Review: Secrets of the Monarch by Allison DuBois

This is the latest book by the author who inspired the TV show Medium. I've read her previous books, and this was equally as enjoyable. Even though DuBois is not a 'great' writer, the subject she writes about is fascinating enough to keep her on my 'must read author' list. It's a shame that her writing is all over the place, I really think she needs a better editor.

There are some great stories throughout the book of people Allison has met and provided readings for, and I really enjoyed reading about their special moments.

My rating = **

Carpe Librum!

Review: Spy In Chancery by Paul Doherty, P.C. Doherty

An easy read over Christmas was Spy in Chancery by Paul Doherty. This is another book in the Hugh Corbett series of medieval mysteries, and I really enjoyed it.

I was thrilled to notice that Paul Doherty has a new book out this month, and it's going to take a LOT of self discipline not to skip the next 8 or so books in the series to get to the new one...

My rating = ***

Carpe Librum!

Review: Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe

Well, I'm pleased to say that I finally finished Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe. I have always wanted to read this book given its status as an American classic, and that the author was considered to be the first 'serious' female American author.

The novel was published in 1852 and addresses the issue of slavery in such a confronting and raw way that it would have been very difficult to ignore in its time. I must admit that I struggled to get through this one, as the dialogue of the characters is extremely authentic to the times and therefore difficult to follow. The subject matter is also quite heavy and religion is mentioned on almost every page.

All in all, I can now see why this book is called a 'classic' and I'm really glad I persisted and finished it.

Would I recommend it? That's difficult to say... if you like to challenge yourself every now and again by reading a classic (like I do) then sure, this is worth it.

Rating = ***

Carpe Librum!

Christmas Message

I've been neglecting my blog these last few months :-( as I've been really busy. I completed my Diploma of Business with Swinburne in November and took out both course awards, dux and best project. Needless to say I worked damn hard all year, and I was thrilled to the wisdoms.

The lead up to Christmas has been really hectic, and I'm sorry to say that this year I've been the most disorganised ever! Usually I have my tree up in November and cards mailed first week of December. Well this year, my tree went up in December. My laptop died a few weeks ago, which contained most of the addresses and email addresses I needed for my Christmas correspondence, argh! I've had to make do however I didn't send all my cards and I feel terrible! (If you could send me an email so I can add you back into my address book that would be great).

The best part is that I'm now on holidays for a few days, and looking forward to Christmas with my family. Now that I have finished studying and have time to read again, I'm almost finished my latest book, so stay tuned for a review.

I'll be back at work on NYE and I'm excited about 2008 and finally making plans for the wedding. Merry Christmas to my faithful readers, and a safe and Happy New Year!!!

That's my four bucks!