I need your help.
I am desperately seeking…
Book.
Or books.
You see, I listen to audio books a lot when I am working.
Mostly real life stuff.
I just finished two.
But I am so incredibly desperate for one of those books that you lose yourself in for hours, I can’t even tell you.
I want to curl up in the evenings, and relax in the hammock as monsoon winds blow in…
And read read read.
Have you read anything you can recommend?
I am open to all sorts of books.
I especially love non-fiction.
But I like fiction too if it is done well.
I like fantasy, but some things I can’t get into.
I don’t know why, if I live in my own weird fantasy orb?
Strange but true.
I LOVE mystery too.
And crime.
I know creepy.
And I love intense real life tales.
And fairy tales too.
I like grown up tales and childlike tales.
I like scary and pretty.
I like messy and crazy.
I like wonderful and sweet.
I love touching.
I like outrageous blow your mind tales.
I love animal tales too.
What I mean is, I like a lot of things.
And I am open.
I have about 6 bookcases of books.
Stacks and stacks of them.
If I find myself in a bookstore, especially and old book store with resale books…
I leave with boxes of pages.
I huddle in corners for hours in old book stores.
(although I haven’t done that in ages upon ages)
I love the smell of old books.
Musty books.
Forgotten books.
Hidden notes in books.
I am a book hog.
A book sloth.
A greedy book girl.
And yet –
I am in desperate pleading need of good books to read these days.
I have been through all of mine.
A stack of fresh words would do.
I go on amazon and book lists, looking, but I just can’t find anything.
So, I figured if you have read anything recently-
Or a while back even, that you loved…
Perhaps you could recommend something?
Pretty please?
I like a menagerie of things, so any recommendations will be appreciated.
One of my best friends recommended a book last night that I can’t wait to get called Gone Girl. And my mom says I should read some old Agatha Christie books.
I remember in my 20’s and teens, going on lots of airplanes, and picking up paperback books in the airport gift shops that I would LOVE and devour.
I would read on the beach, and at night in the hotel.
Sometimes I would huddle in the dark wood Hotel Del Coronado side lobby, and read.
By the big black piano.
We were there a lot growing up, every summer for weeks if not more.
It was a great and more than magical place for reading.
Even hidden on the stairs in the old hotel somewhere, with book, was incredible.
Smelling the ocean air waft in through all the windows.
Hoping to see the hotel ghost.
I grew up reading all the Ramona Quimby books, Anne of Green Gables, Laura Ingalls Wilder and oodles of fairy tales, then as I got older teens, all the V.C. Andrews books.
Jane Eyre…
Then haunted tales, vampires, ghosts and more.
I was a voracious reader.
But in the last couple years, I just can’t find anything to pick up.
I re-read things on my shelves, but I am itching like I have fleas, for something new to me.
Although I did read a book about a girl dealing with her mother who was a hoarder.
And I have read and re-read My Life at Grey Gardens, about 200 times.
As a little girl I lived in a house with a full library.
Thousands of books.
The seller left them all, can you believe it?
I can only dream of such a thing now.
I have to tell you a tale about the creepy things/books my mom found, scary, in those book shelves.
Gives me chills now just thinking about it.
I should tape her telling the tale, and share it with you.
I know there is lots and lots to read out there.
I just need some suggestions.
So, if you can help, I will be sooooo happy and grateful.
Can’t wait to hear what you love to read.
Love, V
ps: Speaking of old hotels.
I had a wonderful time reading in the old Jerome Grand Hotel.
A huge storm blew in on one visit in particular.
It was wonderful!
Mister Lovee and I were there for a few days.
In the late afternoon one day, while relaxing from a long day of shopping and walking –
the movie called Skeleton Key came on.
It was perfect, the whole ambience – I cherish that memory.
Then we went walking around in the storm – fabulous!
We did that a few times over the years, but not since we’ve had these younger kids.
Of the fur variety.
I LOVE old hotels, don’t you?
I’ve been in a romance phase lately, Vanessa, so I’ve been reading lots of Jill Mansell and Katie Fforde. English romances that are more subtle. I love mysteries and am waiting for a new book from my newest favorite author, Louise Penny. Elizabeth George and Martha Grimes are long time favorites. For a mystery with a bit of humor is the Agatha Raisin series by M.C. Beaton. I hope you find something! I hate when I am at a loss for books to read and nothing is “grabbing” me.
I love Rumer Godden’s books when I want to escape into my head through someone else’s world. They are always deeply personal and disturbing (in a good way!) and they stay a part of me after I have finished.
Kingfisher’s Catch Fire I can listen to (audio) over and over. Black Narcissus, In This House of Brede, The Battle of the Villa Fiorita…all good.
Even her children’s books are fantastic, deep and never talking down to kids. Gypsy Girl (her caravan home will have you drooling!), Miss Happiness and Miss Flower are special favorites in my house.
Kathy, thank you so much!! And you are so write, I am in the not
grabbing me phase, and desperate for a book…. I am going to look up all
your suggestions, thankeee!!
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 12:11:00 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Oooo ooooo, okay I am on it, oh, sounds awesome!!
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 12:11:36 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Oh my, so many books! I’m an admitted book addict too. For non fiction anything by Diane Ackerman. I think you would especially love A Natural History of the Senses and The Moon By Whale Light. Joseph Campbell was of course the master of writing on the topic of mythology. I’d also recommend anything by Hermann Hesse, you might really love his books of adult fairy tales. Charles de Lint is my favorite fantasy author.
Can’t wait to hear the tales from your mum about the haunted books! 🙂
Thank you for sharing your magical world. I look forward to all of your posts!
I am a book whore! Can I say whore here? 😉
But…I am all about fiction and fairy tales. I wish I liked non-fiction. It just doesn’t grab me. Although, I do like to read autobiographies if I’m interested in the person.
I love magical realism. Anything by Sarah Addison Allen. I especially love her book called Garden Spells, but all of her books are good: Sugar Queen, The Girl Who Chased the Moon and The Peach Keeper. She has a new one coming out in February. She took a long break. She battled breast cancer, but she’s doing good now.
In Garden Spells, there’s this beautiful character named Claire. Ava always says that you remind her of Claire. 🙂
I love spooky fiction too. The last creepy book I read, called Rotters, probably wouldn’t be for you, though. Ummmm….it was about a father/son team of modern day grave robbers. It was soooo good!
Well, I know I haven’t been much help to you, have I?
If you like a really heartbreaking but good love story…you can never go wrong with John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars. So good but sad.
xoxo
Kim
Gerushia’s New World
Have you tried the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon? I enjoyed those immensely, as they were historically based fiction with romance, some time travel through standing stones, a few witch hunts, and lots of herb lore…plus, there are gorgeous men in kilts with burring accents.
Kimcakes, I have Garden Spells, should i read it??? I guess yes
🙂
I have had it for years, but I read the first page, and didnt get into
it.
I think maybe i am not giving tales enough time to grab me???
Fault inour Stars… oooooooooooooooo!? Sounds
amazzzzzing.
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 12:48:33 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Oh Sarah, this is familiar to me?? this is a must, I know it
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 12:51:21 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher. I found this book about 20 years ago and retread it every year at least once. It is available on Amazon as a audio book but I prefer the old fashioned pages. Do give it a tryâ¤
(p.s. the movie versions can’t compare to the book….the Hallmark version barely resembled the book and the other one was ok: I’ve read it so often, that all of the scenes in my head that I made up as I read it are much better 😉!)
Oh, and YES! Do read Garden Spells ✨
Ahhh summer stories.
‘The Blue Flower’ by Henry Van Dyke 1902 Teenage fairytales. Love it.
“Hunting and Gathering” Anna Gavalda (former high school french teacher who lives outside of Paris) I devoured this one.
“Anais Nin -Fire” Her diary from 1934 -37
“A Swarm, A Flock, A Host A compendium of Creatures. Mark Doty & Darren Waterson -Poems & Art Delightful.
I will totally take youradvice totally Baroness, for sure!!!
Movie rarely stand up for me. I will read, and not watch or listen for
sure 😉
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 1:19:31 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Oh oh!! emailing you now
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 1:25:02 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Vanessa, I love books, but lately my stack of them has gotten so huge and neglected, it makes me sad. Looking back to my younger years when I used books as an escape, I loved the Laura Ingalls Wilder Books, Narnia, Nancy Drew, etc. But my most favorite since I loved animals were the Marguerite Henry horse books (juvenile, but written beautifully) and the whole James Herriott series, All Creatures Great and Small/All Things Bright and Beautiful/All Things Wise and Wonderful/The Lord God Made Them All. I wanted to become a veterinarian when I was a child and wanted to be one in the country in England like Mr. Herriott. Also, if you want a good laugh about life in general and like funny anecdotes, anything by Robert Fulghum will delight you. Happy Reading <3
P.S. I just got Life of Pi and heard that it was an awesome book. Haven’t read it yet, but can’t wait!
I hope you do share your Mum’s tale of what she found-sounds marvellously creepy!
I have been reading all sorts of different things recently. Not too many audio books though-although I did listen to a couple recently whilst driving to work, nether of which I would recommend! The best audio book I have listened to is ‘A Walk in the Woods’ by Bill Bryson. I expect you may have read it or listened to it as it is pretty old now but he reads it himself and it is great. Also Michael McIntyre’s autobiography. I don’t know if you know him-he is an English comedian who I didn’t much like-until I listened to his book which was very funny.My favourite books of recent months are ‘The Dogs of Winter’-Kem Nunn-a chance discovery in a charity shop (incidentally with a great note in it-in kind of teenage boy capital printing-”To Lucy, A book’s life is not just for a house warming. Take care surfer, Kevin xx) I loved this book and looked up Kem Nunn on Amazon. He hasn’t written many books but I proceeded to order them all! One was a book about crime writing in America with a chapter on him by John Williams called ‘Back to the Badlands’ I loved this too and it put me onto more crime writers. I do not usually read crime fiction so have had fin doing so. I particularly enjoyed ‘The Way Home’ by George Pelecanos. Non-fiction highlights recently have been ‘Colour’ by Victoria Finlay-just fascinating, ‘Strands, A Year of Discovery on the Beach’ by Jean Sprackland, and ‘The Viral Storm’ by Nathan Wolfe.
Other really good fiction-‘The Stone Gods’ by Jeannette Winterson (science fiction), ‘The Passage’ by Justin Cronin (Thriller/horror/apocalyptic/vampireish!) and ‘Wolf Hall’ by Hilary Mantel. Also have you read ‘Pinocchio’? If not then do-such a strange book!
Happy reading! x
Hi there, One of my all time re-readables is The Physician byNoah Gordon…I picked it up somewhere and it’a pretty much the only book I won’t lend out!
regards from an interested lurker!
OMGosh V ! What could i recommend to you? I only read fiction so thats the only recommendation you will get from me! LOL! What books have i lost myself in? Several years ago Hubby bought me White Shark by Peter Benchley i think the same guy that did Jaws and i sat down and read it all in one day….it was that good…i couldn’t put it down….. A series i enjoyed very much and couldn’t put down was the Eragon series by Paolini…..and what can i say i enjoyed the Twilight series………..I loved loved LOVED The Body Thief by Anne Rice…….and there are more…..tons more….my hubby just built me a 9 ft tall book case and he is making 2 more…..so trust me you are not the only one who covets books my dear! Hugs! deb
“I Capture the Castle” by Dodie Smith – one of my favorite movies and one of my favorite books
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern – reality-ish, fantasy-ish fiction
Anything by Simon Doonan – light and fun
Anything by Amy Stewart – cool stuff about plants, worms, gardens
“Essence and Alchemy” by Mandy Aftel – non-fiction about perfume
“Perfume” by Patrick Suskind – Creepy and the description of 18th century Paris is wonderfully stomach turning
“Queen of Fashion” by Caroline Weber – non-fiction about Marie-Antoinette and her clothes
“Bobbed Hair and Bathtub Gin” by Marion Meade – non-fiction about writers in the 1920’s
OK, OK, I’ll stop now… Hope something grabs you…
I love that you’re an avid reader. My ‘library’ holds over 500 books and I’ve read them all at least once!
If you like fantasy, with strong heroines, magic, and a bit of naughtiness I would recommend Ann Bishop’s, The Black Jewels Trilogy. Though,there are actually numerous books in this series. The first book sets the stage for things to come and it can be a bit disturbing to get through but if you can accept it for what it is, you won’t be able to put it down!
Jennifer Fallon, Trudi Canavan, and Carol Berg are also fabulous fantasy/magical writers.
Lisa, one of my fave movies ever was the movie Perfume, was that based on
the book? About the guy capturing female scent?
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 3:30:27 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
I found a review for you from NPR:
http://www.npr.org/2012/07/02/155708777/unicorns-and-witches-and-wild-mood-swings-oh-my
I agree with Kim – you MUST MUST MUST read Sarah Addison Allen! She is wonderful and to me reading her books is like reading your blog. Magical!!
I read practically non-stop (until lately) and I mostly read fiction. I find things I like and get stuck in a rut. I really like witchy reads and mysteries and romance. Anyway, you must read Garden Spells and then the rest of Sarah’s books. Let’s see, Harry Potter? Diana Gabaldon series (took me a while to actually read but it was worth it). I love the old Anne Rice books (the vampire chronicles and the mayfair witches). Cecelia Ahern’s “The Book of Tomorrow”, Kristin Hannah’s “Winter Garden”, oh and “Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares” by Rachel Cohn (i think).
hope this helps!
love & blessings
~*~
Hi Vanessa!
I also like non-fiction, and love crime stories, mysteries, and real-life stoires, so books I recently read were a bit sad, and some were funny, and some were funny and sad, here are a few books I read and enjoyed:
Lovely Bones
First They Kill My Father, written by Loung Ung
With Love and Laughter, John Ritter
A Stolen Life by Jaycee Dugard
These, except Lovely Bones are all Biographies/non-fiction, of courageous women who have lost and loved.
Love,
Kim
Vanessa – I agree with you about Garden Spells – I could not get into it either, seemed like a practical Magic wann be. If you like crime I would recommend Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. And there are two older childrens books that I re-read just because I loved reading them with my girls when they were little are The Van Gogh Cafe and Missing May by Cynthis Rylant. They are both delightful.
I think you would love “We Have Always Lived In The Castle” by Shirley Jackson.
And definitely “Rebecca” and “My Cousin Rachel” by Daphne du Maurier.
Oh, and “Chocolat” and “Sleep, Pale Sister” by Joanne Harris!
Still Alice, by Lisa Genova, and Left Neglected, by Lisa Genova. The first is about early Alzheimer’s and the second about a rare brain condition after injury called Left Neglect. The author holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from Harvard. I still worry about both of the main characters. Would you like me to mail them to you? OH, and
Heaven is Here by Stephanie Nielson (NieNie). I could send that too.
**kisskiss**
Deb
I’m in agreement with your mom about the Agatha Christie… nothing better than some Hercule Poirot to make you smile. ^-^
I’m reading A Game of Thrones right now. Well, listening to it, really. It’s amazing. It’s in the Fantasy genre, but not so fantastical that it leaves you going, “Yeah, whatever.” It’s amazing.
I’m also in love with the Pendergast series by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child. They’re so amazingly good. I’d stick them in the mystery/adventure/scary story category. The first book in the series is Relic.
As for non-fiction, I’ve also been listening to all the audiobooks by Clarissa Pinkola Estes that I can get my hands on. She is amazing, and I can listen to her talk for hours on end. ^-^
I’ve always been a big Nancy Drew fan, as far as mysteries go, and whenever I get around to having a house with a big library, I’m going to get all of her mysteries. ^-^
Another of my favorite series is by Laurel K. Hamilton, the Anita Blake series. It’s got quite a bit of violence and sex in it, so consider yourself warned. ^_~
My very first fantasy books I ever read were by Ursula K. Le Guin. A Wizard of Earthsea is the first in that trilogy.
I hope you find some good books that pique your interest! Have fun with your reading! =D
XOXO
Yes, the movie is based on the book. I remember the movie as being very beautiful visually and the book is kind of the same, though it conjures up its images via words (obviously) 😉 – Some of the most vivid descriptions I’ve ever read. I love the book, but only recommend it to those who are OK with creepy.
The House of the Spirits (La casa de los espÃritus) by Isabel Allende. There is a movie based on this book but the story is heavily modified. It’s a mix of reality and fantasy, the genre called magical realism. When I finished I felt a mixture of feelings so beautiful that I could not express it. It is a beautiful book.
Susanna Kearsley, Susanna Kearsley, Susanna Kearsley! 🙂 I think you’d love her books…they are all about modern women who have various ways of seeing into the past (along with lovely, yet not overdone, romances). 🙂 I saw mentions above of Outlander by Gabaldon, who I also adore, and Gabaldon is who sort of drove me to Kearsley; when I first came across Kearsley’s _The Winter Sea_ I read it because it was reminiscent of Gabaldon (not a copy or anything, just had that vague feeling/sense of Gabaldon)—I love Kindle’s “samples” of books so I can try them before buying. 🙂 I sampled _The Winter Sea_ and promptly bought it, and subsequently bought & devoured all of Kearsley’s books. I instantly fell in love with _The Winter Sea_, but even better is _Mariana_. Also love _The Shadowy Horses_ and _Rose Garden_. Her new book, _Firebird_, I am currently in the middle of, and since it mentions characters from _The Shadowy Horses_ and especially _The Winter Sea_, I recommend those before reading it. 🙂
I am totally with Kim…you HAVE to read Garden Spells and most especially The Girl Who Chased the Moon. Kate Morton’s books are also amazing (e.g., House at Riverton). The Birth House is also quite evocative (By Ami McKay). For a good mystery there is a fantastic series set in a quaint village of Three Pines Quebec written by Louise Penny. Happy reading 🙂
Women who run with the wolves by Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes! <3
Now I failed to see romance novels in your list, Beloved One! I once read a romance novel, or was it five times? Yes, me thinks it was five…anywho, it was called A Rose in Winter. It has everything…romance, mystery, gothic horror, and intrigue. I highly recommend it. It also takes place in Scotland…yummy!
Love to you
Anything by Laini Taylor (both of the Dreamdark books; they’re sort of dark faerie stories; Lips Touch: Three Times, three tales of kisses that change lives; and Daughter of Smoke and Bone and Days of Blood and Starlight, about a girl raised by chimaeras who falls in love with an angel.) All gorgeously written and just a little creepy/haunting. I actually found your blog because Laini Taylor linked it on hers, so you may have heard of her books already. XD
I am glad I didn’t watch the movie, so I can read this indeed!! 😉
Carroll, that sounds like a super special one. Googling it now, thank you so much for peeking out! 😉
You rock!!
Michelle, I am totally going to ask my mom if I can tape her telling the
tale.
The thing is…. When we left, we left the books.
Can you believe it?
I wish I had them all now….
Deb, today on NPR they were talking about the writer of Twilight and Anne
Rice, then we had our first massive rain mosson storm – it was awesome! I
LOOOOVED Jaws, I think I need White Shark.
Laura, totally helps, I walked around the garden today with garden spells
in my hand. But then it rained, YAY, first one since February or
something. I did a rain dance, I stayed in it hail and all, whipping winds
and all, it was amazing!! Totally reading
weather….
Kim, I know its weird… but I too like the sort of tales you speak
of. I listened to Jaycee Duggard in audiobook, as well as the new Amanda
Knox Memoir – Waiting to be heard, and Ill See You Again, by Jackie
Hance. Heart wrenchers… But such strength in the end.. you
know?
Marty, I have my moms copy of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
somewhere. And I saw the movie so long ago I all but forgot it, I should
scrounge it up. Thanks for the reminder!! And I will for sure look
into those childrens books. I am intrigued!
Karen, I just looked them up – as I loved the early Rebecca movie. I
sound like Constance(We Have Always Lived In The Castle), never leaving my large
garden for 6 years, hahahaha. I wont read anymore about it so I wont
spoil it.
OMG!! I cant believe you came back with Chocolat, one of my faves…
Also, Like Water for Chocolate, I LOVED that. Tragic romance
really….
OH DEBORAH!! You Rock, I would loooove to read them, I would send
them back to you of course. Although, I listened to Stephanies book and
have it on audio. It was great to hear her reading it. Are they
interesting too, or terribly sad? I dont mind sad, just asking
🙂
Annalee, I am sooo excited with all these recommendations!! Form
everyone. Thank you for your details, I am giddy with anticipation to get
reading some of these. I can see myself with a stack of about 30 books –
and I am soooo looking forward to it. You totally get what I mean about
fiction. I have this fine line in my soul… where – I can get into some
things that are fantastical, but others, I just cant. I just cant even
though I try. For instance, I can get into something as silly and heart
warming as Nanny Mcphee, but, I couldnt get into science fiction type
things. You know what I mean? I wasnt into Harry Potter, but I
think that was because I was just in a different phase in my life when all that
hit…. And then I never plunged. I can totally understand why it
was a sensation beyond realms, but I just never plunged. I wish I
had. But thn the movies came out, and that was that… ya
know?
Lisa, the movie is outstanding, and creepy/scary. But the chem lab
knocks my socks off in every way. I have not seen the movie in a long
time, although it set that dark old drippy dank city in my mind – so I think I
should read the book. Totally into this….
I love Isabel Allende, okay, this is on the list for
sure!!
Sara, I am totally on it. Just looked them up – I think
YES!
Lovely Nathalie, I have a vast obsession with the Québécois, and not just because a beautiful man named Dominique
tried to steal me away to his chalet in 1996 either, over the course of a few
months. I didnt go, obviously, but he does have one of my
paintings. And his love of Pavarotti in front of the fire almost totally
enchanted me into his world of snow… Alas….. life twists…
The Village of Three Pines is now calling me
for sure. As are your other suggestions. I have had Garden spells in
my possession for years, my friend Deborah lent it to me, and I still have
it. Tonight I will plunge…. Well see how it goes. 2nd try might
work 🙂
Kelly, Alice Walker (whose books I have read)gave that book a great
review!! And it has lots of stars, I think you might have got me into that
one for sure!! Just looking at in on Barnes and Noble site… Thank
you!
Scotland?? I am so there 🙂
Well, my first foray into Romance, without knowing what I was getting into
as a young gal were V.C. Andrews books.
Wholey Moley, whoppers of eye openers for a 15 year old, my goodness
gracious, romance and so much more, ahem.
I always wanted to read a trashy romance novel, the paperback ones with
Fabio on the cover 🙂
DO they stink? Have you ever read one?
I think Jane Eyre was my first intense true love novel that left me
speechless… and i wanted her to go be with him… all burnt up and
everything….
Sigh….
OH, I LOVE Laini Taylor!! I have never read any of her books, and I
just must must must. Everyone loves her so!
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 7:47:44 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Have you read The Night Circus or The Thirteenth Tale?
Ah books, the smell, the feel, the comfort of being surrounded by them. May I never be cured of my addiction to them, I like to listen to recorded books when I travel. I try to choose things I wouldn’t normally read. I am enjoying the books on CD of Robert Harris, I finished “Pompei,” a wonderful tale of ancient Rome and I am now listening to “Imperium,” about the life of Cicero. I think historical fiction is close to my favorite genre.
I would second the recommendation to read Du Maurier, the two mentioned all ready and add “Frenchman’s Creek.” I also liked Kearsley’s “The Winter Sea.” I haven’t tried others by her but probably will look for them since I liked that one. It would be hard to go wrong with anything Agatha Christie.
Now I will mention my two most favorite romantic novels of all. “Katherine” by Anya Seton, the love story of John of Gaunt and Katherine Swynford. The other is “Came a Cavalier” by Frances Parkinson Keyes, These are not modern novels, they were written in the 1940’s and 1950’s and I believe far surpass any modern romance novels.
Any of the books by these two ladies is worthy of reading, however, if you are looking for a serious chill, read Anya Seton’s “Green Darkness.” Then ask me about the day I went to Ightham Mote, the inspiration for the book. (Pause for a delightful shiver!)
As you may be noticing by now, I love older books, so my favorite writer of all time is Elizabeth Goudge. All the books this lady wrote, I adore, it is hard to pick one above the others I guess my best starter book recommendation would be “Green Dolphin Street.” There is even an old Hollywood film version of this book. She also wrote another of my all time favorite sad romances called “Child from the Sea,” based on the story of Lucy Walters and Charles II.
I won’t go into Jean Plaidy, Antonia Fraser, Peter Tremayne, Sharon Kay Penman, Alison Weir, Andre Norton, Mercedes Lackey, S M Stirling, Taylor Caldwell,… Oh Lord, someone stop me!! Otherwise, I will go on for ever.
I am driving to Seattle on the 22nd and my Son-in-Law and I will be hunting thrift books for a day. JOY and BLISS. To top it all off I will stop at Powells in Portland on the way home. Powells is Mecca for bookaholics!
The lure of books has brought me out of lurk mode, so I will finish by saying how I have enjoyed your blog. I only found it a few months ago and have had such fun catching up. Your world sparkles and beckons one in like a dew bedecked pansy at dawn or the scent of jasmine on the warm night wind. Thank you.
Love Love Kate Morton and Sarah Addison Allen–read all of hers.
Di Morrisey “Heart of the Dreaming” and “Follow the Morning Star” the sequel..awesome.
If you like sagas…then Diana Gabaldan Outlander series…be warned… these books are 800+ pages. Be sure to start with book one, “Outlander”. Lots of fantasy mixed with history.
http://www.amazon.com/Outlander-with-Bonus-Content-ebook/dp/B000FC2L1O/ref=pd_sim_kstore_28
For fun… Mary Kay Andrews books… I read them all..all are fun and fast reads..”Hissy Fit” is a good one to start with. Andrews is the pseudonym of Kathy Trocheck, primarily known for her Callahan Garrity mystery series..which I have read also LOL She is great fun.
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_9?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=hissy%20fit%20by%20mary%20kay%20andrews&sprefix=hissy+fit%2Cdigital-text%2C247
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_14?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=kathy%20trocheck&sprefix=Kathy+Trocheck%2Cdigital-text%2C179&rh=i%3Adigital-text%2Ck%3Akathy%20trocheck
Have fun sweetie!
Deb 🙂
Margaret, your book tales and loves have totally stolen my heart! I
think I need some older romance novels for sure. I think I like older
books too. New too, but older muchness for sure. I have major
Powells envy!! Remember me when you are in there 😉 I will for sure
be looking into your suggestions, authors and titles. Half of the fun of
reading a book is finding one to read- when you actually have
recommendations. Trying to find something good like a needle in a haystack
is not the path I want to take right now – but good recommendations, thats what
I am loving, thank you so much!
Love love love Kate Morton and Sarah Elizabeth Allen…read all of hers.
Di Morrisey..â€Heart of the Dreaming†and the sequel “Follow the Morning Star†wonderful read!
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-of-the-Dreaming-ebook/dp/B003R509W4/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373258353&sr=1-3
If you like sagas then Diana Gabaldon is your girl… the Outlander series is amazing… start with “The Outlander†… be warned …most of these books are 800+ pages…some over 1000. lol
http://www.amazon.com/Diana-Gabaldon/e/B000APXMEG/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
And for fun, Mary Kay Andrews books are all fun! I would start with “Hissy Fit†these are quick reads and I can’t wait for her new ones. Andrews is the pseudonym of Kathy Trocheck, primarily known for her Callahan Garrity mystery series. I have read all the Callahan mysteries too LOL.
Have fun sweetie.
Deb
Hi Vanessa!
Long time since we have spoken here…I had to laugh..I read every single romance book with Fabio on the cover..they were an easy read. I have always liked the medevil times or 16-17th century reads, ladies in waiting, ladies maids, wenches, etc…even though the stories are fiction, they are based on factual times, so that always intrigued me. While I don’t read those romances any longer, I do still love a good old old story line. I have been reading the “Hangmans Daughter” series. It can be a bit gruesome to read, but the series is full of mystery and is based on actual facts from the authors ancestors who were hangmen. They were often shunned and considered outcasts because of their job occupation. The stories are mostly fictional, but there is a bit of humor to the characters. Also, the hangman in the series also acts as a physician since he is skilled with using herbs etc. I can’t put them down. The newest book is due to come out any day.
I love the Prey series by John Sanford…they are all great and full of mystery and a hot detective with his own set of rules….
I like any Stuart Woods, James Patterson, Michael Connelly…all terrific mystery/detective thrillers
I loved the book “The Story of Beautiful Girl” a book based on factual events. It’s the story of two individuals given up by their families to an institution because they were deaf or mute. Back in the 40s or 50s many parents gave up or had their children taken from them because they were “perfect”. This book is and will always be in my top 5 all time favorite reads….it grabs your heart and never let’s go. I would love to share more, but if I could encourage any book to read, it would be this one, out of all the fabulous recommendations listed here.
I loved the Help. The book is by far much better than the movie…again, the outcast or unwanted, misunderstood or wrong color of skin, getting their chance to shine and be heard. They are people too, just like us.
Patricia Cornwell…the Kay Scarpetta series…it is a consecutive series, so you kind of need to start at the beginning of the series., which is great..they should all be on audio or you can get from the library.
I could go on and on, but these are some of my favorite reads, though I have many many more. I don’t read to much non fiction though, one of my favorite reads was “Bunny Bunny; Gilda Radner” by Alan Zweibel, her best friend. Days after I finished reading it, she succumbed to Ovarian cancer and passed away. I literally sat down and just sobbed..I fell in love with her as a person, she was just so dang funny. I still think of her often to this day… Weird fact..you know when playing a game of “if you could meet one person either living or dead, who would it be?…. I always say Gilda Radner and Bill Cosby.. 🙂
Have fun picking out some fun and spooky suspenseful reads….
Oh, just thought of one more..Prayers for Sale.. Based on fact during the gold mine days in the mountains of Colorado..light but full of heart and soul..what men and women did to survive was just amazing. We don’t know what true strength is, as we have all these modern day conveniences. This is all about loving your neighbor, taking care of those in need when you yourself are in need..wonderful read.
Tootles!
Deb, thank you oodles, I love books that people have really enjoyed.
I make sure not to set expectation son them, but I do so look forward to them –
okay, Outlander series, I hear it loud and clear several times, I cant
wait!! I am also looking into your others before I go to bed 😉
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 10:15:18 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Post scriptus spell check…
When referring to “the story of beautiful girl” I meant to say parents gave up their children to institutions for NoT being perfect..or normal in the eyes of society.
Janel!! Helooo there, so wonderful to see you! OKay, sold on The
Story of Beautiful Girl for sure – and I am totally intrigued by your other
recommendations.I am honestly and literally making a written list,
and looking all of them up because I am so desperate for good reads. I am
so excited and thankful for the tips.
Also, I must know more about the Fabio books 🙂
Janel – I watch a TON of documentaries, and you see this so often back in
the day, so awfully sad. When I was younger I had this dream that I had
this little boy, the dream was so vivid, and he had special needs. And in
my dream, I LOVED him so so so so so much, the love was pouring over. And
I was so dedicated to him – and when I woke up I was changed forever. I
always thought that if I ever had a child, that dream had prepared me for what
was to come…. it was odd…. and wonderful.
Have you seen a docu called, Dad is in Heaven with Richard Nixon? I
watch it from time to time, and I just love it. The mom was
wonderful. And I just love the sons….
If you have not already read them, I loved Tony Hillerman, and when I finished his books, I read James Doss.
Hillerman’s mysteries are based in north-eastern Arizona and New Mexico, and Doss’s take place in Colorado.
I use to live up in Indian country. I am probably one of the few white children that went to a Catholic school for Navajos.
I used to read a LOT when I was younger. I must have read The Velvet Room a million times. I always just wanted to find an old abandoned house like the one in the book with the same type of lovely library in which to while away the hours in secrecy. I ended up tracking down a copy on ebay a while back and enjoyed a little trip down memory lane. I was surprised to see the prices on that little out of print tome!
I enjoyed reading the Harry Potter series and the Song of Fire and Ice series (Game of Thrones). Now I am revisiting some of the classics like Mark Twain and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Good luck finding something to get lost in! ! !
You may already have heard this as Clarissa Pinkola Estes is so well known, but if not I definitely recommend her non fiction/ Jungian poetic/ deeply inspiring wise tale on the cd The Gift Of Story. xx
Hey Vanessa,
You are getting some wonderful suggestions, but of course I had to add to it. Laurell K. Hamilton rocks- she has two series: 1.) Anita Blake and 2.) Meredith Gentry. The fairy series is hot cha cha, violent and fun too… I concur Sarah Addison Allen, and recommend Barbara Kingsolver and Alice Hoffman (the original feminine magical authors IMHO). Oh, and have you read The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe? Very good!! I just finished the second in the series of Harkness’ books (a trilogy with the 3rd expected out soonish)- The Discovery of Witches and Shadow of the Night- long winded on the 2nd one, but worth it for the overall story. And, CPE is perfect at all times- I’m reading short one about stories before bed at night- very delicious the way she writes. 🙂
If you read any I’ve suggested, please let me know what you think!!
xo Eileen
I agree with Sarah, cross stitch was marvellous! Took me a couple of chapters to get into, but then I was hooked such magic! I LOVED it! http://www.amazon.com/Cross-Stitch-Outlander-1-ebook/dp/B005E87VRS/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1373285195&sr=1-1&keywords=Crossstitch
Wow, so many suggestions! Might have to make a list for myself!
Have you read any of Anne Perry’s Victorian mysteries? She has two series, both set in the Victorian period & both featuring strong women, the wives of the detectives.
Right now on an Elizabeth George kick – Inspector Lynley! James Patterson’s Women’s Murder Club series too. How about Alexander McCall Smith? The Number One Ladies Detective Agency and more!Martha Grimes & Marcia Mueller. Have you read “The Hunger Games” trilogy? Not like Harry Potter in content, but as part of current culture.
The Lovely Bones, Water for Elephants, Sarah’s Key, the Red Tent, A Lesson Before Dying, Sue Monk Kidd,Eugenia Price’s two trilogies — Oh, I could go on forever!
Happy Reading, sweet Vanessa!
I must throw in my upteenth book sense too! I am reading the most wonderful epic portrait of American women writers – fascinating – titled A Jury of Her Peers, by Elaine Showalter. I have a gazillion favorites, but I’m like you – I typically prefer nonfiction to fiction. A few recommends – A History of the Senses, by Diane Ackerman; The Rapture of Canaan (fiction) by Sheri Reynolds (she’s a quirky, southern fiction writer who incorporates elements of internal narrative and mysticism with some not-so-pretty truths); always, always – To Kill a Mockingbird by the ingenious Harper Lee; and a bit of a throwback, but still one of my all-time faves of intrigue on the high seas – The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, by Avi. I’m sure you’re up to elephant ears in recommendations by now!
I read a ton too! Pretty much anything I can get my hands on. I recently started reading the books for the Inkheart series (the movie for inkheart is pretty good as well). It is about people who can read characters out of stories into the real world. Very good.
Wow! All you gals are amazing ! I am always looking for something good to read and now I have a huge list to explore! Thank you Vaneessa for the query and all who have answered. I enjoy female writers, lately ( Sarah’s Key one that comes to mind).
Have tons of fun this weekend! Thank you all once again… XDebi
Vanessa, have you found Seanen Mcguire’s October Day books yet? Shakespeare inspired, urban fantasy crime dramas with a historical fairytale slant… I am hooked on them! They are such a fun read.
I treasure my library more than anything I own, so much so that I cannot even loan a book for fear of never seeing it again…doesn’t mean I won’t buy a new copy for someone 😉
I love, love, love books…any book, new or old but especially old used books, tattered pages, the smell, the touch of a book in my hands is heaven to me.
It looks like you have a ton of suggestions, some I will be checking out too. Most of my reading lately has been metaphysical, spiritual, philosophy, and so on. A good mystery always hits the spot.
Skeleton Key was spooky good huh? Please Vanessa’s mom, share your spooky book tales with us…pretty please 🙂
Hi Vanessa,
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane, The Lace Reader,The Thirteenth Tale..all great Reads. I love reading a book that teaches me something,In the Physick book alot of info on herbs and plants..The language of Flowers, the Godmother by Carol Turgeon.I just started a book called Eighty Days by Matthew Goodman. A true story about 2 young women reporters who try to recreate Jules Vernes novel around the world in Eighty Days.Barbara Kinsolvers Animal Dreams ,the Bean Trees ,Pigs in Heaven.Prodigal Summer..An oldie Anna and the King of Siam..I am sure you got many titles now.:-)from all your fans.The first book “Physick” was written by a young woman who had ancestors on both sides of her family convicted of witchcraft.That one may appeal to you the most.Happy Reading
Trish
SJ, thank you – I LOVE books around Arizona, NM – I can always picture them
perfectly. In fact, I have a copy of a book called Going back to Bisbee
somewhere. I should try to find it. Thank you so much for the
tips!!
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 10:39:26 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Sherrill, Robert Louis Stevenson is one of my heart of hearts!!!
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/7/2013 11:51:43 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Emalina, I am just looking it up right now…. Also, come to thing of
it – I have all my 400 level Jung books to an old beau with cancer….
Just a random memory… Thank you for the tip!!
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/8/2013 3:16:58 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Oh, I have some Alice Hoffman somewhere I know…but where? I think I
am feeling much more open to fiction all of a sudden. Like my snobbery
towards it not being true has totally subsided. I need some fiction in
my life I feel strongly – I mean, how much can you read about tragedy in real
lives and the harrowing terrors/sadbess or the Dust Bowl and such? I think
my real world mind needs a break ;))
OKay, I am definitely picking this up. A handful saying good things
about it has totally caught me, thank you lovely you!!
😉
Jane, I saw the movie Lovely Bones, and wished to all wishes I had read the
book first. The movie really made me have strong feelings – it was like –
it grasped me. Is the book much better? I bet yes.
I have water for elephants – of course, saw the movie before
reading… not smart. I liked the movie – but I think once you watch
the movie, you sort of preprogram your brain and ruin the book.
Love your suggestions – I think I am going to type out a list – as there is
so much goodness being suggested, I am so excited!!!
Lauren, thank you oodles!! I am LOVING all these thoughts and ideas,
especially since its from like minded friends you know? Makes it more
like I want to read them all. I think for sure, I am going to make a list
and work my way through it. My library lets you make a list of wants, and
reserves as you go, so this is the plan. I am sooo excited!! I was
going to buy a bunch, but I want to read to many, I think I will make use of the
library 😉
Rebecca, I have this somewhere!!! I must find it! You have
inspired me!
Miss Puddleduck, I sooo agree, everyone has rocked with these
suggestions. And it has lit a HUGE flame in me. I am sooooo beyond
looking forward to a lot of these reads, it is better than a vacation. I
think I will compile a list to share…. Thanks cant do enough, I agree
this is fabulous info!!
RhoAnna, just pulled them up online – I am intrigued!! Thank
you
Dixie, I am going to maybe tape my mom when I see her on her Birthday, July
31st. I hope she says yes.
I agree with you, I can never loan a book. In fact I made a huge pact
with myself never to do so. Then a few years ago an oldreal estate
client/friend wanted to borrow this HUGE astrology book I had. I said
yes. BUt you HAVE to return it.
I asked her for it8 weeks later, and she said I never lent anything
as such to her, and she just could not remember. I was floored and totally
beyond sad.
So, now I really never lend books. I have had my friends copy of
Garden Spells for 2 years, I hope she doesnt mind – she says she doesnt, as
she already read it a couple times.
Someone wanted to borrow this incredible antique bookI have once, and
i had to just say no. Learning how to say no is sooo hard!! But I
knew I would never see it again – and it is irreplaceable totally. And
worth about 600 dollars.
I LOVE BOOKS, you LOVE BOOKS, we ALL LOVE BOOOOOKS!!
xoxo
Trish, you are dead on, I am totally into that witchy business
😉 I love your list, off to google, thank you thank you!!
I dont think we can gather too many good titles- A proper list would
be excellent with all these for sure.
Thankeee 😉
Yes, I totally came back to see if you wanted the books! Left Neglected is SO inspiring and ends fabulously. “Left Neglected is an unforgettable story about finding abundance in the most difficult of circumstances, leaning to pay attention to the details, and nourishing what truly matters”.
Still Alice also ends good, in spite of her Alzheimer’s descent. She is still Alice. “An accomplished woman slowly loses her thoughts and memories to a harrowing disease-only to discover that each day brings a new way of living and loving”.
They are both about the triumph of the human spirit.
Mailing to you tomorrow.
**happy smiles**
Deb
Both fiction and *so* good! The first book I read this year, which I could not put down: The Language Of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh and the one I’m reading now which I can’t put down: The Lost Saints Of Tennessee by Amy Franklin-Wills. Both are transportive, when I’m reading them I am in their worlds.
I have 7 bookcases in our home and 2 down in the basement! And books just about every where else 🙂 I love and adore books! I will browse my “all time favorites” bookcase in the livingroom to see if there’s anything else I can recommend.
Anything by John Irving (think The Hotel New Hampshire and The Cider House Rules), to name a couple.
See you in a few ~ I’m madly working away on my tea party post …
Jo, okay so, I think The Language of Flowers needs to be on the top of my
list 😉
Tami, OH YES!! I loved The Cider House Rules!! I am barely
beginning to work on my party, eeeeks!!
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/8/2013 9:19:56 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
Hello!
Oh, I love to read. I especially enjoyed The Night Circus. It’s been out for a couple of years, so it’s available in paperback. The descriptions of the circus (magical and unusual) are unique and lovely.
I also loved the pyschological mystery Gillespi and I. It takes place in turn of the 20th century in Scotland. There are no clear answers at the end of the book, but I like that. It leave you wondering… Did she or didn’t she.
Right now I am reading (it’s right next to me on the couch!) a BIG biography of Edward Burne-Jones called The Last Pre-Raphaelite. Just started, but enjoying the first few chapters.
I also do like cozy crime so I enjoy MC Beaton and Christie, too.
Happy Reading.
Sarah, I had preordered a lovely hard back of the Night Circus when it
first came out, and have had it ever since – I cant get past the first few
pages…. should I keep reading on?? I think yes. I dont know why I
cant get into it fiddlesticks!!! 😉
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/8/2013 11:33:09 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
I mostly read gardening and homesteading books, but I love biographies (Chrysalis by Kim Todd and Tesla: Man out of Time by Margaret Cheney are current favorites in that genre). I think you absolutely must read Church of the Old Mermaids by Kim Antieau. I love all of her books, but start with Church of the Old Mermaids. You will not regret it, I promise you!
I listen to books on cd while I’m working, too! I work every day, so I burn through a TON of books on cd (thank goodness for my local library!).
Kate Morton has been my favorite lately. Lose myself in her books every time and LOVE LOVE LOVE all that I’ve listened to. It’s a little bit mystery, a little bit family relationships, a little bit lost loves, and generally take place both in the now and in the past. I’d also recommend anything by Neil Gaiman–especially those that he reads himself–dreamy! (his young adult ones are even great to listen to) And I second your mum’s idea on Agatha Christie–those are some of my FAVORITES to listen to, as well.
Yes go for “Night Circus” is a great fairy tale read. I LOVED it and passed it on to my daughter who has now read it 3 times. Also, a very sweet story with a lot of history is “On The Corner of Bitter and Sweet”. Right now We are reading a non-fiction aloud “Undaunted Courage” the story of Lewis and Clark, so interesting to hear what our country was like when it was young. Sad too that so much has been lost. Great read and gives a deeper understanding of so much.
Love, Love, Love to you, Mr. Lovee, Mattie, and Miles XOXOXO
I love all of Sarah Addison Allens books. But my all time favorite book is “The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield! I’ve reread it over and over! Here are my other favs: One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus, The Love Goddess’ Cooking School by Melissa Senate, Letters of a Woman Homesteader by Elinore Pruitt Stewart, The Seance by John Harwood, The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe, and anything by Kate Morton.
Hope you find what youre looking for!
I’ve got some great suggestions for my summer reading list just from the comments!! Enjoy!
I am sure people have already mentioned these in all those comments up there, but two of my favorite series are:
1. The Amelia Peabody books. Seriously if you have never read these start right now, they are mysteries, but so funny! And the characters are wonderful. And there are so many they will keep you busy for a good long while. I have read them all a million times!
2. The Song of Ice and Fire Books. I know this is kind of a trend right now because of the show, but the books really are great. I read them ages ago before most people knew what they were (wow that sounds pretentious), but they are so long and complicated (in a good way) I have to read them over and over again to remember what happens every time a new one comes out!
Wow…so glad you asked this.
This is my new list for the year!
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell (the audio version), Little Big, Quincunx (had this book for years, loan it out and everyone loves it), Carmilla (the first Vampire book) Instance of the Fingerpost, Heresy, Wolf Hall, The Meaning of Night. So much more, I was a literature students. Have fun! Let us know what you decide upon. E
Interesting how so many of us seem to have similar tastes in books. I now have quite a number of new titles on my “to read” list. Thanks!
Here are a few of my loves….
– Neverwhere – Neil Gaiman
– Jitterbug Perfume – Tom Robbins
– Garden Spells & (especially) The Girl Who Chased The Moon – Sarah Addison Allen
– anything by Charles de Lint (especially Tapping the Dream Tree & Dreams Underfoot
– A Winter’s Tale by Mark Helprin
– Unquenchable Fire by Rachel Pollack
– Daughter of Smoke and Bone & Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor
I love reading nonfiction as well, but for some reason the only one that I could come up with off the top of my head is….
Ghost Rider: Travels On The Healing Road – Neil Peart
This is basically NP’s journal, written during the road trip he took to find his way back to himself after losing first his daughter (to a road accident), and shortly thereafter his wife (to cancer).
Stunning piece of writing, this.
Enjoy!
(looking forward to the tea party 😀 )
Hi again! I have not seen that documentary, but l love them so will check it out for sure. If you haven’t, check out the documentary Rabbit Proof Fence. It’s about Aboringine girls being abducted to be put into slavery. It was allowed by the Australian government until the 1970s. Atrocious! The gist is a mother always told her daughters if they were ever taken by white men, to run away and follow the rabbit proof fence, and it would lead them home. Such a powerful story. It left me dazed for days….
I had to google the author of those Fabio books, its been 25 yrs,I think. I hate to admit i forgot her name, oye vey. Of all the romance authors back then, i always and only read Johanna Lindsey. They were either written with settings in the 1800’s or 14th-17th centuries. They were decent. If you are going to read romance, then it really should sweep you away to a fantasy life. 🙂 a hot rogue of a man, long hair, sinewy muscles, always wealthy and a stallion in the bedroom..hahahah. Don’t we all want that!
I thought of few more authors last night. First I must say some of the other peeps here are so well read…I need to branch out more!
I love the Janet Evonvich books, in particular the Money series. They are chronological too, so start at One for the Money. They are comedic love stories, only there are two hot roguish men and a grandma who totes a pistol in her purse and crashes funerals. The heroine is a bounty hunter, but not really cut out for it. My brother actually tuned me on to this series, it is literally laugh out loud funny.
It’s a good read for that outdoor tub or Gypsy Wagon getaway.. Which I fantasize about!
I love reading. We went for a short trip to VA this week and I got to read a lot of N0S4A2 by Joe Hill (one of Stephen King’s sons) I read on the freeway while hubby drives. This book is one of my faves. I am more of a horror/crime/thriller type book lover. I read anything by Jeffery Deaver, Michael Connelly, Patricia Cornwell, John Sandford, Stephen King, Dean Koontz, John Connolly, John Grisham. I read the first Game of Thrones and have the next 2 books. I do read other books. Sometimes I read Nora Roberts. I love the bookstores. I have a stack of books to take to the used bookstore. I always find someting to bring home.
Oh, Vanessa, when someone asks me something like this, “What’s your favorite (whatever)”, I almost always initially draw a blank…”Uhhh” 😉
Then I see what others have said, and I think, “Oh, yes – that one and that one and that one!” – One thing, you know it’s a GREAT read when you don’t want it to end and you continue to think about the characters!
Right now I’m reading “A Thousand Country Roads”; the sequel to “The Bridges of Madison County”, because we just recently visited the area and went around to all the bridges. Of course I had to re-read the first book – 😉 Loved it.
What else? I’m wracking my brain – as others have said – The Language of Flowers – Left Neglected – Cold Mountain – Rhett Butler’s People – Beloved – I wish I could think of more right now! OH!! “The Purpose of a Dog” – you MUST read it, if you haven’t!
Nighty-night!
Anne
On “The Purpose of a Dog” – you will love it, but you will cry, and it will make you think, and you will be comforted. <3
Hugs,
Anne
Oh, thank you. I was in a book slump too, but not anymore. I now have a long list (all written on a scrap of envelope) of books to dive into, I can not wait.
I am a book pusher, if you are a reader and you visit my house you leave with a stack of “must reads”. I worry that the person will not follow through and read the books unless they are in hand. LOL
“The widow of the south” by Robert Hicks, E.M. Forster (A room with a View), and Anita Shreve are a few of my favorite books and authors. There are soooo many, too many to remember. Thank you all for the great suggestions. Happy reading.
Wow! Lotsa comments!
I am re-reading Steinbeck’s short stories this summer. I love the endearing ways that he describes rogues and scoundrels. Cannery Row and Sweet Thursday are sweet.
i just read Be Here Now by Ram Dass, and n ow i want to hear everything he has to say. another book i loved was Thrift Score, a WONDERFUL and funny book about thrifting. also anything by wally lamb is really really good. i seriously love him. xxx
(Hmmm….I was sure I hit “post” on this last night.
Well, my sincerest apologies if some version of this appears twice.)
Good evening Vanessa,
Here are a few of my own loves….
-Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
-Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins
– Garden Spells & (especially) The Girl Who Chased The Moon by Sarah Addison Allen
-anything by Charles de Lint (especially Tapping the Dream Tree & Dreams Underfoot
-A Winter’s Tale by Mark Helprin
-Unquenchable Fire by Rachel Pollack
– Daughter of Smoke and Bone & Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor
I love reading nonfiction as well, but for some reason the only one that I could come up with off the top of my head is….
Ghost Rider : Travels On The Healing Road – Neil Peart
This is basically NP’s journal, written during the road trip he took to find his way back to himself after losing first his daughter (to a road accident), and shortly thereafter his wife (to cancer).
Raw and honest and a stunning piece of writing, this one.
It’s interesting how so many of us seem to have similar tastes in books. I now have quite a number of new titles on my “to read” list.
(Thanks, all!)
Looking forward to the tea party!
oops. and there it is again. sorry, all.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0722537743/ref=mw_dp_mdsc?dsc=1&qid=1373368732&sr=8-1
Here’s a link to the gardener by grian! It won’t take you long to read the book but it’s beautiful. Xxx
Lara
http://Www.livedreamsparkle.wordpress.com
I host a Literary Friday link party every week. Check it out!
I read a whole lot, but based on your post, here are my suggestions:
For a great book about history and creativity: David McCullough’s The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris.
Historical fiction: The Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin
Fairytale: Before Ever After by Samantha Sotto
Suspense/mystery: The Watchers by Jon Steele
Magical Realism: Anything by Sarah Addison Allen or Kate Morton
Irish History/ Oral Tradition: Ireland by Fran Delaney (best writer *ever*)
Science Fiction: The Dervish House by Ian Mc Donald
Great Literary Fiction: The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield and The Tenth Gift by Jane Johnson
Please post and let us know what you’re reading!
xo,
Ricki Jill
Anything written by Lisa Jackson ….Wicked games.. Is the first of three. Awesome ..!
Sarah Addison Allen yes yes yes! That’s really all I have to say. You will get sucked in and keep reading her books.
Wonderful list of books…I have read many of them and enjoyed most. Your friends are awesome.
I thought I would add to this list “These Is My Words” “Sarah’s Quilt” and ”
The Star Garden a trilogy by Sarah Agnes Prine. The series is about Sarah and her struggles to make a home in the Arizona Territory.
If you like mystery and crime and action you HAVE to read Jo Nesbo! All of his books are amazing! I recommended him to a lot of people and they are all officially Nesbo addicts!
Btw:your blog is fairy-talistic!!!
Vanessa…..your dream about having a special needs little boy is not to be dismissed! I was told I’d never have children and my friend, JoAnn had a dream about me having a curly blonde haired blue eyed little boy (he is a curly haired blonde 22 year old now). I have brown hair & brown eyes!
I just finished “The Snow Child” by Eowyn Ivey……don’t read the sample excerpt. It goes along with your dream. The library has it. You will cry at the end. I didn’t like Night Circus ~ because I could not get past the first pages. Maybe I’ll try it again.
I could go on forever about books so I’m just going to stop now! Also, Hotel Del……:)
Even though it’s classed as young adult fiction, Unwind by Neal Shusterman shouldn’t be missed – it’s the first in a trilogy. I found myself unable to put it down. And on the fantasy romance side, I’d say the Southern Witch series by Kimberly Frost – the main character is a pastry chef.
Hey sweetness,
I’m in the same boat as you! I crave books I just can’t put down! I do suggest Night Circus, and Garden Spell…. both kept me captivated and that’s hard to do! If you find something really yummy, do let me know! Although, I have taken the liberty to steal some of your amazing followers suggestions!!
xoxo
Thank you!!! xoxo
WOwie 500 books!! AWESOME! I will totally look into
these!!
Church of the old Mermaids???? OH MY HEART!! Must get it… asap!
(LOVE homesteading books)
I should listen to my mom shouldnt I ?? 😉 I love Neil G too –
I have downloaded some of his tales he is narrating…
YAY!!
Thank you sooo much Bonnie ;)) I will give Night Circus another
chance 😉
Kim, I agree, great suggestions abound here, wowie zowie, so
exciting!! I love letters of a woman homesteader – will look into your
other loves too for sure.
Anne, I sooo sobbed when i read Bridges of Madison county ages ago, thank
you so much for the reminder – and the sequel, I didnt even know about
it!! Oh my……
Kimi, you are a kind book sharer!!
A girl after my own heart!! Books, I love them!! I belong to an online book site where you can create a personal shelf of all the books you’ve read, books that you want to read, book that you just love the covers, any book you can imagine!! I have added my personal shelf with my all-time favorites. I will suggest a few here: ‘A Gracious Plenty’ by Sheri Reynolds – about a girl who lives in a cemetery and can chat with the local ghost / ‘Labyrinth’ by Kate Mosse – historical fiction during the Crusades. Can’t wait to see what you pick up and here how you enjoy it!
My favorites: http://www.shelfari.com/bellagrace/shelf#firstBook=0&list=1&sort=dateadded
Oooo,yes, Garden Spells indeed- and yes, Vanessa- you will identify with and LOVE CLaire!!! 😀 I Love that book! 🙂 <3
Terry Goodkind Sword of Truth Series, starts with The Sword of Truth. All of them are amazing.
All burnt up and everything! That is too funny. So, if you still loved him with all his charred charm you will LOVE Stuart, the maimed twisted, tormented man who roams the crumbling halls of the old Scottish castle…A Rose in Winter…go buy it Vanessa! I’m going to search for my copy right now 😉
Hi Vanessa! Karen here, assistant librarian for the Salmon Public Library in Idaho. I have a whole list of books that I think you will love. I think we may have similar tastes! I believe we both appreciate a little magic in our reading. Okay…for audio books, listen to One Hundred Secret Senses by Amy Tan. She actually reads the book herself and her voice is Asian, and so tinkly and magical. A fabulous story. Also, listen to Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver. It will put you into wet, humid summer settings in the Appalachians, complete with bird calls and insect noises. Of course, anything by Kingsolver is great, as well as Isabel Allende. Alice Hoffman can be fun. I liked Illumination Night. You probably already read the Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd. A book that someone just donated to us is Of Bees and Mist by Erick Setiawan, that is definitely one I want to read soon. I had a wonderful summer once, savoring the Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley. You may already have read Chocolat, by JoAnn Harris, or saw the movie.. I just realized she wrote a few more with the main character that I’ll have to try. One of our local book groups recently read Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey. Its an adult fairytale, more dark. My favorite of all time is a little book called the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho! Some mystery writers that are really good are Lee Child (President Clinton’s favorite reads,) Tana French of In the Woods, and I have promised to try Jo Nesbo, The Snowman, who is similar to Steig Larsson of the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series, which was great. Being an artist myself, I loved Girl With the Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier and right now am reading my first book by Christopher Moore, a very strange and eccentric book about art in the 1800’s, It is kinky and very clever funny. Both of these last books are historical fiction in a way. One of my very favorite books was The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova, a vampire book that is amazing! Read it before Halloween. Fabulous history here too. Loved it!!!! For non-fiction,try Loving Frank, by Frank Lloyd Wright, My Beloved World by Sonia Sotomayor and definitely The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. Fabulous! Everybody loved it. I hope this gives you a few things to think about. Let me know if you want more!!
Here is a list of all of my favorites:
Harry Potter, Reckless, Entwined (a retelling of the 12 dancing princesses), Strands of Bronze and Gold (a retelling of the Bluebeard fairy tale), Graceling series, Hunger Games, The Luxe series, Inkheart series, Prisoners in the Palace, The Wild Queen (and others by that author), The Mysterious Benedict Soceity…..just to name a few 🙂
If you haven’t read Harry Potter, you are a decade behind, my friend. And you have also missed out on LIFE if you have not yet indulged. Harry Potter molded our world, and to not be a part of that….*shudders*
Yep! I totally know. ^-^
There’s some things that just click for me & make me all giddy & happy & sparkly feeling, and others where I’m just like, “eh, meh…” This drives my sweety nuts, especially when she reads a book or watches a TV series that she’s just over the moon about, but I just can’t get into it… lolz… I am especially bad about TV series… I can never seem to make myself sit down & watch them… lolz…
I have fabulous day dreams of all of us sitting around on blankets in the sunshine, surrounded by mountains of books, tea and goodies… =D
XOXO
Rosamunde Pilcher books.I love reading Winter Solstice in the Fall or Winter.Her other books are good for Summer. I have always loved Jean Auels books of Pre-history.There are others but those are some of My all time faves.Oh how about Victoria Holt for Mysteries?
Hi I love the books by Sarah Addison Allen, Gerladine Brooks, Deborah Harkness, Kate Mosse and Katherine Howe ; )
Good luck with the search !!
Karen!! Oh my word! What a list!
I tell you – the book The Secret Life of Bees lives in my soul!!
Love your list!! thank you thank you!!
Jessica, I can see how you feel that way being a teen. Because movies and books that are part of our formative years, affect us profoundly 🙂
I had different tales in my youthful era, Neverending Story, Labyrinth, Legend etc etc
etc. I just wasn’t in the Harry Potter space when it came
out and never got into it, but I know folks adored it, and that makes me
happy. I was in another realm in life then, that was massively crazy wonderful and
couldn’t fit Potter in. But if it’s such a great tale, then it’s never too
late to read it I say, right? I am so glad it affected your life so
profoundly, that is what good stories do for us. YAY for tales and
journeys of the mind!
Annalee, I totally get you 😉
Everyone has given wonderful suggestions so I am going to give you something a bit different. Once you find an audiobook read by someone whose voice you adore (and there are several) do a search and find others read by the same person.
Sometimes the most boring book becomes magical when read in a lyrical melodious accent.
I usually read nonfiction so this summer
(and with the help of several complete series donated to my local thrift- How could I NOT buy a complete series for less than the cost of one book?)
I am dedicating this summer to reading cozy mysteries. Fast fun reads (even if someone has to die) revolving around recipes or knitting or home repair. (and more) The titles alone make it fun to pick these books up.
And one other author who may have been mentioned above but I did not see as I skimmed the comments, Juliet Blackwell. http://julietblackwell.net/
Great tips for sure, You are so right!!! 😉 Thank
you!!
Alia, I trust your choices for sure!, thankeee
😉
Beth, thanks for the audio tip!! Ordering today
😉
On the Healing Road sounds intense!!! Love your
suggestions
Renee, I am with you, I LOVE thrillers mystery,,,
ooooooooooo!!
No Meg, you know what happened? For some reason your first comment
got sent to Typepads Netherworld, and I saved it :)) So so sorry you had
to write it twice, and sooo thankful for your suggestions, your
rock!!
Here are few of my favorite, Lady V. They all have a mystical quality to them.
Seven Tears from The Sea-Teri Farley
The Wood Wife- Terri Windling
The Hollow Trilogy by Jessica Verday
Witch mystery series by Juliet Blackwell. Books in order: Second hand Spirits,
A Cast off Coven, Hexes and Hemlines, In a Witch’s Wardrobe
Pies and Prejudice: A charmed pie shoppe mystery by Ellery Adams.
The Diviners by Libba Bray.
Weetzie Bat and anything else by Francesca Lia Block
Ooooooooooooo, totally into it!!
Ricki, that sounds like sooo much fun!!!
Lisa-vet!!! Helooooo there !! ;))
Moa, those sounds wonderful, and the women making a home in the Arizona
Territory, I want to read that for sure xoxo
Ooooo, Nesbo addicts, this sounds great, they must be
gooood!!
Jill, we are kindred!! I will try the Night Circus again too.
Oh, and a tale that will make me cry in the end? I even let out a huge
sigh typing that. I am on it 😉
Southern Witch, pastry chef?? ooo aaaa! Unwind sounds fab, especially
since you couldnt put it down, thanks for the tip!!
😉
Oh oh, I think I have a shelfari account somewhere
;))))
Terry Goodkind it is!!! Looking into this on the double
😉
Terry Goodkind it is!!! Looking into this on the double
😉
Denise, I am googling your titles right now. Mysteries…
yumm…
Shell, your titles sound beyond words scrumptious!!!! Thank you so
much for recommending them, I am sooo looking forward to
them!!
4 words GONE WITH THE WIND!
Vanessa, you must be overwhelmed with recommendations by now.
I’m also really hooked on audiobooks these days – I love that you can read but still be doing something with your hands! Not to mention they’re great to be outside on summer nights. I listened to a fabulous audiobook last year that I think you’d like. It’s called The Last Summer by Judith Kinghorn. It’s set in England during the First world war.
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen is one of my favorites that I think you would enjoy.. All of her books, I would say, are magical realism. Angela Carter is great for some adult fairy tale-esque tales. My favorite author of all time however would be Francesca Lia Block. She’s a young adult writer but her stuff is sorta heavy. It’s messy and beautiful and I think you would like it.
I’d recommend starting with some of these Block titles…
Echo
Ruby
Wasteland
Primavera
Rose and the Beast
Oooooooooooooo!!!
Hey Sweetie Miss V… New Neil Gaiman novel called “The Ocean at the end of the Lane” Oooo just getting started on it and I LOVE it… Check it out!! Muah!
I so agree about the audiobooks. I am listening to one right now
whilst working on MTP things like a mad woman at the last minute
😉
OMG you have had a huge response here. Right now I am enjoying Paris by Edward Rutherford, he write historic fiction. I have recently enjoyed The Distant Hours by Kate Morton, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford, The Time in Between by Maria Duenas, books by Ciji Ware, mystery’s by Cara Black. I have a feeling you have lots of recommendations here.
Thank you thank you, so many kindred souls love Kate Morton, I will delve
in there too. Thank you for the suggestions Marilyn! I am compiling
a list and looking into every single recommendation 😉 You are
lovely!!
I was involved in costuming for a long time and everyone loved Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell audio, so many of us sewed to it. You might like what one of my online costume fiends did with a character from the story:
http://www.festiveattyre.com/2013/05/a-fairy-from-lost-hope.html
I’m reading that at the minute. It’s so good and really makes you take a step back and look at your life. 🙂
Wow! I’m totally behind on this and can’t believe how many suggestions you’ve had (and also how many of them I’ve read, I think we all must have similar tastes in literature!).
I wanted to suggest a series by Paul Magrs, he’s one of my favourites, although he isn’t hugely well known. Here’s the synopisis for the first book in the series Never The Bride:
“Brenda has had a long and eventful life, and she has come to Whitby to run a B&B and enjoy some peace and quiet. She and her best friend Effie like nothing better than going out for tea and keeping their eyes open for mysterious goings on in town.
And what with satanic beauty salons, roving psychic investigators and the frankly terrifying owner of the Christmas Hotel there’s plenty to watch. But the oddest thing in Whitby may well be Brenda herself. With her terrible scars, her strange lack of a surname and the fact that she takes two different shoe sizes, Brenda should know that people as, well, unique as she is just aren’t destined for a quiet life.”
The whole series is a great mix of humour, mystery and the supernatural. Plus they are set in Whitby which is a wonderful seaside town in England (and where Bram Stoker got some of his inspiration from for Dracula).
I have to scour the comments and see if anyone has mentioned Shannon Hale. I picked up a book (still on my TBR pile) called Goose Girl about a girl with the ability to speak with animals. All the reviews are wonderful and they all say to read the whole series plus more of her books.
I’m hurrying here, but has anyone suggested The Night Circus, by Erin Morgenstern?
You’ll have a lovely time!
Also The Prestige, an older book by Christopher Priest.
Someone may have already mentioned The Wolf Gift, but I will gladly say it again. I am such a diehard Anne Rice fan so of course ANYTHING by her is a must read. 🙂
I have also gotten turned onto Juliet Blackwell’s withcraft mystery series. I have enjoyed them for being gripping, but lighthearted with just the right amount of comedic relief.
Graham Joyce is who I have on deck, Some Kind of Fairy Tale and The Tooth Fairy.
New here but wanted to recommend “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak. My DD read it but I listened to it on audio book and LOVED it and the gentleman who reads it is outstanding. I also loved The Host by Stephenie Meyer. Didn’t like the Twilight series as much as her adult novel. It is very very good.
Tracey, sounds fab! And I love anything good on audiobook too!!
I highly recommend anything by Sarah Addison Allen, but start with her first book Garden Spells. I just know you’ll love it. It is completely right up your alley.
Oh and ditto the rec of Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. You should also check out her blog/website; she writes a ten sentence short story based on an original photograph – tagged Flax-Golden Tales.
We might be reading soul mates 🙂 I am 33 years old and just re-read all the Little House on the Prairie books. Laura and Almanzo’s home is about a four hour drive away and I am going to make that trip someday soon!
I enjoyed reading all the comments on here! I am definitely going to check out Sarah Addison Allen now!
As for books, two fiction books that I recommend with all my heart are Geek Love and The Thirteenth Tale.
Right now I’m reading Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children and so far it’s wonderful! I think you would love it! It mixes a curious tale with strange old photography. You MUST read this one :). It has been a long time since I read “Double Identity” but I remeber really getting into that book. Oh and another great book is “The Seer of Shadows” which is a ghost story. “Unwind” is a really good book but also really disturbing and it’s definitely not the book for everyone. If you do read an Agatha Christie book I suggest “And Then There Were None”.
Lauren, I LOVE Miss Peregrine, I have a beautiful copy my mom gave me – I
must re-read it, thank you for the reminder!! I have my moms copy of And
then there were None, and have not read it, you have inspired me to do so
😉
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/12/2013 7:46:00 A.M. US Mountain Standard Time,
However, did I miss this post! Did you know I worked in a bookstore for 12 years? I loved it so! Sadly, we went out of business two years ago, and it nearly broke my heart in two. I have oodles of oodles of books on my shelves. Some not even read yet! Some of my favorites (with links):
Faery Tale – Signe Pike http://www.amazon.com/Faery-Tale-Womans-Search-Enchantment/dp/B004KAB3P2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373644070&sr=8-1&keywords=faery+tale+pike
Stardust – Neil Gaiman http://www.amazon.com/Stardust-Neil-Gaiman/dp/0061689246/ref=sr_1_1_title_0_main?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373644143&sr=1-1&keywords=stardust+neil+gaiman
Alice Hoffman – The Ice Queen
http://www.amazon.com/Ice-Queen-Novel-Alice-Hoffman/dp/B000HEYVP4/ref=sr_1_1_title_0_main?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1373644169&sr=1-1&keywords=alice+hoffman+queen
Emily Bronte – Wuthering Heights
http://www.amazon.com/Wuthering-Heights-Dover-Thrift-Editions/dp/0486292568/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1373644230&sr=8-1
I also enjoy many of whom were already mentioned…but these are some of my favorites. 🙂 Happy reading! xoxox
Vanessa estaré realizando el post el 13, temprano, hora Argentina, no me saques el link, que aun no he tenido tiempo por el trabajo! count me in! yea!
If you like non-fiction, crime and animals you might enjoy “Wildflower” by Mark Seal. The setting is exotic and there is a lot about the life and behavior of animals in Africa and other places. The mysterious murder of title figure is not resolved, but the book is an addictive read. It’s on the short side, but parts stay with you long after.
Some of my favorite books of all time…..Michaelsson’s Ghosts- John Gardner; The Magus- John Fowles; Kafka on the Shore- Haruki Murakami; The Night Circus- I can’t think of the author’s name;
People tell me I like rather unusual books- they tend to be long, have a bit of a mystery about them.
Enjoy,
marilyn
You will love The Sweetness at the bottom of the pie by Alan Bradley. It´s just one of those books that take you by surprise. You can´t stop reading it, and once you end it, you miss it.
Another gem is The Guernsey literary and potato peel pie society by Mary Ann Schaffer.
(I´m thinking now I seem to have a thing for articulate young british ladies, of which there is a lot in these books.)
Non-fiction- The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls and Stolen Lives by Malika Oufkir. Both are books that I read a few years ago, but they will remain in my mind forever.
Terry, I read the Glass Castle and since you read it and loved it, I will
read your second recommendation for sure!! THANK YOU 🙂
Blog: http://www.aFancifulTwist.com
Website: http://www.VanessaValencia.com
In a message dated 7/16/2013 4:09:17 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time,