Tammy H. has already mentioned The Strain, by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan. Here's another endorsement from a library staff member:
I've just finished reading the The Strain by Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan and I must say I really loved it. After I finished reading it, I realized that this is how vampires are supposed to be - SCARY! They only see humans as a means for their survival and their goal is to finally conquer the human race. Literally, they're out for blood. So much for brooding, sexy vampires with feelings!
--Greta N.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Let's Talk About It!
Interested in checking out one of the library’s book clubs in July? Here’s the list:
July 14, North Regional Branch:
What really happened to the Bethany girls 30 years ago? Were they actually kidnapped and murdered? NRL’s book group, the McArthur Road Irregulars, will deal with problems of identity, in both pre- and post-DNA-testing eras, as they discuss What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman. To learn more, call 822-1998.
July 14, East Regional Branch:
Join “East of the River: the Book Club” as they discuss The Beach House by Jane Green. This captivating novel about the strength of family, friendship, and self-discovery is a great summer read. For more information, call 485-2955.
July 27, Headquarters Library:
The Great Books Discussion Group will be talking about “The Open Boat,” considered by many to be Stephen Crane’s best short story. Copies of the story and discussion questions are available at the Information Desk, HQU. Learn more by calling 483-7727, x204.
Even if you don’t join us for any of these discussions, keep on reading – and keep on filling out your reading logs for the Summer Reading Club, which wraps up on July 31.The more logs you complete, the more chances you’ll have in the drawing for the grand prize, a gift card to a local bookstore. And your attendance at any of these programs counts as one book read!
--Nora
July 14, North Regional Branch:
What really happened to the Bethany girls 30 years ago? Were they actually kidnapped and murdered? NRL’s book group, the McArthur Road Irregulars, will deal with problems of identity, in both pre- and post-DNA-testing eras, as they discuss What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman. To learn more, call 822-1998.
July 14, East Regional Branch:
Join “East of the River: the Book Club” as they discuss The Beach House by Jane Green. This captivating novel about the strength of family, friendship, and self-discovery is a great summer read. For more information, call 485-2955.
July 27, Headquarters Library:
The Great Books Discussion Group will be talking about “The Open Boat,” considered by many to be Stephen Crane’s best short story. Copies of the story and discussion questions are available at the Information Desk, HQU. Learn more by calling 483-7727, x204.
Even if you don’t join us for any of these discussions, keep on reading – and keep on filling out your reading logs for the Summer Reading Club, which wraps up on July 31.The more logs you complete, the more chances you’ll have in the drawing for the grand prize, a gift card to a local bookstore. And your attendance at any of these programs counts as one book read!
--Nora
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Science Fiction/Fantasy Panel in Cary
Hey all!
Anyone out there a fan of Science Fiction or Fantasy? Head on up to the Barnes and Noble in Cary on Tuesday, June 23rd at 7pm for a Science Fiction and Fantasy Panel. James Maxey (author of the Dragon Age series- book one is Bitterwood), David Drake (author of When the Tide Rises), Lisa Shearin (author of the Raine Benares series- book one is Magic Lost, Trouble Found), and Mark Van Name (author of Overthrowing Heaven) will all be there for a discussion of the genres, with book signings afterwards.
The Barnes and Noble is across from the Carytowne Center Mall. The address is 760 SE Maynard. Call (919) 467-3866 for more information.
Head on up for a night of lively discussion from some of the best voices in the genre!
--Jenn C.
Anyone out there a fan of Science Fiction or Fantasy? Head on up to the Barnes and Noble in Cary on Tuesday, June 23rd at 7pm for a Science Fiction and Fantasy Panel. James Maxey (author of the Dragon Age series- book one is Bitterwood), David Drake (author of When the Tide Rises), Lisa Shearin (author of the Raine Benares series- book one is Magic Lost, Trouble Found), and Mark Van Name (author of Overthrowing Heaven) will all be there for a discussion of the genres, with book signings afterwards.
The Barnes and Noble is across from the Carytowne Center Mall. The address is 760 SE Maynard. Call (919) 467-3866 for more information.
Head on up for a night of lively discussion from some of the best voices in the genre!
--Jenn C.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Twists and Turns in Swedish Thriller
I love mysteries, but lately they’ve been getting predictable. If I read even one more tale of a sadistic serial killer preying on defenseless children and young women, pursued by a successful but tormented female detective and her gruff but heroic male sidekick, I may throw the book in disgust. You know the ones — they fairly wallow in the angst, the carnage, the ever-increasing depravity — and is there actually some crime-solving or plot twist in there somewhere? Then, inevitably, the villain sets his sights on the poor female detective, until the sidekick sweeps in for a last-minute rescue.
Hello, writers: formula is for romance novels. Gratuitous violence is no substitute for genuine intrigue. And neurosis is not character development.
Thankfully, the latest book by Swedish author Steig Larsson is anything but predictable. The Girl Who Played With Fire, due out in July, follows the same characters as his 2008 bestseller The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Journalist Mikael Blomkvist is working with two other writers to break a major story about sex trafficking of teen girls, but on the eve of its publication his colleagues are found shot to death. No link is apparent between them and the brilliant but unpredictable super-hacker Lisbeth Salander — yet her fingerprints are found on the murder weapon. Blomkvist is convinced that Salander did not commit the murders (though “innocent” is not a word he would apply to her) but she has disappeared, and he is far from the only one searching for her.
This book is well-crafted and detailed. Usually when a person says, “I finished it all in one night!” it’s a sign of praise, of a can’t-put-down book. I’m a fast reader and finish almost every book in a night or two, but this one took me several days, by choice. It was long and detailed enough to savor. The details aren’t fluffy character descriptions, either, but complex bits of narrative that flesh out the story in unexpected ways. That thing about Fermat’s Theory? Not relevant to the plot but it gives the reader an example of how Salander’s mind works. In addition, Larsson’s writing style is descriptive, with a pace that builds throughout the novel. Scenes of violence or sex are not gratuitous but are described vividly.
My favorite part about this book is Lisbeth Salander. She has a photographic memory, probable Asperger’s syndrome, and a dark and twisted past. She is legally classified “non compos mentis” and under guardianship, yet she is the most efficient researcher Milton Security has ever hired. Her concept of justice has little to do with any recognized legal system. She is being hunted by the police, assorted villains, and Blomkvist himself, and manages to stay hidden. In contrast, I feel that Blomkvist is not quite as well developed in this book as Salander. His primary purpose as a character is to give Salander an ally, one who is not in hiding and who has access to the official murder investigation. To more clearly understand the relationship between the two characters, I recommend readers start with the first book, which fills in the gaps in their history.
The Girl Who Played With Fire is an excellent choice for mystery fans who like a more complex read. It’s more Lee Child or Jeffrey Deaver than Janet Evanovich. It will appeal to readers who like strong female characters or investigative journalists. Just remember: to get the most out of this book, read the other one first.
--Tiffany H.
Hello, writers: formula is for romance novels. Gratuitous violence is no substitute for genuine intrigue. And neurosis is not character development.
Thankfully, the latest book by Swedish author Steig Larsson is anything but predictable. The Girl Who Played With Fire, due out in July, follows the same characters as his 2008 bestseller The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Journalist Mikael Blomkvist is working with two other writers to break a major story about sex trafficking of teen girls, but on the eve of its publication his colleagues are found shot to death. No link is apparent between them and the brilliant but unpredictable super-hacker Lisbeth Salander — yet her fingerprints are found on the murder weapon. Blomkvist is convinced that Salander did not commit the murders (though “innocent” is not a word he would apply to her) but she has disappeared, and he is far from the only one searching for her.
This book is well-crafted and detailed. Usually when a person says, “I finished it all in one night!” it’s a sign of praise, of a can’t-put-down book. I’m a fast reader and finish almost every book in a night or two, but this one took me several days, by choice. It was long and detailed enough to savor. The details aren’t fluffy character descriptions, either, but complex bits of narrative that flesh out the story in unexpected ways. That thing about Fermat’s Theory? Not relevant to the plot but it gives the reader an example of how Salander’s mind works. In addition, Larsson’s writing style is descriptive, with a pace that builds throughout the novel. Scenes of violence or sex are not gratuitous but are described vividly.
My favorite part about this book is Lisbeth Salander. She has a photographic memory, probable Asperger’s syndrome, and a dark and twisted past. She is legally classified “non compos mentis” and under guardianship, yet she is the most efficient researcher Milton Security has ever hired. Her concept of justice has little to do with any recognized legal system. She is being hunted by the police, assorted villains, and Blomkvist himself, and manages to stay hidden. In contrast, I feel that Blomkvist is not quite as well developed in this book as Salander. His primary purpose as a character is to give Salander an ally, one who is not in hiding and who has access to the official murder investigation. To more clearly understand the relationship between the two characters, I recommend readers start with the first book, which fills in the gaps in their history.
The Girl Who Played With Fire is an excellent choice for mystery fans who like a more complex read. It’s more Lee Child or Jeffrey Deaver than Janet Evanovich. It will appeal to readers who like strong female characters or investigative journalists. Just remember: to get the most out of this book, read the other one first.
--Tiffany H.
Friday, June 12, 2009
(More) What I'm Reading
The Last Child, by John Hart
I've been a John Hart fan since his first novel, The King of Lies. The author recently spoke at the North Regional Branch and stated that he thought this novel was his best yet. I have to agree. If you haven't yet discovered John Hart, what are you waiting for? In Last Child, young girls are disappearing in an unnamed rural NC town and 12 year-old Johnny is determined to find his twin sister, who's among the missing. What he unearths is more sinister than anyone imagined, sending shock waves through the community and putting Johnny's own life in danger. This is an excellent read that I couldn't put down.
The Strain, by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan
Tired of sexy, sensitive vampires? Well, here's an alternative for you! From the creator of the Academy Award-winning Pan's Labyrinth, this novel reminded me of why vampires scared the heck out of me as a kid. The blurb says it all: They have always been here. Vampires. Nesting and Feeding. In secret and in darkness. Waiting. Now their time has come. In one week, Manhattan will be gone. In three months, the country. In six months -- the World. This is a great read -- it grabs you by the throat (pun intended) and doesn't let go. It's the first installment in a trilogy.
Relentless, by Dean Koontz
I've been a Koontz fan for years, but his recent novels were a disappointment. This novel reminded me why I am a fan. Relentless is a great read and fast-paced. Filled with quirky characters and a hint of the supernatural, it had me reading into the wee hours of the morning.
--Tammy H.
I've been a John Hart fan since his first novel, The King of Lies. The author recently spoke at the North Regional Branch and stated that he thought this novel was his best yet. I have to agree. If you haven't yet discovered John Hart, what are you waiting for? In Last Child, young girls are disappearing in an unnamed rural NC town and 12 year-old Johnny is determined to find his twin sister, who's among the missing. What he unearths is more sinister than anyone imagined, sending shock waves through the community and putting Johnny's own life in danger. This is an excellent read that I couldn't put down.
The Strain, by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan
Tired of sexy, sensitive vampires? Well, here's an alternative for you! From the creator of the Academy Award-winning Pan's Labyrinth, this novel reminded me of why vampires scared the heck out of me as a kid. The blurb says it all: They have always been here. Vampires. Nesting and Feeding. In secret and in darkness. Waiting. Now their time has come. In one week, Manhattan will be gone. In three months, the country. In six months -- the World. This is a great read -- it grabs you by the throat (pun intended) and doesn't let go. It's the first installment in a trilogy.
Relentless, by Dean Koontz
I've been a Koontz fan for years, but his recent novels were a disappointment. This novel reminded me why I am a fan. Relentless is a great read and fast-paced. Filled with quirky characters and a hint of the supernatural, it had me reading into the wee hours of the morning.
--Tammy H.
Monday, June 8, 2009
What I'm Reading
What better way to kick off the library's Summer Reading Program than a review of the things I'm currently reading? Over the weekend I finished a couple of books, one older, one new; tore through a memoir by a famous son of famous parents; and began a historical thriller.
--from 1997, Night in Eden, by Candice Proctor. Historical romance. Convicted and transported to New South Wales, Bryony Wentworth finds herself drawn to Hayden St. John, the enigmatic landowner who's arranged for her to be wet nurse to his infant son. It's been a while since I read a genre historical romance, and this one delivered on all the levels I expected it to.
--just published, Losing Mum and Pup: A Memoir. Christopher Buckley recalls the nine-month period between the deaths of his parents, William and Patricia Buckley. The author draws a very personal portrait of two complex and at times contradictory personalities. They loved each other to the end, but often didn't speak for weeks at a time. They were a glamorous couple, but Bill was "a bit of a slob," while Christopher never found Pat more beautiful than when she was gardening in jeans and an old T-shirt. You'll laugh; you'll cry. Don't miss the chapter where Christo tells his dying mother, "I forgive you."
--also just out, The Secret Speech, the follow-up novel to Tom Rob Smith's blockbuster debut Child 44. It's 1956 and the Soviet Union is beginning to loosen up just a fraction three years after the death of Stalin. Former secret policeman Leo Demidov struggles to adjust to new political and personal realities. I've just started this book (only on p. 28), but I have no doubt I'm going to relish this as much as I did Child 44.
What about you? What are you reading?
--Nora
--from 1997, Night in Eden, by Candice Proctor. Historical romance. Convicted and transported to New South Wales, Bryony Wentworth finds herself drawn to Hayden St. John, the enigmatic landowner who's arranged for her to be wet nurse to his infant son. It's been a while since I read a genre historical romance, and this one delivered on all the levels I expected it to.
--just published, Losing Mum and Pup: A Memoir. Christopher Buckley recalls the nine-month period between the deaths of his parents, William and Patricia Buckley. The author draws a very personal portrait of two complex and at times contradictory personalities. They loved each other to the end, but often didn't speak for weeks at a time. They were a glamorous couple, but Bill was "a bit of a slob," while Christopher never found Pat more beautiful than when she was gardening in jeans and an old T-shirt. You'll laugh; you'll cry. Don't miss the chapter where Christo tells his dying mother, "I forgive you."
--also just out, The Secret Speech, the follow-up novel to Tom Rob Smith's blockbuster debut Child 44. It's 1956 and the Soviet Union is beginning to loosen up just a fraction three years after the death of Stalin. Former secret policeman Leo Demidov struggles to adjust to new political and personal realities. I've just started this book (only on p. 28), but I have no doubt I'm going to relish this as much as I did Child 44.
What about you? What are you reading?
--Nora
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Meet the Authors - This Saturday
(Updated June 4)
Come one, come all to the library's Local Authors Showcase!
This Friends of the Library-sponsored event takes place on Saturday, June 6, from noon until 4:00PM at the Headquarters Library in downtown Fayetteville. Meet some of the region's homegrown writers, learn about their books, ask about their publishing experiences, and help us kick off our Adult Summer Reading Club.
Here's a tentative list of participating authors and their books:
- Timothy T. Ajani, Streams of Refreshing: Inspirational Poems for Our Time
- William Billings, From Cotton Field to University: A History of Methodist University 1956-2006
- Gloria Elliott, Chip the Silent Watchdog
- Pauline Hicks Chapman, Survived to Love
- Suzanne Farrior, Froggie Babies, The Hungry Little Bunny, and A Child's World from My Point of View
- Esther Fay Holcombe, A Young Woman’s Struggle and Delights in 1857 and The Intruder
-Margaret Jefferson, Fear to Faith: A Poetic Journey
-Charles Mathews, Charlie and GI's Best-kept Secret in the Far East
- Matthew McLean, A Bewitching Summer, Shame in a Small Town, and Locked Up Freed Busted
-Shirley McNeill, Exploring Sensational You: Helping Youth Develop Character
- Edna Moore, I Refuse To!
- William Pate, Survival of The Lost Colony, the Untold Story
-Suzetta Perkins, Behind the Veil, A Love So Deep, and EX-terminator: Life After Marriage
- Reginald Pinkney, Pass It On
- Catherine Poole, Bat Boy’s Crazy Day
-Marylou Berry Roche, Fun Golf Games for Women
- Hope Roten, Overthrone
- Janine Scott-Lowe, Reflections, Inspirations
--Nora A.
Come one, come all to the library's Local Authors Showcase!
This Friends of the Library-sponsored event takes place on Saturday, June 6, from noon until 4:00PM at the Headquarters Library in downtown Fayetteville. Meet some of the region's homegrown writers, learn about their books, ask about their publishing experiences, and help us kick off our Adult Summer Reading Club.
Here's a tentative list of participating authors and their books:
- Timothy T. Ajani, Streams of Refreshing: Inspirational Poems for Our Time
- William Billings, From Cotton Field to University: A History of Methodist University 1956-2006
- Gloria Elliott, Chip the Silent Watchdog
- Pauline Hicks Chapman, Survived to Love
- Suzanne Farrior, Froggie Babies, The Hungry Little Bunny, and A Child's World from My Point of View
- Esther Fay Holcombe, A Young Woman’s Struggle and Delights in 1857 and The Intruder
-Margaret Jefferson, Fear to Faith: A Poetic Journey
-Charles Mathews, Charlie and GI's Best-kept Secret in the Far East
- Matthew McLean, A Bewitching Summer, Shame in a Small Town, and Locked Up Freed Busted
-Shirley McNeill, Exploring Sensational You: Helping Youth Develop Character
- Edna Moore, I Refuse To!
- William Pate, Survival of The Lost Colony, the Untold Story
-Suzetta Perkins, Behind the Veil, A Love So Deep, and EX-terminator: Life After Marriage
- Reginald Pinkney, Pass It On
- Catherine Poole, Bat Boy’s Crazy Day
-Marylou Berry Roche, Fun Golf Games for Women
- Hope Roten, Overthrone
- Janine Scott-Lowe, Reflections, Inspirations
--Nora A.
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