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IrresponsibleReader

IrresponsibleReader

Joined December 2016

I Read (a lot), Rant, Rave and maybe Review
review
IrresponsibleReader
Shattered Bonds | Faith Hunter
Pickpick

An unhinged, power-mad, brilliant and cruel predator on the one hand, and seemingly incurable cancer on the other. Yeah, Jane's got her work cut out for her. A fantastic entry in this fantastic series—action, danger, love, loss, highs, lows, barbecue, and the best hunter—Shattered Bonds has it all. https://wp.me/p3z9AH-4qK

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IrresponsibleReader
The Princess Beard: The Tales of Pell | Kevin Hearne, Delilah S. Dawson
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I didn't connect with this one as much as I did those before, ditto for any of the characters. But I expect that my experience isn't typical—The Princess Beard will resonate with some more than the others did. Either way, the reader will enjoy the ride. It's exciting, it's affirming, it's a hoot. I'm going to miss Pell, and hope the authors decide to dip their collective toes back into it from time to time in the future. https://wp.me/p3z9AH-4kz

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

I went without sleep—2 days before seeing my sleep specialist, who saw the data, I should add—to stay up and finish this. It was totally worth the scathing look she gave me because I just had to know how it ended. It's one of the best in the series. A couple of authentic laughs, a lot of smiles, some warm fuzzies. a very clever mystery, and some good quality time with old friends—it's a genuinely good time. https://wp.me/p3z9AH-4io

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

From the funny and dark beginning, to the perfect and bitingly ominous last three paragraphs this is a winner. Timely & appropriate, but using tropes and themes that are familiar, Lutz has given us a thriller for our day—provocative, entertaining, and haunting. One of those books that hews really close to things that could or have happened and you're better off hoping are fictional. Lutz is always very good, The Swallows is Lutz at her best.

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

I really enjoyed this book and heartily recommend it. One thing, though, kept running through my mind as I read it. As much as I enjoyed this, when I was 8-13, I would've loved it (probably when I was 14 and 15, too—I just wouldn't admit it). It's the kind of book that I would've been checking out of the library every two or three months. Get this for yourself and enjoy it, get this for your kid for them to obsess over.

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IrresponsibleReader
Gilmore Girls: A Cultural History | Lara C. Stache, Rachel Davidson
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This is a fun read, a thought-provoking read, and a comfort-read. It's like spending a couple of hours talking with some pretty intelligent friends about a TV show you all really like. It's impossible to watch the show without thinking about it in the terms the authors choose to focus on—relationships, feminism, wealth, community, family—but most fans probably haven't focused on it to the extent this volume does. https://wp.me/p3z9AH-4eo for more

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IrresponsibleReader
Thirteen | Steve Cavanagh
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What separates this serial killer from others is the motivation behind his killings and victim selection. He's clearly mentally ill & he enjoys his work. But there's an ethos, an ideology behind him, Everything he does is toward this goal, toward living out this ethos. I absolutely loved this, & the more we saw this was behind the killings, the more I liked it (& the more impressed I was with the creation of this killer). https://wp.me/p3z9AH-48h

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

I've read 122 books so far in 2019. I'd easily say this is better than 120 of them, and might tie the other. Your mileage may vary, but I can't imagine a world where anyone on this site not enjoying this novel & protagonist. It's charming, witty, funny, touching, heart-string-tugging, and generally entertaining. I don't know what else to say other than: Go, go read this, go buy it, expect it as a gift from me (if you receive gifts from me).

5 likes1 stack add
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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

Pure escapist entertainment. No message, no pondering foibles of society, no commentary on social ills, just a wild & crazy story about a “renegade archeologist“ and a spy battling a cult, a plot to take over the gov't, and historic artifacts that could change the world (some well-done character growth and development-grounding the lunacy). Fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled, adventure with a couple of the most marvelous female protagonists of 2019

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IrresponsibleReader
Paper Son | S. J. Rozen
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If Paper Son isn't Rozan at her best, it's hard to tell. For book 12 in a series to be this good defies the odds, the years that separated this book from it's predecessor didn't slow her down a bit. Long-time fans will be delighted in the return of this pair. Fans of PI fiction starring smart, capable (and yes, mouthy) women will find a lot to reward them in these pages.
Full thoughts:https://wp.me/p3z9AH-42I

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

Not an easy read--because of the subject matter, the realism of the characters and circumstances. This isn't a larger-than-life genius serial killer--it's the everyday reality for too many. Just tinged with a spree killer making a grim circumstance worse for some. It's a gripping read, a clever whodunit, with characters that might be those you meet every day. At once satisfying and disturbing--a great combo. My full take: https://wp.me/p3z9AH-41y

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IrresponsibleReader
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I think this is one that could be better on a 2nd (and then maybe on the third) read, once you can take your time and not race to find out what happened, or be dazzled by Teagan's personality. If I'm wrong, and Ford's just razzle dazzle--well, you're left with a fun read with snappy prose and an more-entertaining-than-most protagonist/narrator. Either way--a book I recommend without a hint of hesitation. My complete take: https://wp.me/p3z9AH-41l

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IrresponsibleReader
Killer Thriller | Lee Goldberg
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My complete thoughts are at: https://urlzs.com/YwAAV
From the big things -- like fight scenes or car chases -- to the way he describes a Washington D. C. restaurant, to little touches like the way that someone smuggles information out of China, Goldberg is at the top of his game -- which is an accomplishment. I think I've read almost 30 of his books and there are maybe one or two that are more satisfying than Killer Thriller.

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IrresponsibleReader
Dark Queen | Faith Hunter
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Faith Hunter puts all of her experience, all her skill and talent on display here -- and it works. This is really a tour de force for her and it's just a pleasure to read. There's some brave choices she makes here -- totally shaking up the series, the status is not quo, as a horrible doctor might say.

I laughed, I got angry, I cheered, I fretted, I got awfully close to letting water leak out of my eyes -- I loved this book from start to finish.

1 like1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
My Little Eye | Stephanie Marland, Stephanie Broadribb
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This book got its hooks into me straightaway and didn't let go, I resented work and family as they distracted me (however good or pressing the reason) from Clementine and Dom's quests. I can confidently say that I've not read a mystery novel like this one--and that's not easy this many decades into my love of the genre. I have no idea how she's going to follow this--I just want to read it soon.

IrresponsibleReader You may enjoy reading my complete post about the book at: https://wp.me/p3z9AH-3gH

7y
1 like1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

Thought-provoking, interesting, educating, well-written and generally entertaining -- Timekeepers really covers all the bases and covers them well. You'd do well to check it out.

IrresponsibleReader You can read my complete thoughts here. 7y
2 likes1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
The Blinds | Adam Sternbergh
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There's exploration of the nature of memory, of personality, of man, of evil. There's moments of triumph, of despair, heartbreak, and a few instances of "what??" You'll learn a Russian phrase that'll chill you to your bone & you'll be overjoyed that he found journalism rather than turning to crime.

On p. 119, I wrote, "I'm either going to hate this ending or I'll be recommending this for months." I didn't hate it -- he's got another winner here.

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IrresponsibleReader
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This novel was somehow less than the sum of its parts, for me -- but I can easily see where I'll be in the minority for thinking that. I'm not saying I didn't enjoy it, I just should've enjoyed it more.

Strong characters, strong themes (ones you usually don't see in Detective fiction), and a tumultuous time period combine to deliver another satisfying entry in this series that'll please existing fans and probably pick up a few more.

1 like1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
Skyfarer | Joseph Brassey
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This isn't exactly a revolutionary idea for a story--but man, it doesn't matter. There's a reason everyone and their brother has tried this--it's a good story. Especially when it's told well. And Brassey tells it really well. Not just because of his hybridization of SF & Fantasy, but because he can take a story that everyone's taken a shot at and make it seem fresh.

I don't know what 'it' is, but this book's got it.

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

Great character moments; slow, organic development; and top-notch writing. Coleman delivers again, continuing to take the foundation laid by Parker and building on it in a way that's true to the spirit of the world Parker created, but brought to us with a newfound depth.

1 stack add1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
Fallen | Ace Atkins
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Atkins has infused--and continues to do so--this community and these characters with so much life, so much reality, that the reader gets sucked in and can't help but care about everyone. It's only when I stopped to think about the book that I had any issues--in the moment I couldn't have cared less about what was going on in my real life--Jericho, Mississippi was what it was all about.

Solid crime fiction from one of the best working today.

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IrresponsibleReader
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This is exactly what Charlie Fox readers have come to expect from her--she takes the proverbial licking and keeps on ticking, and kicking, swinging and everything else. Best of all, she thinks--she plots, she improvises, she keeps on trying. Not to sound cliché, but this damsel finds herself in plenty of distress--and gets herself out of it (occasionally with help--but not in a Nell Fenwick sort of way; more like Lt. Templeton Peck way).

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IrresponsibleReader
The Right Side: A Novel | Spencer Quinn
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I'm a Quinn fan-but I didn't think he had this in him. Funny mysteries with dogs? Sure, he's great at those. But sensitive explorations of veterans dealing with the aftermath of life-altering injuries? I wouldn't have guessed it. But man . . . he really got this flawed character, this incredibly human character, right.

This is Spencer Quinn operating on a whole new level with a character we need more like -- such a great read.

1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
Startup: A Novel | Doree Shafrir
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The ending sneaks up on you -- I really didn't realize the novel ended when it did -- I got to the words "Acknowledgements" on the next page before I realized that the book was over. I liked the way it ended (once I figured out it happened).

I really liked these people, Shafrir's writing, and the way she told a story. Startup was honest, heart-felt, compassionate, and real -- this debut is as strong as it is winning.

2 likes1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
Best of Adam Sharp | Graeme Simsion
Mehso-so

I admired this book more than I enjoyed it -- though I need to stress I really enjoyed parts of it. I'd love to heartily recommend this, I wish I could -- but I can only do so with reservations. There's so much I object to going on in these pages that I can't, while I can respect Simsion's work (which was just great) -- and I know this book achieved everything he wanted. I'll give it 4 Stars out of 5 on merit, not my own enjoyment.

1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
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This hut the spot-a short, but fully developed, adventure, full of action, a bit of snark, and seeing Peter in his element. Would I have preferred a full novel? Sure-but if I can't have one, this works.
It's good to see this kind of case. Not just the serial killing, major magical threat, etc.-but the "smaller" stuff, too.

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IrresponsibleReader
Deep Down Dead | Steph Broadribb
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By the time I got to a 12% my notes started using the word "brutal." It's as if Pierce Brown took a crack at writing Stephanie Plum. Most of the violence (gun play or hand-to-hand) was brtual, but not overwhelmingly so.
In her characterization, and in her plotting, pacing and interweaving the stories of present and past that Broadribb displays more skill than a typical debut novelist.

1 like1 comment
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IrresponsibleReader
Remnants | Carolyn Arnold
Mehso-so

This isn't the most exciting or revolutionary - or, thankfully, most distubing -- serial killer novel you'll find. It is a solid procedural with believable characters (on either side of the law), an interesting solution, and some credible emotional beats. This is an entertaining read and if the rest of this series is of similar quality, it's worth your time to check out the others, too.

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IrresponsibleReader
The Collapsing Empire | John Scalzi
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Societal collapse told in an entertaining suspenseful & frequently funny way. It's a thinly disguised commentary on envionmental catastrophe w/o being preachy. It's not perfect, I'm not crazy about everything he does/tries to do in this book? But man, such a fun, quick ride that I can't help but like it and recommend it to everyone I can think of. More at: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2K3

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IrresponsibleReader
The Forgotten Girls | Owen Laukkanen
Mehso-so

A pretty rock-solid thriller, full of suspense and all the other things you want in a book about a serial killer being hunted down over several states. On the other hand, it's a lousy Stevens & Windermere novel -- it could have literally been any other detectives/agents/maverick cops and the book would've played out the same way.

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IrresponsibleReader
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This is sharply written, as usual. Atkins knows what he's doing (in this series or anything else) -- a great mix of character moments and plot. Spenser's voice is strong -- as are the voices of the other regulars. It was just a pleasure to read through and through. My complete take is here.

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IrresponsibleReader
Cold Reign | Faith Hunter
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Another winning tale of Vampire Politics, New Orleans weather, Magic, Big Cats and blood -- lots and lots of blood. At this point, I'm not sure Hunter can do anything wrong with this series -- and I hope she doesn't prove me wrong anytime soon. Get your orders in now folks so you can dive on it on May 2. (my complete thoughts)

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IrresponsibleReader
Wires and Nerve | Marissa Meyer
Mehso-so

the book was okay -- I enjoyed it, but man, I wanted more. At the same time, I think it delivered everything that Meyer and Holgate were looking for, so I can't complain. Fans of the series may enjoy it, but it's not a must read. People who haven't read the books had best avoid it -- but should probably go back and read the novels. (my complete thoughts)

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IrresponsibleReader
Behind Her Eyes | Sarah Pinborough
Mehso-so

for the first 290 pages I was enthralled and was about ready to call this the best thriller I've read in months -- maybe years. But the last 16 pages . . . I just don't know. I can understand what Pinborough was trying to do -- and can even make a decent argument defending it. But I don't like it -- and think that even the best argument in her defense is codswallop.

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IrresponsibleReader
Legal Asylum: A Comedy | Paul Goldstein
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Do I think I'd find this more amusing if I was in the legal profession/had some experience with Law School/was closer to my time in higher education? You bet. Is all of the humor lost on me because of that? Nope. Recommended for those who like smart books. Strong writing, satire that's on-target without being mean, good characters and an ending that's pretty satisfying--hard to ask for more. I talk more about the book here: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2Gt

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IrresponsibleReader
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A thriller filled with real people and situations that you can believe. You'll run the emotional gamut a time or two while reading this and will wish you could read faster just so you can make sure these kids make it home. I think I like the Carter Ross books more than this, but it's in Say Nothing that Parks finds his stride as a crime fiction writer. Really well done.

my complete take: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2FA

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IrresponsibleReader
Martians Abroad | Carrie Vaughn
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I have WAY too many things to say about this than I have space for here -- but you should get your hands on this optimistic SF adventure (featuring my yet-to-be-born my great-great-ellipses-great-granddaughter). My fairly complete thoughts are here: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2EB

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IrresponsibleReader
Repo Madness: A Novel | W. Bruce Cameron
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Walks the line between humor & serious drama--I don't find this as funny as some, but it is light & amusing. That doesn't take away from the drama, danger, etc.--just makes the narrative easier to read. This is one of those sequels that you don't see the need for, but I'm glad Rudy was brought back & anticipate his return. Another solid outing for this unlikely hero.

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

This is a very cool novel. If you dig SF that's not beholden to space ships and lots of future tech -- and can even handle a little bit of magic, you'll want to read this one. I don't have room for more here, check out this link instead: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2DL

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IrresponsibleReader
Pickpick

I liked it, but didn't love it. I had a lot of fun, and was engaged throughout. But it was a little bit of a let-down after Make Me. A mediocre Reacher is still better than so many books -- and this was both mediocre and better -- I'm glad I read this, and can't imagine how anyone who likes a suspense/thriller novel wouldn't. Still, Child is capable of more, and I hope he delivers that next time. (my complete take: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2Dk)

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IrresponsibleReader
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IrresponsibleReader
Mehso-so

my complete take: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2CJ

While reading this, I had a blast and was hooked throughout -- it was funny, tragic, thoughtful, painful. But the instant that I closed the book, all I could think of was how many things I didn't like and problems I had with the story. It's not just because Eleanor's story was different than Bernadette's -- I was relieved, by that -- but that this one didn't deliver what it could have.

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IrresponsibleReader
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My full take at: http://wp.me/p3z9AH-2CC
Here, the stakes with Joe are bigger than usual. What Stephanie uncovers is bigger & more serious than usual. Not that serial killers and mafia bosses are the stuff of sitcoms, but we've seen them used in light ways pretty often lately. In the end, this is a better than average Stephanie Plum adventure w/enough of the old reliable bits & some pretty good character moments. A good one for new fans or old.

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IrresponsibleReader
Lost in Wonderland | Nicky Peacock
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My Complete Thoughts: http://irresponsiblereader.com/2016/12/12/lost-in-wonderland-by-nicky-peacock/

A good mix of Supernatural & Thriller, wasn't sure that Peacock was going to be successful with it--few are. I'm not talking UF, I'm talking about a Suspense/Thriller that mixes in some sort of magic/monster where bullets should be. The heightened reality she was using already helps, sure, she tried a tricky thing and made it work, no small feat.

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IrresponsibleReader
What You Break | Reed Farrel Coleman
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my complete thoughts: http://irresponsiblereader.com/2016/12/07/what-you-break-by-reed-farrel-coleman/

This book put me through the wringer, Coleman has really topped himself. I lost sleep, which isn't that unusual, but I lost more sleep staying up to get through this than I have in a long time. There's a darkness, an emptiness throughout that wasn't there in our first encounter with Gus--or if it was, it's changed in source and intensity.