Books

dark matter

Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

Dark Matter is a fast-paced science fiction/mystery/thriller of a book.  It is the story of Jason Dessen, a physics professor who had the possibility to make it big but decided to marry his girlfriend when she became pregnant with his child and settle down.  His life is good, if a … Read More

the reader

The Reader by Traci Chee

Sefia, the main character of The Reader, had a happy childhood and was loved by her parents and close to her Aunt.  However, they had prepared her a hiding place in case something bad happened.  One day assassins come and kill her parents and she goes into her secret room … Read More

smoke

Is Smoking Bad for You? Smoke by Dan Vyleta

Smoke by Dan Vyleta is one of Cindy’s favorites in our Hugo reading quest.  She spoke so highly of it that I thought I should read it also.  I started off with the first disk of the audiobook, but when that had to be returned to the library I continued … Read More

central station

Central Station by Lavie Tidhar

Central Station takes place in a Tel Aviv of the future…far enough into the future that humans now have colonies spread throughout the solar system.  Central Station is the dominant feature of Tel Aviv; a space elevator where flights arrive and depart from all over outer space, and, as such, … Read More

truth witch

Truthwitch by Susan Dennard

This young adult book was a great read and should satisfy teens and young-at-heart adults who yearn for adventure, humor, close calls and an engaging fast-actioned book set in an original and well-constructed world. Safiya is a Truthwitch.  She can tell when someone is telling the truth or lying, which … Read More

the jewel and her lapidary

The Jewel and Her Lapidary by Fran Wilde

Fran Wilde not only creates a unique and imaginative world in this novella, but also gives us philosophical and moral dilemmas to ponder. In a kingdom reminiscent of ancient Rome, gems have the power to control and influence people. Most cannot hear the gems, but Lapidaries, those who can hear them, must be … Read More

infomocracy - a story about information democracy

Infomocracy by Malka Older

Cindy and I listened to Infomacracy together.  Christine Marshall did a good job as the reader.  Introducing a Science Fiction / Fantasy world is a challenge.  In this case, the transition into the story was not very smooth.  When we started listening we had trouble following the story and wondered if … Read More

lab girl

Lab Girl by Hope Jahren

When my daughter and I went to Amicalola State Park in Georgia last month to do some hiking, I wanted to bring along books that would enhance and broaden our outdoor experience.  Just like finding the perfect wine to complement a special meal, I often look for books to pair … Read More