Wednesday, October 05, 2011

What I've Been Reading

A big thank you to everyone who commented on my post on Monday. It was a big decision for me, and I was thrilled to have loads of people chiming in with their support! I was also on the Writer's Guide to E-Publication yesterday, talking about my decision-making process. It's a great site for anyone wanting to learn more about the world of self-publishing. Check it out if you have an interest -- I'll be there every Tuesday.

And if you're looking for a new blog buddy, head over to Coffee with Marcie and say hi! She's new to the blogosphere.

It's been a while since I've done some book reviews here, so I figured I'd do a little update on some books I've read recently.

  Following the Whispers - Creating a life of inner peace and self-acceptance from the depths of despairFollowing the Whispers - Creating a life of inner peace and self-acceptance from the depths of despair by Karen Walker
With a frankness and honesty, Karen Walker details her life from childhood to adult, revealing how she overcomes great obstacles to reach personal acceptance. Told in a clear, matter-of-fact manner (no self pity anywhere to be seen!), one can't help but be pulled into this brave and forthright memoir. Definitely worth a read.

InvisibleInvisible by Jeanne Bannon
Written in a fresh and fun voice, 'Invisible' by Jeanne Bannon tells the story of overweight misfit Lola, who has the uncanny ability to become invisible at any given moment. The story moves along at a swift pace, and I enjoyed watching Lola learn to accept herself -- and deal with the temptation of revenge. A very enjoyable read.

The ArrangerThe Arranger by L.J. Sellers
'The Arranger' is my first LJ Sellers novel, and given how impressed I was with this futuristic, fast-paced narrative, it certainly won't be my last!

I was fascinated by Sellers' creation of a national competition called The Gauntlet, kind of a ramped-up version of a military obstacle course. Add one ex-cop who's older and tougher than the other competitors and throw in a lot of intrigue, and you have the makings for a fantastic thriller.

Can't wait to read more of Sellers!

Backpacked: A Reluctant Trip Across Central AmericaBackpacked: A Reluctant Trip Across Central America by Catherine Ryan Howard
I read and loved 'Mousetrapped', so when I heard Catherine had a new book out, I couldn't wait to dive in. I wasn't disappointed -- Catherine takes the same dry wit and self-deprecating humour along for the ride in 'Backpacked', the story of her travels through South America. From nearly falling off a horse on a vertical volcano ride to a a bevvy of eccentric -- and sometimes downright threatening -- characters along the way, reading this travelogue made me feel like I'd gone on the journey myself. Highly recommended for anyone who loves reading about the extremes of exploration without actually having to endure the discomfort.

CLOCKWISECLOCKWISE by Elle Strauss
'Clockwise' by Elle Strauss is a fun, fresh read. Featuring an awkward teenage girl who accidentally time travels, the novel follows her adventures as she struggles to cope with both the past and the present -- and drags her crush along with her! The narrator's voice is sharp and witty, and you can't help identifying with her insecurities. A fantastic read for anyone, adolescent or adult.

House of DiamondsHouse of Diamonds by Karen Jones Gowen
House of Diamonds follows two sisters. One is on her way to achieving her dream of being a writer, despite the chaos in her busy household and her frequently absent husband. The other is struggling to keep it together whilst her newborn clings to life in the hospital. Author Karen Jones Gowen plunges readers into the daily details of each household, holding us at close range and never letting go. The intensity of emotion -- from frustration and fear to joy and faith -- is palpable throughout. Although generally I'm not big into 'faith' novels, Gowen weaves this into the narrative in a natural and subtle way, and it added to the fabric of the families' life.

Have you read any of these? Have a great Wednesday, everyone!

36 comments:

  1. I have read and am reading a lot of these books as well and I agree with you on your book reviews. Can't wait to get to the others.

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  2. Hi there, thanks for the mention, Talli, and the follow of my blog.I followed you back and then somehow I followed myself...doh!

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  3. I'm hearing more and more about self-publishing, and am so interested in following your new journey Talli, thanks for sharing it here. And for the book reviews too :)

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  4. Those books sound great. I would love to read the first one if I could ever find the time.

    I'm currently reading a romantic suspense published by a friend of mine. the books is good but I don't have much time to read anymore.

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  5. Thanks for highlighting these books, which are all new to me! look forward to reading your weekly blog.

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  6. It's always enjoy recommendations, thank you for these - a couple will join my teetering pile TBRs!

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  7. I have Clockwise on my PC, but I haven't read it yet. Looks like I'm missing out. Great reviews.

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  8. And guess who I'm meeting in the flesh today? Karen Walker :o) she's here on holiday!

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  9. Hoooorah for your fab book reviews!!! Blimey - you've read loads - and all good ones - yay for fab KarenG!! Take care
    x

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  10. Hi Talli .. your journey into the publishing world is fascinating to watch .. great to have more information to dwell on.

    I've got both the Karens' books here .. and I'm so looking forward to reading and I see below that Jessica is meeting up with Karen W today!

    Great fun following the books, publishing and meetings around .. cheers Hilary

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  11. I thought Following the Whispers was a very brave book. Thanks for the other reviews. I'll have to check them out.

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  12. I am sitting here Amazon-ing all of these - except the ones I already know, of course! I love book posts, I always find some gems :-)

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  13. Karen is an amazing writer. That memoir is incredibly immediate.

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  14. What a fun list! I'll have to look for that Backpacked book--sounds like an awesome read!

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  15. ooh, i like travelogues, but don't get a chance to read many of them (my last one was No Touch Monkey, which i loved). I'll definitely have to check this one out. Thanks!

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  16. Yes, wow, what a big decision on going for self-pubbing. But it helps that you have a couple of other books under your belt, and a loyal fan base. :)

    Thanks for the reviews--I always am amazed at how many Goodreads updates that come through detailing how MANY books you've read! You put me to shame, woman. ;o)

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  17. Excellent book reviews. I'll try to read some of these--they sound quite good!

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  18. I love your reading stack, great looking books in there! Elle's book, Clockwise, is on my list of books to read too!

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  19. I've read Karen's book - it's five-star excellent!

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  20. Thanks for helping me update my reading list! I envy you for managing your time so well! I don't know how you could find an extra minute to read! Julie

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  21. Great suggested reading! My kindle is loaded and I can't wait to start them....after I finish WILLOW;))

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  23. I think I've got an understanding of the basics of self-pubbing except for marketing.

    Do you know any good grassroots sites about marketing fiction books? Readings and library offers are not an option where I live (nowhereville).

    Marketing info seems to be non-fiction oriented or not helpful to those of us in the middle of non-urban area.

    Tirz

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  24. Thanks for the reviews. Yet more to add to my groaning pile :-)

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  25. I've heard of a couple of them. I'll have to check out the others.

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  26. Since you recommend them, I'll have to check them out!

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  27. Cool reviews - I like the sound of "The Arranger", and "Invisible". Yet more to add to the list! Thanks :)

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  28. I received a copy of The Arranger the other day after winning it on Alex's blog. It sounds interesting and I'm anxious to read it. I still want to finish A Handmaids Tale first--it's been slow-going for me.


    Lee
    Tossing It Out

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  29. ooo... another Invisible rec. Interesting... And I have read Clockwise, obvs. Loved it. I've got Uncut Diamonds on my Kindle, but I'm so behind on the reading. Must catch up! W3 is also waiting~ <3

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  30. Goodness... Now I have to update my "to read" list.

    Self publishing... Way to be brave Talli. I'll be cheering on from here. I used to be deeply opposed to this idea, until I read a wonderful self pubbed book that really opened my eyes. Who needs all the pats on the back along the way (editors, agents etc) when you have a truly stellar work to begin with?

    I'll be watching your journey most intently.

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  31. Yay! More books to add to my GoodReads! Can't wait to read Backpacked.

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  32. You've got an impressive reading list going there.

    Great to hear that you're on the eBook trail to publication. I'm just starting on that journey and finding out there's a lot to do. Very exciting, though and worth the effort.

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  33. Many of these books appeal to me! I also read Karen Walker's book and was quite taken with it. Very emotional.

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  34. I'm always looking for authors I've not read before. Thanks for offering a nice selection from which to choose. My Kindle will be busy!

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  35. I would like to read Backpacked after your review! Shhhh, don;t tell Chris I'm going to buy another book!

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Coffee and wine for all!