I tried...really I did

In my post on January 9, 2016, I gave a list of authors that I have avoided reading for one reason or another.  So far I have made it through a James Patterson, a Danielle Steele, and a Robert Galbraith without much trouble.  Then came April.

For April's author, I chose Diana Gabaldon.  Oh how I wish I hadn't.  I have twice tried to read Outlander.  Both times I gave up.  I just couldn't get into it. Since I didn't want to try again to read an 850 page book that I have given up on twice or listen to the 32 hour and 43 minute audiobook, I decided to try one of Diana Gabaldon's smaller tomes.  I chose to listen to the 9 hour and 24 minute Lord John and the Private Matter.  After 1 hour and 4 minutes of listening to Lord John try to get a peek at his niece's fiance's schmeckle (yes, I said SCHMECKLE!) to see if he has the pox (aka syphilis), I couldn't take it any more. I give up.  I just can't do it.

I am not a "you read that tripe?" snooty reader.  If you enjoy Outlander and the rest of Diana Gabaldon's books, I'm glad for you.  As for me. I tried but I just can't...

Thanks for reading.

How much sleep did I miss reading Into the Mist by Lee Murray? ALL OF IT!

One of my favorite things about working in a library and being around books, is when I find a new author that blows me away.  Into the Mist by Lee Murray is just one of THOSE books.  The author’s cousin, a librarian in New Zealand whom I correspond with, told me that the book was coming out, so I went to Amazon to check to see if it was something I would like. The description of the book had me clicking pre-order faster than I eat chocolate.  Military horror, native mythology, beautiful locale, and breathtaking action – this book has it all.

I have always been a big fan of mythology of different cultures.  The Taniwha, a legendary Maori water monster, brings thrills and chills to the native Maori park in New Zealand.

A group of scientists are on a fact finding mission to see if there is gold in the area. They are beyond unprepared for what is waiting for them in the misty mountains, even with their military escort. Unbeknownst to them, there have been park visitors reported missing, including a whole military search party. The military escort is not only there to protect them. They are also looking for the missing military search party that was previously sent to the area to search for the missing park visitors.  What follows is an intense, roller coaster ride through the jungle just trying to survive.

Reminiscent of Michael Crichton’s Jurassic Park and Preston & Child’s Relic, Lee Murray’s Into the Mist was a satisfying romp that kept me wanting more.  To decide if a book is good, I judge it by how much sleep it made me miss.  I missed a LOT of sleep while reading this book.  I highly recommend it.

You can order Into the Mist at Amazon or check with your local independent bookstore.

Thanks for reading.