins later novels starring Sean Dillon this seems to be where the character begins.

Caspar Shultz is one of the most prominent Nazis yet to be brought to justice, he was in the bunker in the final days with Bormann & Hitler.

It has come to light that he has written his memoirs and intends to publish them. This will cause embarrassment to British sympathisers at the time and also provide evidence against a number of Nazis that have kept the crimes they committed under the radar.

The British get Paul Chavasse on the case, a man who only wants to get the job done and doesn't mind killing a few people in the process. He is joined by a Jewish group who have made it their ambition to bring Nazis to justice for war crimes. Ultimately he falls in love with Anna, one of their agents.

Pitched against the deadly Inspector Steiner & Doctor Kruger, who will reach manuscript first, or for that matter, even remain alive.

Originally written under the pen name Martin Fallon, this is an early Higgins offering, certainly not up there with The Eagle has Landed, but worth a look.

I think I would like The Lonely Sea.

Caravan to Vaccares - Alistair Maclean ****

An annual Gypsy pilgrimage takes place to the south of France each year, however this year there are people getting killed. Carl Bowman is secret service and determined to find out the secret being held.

Maclean has created some strong characters in the form of Bowman, Le Grand Duc & Czerda. As usual there are plenty of twists along the way with very few characters as they seem at first glance. Everyone has a motive and only death can stand between them and the goal.

Some very nice scenes including a bullfight.

I wanted to give this book 5 stars but at times it was slightly too slushy for my taste.

Year of the Tiger - Jack Higgins *****

A new release of a Higgins offering written in the 60's. The book has a newly written beginning and ending which are set in modern times (or at least modern when rereleased in the 90's).

Paul Chavasse is back, this time he is sent to the frozen lands of Tibet. After rescuing the Dalai Lama he is requested to re-enter the country in order to bring back vital information that could help the west in the space race. This information comes in the form of a Doctor Hoffner who has shunned fame and fortune in order to help local villagers in their health and also their battle against the Chinese. The militants are headed by the very formidable Captain Li who will stop at nothing, including torture to get what he wants.

An excellent read with a few twists and turns, alongside the action Higgins is famed for.

Pig Island - Mo Haydner ***

A strange book, one I picked up as I thought it sounded similar to The Wicker Man film.

The cover promises all sorts of horror and scares, but unfortunately the book really failed to deliver any of them. At times the plot got a little gory but I felt was more in comic effect rather than thriller.

Joe Oakes is a reporter whose job is to expose myths as frauds, so when a recording is taken of the apparent devil on Pig Island, and large amounts of Pig guts wash up on the shore he is sent to the north of Scotland to investigate. He takes his wife with him and she stays on the mainland whilst he goes to investigate. Pig Island is owned by Malachi Dove (a hoax preacher and current head of the Psychogenic Healing Ministry – a ministry that dismiss modern medicine). Something has gone wrong on the island and this has resulted in Malachi living in seclusion far from the other 30 members. These members are also unaware of the link between Malachi and Joe several years previous. Some of the congregation report seeing ‘the devil’ wandering around the island and reluctantly share their experiences with Joe. Not content with their explanations he decides to explore for himself – and that’s when the trouble begins.

The novel is written in alternating chapters through the eyes of Joe and his wife Lexie, which works quite well but at times can be annoying, especially as parts of the story are covered twice.

There are a number of twists and turns but a few of them are given away too early in the plot. I would say the book is worth a read, and really only gave it 3 stars instead of 4 because the cover promised so much extra (but I suppose it did its job and got me to buy it).

The Keys of Hell - Jack Higgins ***

Another example of Higgins early work where he has written a new framework around an old story.

Paul Chavasse in his 3rd outing under Higgins’s pen takes on a mission to help a woman he meets at an embassy dinner. She reports that she is trying to get ‘The Black Madonna’ (A religious statue) out of Albania but her brother has been killed in the process and the boat sunk deep in the Albanian Marshes.

Enlisting the help of a colleague he goes in search of the lost idol. However, things and people are not what they seem and what follows is a tale of deception, deceit and death. A few nice twists but the story is one that I have read several times before from Higgins (The Khufra Marshes/Sad Wind from the Sea).

A nice try but doesn’t do it for me.

The Boys from Brazil - Ira Levin ****

My first book by the author, and I don’t think it will be my last….

Dr Josef Mengele is alive and kicking in Brazil, he is at the centre of a plot to begin the reintroduction of the 3rd Reich. 94 middle aged men must die on specific dates in order for the plan to come into fruition, but standing in his way are an aging Nazi hunter and his newly appointed apprentice.

Can they stop Mengele in time?

An interesting concept and well written, at time the plot was given away a little earlier that would have liked but all in all a very good read. Probably not one that I will revisit but one that I will remember.

Midnight Never Comes – Jack Higgins ***

Paul Chavasse is back but this time he finds that his physical and mental health is failing and as a result is pensioned off by the secret service. Feeling used up he stumbles into a Chinese restaurant where money is being demanded in a local gang protection scheme. As usual Paul jumps in head first and helps to defend the establishment. However, little was as it seems and the uncle of the restaurant owner reveals himself to be a Shaolin Monk, in repayment for Paul’s help he trains in him the ancient art of Chi…

Back to full health, Paul is taken back to original position, only to find he is on his most dangerous mission yet. He has to infiltrate the ring of Max Donner, a self made millionaire, who is linked to some very shady characters. Russian scientists that have defected to the west are strangely disappearing and Chavasse must find out the answers. Relocated to the northern Scottish shore he must unravel the mysteries and stop what could become a full scale war.

Although I really enjoyed this novel, the nearly exact same story was repeated in another Higgins offering with the inimitable Sean Dillon. This spoilt my enjoyment but if I had read this novel first I think it would have gotten 4 stars instead of 3.

The Swarm - Frank Schätzing ****

The main thing that I got out of this novel is a hernia… only joking but it really is a heavy book….

The worlds oceans are starting to turn against us land lubbers, and we see an array of creatures attacking mankind and its machinery. We encounter worms, crabs, jellyfish, whales & algae all out with a vengeance. We don’t know why or how, but the resulting plagues, tsunamis and deaths mean we have to find out, and sharpish!

Colonel Li is assigned with putting together a team of scientists in order to safeguard the very future of the Human race, but is it too little too late? Luke Anawak is a marine biologist, a specialist in the field of whale intelligence, Jack ‘Greywolf’ Bannon is an ex navy seal with a passion for animal rights, whilst Sigor Johanson is a leading expert in invertebrates under the sea. Accompanied by various others they must first find the cause of the uprising and then the solution.

This is a book of mammoth proportions, at times it seemed like almost a cross between Peter Benchley and Steven King. The only thing that stopped me giving the book 5 stars was that at times it was a little too preachy. We are all aware that the oceans are being polluted but an essay on the subject every dozen pages wasn’t all that necessary. Despite its size the book held my interest throughout with a large number of characters with well rounded personalities.

Would I recommend it? Probably.
Would I reread it? Probably not.
Am I glad I read it? Definitely.

Dark Side of the Street - Jack Higgins *****

Paul Chavasse is in his 5th outing as the super spy.

Criminals are being busted out of jail with external help from an unknown source called the Baron. In return they give up the secret of where they hid the unlocated cash from the crimes that landed them in prison. However, things are going wrong.......

Meanwhile political prisoners are also being sprung and appearing on the other side of the world. The secret service need a man to intercept the plan, and no other than Chavasse is selected.

It is decided that he must be placed in a cell with a villain call Youngblood, he robbed a train along with 2 others that have already escaped and not found. In order to get in there Paul must assume a new identity as Paul Drummond and commit an actual crime.....

There is plenty of action as you would expect from a Higgins book, and plenty of twists.

5 Stars!!!

No Sanctuary - Richard Laymon ****

My second book by the author, the first being Island. It follows the same sort of style, plenty of blood, guts and rape…. Not for the easily offended.

The novel is almost split into two separate stories that come together near the close of the book. It is written in almost alternating chapters, and this works well at building up the suspense.

The first story follows Rick and his girlfriend Bert. He has agreed to go on a hiking holiday but failed to tell her about an incident in his past that increases his paranoia about bad things happening the further they get from civilisation. Along the way they encounter crazed preachers, a group of lads and lesbian campers…..

The second story follows Gillian. She likes to take her holidays by breaking into rich peoples houses while they are on vacation and using their facilities (in particular the bath). Unluckily for her the next person she does this to is a serial killer who likes taking his victims far out into the wilderness where he rapes and kills them.

A nice book where the pages just flew by, not recommended for everyone, but I can’t wait to check out more of Laymon’s works.

Smokescreen - Dick Francis ****

I've always been a bit put off picking up a book by this author as I have little interest in horseracing, but I bought it as part of a boxset of thrillers, and as it is only 265 pages thought I would give it a go.

Edward Lincoln (Linc to his friends) is a successful movie star. Surrounded by family and friends he is an intensely private person, rarely giving interviews and failing to provide the media with opportunities to scutinise him.

An elderly dying friend asks him to visit her recently bequeathed racing horses in South Africa and find out the reason why they have been doing so badly in the races. However when he gets there various attempts are made on his life, which make reality mirror the fiction of the movies.

A nice little read that made the pages fly by. Written in the 1st person we follow the protagonist’s thoughts and feeling not just on the plot but also opinions on the movie industry and media in general. There are a number of twists in the plot and enough to keep the reader interested without any confusion.

I will definitely check out some more books by Dick Francis.

The Call of the Wild - Jack London *****

My third book by the author, and a possible reread (I remember some parts but not sure if I ever finished it).

Basically the tale tells the life of Buck ( a Saint Bernard-Scotch shepherd dog) and the life he leads.

At times harrowing, we follow Buck as he is stolen from a comfortable life and sold as a sledge dog. He rediscovers the primordial instinct for survival and endures all hardships put upon him. This includes being beaten by humans, driven to near death on the sledge and still having to fight for mastery over his fellows canines.

Not exactly a light-hearted read with death on nearly every page, but an excellent representation of the attitudes of the early 20th century and the will to survive.

Would I recommend it? Everytime.
Would I reread it? One day.
Am I glad I read it? Definitely

First Steps in Winemaking - C.J.J. Berry *****

A neat little book that takes the reader into the art of winemaking. The author introduces the basics and clearly shows the steps required in order to make a cracking bottle.

The recipes are split down into months of the year so you will always find something to make.

My favourites so far are the Plum and Rice/Raisin.

I started making wine at the beginning of the year and bought a few books. However, this is the only one I tend to look at.

Death of Albert Johnson, Mad Trapper of Rat River - F W Anderson ****

I bought this book after watching the film Death Hunt with Charles Bronson. It is based loosely on this book.

Albert Johnson (the name he gave to local trading stores) is an illusive figure, turning up on the rat river in Canada. A trapper by trade, the local mounties were asked to contact him after some local indians had their taps tampered with.

However, when the mounties turned up at his cabin a firefight ensued which saw Johnson tracked across hundreds of miles of frozen landscape by man, dog and aeroplane.

A well written book with the story being told from more than one point of view, also has a number of diagrams and pictures to help the reader.

A Fine Night for Dying - Jack Higgins *****

Higgins last book featuring the super spy Paul Chavasse :(

A gangster is wrapped in chains and thrown overboard in the English channel, a few weeks later his bloated body is dragged to the surface by a trawler.

The secret service know that people are being brought into the country illegaly, they just don't know by who or how....

Paul is sent undercover, posing as an Australian who desperately needs to get into England. He is soon put into the right track and his passage secured.

Things are not as they seem when he is put aboard the boat, somehow there is a chinese connection and things take a more sinister turn.

Another cracking, if somewhat short read, from the action master.

Blood Meridian - Cormac Mccarthy ***

I was really looking forward to reading this book, I have previously read nearly all of McCarthy’s novels and really enjoyed them. Was really looking forward to this book with its enticing storyline of scalp hunters....

Unfortunately I just couldn't get into the book at all, as I have said I have read several McCarthy novels before so knew exactly what to expect regarding the language and punctuation etc....

The main problem I had what that I just didn't care about any of the characters enough to wade through the prose in order to find out their own particular view on the world. When the action came it was thick and fast, leaving me wanting more, but it was just over too quick.

Once again the usage of Spanish in the book really got on my nerves. Especially when the jugglers were reading the fortune of the men. I really don't see why I should have to Google whole sentences from a book just to find out what they mean.

The storyline and speech in this novel I found to be very disjointed and often had to reread a page or so to gather my bearings. Again, this is something I have had to do with his other works, but usually when I finish a book of his I feel rewarded for the struggle. Not this time though, I was very glad to see it finished.

Having said all that the book did have many redeeming features and I suppose was sometimes worth the constant onslaught of confusion.

I know I am definitely in the minority regarding my opinion, but anyone new to McCarthy I would not recommend starting here.

Happy Holidays!!

The Slender Reed - John W Cassell *****

Edward Cranford appears to have all a man could wish for at first glance, a gorgeous wife, loving family and a flourishing career (which has resulted in a recent promotion to District Attorney).

However, in the world of small town politics things are not at as they first appear.

Seeing first hand the corruption around him Cranford has to decide whether or not to take a stand against it, but in doing so he has to risk everything that he holds dear. Sucked into the dark underbelly of crime investigation is he able to stand up for law and order and come out unscathed? Or must he fall in with the establishment and destroy the morals he has so long stood for?

Urioste Springs has more than its fair share of shady characters but none so much as the Chief of Police. Here we are presented with a man who will stop at nothing to retain his iron grip, whether this is through defamation or murder. Some of the tactics used will make the reader stop and think how they and their family would react in the same circumstances. Sobering thoughts indeed.........
Accompanied by powerful friends and colleagues anyone who stands in his way are crushed or forced out of their position only to be replaced by his ‘paid’ help. In his hands the townsfolk are controlled like giant chess pieces eager to do his bidding for reward and advancement.

The subtitle to the book promises us 'a saga of greed and vengeance', and this is what Cassell expertly delivers. The action is fast paced and the pages fly by. The most interesting part for me was the insight allowed into the American justice system of the early 80's (something the author has personal experience of). It is nice to hear how things worked from a witness of the times and not some B rated movie on TV.

I have read several books by Cassell previously and always wait for each new offering with a sort of excitement I usually only get with bestselling authors. If you are looking for a read with gritty realism and more than its fair share of action then give this a try, and once you've enjoyed it then check out Cassell’s back catalogue. I can wholeheartedly recommend the Uncertain Paradise series.

The Last Place God Made - Jack Higgins *****

A different setting to many of Higgins usual novels, although fans will still be glad to see the usual type of characters and plenty of killing....

The book follows the adventures of Neil Mallory, a pilot for hire in the Brazilian Jungle he is saved from a crash site by Sam Hannah.

Hannah was an ace in the First World War but now with no adventure in his life he is turned into an alcoholic, brawling, swindler who thinks only of himself.

Hannah enlists Mallory as a pilot delivering mail and goods to outposts in the area.

All around the Huma Indian tribe are massacring the white man. Only Mallory can see things from their point of view. When a holy order of the sisters of pity is slaughtered Mallory finds that 2 are unaccounted for.

When the missing nun’s sister turns up (an up and coming MGM film star) they request help to try and rescue the nuns or recover the bodies.

What happens next is a lot of violence, varied deaths and testosterone by the bucket load..... just the way it should be.

For 2012's effort:

http://www.librarything.com/topic/129358

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