What I've Been Reading

I promise I haven't entirely neglected the blog..there's about a half dozen articles and reviews typed out on my computer that I keep stalling on because I can't find the way to say what I actually want to say, if that makes sense. In the meantime, I'm going to follow some advice I heard a while back: if something's worth doing 100%, sometimes it's better to do it 80% than 0% if you can't quite muster full strength. So, here's my 80% post with some thoughts on my recent reads:

Children of the Blood Moon Trilogy

I just finished off this trilogy that I started reading over a year ago. It's an interesting Christian fantasy trilogy that, even if a little heavy handed on prophecies and special powers at times, is worth the read. S.D. Grimm manages to weave a tale that's well balanced with regard to action, character development, and a bit of romance. I look forward to reading more of her books in the future as her writing style continues to develop. Overall, I'd give the trilogy 4/5 stars. (Review of Book 1).

1984

This dystopian classic has been on my radar for a while now; it wasn't exactly on my personal reading list because I wanted to read it (I knew it was depressing), but because I feel it's one of those books that you should read if you claim to be a reader. While I don't think it's something I'll be inclined to re-read anytime soon, I'm glad I did finally pick it up. The story was less horrifying for its ending than its startling parallels to the 21st century--the best way to keep people missing holes in their logic is to keep them shouting about something. Stir up enough emotion and you can have them change which enemy they're facing and completely ignore objective truth. Not a light read, nor for those looking for a clean book, but nevertheless worthwhile to chew on for a bit. 

Rome: A History in Seven Sackings

This was a pure impulse buy; whenever I travel somewhere and find a local bookstore, I feel it's my bookish duty to support them. It's another volume that I won't be rereading for a while, but intriguing in its own right. If you have a general interest in history or in Rome in particular, the author's description of Rome's architecture and culture through the centuries through the lens of seven invasions was captivating enough to get me through the whole volume. 

Kiss of Deception 

My family generally tries to pick me up a new series every Christmas; this was one such book and may eventually make a full appearance on the blog. Although a little heavy-handed on the romance, it was an enjoyable read and I plan on continuing in the series. 

Upcoming

I'm looking forward to reading the very-long awaited Forsaken Continent by Wayne Thomas Batson. This third installment of the Myridian Constellation (formerly the Dark Sea Annals) is slated to arrive at my door in paperback on my birthday this week, which is pretty much the best bookish present I could ask for. 

As far as other long-expected books go, I'm working up the courage to open my copy of The Fall of Gondolin. It's the last Tolkien book to be released--probably ever--so it'll take the perfect day to read it. However, I'll probably tackle it just in time for the Tolkien biography movie set to be released in May. 

Sequel Review: "Isle of Fire"

I didn't want to cheat you guys out of a fresh book this Friday, but I did want to share my thoughts on Isle of Fire, sequel to Isle of Swords by Wayne Thomas Batson. Hope you enjoy, and I'll see you back here Friday for a fresh book! 

I'd love to hear your feedback regarding how I should handle sequels and series. 

The Short:

Isle of Fire

(Sequel to Isle of Swords)

By:

Wayne Thomas Batson

5/5 Stars

What: The pirate crew of the Bruce seeks out other pirates to join forces with them in ridding the seas of more dangerous criminals; Cat must come to grips with his past; The Brethren seek to eliminate The Merchant, a dangerous arms dealer.

Recommended to those who like: Pirates, sword fights, sailing, more historical setting, Christian themes

Not recommended for those who dislike: Some gruesome scenes (PG 13)

The Long:

                If you have not read the first book, be warned! Spoilers ahead!

                

This book is a well thought out sequel to Isle of Swords. Unlike so many sequels, it manages to continue character development, keep the stakes high, and still be a well-rounded story. If you enjoyed the first novel, you’ll certainly enjoy this one!

                

In the book, Cat must come to grips with having Bartholomew Thorne as his father. And now he realizes that it is not certain that his father is dead. Faced with this past, troubling memories, and fits of violence that he has difficulty controlling, much of the book is spent following his inner journey. When he is asked by the Brethren to seek out the notorious arms dealer known as the Merchant, he accepts.

                

Meanwhile, Captain Ross and the crew of the Bruce face disbandment by England. Together with Commodore Blake, they must find ways to defeat enemies new and old.

                

As in the first book, we have plenty of cannonfire, colorful side characters, and duels. Violence, love element, and historical elements are comparable to the first book.

              

I would highly recommend this sequel. It has a satisfying ending and the series does not appear to continue.

If you’ve read the book, feel free to share your thoughts below. Please remember to be respectful of Mr. Batson and his work, as well as other commentators. I also welcome comments on what you would like to see included in the reviews. I reserve the right to remove vulgar, hateful, or rude remarks from the comments. Thanks for sharing!

Friday Fiction Fix: "Isle of Swords"

The Short:

Isle of Swords

By: Wayne Thomas Batson

5/5 Stars

What: A pirate searches for a lost treasure to get out of the sweet trade; his daughter wants nothing more than to become a captain in her own right; a man awakes on a beach with no memories.

Recommended to those who like: Christian-centered fiction, pirates, sailing, somewhat historical setting, adventure.

Not recommended to those who dislike: Some gruesome scenes (akin to PG 13 rating at times)

The Long:

                In recent years, Wayne Thomas Batson has become one of my favorite Christian speculative fiction authors. Not one to shy away from some darker plotlines, his stories are colorful and rich. Isle of Swords is no exception.

                If you liked The Pirates of the Caribbean, this book would probably suit your tastes. The book does have a Christian element to it, but is fairly realistic and does not overwhelm the plot. The story is not set in a separate universe, but rather at an unspecified point in the past. It does not bear the hallmarks of a traditional historical novel (if you like adventure stories, you’ll still like this one).

                Throughout the story, we follow the adventures of Captain Declan Ross and his daughter, Anne, who seek the treasure of Constantine to be free from piracy—a profession the captain was forced into by circumstances. Anne, however, is perfectly content to be a pirate and often clashes over this with her father. They must also avoid Captain Bartholomew Thorne, a ruthless pirate who will stop at nothing to gain the treasure for himself and to get revenge on Captain Ross.

                The story is filled with colorful side characters fitting a pirate book, as well as “Cat”, a young man who awakes on an island with no memories. The writing is great and well-paced, making this book a nice read for an afternoon or two. I’m excited to be starting the sequel soon!

If you’ve read the book, feel free to share your thoughts below. Please remember to be respectful of Mr. Batson and his work, as well as other commentators. I also welcome comments on what you would like to see included in the reviews. I reserve the right to remove vulgar, hateful, or rude remarks from the comments. Thanks for sharing!