I'm about to dive into the next TREK Titan book (#2 in the series). Really liked the first one. So what is on your nightstand to read?
All the Star Wars novels. I'm also reading old issues of the Star Wars Insider magazine I picked up months ago.
Assassin's Quest by Robin Hobb.
It's about a guy who was raised from the age of 6 to be an assassin for the King. He does some bad stuff and is a bit of an unusual hero.
Star Wars Allegiance. It takes place right after ANH and features Mara Jade (pre-lightside), Han, Luke, Chewie, Leia, Vader and some rogue Stormtroopers. I'm only a few pages in, but its pretty good so far.
Sounds like good stuff folks. I have that SW book Jen. I'll be reading it soon. Let me know what you think of it.
I have been attempting to read Star Wars Dark Nest The Joiner King, but it has been a real slow read for me. I wanted to read that Series before reading the Legacy of the Force series, but if I keep stuttering on it, then I am going to skip it, and just go to Legacy of the Force, as I have never heard any good reviews on the Dark Nest Trilogy. Allegiance sounds really interesting to me, and I really liked Timothy Zahns other Star Wars books, so I will read that one as well, might actually fast track that one to the top of the list, will give Dark Nest another week or so and see how it goes for me.
I am reading the Dark Tower comic books, Brother Odd by Dean Koontz and The Plitone Revisionist by Paul S. Jenkins (a podiobook)
I have never read any of the Star Wars novels :blush is there one that I should start with or any that you would recommend?
Heir to the Empire by Timothy Zahn is a great SW novel to start with.
Quote from: jedijeff on March 15, 2007, 06:27:06 PM
I have been attempting to read Star Wars Dark Nest The Joiner King, but it has been a real slow read for me. I wanted to read that Series before reading the Legacy of the Force series, but if I keep stuttering on it, then I am going to skip it, and just go to Legacy of the Force, as I have never heard any good reviews on the Dark Nest Trilogy. Allegiance sounds really interesting to me, and I really liked Timothy Zahns other Star Wars books, so I will read that one as well, might actually fast track that one to the top of the list, will give Dark Nest another week or so and see how it goes for me.
If I'm not mistaken I belive that I heard a review on Star Wars En Direct about The Dark Nest Trilogy. Audrey, one of the hosts, said that it should be skipped and that you don't need to read it in order to grasp the Legacy of the Force series. I know I've heard that advice, but I listen to so many Star Wars Podcasts...I can't be certain it was SWEN Direct. It could have also been Nathan Butler's Podcast over on Star Wars Fanworks. Long story short, you're not the only one who thinks it stinks...the good news is isn't not necessary that you read it before Legacy.
Quote from: comix on March 15, 2007, 06:28:40 PM
I am reading the Dark Tower comic books, Brother Odd by Dean Koontz and The Plitone Revisionist by Paul S. Jenkins (a podiobook)
I have never read any of the Star Wars novels :blush is there one that I should start with or any that you would recommend?
I agree with Rico, Heir to the Empire is a great book, as is Darth Maul: Shadow Hunter.
Thanks I will try a couple of those. How about the SW comics? are they worth a look? I love comics :love
I'm just finishing up "I, Jedi" and have "Allegiance" waiting in the wings!
Comix,
I'm enjoying the current SW "Legacy" comic quite a bit. Set about 100 years or so past Jedi. Knights of the Old Republic comic is pretty cool too.
Crimson Empire is a great comic, it takes place 5-10 years after Jedi, and focuses on a Royal Guard named Kir Kanos. It's sort of a sequel to Dark Empire (which isn't bad) and Dark Empire 2/Empire's End which I haven't read.
The Clone Wars comics are GREAT. Taking place between AOTC and ROTS there are 9 TPBs of different stories, I have volumes 5-9 and they are excellent.
Those are the only ones I've read, aside from the first 5 issues of Legacy.
Pick a time period you like and read the comics from that period, they're all pretty good.
Thank you all! Oh goodie new stuff to read! :love
Quote from: Jen on March 15, 2007, 07:42:35 PM
Quote from: jedijeff on March 15, 2007, 06:27:06 PM
I have been attempting to read Star Wars Dark Nest The Joiner King, but it has been a real slow read for me. I wanted to read that Series before reading the Legacy of the Force series, but if I keep stuttering on it, then I am going to skip it, and just go to Legacy of the Force, as I have never heard any good reviews on the Dark Nest Trilogy. Allegiance sounds really interesting to me, and I really liked Timothy Zahns other Star Wars books, so I will read that one as well, might actually fast track that one to the top of the list, will give Dark Nest another week or so and see how it goes for me.
If I'm not mistaken I belive that I heard a review on Star Wars En Direct about The Dark Nest Trilogy. Audrey, one of the hosts, said that it should be skipped and that you don't need to read it in order to grasp the Legacy of the Force series. I know I've heard that advice, but I listen to so many Star Wars Podcasts...I can't be certain it was SWEN Direct. It could have also been Nathan Butler's Podcast over on Star Wars Fanworks. Long story short, you're not the only one who thinks it stinks...the good news is isn't not necessary that you read it before Legacy.
Thanks Jen
I have heard a few say it was not worth the time, and really starting to beleive that. I will give it a few more weeks, but it looks like they will return to my book shelf so that I can read others. I think I have heard Nathan Butler mention they were not worth the time on one of his podcasts. Have to agree with him as well regarding the Dark Times comic, as it has been fairly disappointing so far.
Jeff
I have to Agree with Rico and Ryan, if you are starting reading Star Wars Books, the Zahn Thrawn trilogy is probably the best place to start. I could literally see it all happening in my head, and very easy to read. As well Darth Maul Shadow Hunter was very good as well, and probably the star wars book I enjoyed the most after the Thrawn Trilogy.
Quote from: Jen on March 15, 2007, 05:44:15 PM
Star Wars Allegiance. It takes place right after ANH and features Mara Jade (pre-lightside), Han, Luke, Chewie, Leia, Vader and some rogue Stormtroopers. I'm only a few pages in, but its pretty good so far.
My brother also recommended this book...I may have to pick it up.
I recently finished
Darth Bane: Path to Destruction. Great read with quite a bit of insight into the Sith that created the "Rule of Two"
Other than that I must admit I read very little sci-fi. On TV and on the screen I love it but in print....most of the time it bores me to tears with the Star Wars universe being a notable exception. For some reason Sci-Fi has always bee a very visual thing for me.
I typically read books dealing with military history, historical fiction and I must say I LOVE alternate history...there is something about the age old question "What if...?" that really fascinates me.
That being said I am currently finishing up a book titled
Dumb But Lucky: The Confessions of a P-51 Mustang Pilot in World War II...this is a sub-genre of military history that I love..."First Person accounts"
Quote from: Bryancd on March 16, 2007, 07:22:19 AM
I'm just finishing up "I, Jedi" and have "Allegiance" waiting in the wings!
Its very good Bryanâ€"you're going to really enjoy it. I've read about three chapters... so far its great! Its very hard to put down.
I did start in on book 2 in the TREK Titan series titled the Red King. About 100 pages in so far and liking it.
I had a hard time with Red King, did not inspire me to pick up book three yet, but I 'm sure I will read it. I am working through Crucible: Spock right now, another in the three part series with the Kirk book coming out thiss month, might have already come out actually. So far I like it.
Quote from: Darth Gaos on March 20, 2007, 10:32:06 AM
Quote from: Jen on March 15, 2007, 05:44:15 PM
Star Wars Allegiance. It takes place right after ANH and features Mara Jade (pre-lightside), Han, Luke, Chewie, Leia, Vader and some rogue Stormtroopers. I'm only a few pages in, but its pretty good so far.
I recently finished Darth Bane: Path to Destruction. Great read with quite a bit of insight into the Sith that created the "Rule of Two"
Oooo...Yeah, I loved that book. I hope they start a series of those. The author left it in sort of a cliff hanger.
I am reading the Ben Bova Asteroid Wars series currently for my lunch book. Pretty good Sci-fi. I am also re-reading my entire Star Trek novel collection, starting from the start. I just finished Spock Must Die!!. I am also in the middle of the Pupped Masters.
Duffster
I've never been good at reading multiple books at one time. I probably could since I read many comics, and other things each month as well as a book. Sounds like you are reading some good stuff there Duffster. I also read during lunch.
Well if I'm not reading at least a couple of books, and have a pile to be read..... i get the heebee jeebies! You should see me when I go on a business trip! I have to carry 3-4 books, just in case I get delayed somewhere.
One series I haven't read in a long time are any Star Wars books. I loved the Zahn books. but haven't paid a lot of attention to any since. I think I will need to pick up some of the ones that you are all talking about.
duffster
There are SO many Star Wars books. It's getting close to TREK level in books!
Well I did listen to most of the New Jedi Order series on my way to work. I love the library! But nothing since. Wow I just checked out the Wikipedia site for Star Wars books...Holy Cow, you are not kidding. I got a lot of catching up to do!
I am currently in the middle of two books, Echos of Honor, the 8th book in the Honor Harrington series, by David Weber and I.Asimov a Memoir the autobiography of Isaac Asimov.
I suppose I.Asimov is the better of the two but I read the 10th book in the Honor series and skipped 8 and 9 so now I have to go back and fill in the gaps.
I like the Miles Vorkosagan series by Lois M. Bujold better than the Harrington series. The characters seem more textured and human. Sometimes Weber's analogy of the People's Republic to the French Revolution is funny and sometimes it is tiresome.
There are lots of things about Asimov I never would have guessed. He was a lousy chess player, could hardly ride a bicycle and hated airplanes. Apparently that influeced his caves of steel series. He also considered a career as a historian and liked historical novels and that brought about the Foundation series.
psik
I am now just vinishing up "The Making of Star Wars" and woll be moving on to the latest Star Trek: Vangaurd book...
I just finished Star Trek TNG The Genesis Wave- Book 1. It was great.
I am in the middle of Voyager:Homecoming, which my wife stole from me... :)
And I will be starting The Genesis Wave book 2 soon.
I haven't ever read any Trek books before, they are pretty good.
Quote from: moyer777 on May 31, 2007, 09:13:53 PM
I just finished Star Trek TNG The Genesis Wave- Book 1. It was great.
I am in the middle of Voyager:Homecoming, which my wife stole from me... :)
And I will be starting The Genesis Wave book 2 soon.
I haven't ever read any Trek books before, they are pretty good.
That's cool Rick! I hope your wife has The Farthest Shore to read when she finishes Homecoming or she'll go nuts not knowing how it all ends. I really enjoyed those two books but Christie Golden's next Voyager books called Spirit Walk I didn't.
I wasn't a big fan of the Genesis Wave books but they were fine. I think there are some really awesome Star Trek books out there right now. They probably have the best authors they have ever had in the line. Some of my favorites would be:
Any of the DS9 relaunch series from Avatar onwards.
Serpent Among the Ruins
The three Titan novels
The three Vangaurd novels
Articles of the Federation
The Art of the Impossible
Imzadi
Immortal Coil
Q-Squared
Sarek
I could go on but I won't! lol
Kevin
yes, we have the second book on the night stand. Just ready for when we're done with Homecoming.
I just started the Genesis wave book two, and it is better than the first right off the bat.
Pretty fun!
Thanks for the suggestions, I will look those up!
Rick
Quote from: moyer777 on June 01, 2007, 09:58:32 PM
yes, we have the second book on the night stand. Just ready for when we're done with Homecoming.
I just started the Genesis wave book two, and it is better than the first right off the bat.
Pretty fun!
Thanks for the suggestions, I will look those up!
Rick
...I've been listening to Trek Audio books lately. I've listened to "Vulcan Heart" and "Vulcan Forge", "Star Trek Voyager: Mosaic". I also listened to "A Time For Yesterday", which I read once already, but had forgotten. I'd rather read these books, but I'm reading Star Wars novels right now. These Star Trek novels were pretty good, even though they were Abridged. I was eying "Genesis Wave". Let me know if its worth downloading.
Yeah, I am actually reading, reading Homecoming and starting on the next one soon. Amy already finished it. :)
I have been listening to the Genesis Wave Books, one and two. And I really like Tim Russ reading them, he is good, I love his Klingon and Picard voice. VERY FUN! I liked the books, especially number two, but of course to figure out what is going on you have to hear book one first.
I do so much reading for work that I like to walk and listen to books on tape. I do about an hour and a half of walking a day, so it's nice to have something to learn and be creative with. I actually bought an ITALK for my ipod so I could record notes while I walk, it just looks kind of silly. :)
I have listened to some other good books, not related to Star Trek-- A five hour one called "Good to Great" by Jim Collins was really pretty good. Kind of a leadership success orientated book. I also enjoyed a book called Changes that Heal by Dr. Henry Cloud. It was good too- more for my work though.
I think that podcasts and ipods are so cool. What a great deal. Customized radio. That's what I think of it as.
I tried listening to the Make it so Podcast today, and they refered to Rico in the begining of it. They didn't say his name, but I knew who they were talking about! But, it wasn't very family friendly. A little too many f bombs for me! I liked their accent though.
Ok, now I'm rambling!
Be cool.
:metallica:
Rick: I wasn't sure if I should go on the "Make it So" show or not but now I think I will not bother. I don't need to be bombarded with f-bombs....I have a tendancy to be on my best behaviour when on public display! lol I could never take part in their language so I would just look stuck up...but anyway.
I just got the best book in the world yesterday, and as usual with me, its non-fiction. You guys who are interested in film production should check out the book "The Complete Film Production Handbook" by Eve Light Honthaner. She was the production coordinator (PC) on one of the biggest films of our time, Titanic. With a budget of 200 million and multiple studios working together to pull it off it is without a doubt the largest film effort ever. The Pirates III film had a high budget at around 200 million as well, but it was nothing like spending 200 million in pre 9/11 / war, 1996/97.
Anyway! Check out the book, its brilliant! -Sebastian.
Quote from: moyer777 on June 04, 2007, 11:31:13 PM
I tried listening to the Make it so Podcast today, and they refered to Rico in the begining of it. They didn't say his name, but I knew who they were talking about! But, it wasn't very family friendly. A little too many f bombs for me! I liked their accent though.
Ok, now I'm rambling!
Be cool.
:metallica:
I know what you mean Ricky! Way too much cursing in their podcats. They are interesting guys and make some hilarious points at times but they really should tone down the foul language. It's not necessary. I always feel sorry for people who can't come up with more intelligent and creative ways to express themselves.
Kevin
Quote from: Jen on June 04, 2007, 07:09:01 PM
Quote from: moyer777 on June 01, 2007, 09:58:32 PM
yes, we have the second book on the night stand. Just ready for when we're done with Homecoming.
I just started the Genesis wave book two, and it is better than the first right off the bat.
Pretty fun!
Thanks for the suggestions, I will look those up!
Rick
...I've been listening to Trek Audio books lately. I've listened to "Vulcan Heart" and "Vulcan Forge", "Star Trek Voyager: Mosaic". I also listened to "A Time For Yesterday", which I read once already, but had forgotten. I'd rather read these books, but I'm reading Star Wars novels right now. These Star Trek novels were pretty good, even though they were Abridged. I was eying "Genesis Wave". Let me know if its worth downloading.
Jen, I listened to the Genesis Wave abridged audio books and thought they were terrible! I'm sure the actual book is better, but the audio books were incomprehnsible!
Maybe I haven't listened to any better ones. I thought Tim Russ did well with it. The first Star Trek book I listened to was Yesterday's son, now that was a lot to be desired as far as audio quality. I think Leonard Nimoy even read some of it, and James D. did too. It wasn't as good as the Genesis Wave ones.
Alas, I am a newbie at Trek books and audio!
Any suggestions Bryan? Are there some good audio one's out there?
After Genesis Wave, I gave up on audiobooks as theya re very hard to hear in my Jeep! I did previuosly enjoy some of the Starship Excaliber stories on audio, those were good.
Quote from: Bryancd on June 05, 2007, 12:57:24 PM
After Genesis Wave, I gave up on audiobooks as theya re very hard to hear in my Jeep! I did previuosly enjoy some of the Starship Excaliber stories on audio, those were good.
Yeah, I bet. I had an ipod with nice little headphones. It was pretty good that way.
I love audio books (Star Wars, Star Trek, Harry Potter, LOTR, Eargon and many more).. that is all I listen to now while driving in traffic. But like Bryan it's tough to hear in my Jeep but I too have an Ipod with headphones so I normally will listen to that while sitting in traffic.
Quote from: moyer777 on June 05, 2007, 12:30:41 PM
Maybe I haven't listened to any better ones. I thought Tim Russ did well with it. The first Star Trek book I listened to was Yesterday's son, now that was a lot to be desired as far as audio quality. I think Leonard Nimoy even read some of it, and James D. did too. It wasn't as good as the Genesis Wave ones.
Alas, I am a newbie at Trek books and audio!
Any suggestions Bryan? Are there some good audio one's out there?
Yep, just finished listening to Time for Yesterday. James Doohan narrated that one and Leonard Nimoy read quotes from Spock. Doohan had a great talent for voices. I thought he did a great impersonation of Kirk and McCoy. I started to worry that he was going to try to do Uhura's voice...but he didn't even attempt it, which was a relief. I always hate it when male narrators try to do female characters. It ruins it for me.
I listen to audio books at work. I spend about 7 hours a day on my computer designing stuff...the audio books make the day go by faster and helps me learn the technical jargon for my Treksf RPG posts. Luckily I haven't found a bad one yet, though I only started listening to them recently. Avoid Star Wars Labyrinth Of Evil at all costsâ€"the audio book stinks.
Starship Excaliber? That sounds interesting...what era is it in? Are there any recognizable characters in the story or are they new?
Thanks for the advice!
The only audio book I've ever listened to has been The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros and that was because it was a high school assignment. I think I have some old audio tapes of James Herriot's All Things Bright and Beautiful but I've never listened to them (I did enjoy his book All Creatures Great and Small back in high school). Of course these books are not sci-fi.
About a year ago, I read in Asimov's Science Fiction that there are free audio recordings of short stories on the web. The column writer recommended several websites. I suppose I have time to listen to some in my car. Has anybody ever tried listening to an audio book while running or working out?
However, nothing has really sparked my interest in audio books/stories. What's it gonna' take to get me interested? Are there any superb stories or books out there not worth missing? Are there any good free ones out there?
Quoteit's tough to hear in my Jeep but I too have an Ipod with headphones so I normally will listen to that while sitting in traffic.
Hey Kenny, isn't that illegal here in California?? Watch out for the cops.
Quote from: PepperDude on June 18, 2007, 12:32:43 PM
Hey Kenny, isn't that illegal here in California?? Watch out for the cops.
Yes it is illegal.. but I do one bud in my ear.. looks like I'm on a cell phone. :)
I'm now on the third Star Trek Vangaurd book. This is a really fun TOS series!
Quote from: Bryancd on June 18, 2007, 02:27:26 PM
I'm now on the third Star Trek Vangaurd book. This is a really fun TOS series!
I have read the first two and liked them. Time to get number three. I'm finally about to start reading the Legacy of the Force series - book 1 - Betrayal. Also, I have the first Stephen King Dark Tower book on deck (never got around to reading that series yet).
Dark Tower will suck you in! It's fascinating stuff!
I have been reading the Legacy of the Force series as well, I am on Book two right now, Bloodlines. So far it has been fantastic, I have not been this excited about Star Wars books since the Thrawn Trilogy. I will probably take a break after Bloodlines and read a Star Trek Enterprise book. I want to pace myself, as it will be a year before book 5 of the series comes out in paperback, so I will save Tempest and Exile for later in the year.
I'm reading The Courtship Of Princess Leia. Its taking me a long time to finish this novel, just not my cup of tea. I think I'll pick up the Thrawn Trilogy next.
Just started the Taken Trilogy by Alan Dean Foster. Not too far into it yet, but pretty interesting so far.
Duffster
Quote from: Jen on June 25, 2007, 10:57:41 AM
I'm reading The Courtship Of Princess Leia. Its taking me a long time to finish this novel, just not my cup of tea. I think I'll pick up the Thrawn Trilogy next.
You'll love the Thrawn books, they are very exciting!
I'm currently reading Hard Rain by Barry Eisler. It is a "Cool Assassin" novel, in the vein of The Bourne Identity, but more thriller-esqe instead of actioney. (HA! Envy my word makey uppey skills!)
I finished The Labyrinth Key my Howard Hendrix just a few days ago, and The Ghost Brigades by John Scalzi a few days before that, so I'm looking forward to jumping into the last book of that trilogy, The Last Outpost.
Next on the list: The Last Outpost, John Scalzi; Rainbow's End, Verner Vinge; Rain Storm, Barry Eisler; White Knight, Jim Butcher; Broken Angels, Richard K. Morgan; and The Android's Dream, John Scalzi.
My Dad, who is awesome by the way, got me first editions of the first issues of Star Trek and Star Trek: The Next Generation comic books for my B-day. I was super surprised when I opened the present and saw those two comics there. It was great.
Also, another great series that I am reading is the Star Trek: Mirror Universe series. I had to do a big report on it for my English class.
First, I had to make a logo, letterhead, and buisness card for my *fake* agent company. Then I had to write a letter to my English and Computers teachers (it was a joint project) to try to convince them to have me make a presenation on the book, to see if they will "publish" it. If it wasnt a good letter, then you would have to do it again, or you would not know the date of your presenation and have to be prepared EVERY day. I got accepted. Then I had to do a resume for my Author then make a book cover and back for the book including the barcode, price, etc... and put it on the book. Then I had to do the presenation, using powerpoint, and talk about my author, my company, myself, my book, and the literary elements in the story. It was fun but really challanging and it took up the last 10 weeks of my 9th grade career, but it paid off with six 100s and two 95s.
For those of you who made it through that long and boring story, read the Star Trek: Mirror Universe 2-book series. You wont regret it.
It containts short stories set entirely in the mirror universe with one for each Star Trek series and one for the awesome Star Trek: New Frontier series.
By the way, Star Trek: New Frontier is a great series to read. And the Harry Potter is coming out...
I have just started the Thrawn Trilogy and I must say I am hooked! Hopefully reading this will help get into the NJO series a bit more because I still have not gotten through "Vector Prime" yet.
The Thrawn Trilogy will take a back seat on July 21st though as I will be thoroughly engrossed in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (as I am susure many on the forum will be also).
The rest of the year I am looking to pick up the last 2 books in Harry Turtledove's absolutely fascinating and extensive alternate history series that consists of 11 books total I believe. A second Darth Bane novel is coming out by Drew Karpyshyn, and I am really looking forward to the Death Star novel due out in the fall also.
Thrawn Trilogy rocks dude. Gotta read those again if I can find them.
Quote from: Darth Gaos on July 12, 2007, 12:21:09 PM
I have just started the Thrawn Trilogy and I must say I am hooked! Hopefully reading this will help get into the NJO series a bit more because I still have not gotten through "Vector Prime" yet.
The Thrawn Trilogy will take a back seat on July 21st though as I will be thoroughly engrossed in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (as I am susure many on the forum will be also).
The rest of the year I am looking to pick up the last 2 books in Harry Turtledove's absolutely fascinating and extensive alternate history series that consists of 11 books total I believe. A second Darth Bane novel is coming out by Drew Karpyshyn, and I am really looking forward to the Death Star novel due out in the fall also.
I loved Path Of Destruction. I can't wait for the second Karpyshyn novel. I was riveted by the first one. I've seen those alternate history novels...they look very interesting. Are they well written? I've been tempted to pick one up.
I've been listening to the unabridged version of Vulcan Soul book I, Exodus, at work. That audio book is the BEST one I've listen to thus far. I love the back story they included about ancient Vulcans. I'm going to buy the next one from iTunes very soon. The unabridged version was well worth the extra money.
I just finished Gene Kranz's autobiography "Failure Is Not An Option" following his career as Flight Director at Mission Control Mercurey through Apollo. Awesome stuff.
Keeping with my NASA theme, I am now readin "Apollo 13" by Jim Lovell.
I'm reading my way through GamesWorkshop novels right now, just killing time until the next Terry Pratchett is released.
Quote from: Jen on July 12, 2007, 07:37:10 PM
I loved Path Of Destruction. I can't wait for the second Karpyshyn novel. I was riveted by the first one. I've seen those alternate history novels...they look very interesting. Are they well written? I've been tempted to pick one up.
They are very well written. I will give you a background....
The series really begins with a book named
How Few Remain. It begins in the year 1881 in an America where the Confederacy won the Civil War (thanks, if I remember correctly, to Lee's Order 191 not being found by Union troops which allows Lee to actually surprise McClellan at Antietam and drive and destory the Army of the Potomac near Philadelphia). The Confederacy purchases two territories from Mexico thereby allowing the CSA to stretch from Atlantic to Pacific...the USA does not like this and the two once again find themselves at opposite ends of the battlefield.
After that book is a series of three books known as the "Great War Trilogy" which as the name surmises moves forward in time to WWI in which the European trench warfare that we know from history books is fought on American soil as well.
Next is the "American Empire Trilogy" which is inter-war America (1920-1940)...great series of books.
Finally is the "Settling Account Quartet" which details an alternate WWII.
What I love about Turtledove is he uses real-life notable people at times and puts them into not unbelivable alternate history scenarios. He is also not afraid to kill what are perceived to be primary characters if the story dictates.
Overall I would say if you are fan of US history and World history to an extent and you like a good "what-if" story....I HIGHLY recommend these books.
You can find a bit more info at the Wiki entry for Harry Turtledove (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Turtledove#The_Southern_Victory_or_Timeline-191_Series).
I am in the process of reading Heinlein's Stranger in a Strange Land. I loved Heinlein growing up, The Moon is a Harsh Mistress, being one of my favorites, but I have to say this book has been a grind to read. Very slow developing. I'm about 1/3 the way thru and already looking forward to another book.
Todd
I'm nearly halfway through Harry Potter 6. I just finished Order of the Phoenix last week and just went right onto Half-Blood Prince. I forgot how good these books are.
I'm worried that I'll run across spoilers for The Deathly Hallows, so I'm trying to get through all the books ASAP.
Also I'm "reading" the books. That is, I'm listening to the unabridged audiobooks on my iPod. (Thanks to my local library!)
Aren't the books on CD just the best. I have them all and listen to them every few months from Sorcerers Stone to Half Blood Prince.
I'm currently listening to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I physically read the book in three days when it came out last month. Now I'm taking my time and really enjoying listening to it.
I'm reading Darth Bane-Paths of Destruction. Very cool, very Sith!
Quote from: StarTrekFanatic5 on August 26, 2007, 08:48:38 AM
Aren't the books on CD just the best?
Yes, Jim Dale is one of the best readers I've heard. Him and David Ogden Stiers on the Clancy books are my favorites.
Quote from: Bryancd on August 26, 2007, 09:00:49 AM
I'm reading Darth Bane-Paths of Destruction. Very cool, very Sith!
I think I am going to go pick that one up today and start reading.
I'm reading a book called Spin State by Chris Moriarty.
It's about a future where most of humanity no longer lives on Earth. They created clones to help with mundane tasks, and the clones broke off and "perfected" themselves, calling themselves the Syndicate. Now they compete with humanity for toeholds in the universe. There are Artificial Intelligences, a wireless Universal network called the Spin, and cyborg-enhanced soldiers to fight against the Syndicate.
Here's a pretty decent review, giving it 8 out of 10. http://www.eyrie.org/~eagle/reviews/books/0-553-58624-6.html
It's a little dense, but very good. He's got a second one called Spin Control, which I will be picking up shortly.
Currently I'm reading one of the latest Star Trek: TNG books called THE BURIED AGE. It's a story about the years between Picard's command of the Stargazer and the Enterprise. So far I am really enjoying it! Christopher L. Bennett is a very good writer and really draws you into his stories.
Kevin
Quote from: Bryancd on August 26, 2007, 09:00:49 AM
I'm reading Darth Bane-Paths of Destruction. Very cool, very Sith!
Can't WAIT for the next book. Sooooo good!
I just finished reading Judas Unchained by Peter F. Hamiltion, second book of the Commonwealth Saga. The first is Pandora's Star. Very good hard sci fi. Interesting world, interesting take on space exploration as well. They use wormholes that trains travel through to get from world to world. Becuase of this as a society humanity never really develops star ships....Not until the events of Pandora's Star, that is. Very good books, hard to put down once you get into them, though it took me awhile to get interested at first.
I have Pandora's Star. I haven't gotten to it yet.
I finished reading A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore and I must say that I liked it quite a lot. The book was funny and had its warm, touching moments. It revolves around Charlie who becomes a Death Merchant (kinda' like Death but not exactly; he's more like "Santa's Helper of Death"). Here's a small excerpt from a review at About.com:
"It's all spectacularly funny and yet there's a beating heart to Moore's tale of dying and rejuvenation. Charlie's interactions with the dying, antics aside, reflect its author's genuine warmth for his fellow man. When Charlie visits a woman dying of liver cancer, his reassurances that it's not her fault are touching. When his mother is dying, her final playful moments are sweet and poignantly true, as her hospice nurse explains:
It happens again and again. I've seen people come out of a coma and sing their favorite songs and all I can tell you is to enjoy it. People see the light come back into eyes that have been dull for months, and they start to place hope on it. It's not a sign of getting well, it's an opportunity to say goodbye. It's a gift."
The rest of the review is here: http://contemporarylit.about.com/od/fiction/fr/aDirtyJob.htm (http://contemporarylit.about.com/od/fiction/fr/aDirtyJob.htm)
I recommend this book. I'll be reading another one of his books in the near future; it's titled "You Suck" (it's about vampires).
Just finished Making Money by Terry Pratchett, a good book but not as good as Going Postal.
I've got 3 GamesWorkshop Black Library books on the go, the Genevieve omnibus (I've finished the first book but got bogged down in the second), the Blackhearts Trilogy (again into the second book but Making Money came out, so its been put down). Finally the potentially last ever Gaunts Ghosts novel just turned up so I'm reading that one for now. Black Library aren't exactly literary masterpieces but they are action packed and have some strong characters in them, plus they are usually a quick read.
Half way through Harry Potter 7 now. After that I plan to catch up on the Star Wars Legacy of the Force series, I've only read the first three books. Also I just ordered Star Wars: Vault (http://www.amazon.ca/Star-Wars-Vault-Treasures-Memorabilia/dp/0061257311 (http://www.amazon.ca/Star-Wars-Vault-Treasures-Memorabilia/dp/0061257311)). Though I wouldn't call that much of read I'm super excited to go through it.
Not reading much right now. Didn't bring any books with me which might have been a mistake...oh well.
King Linksr
Reading "The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman. Wanted to read it before the movie comes out.
I just finished Into The Wild
I'm reading a fantastic history about the Three Stooges called THE THREE STOOGES SCRAPBOOK. I an learning a whole lot about them I never knew. Sony has started releasing the complete collection of all their 190 shorts and volume one just came out this week. They had fascinating lives and careers.
Kevin
I'm reading the latest Next Generation novel- Before Dishonor, as well as DS9: Mission Gamma pt. I- Twilight.
I'm gonna go back and finish the last 4 novellas of One Million A.D., edited by Gardner Dozois. It has six novellas that portray humanity one million years (or more) in the future. The writers include: Robert Reed, Robert Silverberg, Nancy Kress, Alastair Reynolds, Charles Stross, and Greg Egan. I enjoyed the first 2 novellas.
Quote from: wraith1701 on November 01, 2007, 05:56:35 PM
I'm reading the latest Next Generation novel- Before Dishonor, as well as DS9: Mission Gamma pt. I- Twilight.
Wraith,
Have you read Resistance and Q&A first or are you just picking this one up because of Peter David's name on it? How are you enjoying it? I have not gotten a copy yet but intend to read it.
Oh...and I forgot to mention I am also reading a Justice League of America book called Wonder Woman - Mythos by Carol Lay. Very fun read!
Kevin
Star Wars: Death Star.
Quote from: Jen on November 02, 2007, 11:51:11 AM
Star Wars: Death Star.
That is so on my list once I catch up on Legacy of the Force. How do you like it so far?
O.o is it good Jen? Sounds like an interesting book.
King Linksr
Quote from: Ktrek on November 01, 2007, 09:01:36 PM
Quote from: wraith1701 on November 01, 2007, 05:56:35 PM
I'm reading the latest Next Generation novel- Before Dishonor, as well as DS9: Mission Gamma pt. I- Twilight.
Wraith,
Have you read Resistance and Q&A first or are you just picking this one up because of Peter David's name on it? How are you enjoying it? I have not gotten a copy yet but intend to read it.
Kevin
I used to be an avid reader of the Next Gen books, but the ones released after Nemesis (the
A Time To series) just didn't click with me, so I dropped them. The wait between releases of
New Frontier books lead me to give Next Gen another try, and I'm glad that I did! I read both
Resistance and
Q & A, and was pleasantly surprised! :)
I like the fact that the relaunch books are all part of a large, continuing story, and I like the direction they are taking with Picard and Crusher's relationship. The make-up of the new senior staff is pretty interesting... I like the byplay and tension that is developing between the "old guard" and the new officers. I'm also impressed with their depiction of the "new" Borg; they seem even more dangerous and scary than they were in
First Contact.
Of course, having been written by Peter David,
Before Dishonor strikes me as being the best of the batch so far. :)
Thanks Wraith! I appreciate your input and now I am more excited to get a copy of Before Dishonor! I was planning on getting it anyway because I am a huge Peter David fan, at least as far as his Trek books are concerned, but I have not seen it in stores here yet. I might have to order it online!
Kevin
I am reading a history book as I usually do, It's called Agustus. If you are interested at all in Rome and it's history this is really a great book.
http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9781400061280
Quote from: billybob476 on November 02, 2007, 11:59:11 AM
Quote from: Jen on November 02, 2007, 11:51:11 AM
Star Wars: Death Star.
That is so on my list once I catch up on Legacy of the Force. How do you like it so far?
Yep, so far so good. It starts off highlighting several characters per chapter—one character is written about then in the next chapter switches to another and so on and so forth. I heard Brock (the book club guy) on Star Wars Action News say that he thought it made the book hard to get into at first. It's not bothering me, in fact I really want to know more about the prisoner they highlighted who is on her way to work on the Death Star.
We should start a little Star Wars book club. I'm looking forward to reading the next Darth Bane novel, maybe we could start with that one. I know a few other members have expressed an interest in it.
Right now I'm going in and out of reading the Rihannsu: the Bloodwing Voyages omnibus. But it's going slowly, partly due to school work, but also due to the fact that it's really hard to carry around (it's pretty big). One of my friends noted that it was published by pocket books, right before he tried in vain to fit it in his pocket. :D
I am struggling thru Revelation Space by Alastair Reynolds. It has been on a shelf for months because I purchased it on the basis of reviews of sci-fi books on an SF site. It did not pass my 20 page test so I quit. Someone on another message board recommended it so I decided to force my way thru and discuss it with him.
It is what I regard as literary science fiction not scientific science fiction. It reminds me of Dune. I probably would have liked it better 20 years ago. It tries my patience now.
psik
Quote from: Jen on November 03, 2007, 04:08:38 PM
Quote from: billybob476 on November 02, 2007, 11:59:11 AM
Quote from: Jen on November 02, 2007, 11:51:11 AM
Star Wars: Death Star.
That is so on my list once I catch up on Legacy of the Force. How do you like it so far?
We should start a little Star Wars book club. I'm looking forward to reading the next Darth Bane novel, maybe we could start with that one. I know a few other members have expressed an interest in it.
I'd be down with that. I was waiting for the SWAN book club to get going, but I think I'd like to do the newer books instead of re reading the books I've read many times already.
I just finished "Before Dishonor" last night. Outstanding book!
As always, Peter David hit the ball out of the park with this one. Tensions that have been building up over the last 2 books come to a head, and the status quo of the Star Trek universe is altered in a pretty major way.
Unfortunately, some fans might be upset by some of the things that occur in the story. David doesn't pull any punches. But to me, this is better than having a story in which nothing really happens. If you are a Next Gen fan, I strongly recommend that you check out this book. To get the full effect, however, you should read "Resistance" and "Q & A" first.
Quote from: Jen on November 03, 2007, 04:08:38 PM
We should start a little Star Wars book club. I'm looking forward to reading the next Darth Bane novel, maybe we could start with that one. I know a few other members have expressed an interest in it.
I'm in. And if it works out o.k., maybe we could include a skype roundtable discussion in a future podcast. What do you think, Rico?
Great idea. Though I pretty much stick to Star Wars novels, I just finished "Star Trek: The Good Men Do". Excellent novel btw. We should mix and match genres.
....i am reading Gardens of the Moon by Steven Erikson.....so far it is really good (just on page 26)...anyone read it....if so....what did you think?
Book club is a super good idea, I'm willing to handle some of the admin duties on it. Maybe we should create a new thread to throw around some ideas?
I am up for a Book Club. I don't read a lot of Star Wars novels, but have enjoyed the ones I read. Could we cover other books beside Star Wars novels?? I am cool with SW also, just like to read!
Duffster
Certainly, I don't read a lot of Trek Books but I do read a smattering...I listen to more Trek audio books .
I was going to ask you if you wanted to be apart of it. You could be our leader! :)
I second that nomination!
Eeeek... I'm bein railroaded son, railroaded I say. :o Although I don't mind. Would this be something like we read a few chapters each week and discuss, or give a few weeks for an entire novel??
Duffster
Quote from: Duffster on November 06, 2007, 07:46:11 AM
Eeeek... I'm bein railroaded son, railroaded I say. :o Although I don't mind. Would this be something like we read a few chapters each week and discuss, or give a few weeks for an entire novel??
Duffster
OOOOO Me likely this idea as I don't have any Star Trek or Star Wars novels with me.
I say do what you want to do.
King Linksr
I am going to create another thread for this discussion.
Duffster
Finished "The Golden Compass" today. It was very, very good. Can't wait for the movie in a few weeks. Now on to the "Deathstar" book once it gets here from Amazon.
I'm on chapter 18 of The Golden Compass.. I'm really enjoying it so far.
I got involved with a geeky group who want to start reading some Death Moon book :D
That's no moon....
I wanted to read the Harry potter series but i'm just now getting around to it and i'm on book 5. :D
i'm addicted now though.
Started Death Star, all I'll say until we start talking is "interesting"
Hey...no reading ahead. They made me stop. :D
Quote from: Boothanew on November 16, 2007, 12:55:27 PM
I wanted to read the Harry potter series but i'm just now getting around to it and i'm on book 5. :D
i'm addicted now though.
You are in for a real treat... the HP series alot of fun.. I got into it with book four came out and have read/listen to them many many times now.
well...i tried reading them when the first book came out..but my mom was so against me reading them then..haha.
i'd read the first and second one before when iwas younger..but started over and just wanted to read them all.
Quote from: Jen on November 16, 2007, 01:10:14 PM
Hey...no reading ahead. They made me stop. :D
Just figured I'd get a head start since I don't have a holiday weekend coming up!
I just finished The Golden Compass.. wow what a depressing ending.. if you can call it an ending. Luckily I have the next two novels. Now it's on to the Subtle Knife.
I am on book 4 of the Legacy of the Force Series "Exile". I have really been enjoying these. What's great is that you don't need to have read all the New Jedi Order books to read these. I only read the first few NJO books but man that story line dragged on way too much for me. But legacy you can pick up and go and still understand the back story.
I agree with you Bryan, that the Legacy of the Force series is Fantastic. I have read the first two, and really should start the next few soon. I did aread a few New Jedi Order, but agree it dragged a lot, and glad that they were really not a pre req for this series.
You have some fun reading ahead for the LOTR Trilogy. Hopefully that "Deathstar" book will get to me in the couple of days. That's next on my reading list.
I have tried about 6 times to get through all of LOTR. I just can't do it. The furthest I've gotten so far is a little over halfway through Two Towers. I don't know why, I love fantasy, I love the world, I just can't read all the way through.
Quote from: billybob476 on November 21, 2007, 05:46:14 AM
I have tried about 6 times to get through all of LOTR. I just can't do it. The furthest I've gotten so far is a little over halfway through Two Towers. I don't know why, I love fantasy, I love the world, I just can't read all the way through.
Me too. I also stopped halfway through Two Towers. I love the writing style, but I started reading another book at the same time (LOTR at lunch and the other book at night). Then I just didn't have time to do that and had to choose one over the other. I don't even remember the book I dropped The Two Towers for. Sad huh?
Quote from: billybob476 on November 21, 2007, 05:46:14 AM
I have tried about 6 times to get through all of LOTR. I just can't do it. The furthest I've gotten so far is a little over halfway through Two Towers. I don't know why, I love fantasy, I love the world, I just can't read all the way through.
You guys should try the audiobooks. I have now listening to the entire series three times and I love it.
Actually I am the same as Jen and Billybob, I got midway through the Two Towers and stopped. Not really sure why, as out of the 3 movies the Two Towers was my favorite. I do hope to try again some time, as I really do want to learn more then what I saw in the movies about Lord of the Rings.
Wow I found The Two Towers to be quite exciting--certainly a lot more than the first book.
I received my copy of Death Star yesterday. Since I'm a slow reader I started reading it today.
Star Trek TNG RESISTANCE and also Q&A
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
If you read past this then don't blame me!
*
*
*
*
*
*
Don't say I didn't warn ya!
*
*
*
*
*
You still wanna read?
*
*
*
*
*
I finally finished "Resistance" after about 15 times of trying to get through it! Yeesh! I really hated the whole Picard becoming Locutus again. It was just too improbable that Worf and Beverly would have even allowed Picard to do such a thing. The details of the rescue attempt was well written but the Borg queens demise seemed really anti-climatic. All in all I would give Resistance 2 out of 5 stars.
"Q&A" on the other hand I could not put down. It was a very fun read and very well structured. If I had a complaint it would be only one... If Picard was so affected the first time he was assimilated by the Borg how is it that there seems to be no repercussions of his latest assimilation? After all, the modified nanites did not work (in the book RESISTANCE) and so he basically was Borg again. Q&A picks up mostly as if nothing really happened and Picard is just back at full duty as his old self again. No problem! Outside of that I think the writing of the characters was spot on. The story was imaginative and was most definitely a Q story. I loved how Krad interwove all the Q episodes as to make sense as one whole rather than as random Q appearances. Pure genius KRAD! KRAD continues to surprise me and always always makes me laugh out loud in his stories and I really appreciate that! I would rate Q&A 4 out of 5 stars
"That's all,folks!"
Kevin
Now on to "Before Dishonor"
Just finished Before Dishonor and this is Peter David at his finest, with good story, and great humor. *SPOILER* You may want to check out David's Vendetta for some background on this one. All - star lineup, and wraps up (for a while, I hope, I pray to Q) the Borg story line.
Hope everyone enjoys this book. I'm on to Burning Dreams! Pike rules, or at least Captains!
Welcome Capt Ent01! Nice to see you.