The Bookshelf – Page 19

Discovering H.M. Hoover

Our library was giving a bunch of books away free, so of course I grabbed a big bag and dug in.Â While I’m always on the lookout for new reading material for myself or the kids, I also had an alternative motive–get books that might get meÂ credit on paperback swap! But amongst my gleanings wasÂ a

Christmas Books and Review of Elantris

28DecemberSuzanneHome in the Rookery, The Bookshelf

My loving family knows just what I like–books and more books.Â Some highlights were the book about China which isÂ stuffed full of photographs and the collection of Traditional Chinese Stories.Â The giant book of world maps from throughout history will be a long-time favorite.Â Then there were a couple of fantasy novels, a historical book

Bitterwood

2AugustSuzanne7 CommentsNewsy Bits About Writing and Writers, The Bookshelf

I’ve been interested in reading Bitterwood for a while now.Â IÂ enjoy James Maxey’s blog, and we have mutual friends who’ve recommended Bitterwood. But I stopped talking about reading it and finally read it because I don’t want to sound like a dweeb if I run into James Maxey at Trinoc this weekend. So what did

Big Picture Baen Review

30JuneSuzanneThe Bookshelf

My overall take on Jim Baen’s Universe was quite positive.Â I think I can safely say that every story had its strong points to think on, and every story engaged me as a reader.Â Most the stories went well beyond that feeble praise, however.Â I’ll not belabor this point, since I have already reviewed each

Baen Review: Introducing Spots

30JuneSuzanne5 CommentsThe Bookshelf

The Men in the Mirror, by Steve Ray* A well-told tale of alternate time travel, this story was engaging and carefully plotted.Â I occasionally found theÂ descriptions long-winded, but they were also poetic.Â Some nitpics: In the first scene it is clear from the pov character’s reaction to his older self that he’s not met Chuck

Baen Review: Rebecca Lickiss and J. Simon

29JuneSuzanne1 CommentThe Bookshelf

Gnome Improvement, by Rebecca Lickiss. Short Review: This delightful story will have you checking your garden dragon for a slight change in position and going in search of a lawn gnome to purchase.Â Winsome and humorous by turns, this story feels like a modern fairy tale or fable in disguise. Long Reveiw: While there is

Baen Review: Jon Skovron and Jason D. Whittman

29JuneSuzanne1 CommentThe Bookshelf

Baby Girl, by Jon Skovron Short Reveiw: Not your typical ‘to hell and back’ piece, this story was a little slow in the begining, but creative and fun.Â Who knew the devil had good parenting advice? Long Review: I found this story more intriguing than interesting, if you’ll allow me to split hairs.Â The writer

Protection Money, by Wen Spencer

27JuneSuzanneThe Bookshelf

Protection Money, by Wen Spencer Short Review: A well fleshed-outÂ world and tough characters bring this story to life.Â Gritty by turns yet emotionally touching, I found it a very enjoyable read. Long Review: The truth is, I’m trying not to gush.Â The depth of the world-creation is very impressive, and the characters will live on

Baen Review: Power of Illusion, by Christopher Anvil

26JuneSuzanneThe Bookshelf

Power of Illusion, by Christopher Anvil Short Review: As a fitting final story to the Sci Fi portion of the zine and a bridge introduction to the fantasy portion, this story draws strongly on the heritage of both genres.Â WithÂ realistic characterization, a good sub-plot, and impressive use of all the senses to create a vivid

Baen Review: Barbara J. Ferrenz and Edward M Lerner