Jane Austen Fan

Not Gone

2010-09-10T12:29:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I'm not gone AND I've been working on a new direction for this blog. It may be a few more weeks before I get it started but I would LOVE your input! Thanks for reading my blog!

It's Hard to say Goodbye!

2010-03-26T16:08:00.000-06:00

Yes, it's true I will no longer be continuing this blog. I LOVE Miss Austen and respect her work emensly! I've loved meeting new people through this blog and seeing all the different cities, states and countries of people who visit my blog. There are so many Janeites out there, I love it!!! I've been working on becoming a professional photographer and have been busy with that blog and my family blog. I know there are a million other Miss Austen blogs out there, so mine won't be too greatly missed. Enjoy life! Enjoy family! Enjoy reading!

With Love,
Tricia B. (a fellow Jane Austen fan)

Jane Austen has a Graphic Novel!

2010-03-17T06:51:00.000-06:00

Can you believe it? There's a P&P graphic novel!!! I've never been a fan of the graphic novel, but when I saw this I just HAD to get it! I purchased this through Amazon. It should be coming in the mail today so I'll let you know if it's worth the $13.95 I paid for it. I'm actually excited!

Dickens Anyone?

2010-02-20T22:06:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for Masterpiece Theatre, yes I freely admit it AND with no shame I might add. One day I was perusing Netflix and stumbled upon "Little Dorrit." The dvd picture looked promising and the stories subject matter sounded like it was right up my alley. Unfortunately, one of the things I hate about Netflix is that if you want to get a movie that's several dvd's long (such as Masterpiece Theatre productions) you can only get one at a time and therefore must wait DAYS until the next one comes in the mail!!! Anyway, "Little Dorrit" was 4 dvd's long!!! As soon as I put the first disc in and pressed play, I feel in love with the characters, actors and story. You can imagine how long those days felt to me when I had to wait for the next dvd!! I tried the library, CHECKED OUT! I knew Blockbuster would probably not have them, BUT I tried anyway. I asked the lady behind the counter if they carried Masterpiece Theatre productions and do you know what she said? hahah, you're gonna love this! She said, "No we don't. They were popular in the eighties and don't make them anymore." WHAT?!?!??!?! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! Honestly, I shouldn't expect anything else from any employee of a dying breed of store, the video store but REALLY? I of course corrected her and went on my merry way. I eventually watched them all and LOVED it! You will too, I hope. Oh, and it's a Charles Dickens story, if you were wondering what it had to do with Dickens.

p.s. per my husbands request, he wanted me to add that he was "nice" and put the remaining dvd's at the top of the list so I wouldn't have to wait as long. You see, we share the 2 dvd's we get at a time, one is for him and the other for me. Anyway, wasn't that "nice" of him?

"Book of a Thousand Days"

2010-01-21T23:40:00.000-07:00

From Untitled Album

The "Book of a Thousand Days" is amazing. The author, Shannon Hale wrote "Austenland" which I've reviewed on my blog, many months ago. This is the second book of hers that I've read and I'm VERY impressed. I would love to see this book go to film, I think it would be a beautiful movie. I loved that this story took place somewhere other than North America or Europe. The main character Dashti is so strong and yet you feel the burden she carries and you feel for her, if not then you're just plain heartless. I honestly would've never picked this book off the shelf, but it was given to me as a birthday gift and once I started it I COULDN'T put it down. Try it for yourself, I dare you to not like it!

Not GREAT but Okay

2010-01-15T12:37:00.001-07:00

So I stayed up until 3am to finish this book last night! I hate when you get all caught up in a book and just can't put it down. The "tasks" that the main character had to do and the romance kept it interesting but the ending , sorry for the term, SUCKED! The book has great potential but ends on a sour note. Had I written this book it would have taken a very different tone, but alas I did not write it. I give this book two and a half stars out of five. Read it if you'd like, but be warned - the ending stinks!

"Jane Austen Ruined My Life"

2010-01-07T07:25:00.000-07:00

From Desktop

I stumbled upon this book the other day as I was browsing books on Amazon. The title of course intrigued me and I read several of the customer reviews. The overall review was good, but there were some that found the book disappointing. Still I'm going to give it a try. Isn't the cover catching? I thought so. The book is in the mail and I will let you know if this is a MUST READ or a DON'T BOTHER.

"The Young Victoria"

2009-12-17T12:57:00.001-07:00

The Young Victoria

This movie stars Emily Blunt who has been given a Golden Globe nomination for her role in this film. I believe it comes out this weekend, but I would assume it's not playing everywhere. The film looks beautiful! Queen Victoria comes to the thrown 20 years after Jane Austen died, so their lives never cross but whose to say Queen Victoria never read an Austen novel? Watch the trailer it's AWESOME!

p.s. Thanks to Brian who brought this fabulous trailer to my attention!

Still Here

2009-12-06T22:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, once again it's taken me a little while to post something sorry. I'm still working on the "Percy Jackson and Mount Olympus" series, which I adore. I need more Austen stuff though after all that's what this blog is all about!

Here's a thought, I've heard this contentious argument brought up a few times and I'm wondering what your thoughts are on the subject. Here's the argument; many believe that Jane Austen is the reason/problem for womens disillusioned view of men, love and marriage. What do you think?

My thoughts? I of course thinks it's a ridiculous argument. Novels have forever been an escapism of ideal and not so ideal worlds where the reader can forget about their troubles or problems and dream of a place and time when things seemed so much simpler and even romantic. Jane Austen's books do just this. Miss Austen was a smart and idealistic woman for her time. There weren't many women authors but she didn't let that stop her. She never meant for her books to be taken literally. She wrote about a world that should exist, where people could love without worry of status, money or family name. Miss Austen's life never turned out like the women in her novels, quite the opposite. I don't think she was looking for 'Mr. Darcy' but I do believe she wanted to marry for love. Unfortunately she never got that chance. Isn't that what we all want in the end, love? That's why her books are still popular today.

If there are women out there searching for Mr. Darcy, good luck. He doesn't exist. He's fiction. Real people aren't perfect so you shouldn't look for nor expect perfection. Are you perfect? Please don't tell me you said yes . . . Anyway, I love Miss Austen, I wish she were a sister or best friend but sometimes I feel she is.

A Quote from Miss Austen

2009-11-15T22:18:00.000-07:00

"My idea of good company is the company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation; that is what I call good company."

-Jane Austen

This is one of my favorites and so true!!!

My Thoughts on "The Lightning Thief"

2009-11-13T21:59:00.000-07:00

I liked it. The book isn't as gripping as "Harry Potter" but it's a fun story. I liked it enough that I bought the second book tonight. The one thing I can say about "The Lightning Thief" is that it has stirred a desire in me to read up on the Greek Gods and their stories. I even bought "Hercules" (the Disney version) tonight, don't worry I know that it's a "Disney" story and not in the least like the actual stories/myths. Anyone have any good book suggestions on the Greek Gods? My husband suggested the "Iliad" anything else?

Also, whoever posted a comment on my blog about Viagra, thanks but no thanks! Has anyone else had this problem? Really, my blog doesn't get that many hits to make it even worth while. Does it strike anyone as odd that you would advertise Viagra on a Jane Austen website? Just sick! Don't do it again whoever you are!

"The Lightning Thief"

2009-10-27T12:39:00.002-06:00

From Desktop

I've given up!!! Given up on the last two books I've mentioned. First "Villette" had WAY too many french words and I don't read or speak it! The story was pretty slow moving too. "The Last Symbol" was very dark, which is no surprise but it kept giving me nightmares! I was also bored with Robert Langdon's continual intellectual brag fest. So I've started a new one! Surprised? You shouldn't be.
"The Lightning Thief" is a children's book that will soon be a movie. It looked interesting so I picked it up and haven't been disappointed. Its no "Harry Potter" but it's a fun story! Happy reading!!

Book A.D.D.

2009-10-01T21:34:00.002-06:00

So, I have a problem . . . I've actually been this way for as long as I can remember . . . I have book A.D.D. My bookshelves are lined with books that have only been half read (sometimes less) AND I have a problem with reading multiple books at the same time. Currently, I am reading "The Lost Symbol" by Dan Brown and "Villette" by Charlotte Bronte. "The Lost Symbol" makes it difficult for me to sleep at night so I can only read it during the day. "Villette" is a great book to fall asleep with, not that it's a snoozer, but you know it's not adrenaline pumping like the other book I'm reading. I'm really liking "Villette" so far, but it doesn't read as easily as "Jane Eyre" (my favorite book, I know it's not an Austen book - does that make me a hypocrite?). "The Lost Symbol" is actually getting a little annoying. Dan Brown makes his main character, Robert Langdon, so preachy. He's a know-it-all that likes to share-it-all, blah blah blah! I'm still going to finish it though, I have to find out what happens! At least once "Symbol" is done I'll be able to devote more time and energy to "Villette." Has anyone else read either of these? I'd like your opinion, please no spoiler alerts.

Long Title, Good Book

2009-09-15T11:56:00.001-06:00

"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" is an extremely long name for a book and in all honesty if someone wouldn't have recommended this book to me I would have NEVER picked it up. The title is just horrid, sorry but it is. However, with that being said you could apply the old adage "don't judge a book by it's cover" to this one. The style of writing is letters to and from the main character, again not my favorite style of writing because I actually LIKE dialogue. Anyway, the story is great! A different take on WWII. I actually never knew there was such a place as Guernsey but I don't profess to be very good at geography. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who would like a good heart warming story about friendship, trials and love.

From Desktop

My Thoughts on "Mr. Darcy, Vampyre"

2009-08-20T07:24:00.002-06:00

Like my fellow Austen fan, I felt like this book had a great story but never really dug deep and embraced the characters and situations. I had a hard time with the vagueness of the book. Elizabeth (she's Miss Bennett by name only) never finds out that Darcy is a vampire until more than halfway through the book. She doesn't freak out or go running home. She's a wimp compared to the REAL Elizabeth Bennett.

Darcy's character as a vampire never really truly emerges. What does he eat? Does he sleep? Why does he turn into a bat and can that be done at will or does he have no control over that? Does he have fangs? If so, why is it that Miss Bennett never noticed before? Why is it that EVERYONE outside of England seems to know of vampires? Anyway, you get my point. I wanted the "neety greety."

The ending was a bit "Indian Jonesish" but not as exciting. I did like the idea of "killing" the vampire, I just wish there was more depth to the story. If I had to rate this book I'd give it 3 1/2 stars out of 5, with my main reason being lack of detail, weakly drawn out characters, and not a lot of substance.

A Little Bit Trashy

2009-08-17T21:40:00.003-06:00

Okay, so I thought I'd give this a try but it turned out to be a huge waste of time. The book is short I finished it the day I got it, but can I just say that instead of the title being "A Little Bit Psychic" it should be "A Little Bit Trashy." If you like the trashy romance/sex thing then you'll probably like it, scratch that I don't think anyone would like this.

True, during the early 1800's sex wasn't something commonly found in novels, but I strongly doubt if Miss Austen were alive today she would put something this graphic in one of her novels. Okay, enough said about that. The rest of the book is horrible. I don't think it was edited before it was printed and the story line is a bit gay (no offense to gay people). It's second rate at best and I doubt I would ever read anything from this author again. Was that a little harsh? Good.

Broken

2009-08-12T20:07:00.002-06:00

Quick post. The other night my husband and I finally got a night out and had a babysitter come to stay with our little boy. The first thing I noticed when we got home was HALF of my Jane Austen figurine laying on the couch!!!!!! I searched for several minutes until I finally found the other half, poor Miss Austen. I had her safely put up, but the babysitter obviously didn't know it was MY toy and not the little one's. Miss Austen will either have to be glued or replaced . . . probably just glued, oh well I guess nothing is safe/sacred when there are kids in the house.

"Mr. Darcy, Vampyre"

2009-08-11T21:41:00.002-06:00

I have it! I'm starting it tonight! I will let you know . . .

Lost in Austen Follow-up

2009-08-05T14:16:00.002-06:00

I know many people liked this movie, but I didn't. It was confusing and lacking. The ending bothered me too, what would Miss Austen think? Would she think it funny or atrocious? I tend to lean toward the latter. *SPOILER ALERT* Okay, Jane marrying Collins? Ewwww, gross! Thank goodness is was never consummated! Could you imagine, ugh! Elizabeth chops her hair short like a boy, Amanda Price never changes her hair to match the time period and ends up with Darcy! I'm sure it is the dream of many a woman to end up with Darcy, but the story is ruined! People can add on to the story or make a modern version, but please PLEASE don't mess with the original. I'm sorry to those that feel different than myself. Please leave your opinion, I'd love to hear it!

Lost in Austen

2009-08-03T07:55:00.002-06:00

I just got the first season on DVD through Netflix and will probably be watching it some of it today. I will let you know what I think. Anyone else seen this show? Sorry I haven't been posting much, I have two other blogs! Anyway, I'm excited to watch this show, I hope it's good!

A Walk in the Park

2009-06-20T23:22:00.003-06:00

An evening at the Jordan River Parkway was exactly what Miss Austen needed. She was happy to get out and get a little exercise. Miss Austen is always up for a good stroll. Her only complaint with the parkway is the lack of flowers. There were plenty of brush and weeds to be seen, but flowers are rather scarce. She did however, enjoy the quaint little wood bridges that are spread throughout the parkway.

New Idea

2009-05-28T21:06:00.002-06:00

I wish I would have thought of this idea a week ago, but that's the story of my life. Anyway, I can't claim that I'm the original inventor of this idea, but I plan to carry it forth in my own way. Summer time is the time that everyone goes on vacation so I thought I would bring my Miss Austen doll along for the trip and take pictures of her in interesting places that I go. This way Miss Austen can explore a country that she didn't care too much for. Maybe I can sway her into rethinking her previous notions on Americans?

Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!

2009-05-05T22:34:00.002-06:00

I haven't been reading any wonderful Austen books, but I did just watch the movie version of "The Jane Austen Book Club" and it was surprisingly good. I haven't read that book for a long time and I remember not really liking it so I never felt the desire to see the movie. Anyway, I was bored the other day and Netflix had it as a movie you could watch on your computer, so I did. It was pretty good.

Is it considered obsessive to watch the Twilight movie sometimes twice in one day? Since seeing the movie so many times I've been wanting to read the books again, which I just did. What is it about those dang books? They're not exactly amazing literature, but I guess they're good escapism books. It's nice to read a story about something that isn't real and never could be, but would be cool if it did . . . Enough rambling. I hope to update sooner rather than later next time. My husband and I are starting our own book club, so we can do something together. Our first book is Jungle Book. I've read it before and liked it, but it's been awhile.

Random Thoughts

2009-03-12T18:13:00.002-06:00

So I haven't posted for a while, sorry. I have two other blogs that keep me quite busy and I've recently become addicted to Facebook. Anyway, I know this may seem absurd to some but I have one regret when it comes to my wedding day (almost 3 years ago), I wish I'd styled my dress after the Regency Era instead of the current trend. I'm just fascinated with their style of dress. The flow of the gown, the empire waist, and the square neckline are just beautiful. I sometimes imagine myself showing up to church wearing a gown from that time period. Anyone else share this weird obsession?

I haven't read any new Austenish novels, know any good ones? I did recently watch "The Buccaneers" which was a BBC adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel by the same title. It was pretty good, but odd to mix the Americans and Brits. Until next time, happy reading.

Cranford and Miss Austen Regrets

2009-01-03T15:25:00.003-07:00

I LOVED Cranford! If you have not yet seen this mini series you must watch it SOON! I have read Cranford and was quite shocked at first to see how vastly different this adaptation was, however after watching the commentary on how they made this mini series I was thrilled and loved it even more. The producers and writers actually take parts from several of Mrs. Gaskell's books including a little bit from her own life and meld it altogether and the outcome is brilliant!

Miss Austen Regrets is also very good. I liked the actress who portrayed Miss Austen. I did notice that she used a lot of the same mannerisms that Anne Hathaway uses in her role as Miss Austen. Everything I read or see about Miss Austen has a different take on her "loves" if there were any real ones. It's interesting see others' ideas and opinions on that matter.

Great Expectations

2008-12-17T22:38:00.002-07:00

I watched the Masterpiece Theatre version of Great Expectations today and LOVED it! I really do like Charles Dickens. Most people automatically think of The Christmas Carole, which in all honesty isn't a novel and is quite different from his actual novels. His writing is so rich and full of detail. The characters are so rich and there are so many of them! He does recycle some characters, but hey that's his thing. One of my favorite books of his is Bleak House. Has anyone else read it? What are some of your favorite Dickens novels?

Northanger Abbey

2008-12-12T17:00:00.002-07:00

Many Miss Austen fans don't particularly care for Northanger Abbey, but I actually do. I find it to be one of Miss Austen's most funny novels. She has fun making fun of her heroine Catherine Moreland and her love of the Gothic novel. Miss Austen never hesitates to point out the faults of her heroines, but Catherine's just seem silly and naive.

I watched an older version of this novel-to-movie and was very disappointed. It was scary and just plain weird, but this newest movie is delightful! I don't usually use the word delightful, but it seemed to fit. The actor who plays the young Mr. Tillney is quite adorable! I also like the actress who plays Catherine. I usually don't like the casting choice for the main character in Jane Austen's movies, but I think this actress fit very well. If you haven't seen it I definitely recommend you rent it or get it from the library ASAP! I think I may even want to own a copy!

I, Elizabeth

2008-11-05T13:38:00.003-07:00

I'm currently working on this novel and it will take me a while, it's LONG. So far what I've read is very interesting and insightful. I love reading historical fictions because you get a taste of true events, people, and times but without the boring read of a text book. True, you can't take everything for fact but then that's what makes this a novel and not a biography. One thing I've learned so far is that during this period in England, France, Spain and I'm sure others the fashion was for women to be WHITE. They couldn't show that they were blushing at all! To make them pale and cover blemishes and pink cheeks they used crushed egg shells! I'm not sure what you're thoughts are on this but I think it would be EXTREMELY scratchy and gross! They didn't have the best cleaning methods back then. It should take me about another week or so to finish this so until then, happy reading!

British Obsession

2008-10-22T20:19:00.007-06:00

Is there a shortage of good-looking American leading men? Hollywood seems to think so. If we love the Brits so much, why must we make them speak like Americans?

The Office - the most awesome show! No British actors but the show was based off of a British show also called The Office.

Damian Lewis - main character on another awesome show, Life. He is British not American. I guess if he sounded British as an L.A. cop it wouldn't fit too well.

Rufus Sewell - main character of a new show called Eleventh Hour. British again, never seen the show so I'm not sure if he could carry the accent.

Kevin McKidd - main character on Journeyman. Not British, a Scott. The show is okay. He was in The Maid of Honor and has a VERY Scottish accent.

Hugh Laurie - main character of House M.D. He is British and could use his natural accent as a doctor and have it work. So why make him sound like an American?

This is just an observation that I've made. I might of even missed some other actors that are British on American T.V., I wouldn't be surprised.

Four Queens

2008-10-22T02:20:00.003-06:00

I happened upon this book/audio CD's at the library the other day. It's actually quite amazing when I can randomly find something on the shelf, usually I have to order things. Anyway, I originally thought that Four Queens was a fiction book. The box didn't indicate one way or they either. I looked it up when I got home and found that it was a biography of four sisters who all became queens in the 1200's.

I can't say if this depiction is correct or not since this is the first I had heard of these ladies, but I did enjoy this biography. The oldest sister marries the king of France. The second marries the king of England. The third becomes a queen really in name only of Germany and the fourth sister is only queen of Sicily for 18 months. I wish this biography focused more on the sisters rather than their husbands, but it was interesting none-the-less. If you enjoy history especially medieval history than you'll enjoy this book.

Atonement

2008-10-05T23:07:00.002-06:00

So I'm starting to think that I'm a difficult reader to please. I DID NOT enjoy Atonement. The author himself refers to this book as his "Jane Austen novel," yeah, I don't think so. First, Miss Austen's books all come together nicely in the end and even though they may be a little too perfect, they're enjoyable. Secondly, Miss Austen would never have written about anything so dark and depressing. The only connection that can be made is that the main characters in both Atonement and Miss Austen's novels have major flaws that they must overcome and work on. I really didn't feel like Briony (the main character in Atonement), really atones for her mistake. She tries but it just doesn't cut it. I know the movie did really well, but after reading the book I have no desire to see the movie. There may be those that will disagree and that's fine, please tell me your thoughts I would love to read them!

The Last Lecture

2008-09-30T02:19:00.002-06:00

Randy Pausch is the author of this book and died recently in July of this year from pancreatic cancer. I saw him interviewed by Diane Sawyer early this year and I was amazed by this guy who was dying yet was so full of life. I had wanted to read this book and listen to "The Last Lecture" that he gave at the university where he taught, tonight I finished the book. I was brought to tears several times. To think of his family going on without him and how hard it must be to go through something like this. He did so many amazing things for his family though before he left this Earth. He wanted to leave a legacy for his children who are still very small and he did that! He made sure his wife was taken care of and he left words of wisdom for not only his family but the whole world. Please take the time to read this. You'll come away wanting to be a better person and cherish life more.

Rendezvous for Austen!

2008-09-19T13:39:00.002-06:00

Just recently I read Austenland and wondered if such a place existed. I don't want to go and "cheat" on my husband, but just being able to go somewhere that is set during the Regency Era and feel like a character out of one of Austen's books would be pretty awesome. I did a little research on the internet and although I didn't find a place where you pay to go and become part of an "Austenland" I did find that the U.S. has a Jane Austen Festival yearly in (of all places) Louisiana. Here's the link www.janeaustenfestival.org it looks pretty cool and there's a ton to participate in. Maybe I'll check it out one of these days.

Confessions

2008-09-18T16:02:00.003-06:00

Where to begin . . . well the actual story as a whole is unique and interesting, but I found it disappointing. The heroine gets a chance to meet the Miss Austen and absolutely botches the experience. I guess the author meant to do that, but honestly if you create a scene in which the main character gets to meet the most revered woman in novel history why waste it? Every reader of this book would gladly switch lives with a woman from the Regency era just for a chance to glance upon Miss Austen and I'm sure no one would envision the scene that takes place in this book.

Another thing, again the language! This isn't a James Patterson novel so skip the filthy mouth. I just don't think that f*** would be an appropriate word to use in a book regarding Jane Austen and her novels. I doubt Jane would have used such a word.

The main character Courtney/Jane has a problem with thinking too much, but must the reader suffer too? I found her thoughts to be frustrating and annoying. I really do like the IDEA of the book, but I wasn't particularly happy with how it was told.

Out of 5 stars I give it 2.

Austenland

2008-09-16T14:33:00.002-06:00

Once again I sacrificed sleep for the need to read. I got Austenland in the mail yesterday and finished this morning very, very early. I really liked the book. It definitely keeps you guessing. You think the book will end one way and then it switches on you and switches again! It was definitely cute and a book I recommend.

I also found out that the author is a local one here in Salt Lake City! I'll have to be on the lookout for any other books she has coming out and see if she does a signing.

Jane Eyre's Daughter

2008-09-15T12:13:00.002-06:00

This is the first spin-off I've read for Jane Eyre. It was pretty good, but not fabulous. My favorite book is Jane Eyre (sorry, not P&P), so I guess my expectations were a little too high. The story itself was pretty good, but the writing left much to be desired. Charlotte Bronte is an extremely accomplished writer, so if you're going to write a spin-off I feel the writing should be comparable. Jane Austen's books are a bit easier to do sequels with because Jane's writing is more light and witty where Charlotte's is dark and deep. I love both authors and both styles of writing and enjoy the sequels that other authors write. I just feel that if you're going to stick with the same time period and continue a story than the writing should reflect the original authors style.

Out of five stars I would give this book a 2 1/2. I'm interested in looking for other Jane Eyre spin-offs. If anyone knows of a good one please let me know!

Cranford

2008-09-10T15:25:00.002-06:00

This is the third book by Elizabeth Gaskell that I've read. The first one I read was Wives and Daughters - loved it! The second, North and South - again loved it! Cranford, not so much. I know they just did a new BBC mini series of Cranford and I intend to watch it, but this story was difficult to get through. It seemed like Ms. Gaskell really didn't know where this story was going and who the main character should be. Mary Smith is the narrator and nothing of consequence happens to her. She lives her life through those of Cranford. There is a dull romance that never really amounts to anything and several deaths. I don't recommend this book. However, to be fair to Ms. Gaskell the afore mentioned books, Wives and Daughters and North and South are wonderful. If you haven't read Wives and Daughters be prepared that there is no ending to the story. The author died before she could finish it.

I'm still waiting for my other books to get here . . . soon I'll have to decide which one to start with.

Three New Books

2008-09-05T13:55:00.005-06:00

Okay, I finally ordered some new books (I really should just read the ones I have but haven't read yet). I'm excited to get them and start reading! The first book "Austenland" I had seen at Barnes and Noble and it looked good, but I didn't want to buy it brand new and in hardcover. To spend the money on hardcover books is something I only do if I REALLY love the book i.e. "Harry Potter."

The second, "Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict" sounded so awesome! I think I'll really enjoy this book unless it's loaded with sex or swearing, which I detest! To me those things just cheapen a book, although some of my English professors would disagree.

The third book I have been debating about for a while. I know
there are war and sex scenes, which again I detest but the movie
was raved about so much and it looked like a good story, so I'll
chance it.

I should get the books next week so look for a new post sometime
by the end of the week. Later!

Sorry

2008-09-04T02:31:00.001-06:00

I'm sorry I haven't posted anything here for a while. I just started working nights again and getting enough sleep is proving very difficult right now. When you have a 10 month old there isn't much time for resting. I will pick out a book soon, any suggestions?

Breaking Dawn - The End!

2008-08-12T16:17:00.003-06:00

Luckily for me I didn't get into this series until about 2 months ago. This made the wait for Breaking Dawn much more bearable. I'm a very impatient person too. I originally ordered this book from Amazon, but when I realized that they weren't going to even mail it until August 4th I was upset so that Saturday morning I marched bright and early into Target and grabbed one of their 50 copies. I would have enjoyed going to a midnight party, but with a 9 month old that still nurses and makes up at ALL hours of the night, I decided that morning would be just fine.
I didn't finish this one in 27 hours, but it was a real page turner. My husband picked up my slack with taking care of the baby, so that I could escape into the "Twilight." At first I didn't like the change in point-of-view, but after a while I realized that it was probably better seeing Bella's pain rather than actually experience it through her. The fact that she had a baby is insane! The name was a little weird, Renesmee? I understood why she did it, but I mean the kid will be stuck with that name FOREVER, literally.
The whole "Imprinting" thing is cool except when they "Imprint" on a baby! Very strange . . . when I read that Jacob had Imprinted on Renesmee I was like WHAT?!!!!! I'm glad Jacob got his happy ending though. I didn't really know how his story would end up.
Thank goodness Bella is finally a vampire! Stephenie makes being a vampire seem so cool that I keep wishing vampires were real. Who wouldn't want to have the ability to run super fast and never get tired? Jump over rivers? And awesome sex?! Not, that sex isn't good but the book seems to say that vampire sex is the ULTIMATE! Here's my neck!
Overall I thought the book was great. There are so many critics out there that judge these books so harshly, but you know they weren't meant to become the greatest American literature to be studied in classrooms for generations. They're fun! A good story that helps people escape real life for a time and make women all over wish they would run into a vampire like Edward. Enjoy the books that's what they were written for.

Persuasion Isn't Perfection

2008-08-12T15:51:00.002-06:00

This was the 2nd time I'd attempted reading this novel. For some reason I just couldn't get into it. I'd also watched an old BBC version of this book on screen and it was lacking. There just wasn't enough meat for me. However, if I am to claim that I'm a Jane Austen fan then I better read this novel.
It wasn't bad. It wasn't the best either. For me Pride and Prejudice is Jane's masterpiece. P&P is a book that you can't put down and the proof of the power that this novel contains is on bookshelves worldwide! There are so many spin-offs to P&P that it's ridiculous! I've read a few of them and honestly they're not that great. Anyway, back to Persuasion. I liked that this was a rather short novel. The heroine Anne, has a self-absorbed father that I find very funny. Anne's embarrassed by him and it's not hard to see why. Anne's father Sir Walter Elliot is described thus;
"Vanity was the beginning and the end of Sir Walter Elliot's character; vanity of person and situation . . . Few women could think more of their personal appearance than he did . . . He considered the blessing of beauty as inferior only to the blessing of a baronetcy."
I'm so glad that neither of my parents act anything like that. It would be very embarrassing and probably turn me into a self-absorbed snot too! The fact that the father spends more money than he earns is fitting. Although, being such a prideful person he seems to take their reduced income and removal of their grand home rather well. You'd think he would've thrown a fit or something, but it just seemed like a minor inconvenience.
If Anne were real I'm sure she would find my next comment utterly false, but I didn't find Captain Wentworth to be all that great. I don't think it was his fault though. It seemed that Jane spent more time on developing the character of Mr. Elliot (the cousin) than she did for Wentworth. I thought he could've used some more depth and dialog.
Persuasion is a quaint novel, but not a favorite for me. I enjoyed my time reading it, but I didn't find it difficult to put down (that's what determines if it's awesome or not). I rented the new Persuasion film version from Netflix and I can't wait to see how close it follows the book. What are your thoughts?

If You Love Jane Austen . . .

2008-07-29T10:14:00.000-06:00

I had seen this book at the store, but some reason I had decided not to purchase it. Well, last week I sent Dustin to the store to pick some things up and he returned with this book for me! I was a bit skeptical at first, but I really enjoyed this book. It brings Jane Austen to life and makes you feel like you KNOW her. I hope that she had an experience like the one in this book. I have often felt sad for Jane that she never married. She wrote about love so it must have at times been difficult for her knowing that she never had her Mr. Darcy. Maybe she did, she just kept it a great secret. If you are an Austen fan than this is the book for you!

P.S. It is fiction. The author does a wonderful job of weaving things into her life from her books.

Stardust

2008-07-01T10:27:00.000-06:00

I'm currently reading Stardust by Neil Gaiman. Dustin and I watched the movie and really liked it so I'm currently reading the book that inspired the movie. You might think that this is a kids book, but it's not. There has already been a ummm questionable sex scene and the f-bomb. Other than that the book is great so far. It reminds me of The Princess Bride, but not as good. I still recommend at least seeing the movie if you haven't yet.

The Host, Recommended

2008-06-26T11:11:00.000-06:00

Okay, so The Host is no Twilight Saga, but it has a charm of its own. Of course there's a romance, but that doesn't take center stage. The main themes of this book are the struggles between right and wrong and the conflict between two worlds or vantage points. I didn't think that Stephenie was planning to make this book into a series, but it could be easily done. She leaves it open at the end and I truly hope that she continues the story. I recommend this book. It's Sci-Fi, but not too Sci-Fi.

The Host

2008-06-13T22:32:00.001-06:00

Okay, okay, okay. I started Wuthering Heights, but I haven't finished it. I totally intend on finishing it, but it's a real thinker and after taking care of Lincoln all day I need something that doesn't make me think. I only have time at night so I need an easy read. I've decided to read Stephenie Meyer's new book The Host. As many of you know, I'm absolutely obsessed with her Twilight series. I thought I'd give this book a try. It's a Sci-Fi thriller and I love a good Sci-Fi every now and then. I purchased the book tonight so I won't have to wait. Happy reading!

Sorry I Changed My Mind

2008-05-14T21:15:00.000-06:00

I've decided to read Wuthering Heights instead. Sorry if anyone started reading Sense and Sensibility. I've always wanted to read this book and I'm in the mood for something a little darker. Plus in the third book of the Twilight Saga, Eclipse, there's alot of references to this book so I thought I would read it. I've seen one movire version several years ago but it's been enough time that I really don't remember the story. Once agin if anyone feels inclined to read this with me please do. I would love hear other peoples opinions.

#3 Eclipse

2008-05-11T07:08:00.001-06:00

Okay, so right off I have to say that my favorite book form this series so far is the first one Twilight. You learn in the second book New Moon that there is a love triangle between Edward, Bella and Jacob. I hate the love triangle. Edward is so awesome and then when Jacob enters the picture and it's almost as if the author wants to make Edward look bad. Jacob is a whinner, that's fine that he loves Bella but he needs to get over it and move on! The third book is full of this struggle between the two guys with Bella in the middle. And I'm sorry but she's stupid for encouraging Jacob. She knew that he liked her more than she liked him, but she still lets him hold her hand and hug her, well duh, what you think that means for a guy? It's just pathetic. Honestly right now I'm not excited for the fourth and final book to come out. The fact that Jacob has becoe one of the main characters is disgusting. I thought this was a love story between Edward and Bella?

#2 in the Twilight Saga

2008-05-07T20:46:00.000-06:00

So this is number 2 in the Twilight Saga and I had to wait an entire week for this book to come. I ordered it because it was way cheaper than buying at B & N. I breezed through this book in no time at all. The first book took 28 hours (I think) for me to get through and this one took about the same time. I've read these books way faster than Harry Potter which I didn't think was possible.
The second book New Moon is pretty good although one of the main characters is absent for most of the book which is unfortunate. These stories are captivating. The author has said herself that her writing isn't the best she's more of a storyteller and I would agree. While she won't get any awards for the actual gramatics of her books she makes up for that by the great love story that she has created. If only I could come up with something this fascinating . . .

MUST READ!!

2008-05-01T09:47:00.000-06:00

I read this book in two days! Does that tell you anything? The book has 500 pages but I breezed right through it. I have to admit that yesterday was a bit tough as I tried to read the book and take care of Lincoln. Poor Lincoln I think he was a bit neglected. I stole any minute I could get because I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I was a bit skeptical going in but boy was I wrong. There are some pretty cheesy parts but it's cute and the love story is great just because it's one that shouldn't work.

Yesterday I was describing this book to my husband (he won't ever read it) and I was just amazed at how well it flowed and worked. The Time magazine article talked about how there's no sex in the book but there are very sexual scenes and I couldn't agree more. There is soooo much tension between the two main characters that you just keep reading to find out what happens. Do they touch? Do they kiss? Does Edward the vampire try to kill her? I mean it's just nail biting! Anyway I've ordered the rest of the books in the series and I can't wait until they get here! Please go out and get yourself a copy I promise you won't be disappointed. Oh and I give this book 4 thumbs up!

Book #2

2008-04-29T22:55:00.001-06:00

Okay so I told myself I wasn't going to pick a book that is in a series. I also told myself I wouldn't read this particular book because it's about vampires and I don't really care for vampires, however today I read an article in the Times magazine about this book and its Mormon author and I decided to give it a try.
This book is like I said about vampires but it's also about the timeless tale of forbidden love and who can turn that down? I haven't decided what to do if I like this book and want to read the subsequent novels, will I include them in the book club? I guess we'll see what this book has to offer first before I decide to read the entire series. Anyway, I just started the book tonight so happy reading if you decide to join in.

"The Kite Runner" Review

2008-04-27T23:21:00.000-06:00

So I won't ruin the story for those of you that have not read this book, but I will say it takes stomach to get through some parts. This historical fiction is about the power of friendship, betrayal and redemption. Some parts seem extremly predictable and maybe even a little far-fetched, but overall it has a great story and moral.

I rented the movie but have not yet watched it. I'm curious how closely the movie follows the book. I will keep you posted.

Anyway, I liked this book alot. It's always interesting to learn about different cultures. I never knew that Afganistan used to be a very peaceful country. I guess like many other I just assumed that this country had been ravaged by war for centuries. I feel sad for people who have to flee their country to escape war, persecution and poverty. I only hope that our beloved country will stay strong and not become like so many others. Back to the book, I definitely recommend everyone reading this story it's very rich and loaded with detail. Overall I give this book a rating of 3.75 out of 5.

First Read

2008-04-22T22:02:00.000-06:00

I saw the movie trailer to this and thought it looked interesting but I didn't know that it was an actual book until my friend Tara blogged about it. So I am currently reading The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. This book is fiction and is about growing up in Afganistan during the 1970's to present. Of course there's more to this book than that, but I will do a full review next week when I've finished and maybe give some time if there's anyone who would also like to read this book.

Book Club!!!

2008-04-22T21:57:00.000-06:00

Okay so this blog has been sitting here for quite sometime without having anything done to it. I honestly didn't know what to do with it, but I do now! As many of you know I love reading so I decided to turn this blog into a monthly Book Club! Every month I will pick a book, read it, report on it, rate it, and hopefully hear from anyone else who may be interested or has already read the book and would like to comment. Happy reading!