Morphy Meanders Through 2014 - Part 10

Morphy and Boyfriend at Christmas (Age 20 years)

This is my fourth 75 Books Challenge. I read about 300 books a year, so I'm not worried about meeting the challenge!

I mostly read fantasy, preferably urban, but also enjoy general and genre fiction, historical romance, classics, popular non-fiction, and will honestly try any genre at least once.

I prefer story over language and my favorite books are the ones I just want to hug after I'm done.

I don't so much review books as leave some sparse comments.

Pounds Lost:



Books Read in 2014: 310

My best books of 2014 are:

Quiet by Susan Cain
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Bloodchild by Octavia Butler

My best books of 2013 were:

Written in Red by Anne Bishop
Wonder by R. J. Palacio
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert

My best book of 2012 was:

The Fault in Our Stars by Green, John

My best books of 2011 were:

The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by McKillip, Patricia
Bridge of Birds by Hughart, Barry
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Wells, Rebecca
Garden Spells by Allen, Sarah Addison
Soulless by Carriger, Gail
What I Eat by Menzel, Peter and D'Aluisio, Faith
Ready Player One by Cline, Ernest

My favorite books from the years before that were:

Essential Spirituality by Roger Walsh
Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader by Anne Fadiman
The Stand by Stephen King
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Katherine by Anya Seton
Sweet Liar by Jude Deveraux
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff

Morphy's Mighty Monthly Reads for 2014 (Green Dragon Group Reads)

January (1001 Fantasy) - Magician's Guild by Trudi Canavan
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/167618
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/162247

February (111 Science Fiction) - The Stars My Destination by Alfred Bester
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/168681
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/167598

March (50 Mystery) - A Free Man of Color by Barbara Hambly
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/170968
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/170086

April (111 Nonfiction) - Agatha Christie by Agatha Christie
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/171599

May (1001 Fantasy) - Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert O'Brien
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/172825

June (111 Science Fiction) - Little Brother by Cory Doctorow
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/175247
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/174236

July (50 Mystery) - The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/177196
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/176125

August (111 Nonfiction) - Collapse by Jared Diamond
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/177921

September (1001 Fantasy) - The Prestige by Christopher Priest
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/179914
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/179599

October (111 Science Fiction) - Old Man's War by John Scalzi
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/181221
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/180577

November (50 Mystery) - Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/182518
NO SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/182029

December (111 Nonfiction) - An Anthropologist on Mars by Oliver Sacks
SPOILER: http://www.librarything.com/topic/183384

Group Read Links: http://www.librarything.com/topic/161490

***

The LT Green Dragon Book Club's next meeting is at the Ridgedale Barnes & Noble on Saturday, January 17th at 2pm. We are discussing The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black.

The WCC Daytime Book Club is on hiatus.

Current Challenges

(And why I'm not doing a category challenge this year.)

Completed/Total in List (as of 11/29/2014) - Added 66 books since 8/24/2014

Next book by favorite authors - 30/64 (+12) ("reset" when completed)
Next book in series by secondary authors - 13/47 (+0) ("reset" when completed)
TBR 2007 - 6/7
To Read 2009 - 3/5
2009 TBR List (different one) - 8/16 (+0) (read a book from all my best of lists each year)
2011 TBR Code List - 81/81 DONE
2012 TBR Code List - 72/81 (+2)
2013 TBR Code List - 59/81 (+2)
2014 TBR Code List - 40/81 (n/a)
TBR Next - 4/4 DONE
50 Books - 34/50
Misc Books - 11/11 DONE
1001 Fantasy (Green Dragon) - 157/462 (+2)
111 Nonfiction (Green Dragon) - 37/111 (+1)
111 Science Fiction (Green Dragon) - 54/111 (+1)
50 Mystery (Green Dragon) - 28/74 (+0)
50 States - 96/150 (+3)
Around the World in 80 Sleuths - 20/80 (+1)
888 Challenge - 92/95
12 in 12 Category Challenge - 171/207 (+1)
13 in 13 Category Challenge - 34/48 (+4)
Mercedes Lackey - 83/128 (+3)
Complete RAT - 4/4 DONE
Book Crossing Top 100 - 102/117 (+0)
Top 100 Fantasy - 123/209 (+1)

*Other challenges*
One book per month from the Green Dragon lists
One Stephen King per month (up to February 2013)
American Authors
Read more books than in 2013
Book Bingo

*Possible other challenges because I'm nuts*
A to Z Titles
Catch up on years of published dates in the last 100 years

I stole this from someone else at LT and tweaked the last few ratings. I can't give credit because I don't remember who I copied it from! Since I started using this I've noticed I've been handing out more 6's and less 7's.

My rating system:

10 stars - The book completely enthralled me. Could not put it down. Got something more out of it than just entertainment -- it enlightened or educated me in some way. Can definitely see myself reading it again. Will keep forever and never loan it out.

9 stars - Not quite perfect but almost so. I will actively push this book on my friends and family.

8 stars - A really great book in all respects with perhaps some minor flaws. Highly recommended.

7 stars - Better than average but with some flaws. Recommended.

6 stars - Average. An entertaining read but probably forgettable. Will not reread. Recommended for entertainment value to readers with similar interest.

5 stars - Slightly lower than average. Some aspects of the story, characters or writing troubled me. Probably will not recommend.

4 stars - Finished but did not like. Would not recommend.

3 stars - Had some redeeming qualities or else I couldn't have finished it. Nothing to recommend it though.

2 star - I can't believe I finished this book. What am I? A masochist?

1 star - No book ever gets this rating. If it's a 1, I can't finish it.

As of November 2014


visited 24 states (10.6%)
Create your own visited map of The World


visited 42 states (84%)
Create your own visited map of The United States

For the moment, I'm using just YA books on the YA card. But at the end of the year if I haven't filled it up, I reserve the right to go back and do so with adult books.

Regular Bingo: DONE

More than 500 pages: Princeps' Fury by Butcher, Jim
Forgotten Classic: Frederica by Heyer, Georgette
Book that became a movie: Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress by Dai, Sijie
Published this year: Murder of Crows by Anne Bishop
Number in the title: The Second Chance Dog by Jon Katz
Written by someone under 30: Shadow Magic by Patricia Wrede
Book with non-human characters: The Golem and the Jinni by Wecker, Helene
Funny Book: The Rook by Daniel O'Malley
Female Author: The Darkest Kiss by Arthur, Keri
Book with a mystery: Dead Simple by James, Peter
One-Word Title: MaddAddam by Atwood, Margaret
Book of short stories: Elementary by Lackey, Mercedes (ed.)
Set on a different continent: Broken Homes by Ben Aaronovitch
Non-Fiction: Evernote for Dummies by Sarna, David E. Y.
First book by a favourite author: Just One Damned Thing After Another by Jodi Taylor
Heard about online: Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Hoffman, Beth
Best-selling book: Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert O'Brien
Based on a true story: My Own Country by Verghese, Abraham
Book at the bottom of TBR pile: To Touch a Wild Dolphin by Rachel Smolker
Book my friend loves: Furry Logic by Jane Seabrook
Book that scares me: A Heartbeat Away by Michael Palmer
More than 10 years old: Death Comes for the Archbishop by Cather, Willa
Second book in a series: The Novice by Canavan, Trudi
Blue cover: An Unforgettable Lady by Bird, Jessica (Ward, J. R.)

YA Bingo Card: (11/29/2014)

Book with female heroine: Clariel by Nix, Garth
Book set in a high school: Little Brother by Doctorow, Cory
Last of a trilogy: City of Glass by Clare, Cassandra
Book with 'color' in the title:
First book in series: The House of the Four Winds by Mercedes Lackey
Book set in the future: Cress by Meyer, Marissa
Book with a break-up:
Book without a love triangle: Storm Thief by Wooding, Chris
Book that became a movie: The Westing Game by Raskin, Ellen
Book set in Paris:
Book set in the past:
Book with magic: Closer to Home by Mercedes Lackey
Book set in summer:
Book with a dragon: So You Want to be a Wizard by Duane, Diane
Book that made you cry:
Graphic novel: Cemetery Girl: The Pretenders by Harris, Charlaine
Book based on a myth:
Classic YA: Number the Stars by Lowry, Lois
Book with a Lion, Witch or Wardrobe: The Little White Horse by Goudge, Elizabeth
Book with an incredible fight scene: The Girl with the Iron Touch by Cross, Kady
Book heard about online: Liesl & Po by Oliver, Lauren
Book set in another world: Enna Burning by Hale, Shannon
Book with epic love story:
Book with music: Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Happy New Thread!

Happy New Thread, Morph!!

That Bingo game stuff is awesome. I'm impressed.

Great new thread, Morphy!

225. Blue Magic by A. M. Dellamonica
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #1 (bird in narrative - starlings/365), next in series
Library Description: Astrid's discovery of blue liquid magic was initially harmless, until it burst out of the ground, contaminated everything, and attracted power-hungry rebels. Astrid's friend has been corrupted by it, and leads a cult that seeks to rule the world.
Opinion: Solid enough sequel though confusing and slow at times. The ending was odd. Yes, it was a HEA but it felt slightly contrived as if the author said, "This bad thing has to happen, so I'll make this weird thing happen so everyone is happy in the end."
Rating: 7/10

226. Foundation and Empire by Isaac Asimov
Genre: Science Fiction
Notes: TIOLI #8 (read over 10 years ago), next in series
Library Description: The Foundation, a colony of psychologists, battles for supreme power in the galaxy.
Opinion: Simple adventure, fun but superficial. Characters don't have much depth - an Asimov weakness.
Rating: 7/10

227. Old Man's War by John Scalzi
Genre: Science Fiction
Notes: TIOLI #14 (dark), Green Dragon Lists (111 Science Fiction)
Library Description: With his wife dead, and life nearly over at 75, John takes the only logical course of action left: he joins the army. The Colonial Defense Force has extended its reach into interstellar space to pave the way for human colonization of other planets.
Opinion: This almost got a 9. It was interesting, I loved the world-building and I could barely put it down. Scalzi is an excellent writer. There was just a little too much military stuff and war scenes for my enjoyment. And sometimes I didn't like the main character very much.
Rating: 8/10

228. The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #10 (orange/black cover)
Library Description: When his father, the Emperor, and brothers are killed, an exiled half-goblin takes his place as heir. Unschooled in politics, he has no friends or advisors, and knows that whoever assassinated his family could make an attempt on his life at any time.
Opinion: Delightful story. Makes me wish that the reviews of the author's other books were better. I would go gobble them down. A little less angst and a little more peril (things came a bit too easy for our hero) would have made this a 9 or 10 star book.
Rating: 8/10

229. The Gates of Sleep
230. Phoenix and Ashes by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #13 (magic/horror tag) & TIOLI #12 (another by loved author - The Fire Rose), next in series, reread
Rating: 7/10 & 6/10

231. Between Planets by Robert Heinlein
Genre: Science Fiction
Notes: TIOLI #4 (older than me - 1951), to complete bibliography
Library Description: When war threatens to break out between Venus and Earth, a boy with citizenship on both planets, attending school on Earth but whose home is on Mars, finds himself in an awkward situation.
Opinion: Meh. I'm certainly not the audience for this book. It's aimed at older boys/young men. Lots of action, rebellion, and heroics. Very little in the way of characterization. Short and interesting enough to keep my attention but nothing else.
Rating: 5/10

232. No One Noticed the Cat by Anne McCaffrey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #12 (another by loved author - Crystal Singer), to complete bibliography
Library Description: On the death of a wise ruler, his cat inherits his wisdom and guides the young prince who takes over. With advice from Niffy, Prince Jamas outwits his enemies, saves his country and gains the hand of a princess.
Opinion: Nice way to while away a couple of hours on a rainy afternoon. Light, enjoyable adventure fantasy with a bit of magic, a bit of romance, and a lot of fun.
Rating: 7/10

233. The Julius House
234. Dead Over Heels
235. A Fool and His Honey
236. Last Scene Alive
237. Poppy Done to Death by Charlaine Harris
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #5 (S and T in title)/TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title)/TIOLI #6 (title starts with one letter)/TIOLI #18 (book on cover)/TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Description: Cozy mysteries about a part-time librarian in Georgia
Opinion: This series isn't Harris' best - it lacked depth and the main character was sometimes TSTL. I wanted to knock her upside the head. But the books made me laugh and cry. I'm glad I read them for all their cotton-candiness.
Rating: 7/6/6/7/6 of 10

238. Simon's Cat by Simon Tofield
Genre: Humor
Notes: TIOLI #5 (S and T in title)
Library Description: Originally created as a series of animated cartoons broadcast on youtube.com, Simon's Cat is a collection of drawings by London animator Simon Tofield featuring his cat Simon.
Opinion: I adore the Simon's Cat videos and so I looked forward to reading this. While I mostly enjoyed it, the videos invoke my funny bone more. With some of the static comics, I was confused on what he was trying to say.
Rating: 6/10

239. Sparrow Hill Road by Seanan McGuire
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #14 (dark - shared)
Library Description: Rose died in 1952, run off the road by a man who had sold his soul to live forever, and intended to use her death to pay the price of his immortality. It's been more than 60 years since that night, and she's still 16, and she's still running.
Opinion: I like McGuire's writing, world building and her characters are always interesting. Problems with this book were that it was episodic, the main character doesn't fight until the end (she just runs,) and the end is anti-climatic.
Rating: 7

240. The Prestige by Christopher Priest
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #13 (magic/horror tag), World Fantasy Award, Guardian 1000, Green Dragon Lists (1001 Fantasy)
Library Description: Two 19th century stage illusionists, the aristocratic Angier and the working-class Borden, engage in a bitter and deadly feud during the world of Victorian music halls; the effects are still being felt by their respective families a hundred years later.
Opinion: A rich and compelling story with too many loose ends. I wanted just a bit more from the book. A small nitpick - the psychic connection between Andrew and his dead relative makes no sense.
Rating: 7

Well, I first read Between Planets in 1959 when I was 10 years old--it was my second science fiction book ever--and for that reason it will always be a sentimental favorite for me. I loved the Venusian dragons and thought the female character was a hoot. But I know that is all because I encountered it at 10...

I thought No One Noticed the Cat was totally charming (being a cat person especially)--do you know that it's one of a couple McCaffrey wrote specifically for her granddaughter? Obviously aimed at a younger audience than most of her books.

I agree with you about the Asimov. The trilogy was one of the first books I ever bought--in fact, it was one of the books I got when I joined the Science Fiction Book Club in the early 60s--and I read it several times in my teens and loved it, but when I reread it some years ago realized how little characterization there is. I think Caves of Steel is maybe my favorite of his because of the characterization.

Also agree with you on Old Man's War.

And regarding The Goblin Emperor!

But I have to disagree with you on Sparrow Hill Road. I loved the way the episodic structure gradually brought things out of the shadows. My feeling is this was just the first half of the story--Rose certainly isn't going to give up on her mission at this stage, and I'm looking forward to the sequel.

I love the Simon's Cat videos more than the books as well--he captures the personality so much more fully in that medium.

The Fire Rose is still far the best of Lackey's fairytale retellings for me--I love that book.

Glad that equilibrium is reestablishing itself. I've completely fallen apart without the accountability thread--died in the HabitRPG environment and lost control of my eating and feeling it. I'm reminding you that my dad lost an eye to cancer and functioned very well with his glass eye afterwards.

Nice reviews! The only ones I've read (so far) are Foundation and Empire and The Prestige, but some of the authors (McCaffrey, Heinlein, and Lackey) are/were favorites. I thought I'd read everything McCaffrey wrote but apparently missed the cat one, perhaps because it's aimed at a younger audience? You got me though with Fire Rose and Old Man's War, and maybe Goblin Emperor and the McCaffrey.

Oh! HabitRPG! I wonder what ever happened to that. I think I put it on hold (took a little vaca from it ~ a couple of months ago) and completely forgot about it! Suppose I should get back to it. One of these days.

Hi Morphy! Wow. I am amazed at how many books you've read this year - Kudos!!!!

Doesn't this look like an excellent Sunday plan?

>15 Storeetllr: McCaffrey has several little tiny books - literally, they're (the ones I've seen) about 3x5 inches, or 5 inches square. Hardbacks, with dust covers, and skinny. There's not a lot of story in them, but what there is is great - I love No One Noticed the Cat and If Wishes Were Horses, not so much in love with - oh, not a McCaffrey, though it's the same kind of little book. The Gratitude of Kings by Marion Zimmer Bradley (yeah, that's another reason not to read it...).

Several favorites of mine in this batch (about the same as ronincats, what a surprise). I haven't yet read Old Man's War, though I intend to - what I've read of Scalzi I've enjoyed, still have a lot to get around to though.

>15 Storeetllr: I did the same thing with HabitRPG - started it, got bored, wandered away (without putting myself in the Tavern, unfortunately...), got hooked again and am using it steadily now. I died quite a bit while I was away, and the (few) Dailies I had went solid red - but I've gotten most of them back up to reasonable levels (OK, for some of them I cheated, deleted and recreated them). It's taking me quite a while to work out a good sequence of tasks, that keep me going without frustrating me. But it's fun, at least for now. I'm beginning to think that that plus Regularly just _might_ suit me as my primary To-Do list, if/when they get recurring To-Dos set up. And if the rest of my life ever calms down enough, I might go poking around in there and help make it happen - I'd love to contribute some coding to the site (and app).

Happy new thread, Morphy!

Happy New Thread, Morphy. I'm impressed how many books you've read this year. I'll be happy when reaching 70.

Morning Morph! I have not read Scalzi. I heard Old Man's War is a good place to start.

Morphy, I am impressed with how good a job you do with your short reviews. I like the elements you use to develop your overall judgments. Excellent.

>7 Kassilem: >8 msf59: >10 ronincats: >18 MickyFine: Welcome to my last (?) thread of the year!

>9 maggie1944: Pain in the butt though. I won't be doing one again next year.

>14 ronincats: Re: Between Planets - Exactly. If I had read it at 10 or 11, I would have liked it, too. Even if it was a "boy book." No One Noticed the Cat is dedicated to her granddaughter. I like Asimov despite his little quirks. Re: Sparrow Hill Road I tend to not like books that are episodic. Or at least they lose a star for it. It's a thing... I've read the cover off The Fire Rose twice now. Is your dad alive? If not, how long did he live after diagnosis?

>15 Storeetllr: I've read a lot of McCaffrey but I'm working through her bibliography and she was rather prolific.

>16 LauraBrook: >19 Ameise1: Ha! Just wait. I'm SO far behind in reviews. I have forty-ish left to post! I'm (creating and) posting them five at a time so my thread isn't a wall of reviews.

>17 jjmcgaffey: I'm hoping we get hopping tomorrow at HabitRPG and start up a new quest. I'll invite you as soon as we do.

>20 msf59: It's the first book of his I've read and I'm certainly impressed.

>21 maggie1944: Thanks. I don't much like writing reviews but I figure I should say something. Short and pithy - that's me.

They often come across as more negative than I would like. It's easier to say what I *don't* like about a book rather than what I do like. I imagine a person reads my review and thinks I didn't like it but then looks at the rating and it's a 7 or 8. Trust the rating!

>22 Morphidae: I'm half-done with the second Vice quest - should be done by the 2nd, and can join then.

So, what is HabitRPG? The first time I saw the word I thought it was HobbitRPG.

Morphy, he lived another 15 years after the surgery, a full and productive life, was finally brought down with liver cancer.

Stopping by your lovely new thread to wish you a Happy Sunday!

Happy New Thread, Morphy! I liked Old Man's War, too. I read the couple following, and then I fell off the Scalzi train. A lot of LTers have liked Redshirts, which sounds like a fun spoof, maybe a la Galaxy Quest.

241. Closer to Home by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #5 (S and T in title), to complete bibliography
Library Description: Trained as a spy by the King's Own Herald, an orphan named Mags rises through the ranks of the Heralds' Collegium and uses his powerful Mindspeech gift to outmaneuver a royal court plot that risks his mentor and family.
Opinion: First in a new series and it's quite decent; however, everything goes a little too perfectly. This is light and fluffy even for Lackey. It was a comfy read though.
Rating: 7

242. The Plot Against America by Philip Roth
Genre: Fiction
Notes: TIOLI #14 (dark), LTMP
Library Description: In a novel of alternative history, aviation hero Charles A. Lindbergh defeats Franklin Roosevelt in the 1940 presidential election, negotiating an accord with Adolf Hitler and accepting his conquest of Europe and anti-Semitic policies.
Opinion: While Roth is a good writer there was too much preaching. Also, I never really felt afraid for the characters and I felt distant emotionally from them. Lastly, there was a big build up and you expected something horrible to happen that never came to pass.
Rating: 6

243. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Genre: Fiction
Notes: TIOLi #9 (Heartland Prize - shared), Around the World (13 in 13 - Nigeria)
Library Description: A young woman from Nigeria leaves behind her home and her first love to start a new life in America, only to find her dreams are not all she expected.
Opinion: While Adichie is an excellent writer and tells a good story, I have a real thing against cheating/adultery. When the main character does such a thing, it turns my stomach. This book lost one star for it.
Rating: 7

244. Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
Genre: YA
Notes: TIOLI #10 (orange and black)
Library Description: Set over the course of one school year in 1986, this is the story of two star-crossed misfits--smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try
Opinion: Realistic and heart-breaking. Great story. The entire local LT Book club enjoyed it and we all thought it realistically portrayed teenagers during the 80s.
Rating: 8

245. Poison Fruit by Jacqueline Carey
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #17 (UK independence - US), next in series
Library Description: With a new predator on the loose, Daisy Johanssen, liaison to the Norse goddess of the dead, fights harder than usual to keep the paranormal residents of Pemkowet under control.
Opinion: I've enjoyed Daisy's story over the last three books. I wasn't all that impressed with the first book but the series grew on me. My major complaint, especially obvious in this third and final book, is that the romance feels shoved in. "This series won't sell unless it has romance! So put some in here, here, and here! Oh, and don't forget to make it a love triangle!" Thankfully, Carey handled the triangle with some grace and class. And the HEA isn't all wrapped up in a pretty ribbon.
Rating: 7

Happy new thread, Morphy! I see you've been keeping very busy with reading lately! Lots of great reviews here.

I just got the next in Rowland's demon series, so I'll be sure to tell you how I liked it when I finish (one of my self-presents on Black Friday / Thanksgiving evening shopping!). :)

Give my love to Mr. M, please! I think about you both often...even though I'm not here much you are in my heart! (((Morph)))

>24 maggie1944: HabitRPG is a cross between a to-do list and a role-playing game - you list off to-dos, daily tasks, and habits you want to acquire (or lose), then check them off appropriately. When you check them off, you get Experience Points (XP) which let you level up. You can do quests, where either you're collecting stuff with a chance to find an item every time you check something off, or you're fighting a monster and the XP you gain does it damage. If you don't finish your dailies, it will damage you (and your partners, if you're in a group). You can also find eggs and hatching potions that let you hatch pets, and you can feed them up to become mounts.

The game part is fun, the to-do list part is useful (having to check off dailies to keep from taking damage really motivates me to do them!). You can put in only a few things that you do, or lots of stuff - I'm kind of middle-of-the-road, with a bunch of things that tend to slip listed (like, drink water, or get up early/on time).

It's a website and an app - the app doesn't quite have all the features of the website, and the whole thing is open-source and under constant development. You can get credit for helping out if you do things like code a new feature or make new art (the pictures are neat, the mounts and pets and such), or a few other things.

It's not for everyone - we get people that want to treat it purely as a game, in which case it's way too easy even if you don't bother to cheat (which is very easy to do - just make lots of items and check them off). Or people who just want a to-do list and the game part is annoying. But it works for me.

Happy new thread, Morphy! Lovely to see more of your book reviews, though they are dangerous for my wishlist! I really have to get The goblin emperor as so many people have sung its praises. I see that the paperback is released in March 2015, so I'll try to hold out until then ...

Hi Morphy. I'm stopping by to see how you are, and how Mr. Morphy is doing.

I send continued prayers and all good wishes.

Thanks to Jennifer for explaining. I'm giving it a try as it really helps me to have an accountability system in place. I'm still learning how to manage myself for an easy, stress free, living which gives plenty of time to read!

Morphy, as I said before, I love your short reviews.

>28 Morphidae: I have a signed copy of The Plot Against America but I've never finished it. Put it down about page 100 never picked it up again.

Kind of book where you want to say "Yeah I get the idea already".

Oh good, I'm glad Eleanor and Park worked for you, Morphy. I thought that one was a standout. It caused me to go and read her other ones, although not her most recent yet.

Happy New Thread, lady!

Wow, lots of great book reviews here. I am another one who loved The Fire Rose and because of that one book, Mercedes Lackey is one of my favorite authors. I have Old Man's War on my wishlist, it seems most everyone likes it, so I am looking forward to actually getting to it.

With Morphy"s permission, I am posting the link to my fundraiser for wrist surgery here. Please help if you can. Thanks! https://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/help-stephanie-pay-for-wrist-surger...

Hooray, for another thread Morphy. Yep, I have to leave here very quickly as there are far too many BB's for my taste. I am glad to read your reviews again :)

Happy new thread, Morphy! As you know, I LOVE your short and pithy reviews - they always make me smile and sometimes they make me laugh out loud. Hoping that Wednesday was kind to you.

>23 jjmcgaffey: Sent you a PM. I haven't heard hide nor hair from the rest of the party. Next Monday I'll start a new one if there has been no response.

>24 maggie1944: HabitRPG really is a lot of fun. I can totally see you putting in a ton of Dailies though and killing yourself off. LOL!

>25 ronincats: How old was he when his eye was removed?

>26 lkernagh: Thank you! It was lovely. How was yours?

>27 jnwelch: How were the follow ups to Old Man's War? I was thinking about reading them.

>29 TinaV95: I gobbled the Rowland's up after the 3rd or so. Now I have to wait until next year. *sobs*

>30 jjmcgaffey: I don't cheat. No no, not me. I do everything I've checked off on my list, every day. Uh huh.

>31 Sakerfalcon: You really should read The Goblin Emperor. It's going to be a re-read for me at some point.

>32 Whisper1: Same to you!

>33 maggie1944: Thanks! They'll never get much longer, I assure you.

>34 magicians_nephew: I kept thinking something was going to happen... right up until the end!

>35 jnwelch: It was certainly good enough that I'll try something else by Rowell.

>36 scaifea: Thanks, hon!

>37 DeltaQueen50: I've worn the covers off two copies of The Fire Rose. It's my favorite go-to comfort read.

>38 AuntieClio: I wish you the best.

>39 drachenbraut23: No, noooo, staaay! Get hit! Get hit! Pow pow pow! :D

>40 Crazymamie: Awww, thanks! Actually, it's been kind of a sucky day. Depression + PMS = Mucho Waterworks. I'll be settling down on the couch under warm blankets to some comfort food (pasta + cheese, ice cream) and a comfort read (The Curse of Chalion by Bujold) shortly. Tomorrow is another day!

Looks like you are getting some great reading in, Morph! Americanah has been high on my To-Read list. Sadly, I will not be able to get to it this year. I also loved Eleanor & Park. I might be reading Fangirl soon. Have you read that one?

"Mucho Waterworks"

Tell me about it! Depression isn't an issue, but I've always been a crier. Lately, with the whole menopause thing making itself evident, you can't even look at me without me dissolving into tears. And I can hardly watch the news without something setting me off. Even good things get me going.

So don't the warm blanket and the ice cream cancel each other out?

Morphy, he was 55.

Hey, at least you are settling in with a REALLY good book! Hope tomorrow is better.

I'm sorry to hear that you've had a rough time of it today, and here's hoping that the cheese and ice cream are extra-delicious. (What kinds? I need to know these things.) Also, there's a package winging its way Morphyward...

I promise I won't kill myself with too many Daily Tasks. But the To Do list is a killer. I've not done one thing to accomplish those tasks.

he he he

>41 Morphidae: I sometimes check something off before it's actually done...but I make sure I do it that day. And I set my Custom Day Start to 4 am, to be (pretty) sure of cron not happening before I go to sleep...

I'll look for the PM. The new PM system on HRPG is a little annoying - as far as I can see, there's absolutely no way to send to someone you're not in a party with who's not posting in the Tavern or a guild you know about. Can't get to anyone else's profile, to send a message, except by clicking on their name in a post. Which may be intentional - to keep people from spamming - but really frustrating when you're out of party...

>46 maggie1944: I do get my Dailies done, pretty much. But my To-Dos get redder and redder (they change color as they sit, from yellow (neutral) to orange to red). I do occasionally get something done, and I check off checkboxes (partial to-dos) now and then, but my list isn't getting much shorter. Bah. It does remind me I have these tasks to accomplish, though.

>41 Morphidae: I love Fire Rose too - my favorite of that series. I like a lot of Lackeys, but that one just works for me. And the fact that I now live in the San Francisco Bay Area just makes it better (read and loved it before I moved here, though).

It's been a pretty null day for me, too. The fact that it's pouring rain helped, but I slept until nearly noon, then sat around and read stuff online, then (now) I'm going to scan some covers, eat my second meal of the day (and read a book) and go back to bed. I'm not sick, I don't think, just...low energy. And I checked myself into the Tavern when I woke up, so I won't get hit for not doing all (any) of my Dailies.

Hope today was decent and that tomorrow is even better!!

>41 Morphidae: Warm blankets, comfort food and The curse of Chalion sounds like the recipe for a perfect day! I hope it did the trick and you are feeling better.

Poor little tyke died again today when I logged in. He's shrinking fast, but there's just too much commotion in my life this week. I guess I should have put her on vacation, but at least I'm doing a few things and it doesn't affect anyone else this week.

I have my LTER reads in my To Do list :-)

>41 Morphidae: The follow-ups to Old Man's War: I read nos. 2 and 3, Morphy, and never got to the 4th one, Zoe's Tale. Neither of the first two sequels reached the level of Old Man's War for me, but I thought the second one in the series, The Ghost Brigades, was very good. The Last Colony also was good, but wore me out a bit, so I never got to the fourth. I still may read it some day, especially if I see some raves on LT.

How's today for you? Better, I hope.

In regards to Old Man's War I really enjoyed this one, but never finished the second one. Somehow the second one was to technically for me and I just couldn't get into it.

>41 Morphidae: You see :) I have come back, also I initially run.

Morphy, I wish you a fabulous weekend.

{{{Morphidae}}}

Morphy I hope you are doing better.

>42 msf59: No Eleanor & Park is the only one I've read by Rowell but I'll certainly look into more by her.

>43 SylviaC: Exactly. The ice cream and blanket cancel each other out so I don't get too cold or too warm. It's just right!

>44 ronincats: Er, my husband is 55. I want more than 15 years!

>45 scaifea: Baked Prego (cooked ground beef, Prego, and cooked ziti mixed together, sprinkled with cheddar, baked for 20 minutes) and Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Brownie. B&J's New York Super Fudge Chunk used to be my favorite but the store was out of it once and I got Brownie instead. Now it's my favorite because as much as I loved Chunk, you got more chunk than ice cream.

>46 maggie1944: Uuuuugh. In the last month I've been awful with my to do list. I am determined though to get it cleaned up by the end of the year.

>47 jjmcgaffey: I haven't even tried the PM system in HRPG. I meant an LT PM. You should have an invite to the party now. No response in 5 days makes Morphy's an unhappy girl. We'll make our own party!

>48 Berly: >49 Sakerfalcon: >52 laytonwoman3rd: >56 luvamystery65: The depression is slooooowly getting better. I may need to go see my doctor about it though. I'll give it another week.

>50 streamsong: Awww. If you are still interested, I've started up a new party, LibraryThingers to do quests together. If you know that if you miss dailies it will hurt other members of the team, it gives a bit of impetus!

>51 jnwelch: I'll try the second one then and see how it goes.

>53 drachenbraut23: Just wait until I have time to finish my 40+ more reviews. Bwhahahaha.

>54 Ameise1: Thanks.

>55 MDGentleReader: Hugs right back at ya, dearie!

***

MrMorphy ended up getting a tooth pulled this morning. He's not a happy camper especially as it was an upper molar and there is a little channel between the hole and his sinus. Oh boy.

I'm off to binge eating group this afternoon and will be taking MetroMobility as MrMorphy isn't supposed to lift anything heavy for 24 hours. Taking MetroMobility adds two to three hours to the appointment. I'm going prepared with two books (Kindred and What Jane Austen Ate and Charles Dickens Knew), my Nook, my iPad and my Nano with Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on it. I can't read on the bus but there will be an hour wait after group before the bus will pick me up.

Tomorrow will be a quiet day to work on my to do list which is very behind!

Lastly, if anyone is interested in joining the LibraryThingers HabitRPG quest group let me know and I'll tell you how to join! HabitRPG's a fun way to work on your daily and on-going to do lists and quests allow you to get extra experience, special pets and equipment, and more gold!

>57 Morphidae: Yuck about his tooth getting pulled. I actually went to the dentist this morning and just getting a cleaning was bad enough.

I can't imagine what people do on public transportation without books. Enjoy your reading time, even if it means waiting around for a bus. What Jane Austen Ate and Charleston Dickens Knew has long been on my TBR.

My sister read What Jane Austen Ate... and loved it - found it very useful for her regency romances, too (she's an author - some short stories traditionally pubbed and she's now self-pubbing some of her novels). I haven't managed it yet, but would like to.

Morphy, I wanted more than 15 more years for my dad as well. It is essential to be very vigilant for possible recurrences of cancer after this one is removed. The diagnostic equipment at that time and in the middle of small town America were not sufficient to find the cancer in my Dad's liver despite weight loss and other indicators something was not right until they did an actual biopsy and it was inoperable by then. I would expect a better prognosis in this day and age for Mr. Morphy.

ETA that was 24 years ago.

>57 Morphidae: I started reading What Jane Austen Ate And Charles Dickens Knew the same day! It's been on my shelves for almost 20 years, and when I was going through my books I rediscovered it and decided that its' time had finally come. How are you liking it so far?

Sorry to hear about MrM's tooth extraction. Not fun, no matter which tooth is involved, but that particular one sounds really rough!

Kindred is one of Butler's books that I have not yet read, mostly because I tend to dislike time travel novels, so I plan to finish the rest of her novels before trying this one. I do love what I've read of her stuff ~ Fledgling and Wild Seed top the list, though I enjoyed the first of the Xenogenesis trilogy. I haven't read What Jane Austin Ate, because I didn't get to it soon enough before I had to return it to the library, and what I did read made me think I wanted to own it so I could dip into it whenever I wanted.

Hope you had a productive commute yesterday and a good meeting!

Yuck! Metro Mobility! I was just talking to Jerome about it the other day. Remember in the '90s when it was so bad that the National Guard took it over for a few weeks. I don't think it's gotten any better since then. Hope your books didn't let you down. And hope the Angel of Good Health visits Mr. Morphy soon.

I'm stopping by to say that you and Mr. Morphy are very much on my mind and in my prayers. I am so sorry you are going through all this.

Hi Morphy, just checking in.

By the way, caught you double counting ;0) Not that it matters much when you're already over 3x 75 books read. Hmm ... can I borrow some of yours to beef up my list?

Keep your chin up!

PS : with all these photos of old boyfriends, isn't Mr M. going to get jealous?

**waving hello**

>65 humouress: You know, I wondered that about the jealous thing myself. I'm guessing Mr. M knows how lucky he is to be The One, and just sticks his tongue out and says Nyah, Nyah, Nyah! to all those other guys.

>65 humouress:, >67 laytonwoman3rd:. Besides, those are the guys she had to go through in order to understand just what a wonderful guy MrMorphy is. How could she properly appreciate him if she hadn't had to put up with those lesser fellows first?

Morphy, I wish you a fabulous weekend.

>58 RosyLibrarian: >59 jjmcgaffey: >61 LauraBrook: I do enjoy What Jane Austen Ate - though the first part better than the second. The second is the glossary and I'm now in the h's. I don't read much at once. Perhaps ten pages? Not because it's bad, but... glossary.

>60 ronincats: Yes, a bit different now. We're near a major city know for its health care (Minneapolis,) with one of the best clinics (Park Nicollet,) and he'll be getting a chest and abdomen CT scan regularly (3-, 6-, then 12-months) for the rest of his life. (Whether he likes it or not!)

>62 Storeetllr: MrMorphy has had rougher dental work. I'm happy to say he hasn't been in much pain especially once the passage closed up. What Jane Austen Ate is certainly the type of book to own. I've had to take it out at least a couple times. It might even have been three times.

>63 cammykitty: I've only been taking MetroMobility for a few years. It's a pain in the butt but when it's the only alternative, I'll take it!

>64 Whisper1: Thank you. I appreciate the time you took to stop by especially considering your own woes.

>65 humouress: *TWITCH* Double counting?!? WHERE? I MUST FIX! *TWITCHES violently*

>65 humouress: >67 laytonwoman3rd: >68 MDGentleReader: AHEM, and it is all ONE boyfriend. ONE! His name was Brett and he was my first husband. It lasted two years. MrMorphy and I have been together over 25 years, married over 24. What does he have to be jealous about? He won!

Besides, Brett and I were attached at the hip from when we started dating when I was 17 until we separated when I was 24. I don't have any (or hardly any) pictures of me without him in them when I was an older teen!

>66 maggie1944: Hello, hello!

>69 Ameise1: Thanks.

Today I went to the Gillespie Center to help with "Santa's Treasures" where kids (3 to 12) pick out presents for their family for Christmas. The kids go through the room alone if they are old enough or with high school volunteers for the younger ones. They buy presents with tickets. There are tables for presents worth one through six tickets ($0.50 to $3.00.) The presents are items Hidden Treasures has received as donations or inexpensive items bought with donations. Other volunteers are in another room to put the presents in decorative bags. In the last section, parents wait and the kids can watch Christmas movies. There is also food to eat, games for the kids, and pictures with Santa. This is the third year I've done it and I always get a kick out of it.

That must be so much fun to help out with! What was your job, Morphy?

>70 Morphidae: Oops, sorry! I could be wrong, but have a look at number 230.:0o

>71 Morphidae: I just bet you get a kick out of it. It sounds like fun.

>72 SylviaC: I took tickets!

>73 humouress: Nope, you were right. All corrected. When I got caught up with my reviews I would have checked the numbers, it would have been off, and it would have taken forever for me to find it. Thank you!

>74 Morphidae: It was! The kids are so adorable and the high school helpers (mostly all girls this year) were sweet and patient.

Oh, that looks like so much fun! And what a wonderful thing for the kids!

>71 Morphidae: Oooh, what a fantastic idea! I may have to take this to the PTO...

Knowing how you and MrM feel about Star Trek, did you see the Make It So Christmas Song as you made your way through the threads?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RrG4JnrN5GA

Love the kids' shopping idea. Kids love to give as well as receive, bless their generous little hearts.

>75 Storeetllr: It really is. They have a great time.

>76 scaifea: It's a lot of work. They will start again in January, storing what was left. Then between collecting holiday cards for bags, making tags, making bags, collecting gifts, buying gifts, writing tags, and putting tags on gifts, it's a year long project.

>77 streamsong: Oh yes. I've seen it a few times and every time it makes me laugh.

This is the non-Christmas video that is currently making me laugh like a loon. When MrMorphy first showed it to me, I laughed so hard I had an asthma attack.

https://33.media.tumblr.com/f15bd92cbb910b42b684995c2d8ea3ee/tumblr_mv4v53D3cX1s...

You will have had to have seen the kitten version to get it though. Otherwise it makes no sense.

***

I talked with the doctor's office today and have an appointment with her next Monday. I'm also going to speak with the therapist at group tonight. He's the one I would see if I go back into therapy. This depression will not let go. I don't want to leave the house, I'm gaining a lot of weight because of binge eating, and I cry every day. I've canceled many appointments/meetings and I'm getting fussed at (a little) for missed deadlines. I just don't feel like doing anything or going anywhere. Ever. I want to escape into eating and reading and never ever come out.

I know this isn't normal and I know it's the depression talking. But right now I don't care. It's taking everything I can do just to make that call for help and to get to group tonight. I want to call and tell them I can't make it. I'd lie to get out of it. But I know I can't do that as much as I want to. I did it two weeks ago and the group is so small that if there are too many attendance problems, they will have to cancel the group.

I've been having problems with getting showered every day. For most people this isn't much of an issue, for me it can be very, very bad. I have yeast issues under my belly folds and unless I keep myself exceptionally clean. it can flare up badly. Well, it's flaring so badly my skin is splitting and bleeding. Not just a little either. Enough that I need a washcloth to get it all cleaned up. That's from skipping just two showers in the last week and two nights of maintenance. Which makes me more depressed, so I don't feel like getting up to shower, etc. Welcome to my nightmare.

No matter how much or how little I sleep, I'm exhausted.

About the only good thing is that when the nurse asked if I was safe, I was able to say yes. I haven't had any thoughts of self-harm. I think it's because that with all the years of therapy and experience that I know that eventually I WILL come out of this.

I am glad that you recognize that you will come out of it. Still sucks. It seems so cruel that the consequences are so high for just skipping a shower. I skip my daily bath and I have greasy hair - not the same at all.

{{{{Morphy}}}} Once again, my arms are just too darn short.

My depression is MOSTLY explained by The Depression of Grief. It's still no fun. Too much loss this last year and then my brother's household of four each have a prescription for morphine including their two small children. We need good health and good news really badly in our family - now. So do the Morphys.

I am so glad that you are pushing yourself to get help. I admire you so very much.

{{{{Morphy}}}}

I want so much to lead you out of your nightmare.

>78 Morphidae: {{{{{Morphy}}}}}

>79 MDGentleReader: {{{{{Sheila}}}}}

Thinking of you, Morphy, and sending caring thoughts your way.

>78 Morphidae: You can still laugh, and you are seeking help, so you have a grip on the lifeline that you can follow out of this spell of depression. I hope it happens soon, Morphy.

>78 Morphidae: Hugs. :(

Morphy, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you a load of good vibes. hugs xx

Hi Morphy. I think it must be a good sign that you recognize what is happening with you and that you know you need help and are going to make the effort to get it. You've had a very tough year and I sure hope talking with the experts will help you work through things. Obviously it's not going to get better right away, but small steps will eventually lead to your feeling better.

(((Hugs))

(((Hugs)))

>51 jnwelch: I liked Zoe's tale very much, but agree that Old Man's War was the strongest.

Morphy, I know the lies depression tells you are really seductive, and easy to believe. When you can, remind yourself they are nothing but lies and keep reaching out. I am sorry you are going through this.

Oh, Morphy. Dingdangit, I makes me sad and mad (I'm smad!) that you have to go through this, and I hope that you can get the help you need to get out of this bout soon. Especially when you bring such joy to others - I know of one little guy in particular who looks forward every morning to the little bit of happiness you've sent along every day this month...

Sweetie, I'm so sorry you are feeling so much pain. I am hoping that step by step you can find your path out of the darkness and back into the light of enjoying life, yourself, and your very nice husband. Are you able to appreciate and enjoy the accountability systems you've found on line? HabitsRBG, or the diet site. (stupid me, I can't remember the name of it right now) I've been trying to use a check list on white boards in my bedroom, and making the bed every day is still my great go to start point. Silly how little things like that can sometimes just get me off on the right foot. I hope some of these can provide some support for you, too.

Morning Morph! Sorry to hear about your continuing travails. I hope you can get this reversed and start feeling better. Hugs!

Just checking in. I contracted for safety last night and will have a therapist calling me today. Not up to posting replies at the moment but wanted to say that I appreciate the warmth and support. Thank you.

Holding you close in my heart, Morphy.

You're in my thoughts. :(

Hugs and prayers for you Morphy.

Morphy, I am so very glad that you made that decision. My heart aches that it got to that point, though.

*** pulls you close for a long wordless hug ***

I read yesterday it takes 20 seconds for a hug to start the oxytocin going. You obviously need lots more of it circulating in your system.

When you are able remember that we are all here offering support.

{{{{Morphy}}}}

(((Hugs)))

I have an appointment with the headache specialist this afternoon for the headache I've had since I got viral meningitis back in August. I'm sure she'll have some ideas.

I hope she does have some good ideas. I know how constant pain can be hugely debilitating. Exhausting. I'll be thinking of you, and sending positive whammies.

Oh, Morphy. I wish we were closer so we could all help each other some more. Depression is an awful thing, and even though you've gotten yourself out of it before, sometimes it doesn't seem like that's possible each time. I'm so glad that you're asking for help, since that's often the hardest part (at least for me).

(((Morphy)))

Hugs and prayers!

Something told me to skip my exercise and reading tonight and get on LT. I call it God / some call it intuition...I knew I needed to check in on you!

Depression is awful! Been there, done that, bought the 4x T-shirt!

Sending you a PM right now! Love to you!

Sending positive vibes and prayers to you, Morphy. Depression is a horrible thing.

(Mr Morphy posting)
My sweet lady is currently in the hospital, tentatively until Monday. I'm sure she'll post if/when she can but with only her I-Pad it's a bit problematical. Prayers/good wishes appreciated.

Eek! Thinking of you, Morphy! Fingers crossed for a quick recovery.

Hugs, prayers and good wishes to you both. Thanks so much for the update.

Thank you for letting us know, MrMorphy. We really appreciate the update.

Morphy, I wish you a rapid recovery, and send you lots of love and healing thoughts.

>104 Morphidae: I'm glad you are getting help, Morphy. Thanks for keeping us posted, MrMorphy. Thinking of you both.

> #104 - prayers and good wishes for speedy and thorough recovery.

***stopping by with loads of good wishes for Morphy houehold***

I hope stay is short and effective, and I hope MrMorphy is feeling supported and cared about also. I really wish the very best for you both as soon as it can be delivered!

oh my. my thoughts are with you both.

Sending prayers, prayers, and more prayers for you Morphy!

Echoing the above - hoping the best for both of you. You are in my thoughts.

Me, too, Morphy. Sending you both positive thoughts.

{{{Morphy}}} Prayers and good wishes for a fast and full recovery winging their way to you.

More good thoughts are been send along to the Morphy household. Thinking of you both.

Oh, Morphy! Sending all sorts of good vibes your way, friend. And thanks, Mr. Morphy, for keeping us posted!

Not really much to add, just wanted to echo everyone else and say you're in my thoughts and prayers.

What everyone else is saying! Best wishes for both of you.

Absolutely, prayers and good energy are being sent North to both of you.... you have had one hell of a year, and 2015 will surely be better for you both!!!

(((Morphy Household)))

Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, Morphy.

Oh, sorry it has come to this, but very hopeful this stay will bring about the healing you need, Morphy. Keeping you in my thoughts, both of you.

{{{MrMorphy}}}

{{{Morphy}}}

Sending healing and uplifting thoughts.

Yup, me too.

Thanks for your thoughts. I'm being well taken care of. I should be released on Monday with a plan for immediate intensive therapy. Thank you for being my friends throughout this awful year. You have been exceptionally patient and kind listening to my woes.

Gentle hugs and sending you a load of positive vibes.

So good to hear from you! I hope all is going as well as can be expected.

Know you are loved by your virtual buddies.

Take care, Morphy. I wish you the best.

Thanks for the update, Morph! Hugs and supportive vibes, heading your way.

Good to hear!

>125 Morphidae: I am so glad to hear from you and glad there is a plan to get you through this and out the other side.

As for listening to your woes - that's what friends are for. Just wish I could lessen the number and intenseness of the woes.

{{{Morphy}}}

> #125 good to hear from you- hope this is a turning point for all the bad stuff to end.

>125 Morphidae: Good, good, good....I'm glad you will be home soon, with a plan for moving forward toward wellness.

Thanks for the update, Morphy, and glad you have a plan to deal with this. Like everyone else on this thread, I hope this is a turning point and all the bad stuff ends so 2015 is a stellar year for you and MrM. More {{{M & MrM}}}

Glad to hear there is a plan and you have support, Morphy!

Morphy - I haven't been getting around the threads much for the last few weeks so I've missed your latest problems. Sending my best wishes and hopes that you will soon be home.

Glad you're getting good help, Morphy. Best wishes to you and Mr. M for a much better and easier 2015.

Me, too Morphy. Find a good song and sing it. Well, it works for me, it's just hard to do it. Take care, and to your hubby too.

Tropical hugs from here for you both too Morphy. Wishing 2015 is a darn sight happier for many of us.

I haven't been on the threads much, so sorry now to see what a difficult time you've been having. I can only echo the thoughts of others. Hugs to you, and my thoughts and prayers are with you. It is good that you are getting good help.

Fingers and toes crossed and thumbs held that you are feeling better and are able to come home tomorrow.

I'm in for at least another day. If I do okay without somebody with me, I should be able to go home tomorrow.

Hugs xx

{{{{Morphy}}}}

Healing wishes to you, Morphy.

>143 Morphidae: We're ALL with you, Morphy.

*Gentle hugs*

A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Morphy! I hope the new year will bring you all the best for you and Mr. Morphy.

I'm home. I'll respond to posts as I can.

I am so glad that you are home. I hope that with support you'll continue to pull out of this.

{{{{Morphy}}}}

I'm glad to hear you're home in time for Christmas Morphy, but hopefully it's home in a slightly better frame of mind (I suffer from depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, the works, so I kind of know) and have the steps in place to be able to take care of yourself in an appropriate way, without taking steps back now you're not having 24hr care.

Anyway, I've been thinking of you and glad MrMorph gets to spend Christmas with you at home.

Big hugs for you, Morphy.

Yup! Thinking and feeling the good thoughts to you both. I hope the holidays holds a good deal of joy for you both, you deserve it, for sure!

Take your time here, Morphy, we can wait until you have the energy and the inclination to participate.

So glad you are home for Christmas, Morphy!

It's Chrismas Eve's eve, and so I am starting the rounds of wishing my 75er friends the merriest of Christmases or whatever the solstice celebration of their choice is.

Glad to hear you're home Morphy. I hope your Christmas is peaceful. Please don't get stressed about answering everyone's messages.

yay! Christmas Eve day. It is here. One more day, and then a week, and then one more day, and we'll be into a brand new year! Best wishes, dear friend.

Hi Morphy, glad hear that you are home my dear and wishing both you and Mr Morphy a peaceful and stressfree Christmas. Have a lovely day tomorrow and sending special love and hugs from Yorkshire.

Yay!! She's home!!!

I hope you have a wonderful, quiet, restful and *happy* Christmas, dear, dear friend.

I really need to learn new habits. I got home yesterday then spent two hours on the phone making various personal business calls. From the stress of it all, I then proceeded to fall into the same bad eating habits. I have to find another way.

I hope you enjoy your Christmas weekend and that you will take some time for yourself to push away the stress.

I find what works for me is being very, very gentle with myself. Sometimes I need to put fun (non-food) stuff and tender, personal care stuff ahead of chores or I get stressed and resentful and stress eat. Sometimes this is very hard for me to do - that is when I need it the most, though.

Seending you warm, healing thoughts and echoing >156 SylviaC:. Please, don't add to your stress by feeling a need to give individual responses. Personally, I'll take it as a sign that you are putting yourself first for once and reducing the have-tos in your life.

{{{{Morphy}}}

May you have a peaceful, restorative Christmas. You are often in my thoughts and prayers.

Merry Christmas, Morphy! I hope the tide begins to turn for you.

Happy Holidays!

Morphy, just dropping by to wish you a Happy Christmas and hope that 2015 brings some better luck for you and yours.

From our family to yours!

So glad that you are home for Christmas, Morphy. Hope you and Mr. M have a wonderful holiday.

Doing the rounds with a festive Connie to wish you a very Merry Christmas full of joy, love and books.

Merry Christmas Morphy & Mr. Morphy! I mostly lurk on your thread, but wanted to wish you well, and to hope that 2015 is a much better year for you!

And remember that true strength is not being perfect all the time, but being able to pick yourself up again and keep trying.

Happy Holidays!

Morphy, I'm hoping that 2015 is nicer to all of us. Glad that you are taking care of yourself and back home. Please try not to listen to the seductive lies depression tells you. You are a wonderful and deserving human being. So grateful for your tough honesty.

Oh Morphy, I am so so sorry to read about the depression you have been experiencing. Glad to see you have a plan in place. Take care of yourself and glad to see that you will be home for Christmas.

Here is hoping that 2015 will be a better year for you and Mr. Morphy.

Merry Christmas Morphy!!

Happy Holidays, Morphy!

Wishing both you and Mr Morphy a wonderful Christmas and wishes for a happier, healthier 2015.

Merry Christmas to you and Mr. Morphy :)

Sending belated Christmas greetings to you and MrMorphy. I hope that 2015 brings you both better health and less stress all round.

I'm a little late making the rounds, but I'm very glad to hear you are home. The things that stress you aren't going to go away, so I hope you can find ways to cope that are easier on you. Wishing you more peace in the new year, m'dear.

>79 MDGentleReader: 2015 will be a fresh new year and I'm determined to start it with a new attitude. It will be a great year filled with joy and health. Right?

>80 ronincats: >81 SylviaC: >83 RosyLibrarian: >84 Ameise1: >86 drneutron: >91 msf59: >93 maggie1944: >94 Kassilem: >95 jolerie: >97 SylviaC: Thanks. The continued support lifts me when I am weary and dispirited.

>82 laytonwoman3rd: I don't know what I would do or if I even would still exist if I didn't have a damn good sense of humor. As Truvy in Steel Magnolias days, "Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion."

>85 DeltaQueen50: It seems it's a tough time of year for everyone. They weren't able to find an outpatient program open for me anytime in the next month. I'll have to find one myself. I do have appointments with a psychiatrist and a therapist much sooner though.

>87 AuntieClio: I'll keep that in mind when I read Zoe's Tale.

>88 AuntieClio: What helps me is this isn't my first or even second time down this road. It's a familiar one. So when I get really crazy thoughts, I (mostly) know when it's the depression talking. It helps to say, "This isn't you talking, it's the depression."

>89 scaifea: And making those little cards have helped me get through the day, too.

>90 maggie1944: No, the accountability apps are part of the problem. I load myself up with to do lists until it becomes impossible to get everything done. If I have a list of three things to do and I don't get them done, I add them to the next day's list, so then I have six things to do, then nine... then twelve, etc. I feel overwhelmed. I have to learn to keep my list to three items no matter what.

>96 MDGentleReader: Getting hugs from MrMorphy is my top stress reducers I have to admit!

>99 maggie1944: She did. I'll be going off Naproxen and onto other medications. Unfortunately, two are in injection forms. I learned how to give myself shots today. I panicked when I saw the length of the needle. It's intramuscular and about 1 1/2 inches long. But when I did it, I didn't feel it at all. I'm sure they won't always be that easy; however, I'm not as scared anymore.

Let the madness begin!

http://www.librarything.com/groups/75booksin2015

>100 LauraBrook: I learned twenty-something years ago that asking for help is the most important thing to do with severe depression. It isn't something you can *ever* handle alone. With low and moderate depression, you can wait it out, do self-therapy, regular therapy, and/or medication. But with severe depression often medication is the only way out at least in the short term until you can get some intensive therapy.

>101 thornton37814: >102 TinaV95: >103 Sakerfalcon: >105 _Zoe_: >106 MDGentleReader: >107 SylviaC: >108 RosyLibrarian: >109 Helenoel: >110 maggie1944: >111 ffortsa: >112 jolerie: >113 jjmcgaffey: >113 jjmcgaffey: >114 jnwelch: >115 Storeetllr: >116 DeltaQueen50: >117 scaifea: >118 bell7: >119 ronincats: >120 LauraBrook: >121 Crazymamie: >122 laytonwoman3rd: >123 MDGentleReader: >124 drneutron: >126 Ameise1: >127 _Zoe_: >128 maggie1944: >129 SylviaC: >130 msf59: >131 jjmcgaffey: >132 MDGentleReader: >133 Helenoel: >134 laytonwoman3rd: >135 Storeetllr: >136 ronincats: >137 SandDune: >138 jnwelch: >139 nhlsecord: >140 PaulCranswick: >141 tymfos: >142 streamsong: >144 Ameise1: >145 MDGentleReader: >146 SylviaC: >147 laytonwoman3rd: >148 jolerie: >151 MDGentleReader: >153 MickyFine: All positive thoughts are greatly appreciated. It helps brighten my mood. Thanks.

>149 connie53: >154 maggie1944: >155 ronincats: >156 SylviaC: >157 maggie1944: >158 johnsimpson: >159 scaifea: >161 RosyLibrarian: >163 msf59: >164 qebo: >165 SandDune: >166 jolerie: >167 DeltaQueen50: >170 Kassilem: >172 lkernagh: >173 ChelleBearss: >174 jayde1599: >175 calm: >176 drachenbraut23: >177 Sakerfalcon: I hope you and yours are celebrating a joyous holiday season filled with love and laughter!

>152 lunacat: Isn't it the pits? And you come out of that haze for a bit and think, "This is not me! What the hell?" It's almost like you are a totally different person sometimes.

>162 MDGentleReader: Answering posts is one of those "musts" for me, I'm afraid. Even it it's just a quick thank you acknowledgment. It's a politeness thing for me.

>168 lunacat: Love the picture of Connie!

>169 NorthernStar: "Never give up. Never surrender," is my motto! A cookie to the first person to name the movie that quote comes from!

>171 AuntieClio: Oh, it is so hard not to listen! I'm sure you know what I mean. *hugs*

>178 laytonwoman3rd: I really do find it difficult to find healthy ways to deal with stress. I may make that next week's Talk to Me Tuesday question!

>180 drneutron: Oh dear lord... :D

>181 Morphidae: Galaxy Quest!

Did someone mention madness? I'm in!!

>179 Morphidae: - I've been doing those kind of injections for years. Many, many are totally painless, no negative feeling at all. I've learned to start putting the needle in very slowly and if I hit a little pain, I pull back and move over a cm or two and frequently I find a spot with no pain. Sometimes I just do it even though it hurts a wee bit. Mostly, it is over so quickly I've gotten to believe it is no big deal.

I hope this is true for you, too.

Looking forward to a much better 2015 for you and Mr. Morphy. xx

>182 drneutron: You get a cookie!



>183 Crazymamie: It's crazy time! But I don't ever post my thread until the first of the year. That's my particular brand of madness.

>184 maggie1944: Eh, I'm a jab it in and get it over with type. Slow would drive me nuts.

>185 PaulCranswick: Thanks, buddy. I'm going into 2015 expecting an excellent year.

{{{virtual hugs}}}

Morphy, my dearest, I'm so glad you're home and I'm wishing you and the whole Morphy household a happy, healthy, dare I say JOYOUS 2015!!!!!!!!

Morphy, I wish you a lovely weekend.

>187 dk_phoenix: *huggles right back!*

>188 LauraBrook: And you, too!

>189 Ameise1: Thanks.

246. Written in Red
247. Murder of Crows by Anne Bishop
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #1 (bird in text - crow/31), reread; TIOLI #12 (another by loved author - entire Black Jewels series), reread
Rating: 8

248. The Color of Water by James McBride
Genre: Nonfiction
Notes: TIOLI #16 (music related - author and some relatives are musicians), 50 States, Ultimate Reading List, 2011 TBR Code List (13 in 13)
Library Description: An African American man describes life as the son of a white mother and Black father, reflecting on his mother's contributions to his life and his confusion over his own identity.
Opinion: A fascinating story and well written but I don't know how the children turned out so well as the mother seemed to be such an unpleasant person. It felt like the author was lauding a neglectful parent at times. He wasn't all that nice a person either.
Rating: 6

249. New York to Dallas by J. D> Robbs
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #14 (dark), next in series
Library Description: When a monster escapes, he has two things in mind. One is to pick up where he left off, abducting young victims and leaving them scarred in mind and body. The other is to get revenge on the woman who stopped him years ago.
Opinion: It's the 33rd In Death book. Nothing new to say.
Rating: 7

250. Undead and Unwary by MaryJanice Davidson
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #1 (bird in narrative - when/3), next in series
Library Description: The (un)lucky thirteenth book in Davidson's Undead series again features Betsy Taylor, the designer shoe-loving vampire queen who has recently inherited her half brother as an adopted son, along with the management of Hell.
Opinion: I don't know why I keep reading these. I haven't read one in this series that I rated over a 6/10 stars since 2008. I guess I'm a masochistic completist. At least they are quick reads.
Rating: 5

251. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
Genre: Children's
Notes: TIOLI #4 (older than me - 1960), 1001 Children's
Library Description: In verse, Sam-I-am tells of the virtues of green eggs and ham.
Opinion: Wow. I can't believe how boring and repetitive this book was. I just scanned it. Blech.
Rating: 4

252. The Andromeda Strain by Michael Crichton
Genre: Science Fiction
Notes: TIOLI #14 (dark), Guardian 1000, 50 State, Ultimate Reading List, Green Dragon Lists (111 Science Fiction), LTers Choose from the Ultimate Reading List (13 in 13)
Library Description: After the government is given warning that procedures for returning space probes are inadequate to guarantee uncontaminated re-entry, satellites are sent into space to "collect organisms and dust." One falls to earth, landing in a desolate area.
Opinion: Enjoyable straightforward thriller-lite that shows its age. Unlike the movie, all the characters are male. Otherwise, the movie follows the book pretty closely.
Rating: 7

253. The Fairy Godmother
254. One Good Knight by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #12 (another by loved author - The Fire Rose), to complete bibliography, reread; TIOLI #13 (magic/horror tag), to complete bibliography, reread
Rating: 8; 7

255. The Witch with No Name by Kim Harrison
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #13 (magic/horror tag), next in series
Library Description: Rachel's come a long way from being a klutzy runner. To save Ivy's soul and the rest of the living vampires, to keep the demonic ever after and our world from destruction, she will risk everything.
Opinion: While I always enjoy Harrison's books - she writes so well that I immediately get absorbed into the world - this time Rachel was too angsty about her relationship with Trent throughout the book, "Oooh, I shouldn't be with him. I'm bad for him. Boo hoo." Grow a pair, girl. The book lost a star for that.
Rating: 7

256. Celebrity in Death by J. D. Robb
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #14 (dark), next in series
Library Description: NYC Lt. Eve Dallas investigates the death of a young actress with the assistance of her husband Rourke and Detective Peabody.
Opinion: 34th book - blah blah blah.
Rating: 7

257. Collapse by Jared Diamond
Genre: Nonfiction
Notes: TIOLI #1 (bird in text - robin/104), Green Dragon Lists (111 Nonfiction)
Library Description: What caused some of the great civilizations of the past to collapse into ruin, and what can we learn from their fates? Diamond weaves an all-encompassing global thesis through a series of historical-cultural narratives.
Opinion: It took me months to read this book. One on hand, there was fascinating content even though it was repetitive at times. On the other, Diamond has some irritating writing ticks. He tells you he's going to tell you something, then tells you, then reminds you of what he just told you. Over and over again. I think if the editor has deleted every sentence that started, "Below I'll tell you how..." or "As I just told you..." the book would have been 50 pages shorter. Lastly, it just ended. There was a question, I turned the page expecting to go on, and I was on the acknowledgments page.
Rating: 6

258. The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon by Stephen King
Genre: Horror
Notes: TIOLI #18 (October sport - baseball), to complete bibliography
Library Description: When a 9-year-old girl becomes lost on a hike on the Appalachian Trail, she relies on her courage and faith, as she imagines her hero, baseball pitcher Tom Gordon, is with her.
Opinion: A plotless story about a lost, whiny girl wandering the woods and thinking about baseball. How much more boring can you possibly get? King's worst by far.
Rating: 3

259. Delusion in Death by J. D. Robb
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: When a downtown bar erupts in sudden violence that leaves eighty people dead, Eve discovers that the bar's patrons were exposed to a lethal cocktail of chemicals and illegal drugs that a sinister killer administered through an airborne method.
Opinion: See previous 34 reviews.
Rating: 8

260. Sins and Needles by Monica Ferris
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #13 (thankful for), next in series
Library Description: When adoptee Lucille Jones arrives in town to research her roots, she discovers her striking resemblance to local Jan Henderson, but when Jan becomes a suspect in the murder of her great-aunt, Betsy Devonshire investigates to find the truth.
Opinion: Fun cozy mystery for an afternoon's reading. I enjoy this series because it's written about a town ten minutes from me and I do needle work.
Rating: 7

261. Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton
Genre: Classics
Notes: TIOLI #4 (author publication history 15+ years/1878 - 1937), AAC
Library Description: Ethan works his unproductive farm and struggles to maintain a bearable existence with his difficult, wife, Zeena. But when Zeena's vivacious cousin enters their household as a hired girl, Ethan finds himself obsessed with her.
Opinion: The story was interesting enough but the writing style and language density were barriers to enjoyment.
Rating: 5

262. The Slow Regard of Silent Things by Patrick Rothfuss
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #12 (one plural word in title, shared)
Library Description: Deep below the University, there is a dark place. Few people know of it. A young woman lives there, tucked among the sprawling tunnels of the Underthing, snug in the heart of this forgotten place. Her name is Auri, and she is full of mysteries.
Opinion: I should have listened to the author's warning in the introduction and not read this novella. It has no plot and is more of an atmospheric piece or character study. I found it tedious and kept waiting for something to happen.
Rating: 4

As always you astound me with how much reading you devour :)

>194 Kassilem: Those were mostly October's reading. I still have November and December to do. :D

***

I'm struggling with sleepiness. It's hard to stay awake during the day. I don't know whether it's the depression, a new anti-depressant medication (Zoloft), or a higher dose of an old anti-binge eating/headache medication (Topamax aka "Dope-amax"). Thankfully, I'll be speaking with my psychiatrist tomorrow so we can try to narrow this down. I think I took five naps yesterday!

My in-laws were extremely generous with us this Christmas. We're not going to use it to pay bills with. We're going to have play money for the first time in a long time. First thing we did was get calendars for ourselves. MrMorphy got a pin up girls daily and mini-wall calendar and a star chart wall calendar. I got a "Simplicity" wall calendar, a Sierra Club weekly planner, and a Disney (ha!) daily calendar. MrMorphy will be getting himself a new desktop computer tomorrow - his is getting old and creaky. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with the rest of mine. I'm sure I'll buy *some* books, but I've really gotten used to getting them from the library. I'm sure I'll come up with something great. Probably more something like experiences rather than material things though - theater tickets, museum entries, etc.

Morning, Morphy! I enjoyed reading through your reviews - you are reading wonder, my friend!

I enjoyed the reviews, too, Morphy. I liked The Slow Regard of Silent Things more than you, sounds like; I liked the writing, although it's true nothing really happens.

You might like Green Eggs and Ham more if you listen to Rev. Jesse Jackson's dramatic rendition on SNL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1mqg4C0awA

Lovely to see you are back home and posting, Morphy! Great mini-reviews. You are making me think about considering adding the Eva Dallas series to my future reading list, but I think I want to finish the Inspector Montalbano series first. ;-)

>193 Morphidae: I'm less enthusiastic about Ferris' series now than I once was. She seems to get a little too far away from the needlework now to suit my taste.

>195 Morphidae: Maybe you just need some healing sleep? It is common with depression, though, I know. What a good idea to treat yourselves to goodies with your in-laws' gifts. You both deserve a few pleasures.

263. Fortune's Fool by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #11 (fairy tale based), to complete bibliography, reread
Rating: 6

264. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Genre: Children's
Notes: TIOLI #17 (leftover), 50 State Challenge, 1001 Children's, Around the World (Denmark)
Library Description: In 1943, during the German occupation of Denmark, ten-year-old Annemarie learns how to be brave and courageous when she helps shelter her Jewish friend from the Nazis.
Opinion: Mildly engaging. It didn't feel like there was much danger or tension. Perhaps because of the intended audience.
Rating: 6

265. Calculated in Death by J. D. Robb
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: When Marta Dickenson, a well-off accountant and a beloved wife and mother, is murdered, Lieutenant Eve Dallas immerses herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to discover who arranged a hit on an innocent woman.
Opinion: Still nothing new to say - 36th book in series.
Rating: 7

266. Dead Over Heels by Charlaine Harris
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: Librarian-sleuth Roe Teagarden finds herself involved in a murder investigation when a small plane flies over her back yard and drops a corpse at her feet.
Opinion: She's not really a sleuth. Stuff just happens around her in this series and she might find a clue or two but the mysteries are solved by others or the bad guys reveal themselves to her. But it's okay. We all need cotton candy fluff now and then.
Rating: 6

267. Deadly Desire by Keri Arthur
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #5 (embedded word - dead, sire), next in series
Library Description: As part-wolf, part-vampire Guardian Riley Jenson investigates a series of brutal murders, she is torn between the two sides of her nature and between her vampire lover, Quinn, and irritating but handsome bounty hunter Kyle Murphy.
Opinion: The mystery plot was interesting but the love triangle was tiresome especially as Kyle was a nasty piece of work.
Rating: 6

268. Partner in Crime by J. A. Jance
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #4 (author publication history 15+ years/1985-2014), LTMP, next in series
Library Description: Two of Jance's most compelling characters come together in this suspenseful novel. When Washington's attorney general's star witness is murdered--Sheriff Joanna Brady's turf--the AG sends his newest investigator, former homicide detective Beaumont.
Opinion: First Brady and Beaumont's argumentativeness then attraction turned me off. I felt the latter, especially, was in poor taste. The mystery was engrossing so it wasn't a complete loss.
Rating: 6

269. The Bride by Julie Garwood
Genre: Romance
Notes: TIOLI #4 (author publication history 15+ years), to complete bibliography
Library Description: By edict of the King, Alec Kincaid must take an English bride, and his choice, young Jamie Jamison, sees Alec as everything her heart warned her against--arrogant, good looking, and passionate.
Opinion: Early Garwood - average romance. There is little drama and the attitudes are too modern for the time period.
Rating: 6

270. Clifford the Big Red Dog by Norman Bridwell
Genre: Children's
Notes: TIOLI #5 (embedded word - cliff), 1001 Children's, LTMP
Library Description: Emily Elizabeth describes the activities she enjoys with her very big, very red dog and how they take care of each other.
Opinion: Quite amusing - I laughed aloud a few times.
Rating: 7

271. Sweetbriar by Jude Deveraux
Genre: Romance
Notes: TIOLI #5 (embedded word - sweet, briar), to complete bibliography
Library Description: Linnet is the sole survivor when her wagon train is ambushed. Devon’s determined to rescue her. The dangers of winning her freedom and their hazardous journey through the wilderness to safety are nothing compared to the dictates of their hearts.
Opinion: Since I am going through Deveraux's bibliography in chronological order, I have to keep in mind these are her earlier works and don't have the same quality as her later ones. Her inexperience shows in a need to tighten up plotting and create an emotional connection to the characters.
Rating: 5

272. The Sleeping Beauty by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #11 (fairy tale based), to complete bibliography, to complete bibliography, reread
Rating: 7

273. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
Genre: Children's
Notes: TIOLI #14 (nursery rhyme object in title - Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater), LTMP, 1001 Children's
Library Description: Naughty Peter Rabbit disobeys his mother by going into Mr. McGregor's garden and almost gets caught.
Opinion: Somewhat entertaining. There was tension throughout until the end which was a let down. It sort of... petered out. (Ha!)
Rating: 6

274. Blood on the Saddle by Rafael Reig
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #4 (author publication history 15+ years/1990-2006), Around the World in 80 Sleuths (Spain)
Library Description: The book opens with private eye Carlos Clot, hard-boiled but softhearted, being hired to sleuth out what's going on with three women: a teenage runaway; a wife whose husband suspects her of cuckolding him; and a voluptuous bombshell.
Opinion: Surrealistic and too hard-boiled for my tastes. Not my thing but others who like this genre probably would enjoy it.
Rating: 5

275. So You Want to be a Wizard by Diane Duane
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #4 (author publication history 15+ years/1979-2011), Green Dragon Lists (1001 Fantasy), LTMP
Library Description: Thirteen-year-old Nita, tormented by a gang of bullies because she won't fight back, finds the help she needs in a library book on wizardry which guides her into another dimension.
Opinion: Oh, this was fun. Pre-Harry Potter wizard-wannabes are involved in a fight for good against evil then arrive home for bedtime.
Rating: 7

276. Beauty and the Werewolf by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #19 ("and" in title), to complete bibliography, reread
Rating: 6

277. Waking the Witch by Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #13 (thankful for), next in series
Library Description: Using the powers she inherited from her dark witch mother and notorious wizard father to solve crimes, beautiful spell-casting investigator Savannah Levine is recruited to track down a supernatural killer.
Opinion: There were several things that occurred that lessened my enjoyment of this book but I can't really get into them because they are almost all spoilers. I'll just have to say this isn't my favorite of the Women of the Otherworld series.
Rating: 6

278. As You Wish by Cary Elwes
Genre: Nonfiction
Notes: TIOLI #7 (royal rank)
Library Description: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride
Opinion: Delightful. Just delightful. It lost a star because Elwes is so obviously not an author, even with the help of a ghost writer. The writing was basic and loose. However, his enthusiasm and love for the movie easily make up for it. Highly recommended for anyone who loves The Princess Bride movie.
Rating: 8

279. The Face in the Frost by John Bellairs
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #18 (book on cover)
Library Description: It centers on two accomplished wizards, Prospero ("and not the one you're thinking of") and Roger Bacon, tracking down the source of a great magical evil.
Opinion: Writing was dense, the story was almost all traveling, and it had a boring plot. Yuck. I'm grateful it was short.
Rating: 4

280. Thankless in Death by J. D. Robb
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: As Eve and her husband Roarke prepare for an invasion of family and friends for Thanksgiving, an ungrateful son decides to stop the nagging from his parents - by ending their lives. Soon he is working his way through anyone who has ever thwarted him.
Opinion: Whoo hoo. I have a comment on the 37th book! I have to admit I don't care as much about an In Death book when I know who the killer is from the first. They are still good, just not as good as when neither Eve nor I know who did it.
Rating: 7

281. Spell Bound by Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #5 (embedded word - pell), next in series
Library Description: Someone has cut off the powers of headstrong young witch Savannah and there's a witch-hunter out to kill her. She now has to rely on mundane skills and her half-demon best friend to turn the tables on her would-be killer and recover her magic.
Opinion: Ah, now this one was better. Faster paced, more tightly written and the actions of all involved make more sense. Nothing coming out of nowhere to shock me out of the book. Nice.
Rating: 7

282. Thirteen by Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #5 (embedded word - teen), next in series
Library Description: Savannah Levine emerges from the rescue of her half-brother and summons formidable powers to halt a supernatural war that is being complicated by the forces of heaven and hell.
Opinion: And a decent wrap up though a little weird at times with cameos from just about everyone in the entire series. Nice pacing and it was time to end the series. You done good, Armstrong.
Rating: 7

283. Archangel's Shadows by Nalini Singh
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: After a bloody battle, the archangel Raphael and his consort, Elena, ask hunter Ashwini and her partner, Cajun vampire Janvier, to stop an insane archangel who is terrorizing the already beaten-down town.
Opinion: I think it's time for Singh to end this series. She's stretched it out long enough. There is little to no spark between the two and the magic of the world-building isn't there anymore. Quit while you are ahead!
Rating: 6

284. Concealed in Death by J. D. Robb
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: In a long-empty building, Roarke begins demolition by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, there are two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it. By the time Eve's done with the scene, there are twelve murders to be solved.
Opinion: Ditto to 37 previous reviews...
Rating: 7

285. A Fool and His Honey by Charlaine Harris
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #6 (title starts with one letter), next in series
Library Description: On returning home from a party, sleuthing librarian Aurora Teagarden of Georgia finds visiting niece Regina missing, Regina's husband slain with a hatchet, and their baby hidden under a bed.
Opinion: While I'm not going to give away a big spoiler, I have to say that while I admit it couldn't have happened to a nicer person, I wish Harris hadn't written herself into that particular corner in the first place.
Rating: 6

286. Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin
Genre: Classics
Notes: TIOLI #14 (nursery rhyme object in title - Mountain Dew fell off a mountain), Guardian 1000, LTMP
Library Description: Baldwin has profoundly altered the nation's social and literary consciousness. Baldwin's first novel, brings Harlem and the black experience vividly to life, as it starkly contrasts two generations of an embattled black family.
Opinion: Too much philosophizing, too little plot. Too much preaching, too little action. Too much abuse, too little done about it Not for me.
Rating: 4

287. Last Scene Alive by Charlaine Harris
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #18 (book on cover), next in series
Library Description: When Robin Crusoe returns to Lawrenceton to create a film, Aurora Teagarden is surprised to learn that her estranged stepson is part of the crew, and when the neighborhood goes film crazy, an unknown murderer begins a killing spree.
Opinion: A more solid entry into the series. An engaging story and Aurora isn't too annoyingly stupid in this one. She's starting to stand up for herself and grow up a little.
Rating: 7

288. Festive in Death by J. D. Robb
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: Personal trainer Trey was in peak physical condition. If you didn't count the knife in his chest. While Dallas sorts through the list of Ziegler's enemies, she tries to put aside her distaste for the victim and solve the mystery of his death.
Opinion: Maybe this particular plot was as boring as I thought. Maybe I'm burnt out because I read too many In Death's in a row. I noticed that there are a LOT of similarities in each book. Eve complains about shopping (check), about Peabody being too personal (check), has words with Summerset (check), drives in traffic (check), has sex with Roarke twice (check), tries to avoid a party/engagement/dinner (check), exercises (check), has a moment with the cat (check), etc. It seems like Roberts/Robb has a checklist to make sure she has each "Eve moment" in every book.
Rating: 6

289. Clariel by Garth Nix
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #4 (author publication history 15+ years/1995-2014), to complete bibliography
Library Description: The story of how Clariel became a Free Magic Sorcerer, set 600 years before the birth of Sabriel.
Opinion: What a depressing book. Nothing good happens and Clariel is an unlikable main character. Yes, I know she becomes a bad guy later but it doesn't mean I want to read about a whiny girl.
Rating: 5

290. The Snow Queen by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #7 (royal rank), reread
Rating: 6

291. Poppy Done to Death by Charlaine Harris
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #20 (death/afterlife title), next in series
Library Description: Not just anyone gets to be a member of the Uppity Women Book Club. Roe's stepsister-in-law Poppy has climbed her way up--only to die on the day she's to be inducted. What's worse are the rumors of infidelity on both sides of Poppy's marriage.
Opinion: Roe is Too Stupid to Live once again. However, the book did make me laugh and cry so it got points for that. And for being the end of the series!
Rating: 6

292. Winter Moon by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #14 (nursery rhyme object in title - the cow jumped over the moon), reread
Rating: 7

293. The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #13 (thankful for)
Library Description: With the help of the British museum and an American scholar, Inspector Grant investigates Richard III, to determine if he was a villain who killed his nephew’s to secure his power, or a victim turned into a monster by the usurpers of England's throne.
Opinion: Tey's seeming misogyny in the beginning of the book turned me off. She put down every female character or rather she had Grant do so and it left a bad taste in my mouth. Once Grant was done trashing all the women and complaining about everything under the sun, the story actually got interesting. A shame that Tey's particular theory seems to not be true. It worked for me.
Rating: 6

Okay, that catches me up through November. I'll do December's tomorrow. *pants*

Well, that was quite a marathon!

Wow, Morphy! Just...WOW! Good work! You are reminding me that I need to get back to those J. D. Robb books - I have a bunch of them on my Kindle. And the kids and I loved those So You Want to be a Wizard books - seems like forever ago when we read them. And if these are your November books, then the book I sent you was a duplicate of one you already had - we shall send you a new book. I'm hoping that your WL is up to date?

>179 Morphidae: Definitely, 2015 will be filled with joy and good health.

>207 Morphidae: Whew! Congratulations. Personally, I'd let myself off the hook. Oh, wait, I don't actually write reviews...

I do appreciate you dedicated, organized, articulate folks who do write reviews. Thank you.

>195 Morphidae: What a lovely idea. You were both due some pampering.

Last day of the year! I was thinking about a low key evening but occurs to me that this year could use a really good send off. Good riddance, 2014.

May the new year bring the Morphys good health, financial security and joy. Oh, right, and plenty of good books to read.

{{{Morphy}}}

Morphy I'm so sorry for all the pain and struggles you've been through. You are on my mind often. I keep you in my prayers. (Mr. Morphy too.)

I struggle with keeping up with my lists. I finally, just finally got it what the Flylady means when she says "You are not behind! I don't want you to try to catch up; I just want you to jump in where we are, OK?" Ding, ding the light turned on for me. I'm still way behind but I am trying to catch up one step at a time.

Take care of yourself Morphy.

Hi Morphy, just a quick post to wish you and Mr Morphy a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year and have an enjoyable reading year in 2015. xx

>208 SylviaC: It was, wasn't it?

>209 lunacat: >213 laytonwoman3rd: >214 johnsimpson: I hope yours is fabulous as well!

>210 Crazymamie: NO NO NO! I get all my books from the library remember? I don't have a duplicate - I have a copy of my *very own*! And I love it! It's certainly something I will be rereading in the future.

>211 MDGentleReader: I didn't know what I was going to do with my share but I think I've finally decided on a new laptop. I've been increasingly frustrated with the slowness of mine no matter how much cleanup I've done on it.

>212 luvamystery65: I'm doing my best. I saw my doctor today for a hospital visit follow-up. Next week I have group therapy, a psychiatrist appointment, and an individual therapist appointment. Whoo hoo! I'm getting my head shrunk well and good! Meanwhile, MrMorphy will be getting his eye plucked Friday next week. He's still wavering between wanting to be called a pirate or a cyclops.

Well, ok then. But still...is your WL up to date? And I think that a new laptop is the perfect thing because they do only last so long no matter how well you take care of them. You'll be flying through the threads!

I vote for pirate.

>215 Morphidae: Definitely pirate, unless he's planning to have the other eye moved to the centre of his forehead during the operation. Which could also be a good look!

>215 Morphidae: definitely a pirate, the pictures I've seen of him make me think he'll pull it off well. And, >217 lunacat: has a good point, probably want to avoid extra surgery.

>216 Crazymamie: Yes, yes. Xmas Swap 2014 is up to date as of right now. But you have no need for it, do you? *gives you the hairy eyeball*

>216 Crazymamie: >217 lunacat: >218 MDGentleReader: I read MrMorphy all the responses and he laughed.

Um...no...no need. But you know, inquiring minds and all that.

May all your wishes come true.

So very impressed with your having completed all those reviews. I'm hopeful to get some in even yet .... you are my inspiration.

Have a safe and Happy New Year!

Dropping by for my final visit in 2014--I'll see you in the 2015 group. I'm glad we agreed on So You Want to Be a Wizard and Clariel, and it has to feel good to have your reviews up to date for the year's end. Sounds like you are doing everything possible to get back on track, and my prayers and good wishes will be with Mr. Morphy on Friday next week.

May 2015 be a healthy one for you and Mr. Morphy!

You are having a posting marathon! Happy New Year!

>215 Morphidae: I'm glad you have all that follow up Morphy. I think Mr. Morphy should be a pirate but if the mood suits him then a cyclops will do.

Happy New Year!

I always wanted to know a pirate. A Cyclops, not so much. So there ya go.

Happy new year Morphy

Didn't see you in the 2015 group yet Morphy so I'll do it here



Happy New Year from your friend in Kuala Lumpur. I trust that 2015 is a much better one for you and Mr. Morphy. xx

Happy New Year to you and Mr. Morphy!

Happy New Year, Morphy!

>220 Crazymamie: Uh huh.

>221 Ameise1: >222 michigantrumpet: >224 Storeetllr: >225 Whisper1: >226 thornton37814: >227 luvamystery65: >228 laytonwoman3rd: >229 The_Hibernator: >230 PaulCranswick: >231 drachenbraut23: >232 rosylibrarian: I hope you all have a healthy, productive, fun, and loving 2015!

>223 ronincats: Thank you. MrMorphy still seems to be chipper. He amazes me.

***

I'll work on getting my 2015 thread up today but I'm making no promises. I'll also be adding December's reads to this thread.

Hi Morphy. Sorry to hear the end of the year didn't go so well for you. I am glad you have a plan in place. Here's wishing you (and Mr. Morphy) a fantastic, upbeat 2015!!! Big hugs. And can I just say Wow!? You read sooooo many books this year!

ThreeSeven Good Things
1. When MrMorphy is setting up the shower for me, Maia comes in to get her drink. She puts her paws up on the side of the tub and licks water from his palm and wrist. He has to "refill" anywhere from three to six times. It's adorable.
2. I got a polar bear mount from a quest in HabitRPG!
3. MrMorphy and I had fun looking over the first day/month of our new 2015 calendars.
4. I got on the scale for the first time in weeks and I hadn't gained as much as I thought.
5. Started reading the Folio Society book (my first!) I got from Mom for Christmas, Seven Gothic Tales by Isak Dinesen. It's so lovely to hold!
6. I exercised for 21.5 minutes today.
7. Had a nice conversation with my mom.

What a great start to the new year!

Congratulations on the exercise.

Hugs.

*Love* the Seven Good Things, Morphy!

That's a great list of good things Morphy. What a fab way to start the New Year. Kudos :)

Oh, Morphy, that is a most excellent list! Each one made me smile. I love your heart and how you think about things. Please know that I am thinking about you today.

>236 MDGentleReader: >237 scaifea: >238 lunacat: >239 Crazymamie: I am determined to have a positive attitude this year. Every day I am writing down at least three good things and I thought it would be nice to share it on my thread. I refuse to be as much of a Debbie Downer as I was in 2014!

What a wonderful list of good things, Morphy! And what wonderful books you've read in 2014! (((Morphy)))

Wonderful that you could come up with twice as many good things as you wanted to, with one thrown in for lagniappe! Be careful about those Folio editions...they can quickly become a "need". I got my first few this year, and I'm in love.

Three-ish Good Things
1. MrMorphy has started my Christmas present of a clean house with a bang by getting the bedroom all straightened, dusted, and wiped down. Plus he got started in the foyer.
2. The WeCab program director came by to sign my check today. I wasn't expecting her to do that until next week.
3. She also gave me $20 for Christmas.
4. The truck repair isn't going to cost us as much as I thought.

>241 LauraBrook: I still have to get December's listed!

>242 laytonwoman3rd: I know! I sit there rubbing my hand over the book cover and case. What do you use for a bookmark? I'm afraid to use anything so I've been memorizing the page number.

>244 Morphidae: Same here! I haven't put any foreign paper between the pages of the two I've read so far. I have a silk bookmark somewhere---that would probably be OK.

>243 Morphidae: Morphy,that sounds wonderful. :-)

Morning, Morphy!

Morphy, I wish you a fabulous weekend full of reading.

Hi Morphy! I still couldn't find you in the 2015 group, so I'm visiting your 2014 thread. Hopefully things are going well for you today. I've decided to use my 2015 thread to write something I'm happy about each day, and I was inspired by your efforts to do the same thing. Hopefully you'll continue through your next thread?

Clean houses are wonderful. I should clean my place. Or maybe I should sit here on LT and visit everyone's threads...hmmm.

294. Where the Red Fern Grows by Rawls Wilson
Genre: Children's
Notes: TIOLI #6 (title color)
Library Description: A young boy living in the Ozarks achieves his heart's desire when he becomes the owner of two redbone hounds and teaches them to be champion hunters.
Opinion: I think I got warned too much about how terribly sad this book was as I wasn't emotionally moved at all. Perhaps it had something about my modern sensibilities interferring. I got annoyed with all the raccoon and tree killing. Otherwise, I did like the story well enough.
Rating: 7

295. This Scepter'd Isle
296. Ill Met by Moonlight
297. By Slanderous Tongues
298. And Less Than Kind by Mercedes Lackey
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #14 (2014 Bingo - nonhuman characters), to complete bibliography, reread
TIOLI #14 (2014 Bingo - second book in series), next in series, reread
TIOLI #14 (2014 Bingo - female author), next in series, reread
TIOLI #14 (2014 Bingo - different continent), next in series
Rating: 6

299. Harvest Moon by Mercedes Lackey, et al.
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #5 (Christmas carol noun - moon/Twas in the Moon of Wintertime), to complete bibliography, reread
Rating: 7

300. The Puppet Masters by Robert Heinlein
Genre: Science Fiction
Notes: TIOLI #14 (2014 Bingo - became a movie), to complete bibliography
Library Description: When alien slugs with mind control abilities begin infecting people, Sam and Mary, federal agents whose work is only known to the President, try to stop the invasion and kill the aliens without harming their hosts.
Opinion: Oh, ouch. Does this show its age, especially when it comes to the portrayal of genders. Sheesh. And it had what I felt was a heartless ending. Otherwise an interesting enough sci fi tale. I mean, I can't give it a "4" - meaning I didn't like it. Because I did. The story telling was good enough to nudge it over to a 5 star rating.
Rating: 5

301. The Curse of Chalion
302. Paladin of Souls by Lois McMaster Bujold
Genre: Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #8 (non-religious/religion - fantasy), reread number four!
TIOLI #8 (non-religious/religion - fantasy), reread number four!
Rating: 8, 7

303. The Angel Tree by Daphne Benedis-Grab
Genre: Children's
Notes: TIOLI #2 (Christmas), LT Recommended
Library Description: Every Christmas in the small town of Pine River, a tree appears in the town square and people tie wishes to it, but nobody knows where the tree comes from--but this year four children are determined to solve the mystery of the Angel Tree.
Opinion: This book annoyed me. The conflicts were resolved too easily and there would hardly have been any if people would have just TALKED to each other. And I got the feeling I was being manipulated, as I do with the song The Christmas Shoes. As if each stereotypical person was specifically chosen to push buttons - the poor misunderstood boy with an attitude, the kindly grandmother, the disabled girl, the hearty merchant, the helpful librarian, etc. Just call me the Grinch.
Rating: 5

304. Her Royal Spyness by Rhys Brown
Genre: Mystery
Notes: TIOLI #14 (2014 Bingo - first book in a series, shared), LT Recommended
Library Description: Lady Georgiana, 34th in line for the throne, is broke. She's bolted Scotland, her greedy brother, and her fish-faced betrothed for London where she'll experience freedom, learn life lessons, do a bit of spying for HRH, and find a dead man in her tub.
Opinion: I really enjoyed this lively and humorous story. I even laughed out loud several times. I would have given this an 8/10 stars if I hadn't gotten irritated with Georgie being a pushover a few too many times, especially when it came to her family.
Rating: 7

305. Montana 1948 by Larry Watson
Genre: Fiction
Notes: TIOLI #16 (nothing to do with Christmas - shared), Most Popular TIOLI
Library Description: To twelve-year-old David, his family is comfortable and familiar. He admires his father, the town sheriff, and his uncle, the local doctor. But when their Sioux housekeeper whispers her fears during a fever, David and his family are changed forever.
Opinion: I struggled with rating this. On one hand, the writing is exceptional. On the other, it wasn't a pleasant read thematically and the end was unsatisfactory (subjectively.) So, it got a middlin' rating.
Rating: 6

306. Practical Demonkeeping by Christopher Moore
Genre: Humor
Notes: TIOLI #3 (contradiction), Ultimate Reading List
Library Description: "Roads" scholar Travis O'Hearn is one hundred years old but looks twenty. His traveling companion is a green demon with a nasty habit of eating people. When they arrive at a resort town in California, all hell breaks loose.
Opinion: What an absolute stitch. This is my second Moore and I am definitely going to read more books by him. You get thoughts in your head while reading his books of, "Oh no, he is not going to do that." Then, "Oh, yes. Oh, yes he did!" I'm sure not everyone will appreciate his humor as he certainly is irreverent, especially when it comes to literary mores such as not killing off named characters within pages of introducing them!
Rating: 8

307. Be Our Guest by Theodore Kinni
Genre: Nonfiction
Notes: TIOLI #22 (normally wouldn't read - business, leadership)
Library Description: Key processes and best practices that have made Disney a trusted and revered brand around the world for more than 85 years.
Opinion: This was more Business 101 rather than about how Disney specifically does customer service. Oh, there were significant tidbits here and there, but they weren't the meat of the book. Decent novice business/leadership book and I tried to rate it more for that rather than my inaccurate expectations.
Rating: 6

308. Forever My Love by Lisa Kleypas
Genre: Romance
Notes: TIOLI #12 (out of print), to complete bibliography
Library Description: Any plot from a badly written historical romance set in Regency England from the 1980s
Opinion: I'm pulling a Tim, "No."
Rating: 4

309. Burn for Me by Ilona Andrews
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #15 (word/different meaning/another language - Burn/Nose/Turkish), to complete bibliography
Library Description: Nevada is faced with the most challenging case of her detective career: a suicide mission to bring in a suspect in a volatile case. Her quarry is a Prime, the highest rank of magic user, who can set anyone and anything on fire.
Opinion: The hero was too pushy and arrogant for my tastes. However, there seems to be hope he'll turn himself around in later books. Otherwise, the usual delightful Andrews world building and humor was present along with action and magic flying everywhere. It was also nice to see a heroine with a real, functional family. Fun!
Rating: 7

310. What Jane Austen Ate and Charles Dickens Knew by Daniel Pool
Genre: Nonfiction
Notes: TIOLI #19 (left), Green Dragon Lists (111 Nonfiction)
Library Description: Filled with lively essays and a glossary, this unique reference-organized by subject-is a practical and entertaining compendium of information on this time of debtor prisons, bedlam, and that wonderful disease of sense and sensibility, "putrid fever."
Opinion: This took me forever to read. Don't get me wrong, it was fun. But while the first half to two-thirds consists of essays, the rest is a glossary! As much as I enjoyed reading the terms, I could get through only a few pages of it at a time. Plus, I was often Googling terms so I could see what something looked like or to learn more. So, a few pages would take an hour or more!
Rating: 7

311. Dead But Not Forgotten by Charlaine Harris (ed.)
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #11 (end), to complete bibliography
Library Description: The Sookie Stackhouse series may have reached its conclusion, but the world of Bon Temps, Louisiana, lives on in this all-new collection of 15 stories. Written by a killer lineup of authors, it puts your favorite characters center stage.
Opinion: I don't typically enjoy anthologies, especially shared world anthologies, but this was a good read and there are a few new authors to me that I will be looking up.
Rating: 7

312. Waistcoats & Weaponry by Gail Carriger
Genre: Steampunk
Notes: TIOLI #16 (nothing to do with Christmas), next in series
Library Description: In her alternate England of 1851, while taking her friend by train to her werewolf pack in Scotland, 16-year-old Sophronia uncovers a plot that threatens to dissolve all of London into chaos and must decide where her loyalties lie once and for all.
Opinion: I liked this one better than the first two in the series. The plotting is more complex as are the characters and their motivations. Plus it's not as silly. I don’t mind silly, but the first two were ridiculous.
Rating: 7

313. Kindred by Octavia Butler
Genre: Classics
Notes: TIOLI #16 (nothing to do with Christmas), 50 State Challenge, Green Dragon Lists (111 Science Fiction)
Library Description: Dana, a modern black woman, is snatched abruptly from her home in California and transported to the antebellum South. Rufus, the white son of a plantation owner, is drowning, and Dana has been summoned across the years to save him.
Opinion: Very well written but none of the characters were appealing which reduced my enjoyment. I wanted to smack Dana several times and ask, "What the hell are you DOING?" Her husband was a moron and Rufus and his father were a nasty pair. Even the other slaves were mostly unpleasant. The ending was abrupt and confusing. I'm hoping a different Butler will be better as I loved Bloodchild.
Rating: 6

314.310. Night Shift by Nalini Singh (ed.)
Genre: Contemporary Fantasy
Notes: TIOLI #5 (Christmas carol noun - O Holy Night), to complete bibliography
Library Description: Four contemporary fantasy novellas
Opinion: I was delighted with all four stories. The first was by an author I enjoy anyway (Singh), the second is a loved author (Ilona Andrews), the third I immediately went and requested one of her books from the library (Lisa Shearin), and the last must be a brand new author because she has no books in LT (Milla Vane.)
Rating: 8

***

And that's the last of the books for 2014! My numbers are off somewhere but I don't feel like looking for it. The accurate number of books read in 2014 is 310. I've been trying to read more books every year but I'm not going to do that in 2015. I'm not going to worry about numbers. Whatever happens, happens.

>245 laytonwoman3rd: I guess it would depend on how thick it was. I would prefer paper but I don't want to risk staining the pages.

>246 Ameise1: Every day has new possibilities!

>247 scaifea: And good evening to you, hon!

>248 Ameise1: Not getting much reading done today. Perhaps tomorrow.

>249 The_Hibernator: I'm a bit behind and haven't gotten my 2015 thread up yet. I wanted to get December's books up. And, yes, I'll be continuing "good things" in 2015.

Three Good Things
1. MrMorphy deposited a large check today that we got from an old employer's pension plan that we forgot about. It's enough to keep up going for several months.
2. Walgreens was able to find the correct needles so I can get started on the new headache procedures when I want to (after Ken's surgery.)
3. Finally got caught up on all my book reviews for 2014!

Hooray for Good Things!!! (And #1 seems like a doozy.)

Greetings, o fearless leader!

>256 streamsong: Ah, you got it! Neat.

>252 Morphidae: And your last book is a double author bullet. I love Ilona Andrews and like Lisa Shearin, so I'll have to look up Singh and Vane. I'll see if I can find that book, too. Thanks!

Morphy - good to hear your Good Things. I hope 2015 brings many more of them.

>255 SylviaC: It certainly is a blessing.

>256 streamsong: Greetings! Here's mine...



>257 jjmcgaffey: Warning: Unlike Andrews, Singh is steamy. VERY steamy.

>258 Helenoel: I'm certain they will!

Three Good Things
1. Worked some on my movie database - checking off movies I've watched in the last year. I always enjoy fiddling with my databases.
2. Maia had a small accident last night and instead of waking Ken up, I did most of the clean up - got her outside, bathed her, etc. The only thing I needed Ken for was to deal with the pillow case for the pillow in her kennel. I would have taken care of that too but I just could not find them. I know where they are now for the next time. I'm pretty proud of myself.
3. A delicious dinner of tilapia, pasta, and veggies.

Hi Morphy--It is always nice to tidy up the databases. I have been inputting my owned but not read books this weekend. I am mostly motivated to prevent future duplicate purchases. Oops! ; )

>261 Berly: And I've been lax. I'm always so busy doing something else I haven't spared the time to play in them. I'm MAKING time this year!

***

And I FINALLY got my 2015 thread up. Whoo hoo!

https://www.librarything.com/topic/186012