fourteen

The Charlemagne Pursuit by Steve Berry. This was a bit of a first for me. The first time I read one of his books instead of listening to it. I am a huge fan of Scott Brick and Paul Michael's narrations. For some reason, even though I heard the voice in my head, I did not enjoy this as much as the others. I think I will have to listen to it. I found much of the details frustrating and the action stilted. It is hard to compare the experience, as I have not read a hard copy of his other books. I also found the premise of this book more contrived than the others. I would not recommend this one, but highly recommend The Templar Legacy.

Lucky 13

I went with vampires and werewolves for lucky number 13, ok not really, but it's a funny coincidence. Eclipse by Stephanie Meyer. I have noticed that the writing seems to be improving as the story moves along. I am enjoying the way all the characters are evolving (except Bella, who doesn't seem to grow). I am also very grateful that KG put me onto the leaked partial novel from Edward's point of view. I have much more understanding and sympathy for his character.

And I am excited because I found a copy of The Charlemagne Pursuit by Steve Berry at the library. It just jumped the queue.

12

The Temptation of the Night Jasmine by Lauren Willig is another amusing romp around her world of Napoleonic Era Spies. If you're a fan of the series, this will not disappoint (excepting the absence of the Pink Carnation). I would not start with this book though, the series needs to be read in order. I enjoyed the female lead, her matter-of-factness contrasted well with the other characters who were prone to dramatics. Plus, she was named Charlotte.

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I don't mind that you forgot/didn't have time, but I won't feel guilty that I didn't.

eleven

Dogs and Goddesses by Jennifer Crusie, Anne Stuart, Lani Diane Rich. I was interested to read this not because of the subject matter (which is riduculous) but because Jennifer Crusie's books make me laugh out loud and her collaborations with Bob Mayer are superfun. I was concerned that with three authors the distinct voices would be jarring but it seems that they confined their voices to the three main characters and had a fantastic editor. The premise is ridiculous and the action moves along very quickly and not a thought is given to credibility. I liked it and will probably read another if they collaborate again.

dieci

Blood Ties Book One: The Turning by Jennifer Armintrout (audiobook from audible), this was enjoyable. I'm not sure how much patience I would have had if I had been reading a hardcopy. I'm sure I would have skipped significant portions. The characters were likeable, if some of their actions were ridiculous, and I found the motivations behind the conflicts credible.

I am of course now stuck because I will have to read the rest of the books. I cannot leave a series unfinished. February might have a decidedly otherworldly bent, since Eclipse is sitting on my shelf taunting me.

neuf

Card Sharks by Liz Maverick. I think there was a reason I got it from the 4 books for $10 table. Not great writing, not great characters but I really like poker and I really like fiction. It took about 2 hours to read. I did not read every page and do not feel like I missed anything. I did like the ending.