GrogHeads Forum

IRL (In Real Life) => Books & Reading => Topic started by: Martok on March 05, 2012, 01:13:59 PM

Title: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 05, 2012, 01:13:59 PM
Based on recommendations made over at the old site, I've been into the Horatio Hornblower books in a big way the last several weeks.  I'm currently halfway through Flying Colours, and probably about halfway through the series overall -- I started reading them in chronological order. 

(Speaking of which, I strongly recommend *against* doing that.  Read them in the order in which they were written instead, as otherwise the experience isn't quite as good.) 



At the same time, I've also been reading (although less intensely) What If? 2, a collection of essays examining major historical turning points, and what might have occurred had things gone another way.  Pretty interesting stuff, even if I do find a lot of the alternative scenarios to be very far-fetched. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 05, 2012, 01:27:50 PM
At Bison's recommendation I'm reading Steven Saylor's series of a Roman detective, starting with Roman Blood. Put it down to historical fiction, it's good stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 05, 2012, 01:58:28 PM
I am reading China Marches West: The Qing Conquest of Central Eurasia. It focuses on the interaction of the Mongols, Russians and Qing Chinese from the16th century til the 18th century. It is rather academic but something about it is very addictive too, I can't get enough of it. Probably because I haven't read a lot of Chinese history. Great book.

Link: http://www.amazon.com/China-Marches-West-Conquest-Central/dp/0674057430/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1330973795&sr=1-3
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 05, 2012, 02:13:56 PM
Just finished Thunder Run, now reading Phoenix Squadron.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on March 05, 2012, 03:24:27 PM
So what did ya think of Thunder Run ?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 05, 2012, 03:37:12 PM
Both harrowing and inspiring really. I was impressed by the 'can-do' spirit and the confidence that those guys had in both themselves, each other, and thier equipment.

It also brought home the sheer horror of war like few books have ever done, and I've read a good many over the years.
Not a book that I will forget for a long time. Also, seeing some of the actual footage of it on youtube made a very vivid impression.

I did chuckle at the bit where they call in an airstrike, and it happened to be a Tornado. They had trouble understanding the pilot because he spoke 'British English'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 06, 2012, 12:13:23 AM
About 60 pages in to the newest Ciaphas Cain book, The Emperor's Finest, by Sandy Mitchell.

And I'm probably going to bust in to The Fall bu Guillermo Del Toro/Chuck Hogan after that. It's the second book in a series about a vampire plague...and the first book was stunningly good. Not really a vampire fan, but I took a shot because it was cheap. It was a pleasant surprise and now I'm hoping that the sequel holds up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on March 06, 2012, 05:09:45 AM
I do a lot of listening to books, due to my commute. So I'm half way through both of these

Castles of Steel by Robert K. Massie (to cajole my enthusiasm for Steam and Iron)

Mass Effect: Retribution by Drew Karpyshyn. (to whip up my enthusiasm for Mass Effect 3)


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 06, 2012, 08:59:57 AM

Dead Centre, the latest book in the Nick Stone series by former SAS member Abdy McNab.


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on March 06, 2012, 09:02:59 AM
QuoteI did chuckle at the bit where they call in an airstrike, and it happened to be a Tornado. They had trouble understanding the pilot because he spoke 'British English'

Yeah - I could never get onto that British English.  ;D  I forgot about that until you mentioned it. There were some humerous little events...........
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 06, 2012, 11:57:25 AM
I can't believe they have Castles of Steel as an audio book!

And Arctic Blast you and I have very similar taste in fiction. Checking out The Fall...thanks for posting that. And damn you as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 06, 2012, 07:55:26 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 06, 2012, 11:57:25 AM
And Arctic Blast you and I have very similar taste in fiction. Checking out The Fall...thanks for posting that. And damn you as well.

LOL. you've read the first book in the series, right? If not, you need to be tracking down The Strain first.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on March 07, 2012, 12:59:00 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 06, 2012, 11:57:25 AM
I can't believe they have Castles of Steel as an audio book!

From Barnes and Noble.
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/castles-of-steel-robert-k-massie/1102808863?ean=9781415912614&itm=1&usri=castles+of+steel+audiobook

It comes on 33 CD's in unabridged disc form, so the download is 33 mp3 files.

Gabeeg helpfully aided me in getting hold of it, because it is country restricted to US residents only.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 07, 2012, 10:30:37 AM
33 CDs!!! Crazytalk. Arctic, in my search on Amazon yesterday I did see that the Fall is part of a series, yes. I can't buy it until I make some headway through my 25 book stack of fiction first. Been reading a lot more fiction than usual lately.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on March 07, 2012, 11:32:57 AM
QuoteBeen reading a lot more fiction than usual lately.

You're not telling us a story are ya !  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 07, 2012, 12:09:02 PM
Jesus you sound like my Grandpa. Are you my Grandpa?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jack Nastyface on March 07, 2012, 02:40:38 PM
Just finished reading "A Dawn Like Thunder" - the true story of Torpedo 8.  Details the experience of the T8 pilots and crew who flew devastators and avengers versus the Japanese at Midway and later from Guadalcanal.  Excellent read...and thinking of doing a mini-review for this site.

Prior to this, also read Thunder Run.  A very compelling read albeit makes one wonder about the carnage wrought upon the Iraqi's, basically at their own behest.

Currently reading "Seize the Fire" which is so far providing a highly Pro-Nelsonian view of the Battle of Trafalgar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on March 07, 2012, 03:10:40 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on March 05, 2012, 01:27:50 PM
At Bison's recommendation I'm reading Steven Saylor's series of a Roman detective, starting with Roman Blood. Put it down to historical fiction, it's good stuff.

Glad to see you are enjoying the series too.  They are a great light, quick read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 07, 2012, 03:30:43 PM
Quote from: Bison on March 07, 2012, 03:10:40 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on March 05, 2012, 01:27:50 PM
At Bison's recommendation I'm reading Steven Saylor's series of a Roman detective, starting with Roman Blood. Put it down to historical fiction, it's good stuff.

Glad to see you are enjoying the series too.  They are a great light, quick read.

Yeah, they're a good way to unwind in the evening.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Centurion40 on March 07, 2012, 03:46:18 PM
I am reading this thread.  Ok, I can't lie, I've skimmed it.  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 07, 2012, 04:32:54 PM
Quote from: Centurion40 on March 07, 2012, 03:46:18 PM
I am reading this thread.  Ok, I can't lie, I've skimmed it.  ;)

Next thing we know you'll be bragging about your French ties.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on March 07, 2012, 05:41:31 PM
Yes Gus ,

It's true  I'm your Dark Grandpa

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbadassoftheweek.com%2Fvader2.jpg&hash=ac0457437f43ae60d145a69abcd964d951c7d6f6)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Centurion40 on March 07, 2012, 05:43:31 PM
Darth Pepsico.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bayonet_Chris on March 08, 2012, 05:15:58 PM
I'm in the middle of a couple of things and I have some books in a queue (eBook) for my upcoming trip to Hong Kong and China.

When Christ and His Saints Slept (Sharon Kay Penman)
Conan of Cimmeria (Robert E. Howard)
The Hunger Games Trilogy (Suzanne Collins)
Leopard Moon (a friend of mine, Jeanette Battista, wrote this)

I'm not sure if I have anything lined up after that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 09, 2012, 06:47:56 AM
Am taking a small break from the Hornblower books to read Scott Turow's Presumed Innocent.  I only read it once before about 15 years ago, so it'll be interesting to see how much I enjoy it after all this time. 




Quote from: Bayonet_Chris on March 08, 2012, 05:15:58 PM
When Christ and His Saints Slept (Sharon Kay Penman)
The Hunger Games Trilogy (Suzanne Collins)
I'd be curious to hear your take on these two. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 09, 2012, 09:19:28 AM
Hunger Games is the new Harry Potter.

My kids read it. Then my wife read it. Then my wife started loaning our copies out to friends for them to read - much to the aggravation of our kids as they are trying to re-read the books (multiple times to get all the facts in their heads straight) before the movie comes out in two weeks.

I have heard nothing but praise for Hunger Games. I'm avoiding them right now principally because I'm a grumpy grog with too little time to assemble and paint minis and I already have plenty of guilty pleasures.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on March 09, 2012, 10:05:00 AM
My wife read them, and then made me read them.  They are quick easy reads as they are targeted to the teen demographic.  The first and second books were alright but there third I did not care for.

The concept and setting of the book, a post-apocalyptic former America was very interesting and had potential.  I even liked the idea of the 'Hunger Games' themselves.  However, the tween drama was a bit ridiculous especially in the second and third book.  There is some criticism of the books being a rip off of the novel 'Battle Royal' but the author claims to never have heard of it before writing the Hunger Games.

In the end if you read them or see the movie you probably can count that as family time and being a good Dad. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 09, 2012, 10:30:20 AM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on March 09, 2012, 10:05:00 AM
In the end if you read them or see the movie you probably can count that as family time and being a good Dad. :)

One of the reasons I am able to help run this place (humble as it is) is because I work from home and get plenty of Dad time. As much as they've chatted up the series, I'm sure I'll see the movie - either in theaters or when we inevitably buy it on DVD.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bayonet_Chris on March 09, 2012, 04:13:12 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 09, 2012, 06:47:56 AM
Am taking a small break from the Hornblower books to read Scott Turow's Presumed Innocent.  I only read it once before about 15 years ago, so it'll be interesting to see how much I enjoy it after all this time. 

Quote from: Bayonet_Chris on March 08, 2012, 05:15:58 PM
When Christ and His Saints Slept (Sharon Kay Penman)
The Hunger Games Trilogy (Suzanne Collins)
I'd be curious to hear your take on these two.

I really enjoy Penman's stuff in general.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on March 09, 2012, 04:38:23 PM
Stig Larsson, the trilogy that is the base of The gril with the dragon tattoo. oh my good i love this mara rooney lesbian look.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 10, 2012, 02:56:16 PM
The Wife also passed me along The Hunger Games trilogy...I was going to read them while playing Fallout: New Vegas. Not so much, according to you guys? Are they tweenie, girlie reads?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on March 10, 2012, 03:56:54 PM
I'm kind of an A.D.D. reader.  I'm currently in the middle of:


Those are the ones I'm reading on regularly, I just sortof swap off day by day to keep them fresh.  I have an even bigger list of 'to read' book that I've collected over the past couple months.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on March 10, 2012, 06:07:00 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 10, 2012, 02:56:16 PM
The Wife also passed me along The Hunger Games trilogy...I was going to read them while playing Fallout: New Vegas. Not so much, according to you guys? Are they tweenie, girlie reads?

I wouldn't call them girlie reads.  There is a bit of the tweenie drama in the first and second and more so in the third book.  However, the drama is only in spots and it moves on fast enough that you don't dwell on it to long.  If you like post apocalyptic settings its an interesting read.  Plus it is a fairly quick read so as long as you have an average reading ability it won't waste alot of your time if you don't end up liking it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on March 10, 2012, 07:38:29 PM
I'm wrapping up book two of Joe Abercrombie's superb "The First Law" trilogy. Very, very well done!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 10, 2012, 10:18:35 PM
Thanks SCDJ...I mean, CommandTent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:11:18 PM
Quote from: republic on March 10, 2012, 03:56:54 PM
I'm kind of an A.D.D. reader.  I'm currently in the middle of:


  • Eye of the World - Robert Jordan (Friend has begged me to read this series for awhile)

Fair warning:  Some folks find the pacing of Eye of the World to be rather...glacial.  I personally didn't have that problem, but I know a number of folks (including those who are fans of the series) have said they found the first book to be among the slowest. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on March 11, 2012, 02:35:53 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:11:18 PM
Quote from: republic on March 10, 2012, 03:56:54 PM
I'm kind of an A.D.D. reader.  I'm currently in the middle of:


  • Eye of the World - Robert Jordan (Friend has begged me to read this series for awhile)

Fair warning:  Some folks find the pacing of Eye of the World to be rather...glacial.  I personally didn't have that problem, but I know a number of folks (including those who are fans of the series) have said they found the first book to be among the slowest.

I read this book and came away thinking along the same lines and have not read another book in the series since.  Should I give the next book a try?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:45:29 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on March 11, 2012, 02:35:53 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:11:18 PM
Quote from: republic on March 10, 2012, 03:56:54 PM
I'm kind of an A.D.D. reader.  I'm currently in the middle of:


  • Eye of the World - Robert Jordan (Friend has begged me to read this series for awhile)

Fair warning:  Some folks find the pacing of Eye of the World to be rather...glacial.  I personally didn't have that problem, but I know a number of folks (including those who are fans of the series) have said they found the first book to be among the slowest.

I read this book and came away thinking along the same lines and have not read another book in the series since.  Should I give the next book a try?
I would, yes.  EotW (sadly) isn't a very good introduction to the series. 

Now if The Great Hunt (the second book) doesn't grab you, *then* I would go ahead and walk away. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on March 11, 2012, 03:17:38 PM
Are any of the Warhammer books available in e-book format ?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2012, 03:44:22 PM
^A lot are, check out Black Library. Speaking of which, once I am done with my current Chinese history book (Qing) I am going to crack open the new WH title Luther Huss...takes place not in WH40K but in the ancient WH universe. It's a tale about a witch hunter and I'm almost certain that all new releases from Black Library are also released as digital books. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on March 11, 2012, 04:12:43 PM
Thanks for sharing Gus - "Knowledge is power, guard it well."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on March 11, 2012, 04:14:41 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:45:29 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on March 11, 2012, 02:35:53 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:11:18 PM
Quote from: republic on March 10, 2012, 03:56:54 PM
I'm kind of an A.D.D. reader.  I'm currently in the middle of:


  • Eye of the World - Robert Jordan (Friend has begged me to read this series for awhile)

Fair warning:  Some folks find the pacing of Eye of the World to be rather...glacial.  I personally didn't have that problem, but I know a number of folks (including those who are fans of the series) have said they found the first book to be among the slowest.

I read this book and came away thinking along the same lines and have not read another book in the series since.  Should I give the next book a try?
I would, yes.  EotW (sadly) isn't a very good introduction to the series. 

Now if The Great Hunt (the second book) doesn't grab you, *then* I would go ahead and walk away.

Thanks!  I'll see if my local library has them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 11, 2012, 04:14:52 PM
For a while Black Library even offered a few ebooks for free. I'm not sure why or for how long (or if still available) but check their site.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on March 11, 2012, 04:36:51 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:11:18 PM
Fair warning:  Some folks find the pacing of Eye of the World to be rather...glacial.  I personally didn't have that problem, but I know a number of folks (including those who are fans of the series) have said they found the first book to be among the slowest.

Its not too bad.  Its slower than I would like, but nowhere near as bad as Peter F Hamilton's work.  I just barely made it through Pandora's Star and have yet to finish its sequel Judas Unchained.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 13, 2012, 10:18:37 AM
Migs: I also got notification that a new title called 'Phalanx' has been shipped...it's a WH40K April 2012 release. Black Library has some fantastic stuff. I could spend 1000s there and I've only been into WH40K for a few months!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on March 13, 2012, 11:03:35 AM
Good to know Gus ! I may need to knock over a liquor store this weekend - if you wanta come up I'll cut ya in !
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 13, 2012, 11:30:11 AM
Sounds like my dog could be useful to you...we'll be up Thursday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on March 13, 2012, 07:51:35 PM
Saw the new version of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy recently.
That got me to re reading Anthony Price's series of spy novels.
I always liked his work more than LeCarre's.  His people are more understandable to me, and his central character is nowhere so opaque and calculating as George Smiley.
The other thing I like about the series is all of the historical tidbits, Price includes.  The main character is both a spycatcher as well as a history dean.  So, many of the stories get odd boosts from historical factors.  The main Soviet nemesis is aware of the weakness of David Audley for historical coincidences.
If you like spy fiction, I really like Price and would recommend his series to wargamers. 
His first two books were a little weak, as his writing improved the books got better.  If you are interested, I'd recommend October Men or War Game as good ones to begin with.
For anyone reading the Hornblower series, Price's book, Eyes of the Fleet, is a historical study of frigates, and their captains, during the Napoleonic Wars.  Excellent read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 13, 2012, 09:10:49 PM
I just bought Taiko used from Amazon. It's a 1000 page English translation about the Japanese Age of the Country at War...the era that the Shogun games cover.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on March 14, 2012, 05:24:00 AM
Now reading (listening to) A Clash of Kings, in readiness for A Game of Thrones Season 2 coming real soon now. Put me in a mind to play Crusader Kings II over the Game of Thrones RTS game though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 14, 2012, 09:26:41 AM
^April 1st the new Game of Thrones season begins!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bayonet_Chris on March 14, 2012, 12:23:38 PM
^ Woot! So excited!

I also just downloaded "The Lies of Locke Lamora" for the trans-Pacific flight. I should have plenty to read.

Right now, my list is:
* When Christ and his Saints Slept
* Leopard Moon (my friend's book)
* The Hunger Games trilogy
* The Lies of Locke Lamora

Too bad Cold Days (next Dresden book) isn't out yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jack Nastyface on March 19, 2012, 10:24:06 PM
Any one read any of the Matthew Hervey books?  Any recommendations or detractions?

http://www.booksattransworld.co.uk/allanmallinson/website/books.shtml
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 19, 2012, 11:07:15 PM
Well, about to read The Hunger Games. Will let you know how it is.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 20, 2012, 08:03:13 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on March 19, 2012, 11:07:15 PM
Well, about to read The Hunger Games. Will let you know how it is.

The wife and kids rave about it. I'm holding off mostly because it's their thing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on March 20, 2012, 08:33:07 AM
I'm presently half way through Titan, the second book of Stephen Baxter's NASA Trilogy.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NASA_Trilogy

It's a good series so far. Hard science SciFi. Really neat concepts on alternate timelines of NASA based on different political environments and incidents.
Really gives NASA the gears for being a political tool rather than a scientific body.
Makes me sad about what human space travel could/should have been....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 20, 2012, 09:56:07 AM
Halfway through Luthor Huss, a Warhammer title (my first). Luthor is a witch hunter in a very dark, German-inspired world. Bloody, supernatural action, good to read while playing something like Skyrim. It will probably take me less than a week to finish it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 20, 2012, 10:59:39 AM
I have come to enjoy the WH fantasy titles more than the 40K ones. Space Marines are usually so over-the-top that, while fun, it's difficult to relate to.

The fantasy writing is grounded. Though fantasy, the weakness of characters seem more real.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 20, 2012, 12:50:54 PM
^Got any other recommendations? I am really enjoying Luthor Huss. Would love to get more. Anything involving witchcraft, demons, ghosts and goblins of course is welcomed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 20, 2012, 01:18:57 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 20, 2012, 12:50:54 PM
^Got any other recommendations? I am really enjoying Luthor Huss. Would love to get more. Anything involving witchcraft, demons, ghosts and goblins of course is welcomed.

Sure, if you're into vampires, the Ulrika series is good. Blood Born is perhaps a little better than Bloodforged, but both are good.

I wouldn't recommend the Vampire Wars - it's more history than entertainment (particularly if you play Vampire Counts as a faction) - but just as you start to like them the author reminds you that they really are evil. Interesting read, but not entertaining in a traditional sense of the good guy winning at the end.

Brunner is very good. You will want to read that.

Warrior Priest was also really good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 20, 2012, 01:24:17 PM
^Awesome thank you. I do love me some vampires. Will be reading Abe Lincoln: Vampire Hunter soon on Steelie's recommendation.

I do agree with what you posted above about the Warhammer world. It is very well written stuff, like WH40K, but has that little something extra to make it almost believable. Not sure what it is.

As a related aside...also playing as a vampire in Skyrim but the benefits do not outweigh the whole world hating you so I am converting back. Going to try out the werewolf after that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 21, 2012, 01:24:11 PM
You love vampires?  Even sparkly ones? i knew it!

I'm reading Ghouls of the Miskatonic.  Just started it so no impressions yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 21, 2012, 03:30:29 PM
Twilight is not a vampire story. It's a girly love thing with vampires in it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 21, 2012, 03:46:34 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 21, 2012, 03:30:29 PM
Twilight is not a vampire story. It's a girly love thing with vampires in it.

The "vampires" are all sparkly. Most DMs would call them "fairies."

Not that there's anything wrong with that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 21, 2012, 03:51:20 PM
^Once again my ignorance of things Twilight is blissful.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on March 21, 2012, 06:15:03 PM
as the enlightened persona that i am i have to facepalm you lot. you read the literary equivalent of a double cheeseburger with mayonnaise. i hate to ruin your day as i am feeling some strange sentiments towards most guys here, i would call it affection. but some of you guys are rather old so it may be an idea to skip the space marine vampires of death thrash and start reading some literature.

good luck
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on March 21, 2012, 06:18:04 PM
Quote from: Keunert on March 21, 2012, 06:15:03 PM
as the enlightened persona that i am i have to facepalm you lot. you read the literary equivalent of a double cheeseburger with mayonnaise. i hate to ruin your day as i am feeling some strange sentiments towards most guys here, i would call it affection. but some of you guys are rather old so it may be an idea to skip the space marine vampires of death thrash and start reading some literature.

good luck

You would sound a lot more sincere if your other four browser tabs weren't open to various pr0n sites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 21, 2012, 06:19:14 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv320%2Fbogaty%2Fsparkley.jpg&hash=199769a282bf3ff6cc5a033de5e3e61100be02f6)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on March 21, 2012, 06:31:58 PM
you besterly start with Theodor Fontane's masterpiece 'Effi Briest' 1894.
the main character is a girl and her love!

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Effi_Briest
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 21, 2012, 06:37:48 PM
Are they sparkley?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on March 21, 2012, 06:42:20 PM
Quote from: Keunert on March 21, 2012, 06:31:58 PM
you besterly start with Theodor Fontane's masterpiece 'Effi Briest' 1894.
the main character is a girl and her love!

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Effi_Briest

Not enough lasers.......
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bayonet_Chris on March 30, 2012, 01:47:26 AM
So, I got a lot of reading done on my vacation so far.

When Christ and his Saints slept was very good, especially the latter half that deals with the rise of Henry II and Eleanore of Aquitaine. This is a long book though, so be warned.

The Hunger Games trilogy was good, but not great. I thought the main character (Katniss) was a bit dim, but the overall distopian setting was cool. Actually caught the movie the other night, which I enjoyed. It's definitely good enough to check out, as it's a very quick read. Any YA books will be.

Leopard Moon was my friend's book, and she's very talented. It's not my usual genre (modern paranormal) but it was well executed. Don't know if it would match your tastes, but I liked it.

The Lies of Locke Lamora was outstanding. The narrative jumps back and forth a bit, but the dialog is tight and it is at times laugh-out-loud funny. It's fantasy, but a bit more sophisticated. The story centers around a tight cadre of thieves in a large city. Good stuff. I'm already reading his second book of the series, "Red Seas Under Red Skies".

I might read Mistborn as well between now and the flight home. I expect to be done with the second Locke Lamora book by Saturday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 30, 2012, 06:23:06 AM
Quote from: Bayonet_Chris on March 30, 2012, 01:47:26 AM

I might read Mistborn as well between now and the flight home.
You referring to the first book in the Mistborn trilogy by Sanderson? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 03, 2012, 01:59:36 PM
I just bought this edition of War of the Worlds: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688131379/ref=ox_ya_os_product (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688131379/ref=ox_ya_os_product)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 03, 2012, 04:27:03 PM
Paycheck in, so a quick visit to amazon.....

Just ordered the following goodies,

'Surface Detail' by Iain M Banks

"Colossal Cracks: Montgomery's 21st Army Group in Northwest Europe, 1944-45 (Stackpole Military History)"

and Shogun 2. (I'll add FotS later).

All for just over 16 quid including postage - now I call that a bargain.

Me happy :-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 04, 2012, 10:30:40 AM
I got an email from Amazon today (after yesterday's purchase) that the physical copy of Diablo III is now available for pre-order. So I did so. And threw in the Diablo III companion book and one other ghost story (Apartment 16) I've been wanting to read forever. So this weeks total at Amazon: 125.00. Ouch.

And to think I was just reminiscing 'hey I haven't bought anything at Amazon for a few weeks.' It's like they have a direct line into my brain. Damn them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on April 04, 2012, 12:40:48 PM
I'm reading the third novel in the Horus Heresy series.

Galaxy In Flames by Ben Counter.  I'm devouring these books at a rate I have never been able to accomplish before in my life.  These books are that good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 04, 2012, 01:59:51 PM
I want to start the Horus series too. Just so many waking hours in then day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 05, 2012, 03:07:20 PM
When I go to visit my friends in St. Cloud tomorrow, on my way up I'm stopping at B&N to grab a copy of A Rising Thunder (the new Honor Harrington novel) by David Weber.  Giggity! 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Fetrik on April 06, 2012, 03:27:01 PM
I just finished reading A Dance of Dragons (song of fire and ice 5). I had sort of dreaded reading the book because the book wasn't highly rated on Amazon. But to me (tilt included) it was a 4,5 star book. Since it was a few years since i read it  i just started re-reading book 4.

After that i got a bunch of books lying on my sofa, 5 Warhammer books and a few boks from Elizabeth Moon in the successor to her Paksennarion series and a couple of WWII books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on April 06, 2012, 03:33:56 PM
Over the last few years I've been collecting the Time/Life series "Epic of Flight." They are 30+ years old now but are still a good source for aviation history.

I recently found three volumes on sale used at my local library for 25 cents each. A good deal I would say. I'm working my way through:

The Aeronauts
First Aviators
Soldiers of Fortune (A very interesting history of mercenary pilots)

I'm going back to this library.......:)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 08, 2012, 03:40:37 PM
Aeronauts? Sounds steampunk-esque.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 08, 2012, 04:01:15 PM
Decided to switch up from my usual genres of historical fiction and history and started reading the first SF series I've picked up in years.  Finished The Old Man's War last week and rather enjoyed it.  Not exactly the deepest book but I found it entertaining.  I should check and see if this book or Avatar came out first as one borrowed from the other.  I picked up the second book in the series, The Ghost Brigades and I'm enjoying that one too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 08, 2012, 04:15:24 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 08, 2012, 04:01:15 PM
Decided to switch up from my usual genres of historical fiction and history and started reading the first SF series I've picked up in years.  Finished The Old Man's War last week and rather enjoyed it.  Not exactly the deepest book but I found it entertaining.  I should check and see if this book or Avatar came out first as one borrowed from the other.  I picked up the second book in the series, The Ghost Brigades and I'm enjoying that one too.

I read Old Man's War last month and I, too, liked it. I'm planning on getting Ghost Brigades after I finish a few other books.
Scalzi's book came out in 2005 so before the Avatar the movie. BTW, OM'sW has been bought by Paramount for a movie
project as well With Wolfgang Peterson as director.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on April 09, 2012, 06:50:01 PM
I just started to read, When the Devil Dances by John Ringo, but I cannot get into.  I liked the first two books, but just cannot get into this one.  I think it's because the main character is the only one with a brain and everyone else would be dead without him, everyone being the entire population of Earth. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 09, 2012, 07:57:58 PM
I have a very large list of book that I have started but not finished reading lately, but the group I am sticking with for now are:

With Fire and Sword by Henryk Siekiewicz: http://www.amazon.com/Sword-Historical-Poland-Russia-ebook/dp/B005HKK7UG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1334018894&sr=8-2

I got this for free for my Kindle and I am really surprised that I am sticking with it.  The beginning of the book was tough to get through but I had a feeling there was a good story in there so I bulled through.  I'm approaching 50% complete now and the story is really picking up so I think there is a good chance that I will finish it.  I would give this book one solid thumbs up- definitely not for everybody, but I would guess that a significant number of forumites here would groove on it.  It's very violent.

The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights by John Steinbeck: http://www.amazon.com/Acts-Arthur-Noble-Knights-ebook/dp/B001MSMUHA/ref=sr_1_9?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1334019127&sr=1-9

I'm still searching for my own personal holy grail of King Arthur lore.  I started reading Malory figuring it was a good idea to start with the classic, but then I came across this version at the library on base the other day.  It's a very easy read.  I'm not really enjoying it too much.  The stories don't have much meat to them.  I will finish it because I want the background info for my Pendragon campaign, but I will definitely be looking for better historical KA fiction in the future.

Shadowmarch by Tad Williams: http://www.amazon.com/Shadowmarch-Volume-I-Tad-Williams/dp/0756402700/ref=tmm_pap_title_0

This book isn't horrible.  I'm 80% done.  I started it quite a while ago, got distracted for a few weeks, and am now returning to it.  It's interesting.  I am not sure if I'm going to continue through the whole trilogy.  I think I will finish this one and give the second book about 50 pages.  If it grabs me I'll stick with it; if not, I'm going to move on to The Sword of Shanara trilogy, which I have sitting on my desk ready to go.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 16, 2012, 02:00:20 PM
Deep into 'Surface Detail' now - I just love the Culture books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 16, 2012, 02:09:56 PM
I'm about to start reading an illustrated version of War of the Worlds.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 16, 2012, 03:03:05 PM
^Cool. One of my all time favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 16, 2012, 07:28:50 PM
Finally finished reading through the core book for Black Crusade. Still in a 40K mood, so I think I'll hop back in to the Horus Heresy series and start on Galaxy in Flames.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on April 16, 2012, 08:23:34 PM
How many books do you guys read (and finish) a month ??? I average about 4.....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on April 16, 2012, 08:38:40 PM
Quote from: MIGMaster on April 16, 2012, 08:23:34 PM
How many books do you guys read (and finish) a month ??? I average about 4.....

You are doing better then me.  I have always been a slow reader.  So I usually get in about 1 book and a couple magazines a month... maybe.  But I usually only read in the evenings before I fall asleep.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 17, 2012, 12:56:06 AM
I recently switched from working straight days back to shift work (I guess I'm weird, but I love shift work.  And I get a week off every month).  On nights, as long as nothing goes haywire, I can get the majority of my work done about 4-6 hours into my 12 hour shift.  That leaves lots of time for reading while waiting for alarms to pop up so I'm averaging about 5-7 books a month.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 17, 2012, 05:18:49 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 17, 2012, 12:56:06 AMThat leaves lots of time for reading while waiting for alarms to pop up so I'm averaging about 5-7 books a month.

You work at the Springfield Nuclear Powerplant? How are those two Fissionator 1952 Slow-Fission Reactors holding out? Still leaky?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 17, 2012, 09:52:13 AM
SDR PLEASE let me know if there are any openings!

Even with more time to read on the commute, I still average 1-2 books a month because I pass out asleep most of the time. If they are easy reads, like War of the Worlds or Abe Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, I can get in 4-5 month.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on April 17, 2012, 09:58:36 AM
QuoteEven with more time to read on the commute

I take it that you don't drive to work - at least on your own  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 17, 2012, 10:05:50 AM
I used to car pool at my old job. Now it's a 75 minute train ride. As well as a 10 minute car ride, 10 minute ferry ride, and 20 minute walk.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on April 17, 2012, 10:18:06 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 17, 2012, 10:05:50 AM
I used to car pool at my old job. Now it's a 75 minute train ride. As well as a 10 minute car ride, 10 minute ferry ride, and 20 minute walk.

Wholly crap! Each way?!? Man half yer life is passin by just commuting......
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on April 17, 2012, 10:44:54 AM
Once they devise a transporter unit imagine all the free time people will have.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on April 17, 2012, 10:50:35 AM
Quote from: MIGMaster on April 17, 2012, 10:44:54 AM
Once they devise a transporter unit imagine all the free time people will have.

IIRC that's what they said about computers. And cars. And airplanes. And telephones...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 17, 2012, 11:09:02 AM
I spend 25 hours per week commuting. At my old job it was 10 hours per week. It's the price I pay to live in the woods and work in the city.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 17, 2012, 06:01:54 PM
We have 3 openings Gus.  Two are almost guaranteed to go to our two temp staff, but the third is still open.  Of course, you'd have to move to Vancouver where 1200 sq ft crack shacks sell for $1 mill+ and every single thing you buy is taxed at 12%.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 17, 2012, 09:21:44 PM
Take the quiz!

http://www.crackshackormansion.com/ (http://www.crackshackormansion.com/)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 17, 2012, 10:49:14 PM
Quote from: MIGMaster on April 16, 2012, 08:23:34 PM
How many books do you guys read (and finish) a month ??? I average about 4.....

I normally go through about a book a year, but this year has been insane. I don't know why, but I'm flying through books every time I sit down to read. I track my reading on Goodreads. My goal for the year was 50 books. When I finish Galaxy in Flames, I'll already be through 25.  :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on April 18, 2012, 07:08:47 AM
Whoah - you are well ahead of schedule ! I better get my ass in gear !
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 18, 2012, 09:37:22 AM
Tempting SDR. But I am already being taxed to death in New York. Perhaps I can shack up with you and send the money home?

Crack Shack or Mansion rules btw. I got 12 of 16 correct. Perhaps I should just set up shop in Vancouver as a realtor?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on April 18, 2012, 09:44:57 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 18, 2012, 09:37:22 AM
Tempting SDR. But I am already being taxed to death in New York. Perhaps I can shack up with you and send the money home?

Puh-lease. You are not "being taxed to death."

You're spreading the wealth around.

Get with the program.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 18, 2012, 09:47:34 AM
I don't like this program.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on April 18, 2012, 11:33:02 PM
I just started reading On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman. Very interesting so far.....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on April 19, 2012, 05:25:41 AM
Quote from: LongBlade on April 17, 2012, 10:50:35 AM
Quote from: MIGMaster on April 17, 2012, 10:44:54 AM
Once they devise a transporter unit imagine all the free time people will have.

IIRC that's what they said about computers. And cars. And airplanes. And telephones...

Yeap, the bastards will just pile more work on.

I've started A Dance with Dragons having just gone through books 1-4. I'm really enjoying it so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 19, 2012, 10:14:25 AM
Anyone here read The Rook by Dan O'Malley? Sounds awesome:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316098795/ref=gno_cart_title_1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 19, 2012, 09:05:06 PM
Okay, I not only read Galaxy in Flames, I also plowed through the 2nd game in the Hunger Games trilogy. Galaxy was excellent. From what I understand, it ends the sort of 3 book intro arc, and from here on in each book is more of an individual story within the whole of the Heresy. And I actually liked Catching Fire more than Hunger Games, which I thought was okay.

Next up is the 3rd and final book in the Guillermo Del Toro/Chuck Hogan vampire trilogy, The Night Eternal. After that, I might start checking out the source book for the Outbreak Undead RPG...but I also have a lot of board game rulebooks I need to start going through.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 19, 2012, 09:08:31 PM
I'm going to start reading Hunger Games in about 5 minutes!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 19, 2012, 09:40:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 19, 2012, 09:08:31 PM
I'm going to start reading Hunger Games in about 5 minutes!

Reading any other tweeny books? 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on April 20, 2012, 09:11:47 AM
Quote from: Bison on April 19, 2012, 09:40:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 19, 2012, 09:08:31 PM
I'm going to start reading Hunger Games in about 5 minutes!

Reading any other tweeny books?

For a while I was reading the Ranger's Apprentice series. I stopped reading after about book seven because I found I was buying the dang hardbacks at $20 because I couldn't wait for the paperbacks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 20, 2012, 09:42:53 AM
OK so I'm about 50 pages into Hunger Games. It's aight. Waiting for my earth to be shattered by it. The Wife recommended it to me and she usually has very different taste in entertainment than I do. At a minimum all three books will not take very long to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on April 20, 2012, 04:26:48 PM
I picked up a used copy of "Flight of the Intruder" for 50 cents. Great airplane reading for my biz trip.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 20, 2012, 05:03:57 PM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on April 20, 2012, 04:26:48 PM
I picked up a used copy of "Flight of the Intruder" for 50 cents. Great airplane reading for my biz trip.

Great book, made me go looking for A6 downloads for FS9
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on April 20, 2012, 05:07:35 PM
Quote from: bob48 on April 20, 2012, 05:03:57 PM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on April 20, 2012, 04:26:48 PM
I picked up a used copy of "Flight of the Intruder" for 50 cents. Great airplane reading for my biz trip.

Great book, made me go looking for A6 downloads for FS9

Strike Fighters 2: Vietnam with a cockpit mod from combatace.com.  8)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 21, 2012, 05:17:29 PM
And I'm done The Night Eternal. I really enjoyed this trilogy. Equal parts horror, medical thriller, character drama and alternate ancient/biblical history. Really, really well done.

Next up...hmmm...I've got 3 Space Marine omnibus collections to read : Ultramarines, Soul Drinkers and the second Blood Angels. Either one of those or a book about the insanity of ad agencies in the 70's that was apparently a source book for Mad Men. The title of the book is an actual slogan that was proposed for Panasonic in the 60's. Japanese electronics sold like hot cakes, but people didn't realize Panasonic was a Japanese company because their name doesn't sound particularly Japanese. So the suggested tag line to remind people of the company's heritage was :

From the People Who Brought You Pearl Harbor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 22, 2012, 01:03:33 PM
Currently reading the Soviet-Afghan War, a translation of the Soviet general staff study on their excursion in Afghanistan.  Also reading The Malakand Field Force by Winston Churchill about his intereactions with Afghanistan.  Got that one and a few other works by Chruchill for free on kindle.  Interesting how little has changed over there in the last century.

Been thinking about picking up the Game of Thrones series as my escape reading now that I've finished A Rising Thunder.  I haven't watched the HBO series but seems like the books have quite a following around here.  Thoughts?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 23, 2012, 10:12:52 AM
^ I read the first book in the series and liked it a lot. Big fan of the HBO series too. Are there print copies available of The Malakand Field Force?

Also, Bison is right. I am finding Hunger Games to be quite girly. Think I'll skip the 2nd and 3rd books. The story is just not grabbing me the way I like to be grabbed and the story reminds me way too much of Stephen King's The Running Man (and the movie).

Onward and upward!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on April 24, 2012, 03:27:32 PM
Here's what I'm currently reading....

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blacklibrary.com%2FImages%2FProduct%2FDefaultBL%2Fxlarge%2FFlight-of-the-Eisenstein.jpg&hash=f891df161e5b37da2d570f63a6efefecc68e8261)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on April 24, 2012, 03:35:00 PM
Great book, W8. That's when the story kicks into hyperspace.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 24, 2012, 03:45:36 PM
I'm reading War of the Dragon Lady

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg1.fantasticfiction.co.uk%2Fimages%2Fn77%2Fn389655.jpg&hash=3530781e2c38a407e72d250ccfb7c3fcd80dc5a4)

It's the 8th book in a series about a late Victorian era officer and his Welsh batman.  It's not the best series, but I enjoy the time period so I like the books. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on April 24, 2012, 05:57:16 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on April 24, 2012, 03:35:00 PM
Great book, W8. That's when the story kicks into hyperspace.

I hear you.  I'm half way through now.  I think the whole series so far does an outstanding job illuminating the reader on just how heartbreaking and gut wrenching Horus's treachery is.  I still can't decide if I want to hate or feel sorry for Horus.  I definitely feel bad for the characters that were betrayed. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on April 24, 2012, 06:10:39 PM
Currently going through this one, Too Few Too Far (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Too-Few-Far-Marine-Commando/dp/1445606208/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1335308938&sr=1-1) - Britains Modern Day Rorke's Drift, apparently.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51cZToL-AJL._SS500_.jpg&hash=f6823c5e3d935e4417b68c175f1466735e9f749f)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 25, 2012, 01:16:28 AM
The Architecture of Happiness
http://www.amazon.com/Architecture-Happiness-Vintage-Alain-Botton/dp/0307277240/ref=tag_stp_s2f_edpp_alain_15on (http://www.amazon.com/Architecture-Happiness-Vintage-Alain-Botton/dp/0307277240/ref=tag_stp_s2f_edpp_alain_15on)


Commander Data would like it.
Recommended.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 25, 2012, 09:57:21 AM
I am about to start Donald Kagan's The Peloponnesian War to wash the girly taste of The Hunger Games out of my mouth.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on April 25, 2012, 11:10:46 AM
Tropic of Capricorn by Henry Miller. No idea what this is nor what this Miller dude is about. But i like stories about animals.
1. Dogs
2. Capricorns
3. Unicorns
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jack Nastyface on April 25, 2012, 04:46:52 PM
Quote from: Keunert on April 25, 2012, 11:10:46 AM
Tropic of Capricorn by Henry Miller. No idea what this is nor what this Miller dude is about. But i like stories about animals.
1. Dogs
2. Capricorns
3. Unicorns
Great book.  Lots of sex.  Didn't like "Cancer" as much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 25, 2012, 06:40:33 PM
Advanced Squad Leader Starter Kit rulebook and LnL Band of Heroes rulebook. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 25, 2012, 07:06:02 PM
Quote from: Bison on April 25, 2012, 06:40:33 PM
Advanced Squad Leader Starter Kit rulebook and LnL Band of Heroes rulebook.

Not much sex in those two... no special rules for utilizing Anias Nin.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 25, 2012, 07:13:53 PM
Probably going to jump in to Empire of Silver by Conn Iggulden. The first 3 books in the series were like a narrative history of Genghis Khan that seemed to follow pretty close to history. This one starts up a few years later, with one of Genghis' sons in place as the new Khan as the Mongols reach in to the West.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 25, 2012, 07:47:48 PM
^I've been interested in those for a while. You enjoy them? I guess it's pretty obvious since you've already read 3 of them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 25, 2012, 11:31:04 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 25, 2012, 07:47:48 PM
^I've been interested in those for a while. You enjoy them? I guess it's pretty obvious since you've already read 3 of them.

Most definitely. Like I said, rather than being alternative historical fiction, this series could best be described as narrative fiction. A few liberties taken here and there, but it generally plays out the story of what is known (or suspected) to have happened.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on April 30, 2012, 09:07:12 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:45:29 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on March 11, 2012, 02:35:53 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 11, 2012, 02:11:18 PM
Quote from: republic on March 10, 2012, 03:56:54 PM
I'm kind of an A.D.D. reader.  I'm currently in the middle of:


  • Eye of the World - Robert Jordan (Friend has begged me to read this series for awhile)

Fair warning:  Some folks find the pacing of Eye of the World to be rather...glacial.  I personally didn't have that problem, but I know a number of folks (including those who are fans of the series) have said they found the first book to be among the slowest.

I read this book and came away thinking along the same lines and have not read another book in the series since.  Should I give the next book a try?
I would, yes.  EotW (sadly) isn't a very good introduction to the series. 

Now if The Great Hunt (the second book) doesn't grab you, *then* I would go ahead and walk away.

On the advice of Martok (several pages ago) I am starting the second book in The Wheel of Time series, The Great Hunt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 30, 2012, 09:10:53 PM
Well I'm 100 pages in to Kagan's Peloponnesian War and it is lighter than expected, which is a good thing. I know nothing about Greek history and don't enjoy it as much as other areas because everything is so foreign sounding to me, but reading the book while playing Hegemony is at least keeping my interest up til Diablo III comes out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: meadbelly on April 30, 2012, 09:40:16 PM
I'm on a Charles Stross kick right now. Just finished Saturday's Child and Accelerando. Am working on Iron Sunrise and will probably tackle Halting State or Glasshouses yet.

The guy is clearly good, and his imagined worlds are a nice change of pace from the usual "hard-sci-fi" stuff. (Not all of Stross is hard scifi. Accelerando/Iron Sunrise take place and are informed by hard scifi.) I want to like him, and I do in some places. But I couldn't get into the Family Trade, and I find he has an occasional penchant to go light hearted in places that break immersion for me.

The breadth and quality of his writing is definitely worth checking out for any scifi fan. If he wasn't american, he'd be the fourth Big Scot writing at the moment (the big three being Iain Banks, Ian Macdonald, and Ken Macleod. Macleod is worth reading alone for his exploration of anarchic capitalism and the apartment complex that established a MAD nuclear capability in order for independence. It has nothing to do with my letters to Kyrgistan, btw.)

Also recently finished Jon T. Williams' Implied Spaces. Spectacularly fun beginning. The rest of the novel doesn't pay off as well, but is nonetheless an entertaining read. And I just like the concept of Implied Spaces, frankly.

R. Scott Bakker continues to maintain the high quality of his second trilogy in the Prince of Nothing series, and I would put the work in a top 5 and possibly top 3 fantasy list. I think any fan of different-perspective fantasy literature should give this series a go. It's not easy, but it is tremendously rewarding. Sranc deserve a place in the pantheon right next to orcses.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 01, 2012, 01:13:06 AM
Well going on recommendations you guys made over at the old site a while back, I'm finally reading The First Man in Rome by Colleen McCullough.  Definitely a good read thus far. 




Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 30, 2012, 09:07:12 PM

On the advice of Martok (several pages ago) I am starting the second book in The Wheel of Time series, The Great Hunt.
Good luck!  I hope you enjoy it. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on May 01, 2012, 06:42:50 AM
I was just thinking - it's probably a real good sign that so many of us can read !  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on May 25, 2012, 07:00:41 PM
Having just finished Fulgrim I now move onto Descent of Angels. 

Fulgrim paints a picture of horror, treachery, despair, and the anguish associated with betrayal like no other book I've ever read.  So far of all the books I've read in the Horus Heresy series, Fulgrim illustrates just how wretched Horus's treachery is.  Before I read this book, I use to think those Chaos Marines are really cool in their funky armor, I really want to play them in Dawn of War II.  Now I realize just how monstrous Chaos really is.  I feel it is of utmost urgency that those loyal to the Emperor of Mankind triumph over Horus.  The galaxy is at stake. 

As you can tell I just finished Fulgrim and my mind is racing into overdrive over the series of calamitous events I read.  It's a terrible tragedy.  Will good triumph?  Is what we think good not so good after all.  I'm tortured and I can't stop reading this series. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 25, 2012, 07:24:21 PM
Within the rest of the WH3/4K multiverse, what are the titles, in some kind of thematic order, that comprise the Horus Heresy story arc? I'm thinking of starting up the series soon and I want to do it right.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on May 25, 2012, 08:47:37 PM
Quote from: Martok on May 01, 2012, 01:13:06 AM

Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 30, 2012, 09:07:12 PM

On the advice of Martok (several pages ago) I am starting the second book in The Wheel of Time series, The Great Hunt.
Good luck!  I hope you enjoy it.

I am almost done with The Great Hunt, I warned you I was a slow read with limited reading time :)

I have enjoyed it so much more then the first book.  I will be getting the next one out of the library when I finish this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on May 25, 2012, 08:50:00 PM
^Very good question.  A lot of people will tell you that the order doesn't matter, just pick up any book in the series but after reading the first 5 books I disagree with that philosophy.  Like you say do it right and start from the beginning.  Currently there are 23 books in the series from what I remember but I'll give you the first ten in order along with what my opinion of the authors' writing style for the book in question:


This should get you going.  I've found 3 of the books I read at used booksellers and the other two from Barnes and Noble.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 25, 2012, 08:59:14 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on May 25, 2012, 08:50:00 PM
^Very good question.  A lot of people will tell you that the order doesn't matter, just pick up any book in the series but after reading the first 5 books I disagree with that philosophy.  Like you say do it right and start from the beginning.  Currently there are 23 books in the series from what I remember but I'll give you the first ten in order along with what my opinion of the authors' writing style for the book in question:


  • Horus Rising (Dan Abnett, very talented)
  • False Gods (Graham McNeill, talented)
  • Galaxy in Flames (Ben Counter, talented)
  • The Flight of the Eisenstein (James Swallow, talented)
  • Fulgrim (Graham McNeill, very talented in this book)
  • Descent of Angels (Mitchel Scanlon, have just started no opinion yet)
  • Legion (Dan Abnett)
  • Battle for the Abyss (Ben Counter)
  • Mechanicum (Graham McNeill)
  • Tales of Heresy (Nick Kyme and Lindsey Priestly)

This should get you going.  I've found 3 of the books I read at used booksellers and the other two from Barnes and Noble.

Thanks, W8t. Chrono is the way to go. I'll start scouting for used copies forthwith.   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 26, 2012, 08:14:04 AM
Retreat to the Reich.
Player of Games (Iain M Banks - Culture)
Deceiver (C J Cherryh - Foreigner series)
Irelands Narrow Gauge Railways.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on May 26, 2012, 08:22:58 AM
Quote from: W8taminute on May 25, 2012, 08:50:00 PM
^Very good question.  A lot of people will tell you that the order doesn't matter, just pick up any book in the series but after reading the first 5 books I disagree with that philosophy.  Like you say do it right and start from the beginning.  Currently there are 23 books in the series from what I remember but I'll give you the first ten in order along with what my opinion of the authors' writing style for the book in question:


  • Horus Rising (Dan Abnett, very talented)
  • False Gods (Graham McNeill, talented)
  • Galaxy in Flames (Ben Counter, talented)
  • The Flight of the Eisenstein (James Swallow, talented)
  • Fulgrim (Graham McNeill, very talented in this book)
  • Descent of Angels (Mitchel Scanlon, have just started no opinion yet)
  • Legion (Dan Abnett)
  • Battle for the Abyss (Ben Counter)
  • Mechanicum (Graham McNeill)
  • Tales of Heresy (Nick Kyme and Lindsey Priestly)

This should get you going.  I've found 3 of the books I read at used booksellers and the other two from Barnes and Noble.

its not that it isnt a great book, but i found after the trauma of fulgrim that i had difficulty with descent of angels - its just so far removed from fulgrim that it took a while to adjust to the new tale
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on May 26, 2012, 09:19:07 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on May 26, 2012, 08:22:58 AM

its not that it isnt a great book, but i found after the trauma of fulgrim that i had difficulty with descent of angels - its just so far removed from fulgrim that it took a while to adjust to the new tale


That is one thing I noticed with the first 4 books.  The stories begin in a manner as to seem to have nothing to do with anything, but as the reader advances through a particular book the backstory starts to tie in.  That seems to be how they're writing this series. 

I've read only the prologue of Book 6 and read the negative reviews online.  You are not alone in your feelings.  I still need to dive in further before making a comment, but so far I believe what they're trying to do is give the backstory of Lion El'Johnson and the planet he was deposited on.  Remember what happened in Fulgrim, the book before Descent of Angels?  Horus's plans are starting to advance now, and a lot of the players have not made it.  To fill in the void of characters, we must learn of what happened to the other Primarchs when they were scattered across the galaxy at birth.  If that is the intent, I get it and I don't understand why the WH40K fans who had difficulty with Descent of Angels don't.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 26, 2012, 11:25:59 AM
Am currently halfway through (re)reading The Last Kingdom, the first book in Bernard Cornwell's "Saxon Tales" series.  After I finish that one, I'll be finally starting How Firm a Foundation, the fifth novel in David Weber's "Safehold" series. 





Quote from: TheCommandTent on May 25, 2012, 08:47:37 PM

I am almost done with The Great Hunt, I warned you I was a slow read with limited reading time :)

I have enjoyed it so much more then the first book.  I will be getting the next one out of the library when I finish this one.
Sweet!  I'm glad you're liking it.  :) 

Now you know what I mean when I talked about it being a much better representation of the series than Eye of the World, and how there's a world of difference between the two.  The first novel acts more like a massive introduction to the characters and the world, whereas the second one consists of actual, ya know...story.  ::) 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on May 26, 2012, 03:04:44 PM
Ripped through the Marvel Heroic Roleplaying core book, At the Mountains of Madness and the third and last Hunger Games book in about a week and a half. Now I'm on to Unholy Night (some sort of an alternate take on the Three Wise Men).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 26, 2012, 05:57:28 PM
^How do you read so fast? You some kinda "jenius"?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on May 27, 2012, 06:20:49 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 26, 2012, 05:57:28 PM
^How do you read so fast? You some kinda "jenius"?

Yes. Yes I am.

Or something.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2012, 08:45:00 PM
Impressive. With my hellish long commute I now tear through 400-500 pages every couple of weeks and I am happy with that. That has also led me to purchase more titles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on May 27, 2012, 11:20:03 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 27, 2012, 08:45:00 PM
Impressive. With my hellish long commute I now tear through 400-500 pages every couple of weeks and I am happy with that. That has also led me to purchase more titles.

Well, the three that I mentioned aren't massive. I think the Marvel book was about 200 pages, Mountains of Madness is barely over 100 and the Hunger Games trilogy is not exactly word packed.  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MIGMaster on May 28, 2012, 07:04:15 AM
I like the books you can color  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 28, 2012, 12:11:43 PM
^HAHA
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on June 03, 2012, 03:26:52 AM
Almost done with "The Great Book of Amber" which is the 10 volume compilation of Roger Zelazney's "Amber" fantasy series. The latter books deal a lot with the Chaos end of reality and things get appropriately weird. I've always liked the series in large part because they describe a sort of an "everyman's" fantasy world. The language and character behavior is more 20th century than other fantasy books I've read.

Getting ready re-read Asimov's "Foundation Trilogy" for about the zillionth time. Saving the second part of my re-read of "Flight of the Intruder" for my biz trip next week.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 03, 2012, 03:28:54 AM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on June 03, 2012, 03:26:52 AM
Getting ready re-read Asimov's "Foundation Trilogy" for about the zillionth time.

Fantastic trilogy. I just read it again this past winter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 03, 2012, 05:51:18 AM
^ Yeah Bison, I still go back and read it now and again, although I was not so keen on the follow-on stories, the original trilogy is just sooo good.

Same with LotR, which I first read back in the 1960's. I guess I must have read it around 20 times over the years, its just such a great book.

For SciFi with a bit of a difference, the 'Foreigner' series by C.J.Cherryh is good. I got Mrs Bob hooked on them and she ripped through the first 12 books in short order, I'm now waiting for book 13, so there will be a battle to see who gets it first!

I enjoyed the Nights Dawn trilogy by Peter.F.Hamilton, although it did take a bit of getting through at times, it was worth the effort, although I thought the end was a bit contrived.

Iain M Banks 'Culture' books are very re-readable, I've on my way through them again ATM, and the Terry Pratchett 'Disc World' books are always good for a bit of light relief.

Just recently, me and she read the Dark Tower series by Stephen King which we enjoyed very much.

Too many books to read - not enough time - thats the problem ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on June 03, 2012, 04:40:06 PM
Finished Unholy Night. REALLY liked it. His previous books were good, but I think that this one was a step up. It isn't so much a satirical type of thing as it is his own version of just who the Three Wise Men really were, and what the motivations of the other people involved actually were. And he clearly puts a ton of time in to researching the world these stories take place in. I loved this one.

I also read Marv Levy's book Where Else Would You Rather Be. It was actually pretty good, and the guy's pretty funny. Spent a lot more time covering his life and growth than just telling football stories, but there were plenty of those as well. The only real problem I had with it is that, and this happens in a lot of books written by coaches, he often overrates his players. Bruce Smith and Jim Kelly and the rest of the big boys were great, but when he's calling Phil Hansen a force and describing Mario Haggan and Damien Covington as great players...not so much.

Now...I'm not sure what's next. I grabbed a book called The Age of Ra awhile back that probably is the next read. It seems to be about the return of ancient Egyptian gods who conquer the world or something.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 10, 2012, 05:37:33 PM
George Washington's First War, by David Clary

The Bear Went Over the Mountain, translated by Lester Grau.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on June 11, 2012, 03:10:43 PM
Quote from: bob48 on June 03, 2012, 05:51:18 AM
...I was not so keen on the follow-on stories, the original trilogy is just sooo good.


I had the same issue. The original trilogy is a bit dated in terms of "look how great atomic energy will be" but otherwise it really stands the test of time. On the other hand if cold fusion is actually doable we could see a lot of the neat little atomic powered devices Azimov foretold. Time will tell...........
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on June 11, 2012, 03:41:35 PM
"Old Man's War" (and you in the peanut gallery....stfu!!!) by John Scalzi. So far it's a somewhat more entertaining version of "Starship Troopers", and yeah, yeah, I know that's sacrilege.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 12, 2012, 03:51:32 PM
I've never read Starship Troopers or watched the movie.  How's that for scifi sacrilege?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 12, 2012, 04:15:06 PM
I've got the book here Bison, wanna borrow it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 12, 2012, 07:11:44 PM
Steelie I wanted to thank you for your recommendations of Abe Lincoln Vampire Hunter and Britannia's Fist...I read them both in a matter of days which is record time for me and enjoyed both a lot.

I am now reading straight history again with Diana Preston's 'The Dark Defile', the story of the British Empire's first Afghan campaign in 1838.

Preston is an excellent writer...she wrote 'Lusitania' which is supposedly excellent (I haven't read it yet) and a book about the Boxer Rebellion which is one of my all time favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 12, 2012, 08:23:39 PM
Wait a sec...Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter isn't straight history?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 12, 2012, 10:46:33 PM
Just read everything from Page 1.  Not much to add except for those who tried Robert Jordan.  Stop.  Cease and desist.  You will never get that time back.

Another poor soul mentioned the Sword of Shannara.  PLEASE stop.  What is once read cannot be un-read.

I haven't read Starship Troopers or seen the movie either.

And Dance With Dragons.  Never have I waited so long for so little.  ( I almost feel like a woman).

R. Scott Baker is fantastic and should be read by all fantasy lovers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 13, 2012, 01:05:00 AM
Am about two-thirds of the way through How Firm a Foundation, the fifth novel in the Safehold series. 

Of the book so far, I will say only this:  David Weber is a bastard-coasted bastard with bastard filling.  He obviously delights in pissing off his readers by [SPOILER] killing off major (and beloved) characters!  Gah!!!  >:( 




Quote from: Bison on June 12, 2012, 03:51:32 PM
I've never read Starship Troopers or watched the movie.  How's that for scifi sacrilege?
People's mileage will vary on the movie (I enjoy it in a "guilty pleasure" sort of way), but you should definitely read the book, Bison.  I genuinely believe you'd like it. 




Quote from: MetalDog on June 12, 2012, 10:46:33 PM
Just read everything from Page 1.  Not much to add except for those who tried Robert Jordan.  Stop.  Cease and desist.  You will never get that time back.
'phro, you wound me! 

In fairness, though, the Wheel of Time series indeed isn't for everyone.  It does bog down in books 7-10, which a lot of folks (understandably) have a hard time getting through.  The pace picks up again in a major way in book 11 (Knife of Dreams), and I feel it *is* worth getting to that point, but I don't blame those weren't able to persevere that far. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on June 13, 2012, 02:12:39 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 12, 2012, 07:11:44 PM
Steelie I wanted to thank you for your recommendations of Abe Lincoln Vampire Hunter and Britannia's Fist...I read them both in a matter of days which is record time for me and enjoyed both a lot.

If you like Abe, check out the author's latest book about his own version of the Three Wise Men called Unholy Night. So damn good.

I ripped through The Age of Ra. Pretty decent overall. I found it refreshing that during the scenes when he's writing from the point of view of the Egyptian gods, he had them speaking like regular people. It beats the usual overly flowery blather that typically gets subbed in at moments like that. Now I'm about a third of the way through Void Stalker, which is the third book following a war band of the Night Lords Chaos Legion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 13, 2012, 02:37:44 AM
@Martok I'm sure I will when I eventually get around to it.  I got a pretty long list of books on my to read list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 13, 2012, 05:53:11 AM
Quote from: Martok on June 13, 2012, 01:05:00 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 12, 2012, 10:46:33 PM
Just read everything from Page 1.  Not much to add except for those who tried Robert Jordan.  Stop.  Cease and desist.  You will never get that time back.
'phro, you wound me! 

In fairness, though, the Wheel of Time series indeed isn't for everyone.  It does bog down in books 7-10, which a lot of folks (understandably) have a hard time getting through.  The pace picks up again in a major way in book 11 (Knife of Dreams), and I feel it *is* worth getting to that point, but I don't blame those weren't able to persevere that far.

The glacial pace, yes, I'm one of those, turned me off afte I got through the first seven or eight books.  Is 11 the one written by someone else after Jordan died?  Might explain the rapid pace. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 13, 2012, 06:02:35 AM
Knife of Dreams (book 11) is actually the last one written by Jordan himself before he died.  It's almost as if he sensed the end coming, and realized he needed to move things along again! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 13, 2012, 09:39:11 AM
Arctic: will do on Unholy Night.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Centurion40 on June 13, 2012, 12:51:44 PM
Quote from: Keunert on April 25, 2012, 11:10:46 AM
Tropic of Capricorn by Henry Miller. No idea what this is nor what this Miller dude is about. But i like stories about animals.
1. Dogs
2. Capricorns
3. Unicorns

LOL!!  The legend endures!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 13, 2012, 03:02:36 PM
@MARTOK You're finally reading How Firm a Foundation.  Great.  PM and let me know where you're at.  If you're up to where I think you are, then I whole heartedly agree.

If you go out to David Webers web site, www.davidweber.net, you can find a snippets section in the forums.  There, you can find the beginning parts of the next Safehold book, Midst Toil and Tribulation, along with other soon to be released books of his.  MTaT is due out in September of this year. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 13, 2012, 03:05:55 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 12, 2012, 07:11:44 PM
Steelie I wanted to thank you for your recommendations of Abe Lincoln Vampire Hunter and Britannia's Fist...I read them both in a matter of days which is record time for me and enjoyed both a lot.

Is Britannia's Fist well developed and believable.  It looks like it is less thann 300 pages, is that correct?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 13, 2012, 03:38:13 PM
First book is 225 pages, the 2nd one in the series (Rainbow of Blood) is 275 pages. It reads more realistically than most other historical fiction I have read. The author is a defense analyst and was in the US Army. And he's an historian.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Azzurri on June 13, 2012, 05:23:35 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 12, 2012, 10:46:33 PM
R. Scott Baker is fantastic and should be read by all fantasy lovers.

Requoted for truth!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 13, 2012, 07:58:46 PM
^ Thanks, Azz.  Glad you agree.

And I seem to remember someone giving a shout out for the Zelazny, "Amber" omnibus.  Good on ya'!  I own it and love it!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GroggyGrognard on June 13, 2012, 10:16:17 PM
About halfway through Fatal Voyage by Dan Kurzman

Carry on gents,

Groggy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 14, 2012, 11:23:33 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 13, 2012, 03:02:36 PM
@MARTOK You're finally reading How Firm a Foundation.  Great.  PM and let me know where you're at.  If you're up to where I think you are, then I whole heartedly agree.
PM sent. 



Quote from: OJsDad on June 13, 2012, 03:02:36 PM
If you go out to David Webers web site, www.davidweber.net, you can find a snippets section in the forums.  There, you can find the beginning parts of the next Safehold book, Midst Toil and Tribulation, along with other soon to be released books of his.  MTaT is due out in September of this year.
I already have his website bookmarked, but I (ironically) rarely visit it...mostly because I'm paranoid about spoilers.  :P 


I can't believe the next Safehold book is already coming out this fall (not that I'm complaining, of course).  That man is on a tear! 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 14, 2012, 03:54:43 PM
Quote from: Martok on June 14, 2012, 11:23:33 AM
I can't believe the next Safehold book is already coming out this fall (not that I'm complaining, of course).  That man is on a tear!

Well, I wish he would write the next Hell's Gate book! It's an awesome premise:

http://www.amazon.com/Hells-Gate-Multiverse-Book-1/dp/1416509399

QuoteFrom Publishers Weekly
Magic and high tech collide in this exciting military SF novel from bestseller Weber (War of Honor) and Evans (Far Edge of Darkness), the first of a new series. Two human societies, the Sharona and the Union of Arcana, have evolved in parallel universes without encountering another civilization, human or otherwise. The Sharona exhibit a level of technology roughly analogous to the late 19th century, with psionic abilities thrown in for seasoning, but the Arcana have harnessed magical energies down to the consumer level. Astonishingly, it's the magical society that suffers the greater shock when one of their companies encounters a small Sharona civilian survey team and is almost annihilated by the enemy's repeating firearms. The authors treat both societies sympathetically and realistically, with human vices and virtues evenly distributed. The narrative bogs down slightly under the weight of the world building necessary for later installments, but is uncompromising in sacrificing even strong, sympathetic characters to the demands of the plot.

Did I mention there are dragons?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on June 14, 2012, 04:10:13 PM
I am working my way through Campbell's Lost Fleet books, having just finished the 3rd one in the series. So far I am really enjoying them. I am also reading the 2nd book in Mercedes Lackey's Secret World Chronicle which details the struggle between a diverse group of present day metas (superheroes) and mysterious invaders that include armoured Nazi troopers. Good stuff!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 14, 2012, 04:15:50 PM
Is that Mercedes Lackey book part of a series with many authors, or am I thinking of a different series? Something about Aces and Jokers, maybe?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on June 14, 2012, 05:13:32 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on June 14, 2012, 04:15:50 PM
Is that Mercedes Lackey book part of a series with many authors, or am I thinking of a different series? Something about Aces and Jokers, maybe?

You are thinking about RR Martin's Wildcards series of books. This is different, although both deal with superheroes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 23, 2012, 05:36:32 PM
Anyone read Destroyermen? 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on June 29, 2012, 07:42:14 AM
My parents are visiting this weekend and my dad brought me Into the Storm - A Study in Command by Tom Clancy w/ General Fred Franks Jr.  Any of you know if its worth a read?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on June 30, 2012, 11:54:16 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 23, 2012, 05:36:32 PM
Anyone read Destroyermen?

Yes, I read the first 3 books in the series and really enjoyed them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 04, 2012, 04:45:30 PM
I'm reading The Battle of Midway by Craig Symonds and really enjoying it.  It's light reading but there's a lot of interesting info in there that I wasn't previously aware of.

Now I just have to find a Midway game for PC that doesn't suck.  I've been eyeing up HPS's Midway but I'm not really a fan of Tiller's other games.  Anyone recommend it?  I'm more interested in the pre-contact search aspect than the nitty gritty of the battle itself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 04, 2012, 05:06:08 PM
Not about Midway as such but a bit broader in scope- If you can find it: Task Force 1942 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Task_Force_1942). It seems to get better reviews now than when it was first released. The same game engine was used in 1942 Pacific Air War (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1942:_The_Pacific_Air_War) for the strategic portion of the sim.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mobygames.com%2Fimages%2Fshots%2Fl%2F1860-task-force-1942-dos-screenshot-create-air-searchs.gif&hash=238e2ebf3a78c6b52f6cd6e212e4534b62976ae0)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 04, 2012, 05:37:35 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 04, 2012, 04:45:30 PM
I'm reading The Battle of Midway by Craig Symonds and really enjoying it.  It's light reading but there's a lot of interesting info in there that I wasn't previously aware of.

Now I just have to find a Midway game for PC that doesn't suck.  I've been eyeing up HPS's Midway but I'm not really a fan of Tiller's other games.  Anyone recommend it?  I'm more interested in the pre-contact search aspect than the nitty gritty of the battle itself.

I'd recommend the original Complete Carriers At War if you can find a copy. I think NWS Online may have it in stock. It's an older game, but it will run on Windows XP without an emulator. Pre-contact search is major part of the game and a lot of fun really.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 04, 2012, 05:39:31 PM
I'm looking for something current that I don't have to use DOSBox for.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 04, 2012, 05:44:26 PM
You mean Win 7 current? If so, go with JTs Midway. It's supposed to be pretty good. I have it but haven't played it yet (part of my multi-year backlog).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 17, 2012, 09:15:19 AM
Finally finished Descent of Angels last night.  [book 6 of the Horus Heresy series]

I liked this book but felt that it ended abruptly.  Fortunately I read Fall of Angels out of sequence with this series so I do know what "happens next" but for those who are reading the series in chronological order, they may be left with more to be desired.  Put Descent of Angels into context with the big picture and you'll be fine though.


Now onto Legion!


P.S.  The more of the Horus Heresy series I read, the more I realize that the Star Wars story blows chunks badly.  Star Wars was created by a drunken three year old who has no control over his temper tantrums.  The WH40K universe is a masterpiece created by many brilliant story tellers.  Ok?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 17, 2012, 09:44:16 AM
I've got a new book coming from Black Library on the Adeptus Mechanicum! I haven't read anything in WH40K since last year's Space Wolves. Psyched. I also have to read Abnett's Titanicus...don't know if I can be disciplined enough to read that first and then move on to the new title. I also have the Gothic War books to read. Might read those while playing Endless Space or Legends of Pegasus, since I cannot find a good WH40K capital ship mod out there.

BTW the name of the new title is Priests of Mars. It appears to be a standalone title and includes archaeological and historical WH40K plotlines.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 17, 2012, 10:32:52 AM
I envy you Gus.  Those all sound like great books.  I really want to read Adeptus Mechanicum but so far I have disciplined myself to sticking to the Heresy for now.  Once I get to book ten however, I believe that is where the Adeptus Mechanicum steps in.

Abnett is probably the best of all the WH40K authors so you probably won't be disappointed with Titanicus.  So many books, computer games, console games, and beer to drink, but so little time.  So damn little time...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 17, 2012, 10:39:08 AM
^It's the time and the inability to multitask that really gets me.

The historian in me wants to read Titanicus first to get a good back story for Priests of Mars but I am growing a little impatient.

Oh I also picked up the Warhammer omnibus Vampire Wars to read while playing Warlock.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 01:19:27 PM
Currently I'm reading Wrath of Iron by Chris Wright.  Its a WH: 40K battle book about an invasion of a traitor world led by a force of Iron Hands Space Marines.  It's pretty good so far...the Iron Hands are a strange bunch of dudes, but they sure can kick some serious butt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 18, 2012, 01:24:57 PM
They were supposed to be one of the 'First Founding' Legions, if my 40K memory serves me right, and provided the cadre for several other chapters after the Heresy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 01:31:17 PM
Any of you guys read Titanicus?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on July 18, 2012, 01:35:33 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 01:31:17 PM
Any of you guys read Titanicus?

Yes. There's a review of mine on WG somewhere.

<looks around>

Found it. Ah, yes. Almost forgot about those days...too much LDS I suppose. That was when I was going by the nom de plume Scott Parrino: http://www.wargamer.com/article/2746/titanicus
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 01:45:59 PM
^Thanks. I am trying to decide whether to read Titanicus or Eisenhorn next.

And if you liked Titanicus you will like Priests of Mars, I think. It's just been released.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 18, 2012, 01:47:53 PM
Just started my yearly (re)reading of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings trilogy this morning. 

After that, will probably move onto my yearly reading of Asimov's Foundation series. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on July 18, 2012, 01:59:27 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 01:45:59 PM
^Thanks. I am trying to decide whether to read Titanicus or Eisenhorn next.

And if you liked Titanicus you will like Priests of Mars, I think. It's just been released.

Yeah, Priest of Mars sounds like a win.

Eisenhorn or Titanicus? Hmmm.

Titanicus is not terribly accessible (deliberately so). I'd go with Eisenhorn. It's freaking awesome. I was bummed when it ended. It could have gone on forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 02:04:45 PM
^Between Titanicus and Eisenhorn?  Its a no brainer.  I think I've told Gusington to read it at least 5 times over a period of just as many years.  I'm tired of being ignored.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 02:06:08 PM
Quote from: bob48 on July 18, 2012, 01:24:57 PM
They were supposed to be one of the 'First Founding' Legions, if my 40K memory serves me right, and provided the cadre for several other chapters after the Heresy.

The Iron Hands are one of the first 20 twenty chapters and their Primarch, Ferus Manus, was murdered by his brother Primarch Fulgrim during the opening phase of the Horus Heresy.  Most of the Iron Hands were slaughtered at the Isstvan Drop Site Massacre. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 02:09:59 PM
Eisenhorn it is! SoM loves it too IIRC. And that means I can crack open all the DoW II PC games too. I will save Titanicus and Priests of Mars for a special occasion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on July 18, 2012, 02:14:04 PM
is eisenhorn the book about the inquisition - there is a 'trilogy' omnibus on amazon and i have a gift voucher to spend - just want to make sure ive got the right book
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on July 18, 2012, 02:15:47 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on July 18, 2012, 02:14:04 PM
is eisenhorn the book about the inquisition - there is a 'trilogy' omnibus on amazon and i have a gift voucher to spend - just want to make sure ive got the right book

That's it - the trilogy.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1844161560/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1844161560&linkCode=as2&tag=grogheads-20
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 02:24:59 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on July 18, 2012, 02:14:04 PM
is eisenhorn the book about the inquisition - there is a 'trilogy' omnibus on amazon and i have a gift voucher to spend - just want to make sure ive got the right book

There are two trilogies about the inquisition.  One is Eisenhorn...the other is called The Inquisition Wars.  This one follows the exploits of Inquisitor Jaq Draco.  It is in my opinion just as good, if not better than the Eisenhorn trilogy. That being said, either series constitutes some of the best warhammer 40K writing out there and you simply can't go wrong with reading either one or both.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 18, 2012, 02:48:48 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 02:06:08 PM
The Iron Hands are one of the first 20 twenty chapters and their Primarch, Ferus Manus, was murdered by his brother Primarch Fulgrim during the opening phase of the Horus Heresy. 

I cried when I read that part in the book.  It was tragic and I felt sorrow for both actually.  Fulgrim never really wanted to do what he did, but the powers of Chaos proved too much for him to fight off.


Quote from: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 02:06:08 PM
Most of the Iron Hands were slaughtered at the Isstvan Drop Site Massacre.

Ah the Isstvan massacre.  When I first heard about this battle I thought it referred to the sadistic killing of a planets entire civilian population.  Awful enough, but what really made me cry was the discarding of Loken and other good Space Marines after the virus bombs dropped.  To see good men like that betrayed was an outrage.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 03:14:53 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on July 18, 2012, 02:48:48 PM
Awful enough, but what really made me cry was the discarding of Loken and other good Space Marines after the virus bombs dropped.  To see good men like that betrayed was an outrage.

Yes.  I was equally moved by these acts of betrayal.  However, you are aware of the fact that Garviel Loken did, in fact, survive the Drop Site Massacre and lived throughout the war on Isstvan III as a "Legion of One?"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 18, 2012, 03:36:43 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on July 18, 2012, 03:14:53 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on July 18, 2012, 02:48:48 PM
Awful enough, but what really made me cry was the discarding of Loken and other good Space Marines after the virus bombs dropped.  To see good men like that betrayed was an outrage.

Yes.  I was equally moved by these acts of betrayal.  However, you are aware of the fact that Garviel Loken did, in fact, survive the Drop Site Massacre and lived throughout the war on Isstvan III as a "Legion of One?"

Funny you ask that.  I really like Loken so much that I cheated and wiki'ed him to see what his fate was.  I just wanted to know some more details on how he died.  Turns out I was wrong and that he did indeed survive.  But being a "Legion of One", now that I didn't know.  Never knew he had it in him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on July 18, 2012, 03:40:14 PM
didnt know that either - i always consider it a great testament to the author when fiction can stir emotions that much - i was speechless and gobsmacked at the description of the virus bombs dropping
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 07:54:53 PM
For the guys who have read a lot of WH40K...does it start to get repetitive after a while or are the new releases routinely fresh?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 18, 2012, 07:59:05 PM
I am currently reading American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House (http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/jacketcopy/2009/04/jon-meacham-takes-pulitzer-prize-for-biography-.html) by Jon Meacham.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on July 18, 2012, 07:59:18 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 07:54:53 PM
For the guys who have read a lot of WH40K...does it start to get repetitive after a while or are the new releases routinely fresh?

Hard to say.

I am kinda burned out, but it could just be I'm waiting for another great book.

The Ciaphas Cain series is great for the first two omnibi but I'm not loving this latest set for some reason. Good, just not great.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 18, 2012, 08:06:20 PM
I suppose like anything, WH40K can get to be a bit much after the 10th title, especially if they are all uber-violent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 19, 2012, 08:04:20 AM
^It's not so much that they're uber violent.  There is no sensationalist wanton violence.  What is riveting however is the author's ability to describe the horrors of war, even if it's confined to the view of an individual soldier or soldiers.  I have to agree with undercovergeek's statement about the testament to the authors and their ability to stir up emotion.  I'm talking only from the Horus Heresy series though as I have not read anything else Warhammer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2012, 08:39:44 AM
^You need to read some Space Wolves. They were my entry point last summer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on July 19, 2012, 09:54:44 AM
I just finished Cain at Gettysburg by Ralph Peters.  I have to say I really enjoyed it.  It's not quite up to the gold standard of The Killer Angels as far as novels go, but it is more faithful to the history I believe.  Also, the book avoids most of the characters and events that appear in The Killer Angles to take you to other parts of the battle.  For example, Lee is more of a minor character in this book whereas Meade is the central figure.  I've always felt Meade is one of the most underestimated generals of the ACW so I really enjoyed a book written with his actions and perspectives in minf finally.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 19, 2012, 12:43:14 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 19, 2012, 08:39:44 AM
^You need to read some Space Wolves. They were my entry point last summer.

I'll have to check that out.   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 01:00:56 PM
I just finished a really good sci/fi trilogy by John Scalzi, "Old Man's War", "Ghost Brigades", and "The Last Colony". Some well thought out concepts, good characters and a plot that moves right along. "The Last Colony" took an interesting turn and had a very satisfying ending, and all three books are highly rated on Amazon by readers. Well worth a read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 19, 2012, 01:04:16 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 01:00:56 PM
I just finished a really good sci/fi trilogy by John Scalzi, "Old Man's War", "Ghost Brigades", and "The Last Colony". Some solid concepts fleshed out by good characters and a plot that moves right along. "The Last Colony" took an interesting turn and had a very satisfying ending. Well worth a read.

I read Old Man's War recently. I liked it a lot. It reminded me of two particular milscifi classics (no spoilers) merged together. The next book is on my short list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 01:42:16 PM
^It was indeed inspired by those unnamed books you are talking about, but I think Scalzi managed to go in some unanticipated directions. Be sure and read the third book as well. It ties the series together very nicely.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 19, 2012, 04:55:56 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 01:42:16 PM
^It was indeed inspired by those unnamed books you are talking about, but I think Scalzi managed to go in some unanticipated directions. Be sure and read the third book as well. It ties the series together very nicely.

Reading assignment accepted.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 19, 2012, 07:44:50 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 01:42:16 PM
^It was indeed inspired by those unnamed books you are talking about, but I think Scalzi managed to go in some unanticipated directions. Be sure and read the third book as well. It ties the series together very nicely.

Looks like there's a fourth book that takes place at the same time as the third: Zoe's War (http://www.amazon.com/Zoes-Tale/dp/033050603X/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1342744922&sr=1-12)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 09:28:55 PM
^Yes and no....from the review's I've read, Zoe's War is a retelling of the third book from her perspective. I haven't decided if that interests me enough to pick it up or not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on July 20, 2012, 07:34:40 AM
This week graphic novels from the library. 

Northlanders Book 4 was excellent, plan to follow the rest of this series.

Preacher: Salvation - great art but didn't care much for the story line... Might have been cutting edge in the 1990's
but just seemed lame now days when compared with modern realistic crime comics like Scalped.

Onward towards our noble deaths - manga book of Imperial Japanese Army in World War 2.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 20, 2012, 09:13:38 AM
^How is that last one?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on July 20, 2012, 10:42:21 AM
Great point about the graphic novels, Eyebiter.

I read the first 48 Walking Dead in their anthology over the weekend.

Man, that was a trip.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on July 20, 2012, 10:56:54 AM
Quote from: LongBlade on July 20, 2012, 10:42:21 AM
Great point about the graphic novels, Eyebiter.

I read the first 48 Walking Dead in their anthology over the weekend.

Man, that was a trip.

I did the same thing, but it was like 35 or so at the time. I'm glad that the TV version doesn't mirror the events in the comics exactly, means that you can enjoy both without knowing for sure what might happen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: meadbelly on July 20, 2012, 08:58:02 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 09:28:55 PM
^Yes and no....from the review's I've read, Zoe's War is a retelling of the third book from her perspective. I haven't decided if that interests me enough to pick it up or not.

In my opinion, Zoe's Tale is the best of the series. For all of Scalzi's strengths, I think he is best capturing a somewhat immature voice. His ability to put the reader into the mind of a precocious teen girl is makes the previous three seem somewhat shallow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on July 20, 2012, 09:09:11 PM
Quote from: meadbelly on July 20, 2012, 08:58:02 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 09:28:55 PM
^Yes and no....from the review's I've read, Zoe's War is a retelling of the third book from her perspective. I haven't decided if that interests me enough to pick it up or not.

In my opinion, Zoe's Tale is the best of the series. For all of Scalzi's strengths, I think he is best capturing a somewhat immature voice. His ability to put the reader into the mind of a precocious teen girl is makes the previous three seem somewhat shallow.
Really? I think you just talked me into a trip to Amazon.....dotcom, that is......

I did think that the female protagonist in Ghost Brigades (so as to not give away the storyline) was well done, with her struggles about who and what she was. That continued nicely into The Lost Colony. Gotta give Scalzi his dues, not the best writer ever but four solid books under his belt. Not bad. Thanks for the feedback  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: meadbelly on July 20, 2012, 09:31:59 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on July 20, 2012, 09:09:11 PM
Quote from: meadbelly on July 20, 2012, 08:58:02 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on July 19, 2012, 09:28:55 PM
^Yes and no....from the review's I've read, Zoe's War is a retelling of the third book from her perspective. I haven't decided if that interests me enough to pick it up or not.

In my opinion, Zoe's Tale is the best of the series. For all of Scalzi's strengths, I think he is best capturing a somewhat immature voice. His ability to put the reader into the mind of a precocious teen girl is makes the previous three seem somewhat shallow.
Really? I think you just talked me into a trip to Amazon.....dotcom, that is......

I did think that the female protagonist in Ghost Brigades (so as to not give away the storyline) was well done, with her struggles about who and what she was. That continued nicely into The Lost Colony. Gotta give Scalzi his dues, not the best writer ever but four solid books under his belt. Not bad. Thanks for the feedback  :)

That's a good point re: female protagonist. Scalzi mentions in an author's note in Zoe's Tale that he pushed himself to capture Zoe right. I wonder if the bit of extra effort to accurately depict the fairer sex sharpens his skills a bit.

Right back at ya on feedback. I'm early into Ambercrombie's The Heroes thanks to your (and nefaro's? martok's?) recommendations on the wargamer. Hope to get deeper in this weekend.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on July 21, 2012, 08:34:03 AM
Quote from: Gusington on July 20, 2012, 09:13:38 AM
^How is that last one?

Onward Towards our Noble Deaths is excellent, the author Shigeru Mizuki was stationed at Rabul during 1943.  Unusual drawing style where the character faces are cartoonish but the uniforms, equipment, and backgrounds are all very realistic. 

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tcj.com%2F2011%2F06%2FONWARDpg343.jpg&hash=88273f4ce75bbc76ffa38bfe3ebee6332195ce87)

From looking on google apparently it won an Eisner award at Comic Con 2012.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 21, 2012, 09:31:48 AM
^I dig that sample. You've piqued my interest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 26, 2012, 05:39:09 AM
I am Legend by Richard Matheson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 26, 2012, 08:58:28 AM
Almost halfway through The Fellowship of the Ring.  The four hobbits have just arrived at Bree. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 26, 2012, 09:07:11 AM
Greybriar what do you think of I Am Legend? I read it about 20 years ago and it has remained one of my favorite books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 26, 2012, 10:12:33 AM
Quote from: Martok on July 26, 2012, 08:58:28 AM
Almost halfway through The Fellowship of the Ring.  The four hobbits have just arrived at Bree.

Ah, the Prancing Pony. Makes me want to start reading it again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on July 26, 2012, 11:15:28 AM
I am approaching the last fifth of Walter J. Boyne's Clash of Wings.

It is perhaps the best single-volume read on WWII that I have yet found. Focused more on the air war than on the ground way, it is still an amazingly great and easy read about WWII. Absolutely phenomenal.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Grimnirsson on July 26, 2012, 11:36:46 AM
I'm in the end part of Descent of Angels, one of the Horus Heresy Warhammer books - just love these novels  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 26, 2012, 12:33:40 PM
^Grimnirsson I just finished that book a couple of weeks ago.  I agree, I love the series too!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on July 26, 2012, 01:42:26 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 26, 2012, 05:39:09 AM
I am Legend by Richard Matheson.

Great story. The movie would have been so much better if they had stayed with the original storyline.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 26, 2012, 01:57:57 PM
Just started 'Panzers in Normandy' by S.W.Mitcham, although the book is really centred around Gen Hans Eberbach and his conduct in the campaign. Interesting read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 26, 2012, 01:58:26 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 26, 2012, 09:07:11 AM
Greybriar what do you think of I Am Legend? I read it about 20 years ago and it has remained one of my favorite books.

Like Shelldrake posted, it's a great story. The short stories included are excellent as well--I remember watching the screen version of Prey on The Twilight Zone many years ago.  I liked the book so well that I plan on reading Noir next. Noir (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/noir-richard-matheson/1100214060?ean=9780765311405) is a trilogy consisting of Someone Is Bleeding, Fury on Sunday, and Ride the Nightmare.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 26, 2012, 09:07:54 PM
Wow I never even heard of Noir...thanks GB.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 26, 2012, 11:46:34 PM
You're welcome, Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on July 27, 2012, 05:08:11 PM
Three new books to read this weekend

First clash : combat close-up in World War Three

The U-boat century : German submarine warfare, 1906-2006

Zombies are us : essays on the humanity of the walking dead

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 27, 2012, 06:15:10 PM
Quote from: eyebiter on July 27, 2012, 05:08:11 PM

The U-boat century : German submarine warfare, 1906-2006 (!)


You tellin' me there are still Type XXI Elektrobooten prowling around the sealanes? Someone should get one of those Enigma machines out of a museum and send 'em a flash about VE Day...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2012, 12:25:32 PM
^That sub title sounds awesome. I also didn't know the Germans still have some subs out there. Crafty SOBs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on July 28, 2012, 04:01:37 PM
QuoteFirst clash : combat close-up in World War Three

IIRC that one focuses on the Canadians?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on July 29, 2012, 07:48:43 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on July 28, 2012, 04:01:37 PM
QuoteFirst clash : combat close-up in World War Three

IIRC that one focuses on the Canadians?

And really hard to find! Where did you manage to score a copy eyebiter?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 29, 2012, 09:16:20 AM
IIRC, last time this title came up in conversation Amazon or it's affiliates had some in stock (http://www.amazon.com/First-clash-Combat-close-up-World/dp/0853687366). Some as low as fifty cents US!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on July 29, 2012, 11:58:45 AM
i still have my original.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on July 29, 2012, 03:27:13 PM
re: First Clash
Found at local university library.  4 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group in World War III.  "...mobile defense against a Soviet Tank Division in the European setting, the summer circa 1984"

re: Uboat Century
The focus of the book is German WWI & WWII submarines.  However there is a chapter 'The Modern German Navy' covers Cold War era submarines.  A few small experiment boats in the 1950s, then the Germans started to develop advanced diesel/ electric coastal submarines again in the 1960s. 

Did not realize the German Type 206 submarines have been decomissioned and replaced by the 212 class.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_212_submarine
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 29, 2012, 03:35:54 PM
Quote from: eyebiter on July 29, 2012, 03:27:13 PM

Did not realize the German Type 206 submarines have been decomissioned and replaced by the 212 class.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_212_submarine

From Wiki:
QuoteThe submarine can operate at high speed on diesel power or switch to the AIP system for silent slow cruising, staying submerged for up to three weeks without surfacing and with no exhaust heat. The system is also said to be vibration-free, extremely quiet and virtually undetectable.

Hot Damn! Are you Canadians reading this? I told you guys already- German engineering is the way to go!  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on July 29, 2012, 04:37:02 PM
Germany is where Israel gets all their current subs from.

oh sweet irony.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Grimnirsson on July 31, 2012, 01:24:50 PM
There was a time when we had plenty of opportunities to test subs - I expect them to be great now  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bismarck on August 01, 2012, 12:30:06 PM
Snooks "Into the Jaws of Death - British Military Blunders 1879 - 1900.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on August 03, 2012, 02:01:24 PM
Picked up "The SS Brotherhood of the Bell" by Joseph P. Farrell at the library. One of the those "we were this close to the Nazi's taking over the world" books. "UFOs are not from outer space, they are from Nazi Germany."

Should be interesting to say the least.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on August 04, 2012, 12:20:48 AM
www.rzm.com   sorry for your wallets.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 12, 2012, 09:36:19 AM
Just started The Return of the King.  I'm already a little sad I'm coming to the end of my annual reading of this wonderful series so soon. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bismarck on August 12, 2012, 11:33:43 AM
Snooks'  Into the Jaws of Defeat: British Military Blunders 1879-1900
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2012, 12:31:19 PM
^Sounds like another solid read and sort of related to what I am reading now...The Battle of Adwa (Italian defeat in Ethiopia) by Raymond Jonas. I'm going to be writing a review of it for GH soon, it is one of the better books I've read in the last few years.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bismarck on August 12, 2012, 01:15:10 PM
Nice tip.  Thanks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2012, 01:58:20 PM
^Yes sir. From your last few posts I think you would enjoy the Adwa book a lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bismarck on August 12, 2012, 02:18:21 PM
Just ordered it and got the Osprey book on the armies involved for my Kindle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2012, 07:19:49 PM
^Post your impressions when you can. I just finished the chapter on Italian Askari troops and it was great reading...for a grog, anyway.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on September 04, 2012, 08:49:50 AM
Just finished reading Legion by Dan Abnett, the 7th book in the Horus Heresy series.  This book introduces us to the Alpha Legion, one of the most secretive of all the Astartes legions.  It is set 2 years before the Horus Heresy.  In my opinion it starts off kind of slow but starts to pick up steam around the 200 page mark.  After that the story begins to develop at a rapid pace and when the reader realizes where it is heading the book can't be put down.

I was left speechless after reading the final 3 or 4 chapters.  Where on earth is mankind heading and why did Horus have to betray the galaxy?  Legion does a great job describing how damning the whole Heresy really is. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jack Nastyface on September 04, 2012, 06:50:31 PM
Just finished "The Junior Officers Reading Club" which is a brilliant account of one British officer's experience at Sandhurst, Iraq and Afghanistan.  Intellectual, witty, irreverant, insightful, harrowing, and hip - this is what going to war looks like for the iPod generation.

Also working through Sieze the Fire, a good but admittedly jingoist (and adoringly, embarrasingly Nelson-ophillic) account of the Battle of Trafalgar.  FWIW, I don't necessarily agree that Nelson was "...the greatest naval commander, ever" (considering he only fought two battles in the open sea) but the author's research more than makes up for the bias.

Jack Nastyface
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 04, 2012, 08:23:45 PM
I am currently reading Saint Camber by Katherine Kurtz. It is the second book in The Legends of Camber of Culdi trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 04, 2012, 08:26:12 PM
I am reading The Pale Blue Eye by Louis Bayard. It is a murder mystery set at West Point in 1830, featuring Edgar Allan Poe as a main character.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on September 05, 2012, 05:52:14 AM
Wet Grave, by Barbara Hambly.
Murder mystery set in 1830s New Orleans.  Can highly recommend anything by Hambly.  She is a superb writer of many genres.
If you like fantasy, try her Dragon's Bane.  Considering the dreck that most fantasy movies have for a plot, someone should adapt this for the screen, or for a multinight television show.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 17, 2012, 01:03:52 AM
I finished two books today.

First was Red Army, which I mentioned in the WW3 thread.  The other is The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay.  It was very, very good- two thumbs up, and I highly recommend it.  It's kind of a fantasy historical fantasy- the world is not real but it is essentially based on medieval Spain (Iberia?) and the holy wars that took place there. 

I have three other books queued up right now: Musashi, which I read about half of a couple of years ago so I'll need to start anew (and it's a very very long book); Fire in the East, book one of the Warriors of Rome series; and Under Heaven by Guy Gavriel Kay, set in 9th century China.  I'm leaning towards the Rome book I think.

Honestly, though, I don't think I can go wrong with any of those choices.  Just like my gaming, I need more time to read!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on September 17, 2012, 06:50:17 AM
Sniper Ace: From the Eastern Front to Siberia
Lithuanian is drafted into the Wehrmacht in 1943, sent to the Russian Front.  After the war gets sent to a forced labor camp in Siberia.  Ends up trapped in the Soviet Union gulag for over fifty years.


The Arnheiter Affair  - The USS Vance (DE-387) gets a new Captain in Dec 1965, right before the ship deploys to the coast of Vietnam.  During the voyage the crew compiles a long list of complaints about the Captain's behavior and judgement.  After a three month patrol the vessel returns to the Philippines for refit, Arnheiter is removed from command.

Notice the USS Vance crew have a reunion later this year in New Orleans.  Would be interesting to ask around to find out the real story.  Still wondering how much of this account was Vietnam era anti-war BS or if this guy was a real life Captain Queeg.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 17, 2012, 06:50:59 AM
I read Fire in the East and loved it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bismarck on September 17, 2012, 09:21:00 AM
Battle by John Lynn (about war and culture)
The Line on the Wind: Royal Navy 1793 to 1815
Fuentes des Orono Portugal 1811
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 17, 2012, 11:39:33 AM
Steel Fist - Tank Warfare 1939 - 1945
by Nigel Cawthorne

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on September 17, 2012, 04:07:06 PM
Iron Kingdom : The Rise and Downfall of Prussia 1600-1947 by Christopher Clark
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on September 17, 2012, 06:26:57 PM
No Easy Day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 17, 2012, 06:53:59 PM
Ravenor Omnibus, Steve Jobs bio (someone gave it to me, actually quite interesting), Myst Reader (you in the back, do I make fun of your books?!) and I just finished a bunch of John Scalzi stories on my ancient but still working Kindle 2. I have some Tank books on order (one overdue >:() and I'm going to try to peruse the L&L v3 rulebook (thank you Barthheart!).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on September 17, 2012, 07:59:49 PM
Ivan's War. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312426526/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0312426526&linkCode=as2&tag=grogheads-20
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 18, 2012, 06:54:27 AM
Arctic how are you liking Iron Kingdom?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 18, 2012, 12:33:05 PM
Am just about halfway through Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson. 

I'm liking it so far.  The pacing is much better in this one than in his Mistborn trilogy (although I still very much enjoyed those books as well).  I wonder if Sanderson does better with standalone novels. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 18, 2012, 01:00:57 PM
I'm half way through the second book in the 'Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' trilogy. I admit I'm quite enjoying them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on September 18, 2012, 01:49:40 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 18, 2012, 06:54:27 AM
Arctic how are you liking Iron Kingdom?

So far, it's pretty decent. It does seem to spend a lot of time rattling off the names of every single person involved with something, often unnecessarily. And it REALLY goes in to minutia from time to time. But overall, it's good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 18, 2012, 03:53:45 PM
Quote from: bob48 on September 18, 2012, 01:00:57 PM
I'm half way through the second book in the 'Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' trilogy. I admit I'm quite enjoying them.

+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 18, 2012, 08:14:58 PM
Arctic try The Vanished Kingdom if you haven't already. Borderline fascist/romantic...but a good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on September 18, 2012, 09:06:36 PM
Quote from: Windigo on September 18, 2012, 03:53:45 PM
Quote from: bob48 on September 18, 2012, 01:00:57 PM
I'm half way through the second book in the 'Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' trilogy. I admit I'm quite enjoying them.

+1

FWIW Azz told me that was one of the best movies Evah.

<shrug>

I've never read it so I don't know what that might say about him. But I have heard they're good books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on September 19, 2012, 04:53:12 AM
watched the film on a plane not expecting anything much but was pleasantly surprised - very enjoyable
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on September 19, 2012, 12:10:15 PM
^I'm curious, which version did you see?  The English or Swedish version of the film?  Both are good, but I found the Swedish version to be a bit more grisly in it's depiction of the murders.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 19, 2012, 12:50:28 PM
I've not seen any of the films, but the books are quite riveting, and so far, as I get near to the end of the second book, the tension has not diminished at all. Not usually my choice of reading matter, but I have found a lot of entertainment value in them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on September 19, 2012, 01:05:49 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on September 19, 2012, 12:10:15 PM
^I'm curious, which version did you see?  The English or Swedish version of the film?  Both are good, but I found the Swedish version to be a bit more grisly in it's depiction of the murders.

the english one with Daniel Craig

i liked the 'rapist' revenge scene
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on September 19, 2012, 03:55:12 PM
Reading Midst Toil and Tribulation by David Weber.  Book 6 in his Safehold series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on September 19, 2012, 04:09:54 PM
Priests of Mars arrived today. Can't wait to crack it later tonight.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1849701768/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1849701768&linkCode=as2&tag=grogheads-20
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 19, 2012, 05:36:15 PM
^O SNAP. I have that waiting on my WH40K shelf. But I have to read Titanicus before that. And Eisenhorn. And Vampire Wars in the regular WH universe :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on September 19, 2012, 07:42:03 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 19, 2012, 05:36:15 PM
^O SNAP. I have that waiting on my WH40K shelf. But I have to read Titanicus before that. And Eisenhorn. And Vampire Wars in the regular WH universe :)

Vampire Wars is likely to be a letdown. Just when it starts to get interesting you get reminded that they are vampires, and they are bad guys. There's also some drier history woven in there to get the "facts" laid out - more pro-forma than interesting tale.

Read the Ulrika the Vampire series for a more enjoyable tale.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 19, 2012, 07:50:17 PM
I remember you mentioning that when I picked the book up. But Vampire Wars looked more interesting in the description for me. And to be honest a fictional history of vampire wars...sounds awesome, even if dry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on September 19, 2012, 08:13:16 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 19, 2012, 07:50:17 PM
I remember you mentioning that when I picked the book up. But Vampire Wars looked more interesting in the description for me. And to be honest a fictional history of vampire wars...sounds awesome, even if dry.

It has its moments. I didn't hate it and I will stop reading a book if I lose interest.

Just be prepared - about the time you're cheering the vampire army storming the castle walls...you'll be reminded why that's a Bad IdeaTM
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on September 20, 2012, 03:26:28 AM
finally got round to ordering Eisenhorn, and Battle for the Abyss - my next Horus Heresy book
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on September 20, 2012, 08:19:08 AM
^When you start reading Battle for the Abyss let me know what you think.  I'm about half way through it now and it's good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bismarck on September 22, 2012, 04:27:29 PM
Lynn's Battle and MacPherson's excellent War on the Water
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 01, 2012, 04:00:57 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on September 20, 2012, 08:19:08 AM
^When you start reading Battle for the Abyss let me know what you think.  I'm about half way through it now and it's good.

Just finished the first epic space battle with the abyss and the hastily built intercept fleet.... Excellent description of a space battle, couldn't put it down til the fight concluded!

Interesting, knowing as I do that the thousand sons and the world eaters turn what's going to happen with the small numbers of each chapter all allied to the ultramarines tiny group
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on October 01, 2012, 09:47:48 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 01, 2012, 04:00:57 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on September 20, 2012, 08:19:08 AM
^When you start reading Battle for the Abyss let me know what you think.  I'm about half way through it now and it's good.

Just finished the first epic space battle with the abyss and the hastily built intercept fleet.... Excellent description of a space battle, couldn't put it down til the fight concluded!

Interesting, knowing as I do that the thousand sons and the world eaters turn what's going to happen with the small numbers of each chapter all allied to the ultramarines tiny group

Yeah I couldn't put the book down either during that first fight.  I really felt bad for how that turned out but Cestus is an honorable Ultramarine.  Wait until you get further along.  The description of the next battle that takes place after that space combat scene is really good too.  I'm about 150 pages away from finishing the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 02, 2012, 02:14:28 AM
I've been taking a break from spy stuff and reading through two Cthulhu mythos trilogies from Fantasy Flight Games.  Both trilogies bear the Arkham Horror moniker and both do reference some charaters and locations from the board game.  The first is called the Dark Waters trilogy.  The first book, Ghouls of the Miskatonic, was quite enjoyable.  I wasn't expecting much from a novel published by a game company and related to one of their products but I was pleasantly surprised.   It was rather well written and had an engaging story.

The 2nd book, Bones of the Yopasi, was just released so I grabbed it for the Kindle this week.  I've only finished the first chapter but again, I'm surprised at the quality of the writing so far.

The second trilogy, The Lord of Nightmares, was also decent, but I think I prefer the Dark Waters books.  Dark Waters seems a bit more low key wheras Lord of Nightmares has big name mythos elder gods and inter-dimensional gates and whatnot.  I guess I prefer my horror a little more subdued and grounded.  Just a matter of taste.  Again, only the first two books of the trilogy have been released so far.

http://www.amazon.com/Arkham-Horror-Yopasi-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B008ZPZ3MC/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1349162102&sr=1-1&keywords=bones+of+the+yopasi (http://www.amazon.com/Arkham-Horror-Yopasi-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B008ZPZ3MC/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1349162102&sr=1-1&keywords=bones+of+the+yopasi)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 02, 2012, 01:36:24 PM
Blasted through the Deadlands Reloaded Marshall's Handbook. Good grief does that system sound like a lot of fun. Must...run...a...game...!

Next up will be The Rise of Rome by Anthony Everitt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on October 02, 2012, 02:09:42 PM
^Sounds like you're trying to get in the mood for some Alea Jacta Est there Arctic.  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 02, 2012, 11:48:02 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on October 02, 2012, 02:09:42 PM
^Sounds like you're trying to get in the mood for some Alea Jacta Est there Arctic.  :)

I'll probably pick that up at some point. But no, this is more of the 'Arctic tries to gain a basic understanding of history' project.

Incidentally, once I'm finished this that will be 50 books so far this year.  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 03, 2012, 12:31:23 AM
I need some good space opera!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on October 05, 2012, 11:05:02 AM
I picked up "Saucer" by Steven Coonts at a flea market. It had some mixed reviews but it looks right up my quirky alley.

Still working through the Foundation trilogy. Good stuff. I've heard the term "retro sci-fi". Foundation really fits that bill.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on October 06, 2012, 08:56:02 PM
I'm finally reading Starship Troopers by Robert Heinlein.  Its been on my 'todo' list for years.  I'm about 3/4 through it and I've been jotting down quotes left and right.  As a teacher, my favorite so far has to be "One can lead a child to knowledge, but one cannot make him think"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 07, 2012, 04:58:08 PM
Arctic, if you'd like to know a little more about military history, try CWC Oman's Art of WAr in the Middle Ages.
It's pretty old right now, probably written a hundred years ago, but is still a great read.  He doesn't give you everything about a war, or a type of soldier, but touches on what he considers really important things to understand.
He expanded his original one volume work to two volumes, and I'd highly recommend reading this version. 
If you like military history, it is a good read that rarely drags.  You can usually get it via inter library loan.  Pretty certain it is still in print in England, but the chance of finding it for sale here, is almost nil, unless you have a great used book shop.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 07, 2012, 10:44:43 PM
Quote from: besilarius on October 07, 2012, 04:58:08 PM
Arctic, if you'd like to know a little more about military history, try CWC Oman's Art of WAr in the Middle Ages.
It's pretty old right now, probably written a hundred years ago, but is still a great read.  He doesn't give you everything about a war, or a type of soldier, but touches on what he considers really important things to understand.
He expanded his original one volume work to two volumes, and I'd highly recommend reading this version. 
If you like military history, it is a good read that rarely drags.  You can usually get it via inter library loan.  Pretty certain it is still in print in England, but the chance of finding it for sale here, is almost nil, unless you have a great used book shop.

Thanks for the tip. I'll see if I can find it anywhere around these parts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 09, 2012, 06:33:53 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on September 20, 2012, 08:19:08 AM
^When you start reading Battle for the Abyss let me know what you think.  I'm about half way through it now and it's good.

wow!! just finished, it could be my favourite so far - relentless from page 1 to the end - a great read..............

Mechanicum next, i see your avatar by the way!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on October 10, 2012, 06:42:28 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 09, 2012, 06:33:53 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on September 20, 2012, 08:19:08 AM
^When you start reading Battle for the Abyss let me know what you think.  I'm about half way through it now and it's good.

wow!! just finished, it could be my favourite so far - relentless from page 1 to the end - a great read..............

Mechanicum next, i see your avatar by the way!

Yeah!!  Battle for the Abyss was definitely relentless from beginning to end.  What a spectacular ending!  I'm glad you enjoyed it as much as I did.  I'm so ready for Mechanicum as you can see but this XCOM: Enemy Unknown game I started playing last night is taking over my life!  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 14, 2012, 06:12:10 PM
I just bought Bernard Cornwell's 1356 for the Kindle.  It's the 4th in his series about an English longbowman fighting in the Hundred Years' War.

It's been so long since I read the last one (2003) that I don't remember much.  I think I might start over from book 1.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 15, 2012, 01:10:05 AM
I'm working my way through two books right now.  First is The Deluge Vol. 1 by Henryk Sienkiewicz, a follow-up to the previous novel With Fire and Sword.  Once again, I'm finding it a very good book and a real page-turner.

Second up is The Simirillion by J.R.R. Tolkien.  It is much easier to read than I thought it was going to be, and the introduction (sort of a synopsis of the book) really fleshes out The Lord of the Rings.

The Deluge:  http://www.amazon.com/The-Deluge-Henryk-Sienkiewicz/dp/1148732896/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1350280717&sr=8-1&keywords=the+deluge+sienkiewicz

There is a free kindle version also (which I am reading).  With Fire and Sword is also free (and you should read it first if you're going to take on "The Trilogy".)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on October 15, 2012, 09:36:19 AM
I just picked up Ayn Rands 'Atlas Shrugged' but at over 1000 pages in teeny tiny print I have no idea when I'll finish it.  Especially since I'm trying to complete as many books in the Horus Heresy series before the end of the year.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 15, 2012, 11:13:02 PM
Toonces, hope you dig the Silmariliion.  LotR made so much sense with the entire history laid out behind it.

@Republic: My uncle says something similar, "You can lead Einstein to a chalkboard, but you can't make him think."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 27, 2012, 07:04:01 PM
Right now I'm reading A Crown in the Heather, book 1 of The Bruce Trilogy about the war between Scotland and England in the 13th/14th centuries.  I don't know too much about this part of history, so it's all new. 

The book got sort of mixed reviews on Amazon, but Book 1 was only $0.99 so I figured it was worth the gamble.  I'm 22% done so far and it's interesting enough. 

There is also another Bruce Trilogy that is only in print.  I'm going to pick that version up soon as well.

A Crown in the Heather:  http://www.amazon.com/Crown-Heather-Bruce-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B003V5X9N6/ref=tmm_kin_title_0

I'm also working my way through The Deluge, Part 1 (of 2).  Pretty good, although it's just a long book no matter how you slice it.  I like the story, though.  It's free, so what's to complain about?

The Deluge:  http://www.amazon.com/Deluge-Historical-Poland-Russia-ebook/dp/B005JEE7T2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1351382618&sr=1-1&keywords=the+deluge+sienkiewicz

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 28, 2012, 01:11:41 AM
Eldritch Tales, an HP Lovecraft collection.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 28, 2012, 04:54:00 AM
Quote from: Toonces on October 27, 2012, 07:04:01 PM
Right now I'm reading A Crown in the Heather, book 1 of The Bruce Trilogy about the war between Scotland and England in the 13th/14th centuries.  I don't know too much about this part of history, so it's all new. 

The book got sort of mixed reviews on Amazon, but Book 1 was only $0.99 so I figured it was worth the gamble.  I'm 22% done so far and it's interesting enough. 

There is also another Bruce Trilogy that is only in print.  I'm going to pick that version up soon as well.

A Crown in the Heather:  http://www.amazon.com/Crown-Heather-Bruce-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B003V5X9N6/ref=tmm_kin_title_0

I'm also working my way through The Deluge, Part 1 (of 2).  Pretty good, although it's just a long book no matter how you slice it.  I like the story, though.  It's free, so what's to complain about?

The Deluge:  http://www.amazon.com/Deluge-Historical-Poland-Russia-ebook/dp/B005JEE7T2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1351382618&sr=1-1&keywords=the+deluge+sienkiewicz

The Bruce trilogy - CkII inspired?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 28, 2012, 09:12:21 AM
Found a cheap book by accident called Resurrection Day by Brendan DuBois.  It's a murder mystery set in a 1972 Boston where the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis went hot resulting in the destruction of the USSR and several US cities.  America is still recovering and Britain, France, Germany, and Japan are the world powers vying for influence in the struggling US, and this all ties into the murder.  Well written and researched.  I thought about putting this in the WWIII literature thread but seemed more appropriate here.


http://www.amazon.com/Resurrection-Day-ebook/dp/B00702ZBNC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1351433434&sr=8-2&keywords=resurrection+day
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 28, 2012, 10:04:24 AM
^That sounds great!

Arctic tell me more about Eldritch Tales. I have a few Lovecraft collections but they are pretty old.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 28, 2012, 04:23:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 28, 2012, 10:04:24 AM
^That sounds great!

Arctic tell me more about Eldritch Tales. I have a few Lovecraft collections but they are pretty old.

There's actually quite a few quick little short stories in it that I haven't seen elsewhere. The downside is, some of them are clearly B-side type material.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 28, 2012, 05:04:37 PM
Quote from: Bismarck on September 22, 2012, 04:27:29 PM
Lynn's Battle and MacPherson's excellent War on the Water

War on the Water is fantastic. I'm currently reading it, about halfway through. It's a real gem.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 28, 2012, 05:51:12 PM
B material eh? But even b Lovecraft material is still Lovecraft!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on October 28, 2012, 06:47:11 PM
I just finished Ender's Game.  I've been trying to go squeeze in some Sci-fi classics as I can.

Up next I'm thinking of reading  "Leadership: The Warrior's Art" by Christopher D. Kolenda.  I stumbled upon it in the Marine Corp reading list.  Does anyone have a recommendation on a good book on leadership?  I'm trying to work on that in my professional life.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 28, 2012, 07:16:48 PM
Apparently the 'Ender's Game' movie is in post-production. Please let them not Eff it up...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 28, 2012, 07:41:58 PM
I read Ender's Game so long ago I don't remember anything about it.

I am currently reading Food for the Dead, a non-fiction book on New England vampire folklore. It's really good. I would love to find a job somewhere as an colonial-era professor of folklore.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 28, 2012, 09:29:32 PM
Republic, you might enjoy Anthony Price' Eyes of the Fleet.
It's about leadership during the Age of Sail.  Pre radio, and everyone has to make decisions with no one looking over your shoulder.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 28, 2012, 09:31:01 PM
Oh, and Defeat into Victory by Field marshal William Slim of Burma.
A simply amazing read on how the British 14th Army defended India.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on October 30, 2012, 02:30:26 AM
http://theoatmeal.com/kill (http://theoatmeal.com/kill)



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: RiO_ on October 31, 2012, 04:52:12 PM
Just started "No Easy Day" and Im having a blast so far!  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 31, 2012, 05:03:12 PM
Just arrived today from good 'ol amazon - 'Rommel's Desert War - The Life and Death of the Afrika Korps'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on October 31, 2012, 05:45:14 PM
^Now that sounds like a good book. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 31, 2012, 05:59:02 PM
Only had a quick flip through it, but it seems interesting. There is a lot of stuff about Rommel's early life that I have not seen before. The book goes up to El Alamein, so I'm now looking for one to continue up to the defeat of DAK in Tunisia.

The book is in the Stackpole Military History series BTW, and they are quite cheap to buy on amazon.

I also need to do some reading up on the NA campaign as background material for a projected future add-on to the NaW series games by LnL. We are hoping to put out a Cobra type expansion to follow the release of Desert Heat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on October 31, 2012, 06:01:07 PM
Cool.  I'll have to check out Amazon right now in between answering the door for trick or treaters.  I love to hear about people who research history as they put together a scenario or wargame.  I wish I had more time to do this myself.  Good luck with your efforts!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 31, 2012, 06:08:24 PM
Thanks W8 - there are several NaW projects being worked on just now, and i'll post any future news in the boardgaming section.

I should add that ace scenario designer Matt Lohse is one of the driving forces behind some of these projects, so anyone who has played his WaW / NaW scenario's will know what good stuff he produces.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on October 31, 2012, 08:31:55 PM
Quote from: besilarius on October 28, 2012, 09:29:32 PM
Republic, you might enjoy Anthony Price' Eyes of the Fleet.
It's about leadership during the Age of Sail.  Pre radio, and everyone has to make decisions with no one looking over your shoulder.

Thank-you for the recommendations besilarius, I'll look into those!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 31, 2012, 10:31:39 PM
where to start....

The Junior Officers Reading Club: Killing Time and Fighting Wars by Patrick Hennessey
great soldiers view of Iraq, Afganistan and the British military  cheeky humor for sure!

latest additions to the Lost Fleet series are ok.  more of the same but not bad at all.

latest few additions to the Honor Harrington series.  with three story lines and three
book series to go with them theres enough diversity that its still really fun to read.

with much effort and without a doubt the second most difficult book Ive ever made myself
finish is now Russia at War by Alexander Worth.  it takes talent to make Stalingrad boring.
for what its worth Glantz's on Leningrad was THE most dry boring book I never finished.

Republic... how have you not read Enders Game?!

Staggerwing... the movie will suck.  theres just to much from such a short book.  remember,
this is the Hollywood that screwed up the Hitchhickers movie.

that Rommel book is fairly decent.  most of the Stackpole series is very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on November 01, 2012, 07:54:54 PM
Lol I'm not sure why I waited so long.

I read all The Lost Fleet books.  It bothers me that "Blackjack John Geary" is too flawless.  And For the Honor of our Ancestors, the author uses certain phrases over and over lol

I really enjoyed RM Meluch's Merrimack series.  Also Alan Dean Foster's Pip and Flix and Louis McMaster Bujold's Vorkosigan Saga.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 05, 2012, 09:42:09 PM
I'm with Starfury on both observations of Ender's Game.  And I would also recommend you stop there.  Otherwise, you will ruin a great sci-fi classic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 06, 2012, 01:24:47 AM
Have been rereading the "Celtic Crusades" trilogy by Stephen R. Lawhead.  Currently, I'm a little over halfway through The Black Rood, the second book.  I sometimes forget just how much I love his conjuration of the medieval period. 





Quote from: MetalDog on November 05, 2012, 09:42:09 PM
I'm with Starfury on both observations of Ender's Game.  And I would also recommend you stop there.  Otherwise, you will ruin a great sci-fi classic.
So you'd recommend I stay away from Ender's Shadow and Shadows of the Hegemon


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 06, 2012, 06:52:28 AM
I was thinking Speaker For the Dead and Xenocide.  Not sure what the other two are.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 06, 2012, 08:49:07 AM
Quote from: Martok on November 06, 2012, 01:24:47 AM
Have been rereading the "Celtic Crusades" trilogy by Stephen R. Lawhead.  Currently, I'm a little over halfway through The Black Rood, the second book.  I sometimes forget just how much I love his conjuration of the medieval period. 





Quote from: MetalDog on November 05, 2012, 09:42:09 PM
I'm with Starfury on both observations of Ender's Game.  And I would also recommend you stop there.  Otherwise, you will ruin a great sci-fi classic.

no no no no   the books are great!  its the movie thats going to suck.
So you'd recommend I stay away from Ender's Shadow and Shadows of the Hegemon?

the whole series is good but, like Dune, it gets long winded the further you get into it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on November 06, 2012, 04:59:52 PM
Finished the Lovecraft collection and am about half way through the second Blood Angels omnibus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on November 06, 2012, 09:34:19 PM
Just started The Founding - Gaunt's Ghosts Omnibus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 06, 2012, 09:58:56 PM
I was just thinking that I could really go for some WH or WH40K reading. I may start the Vampire Wars omnibus soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 12, 2012, 02:37:48 PM
I felt it would be appropriate to read The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on November 12, 2012, 04:41:17 PM
Tore through the Blood Angels 2nd omnibus...really good stuff. I've always been a fan of the Space Wolves, but I'm coming around to the Blood Angels chapter as I read about them.

Now it's on to the Savage Worlds : Agents of Oblivion setting book. You can run a full bore spies game, or bring in the supernatural, or do something more X-Files like, or mash it all together in any way you want to. Sounds intriguing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on December 06, 2012, 10:23:21 AM
Finished Mechanicum by Graham MacNeil last night.  What can I say, yet another book in the Horus Heresy series that is well written.  As with all the previous books in the series it tells another aspect of Horus' treachery in a gut wrenching and infuriating style.  Brilliant ending that saw my emotions go from hope, to despair, to outrage, and to hope again.

Picked up Tales of Heresy from Barnes and Noble last night but while I was there I read through some of:

http://www.amazon.com/Churchill-Prophetic-Statesman-James-Humes/dp/1596987758/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1354807085&sr=1-1&keywords=churchill+prophetic

Excellent book.  I would have snatched this title immediately were it not for it's pricey tag in store.  It's cheaper as you can see on Amazon.  Maybe I'll ask Santa for this for Christmas.   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on December 06, 2012, 11:29:59 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on November 12, 2012, 04:41:17 PM
Tore through the Blood Angels 2nd omnibus

they have their own book?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 06, 2012, 11:51:18 AM
Tolkien's Silmarillion.  This is only my second time reading it, and I'm noticing a lot more things now. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on December 06, 2012, 03:45:06 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on December 06, 2012, 11:29:59 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on November 12, 2012, 04:41:17 PM
Tore through the Blood Angels 2nd omnibus

they have their own book?

2 Omnibuses, actually. I believe each of those is 2 books, then some new short story material. Pretty good, actually. The Space Wolves, Ultramarines, Hammers of Dorn,  Soul Drinkers (though their stuff gets decidedly...weird...) and Salamanders all have their own series named for their chapters, too. Dan Abnett also did a single book following the Iron Snakes. And there are a bunch of one off books in the Space Marines Novella series (all have white covers) covering specific campaigns by others.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 06, 2012, 04:31:43 PM
I'm just about to start R.Scott.Bakker's 'The White-Luck Warrior', which is book 2 in the 'Aspect-Emperor' set.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 06, 2012, 08:31:55 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 06, 2012, 04:31:43 PM
I'm just about to start R.Scott.Bakker's 'The White-Luck Warrior', which is book 2 in the 'Aspect-Emperor' set.

Bakker is a fantastic author!  I would recommend him to anyone.  And all you sophisticated fantasy readers, if you have not heard of, or read, Bakker, you should correct that immediately.  It's VERY intense reading, so be prepared to use your grey matter


Quote from: Martok on December 06, 2012, 11:51:18 AM
Tolkien's Silmarillion.  This is only my second time reading it, and I'm noticing a lot more things now.

Martok, The Silmarillion is a source of great joy and great consternation for me.  To see what the master had in mind.  To have fleshed out thousands of years of history that was only hinted at in LotR and the Appendices is a dream come true.  To have the ring tied to the Two Trees and the gods of Middle Earth is  too cool for school.  The problem is, there are giant holes in the narrative.  The pacing is uneven and it appears that some stuff is just papered over.  So, I love the book, I just overlook the flaws.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 07, 2012, 06:49:09 AM
I am currently reading The Wandering Fire, the second book of The Fionawar Tapestry trilogy by Guy Gavriel Kay.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 07, 2012, 03:43:41 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 06, 2012, 08:31:55 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 06, 2012, 04:31:43 PM
I'm just about to start R.Scott.Bakker's 'The White-Luck Warrior', which is book 2 in the 'Aspect-Emperor' set.

Bakker is a fantastic author!  I would recommend him to anyone.  And all you sophisticated fantasy readers, if you have not heard of, or read, Bakker, you should correct that immediately.  It's VERY intense reading, so be prepared to use your grey matter
Duly noted.  I shall add him to my (ever-growing!) list. 




Quote from: MetalDog on December 06, 2012, 08:31:55 PM
Quote from: Martok on December 06, 2012, 11:51:18 AM
Tolkien's Silmarillion.  This is only my second time reading it, and I'm noticing a lot more things now.

Martok, The Silmarillion is a source of great joy and great consternation for me.  To see what the master had in mind.  To have fleshed out thousands of years of history that was only hinted at in LotR and the Appendices is a dream come true.  To have the ring tied to the Two Trees and the gods of Middle Earth is  too cool for school.  The problem is, there are giant holes in the narrative.  The pacing is uneven and it appears that some stuff is just papered over.  So, I love the book, I just overlook the flaws.
Yeah, you can definitely tell it wasn't completely finished, and that Christopher cobbled it together the best he could.  I ignore the flaws & continuity errors as well. 

I wanted to read The Silmarillion ever since I saw that mention of Gondolin in The Hobbit and references to ages long past.  However, it took me over ten years after reading Hobbit and the LotR trilogy before I actually picked it up, as I was intimidated by almost-universal accounts about how much denser and harder to get through The Silmarillion was compared other four books.  I'm very glad I did, though! 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 07, 2012, 06:59:11 PM
The densest part, in my opinion, is the beginning.  Once you get past that, it's all gravy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hiimori on December 09, 2012, 05:17:53 PM
I interrupted my Horus Heresy marathon to read "Ambush: The War between the S.A.S. and the I.R.A." by Anthony Bainbridge, Robin Morgan, and James Adams (Author). It's was written in 1988, and offers interesting background information and insights into organization, structure, and tactics both of the SAS and the IRA.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 09, 2012, 05:44:30 PM
Interesting. I might have to add that one to my wishlist. Thanks for letting us know about it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on December 09, 2012, 06:34:12 PM
I'm about 320 pages in to Napoleon Bonaparte by Alan Schom. Good so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 09, 2012, 07:36:34 PM
He dies in the end.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 09, 2012, 07:38:41 PM
What about in the graphic novel?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 09, 2012, 07:50:48 PM
Is that the one where they ret-conned him and made him a Parkour specialist with twin Uzis that allowed him to take Moscow via the cunning use of sweet jumps and circle kicks?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 09, 2012, 08:05:51 PM
No. I'm referring to the one where he is turns out to be a Cyberdyne Systems T-triple-eight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 09, 2012, 08:10:36 PM
Oh yeah.  No, he still dies in the end of that one.  I think he comes back as a cross dressing vampire or something.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 09, 2012, 10:40:31 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on December 09, 2012, 06:34:12 PM
I'm about 320 pages in to Napoleon Bonaparte by Alan Schom. Good so far.

I enjoyed that book.  I learned quite a bit about Napoleon that way.  I asked an opinion of the book of one of the Napoleon honks over at ACG and he basically said the book was lies and half truths.  That the author had some axe to grind.  Whatever.  I still liked it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 09, 2012, 11:19:49 PM
Well I've finally managed enough man time to finish No Easy Day.  Not sure what's up next on the throne reading list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GroggyGrognard on December 10, 2012, 02:07:30 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on December 07, 2012, 06:49:09 AM
I am currently reading The Wandering Fire, the second book of The Fionawar Tapestry trilogy by Guy Gavriel Kay.

My father read this trilogy years and years ago; he thoroughly enjoyed it. I haven't gotten to it, yet. I read Kay's Tigana some years back. Great fantasy book.

Groggy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 10, 2012, 02:42:35 AM
Quote from: Bison on December 09, 2012, 11:19:49 PM
Well I've finally managed enough man time to finish No Easy Day.  Not sure what's up next on the throne reading list.


for the record man is spent in a garage, shooting range or something not involving books.
while Im a huge advocate of reading, I think its more properly classified as non-porn alone time.  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 10, 2012, 11:39:14 AM
Since when do men read anyway?  A Real Man already knows.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 10, 2012, 04:52:36 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on December 10, 2012, 02:42:35 AM
Quote from: Bison on December 09, 2012, 11:19:49 PM
Well I've finally managed enough man time to finish No Easy Day.  Not sure what's up next on the throne reading list.


for the record man is spent in a garage, shooting range or something not involving books.
while Im a huge advocate of reading, I think its more properly classified as non-porn alone time.  ;)

And while taking a dump which involves reading materials.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on December 10, 2012, 05:42:10 PM
The Walking Dead: The Road to Woodbury

At the mountains of madness (graphic novel)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 10, 2012, 06:43:02 PM
Quote from: Longdan on December 10, 2012, 11:39:14 AM
Since when do men read anyway?  A Real Man already knows.

chiltons manuals and those great articles in Playboy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 10, 2012, 06:44:26 PM
Quote from: eyebiter on December 10, 2012, 05:42:10 PM
The Walking Dead: The Road to Woodbury

At the mountains of madness (graphic novel)

Ive read through the whole comic and it makes that month to month wait painful.
the great thing is how much the show deviates from the comic so I still dont know whats going to happen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 11, 2012, 04:31:14 PM
Once an Eagle by Anton Myrer
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 11, 2012, 06:35:08 PM
I do my greatest studying on the throne.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 11, 2012, 06:57:39 PM
Well Once an Eagle is roughly 1300 pages.   Average 4 pages or so.  I should finish the book sometime in 2015.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 11, 2012, 07:22:02 PM
Wow. I've read maybe three books in my whole life at 1000+ pages...a book on the Crusades, a book on the French and Indian War and the third one escapes me...between 300-400 pages is my sweet spot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 11, 2012, 07:49:51 PM
Well if you ever read the Game of Thrones series, it's 1000+ a book.  They read very fast though.  I think Once an Eagle will read fast too based on my first sitting so to speak.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 12, 2012, 04:01:51 AM
on my list:

http://www.amazon.com/House-An-Epic-Memoir-War/dp/1416596607
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 12, 2012, 07:13:10 AM
Gus, if you're intrigued by Once an Eagle, there was a TV mini-series that probably ran six hours back about twenty years ago.  Could probably find it on Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 12, 2012, 11:25:30 AM
Thanks Bes. Bison I read the first Game of Thrones, it took me about three weeks, IIRC.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on December 12, 2012, 12:05:41 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 11, 2012, 04:31:14 PM
Once an Eagle by Anton Myrer

That's an old favorite and I have a well-read copy on my bookshelf. It was also a mini-series in the 70's starring Sam Elliot.  It's on Netflix and is well worth watching.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on December 12, 2012, 12:08:04 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 11, 2012, 04:31:14 PM
Once an Eagle by Anton Myrer

That's an old favorite and I have a well-read copy on my bookshelf. It was also a mini-series in the 70's starring Sam Elliot.  I don't know if it's available, but it is definitely worth watching.

Actually, I just checked....you can pick up the DVD on Amazon for under $10.00. I'm going to grab it myself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 12, 2012, 09:59:54 PM
I haven't read it yet so I'm hesistant to watch it first.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 13, 2012, 02:31:29 PM
I finally finished The Silmarillion, and have now started reading The Callahan Chronicles by Spider Robinson. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 13, 2012, 06:49:48 PM
Spider Robinson was great.  He could have walked into Callahan's and been a regular customer.
I think he used to attend a lot of the East Coast Sci Fi Conventions.  If you didn't know who he was, his stories made for a great evening.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on December 14, 2012, 11:15:06 AM
I am working my way through David Weber's Empire from the Ashes trilogy. A light read but an entertaining space opera.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 16, 2012, 10:31:37 PM
Quote from: GroggyGrognard on December 10, 2012, 02:07:30 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on December 07, 2012, 06:49:09 AM
I am currently reading The Wandering Fire, the second book of The Fionawar Tapestry trilogy by Guy Gavriel Kay.

My father read this trilogy years and years ago; he thoroughly enjoyed it. I haven't gotten to it, yet. I read Kay's Tigana some years back. Great fantasy book.

Groggy

Thanks for the tip about Tigana. I finished The Wandering Fire and am reading The Darkest Road now (it is the third book in the trilogy). I will read Tigana next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 19, 2012, 08:16:02 PM
"Vanished Kingdoms" by Norman Davies.  A history of many of the now vanished
kingdoms of Europe..like Savoy, Burgundy etc.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 21, 2012, 11:54:53 PM
I am a little nervous to admit this but I did not enjoy Guns of August much. I slogged through the first half and it was a slow read except for the chapters specifically about the German invasion of Belgium. The second half I skimmed to the end. It was dense, and difficult to read. I know it's like a holy canon in the field but I thought it was going to be so much better. And I am disappointed in myself that I was disappointed in the book :/

Oh well. At least it helped me get over my WWI fixation for now and I am moving on to this:

http://www.amazon.com/Something-Red-Novel-Douglas-Nicholas/dp/1451660073/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1356152017&sr=1-1&keywords=something+red
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 22, 2012, 07:08:27 AM
That Something Red sounds pretty good, Gus.  Let us know what you think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 22, 2012, 07:32:18 AM
Definitely. I've added it to my wish list whilst awaiting a pithy critique from Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 22, 2012, 11:12:25 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 21, 2012, 11:54:53 PM
I am a little nervous to admit this but I did not enjoy Guns of August much. I slogged through the first half and it was a slow read except for the chapters specifically about the German invasion of Belgium. The second half I skimmed to the end. It was dense, and difficult to read. I know it's like a holy canon in the field but I thought it was going to be so much better. And I am disappointed in myself that I was disappointed in the book :/

Oh well. At least it helped me get over my WWI fixation for now and I am moving on to this:

http://www.amazon.com/Something-Red-Novel-Douglas-Nicholas/dp/1451660073/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1356152017&sr=1-1&keywords=something+red

Maybe too late to suggest, but I listened to Guns of August on audiobook and it was fascinating.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 22, 2012, 05:06:19 PM
Who read it on the audio book? Glad to see you posting and that you have some form of web access still!

About 12 pages in on Something Red...can't judge yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on December 22, 2012, 06:51:01 PM
Troubled Water - Race, Mutiny, and Bravery on the USS Kittyhawk

October 12, 1972 during Operation Linebacker there was an "incident" on board the carrier. A race riot by a mob of black sailors randomly attacking white crewman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 24, 2012, 01:01:59 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 22, 2012, 05:06:19 PM
Who read it on the audio book? Glad to see you posting and that you have some form of web access still!


Yeah, there's a contractor on our FOB that offers wireless internet.  It's pricey and slow but it lets me skype with the wif and kids and post here  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 24, 2012, 01:48:13 PM
^Awesome man. Merry Xmas!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 24, 2012, 02:10:12 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 24, 2012, 01:48:13 PM
^Awesome man. Merry Xmas!

+1!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on December 24, 2012, 05:33:25 PM
Almost done with World War Z that I got as an early Christmas present.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 24, 2012, 07:57:48 PM
^Loved that book, quick read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 25, 2012, 04:26:56 AM
Am halfway through The Alloy of Law by Brandon Sanderson.  It's been a very good read so far. 


It's a standalone novel in his Mistborn universe, taking place a few centuries after the events of the original trilogy.  Technology has advanced to roughly the Victorian age, with railroads, skyscrapers, and electricity becoming common.  Some of the action takes place out in "the Roughs", which is that world's equivalent to the American "Wild West" -- an aspect I'm finding to be surprisingly interesting. 

I have to admit, it's refreshing to read a novel taking place in a fantasy universe where said universe *doesn't* stay locked in medieval stasis.  Not that I don't also enjoy that as well, but it's nice to see a fantasy series not always follow that particular trope. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 25, 2012, 07:07:14 AM
Did you read the first three Mistborn books? How were they?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 25, 2012, 09:56:38 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on December 25, 2012, 07:07:14 AM
Did you read the first three Mistborn books? How were they?
Yes, I have read the original trilogy.  (It's why I was interested in checking out Alloy of Law in the first place.)  It's very, very good...but with a couple caveats. 



First off, the pacing is wildly uneven at times.  You'll go through chapters where absolutely nothing seems to happen -- and/or worse, doesn't seem to even add to the story (although it can later turn out they included scenes that were *very* relevant in an unexpected way).  On the flip side, you'll have chapters where there's suddenly so much going on (action scenes, revelations/answers, etc.) and hitting you all at once, that you're left reeling. 

The other main thing to mention is that while Sanderson writes damn good fantasy, he loves deconstructing the genre at the same time.  In his books, you'll see a lot of tropes common to fantasy literature being constantly lampshaded, subverted, inverted, and/or flat-out averted...all while still being played straight!  (I realize that sentence probably doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but you'll see what I mean if you read the books.)  It's a fairly ingenious storytelling method, especially as it helps keep the reader guessing, but it's not going to appeal to everyone. 


All that being said, however, I still strongly recommend the trilogy.  While the books feel like they're really dragging sometimes, and the near-constant deconstruction of fantasy stories (especially in-universe) can be a turn-off for some folks, the payoff in the end is HUGE -- absolutely, enormously, epically HUGE.  The HSQ at the end of the first book is big, and the HSQ at the end of each subsequent book is an order of magnitude bigger than the one preceding it. 

The trilogy's uneven pacing (especially the slower parts) often made me wonder if the ending was worth it. 

It is. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on December 25, 2012, 10:05:45 AM
+1 to all of this, i loved the first two and was half way thru the 3rd when i left it on a plane, for 6 months i couldnt be bothered to replace it, some of it is hard work, but bought it again and started from the beginning - great book, spectacular unseen ending

just finished the Eisenhorn trilogy - as you guys said, great, great read, sorry to see it go, looking now for something to replace it - might turn to the boold angels
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on December 25, 2012, 11:24:20 AM
Just started Red Inferno 1945 by Robert Conroy. So far an enjoyable alternate history read along the lines of Fox on the Rhine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on December 25, 2012, 11:30:05 AM
Just finished re-reading The Hobbit in prep for seeing the movie.
It's been more than 30 years since I read it last.  :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 25, 2012, 11:53:19 AM
Anthony Price wrote a series of spy novels back during the Cold War, and I'm reading them again.
He wrote contemporaneously with Le Carre, so his books never made the splash of Le Carre.
However, I like them better.  The people are more human, the problems are not so opaque and far more understandable (once the crew at R&D have pieced the plots together), and the author and the main character are fascinated by historical conundrums. 
This is a weakness that the Soviets sometimes build into thier plans, but you can't tell if it is just a quirk, or a real plot device.  Since I love historical minutia, it feeds into my interests.
If you're curious about a Cold War spy novel that is good, try October Men, War Games, or Other Paths to Glory.  My favorites in the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 25, 2012, 12:50:16 PM
Thanks Martok and Geek. I'll ad them to my wishlist. I'm just getting ready to start Charles Stross' 'the Laundry Files' series.

Quote from: undercovergeek on December 25, 2012, 10:05:45 AM
just finished the Eisenhorn trilogy - as you guys said, great, great read, sorry to see it go, looking now for something to replace it - might turn to the boold angels

I just finished 'Raveno'r. It's a good counterpoint to 'Eisenhorn'. You may want to give it a go. I'm really looking forward to the next series, 'Eisenhorn vs Ravenor', IIRC.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hiimori on December 25, 2012, 04:51:15 PM
Currently visiting my parents, sister, niece and nephew for Christmas... the perfect opportunity for finishing "The Primarchs", a WH40k Horus Heresy anthology featuring 4 novellas about the Primarchs Fulgrim, Ferrus Manus, Lion El'Johnson and Alpharius (with Omegon, of course ;)).

I finished Fulgrim's story "The Reflection Crack'd" some weeks ago (the novella picks up where the novel "Fulgrim" ended and shows much of the Emperor's Children's obsession with perversion... uhm... I mean... perfection), and now I'm reading "Feat of Iron" about Ferrus Manus and his Iron Hands Legion. Ferrus and the Iron Hands are not among my most favorite Primarchs or legions, so I'm not too deeply involved into their fate, but so far, the novella is cool nevertheless.

Lion and his Dark Angels got much screen time in the Horus Heresy novels so far, but it will be interesting to read and learn more about Alpharius and his sneaky Alpha Legion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 25, 2012, 07:09:32 PM
Just started 'Exit Rommel - The Tunisian Campaign 1942-43'. This is another Stackpole book, my collection of which is growing quite nicely.

Since I got the Dawn of War package in the Steam Sale, my old passion for WH40K has been somewhat revivied, so I may have to look at some of the books that you fella's have been going on about!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2012, 12:30:37 PM
Anyone read the Warhammer Thunder and Steel omnibus by Dan Abnett? Gets mixed reviews:

http://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Steel-Warhammer-Omnibus-Abnett/dp/1849700230/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1356715202&sr=1-1&keywords=Thunder+and+Steel
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 28, 2012, 12:33:36 PM
Agenda 21 by Glenn Beck.  I got it for Christmas and it's actually a pretty good scifi book. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 28, 2012, 02:49:50 PM
I got "World War Z" as an audio book.  I drive a lot.
I had to quit listening when the Israelis offered to
rescue all the Palestinians.  I believe in zombies but
that was too much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 28, 2012, 02:52:55 PM
I listened to World War Z driving through the Yukon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on December 28, 2012, 04:03:19 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 28, 2012, 02:52:55 PM
I listened to World War Z driving through the Yukon.

the enemy of my Z-enemy is my friend
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on December 28, 2012, 06:42:30 PM
Triumph by Ben Bova. Alternate history novel starting April 1, 1945.  What if Churchill plotted to take out Stalin during spring 1945?  What if the Allies pressed the attack on Berlin instead of letting the Soviets take eastern Germany and Austria? 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on December 28, 2012, 08:32:53 PM
Quote from: Longdan on December 28, 2012, 02:49:50 PM
I got "World War Z" as an audio book.  I drive a lot.
I had to quit listening when the Israelis offered to
rescue all the Palestinians.  I believe in zombies but
that was too much.

Thats to bad you are missing out on a good book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 28, 2012, 10:39:10 PM
I'm still working my way through The Deluge, Vol. 2.  Very good book, free, and I highly recommend the trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 29, 2012, 03:23:57 AM
I just ordered Starshine by John Wilcox for my Kindle. 

The blurb:

Quote1914. Outnumbered British forces are desperately trying to hold off the oncoming German soldiers in France. Star shells fly high into the night, illuminating the chaos, violence and death taking place in the French trenches below.

Like so many other men, Jim Hickman and Bertie Murphy are plunged into this nightmare. As the war progresses, Jim receives honour after honour, whilst Bertie sinks deep into depression.

Wilcox perfectly captures the horror and tragedy of the First World War in this vivid and moving novel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 29, 2012, 01:24:49 PM
Try Covenant With Death by John Harris.
If you want a dose of WWI.  It is a story of one
of the "Pals battalions" from August 1914 until
July 1st, 1916.
-> Warning to Gus: I cannot be responsible for
your emotional condition if you read this book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 29, 2012, 02:18:02 PM
^I just won't play Toy Soldiers while reading it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 29, 2012, 04:32:07 PM
It puts a grim light on Toy Soldiers much more so than Gins of August.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 29, 2012, 07:24:30 PM
I was actually disappointed in the second half of Guns of August...it dragged.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 29, 2012, 08:19:00 PM
Well you knew how it was gonna turn out so I guess
that little element of surprise wasn't there.  No tension.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on December 29, 2012, 09:10:42 PM
This week's reading menu included "The Girl Who Played With Fire" by Steig Larsson (excellent) and "Hater" by David Moody (interesting). Next up is either "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest" by Larsson or "Creole Belle" by James Lee Burke. The sequel to "Hater" is in the mail but I will likely read it after I finish these two.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 30, 2012, 07:43:24 AM
Sherlock Holmes: 24 Classic Short Stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 30, 2012, 10:31:26 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on December 30, 2012, 07:43:24 AM
Sherlock Holmes: 24 Classic Short Stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

My favorite read of all time.  Sherlock Holmes.  I think I've read the complete collection 5 or 6 times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 30, 2012, 12:36:33 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 30, 2012, 10:31:26 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on December 30, 2012, 07:43:24 AM
Sherlock Holmes: 24 Classic Short Stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

My favorite read of all time.  Sherlock Holmes.  I think I've read the complete collection 5 or 6 times.


I've read it at least twice.  And with my perpetual short term memory loss, it's like new stories every time :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 30, 2012, 01:54:38 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 30, 2012, 12:36:33 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 30, 2012, 10:31:26 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on December 30, 2012, 07:43:24 AM
Sherlock Holmes: 24 Classic Short Stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

My favorite read of all time.  Sherlock Holmes.  I think I've read the complete collection 5 or 6 times.


I've read it at least twice.  And with my perpetual short term memory loss, it's like new stories every time :)

...so, you may have actually read it more than twice........... ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 30, 2012, 03:20:57 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 30, 2012, 01:54:38 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 30, 2012, 12:36:33 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 30, 2012, 10:31:26 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on December 30, 2012, 07:43:24 AM
Sherlock Holmes: 24 Classic Short Stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

My favorite read of all time.  Sherlock Holmes.  I think I've read the complete collection 5 or 6 times.


I've read it at least twice.  And with my perpetual short term memory loss, it's like new stories every time :)

...so, you may have actually read it more than twice........... ;)


That certainly is a possibility, bob.  Although, I would have to remember what it is we were talking about in order to verify anything for sure.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 30, 2012, 05:20:08 PM
Just started David Weber's Midst Toil and Tribulation, the sixth book in his Safehold series.  I received it as a Christmas gift (it was at the top of my list!).  :) 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2012, 08:16:58 PM
Anyone read The Mongoliad?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1612182364/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 30, 2012, 08:18:31 PM
That actually sounds like a really good series Gus.  I might have to read that myself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 30, 2012, 08:32:06 PM
I have the first book on my Kindle but have not gotten to it yet. I really do need to move it up a few notches in reading order though...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2012, 08:34:12 PM
Yeah I remember looking at it a while back. The collaborative thing sounds a little odd and there are some 'meh' reviews but how bad could a series about surviving the Mongol invasion be?

'Wing be our guinea pig and read that som'bitch.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 30, 2012, 08:50:12 PM
Alright but I'll need to juggle it with reading a certain Xmas present book as well. Also, don't expect any book report beyond what a 10 9 year old might write...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 30, 2012, 08:53:53 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on December 30, 2012, 08:50:12 PM
Alright but I'll need to juggle it with reading a certain Xmas present book as well. Also, don't expect any book report beyond what a 10 9 year old might write...

As if anyone was expecting or willing or had the ability here to do anything better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on December 30, 2012, 09:41:41 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 30, 2012, 08:16:58 PM
Anyone read The Mongoliad?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1612182364/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

You guys need to stop posting these interesting looking books.  I am a horribly slow reader and my reading list is already to long.  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 30, 2012, 11:52:37 PM
I read a few entries and I find myself in the bookstore
with no memory of how I got there.......
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 31, 2012, 11:48:22 AM
I used to read voraciously when I commuted on the train but now that I don't anymore I read mostly on the can and late at night, which has turned me into a slow reader. When I get desperate, like with the 2nd half of Guns of August, I will speed read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on December 31, 2012, 01:21:54 PM
I got this for Christmas...

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amberbooks.co.uk%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fcover-large%2FID%2520Panzer%2520JKT%2520AMBER.jpg%3F2011&hash=b3e53c11fac2b749432c5b8af24f54f928debfe1)

so I guess I will be reading it
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 31, 2012, 01:24:30 PM
Quote from: Windigo on December 31, 2012, 01:21:54 PM
I got this for Christmas...

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amberbooks.co.uk%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fcover-large%2FID%2520Panzer%2520JKT%2520AMBER.jpg%3F2011&hash=b3e53c11fac2b749432c5b8af24f54f928debfe1)

so I guess I will be reading it

Nice Christmas present. I'm jealous. I got dress socks and a desk organizer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on December 31, 2012, 03:25:09 PM
I buyed that one for meself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on January 02, 2013, 12:59:35 AM
http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Last-Lion-Churchill-1940-1965/dp/0316547700

Churchill, the Last Lion: Defender of the Realm

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 03, 2013, 09:35:59 AM
Quote from: Martok on December 30, 2012, 05:20:08 PM
Just started David Weber's Midst Toil and Tribulation, the sixth book in his Safehold series.  I received it as a Christmas gift (it was at the top of my list!).  :)

A tweet from David Weber
Quote
40,000 words into "Like A Mighty Army," Safehold #7...Should be out on shelves September 2013!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 03, 2013, 03:36:48 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1108.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fh412%2FRotarrin%2FOther%2FMrBurns.jpg&hash=754e3e54869dcde8fb686c42470d430e2cae170d)


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 03, 2013, 08:09:01 PM
I just got a copy of Desperate Sons which is a narrative
about the "Sons of Liberty" and their activities in the North American
Colonies prior to the War Where America Told Britain To Sod Off.
It is looking really fascinating with tons of period background.
edit.  sorry author is Les Standiford.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 05, 2013, 10:21:14 PM
Just finished Through Struggle the Stars (http://www.thehumanreach.net/) by John J. Lumpkin. Quite possibly the best hard sci-fi novel I've ever read. Everything about the setting and story seems real. Looking forward to the sequel.

I've just started Ralph Peters' The War After Armageddon (http://www.amazon.com/The-War-After-Armageddon-ebook/dp/B002OKZCTI/ref=pd_rhf_se_p_t_2), very dark subject matter. It's interesting how his vision of future war has changed over the years as I remember reading The War in 2020 (http://www.amazon.com/The-War-2020-Ralph-Peters/dp/0671751727/ref=tmm_mmp_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1357442339&sr=1-2) about 20 years ago and it had a completely different scenario.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on January 06, 2013, 09:33:10 AM
I'm reading Viper Pilot by Dan Hampton.  He has some great combat stories.  He can be pretty cocky....but I guess that's what makes a good fighter pilot.

He goes into good detail about cockpit operations, so it's actually helping me understand BMS Falcon a bit.

I'm going to add Through Struggle the Stars to my reading list.  That sounds like a good book Pinetree
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 06, 2013, 11:00:05 AM
Just started reading Don Quixote for the first time.  Yes, really! 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on January 06, 2013, 05:57:09 PM
100 pages into Patton: A Genius for War by Carlo D'Este.  Good read so far, only 700 pages to go.   ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on January 08, 2013, 12:39:22 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on January 05, 2013, 10:21:14 PM

I've just started Ralph Peters' The War After Armageddon (http://www.amazon.com/The-War-After-Armageddon-ebook/dp/B002OKZCTI/ref=pd_rhf_se_p_t_2), very dark subject matter. It's interesting how his vision of future war has changed over the years as I remember reading The War in 2020 (http://www.amazon.com/The-War-2020-Ralph-Peters/dp/0671751727/ref=tmm_mmp_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1357442339&sr=1-2) about 20 years ago and it had a completely different scenario.

I found the whole thing a little unbelievable, very dark.  Interested to hear your thoughts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 08, 2013, 01:04:08 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on January 05, 2013, 10:21:14 PM
Just finished Through Struggle the Stars (http://www.thehumanreach.net/) by John J. Lumpkin. Quite possibly the best hard sci-fi novel I've ever read. Everything about the setting and story seems real. Looking forward to the sequel.

Looks good. Thanks for the recommendation!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 08, 2013, 05:46:30 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on January 05, 2013, 10:21:14 PM
Just finished Through Struggle the Stars (http://www.thehumanreach.net/) by John J. Lumpkin. Quite possibly the best hard sci-fi novel I've ever read. Everything about the setting and story seems real. Looking forward to the sequel.

I read this awhile ago.  The concepts where good, but the writing was awlful. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 08, 2013, 07:12:48 PM
How was the spelling?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on January 08, 2013, 10:35:14 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 06, 2013, 11:00:05 AM
Just started reading Don Quixote for the first time.  Yes, really!

That's on my bucket reading list too.... I'll get there some day....

Currently reading The Theory of Everything: The Origin and Fate of the Universe by Stephen Hawking. Very well written and accessible.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on January 09, 2013, 02:01:59 AM
Finally sat down and finished the Napoleon book, which I enjoyed. Next up will be...I'm leaning towards Fulgrim.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 09, 2013, 02:23:40 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on January 08, 2013, 05:46:30 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on January 05, 2013, 10:21:14 PM
Just finished Through Struggle the Stars (http://www.thehumanreach.net/) by John J. Lumpkin. Quite possibly the best hard sci-fi novel I've ever read. Everything about the setting and story seems real. Looking forward to the sequel.

I read this awhile ago.  The concepts where good, but the writing was awlful. 

Interesting, I thought the writing was excellent; the story just seemed to flow nicely, all the characters seemed to react to events realistically, dialogue was great and there was lots of moral ambiguity.What didn't you like? I may be biased as the book feels like a combination of my favourite scifi setting (2300AD RPG ) and one of my favourite wargames (Attack Vector:Tactical, one of the most realistic starship combat games out there). I loved it.

Quote from: Airborne Rifles on January 08, 2013, 12:39:22 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on January 05, 2013, 10:21:14 PM

I've just started Ralph Peters' The War After Armageddon (http://www.amazon.com/The-War-After-Armageddon-ebook/dp/B002OKZCTI/ref=pd_rhf_se_p_t_2), very dark subject matter. It's interesting how his vision of future war has changed over the years as I remember reading The War in 2020 (http://www.amazon.com/The-War-2020-Ralph-Peters/dp/0671751727/ref=tmm_mmp_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1357442339&sr=1-2) about 20 years ago and it had a completely different scenario.

I found the whole thing a little unbelievable, very dark.  Interested to hear your thoughts.

Thar' be spoilers below:










I've just finished it and it was a very bleak ending. I found the whole religious fervour of the US a bit much, esp. the description of the US in the epilogue. The war-fighting and technology side seemed spot on though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 09, 2013, 02:32:44 AM
Quote from: Shelldrake on January 08, 2013, 01:04:08 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on January 05, 2013, 10:21:14 PM
Just finished Through Struggle the Stars (http://www.thehumanreach.net/) by John J. Lumpkin. Quite possibly the best hard sci-fi novel I've ever read. Everything about the setting and story seems real. Looking forward to the sequel.

Looks good. Thanks for the recommendation!

No worries, another book I highly recommend is The Martian (http://www.galactanet.com/writing.html), which you can download for free from the link. It's a brilliant tale of an Astronaut who is mistakenly left for dead on Mars and how he struggles to survive. It's mainly told through his log and the character has an awesome sense of humour. Apparently the science is good too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 11, 2013, 03:54:19 PM
^ Thanks Pinetree.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 12, 2013, 07:31:37 PM
Having heard good things about Sanderson's grand finale to Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series (and generally positive things about the books after Crossroads of Twilight, which is where I gave up on the series until I heard good things about the conclusion), I am starting the slow crawl to the end from Book 1, The Eye Of The World.

I haven't read through the series in at least ten years, so it's interesting to see how the first chapters (and the main protagonists in their first appearances) compare, even with where I last left them (having finished book 9, Winter's Heart), much moreso with the few spoilery things I've read about A Memory of the Light (or whatever it's called--I've heard so many versions of the title over the years I can't get my mind to nail down the final version. ;) )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2013, 09:54:03 PM
Anyone here read Agincourt by Cornwell?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:03:55 PM
I've not read Agincourt but I really enjoy Cornwell's writing.  Might have to put this one on the list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2013, 10:11:22 PM
Agincourt is available for 0.01...I don't think I can go wrong. Unless I should just get a history of the battle instead...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:26:13 PM
Yeah I didn't see that but I buy most of my books for my Kindle these days.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 12, 2013, 10:29:19 PM
It is good enough but Cornwell is one of those 50 page a day writer's I think and I can only handle
so much of him.  Sometimes his characters act like idiots or just plain murderers.  But I remember it as a smooth
enough read
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2013, 10:36:33 PM
Any alternatives? I've only read one book by him, in the Viking series. It was OK. Still...0.01. Pretty decent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:46:21 PM
I like Cornwell's characters.  They remind me of Martin's characters in Game of Thones.  The good guys aren't all good and the bad guys aren't all bad.  Well except Cersi, she's just a bitch.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 12, 2013, 10:48:23 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:46:21 PM
Well except Cersei, she's just a bitch.


Yeah, but she likes to get down.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:54:30 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 12, 2013, 10:48:23 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:46:21 PM
Well except Cersei, she's just a bitch.


Yeah, but she likes to get down.

Especially with kin.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 12, 2013, 10:56:03 PM
I keep meaning to start The Last Kingdom one of these days. Speaking of which...

Gus, for a bit of medium-weight reading try Harry Harrison's  trilogy The Hammer and the Cross (http://www.amazon.com/The-Hammer-Cross-Harry-Harrison/dp/0812523482)/One King's Way/King and Emperor. It was co-authored by Tom Shippey (as John Holm) who is a Tolkien scholar. It is actually alt-history but so full of references to Anglo-Saxon and Viking history that anyone who has taken an interested in the subject(s) will find it captivating. There are a small number of anachronisms (such as a reference to the Dutch coast) but the story is good enough that you can let them slide.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 12, 2013, 10:58:56 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 12, 2013, 10:48:23 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:46:21 PM
Well except Cersei, she's just a bitch.


Yeah, but she likes to get down.

I haven't read that series yet but the name Cersei must be a reference to Circe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circe), the sorceress from the Odyssey, no?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 12, 2013, 11:02:02 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on January 12, 2013, 10:58:56 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 12, 2013, 10:48:23 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 12, 2013, 10:46:21 PM
Well except Cersei, she's just a bitch.


Yeah, but she likes to get down.

I haven't read that series yet but the name Cersei must be a reference to Circe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circe), the sorceress from the Odyssey, no?

I don't know but she is a bitch.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 12, 2013, 11:03:25 PM
She hasn't turned anyone into pigs, but she gave her son a Dog.  And she's a ferocious opponent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 12, 2013, 11:04:48 PM
Dog turned out to be quite the interesting character actually.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 12, 2013, 11:08:03 PM
I liked his development as well.  He is internally consistent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on January 12, 2013, 11:54:39 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 12, 2013, 10:11:22 PM
Agincourt is available for 0.01...I don't think I can go wrong. Unless I should just get a history of the battle instead...

Where did you see it for 0.1?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 13, 2013, 11:15:36 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 12, 2013, 10:11:22 PM
Agincourt is available for 0.01...I don't think I can go wrong. Unless I should just get a history of the battle instead...

A pretty good read, although a bit slow at the start. I recommend it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 13, 2013, 11:18:30 AM
Just finished Weber's Empire From The Ashes. Very enjoyable but a bid odd that the third book in the trilogy, which was the longest by far, seemed to wrap up too quickly. Still, Weber has yet to disappoint me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 13, 2013, 12:46:53 PM
Took a detour from Don Quixote to read Carl Sagan's Contact.  I'd always meant to get around to checking out the book after having seen the movie years ago, and am now finally doing so. 





Quote from: JasonPratt on January 12, 2013, 07:31:37 PM
Having heard good things about Sanderson's grand finale to Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series (and generally positive things about the books after Crossroads of Twilight, which is where I gave up on the series until I heard good things about the conclusion), I am starting the slow crawl to the end from Book 1, The Eye Of The World.

I haven't read through the series in at least ten years, so it's interesting to see how the first chapters (and the main protagonists in their first appearances) compare, even with where I last left them (having finished book 9, Winter's Heart), much moreso with the few spoilery things I've read about A Memory of the Light (or whatever it's called--I've heard so many versions of the title over the years I can't get my mind to nail down the final version. ;) )
Good luck sir!  I wish you a safe journey, especially as you slog through the morass that is books 7-10.  (Also, please feel free to share your thoughts on the three Sanderson-authored books once you're finished.)  8) 




Quote from: Gusington on January 12, 2013, 09:54:03 PM
Anyone here read Agincourt by Cornwell?
I own and enjoy it.  Cornwell does a great job of keeping the outcome from feeling inevitable, and that the events from that period are still very mutable. 




Quote from: Shelldrake on January 13, 2013, 11:18:30 AM
Just finished Weber's Empire From The Ashes. Very enjoyable but a bid odd that the third book in the trilogy, which was the longest by far, seemed to wrap up too quickly. Still, Weber has yet to disappoint me.
Wait -- Weber has actually finished a series he's started??  Surely not!  :o 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 02:43:53 PM
Thanks Martok. There are a ton of copies available on Amazon for 0.01, mostly hardcovers (which I prefer). So...3.99 for shipping and .01 for the book itself. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 13, 2013, 03:06:59 PM
Heh, nice. 


I'll admit I like his Saxon Tales novels more, but Agincourt still holds up well as a standalone book. 

I think it helps that the latter is more grounded in historical fact.  In contrast, Cornwell has freely admitted to taking various "artistic liberties" with the Saxon Tales series (although he stays true to the overall course of events). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 13, 2013, 03:13:11 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 13, 2013, 12:46:53 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 12, 2013, 07:31:37 PM
Having heard good things about Sanderson's grand finale to Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series (and generally positive things about the books after Crossroads of Twilight, which is where I gave up on the series until I heard good things about the conclusion), I am starting the slow crawl to the end from Book 1, The Eye Of The World.
Good luck sir!  I wish you a safe journey, especially as you slog through the morass that is books 7-10.  (Also, please feel free to share your thoughts on the three Sanderson-authored books once you're finished.)  8) 

Yeah, that'll likely be several months from now. ;) (Less if I spent all my free time reading the series of course, but I do have other things to do.)

Fortunately, while I was increasingly disappointed with A Crown of Swords and then The Path of Daggers on my first reads through them, I was surprised to discover I actually liked ACoS (and even TPOD) more than I realized on rereads preparatory to Winter's Heart. Can't deny the books peaked before then (I'm one of those who think The Fires of Heaven was the high watermark, partly because of the action sequences with their tactics and strategies), but I'm more worried about slogging through WH again and then Crossroads of Twilight. {shudder}

Oh well. Authors of my generation can learn from his mistakes and try not to repeat them. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 13, 2013, 03:23:55 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 13, 2013, 03:13:11 PM
Oh well. Authors of my generation can learn from his mistakes and try not to repeat them. :)


Or they can see the boatload of money and recognition he made from doing it that way and think it's ok for them to do it, too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 13, 2013, 03:37:26 PM
holding off on the blood angels and ultramarine omnibuses until work starts and im sat on planes again - lithuania and istanbul up next! - until then im starting Clive Barker's Imajica for the eleventy millionth time - probably my favourite book - its missing a front cover and the back one doesnt have long but its has sentimental value
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 03:38:44 PM
I like it when writers take some liberties with history as long as they are not too ridiculous.

'Geek tell us why you like Imajica...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 13, 2013, 03:57:53 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 13, 2013, 03:13:11 PM
Fortunately, while I was increasingly disappointed with A Crown of Swords and then The Path of Daggers on my first reads through them, I was surprised to discover I actually liked ACoS (and even TPOD) more than I realized on rereads preparatory to Winter's Heart. Can't deny the books peaked before then (I'm one of those who think The Fires of Heaven was the high watermark, partly because of the action sequences with their tactics and strategies), but I'm more worried about slogging through WH again and then Crossroads of Twilight. {shudder}
Interesting, as my experience is virtually the same.  I actually didn't have a problem with ACoS or TPoD (despite the pacing noticeably starting to drag), but books 9 & 10 were very difficult for me to get through. 





Quote from: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 03:38:44 PM
I like it when writers take some liberties with history as long as they are not too ridiculous.

Then you should be just fine with Agincourt...especially at that price.  ;) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 13, 2013, 03:58:53 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 03:38:44 PM
I like it when writers take some liberties with history as long as they are not too ridiculous.

'Geek tell us why you like Imajica...

oh man - firstly as a sci fi geek i always like a little history and religious mystery thrown into my books - the hero of the piece is Gentle/John Fury Zacharias, a man who ultimately realises he is the man to reconcile Earth to 4 other Dominions that make up the Imajica - Earth been the unreconciled 5th Dominion. Before him came other luminaries such as Casanova and Jesus - the book aludes to the fact that there were 4 wise men originally, all looking for Jesus as he was the next Reconciler - the Imajica can only be reconciled every 250 years, and its Gentles responsibility this time round. Can he work the miracle whilst dark forces conspire to prevent the Reconciliation, including the Tabula Rasa, a body established to wipe magic from the face of the Earth to prevent the previous disaster of the mid 18th century. And will he be reunited with his lost love - Pie o Pah, a mystif capable of taking on any form its beholder projects making it the ultimate assasin and/or whore - a role forced upon it by its previous master Satori.

Its a very cleverly disguised rework of revelations and the new testament in my opinion, but please dont let that be all you take away from this, im the most unreligious person youll find and i think its wonderful! Its a love story, a tragedy, and a masterpiece - its the first book that ever made me laugh out loud and (im amongst friends here) the first book that ever made me cry

http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-reviews/0006178049/ref=cm_cr_pr_hist_5?ie=UTF8&filterBy=addFiveStar&showViewpoints=0

A lot of people here say it better than i can
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 04:08:54 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbloody-disgusting.com%2Fphotosizer%2Fupload%2Frickmoranis040709.jpg&hash=8b0bf3cdbe6af24ef27f5877d579e96f22b45170)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 13, 2013, 04:10:29 PM
whilst im aware of who this is, why, what and how it happened, and also its appearance has led to tea on the laptop screen and my face - im not sure i see the connection, but hell it made me laugh out loud  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 04:19:33 PM
Of course you can see the connection. Your description of Imajica almost made me call the police. Good show!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on January 13, 2013, 04:55:49 PM
Homicide by David Simon, great read so far. next will be the corner.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hiimori on January 13, 2013, 06:22:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 04:19:33 PM
Of course you can see the connection. Your description of Imajica almost made me call the police. Good show!

Imajica - this was one of my favorite books in the mid-90s, I think I read it about 5 times then. I should dig it out and read it again!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 13, 2013, 06:53:44 PM
Quote from: Hiimori on January 13, 2013, 06:22:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 04:19:33 PM
Of course you can see the connection. Your description of Imajica almost made me call the police. Good show!

Imajica - this was one of my favorite books in the mid-90s, I think I read it about 5 times then. I should dig it out and read it again!

please do

i got all excited when checking on amazon that there was a second part - it seems a lot of people made this mistake, apparently they split the 1100 page original in two and lots of people bought part 2 thinking it was a sequel, as i almost did
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 08:11:20 PM
1100 pages is looong.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 13, 2013, 08:16:23 PM
I don't mind long books if they have a compelling storyline.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 08:18:01 PM
True. The Shining is 650 but is like butta.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 13, 2013, 08:19:45 PM
Moby Dick does not have a compelling story.  Actually it's pretty damned horrible.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 08:20:08 PM
I'm sorry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 13, 2013, 08:28:40 PM
I reserve my angst for English professors who continue to preach how great Moby Dick is to their students.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 08:29:24 PM
How many pages is it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 13, 2013, 08:37:15 PM
It's too long if you don't like Wales.  Welshmen are annoying.
"Call me Ismael." My ass!! Call you a long winded motherhumper.
That's what I'll do.  Call you a paid by the word zillionaire, old dead white guy!
Anyway, gives Lit a bad name.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 13, 2013, 08:40:44 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 13, 2013, 08:29:24 PM
How many pages is it?

I think the copy I have is around 1000 to 1200 pages of complete crap.  Details upon detail and retelling the same crap over and over again.  I want to visit Melville's grave just to yell at him a little bit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 13, 2013, 09:43:47 PM
There was this whale.  There was this guy obsessed with killing it.  There was a megaton of symbolism.
A bunch of shit happened and the whale smashed the Pequod boat with the guy
and some others in it.  They all died except Ishmael and the whale.  The whale swam away.
Moby Dick is a Sperm whale so it is porn.  Rachael from friends rescues Ishmael
so he doesn't die 'til after the story is over.  The End.
Now you can skip those classes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 14, 2013, 03:54:44 AM
Quote from: Longdan on January 13, 2013, 09:43:47 PM
There was this whale.  There was this guy obsessed with killing it.  There was a megaton of symbolism.
A bunch of shit happened and the whale smashed the Pequod boat with the guy
and some others in it.  They all died except Ishmael and the whale.  The whale swam away.
Moby Dick is a Sperm whale so it is porn.  Rachael from friends rescues Ishmael
so he doesn't die 'til after the story is over.  The End.
Now you can skip those classes.
Sadly, this is an accurate summation of the book.  Even more sadly, that's all one really needs to know. 

I *did* read the bloody thing, and I devoutly wish I hadn't.  That was two months of my life that I will never get back. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on January 14, 2013, 07:49:01 AM
Anybody try Last of the Mohicans? Tried three times and just could not stand it. :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 14, 2013, 07:55:36 AM
Quote from: Barthheart on January 14, 2013, 07:49:01 AM
Anybody try Last of the Mohicans? Tried three times and just could not stand it. :P

It's on my Kindle and subsequently on the list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2013, 09:10:26 AM
Quote from: Barthheart on January 14, 2013, 07:49:01 AM
Anybody try Last of the Mohicans? Tried three times and just could not stand it. :P

My understanding is that just about any film version is better than the book, so with the Daniel Day Lewis version in my library I don't care to risk my time testing out that impression.

Mark Twain wrote an utterly SCATHING epic critical takedown of Fennimore's series once, though. I read that every few years or so.  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 14, 2013, 10:07:42 AM
Quote from: Barthheart on January 14, 2013, 07:49:01 AM
Anybody try Last of the Mohicans? Tried three times and just could not stand it. :P
Quote from: Bison on January 14, 2013, 07:55:36 AM
Quote from: Barthheart on January 14, 2013, 07:49:01 AM
Anybody try Last of the Mohicans? Tried three times and just could not stand it. :P

It's on my Kindle and subsequently on the list.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!! 


You fools!  Do not shoot that tank!  You'll never be able to get those weeks/months of your life back, I promise you! 

Honest to God, I'd sooner watch the grass grow than read another of Cooper's books.  That man can make anything boring. 





Quote from: JasonPratt on January 14, 2013, 09:10:26 AM
My understanding is that just about any film version is better than the book,
Correct.  If you've already watched the movie (doesn't matter which one), then there's no reason to read the book.  Ever. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 14, 2013, 10:13:17 AM
there must be an exception to the film/book rule
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 14, 2013, 10:21:39 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on January 14, 2013, 10:13:17 AM
there must be an exception to the film/book rule
There is indeed.  James Fenimore Cooper's novels are but one example. 


I find Stephen King is another, at least when it comes to films based on his "short" stories.  (I can't comment on his other stuff, as I'm not a horror fan.)  I own The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, and Stand By Me on DVD; I've also read the novellas on which they're based.  In every case, it turns out I prefer the movie. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 14, 2013, 11:06:55 AM
Quote from: Martok on January 14, 2013, 10:21:39 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on January 14, 2013, 10:13:17 AM
there must be an exception to the film/book rule
There is indeed.  James Fenimore Cooper's novels are but one example. 


I find Stephen King is another, at least when it comes to films based on his "short" stories.  (I can't comment on his other stuff, as I'm not a horror fan.)  I own The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, and Stand By Me on DVD; I've also read the novellas on which they're based.  In every case, it turns out I prefer the movie.

my dad and i stayed up til 2am once after we'd both read Christine - book = great (well, i thought so then), film = pants, total pants

On that subject, ive never understood why directors/story writers change details from the book that seem so inconsequential - fine you could make the film too long or end up down a dead end part of the story but simple facts
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on January 14, 2013, 03:22:47 PM
Quote from: Barthheart on January 14, 2013, 07:49:01 AM
Anybody try Last of the Mohicans? Tried three times and just could not stand it. :P

I've read it but damn was it a slog. Oof. Not even so much the writing itself but the style...the way the written word has changed since the 1700's when that bad boy was written is pretty startling.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on January 14, 2013, 06:20:22 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 14, 2013, 10:07:42 AM



You fools!  Do not shoot that tank!  You'll never be able to get those weeks/months of your life back, I promise you! 

Honest to God, I'd sooner watch the grass grow than read another of Cooper's books.  That man can make anything boring. 



His non-fiction works on naval warfare are actually pretty interesting to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 14, 2013, 06:35:12 PM
Between the florid prose and stuff the story goes like this:
French and their Indians are bad.  English are kinda dumb dicks
with cute daughters.  One American is smarter and craftier than
Batman and he owns a couple of Good Indians (soon to be extinct).
They all fight in a freakin overload of adverbs and adjectives and sh*t flying
all over and the cute chix get kidnapped by the Bad French Influenced Indians
who run away.  Nancy*, the smart American guy chases them all over.
They catch them and the bad Indians shank the one chic who then dies from it.
The young Good Indian gets caught up in some lurid prose and offs himself.
There is no Cialis and the other Good Indian is old so that's it for the good ones
game over.    *better than Natty Bummpo
The other chic gets rescued.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 15, 2013, 03:51:21 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on January 14, 2013, 11:06:55 AM
Quote from: Martok on January 14, 2013, 10:21:39 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on January 14, 2013, 10:13:17 AM
there must be an exception to the film/book rule
There is indeed.  James Fenimore Cooper's novels are but one example. 


I find Stephen King is another, at least when it comes to films based on his "short" stories.  (I can't comment on his other stuff, as I'm not a horror fan.)  I own The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, and Stand By Me on DVD; I've also read the novellas on which they're based.  In every case, it turns out I prefer the movie.

my dad and i stayed up til 2am once after we'd both read Christine - book = great (well, i thought so then), film = pants, total pants

On that subject, ive never understood why directors/story writers change details from the book that seem so inconsequential - fine you could make the film too long or end up down a dead end part of the story but simple facts
By the by, I should say I *did* like all three published stories -- "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption", "The Green Mile", & "The Body" (off of which Stand By Me is based).  They are good reads; I just happen to like their respective film versions more. 





Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on January 14, 2013, 06:20:22 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 14, 2013, 10:07:42 AM



You fools!  Do not shoot that tank!  You'll never be able to get those weeks/months of your life back, I promise you! 

Honest to God, I'd sooner watch the grass grow than read another of Cooper's books.  That man can make anything boring. 



His non-fiction works on naval warfare are actually pretty interesting to read.
A pity he didn't stick with non-fiction then. 

I genuinely feel sorry for any high school/college student who has to read one of his novels as an assignment.  I ground my way through The Pathfinder (how/why I chose that for my main book report that semester I'll never know), and got about two chapters into The Last of the Mohicans before I abruptly said "screw this!" and quit.  I think it was the first book I ever didn't finish. 





Quote from: Longdan on January 14, 2013, 06:35:12 PM
Between the florid prose and stuff the story goes like this:
French and their Indians are bad.  English are kinda dumb dicks
with cute daughters.  One American is smarter and craftier than
Batman and he owns a couple of Good Indians (soon to be extinct).
They all fight in a freakin overload of adverbs and adjectives and sh*t flying
all over and the cute chix get kidnapped by the Bad French Influenced Indians
who run away.  Nancy*, the smart American guy chases them all over.
They catch them and the bad Indians shank the one chic who then dies from it.
The young Good Indian gets caught up in some lurid prose and offs himself.
There is no Cialis and the other Good Indian is old so that's it for the good ones
game over.    *better than Natty Bummpo
The other chic gets rescued.
Yep.  That's pretty much it. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 15, 2013, 06:20:21 PM
Quote from: Longdan on January 08, 2013, 07:12:48 PM
How was the spelling?

Much better than mine without a spellchecker
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 15, 2013, 07:53:41 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on January 09, 2013, 02:23:40 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on January 08, 2013, 05:46:30 PM
I read this awhile ago.  The concepts where good, but the writing was awlful. 

Interesting, I thought the writing was excellent; the story just seemed to flow nicely, all the characters seemed to react to events realistically, dialogue was great and there was lots of moral ambiguity.What didn't you like? I may be biased as the book feels like a combination of my favourite scifi setting (2300AD RPG ) and one of my favourite wargames (Attack Vector:Tactical, one of the most realistic starship combat games out there). I loved it.

It's been awhile since I read it, but scanning it, here is an example.

Quote
Before he departed Boulder, Neil and his friends, Rand, Cade, and Carlos Encinias, a junior still a year away from his commission, had hit the bars in Denver for what Rand called "a proper drunkening."  It was a blur in Neil's memory.  Rand the extrovert cracked jokes and spent money and talked up the women, with Neil in his usual role as wingman.  Cade, normally brittle in social situations, drank enough to relax and enjoy himself.  Neil sobered up early to herd everyone to the train back to campus.  It was a futile effort:  The train had broken down again, and they were forced to stay the night in the city.  Rand picked up the hotel tab.

This is a paragraph from page 50.  I really cannot figure out what it has to do with the story being told as a whole.  On top of that, in my opinion, it reads like it was written for a sixth grader.

Like I said, I like the concept for the book, and if there is a sequel, I'll get it.  But it needs a good editor. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 15, 2013, 08:55:37 PM
Like Dan Brown?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 16, 2013, 12:32:06 AM
So, I'm pretty excited.

I read A LOT.  But my biggest problem is that, like with computer games, I have real issues with actually finishing a book.  Just like I enjoy playing monster wargames, so I also enjoy reading really long books (meaning greater than 400 pages).  And, I'm usually reading more than one at a time, something I picked up from grad school where I had to split my time among multiple subjects.  Now I have a lot of trouble sticking with one book through its duration.

So, I have a lot of books I've read half of and then moved on, and when I pick them back up I feel compelled to start from the beginning again...and again...and again.  Therefore, when I actually get to the true end of a book, I feel a sense of accomplishment, and I get really excited to move to a completely new book guilt free.

I'm there now, just finishing up The Deluge (Volume 2 of 2) by Henryk Sienkiewicz.  In print the two volumes clock in at over 1800 pages, and added to the first book of the trilogy, With Fire and Sword, we're talking more than 2500 pages!  I'm within 100 pages of finishing vol 2 and I can move on to a new book...whew!

I'm sort of torn because I have several I'd like to get into and I want to pick the right one.  I have previously started The Three Musketeers, which I've never read and I feel like I should read once.  I also have Ivanhoe in the queue.  I read one of Scott's books previously (The Talisman) and I loved it until the last 50 pages or so, when the ending just completely fell apart.  So I'm a bit leery of going down the Scott route again.

Finally, Sienkiewicz has a different book not related to his famous trilogy called Knights of the Cross, about the Teutonic Knights.  I've been grooving to start a Teutonic Knights book to go along with my Real Warfare gaming, so I'm leaning towards it.  Also, so far Sienkiewicz has been a real winner with me.  I don't know what it is, but his books just hit a sweet spot. 

At any rate, I'm in a good place with a lot of interesting options.  And, all of these books are available for FREE on the Kindle through Amazon, so it's win-win.

Linky to Knights: http://www.amazon.com/knights-cross-Krzyzacy-Henryk-Sienkiewicz/dp/B00085CF0A/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1358313269&sr=1-3&keywords=the+teutonic+knights+henryk+sienkiewicz

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 16, 2013, 01:30:27 AM
I do not think this has been brought up for discussion:

http://www.nybooks.com/books/imprints/classics/the-long-ships/

If you can find this it is a great adventure novel and hard to believe it was written
in 1954.  The style is fresh and really "feels" like a Viking story.
Note the review by Michael Chabon a well known modern author.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 16, 2013, 06:59:35 AM
^Longships is on my Kindle waiting behind at least two other e-books (Mongoliad being one) and three p-books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 16, 2013, 08:28:57 AM
Toonces read Ivanhoe. Staggerwing I have the Mongoliad in my queue but when I get to it depends on how quickly I finish some other books and clear the deck for some space sci fi reading to go along with the release of Aliens: Colonial Marines.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 16, 2013, 06:47:47 PM
The Three Musketeers is an awesome book.  Highly recommend reading this one straight away Toonces.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on January 16, 2013, 07:33:30 PM
Bison, I'm curious did you ever see the two parter movie starring Michael York?  Three Musketeers and Four Musketeers.
Really enjoyed that, and ended up thinking it was better than the novel itself.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072281/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 16, 2013, 07:35:49 PM
I've seen the Three Musketeer movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 17, 2013, 04:04:27 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 16, 2013, 06:47:47 PM
The Three Musketeers is an awesome book.  Highly recommend reading this one straight away Toonces.
I enjoyed that one as well.  I do love me some Dumas!  He's probably my favorite 19th century author, even more than Edgar Allen Poe and Mark Twain. 


I also recommend The Count of Monte Cristo.  It's absolutely the best revenge tale I've ever read. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 17, 2013, 04:44:56 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 17, 2013, 04:04:27 PM
I also recommend The Count of Monte Cristo.  It's absolutely the best revenge tale I've ever read.

I thought that the movie was quite enjoyable too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 17, 2013, 09:09:56 PM
Ivanhoe is the grandaddy of the modern historical romance.  Heroes, sword fights, villains, racism, lascivious leers, mustache twirling,
hidden kings and all sorts of other stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 18, 2013, 01:19:11 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on January 17, 2013, 04:44:56 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 17, 2013, 04:04:27 PM
I also recommend The Count of Monte Cristo.  It's absolutely the best revenge tale I've ever read.

I thought that the movie was quite enjoyable too.
It is; I own it.  :) 





Quote from: Longdan on January 17, 2013, 09:09:56 PM
Ivanhoe is the grandaddy of the modern historical romance.  Heroes, sword fights, villains, racism, lascivious leers, mustache twirling,
hidden kings and all sorts of other stuff.
You know, I never have read it.  I may need to rectify that. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 19, 2013, 03:46:22 PM
I'm trying to get through The Three Musketeers, but that is some hard reading.  I remember thinking the same thing the last time I attempted it.

I'm going to stick with it a bit longer, but man, I just don't see me going the distance with this one.  I mean, it's a classic and everyone says it's great, so I'm trying to use that as motivation to keep going.  But Ugh... ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on January 19, 2013, 04:33:01 PM
Toonces, try the Michael York, Three Musketeers movie.  It is a scream and if anything can make you want to read the whole novel, the movie isgreat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on January 19, 2013, 07:48:12 PM
Rise of the Fighter Generals: The Problems of Air Force Leadership, 1945-1982
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on January 24, 2013, 09:37:17 PM
I'm just starting Termite Hill by Tom Wilson
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 24, 2013, 11:26:31 PM
I just started Apocalypse Z
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 25, 2013, 12:47:17 AM
I just finished The Birth of the Nazis: How the Freikorps Blazed A Trail For Hitler by Nigel Jones. I just now started The Perils Of Peace by Thomas Fleming.  It details the two years following Yorktown.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 25, 2013, 12:58:18 PM
Inspired by our conversation from the other thread, I've just started The Red Badge of Courage; it's the first time I've reread it in ages. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 26, 2013, 08:08:30 PM
After finishing The Shining I moved on to The Ritual by Adam Neville, a much more recent and excellent horror story. And a quick read too, I am almost done with it after about 6 days. I think I am moving on to Neuromancer next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 27, 2013, 10:21:40 AM
I'll be interested to hear what you think of Neuromancer, Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 27, 2013, 06:39:30 PM
Just started it this morning, only about 10 pages in. I've been on a great roll lately, finishing up books in days instead of weeks. Making more room on my bookcases for...more :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 27, 2013, 08:50:48 PM
I have been thinking about getting one of them kobo or kindle or whatever newfangled thingy they are.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 27, 2013, 11:19:48 PM
Kindles are pretty sweet but I seem to recall Migs or someone saying that there was an issue getting the books off Amazon in Canada.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on January 28, 2013, 07:35:13 AM
Collapse by Jared Diamond, his follow-up to Guns, Germs, and Steel.  I just finished 1493: Uncovering the World Columbus Created by Charles C. Mann.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on January 28, 2013, 07:39:07 AM
Quote from: Longdan on January 27, 2013, 08:50:48 PM
I have been thinking about getting one of them kobo or kindle or whatever newfangled thingy they are.

I absolutely love mine.  Beats carrying 20 pounds of books all over the world like I used to.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 28, 2013, 08:03:29 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on January 28, 2013, 07:35:13 AM
Collapse by Jared Diamond, his follow-up to Guns, Germs, and Steel.  I just finished 1493: Uncovering the World Columbus Created by Charles C. Mann.

Guns, Germs, and Steel was pretty good.  I found some of his hypothesis in Collapse to be a little far fetched to be honest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on January 28, 2013, 09:02:56 AM
Quote from: Bison on January 28, 2013, 08:03:29 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on January 28, 2013, 07:35:13 AM
Collapse by Jared Diamond, his follow-up to Guns, Germs, and Steel.  I just finished 1493: Uncovering the World Columbus Created by Charles C. Mann.

Guns, Germs, and Steel was pretty good.  I found some of his hypothesis in Collapse to be a little far fetched to be honest.

I'm just starting it.  Honestly what I enjoy most is what I learn from the book via his vignettes and arguments.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 28, 2013, 11:33:23 AM
On the Kindle topic, my parents wanted to buy me one a couple of years ago for Christmas, and I let them talk me into doing it. I love physical books, though, of which I still have a ton sitting around I haven't read, so for a year the poor thing languished over in a corner on its charger. :(

The spring after the NEXT Christmas, I wanted to grab some various Bible translations for research--which isn't always cheap by the way--and I figured the Kindle would lend itself to that pretty well. So I got those four translations, which ironically I'm sure I've never read over ten pages total between them (having found some other research texts that were more helpful), and that led to me importing my pdf and doc files to the Kindle for ease of access, which led to me buying some old scanned books from Amazon that had been Kindleized (not very well by the way, buyer beware), which led to me having several hundred things on my Kindle today. I even rebought most of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series (having stopped before Crossroads of Twilight), so I could read through it again in preparation for the grand finale.

So I guess I like it. (But get the model with satellite linkage.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 28, 2013, 11:48:21 AM
Quote from: Bison on January 28, 2013, 08:03:29 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on January 28, 2013, 07:35:13 AM
Collapse by Jared Diamond, his follow-up to Guns, Germs, and Steel.  I just finished 1493: Uncovering the World Columbus Created by Charles C. Mann.

Guns, Germs, and Steel was pretty good.  I found some of his hypothesis in Collapse to be a little far fetched to be honest.
That's honest and to be honest no surprise.  I think Jared Diamond is a visionary.  He has a very interesting background.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 29, 2013, 07:29:46 AM
Yawn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 11:44:14 AM
Thank You.  Return to bible study.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 29, 2013, 12:53:15 PM
Neuromancer is ok, I am 50 pages in. It's a good compliment while playing Deux Ex: Human Revolution.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 29, 2013, 04:36:27 PM
Quote from: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 11:44:14 AM
Thank You.  Return to bible study.

Yawn. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 05:41:39 PM
I enjoy the fact that you feel you must express your contempt in such an adult manner.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on January 29, 2013, 06:06:54 PM
If the ignorant knew they were ignorant... would that make them any less ignorant? Therefore, could they truly be ingnorant?

MAD GENIUSES ALL!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 29, 2013, 06:25:02 PM
Quote from: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 05:41:39 PM
I enjoy the fact that you feel you must express your contempt in such an adult manner.

Yawn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 29, 2013, 06:46:22 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 29, 2013, 06:25:02 PM
Quote from: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 05:41:39 PM
I enjoy the fact that you feel you must express your contempt in such an adult manner.

Yawn.

I see your yawn and raise you a ho-hum.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 29, 2013, 06:56:16 PM
Apocolypse Z is an incredibly fast read.  Maybe it's just reading about zombies that makes the pages turn so quickly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 07:57:33 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 29, 2013, 06:46:22 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 29, 2013, 06:25:02 PM
Quote from: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 05:41:39 PM
I enjoy the fact that you feel you must express your contempt in such an adult manner.

Yawn.

I see your yawn and raise you a ho-hum.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 29, 2013, 09:07:25 PM
You forgot your witty retort.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 29, 2013, 09:25:02 PM
Time to set an example for our younger readers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 30, 2013, 11:03:55 AM
Eh, any technical work is yawny for anyone not a hardcore geek about the topic, and not everyone cares about the topic (pro or con) in the first place. I'm not offended. :) Many people would find the two books I Kindled on primary source analysis of Vietnam War policies yawnish, too-or-instead.

The illustrative point, aside from the weird roundabout way I got hooked on buying for Kindle, is that I've found it (somewhat) useful for research purposes, especially for helping search through documents. On the other hand it completely sucks for footnote reference purposes, and the Kindle's aggressive reformatting of the text can lead to problems. PDF files don't have either of those problems (for footnotes anyway--endnotes are even more difficult to access), because they're literally photoscans of pages, but I find I usually have to flip the screen to landscape mode (wider than tall) in order to zoom in enough for PDF texts to be feasibly readable. Also, being photoscans, the scans don't always come through very well in the ePearl ink (or whatever it's called. The high-tech version of Etch-a-Sketching usually works great, but not for that purpose.)

I do recommend not only getting one of the older models (thus also less expensive) with a lifetime 3G account built-in, for wireless satellite access anywhere, but also one with a physical keyboard at the bottom. I also recommend getting a journal-cover to protect the device, but only if it comes with a little pull-out light, since the nature of the screen (in b/w, not sure about color) is such that it features no intrinsic lighting at all.

Also, I recommend NOT TRYING TO BUY BOOKS THROUGH THE KINDLE LINK TO AMAZON!! It works, but it's much clumsier and harder to search, than going to Amazon by usual internet routes. (The newer color versions may fix this, hopefully.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 30, 2013, 05:44:20 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 30, 2013, 11:03:55 AM
Also, I recommend NOT TRYING TO BUY BOOKS THROUGH THE KINDLE LINK TO AMAZON!! It works, but it's much clumsier and harder to search, than going to Amazon by usual internet routes. (The newer color versions may fix this, hopefully.)

This is true.  I also like the fact that as I'm looking a one title there are several recommended titles that cover the same sorts of materials.  I've made many impulse purchases that way.  Wait that might not be a good thing I better think about that for awhile...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on January 30, 2013, 05:47:11 PM
About to crack open Honour the Chapter. More successor Chapter character options for players! Sweetness!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on January 31, 2013, 02:41:54 AM
Quote from: Bison on January 30, 2013, 05:44:20 PM
This is true.  I also like the fact that as I'm looking a one title there are several recommended titles that cover the same sorts of materials.  I've made many impulse purchases that way.  Wait that might not be a good thing I better think about that for awhile...

This is very true, and very dangerous.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 31, 2013, 07:10:58 AM
 The Forever War, by Joe Haldeman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on January 31, 2013, 09:18:14 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1187.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz397%2FSoccerDJ04%2FAttack-of-the-Deranged-Mutant-Kille.jpg&hash=54b50efa3a6f502c02704b543af5ab58e9361792)

Found some old Calvin and Hobbes books, so yeah I'm doing some heavy reading now :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on January 31, 2013, 10:47:58 AM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on January 31, 2013, 09:18:14 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1187.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz397%2FSoccerDJ04%2FAttack-of-the-Deranged-Mutant-Kille.jpg&hash=54b50efa3a6f502c02704b543af5ab58e9361792)

Found some old Calvin and Hobbes books, so yeah I'm doing some heavy reading now :)

In all seriousness, Calvin and Hobbes may be the pinnacle of American literary achievement  :).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on January 31, 2013, 11:10:53 AM
Quote from: Bison on January 31, 2013, 07:10:58 AM
The Forever War, by Joe Haldeman.

Probably my favourite SF book of all time. Re-read my copy until the pages fell out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on January 31, 2013, 11:23:08 AM
Quote from: Barthheart on January 31, 2013, 11:10:53 AM
Quote from: Bison on January 31, 2013, 07:10:58 AM
The Forever War, by Joe Haldeman.

Probably my favourite SF book of all time. Re-read my copy until the pages fell out.

I read it many yarens ago.  It is full of interesting concepts, many of which others have gleefully stolen.
It is a real post-Viet Nam novel actually written while that carnival was still in progress.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 31, 2013, 12:11:18 PM
Having just finished The Red Badge of Courage, I've now begun rereading another book (or rather, omnibus volume in this case) that I've not looked at in ages:  The Complete Sherlock Holmes

Not surprisingly, I'm starting with A Study in Scarlet, the very first book.  I don't intend to read all the stories straight through -- I think I'd prefer to intersperse them among books of other genres -- but we'll see what happens. 





Quote from: TheCommandTent on January 31, 2013, 09:18:14 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1187.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz397%2FSoccerDJ04%2FAttack-of-the-Deranged-Mutant-Kille.jpg&hash=54b50efa3a6f502c02704b543af5ab58e9361792)

Found some old Calvin and Hobbes books, so yeah I'm doing some heavy reading now :)
Excellent!  I've still got all the books somewhere in a box upstairs.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 31, 2013, 01:52:30 PM
This reminds me that I totally intend to donate my Calv/Hobbes books to my nieces someday soon.  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 31, 2013, 02:41:18 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on January 31, 2013, 10:47:58 AM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on January 31, 2013, 09:18:14 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1187.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fz397%2FSoccerDJ04%2FAttack-of-the-Deranged-Mutant-Kille.jpg&hash=54b50efa3a6f502c02704b543af5ab58e9361792)

Found some old Calvin and Hobbes books, so yeah I'm doing some heavy reading now :)

In all seriousness, Calvin and Hobbes may be the pinnacle of American literary achievement  :).
Oh hey, look who's here!  (Gah, I'm slow on the uptake today...)  Hope you're staying out of trouble over there, man.  :) 


In any case, you may well be correct.  Definitely my favorite comic strip of all time -- one of the all-time greats, right up there with Peanuts IMHO. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 31, 2013, 02:41:58 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 31, 2013, 01:52:30 PM
This reminds me that I totally intend to donate my Calv/Hobbes books to my nieces someday soon.  :)
A most generous donation, good sir.  I hope they appreciate it! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on January 31, 2013, 03:01:28 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on January 31, 2013, 10:47:58 AM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on January 31, 2013, 09:18:14 AM

Found some old Calvin and Hobbes books, so yeah I'm doing some heavy reading now :)

In all seriousness, Calvin and Hobbes may be the pinnacle of American literary achievement  :).

You sir have good taste in literature.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 31, 2013, 08:13:53 PM
I believe there to be a triumverate at the top: Calvin and Hobbes, Bloom County and FoxTrot.  Honorable mention to The Far Side.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on February 01, 2013, 06:58:25 AM
Over the Hedge has its moments.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on February 01, 2013, 08:29:52 AM
As does Dilbert.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on February 01, 2013, 10:48:35 AM
I love Dilbert...the total summation of corporate dysfunction.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 01, 2013, 10:51:54 AM
Calvin & Hobbes, The Far Side, Bloom County, and Dilbert formed my personal comic strip quadrumvirate in the days of old.  Nowadays it's just Dilbert and Zits for me. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 01, 2013, 01:45:54 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 31, 2013, 08:13:53 PM
I believe there to be a triumverate at the top: Calvin and Hobbes, Bloom County and FoxTrot.  Honorable mention to The Far Side.

Ditto but (as noted subsequently by others) I'd include Dilbert in the quadrumverate. Or quadruminate. One of those.

(Far Side I respect for its contributions to the culture, but I wouldn't rank it higher than honorable mention.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 01, 2013, 06:16:58 PM
Far Side no higher then honorable mention?!?!

buncha frakin heretics ya are!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 02, 2013, 06:07:05 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 31, 2013, 08:13:53 PM
I believe there to be a triumverate at the top: Calvin and Hobbes, Bloom County and FoxTrot.  Honorable mention to The Far Side.

Full agreement on your top 3, MD. Those are my all time favorites and in that order.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on February 03, 2013, 12:51:07 PM
Just picked this up.  Looks really interesting.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/book-review-engineers-of-victory-by-paul-kennedy-about-world-war-iis-innovators/2013/02/01/5af6b9ce-38d2-11e2-b01f-5f55b193f58f_story.html
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 03, 2013, 04:01:34 PM
Just finished Neuromancer. I skimmed the 2nd half. I can see how influential and visionary it is, but TBH I didn't find it to be that entertaining. It felt kind of too-cool-for-school, and I wasn't invited to the party. All of these neat little pioneering techs but a little more explanation of wtf was going on would have been nice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 03, 2013, 10:37:32 PM
I never got into cyberpunk.  Not a fan of Blade Runner or Shadowrun either.  But it's a classic, so, you gotta read it.  Having said that, I liked it better than you. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 04, 2013, 09:17:13 AM
Well at least I can claim I tried. Onward.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on February 04, 2013, 04:00:22 PM
Let's write a story:

http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=Pirates+and+global+wariming&view=detail&id=73B2D9F9F27E05CE1DCE8FBFB1E1954F039E56A8&FORM=IDFRIR
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on February 10, 2013, 02:26:42 AM
Finished The Forever War.  It was ok.  I'm not sure what I was expecting but whatever it was I'm pretty sure I didn't get it.  Overall I felt pretty meh about it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 10, 2013, 02:29:59 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 03, 2013, 10:37:32 PM
I never got into cyberpunk.  Not a fan of Blade Runner or Shadowrun either.  But it's a classic, so, you gotta read it.  Having said that, I liked it better than you.


not a fan of Blade Runner?

the Grognati must convene to discuss your fate.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on February 10, 2013, 02:49:20 AM
Picked up "Childhood's End" by Arthur C. Clarke at the library today. Been awhile.......
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on February 10, 2013, 08:22:28 AM
Wow, Doc, haven't looked at a Clarke piece since Rendezous with Rama.
Never warmed to him, quite like Heinlein and Asimov.  Maybe worth a look now that I'm old and Groggy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 10, 2013, 09:18:44 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on February 10, 2013, 02:29:59 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 03, 2013, 10:37:32 PM
I never got into cyberpunk.  Not a fan of Blade Runner or Shadowrun either.  But it's a classic, so, you gotta read it.  Having said that, I liked it better than you.


not a fan of Blade Runner?

the Grognati must convene to discuss your fate.

For my sins, I will write a beginners AAR for Warlock Master of the Arcane (going on now in the Digital AAR section).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on February 10, 2013, 10:05:38 AM
Quote from: Bison on February 10, 2013, 02:26:42 AM
Finished The Forever War.  It was ok.  I'm not sure what I was expecting but whatever it was I'm pretty sure I didn't get it.  Overall I felt pretty meh about it.

Have you read Old Man's War by John Scalzi? You might like it more than The Forever War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on February 10, 2013, 10:24:22 AM
Looks interesting.  I've put it on the Amazon list for a future Kindle purchase.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 10, 2013, 10:52:02 AM
^Sounds like you felt the same way about The Forever War as I did about Neuromancer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 10, 2013, 11:17:50 AM
Quote from: Shelldrake on February 10, 2013, 10:05:38 AM
Quote from: Bison on February 10, 2013, 02:26:42 AM
Finished The Forever War.  It was ok.  I'm not sure what I was expecting but whatever it was I'm pretty sure I didn't get it.  Overall I felt pretty meh about it.

Have you read Old Man's War by John Scalzi? You might like it more than The Forever War.

^ +1 on Old Man's War. It was heavily influenced by Forever War but I think Shell is right in that it might be a little more up your alley as it was also influenced by Starship Troopers. The author makes no bones about this either, a point in his favor. Also, if you like it there are sequels- another plus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 10, 2013, 11:49:38 AM
Am now a fair ways into Poul Anderson's Boat of a Million Years.  It's proven to be a surprisingly good read so far (not that I was expecting rubbish, but it's still better than I was anticipating). 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 10, 2013, 02:09:52 PM
Boat of a Million Years is a terrific book. It stuck with me for a long time. Poul Anderson has written a number of great books involving a mix of Scifi, History, and Myth. The Shield of Time series is a connected collection of historical What ifs. They involve a kind of temporal Interpol that had to keep policing the historical time-line after time travel gets into the hands of terrorists and profiteers. Three of the best novellas in that collection are Delenda Est, Star of the Sea, and The Sorrows of Odin the Goth. AFAIK you can get them all in various compilations.

Anderson has also written historical retellings of some of the Viking Sagas as well as mythological fantasies such as The King of Ys (a mix of Celtic myths and early Christianity) and War of the Gods which superimposes the Aesir-Vanir War over the tale of King Hadding (Hadingus) of Denmark
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 11, 2013, 12:06:18 AM
I'm kind of in a reading slump right now.

I'm struggling with the third book in the Fire and Sword trilogy called Pan Michael.  It is really dragging.  From what I understand it picks up about halfway through, but when you're talking about a 1000 page book that's a lot of buy-in before the payoff.  At any rate, I just feel compelled to finish this series. 

I'm also reading Mr. Lincoln's Army by Bruce Catton having just finished his Civil War trilogy.  I like the way he writes, but McClellan really annoys me and I'm boring of reading about him in a big way.  Also, this book retreads a lot of ground the trilogy covered.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on February 11, 2013, 07:53:27 AM
Quote from: Martok on February 10, 2013, 11:49:38 AM
Am now a fair ways into Poul Anderson's Boat of a Million Years.  It's proven to be a surprisingly good read so far (not that I was expecting rubbish, but it's still better than I was anticipating).

Poul Anderson has always been a favorite of mine since I first read The Broken Sword as a teenager. The High Crusade, also by Anderson, is a fun romp even if it isn't very deep.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on February 11, 2013, 09:16:41 AM
I just finished Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay. I will start reading NYPD Red by James Patterson next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on February 11, 2013, 12:52:11 PM
Has anyone read the Age of..  books by James Lovegrove.  I don't think they are series, but individual books written along the same lines. 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/age-of-ra-james-lovegrove/1101073863?ean=9781844167470
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 11, 2013, 01:51:13 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 10, 2013, 02:09:52 PM
Boat of a Million Years is a terrific book. It stuck with me for a long time. Poul Anderson has written a number of great books involving a mix of Scifi, History, and Myth. The Shield of Time series is a connected collection of historical What ifs. They involve a kind of temporal Interpol that had to keep policing the historical time-line after time travel gets into the hands of terrorists and profiteers. Three of the best novellas in that collection are Delenda Est, Star of the Sea, and The Sorrows of Odin the Goth. AFAIK you can get them all in various compilations.

Anderson has also written historical retellings of some of the Viking Sagas as well as mythological fantasies such as The King of Ys (a mix of Celtic myths and early Christianity) and War of the Gods which superimposes the Aesir-Vanir War over the tale of King Hadding (Hadingus) of Denmark
Quote from: Shelldrake on February 11, 2013, 07:53:27 AM
Poul Anderson has always been a favorite of mine since I first read The Broken Sword as a teenager. The High Crusade, also by Anderson, is a fun romp even if it isn't very deep.
Thanks for the recommendations, gents.  One of my friends owns most of Anderson's books (including the copy of Boat I'm currently reading), so I'll see about borrowing those other stories from her as well. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on February 11, 2013, 03:56:37 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 11, 2013, 12:52:11 PM
Has anyone read the Age of..  books by James Lovegrove.  I don't think they are series, but individual books written along the same lines. 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/age-of-ra-james-lovegrove/1101073863?ean=9781844167470

I recently read The Age of Odin. A bit slow at the start but once it got going I couldn't put it down!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on February 11, 2013, 04:02:46 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 11, 2013, 12:52:11 PM
Has anyone read the Age of..  books by James Lovegrove.  I don't think they are series, but individual books written along the same lines. 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/age-of-ra-james-lovegrove/1101073863?ean=9781844167470

I read Age of Ra last year and quite liked it. Chapters alternated from the point of view of the humans involved and the Egyptian pantheon (who in this one had defeated the other gods). The various Egyptian Gods have their own nations of followers who are declaring wars and such based on the wills of their masters, but the Gods themselves are constantly squabbling with each other, too. His way of writing the dialogue of the Gods as being very profane and flawed and not as 'ethereal' as a lot of others usually do was something I really liked about it.

I've got Age of Zeus sitting on my 'to read' stack.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on February 11, 2013, 08:31:06 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 11, 2013, 04:02:46 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 11, 2013, 12:52:11 PM
Has anyone read the Age of..  books by James Lovegrove.  I don't think they are series, but individual books written along the same lines. 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/age-of-ra-james-lovegrove/1101073863?ean=9781844167470

I read Age of Ra last year and quite liked it. Chapters alternated from the point of view of the humans involved and the Egyptian pantheon (who in this one had defeated the other gods). The various Egyptian Gods have their own nations of followers who are declaring wars and such based on the wills of their masters, but the Gods themselves are constantly squabbling with each other, too. His way of writing the dialogue of the Gods as being very profane and flawed and not as 'ethereal' as a lot of others usually do was something I really liked about it.

I've got Age of Zeus sitting on my 'to read' stack.

So, am I correct that these are all stand alone books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on February 11, 2013, 09:05:50 PM
Well I'm returning to ancient Rome and the adventures of Gordianus the Finder in Steven Saylor's Roma Sub Rosa series.  Good quick reading mystery novels.  Well A Gladiator Dies Only Once is a collection of short stories but they help flesh out the characters.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 11, 2013, 09:49:44 PM
Just started A History of the English Speaking Peoples Since 1900 by Andrew Roberts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on February 12, 2013, 01:44:31 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 11, 2013, 08:31:06 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 11, 2013, 04:02:46 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 11, 2013, 12:52:11 PM
Has anyone read the Age of..  books by James Lovegrove.  I don't think they are series, but individual books written along the same lines. 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/age-of-ra-james-lovegrove/1101073863?ean=9781844167470

I read Age of Ra last year and quite liked it. Chapters alternated from the point of view of the humans involved and the Egyptian pantheon (who in this one had defeated the other gods). The various Egyptian Gods have their own nations of followers who are declaring wars and such based on the wills of their masters, but the Gods themselves are constantly squabbling with each other, too. His way of writing the dialogue of the Gods as being very profane and flawed and not as 'ethereal' as a lot of others usually do was something I really liked about it.

I've got Age of Zeus sitting on my 'to read' stack.

So, am I correct that these are all stand alone books.

You know, I'm not really sure. They would almost have to be, though.

Yeah, a quick look around online seems to indicate that they are all stand alone.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 12, 2013, 09:37:46 AM
I'm about half way through Six Frigates by Ian W. Toll before I start to tackle the Patrick O'Brien novels for the first time.  Looking forward to it.  Toll's book is very well written.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 13, 2013, 05:31:10 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on February 12, 2013, 09:37:46 AM
I'm about half way through Six Frigates by Ian W. Toll before I start to tackle the Patrick O'Brien novels for the first time.  Looking forward to it.  Toll's book is very well written.
Fiction or non? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 13, 2013, 07:12:52 AM
Quote from: Martok on February 13, 2013, 05:31:10 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on February 12, 2013, 09:37:46 AM
I'm about half way through Six Frigates by Ian W. Toll before I start to tackle the Patrick O'Brien novels for the first time.  Looking forward to it.  Toll's book is very well written.
Fiction or non?

Non-fiction.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 13, 2013, 07:16:54 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on February 12, 2013, 09:37:46 AM
I'm about half way through Six Frigates by Ian W. Toll before I start to tackle the Patrick O'Brien novels for the first time.  Looking forward to it.  Toll's book is very well written.

Six Frigates is excellent. So is Toll's latest, Pacific Crucible.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 13, 2013, 11:09:20 PM
Quote from: mirth on February 13, 2013, 07:16:54 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on February 12, 2013, 09:37:46 AM
I'm about half way through Six Frigates by Ian W. Toll before I start to tackle the Patrick O'Brien novels for the first time.  Looking forward to it.  Toll's book is very well written.

Six Frigates is excellent. So is Toll's latest, Pacific Crucible.

I finished Pacific Crucible a few weeks ago, really enjoyed it.  That's what convinced me to pick up Six Frigates on my kindle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 23, 2013, 01:29:49 PM
Pacific Crucible looks really good. It's got a lot of positive reviews on Amazon too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on February 23, 2013, 02:05:50 PM
Ghosts in the Fog: The Untold Story of Alaska's WWII Invasion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 23, 2013, 10:35:07 PM
^^ That sounds awesome beyond reason, btw.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 23, 2013, 10:43:31 PM
I am about to start The Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895: Perceptions, Power and Primacy by SCM Paine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 23, 2013, 11:09:21 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 23, 2013, 10:43:31 PM
I am about to start The Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895: Perceptions, Power and Primacy by SCM Paine.

Ten years before Port Arthur.  I think I remember reading an article in Military History magazine about that.  Japan kicked their ass in Manchuria.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on February 23, 2013, 11:28:42 PM
Sealing Their Fate: The Twenty-Two Days That Decided World War II by David Downing.
November 17-December 8, 1941.  He argues the war was lost by the bad guys in these critical 3 weeks.
It is a good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 23, 2013, 11:29:29 PM
Funny you mention Port Arthur, 'Phro. After this book I am going to attempt to re-read Rising Sun, Tumbling Bear. I tried to read it about 15 years ago and couldn't finish it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 24, 2013, 06:21:10 AM
That sounds interesting Dan. I'm gonna see if I can see it on amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on February 24, 2013, 11:34:54 AM
I am enjoying it.  Downing writes a lot of entertaining fiction as well so he has a very readable style.
Reminds me a bit of Len Deighton's historical non-fiction.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 24, 2013, 12:49:35 PM
Just finished Anderson's Boat of a Million Years, and am now jumping back to The Complete Sherlock Holmes.  Next up:  A Scandal in Bohemia

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on February 24, 2013, 02:37:58 PM
I just finished Kinsey and Me by Sue Grafton. Next on my agenda is Knights of the Cross by Tom Harper.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 25, 2013, 12:25:46 PM
Quote from: eyebiter on February 23, 2013, 02:05:50 PM
Ghosts in the Fog: The Untold Story of Alaska's WWII Invasion.

I'm going to have to check that one out.  How are you enjoying it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on February 25, 2013, 01:34:54 PM
I'd say the most definitive book about the Aleutian/Alaska campaign is Thousand-Mile War.
http://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Mile-War-Aleutians-Classic-Reprint/dp/0912006838

It's a very good book.  But be warned it's fairly lengthy and can get dry at times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 25, 2013, 02:25:24 PM
^^ Sounds like my romantic life. SOLD!  ;D

(Note: it is conceivably possible that impulse buying things like this corresponds in some significant way to my romantic life...)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on February 25, 2013, 04:14:16 PM
Quote from: Bison on February 25, 2013, 01:34:54 PM
I'd say the most definitive book about the Aleutian/Alaska campaign is Thousand-Mile War.
http://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Mile-War-Aleutians-Classic-Reprint/dp/0912006838

It's a very good book.  But be warned it's fairly lengthy and can get dry at times.
I have had that in paperback since about forever.  I need a new one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on February 26, 2013, 01:29:19 AM
Finally tracked down a copy of the Necessary Evil setting book for Savage Worlds. And I'll continue on Day by Day Armageddon : Shattered Hourglass by J.L. Bourne.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 26, 2013, 01:45:34 AM
I'm about 30% of the way through Ivanhoe.  Once I got over the initial learning curve I've really started to enjoy the story much more.

I'm sitting at about 40% on Pan Michael.  Boy is that book dragging.  But I think it's about to get good, finally.

Lastly, I'm reading The Hobbit aloud to my daughter before bed every night.  She's getting into it. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on February 26, 2013, 06:40:12 AM
(https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/7083631360/h41D88397/)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 26, 2013, 08:24:12 AM
WTF is the deal with that?

Anyway I am tickled that you are reading Ivanhoe and it's not even as a punishment Toonces!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on February 26, 2013, 08:42:38 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmsnbcmedia.msn.com%2Fj%2FMSNBC%2FComponents%2FPhoto%2F_new%2F121127-grumpy-cat-hmed-1003a.photoblog500.jpg&hash=a54e24c1d5ed9229140cd16182ea4d0ec4a1fe33)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 26, 2013, 11:26:22 AM
You have a beautiful pussy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on February 26, 2013, 12:53:36 PM
I'll be starting War of the Worlds tonight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 26, 2013, 02:21:43 PM
One of my favorite all time books. I love HG Wells.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on February 26, 2013, 05:27:15 PM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Hell_Let_Loose

I'm ploughing through this tome at the moment, and it's an enjoyable top down, bottom up look at WW2, in chronological order. I find it's quite entertaining to frame what went on, and when, then pour anecdotal/human interest evidence from the troops and civvies on the ground.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 26, 2013, 09:56:51 PM
Quote from: spelk on February 26, 2013, 05:27:15 PM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Hell_Let_Loose

I'm ploughing through this tome at the moment, and it's an enjoyable top down, bottom up look at WW2, in chronological order. I find it's quite entertaining to frame what went on, and when, then pour anecdotal/human interest evidence from the troops and civvies on the ground.

Yeah, it's quite an eye opener to see a WW2 grand timeline after absorbing everything in small, dense, chunks. To think that Germany was already balls-deep into Russia for almost half a year and had already fought the First Battle of Karkov before any Japanese shallow-running torp had splashed into Pearl Harbor and that the Second Battle of Karkov took place a month before the Wavetop Death Ride of Torpedo Eight opened the skies over the Japanese Fleet can be quite the 'Wow... ' moment.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 01:17:21 AM
Finished Day by Day Armageddon : Shattered Hourglass. It was worth reading, even though the last few chapters could charitably be described as a hurried mess. Good grief.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on February 28, 2013, 08:02:28 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 01:17:21 AM
Finished Day by Day Armageddon : Shattered Hourglass. It was worth reading, even though the last few chapters could charitably be described as a hurried mess. Good grief.

Next book on my to-read list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 05:12:06 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on February 28, 2013, 08:02:28 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 01:17:21 AM
Finished Day by Day Armageddon : Shattered Hourglass. It was worth reading, even though the last few chapters could charitably be described as a hurried mess. Good grief.

Next book on my to-read list.

Curious to hear what you think of it. I liked it well enough, even with a major change to the way it's told, but...yeah. The ending's a bit weird.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on March 02, 2013, 07:36:33 AM
The Corner: A Year in the Life of an Inner-City Neighborhood
David Simon, Ed Burns

Damn is this intense and depressing. it's basically the ying to the yang of  Homicide: A Year on the Killing Streets.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 11, 2013, 06:18:47 PM
A few days ago, I bought a sci-fi book that was Amazon's daily deal.  I don't usually read much sci-fi but the premise sounded interesting and for $1.95 it wasn't really much of a risk.  Anyway, the book is called Alarm of War and it's a very enjoyable read.  It's basically a book about naval combat and tactics, but in space.  It's regularly only $3.89 so if you're into books about admirals being sneaky and giant space ships shooting other giant space ships until they go boom, check it out.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00908EOBE/ref=oh_d__o00_details_o00__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00908EOBE/ref=oh_d__o00_details_o00__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hiimori on March 12, 2013, 03:00:39 AM
Started reading Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth", just because I wanted to know what the fuss is all about. This book is one of the most popular books of all time in Germany and the UK, so I was curious.

So far (page 70), the story is interesting and even somewhat intriguing, but I didn't join the mass hysteria yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 12, 2013, 05:35:00 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 11, 2013, 06:18:47 PM
A few days ago, I bought a sci-fi book that was Amazon's daily deal.  I don't usually read much sci-fi but the premise sounded interesting and for $1.95 it wasn't really much of a risk.  Anyway, the book is called Alarm of War and it's a very enjoyable read.  It's basically a book about naval combat and tactics, but in space.  It's regularly only $3.89 so if you're into books about admirals being sneaky and giant space ships shooting other giant space ships until they go boom, check it out.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00908EOBE/ref=oh_d__o00_details_o00__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00908EOBE/ref=oh_d__o00_details_o00__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

I just read the blurb for the book. Are the various political entities supposed to be analogs to 19th or 20th century historical ones? The 'Victorian Empire' sounds suspiciously like the British Empire.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 12, 2013, 07:04:10 AM
Betwixt reading the various short stories of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, I've also begun Elantris, Brandon Sanderson's first well-known novel.  An intriguing start so far. 




Quote from: Hiimori on March 12, 2013, 03:00:39 AM
Started reading Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth", just because I wanted to know what the fuss is all about. This book is one of the most popular books of all time in Germany and the UK, so I was curious.

So far (page 70), the story is interesting and even somewhat intriguing, but I didn't join the mass hysteria yet.
My reaction while reading it was pretty much the same.  I enjoyed the book well enough, but didn't understand why it was considered such a phenomenon. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 12, 2013, 11:03:48 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on March 12, 2013, 05:35:00 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 11, 2013, 06:18:47 PM
A few days ago, I bought a sci-fi book that was Amazon's daily deal.  I don't usually read much sci-fi but the premise sounded interesting and for $1.95 it wasn't really much of a risk.  Anyway, the book is called Alarm of War and it's a very enjoyable read.  It's basically a book about naval combat and tactics, but in space.  It's regularly only $3.89 so if you're into books about admirals being sneaky and giant space ships shooting other giant space ships until they go boom, check it out.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00908EOBE/ref=oh_d__o00_details_o00__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00908EOBE/ref=oh_d__o00_details_o00__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

I just read the blurb for the book. Are the various political entities supposed to be analogs to 19th or 20th century historical ones? The 'Victorian Empire' sounds suspiciously like the British Empire.

They don't really spend a lot of time going into the background of the various factions.  The Victorians took their name from the colony's founder.  The system he discovered had seven natural wormholes close by, making it an invaluable trading hub.  He named it Victoria Station after a train station in London because of all the transport connections.  It got shortened to Victoria. 

The colony members all do share very English sounding family names though and they did become a monarchy. 

Other factions are the Dominion of Unified Citizenry.  They were the centre of trade until the discovery of Victoria Station.  They're pissed at the loss of trade and loss of several of their colonies who realigned themselves with Victoria.  They don't have much back story or analogue.

The Tilleke Empire are caste based and all have Muslim sounding family names.  Theyre xenophobic, tyrannical, and the real baddies of the book.

Other minor powers are also present.  Cape Breton used to be the major trade centre with its one wormhole until Victoria was discovered.  They're a free port aligned with the DUC.

The Arcadians control access to mining colonies where most fuel comes from so everyone wants them.

The Light is a religious group who are isolationist but do a lot of spying on everyone else.  They all seem to have Chinese names.

Refuge is the only colony that explicitly mentions its origins.  Their colonists came from Israel and Morocco.  The two groups were forced to join together to survive their initial colonization attempt.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on March 12, 2013, 02:46:39 PM
Quote from: Hiimori on March 12, 2013, 03:00:39 AM
Started reading Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth", just because I wanted to know what the fuss is all about. This book is one of the most popular books of all time in Germany and the UK, so I was curious.

So far (page 70), the story is interesting and even somewhat intriguing, but I didn't join the mass hysteria yet.

its the characters that get you hooked
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on March 12, 2013, 02:56:45 PM
The Dominions 3 manual
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 17, 2013, 05:33:19 PM
Just finished "The Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895: Perceptions, Power, and Primacy" and its one of the best books I have read in years.

If you are interested in Russian, Korean, Chinese, Japanese or Pacific history, you will enjoy this book.

Although its academic, its accessible and Paine's writing reminded me of Paul Kennedy's. Kennedy's Rise and Fall of the Great Powers is one of my favorite books of all time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 18, 2013, 05:39:59 AM
^  Cool.  Adding it to The List... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 18, 2013, 10:31:34 PM
Just started Deck Z: The Titanic.  It's about a zombie outbreak on the Titanic.  I bought it when it was on as one of Amazon's daily Kindle specials for $1.95 or something.  I'm only about 1/4 of the way in so far, but I'm enjoying it more than I would've expected to.  Stupid, yes, but fun and decently written so far.     

EDIT: Well, after a promising start, the book turned into a steaming turd about 1/3rd of the way in.  Once the protagonist got on board the Titanic, it's almost as if a different author took over.  Stilted dialogue, boring action scenes, cliches and poor pacing.  Shame as the build up was decent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 23, 2013, 04:54:45 PM
Reading Embers of War: The Fall of an Empire and the Making of America's Vietnam by Frederik Logevall, professor of International Studies at Cornell.
About the interaction between the Vietnamese (all types), French and USA from 1919 until the mid 60's.  An area of special interest for myself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 23, 2013, 05:05:50 PM
That sounds good. I've had a long-time interest in the French Indo-China period. The obvious books are those by Bernard Fall, but 'The Last Valley' is also an excellent, informative, and more recently written book.

The Howard Simpson book on Dien Bien Phu is pretty good as well, although I've yet to get my hands on a copy of the Jules Roy book of the siege.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 23, 2013, 06:45:43 PM
It is tough slogging to read of the lost opportunities and missed chances.  Things did not have to turn out the way that they did.
With so many people rationalising after the fact and trying to make themselves look good it is really hard to sense the truth.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 23, 2013, 06:48:35 PM
Thats certainly true of the French command following Dien Bien Phu. Unfortunately, the wrong conclusions were drawn after Na San with regards to 'Air Heads'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on March 23, 2013, 07:23:58 PM
I am re-reading The Hobbit, or There and Back Again by J. R. R. Tolkien.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on March 23, 2013, 08:10:36 PM
I am finally reading the last installment in Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Stories, Death of Kings.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 23, 2013, 08:37:11 PM
I just started reading Shadow of Freedom, the new Honorverse book, on my Kindle Paperwhite.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 23, 2013, 08:56:41 PM
Funny thing was I read Bernard Falls' book before I went over to have a look meself.
Should have stayed home.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 23, 2013, 09:25:18 PM
I just started The Odin Mission, a novel about a British Sgt. fighting in Norway in 1940.  Enjoying it so far.  It's the first in a series of four novels so far.  I ended up buying them of the Chapters Kobo site in Canada as they were $4.34 each there vs. $9.34 off of Amazon.  Converting to Kindle .mobi format was painless.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg1.fantasticfiction.co.uk%2Fimages%2Fn49%2Fn248659.jpg&hash=b82eadde91fc1675a541877e27a1f7a8a8231351)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 24, 2013, 01:02:51 AM
I'm about 200 pages in to Wars of the Roses by Trevor Royle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 24, 2013, 05:52:03 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 23, 2013, 09:25:18 PM
I just started The Odin Mission, a novel about a British Sgt. fighting in Norway in 1940.  Enjoying it so far.  It's the first in a series of four novels so far.  I ended up buying them of the Chapters Kobo site in Canada as they were $4.34 each there vs. $9.34 off of Amazon.  Converting to Kindle .mobi format was painless.


Hmm. Looks like the novel is only available as a used hard or soft cover import here in the USofA and the Kindle version not available at all. Drat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 24, 2013, 05:55:55 AM
Quote from: Longdan on March 23, 2013, 08:56:41 PM
Funny thing was I read Bernard Falls' book before I went over to have a look meself.
Should have stayed home.

You've been to Dien Bien Phu?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on March 24, 2013, 06:00:35 AM
Just finishing the blood angels 2nd omnibus and then moving onto the ultramarines one
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 24, 2013, 12:38:57 PM
Quote from: bob48 on March 24, 2013, 05:55:55 AM
Quote from: Longdan on March 23, 2013, 08:56:41 PM
Funny thing was I read Bernard Falls' book before I went over to have a look meself.
Should have stayed home.

You've been to Dien Bien Phu?

Oh no.  But I spent some time working along the Thai-Laotian-Cambodian border region in the mid '70's.  Things were rather disorganised
there at that time and it was too exciting for a simple prairie boy like me.  Pretty country. Don't like the food.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 24, 2013, 01:21:48 PM
Still, it must have given you a good insight as to the conditions faced by the French forces.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 24, 2013, 01:29:43 PM
Especially seeing the enormous amount of US activity going on in what was supposed to be a quiet area.  It was a very busy place.
It is hard to imagine the French with their meager resources in the 1950's trying to achieve a positive outcome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 24, 2013, 02:37:04 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on March 24, 2013, 06:00:35 AM
Just finishing the blood angels 2nd omnibus and then moving onto the ultramarines one

You really should go back and read the 1st Blood Angels one. It's really, REALLY good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 24, 2013, 05:04:51 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on March 23, 2013, 08:10:36 PM
I am finally reading the last installment in Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Stories, Death of Kings.
When you say "last", do you mean as in the most recent installment?  Or the final one? 




Quote from: Staggerwing on March 23, 2013, 08:37:11 PM
I just started reading Shadow of Freedom, the new Honorverse book, on my Kindle Paperwhite.
Wait, it's out already??  Crap! 


EDIT:  <runs out the door>

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on March 24, 2013, 06:01:04 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on March 24, 2013, 02:37:04 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on March 24, 2013, 06:00:35 AM
Just finishing the blood angels 2nd omnibus and then moving onto the ultramarines one

You really should go back and read the 1st Blood Angels one. It's really, REALLY good.

as soon as im home ill order it - theres been plenty of reference to it in the 2nd book - i know i definitely want to read it

Thought it was great when Rafen tried to warn the 10k year old space marine about Horus - very nice bit of history crossing as the Angels left to their doom

its a testament to the authors and the lore that reading about the primarchs gets me all excited
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 25, 2013, 08:08:01 AM
About 75% done with The Dragon Reborn in my grand re-read of the Wheel of Time series. Glad I waited several years to re-read the series after the final book was finally released. Although amusingly, it's taking me about a month per book! (Much slower than my standard read-speed long ago.)

The early books are holding up even better than I was hoping they would. RJ's strategy of having Book 3 focus on the Supergirls and Mat (with a side dash of Perrin) and keeping the eponymous "Dragon Reborn" almost entirely offscreen, was a good idea in hindsight, although (also in hindsight) foreshadowing of major plot creeping to come. I was a bit surprised how much of taint-craziness RJ was already writing Rand into back in Book 2, though -- despite having read that book probably seven times now over the years, I never really noticed that before. But it makes sense considering how taint-crazy he is in this book.

(True, RJ dials it down a lot afterward, but if I recall correctly by Book 4 the LTT personality has started to manifest and it acts as Rand's taint-sink, allowing him to function much more sanely for a while. And I guess it makes sense for Rand to go this crazy by Book 3, considering the stress he's under and how much of the taint he's been guzzling in order to channel proportionate amounts of the Power, not even counting the times in Book 2 he tried to use the Power and got nothing but a mindful of taint instead. This used to bother me a lot but now, eh, I know there are much worse problems looming several books downline, before I get to Knife of Dreams where things start tying up and finally moving forward again at a reasonable pace. I'm not looking forward to the slog from ACoS through CoT, the latter of which I've never even read...)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on March 25, 2013, 08:33:55 AM
I've always intended to read the Wheel of Time series, but I'm not ready for a long term book relationship right now.  It's too soon after the Game of Thrones series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 10:14:49 AM
I started Wheel of Time awhile back and moved quickly through a few of them until my wheel of word count began to bog down
in what seemed to be endless convolutions and just plain endless endlessness.  For me it was one of those things you start racing
through and put down never to feel the urge to pick up again.  It is like the books seem to gain weight as you read them and in a doritos
and twinkies kind of way.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 25, 2013, 10:26:46 AM
I had the same problem with the Wheel of Time books. A decent, and more readable series, are the 'Shannara' books by Terry Brooks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 25, 2013, 10:28:10 AM
There are neither beginnings nor endings to the Wheel of Time. But especially endings.  ;D

(Well, I guess there is an ending now, so that joke is forever after spoiled. Come to think of it, Tor has been using a version of that joke as a marketing tagline!  :o )

Anyway, yes, it gets very twinkie-bloated in the middle. I've heard from reliable sources that it trims down to fighting form in the last four books, but I sure don't blame anyone for wanting to avoid having to wade through the corpulence at all. Fortunately I enjoyed the story a lot through Book 6, and even for a couple books after that on prior re-reads (which surprised me, as I was hugely disappointed in Books 7 and 8 when I first read them).

So I'm only really worried about Book 9 (which I finished and then quit the series until I heard better of it) and 10 (which I didn't hear better about and so quit until I heard it was not only finished but ended respectably.)

But I know some fans who quit after Book 5 (The Fires of Heaven, which to me is still the series' high water mark) or even Book 4 (The Shadow Rising) for plot-creep bloat. Or even after only Book 3 when what was promised to be a trilogy lost all sense of planning any plot progression in advance!  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 12:05:42 PM
Very well said JP.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 25, 2013, 01:44:53 PM
Dan you still reading Embers of War? I'm thinking of picking it up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 02:20:34 PM
Yes I am.  I have just started.  It is very well written but big.  I read fast but I also read 4 or 5 books at a time.
BTW I am taking my daughter down to Vulcan this summer.  You would find it interesting for a minute or two but
it is rather cheezy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on March 25, 2013, 02:34:44 PM
Quote from: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 02:20:34 PM
Yes I am.  I have just started.  It is very well written but big.  I read fast but I also read 4 or 5 books at a time.
BTW I am taking my daughter down to Vulcan this summer.  You would find it interesting for a minute or two but
it is rather cheezy.

cheezy doesn't begin to descibe it... and the journey through Bumblephuk Alberta
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 03:09:57 PM
Would you rather go to Vulcan or Vauxhall?  I can set you up with a hot date in Hobbema if you want.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on March 25, 2013, 03:13:09 PM
Quote from: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 03:09:57 PM
Would you rather go to Vulcan or Vauxhall?  I can set you up with a hot date in Hobbema if you want.

I am certain you could, but I must take a pass on this generous offer...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 03:15:14 PM
Just call it cultural anthropology with a gunfight thrown in.  Party!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 25, 2013, 04:54:04 PM
Do I want to know what Vulcan or Vauxhall are?

Post impressions of Embers of War if you don't mind. I am interested in Asian colonial history pre-1945, especially Vietnam.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 05:00:17 PM
Mostly it is from the 1940's and ends in the mid 60's.  We watched the rest on TV.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 25, 2013, 07:35:12 PM
Oh. Doesn't start after WWI?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 25, 2013, 07:47:05 PM
Starts in 1919 but the really important stuff happens after the Japanese are gone since that was a major interruption of everything previous.
WW2 ends around p99. Then there is 600+ pp of the rest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 26, 2013, 07:30:40 AM
That's a long book. I may have to look elsewhere.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 26, 2013, 10:30:04 AM
Be not afraid long can equal full of knowledgey goodness stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 26, 2013, 12:33:00 PM
I've read a few that long and if the writing is good it's ok.It's when the writing ia not so good that I get squeamish.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 26, 2013, 11:53:30 PM
Quote from: Longdan on March 24, 2013, 12:38:57 PM
Oh no.  But I spent some time working along the Thai-Laotian-Cambodian border region in the mid '70's.  Things were rather disorganised
there at that time and it was too exciting for a simple prairie boy like me.  Pretty country. Don't like the food.

did you love them long time?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 31, 2013, 01:21:54 PM
I have begun reading Richard Connoughton's Rising Sun and Tumbling Bear, for the 2nd time. I couldn't finish it the first time 10 years ago because I felt it dragged too much but this time around it reads better. Read 50 pages since yesterday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 31, 2013, 01:37:45 PM
I'm reading Naval Operations of the Campaign in Norway April-June 1940.  I'd earlier read a novel about the Norway campaign told from the perspective of a British Sgt and I realized that I really didn't know much about the campaign at all apart from the broadest strokes.  The naval campaign is fascinating and quite brutal.  I didn't realize that so many ships were lost by both sides during the campaign. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 31, 2013, 01:41:15 PM
What kind of assets did Norway have?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 31, 2013, 01:47:44 PM
Lots of old coastal forts and the world's 4th largest merchant fleet.  The Brits really wanted the Norwegan merchant fleet.  The Germans wanted a port from which they could ship out iron ore from Sweden and a way to ensure the Baltic was shielded from the Royal Navy.  The French wanted a front away from France so it wouldn't be a repeat of WWI. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 31, 2013, 01:52:27 PM
It was mostly the British and Germans bashing it out among the Fjords. The Norwegians had only a few obsolete coastal defense ships and some patrol boats. The most potent naval weapons they fielded were really the shore batteries that sank one of the German heavy cruisers, the Blucher. The Norwegians actually had land-based torpedo launchers as well that they used to finish off the Blucher.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Norwegian_Navy#History
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 31, 2013, 02:17:10 PM
Interesting...land based torpedo launchers! Seems a little ridiculously overkill for the Germans to use a heavy cruiser in the fjords...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 31, 2013, 02:34:05 PM
The Blucher was part of the covering force for the German invasion of Norway.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on March 31, 2013, 02:53:08 PM
http://www.nuav.net/Batberg.html

A norwegian account of the attack.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 31, 2013, 04:18:52 PM
The Free Poles and the French were also involved.  The story of the Polish submarine Orzel is an interesting one.  Shame she got sunk.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ORP_Orze%C5%82_%281938%29 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ORP_Orze%C5%82_%281938%29)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on March 31, 2013, 09:44:25 PM
No mention of the screen door.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 03, 2013, 08:08:47 PM
Reading: Bloodlands  Timothy Snyder.  The story, not so well known in the West, of Eastern Europe between Hitler and Stalin before and during WW2.
And we thought the 1930's in Saskatchewan were rough!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on April 03, 2013, 08:33:21 PM
Currently reading Cain at Gettysburg by Ralph Peters and playing some Scourge of War Gettysburg along with it.  Makes for an immersive experience.  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 03, 2013, 10:19:03 PM
I enjoyed Cain at Gettysburg.  I appreciated someone telling the story from Meade's perspective for once.  He's one of the more underestimated generals of the Civil War IMO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 03, 2013, 10:38:52 PM
Linky: http://www.nybooks.com/articles/archives/2010/nov/11/worst-madness/?pagination=false
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 04, 2013, 05:47:18 AM
A sad note for Iain Banks fans:

http://social.entertainment.msn.com/blogs/blog--writer-iain-banks-makes-a-very-sad-and-classy-announcement-that-hes-dying
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on April 04, 2013, 09:30:54 AM
Roadside Picnic - Soviet era science fiction novel, later adapted into the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. movie and video game series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 04, 2013, 03:07:12 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 04, 2013, 05:47:18 AM
A sad note for Iain Banks fans:

http://social.entertainment.msn.com/blogs/blog--writer-iain-banks-makes-a-very-sad-and-classy-announcement-that-hes-dying

That's very sad, I'm a big fan of his Culture books, and in fact I'm reading 'Look to Windward' at the moment. A great loss, and under such terrible circumstances.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 04, 2013, 03:18:46 PM
We are all gonna die.  Even me.  :P  I admire his courage and exit plan.  I won't have time for that when the bus runs me over in the ditch during my "nap".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 04, 2013, 07:10:46 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 04, 2013, 05:47:18 AM
A sad note for Iain Banks fans:

http://social.entertainment.msn.com/blogs/blog--writer-iain-banks-makes-a-very-sad-and-classy-announcement-that-hes-dying

I think it's terrible when someone is informed they have a terminal illness. I really feel for the man. At least he is making the most of it by getting married and doing what he wants to do while he can.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 08, 2013, 02:25:11 PM
1939 in the Shadow of War by Robert Kee.  It's basically a rundown of the news and events.  Not sure how exciting it'll be but it was very interesting as I read it at the library.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 08, 2013, 03:17:28 PM
Similar.......try In War's Dark Shadow by W. Bruce Lincoln about pre WW1 Russia.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 08, 2013, 04:23:09 PM
I did see a couple of similar books about the lead up to WW1.  Don't remember if I saw that particular title, but I'll keep an eye out for it.  Although I'd suspect it has more to do with the lead up to the White/Red Russian civil war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on April 08, 2013, 04:48:29 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 05:12:06 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on February 28, 2013, 08:02:28 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 01:17:21 AM
Finished Day by Day Armageddon : Shattered Hourglass. It was worth reading, even though the last few chapters could charitably be described as a hurried mess. Good grief.

Next book on my to-read list.

Curious to hear what you think of it. I liked it well enough, even with a major change to the way it's told, but...yeah. The ending's a bit weird.

I enjoyed the first half more than the last half. I didn't mind the change from 1st person too much since it let the reader get in the mind of some of the other characters. Plot twist away from strict zombie tale was ok but I agree about the last few chapters being really rushed and not up to snuff. After reading the last page my reaction was WTF?! Not sure if this was the end of the series or not but I likely won't be buying the next if there is one. Too bad as the first 2 books were great. :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 08, 2013, 05:15:55 PM
I just finished Siege of Heaven, the third book of a trilogy by Tom Harper (http://www.tom-harper.co.uk/index.htm). Now I've started reading The Darkness that Comes Before by R. Scott Bakker (http://www.rscottbakker.com/), the first book of--you guessed it!--a series of three fantasy novels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 08, 2013, 05:30:30 PM
Quote from: Bison on April 08, 2013, 04:23:09 PM
I did see a couple of similar books about the lead up to WW1.  Don't remember if I saw that particular title, but I'll keep an eye out for it.  Although I'd suspect it has more to do with the lead up to the White/Red Russian civil war.
I covers the entire period from before 1914 to after the Civil War.  With some commentary about the even worst catastrophe that followed.
IMHOP nobody knows suffering like the people of Eastern Europe, particularly anybody who lived in Ukraine, Belarus, Poland 1914-1954 or so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 08, 2013, 07:42:19 PM
Greybriar you've piqued my interest in The Darkness That Comes Before...please post some more as you go along.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 08, 2013, 09:50:37 PM
Bakker is a fracking genius.  You should really read his stuff.  I was unable to finish the trilogy I was reading, as I moved, and have not subsequently gone back to it.  the first two were outstanding.  Sorry I don't have the titles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on April 09, 2013, 12:39:14 AM
Quote from: Shelldrake on April 08, 2013, 04:48:29 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 05:12:06 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on February 28, 2013, 08:02:28 AM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on February 28, 2013, 01:17:21 AM
Finished Day by Day Armageddon : Shattered Hourglass. It was worth reading, even though the last few chapters could charitably be described as a hurried mess. Good grief.

Next book on my to-read list.

Curious to hear what you think of it. I liked it well enough, even with a major change to the way it's told, but...yeah. The ending's a bit weird.

I enjoyed the first half more than the last half. I didn't mind the change from 1st person too much since it let the reader get in the mind of some of the other characters. Plot twist away from strict zombie tale was ok but I agree about the last few chapters being really rushed and not up to snuff. After reading the last page my reaction was WTF?! Not sure if this was the end of the series or not but I likely won't be buying the next if there is one. Too bad as the first 2 books were great. :(

I honestly don't understand the last page...the computer was alive? Or something? And what exactly happened that the Chinese 'alien' ended up being what it was? I guess that's the end of the series, though. Pretty sure I've read somewhere that the author's moving on to a new one.

As for my readings, I finished Wars of the Roses. Interesting bit of History, and the relation to the Song of Ice & Fire series is rather apparent. And now...not sure. I've got a Peter Hamilton book called Pandora's Star sitting here that was recommended to me over a year ago. Maybe I'll finally try getting in to that.  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 09, 2013, 07:05:55 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 08, 2013, 07:42:19 PM
Greybriar you've piqued my interest in The Darkness That Comes Before...please post some more as you go along.

I've barely scratched the surface of this book, Gus. But I can see already that it won't be a snap to read due to the manner in which it was written. The main character's name is apparently Anasûrimbor instead of something simple like Jack. The style of writing requires the reader to pay close attention. If I stick to it until the end, it will take a long while to get there. You would be better off reading the Amazon Customer Reviews (http://www.amazon.com/Darkness-Comes-Before-Prince-Nothing/product-reviews/1590201183/ref=pr_all_summary_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1) than waiting for me to comment.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 09, 2013, 07:42:05 AM
I saw that name when I checked it out on Amazon last night...odd one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on April 09, 2013, 11:04:38 AM
The HBO series Game of Thrones, is going too slow for me now, so I am reading the book(s)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 09, 2013, 03:28:54 PM
Thanks to a conversation I was having with a friend a few days ago -- and pursuant to my having recently finished Shadow of Freedom -- I've been rereading the first two Honor Harrington novels (On Basilisk Station and The Honor of the Queen). 

I've already finished the former, and am now halfway through the latter.  Out of an overall fantastic series, these two remain my favorites by far.  I forget sometimes just how much I enjoy them. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 10, 2013, 08:57:43 PM
I'm 50 pages in to The Scourge by Roberto Calas. It takes place during the Black Death in England with the alternate turn that the plague, besides killing everyone, also turns them into zombies. I did not know this when I pre-ordered but I have to admit the book is very well written. It was assembled from a series the author did online and Calas writes pretty vividly. A lot of you would love it, I think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 09:02:05 PM
On a recommendation I just started The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 10, 2013, 09:27:01 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 09:02:05 PM
On a recommendation I just started The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks.

Let me recommend that you stop.  You can't get back the time you will waste on the endeavor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 10:17:06 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 10, 2013, 09:27:01 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 09:02:05 PM
On a recommendation I just started The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks.

Let me recommend that you stop.  You can't get back the time you will waste on the endeavor.

Can you give me any more info/reasoning than that. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 10, 2013, 10:47:24 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 09:02:05 PM
On a recommendation I just started The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks.

That is time you could spend much more enjoyably lancing goat boils, scrubbing toilets and sitting in a drunk tank or mucking out barns.
The Telephone Book of Shannara etc was, for me, a dreadful experience of derivative bumpf at best and a nauseating twinky-dreck festival the rest of the time.
I will never ever get that part of my life and my literary  innocence back.  It is an abomination unto the goddess.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 10, 2013, 11:24:27 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 10:17:06 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 10, 2013, 09:27:01 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 09:02:05 PM
On a recommendation I just started The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks.

Let me recommend that you stop.  You can't get back the time you will waste on the endeavor.

Can you give me any more info/reasoning than that. :)

It's almost a direct Tolkien ripoff.  And not a well written one at that.   Let me put it this way, I read the books in my early teens.  Even then I knew that stuff was dreck.  His best book, that I read, was Magic Kingdom For Sale: Sold.  The second book in the Shannara trilogy, Elfstones of Shannara wasn't terrible, but you would have to read the first and third one to make any sense of it and that's to be avoided at all costs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 10, 2013, 11:36:27 PM
You are right.  Oh so right.  The first part is a direct rip off of The Fellowship of The Ring but sillier and stupider and ultimately lame as a two legged dog.
There are Darkly Foreboding Signs of Bad Things and Scary Monsters! OOOOOOOHHHHHH!  And plucky little protagonists.  Since Terry Brooks was a lawyer
you'd think he could have put something truly horrible in there like a +17 Family Law Specialist but he produces a grocery clerk with pointy ears glued on
and an "elf" sign on its back.  I think I am going to be sick.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on April 11, 2013, 07:40:33 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 10, 2013, 11:24:27 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 10:17:06 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 10, 2013, 09:27:01 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on April 10, 2013, 09:02:05 PM
On a recommendation I just started The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks.

Let me recommend that you stop.  You can't get back the time you will waste on the endeavor.

Can you give me any more info/reasoning than that. :)

It's almost a direct Tolkien ripoff.  And not a well written one at that.   Let me put it this way, I read the books in my early teens.  Even then I knew that stuff was dreck.  His best book, that I read, was Magic Kingdom For Sale: Sold.  The second book in the Shannara trilogy, Elfstones of Shannara wasn't terrible, but you would have to read the first and third one to make any sense of it and that's to be avoided at all costs.

Ok that is fair enough.  Would you have recommendation to take its place instead within the fantasy genre. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 07:59:04 AM
Oh good grief.  The Sword of Shannara isn't that bad.  In fact I rather liked the Shannara series.

The Belgariad and Malloreon series by David Eddings are also good quick reads. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on April 11, 2013, 09:33:11 AM
Quote from: Bison on April 11, 2013, 07:59:04 AM
Oh good grief.  The Sword of Shannara isn't that bad.  In fact I rather liked the Shannara series.

The Belgariad and Malloreon series by David Eddings are also good quick reads.

The Riftwar Saga by Raymond Feist is also good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 11, 2013, 09:43:36 AM
Feist's Riftwar series definitely.

Having not read any of Shannara, nor any of Eddings' books, I have routinely heard from people I trust that Eddings is much better at aping LotR. Even though the Mallorean series is itself kind of a remake of the Belgariad. (But I know someone who when moving to California kept the Mallo rather than pack the Belg, because if she was going to reread one or the other the Mallo was a superior version of basically the same story.)


Or, if we're talking about 70s/80s fantasy, may I suggest the Coramonde duology by Brian Daley? Hard to find perhaps, but it doesn't take forever to read, is packed with niftiness and details, and starts with the concept of a Vietnam APC squad being summoned to deal with a dragon and then largely ditches that about halfway through the first book because the rest of the story is strong enough to stand on its own merits.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 09:47:23 AM
Quote from: Shelldrake on April 11, 2013, 09:33:11 AM
The Riftwar Saga by Raymond Feist is also good.

This one has been on my list for sometime.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on April 11, 2013, 09:58:25 AM
If you haven't read Joe Abercrombie's The First Law series, you're missing one of the best trilogies out there. The Blade Itself, Before They Are Hanged and Last Argument of Kings are amazing and will hook you. Abercrombie has followed up with more in the same universe that are very good as well, but this trilogy should be read by anyone who enjoys fantasy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 11, 2013, 10:06:45 AM
Quote from: Bison on April 11, 2013, 07:59:04 AM
Oh good grief.  The Sword of Shannara isn't that bad.  In fact I rather liked the Shannara series.

The Belgariad and Malloreon series by David Eddings are also good quick reads.

Bison!  You love wordcount it seems.  You should have loved some of my posts instead of reacting like you did.  Sword is written like you asked your eleven year old brother for a 300 page book report on Fellowship of the Ring.
Eddings stuff is okay and at least original enough.  There are many, many books better than the Shannarra Telephone Book. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on April 11, 2013, 10:21:50 AM
I clicked on this thread to see what I'd missed. Last time I was in here we were on page 22. Now it's up to 50.

I'm not sure I'm going to be able to go back and read every post, though I'm sure there will be some excellent recommendations...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 11, 2013, 10:25:29 AM
I told you a bookworm forum was a good idea!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 11, 2013, 10:42:19 AM
Just finished Storm of War by Andrew Roberts.  It's a one volume history of WWII written by a Brit.  It was very interesting to read what events the British choose to emphasize and deemphasize in tha war.  Overall a really good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 10:48:52 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 11, 2013, 10:25:29 AM
I told you a bookworm forum was a good idea!

I believe if you go back in the history of grogheads; it was I Bison who proposed a separate book forum distinct from the movie, television, and music forum.  However, my friend, I will concede my glory so you may have a victory.  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on April 11, 2013, 11:04:42 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 11, 2013, 10:25:29 AM
I told you a bookworm forum was a good idea!

Yes, you did. It was a great idea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 11:06:05 AM
Quote from: LongBlade on April 11, 2013, 11:04:42 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 11, 2013, 10:25:29 AM
I told you a bookworm forum was a good idea!

Yes, you did. It was a great idea.

You clearly missed my post!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 11, 2013, 11:09:08 AM
Praise the Bison!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: son_of_montfort on April 11, 2013, 11:12:18 AM
Some of my favorites:

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson - probably my favorite sci-fi fantasy book, great beach reading, and I am really looking forward to the next one!

Wool and Dust by Hugh Howey - I just finished these, devoured them! Excellent books about a post-apocalyptic society.

My friend tells me I need to read Iain Bank's Culture novels, so I am starting on those. Unfortunately, Mr. Banks was recently diagnosed with terminal and late-stage cancer, with only months to live, so he said there would be no more books forthcoming.  :'( Terrible news and I feel bad for him and his family.

I also have several books on the Crusades that I have to read this summer to prepare for a Crusades and Hundred Years War class next spring. The big book is going to be God's War: A New History of the Crusades by Christopher Tyerman. It is a GIANT book and it seems VERY detailed and informative!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: LongBlade on April 11, 2013, 11:28:53 AM
Quote from: Bison on April 11, 2013, 11:06:05 AM
You clearly missed my post!

I miss a lot of stuff. Sorry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 11:37:06 AM
It's ok.  I make up glory for myself in my head.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 05:03:39 PM
Tent, Feist's Riftwar Saga is excellent.  Magician Apprentice, Magician Master, Darkness at Sethanon and Silverthorn are the four titles that make up the series.  It was written by him after roleplaying it with his D&D group.  And I would go with the Belgariad over the Malloreon by Eddings, but it is essentially the same story told twice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 05:37:01 PM
The Malloreon also has all of the follow on books for the individual characters.  That being said I think I have a nostalgic view of the Belgariad   I read the series back in the day as they were released.  I can remember waiting and waiting for the next book to be released.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 05:42:17 PM
Piers Anthony also has some good fantasy series.  The Xanth series is at like 30 some odd books. 

However On a Pale Horse book 1 of the Incarnations of Immortality is pretty classic IMO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 05:52:52 PM
I like the Xanth books, but the original five books of the Incarnations of Immortality are REALLY good.  They added a sixth on Satan and a seventh on God and they just weren't as good as the first five.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 05:54:10 PM
Oh, and I dug the Belgariad, too.  However, I found it after the books had all been published ;) I just went back and re-read it last year and enjoyed it again. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 11, 2013, 05:54:26 PM
Quote from: Bison on April 11, 2013, 05:37:01 PM
The Malloreon also has all of the follow on books for the individual characters.  That being said I think I have a nostalgic view of the Belgariad   I read the series back in the day as they were released.  I can remember waiting and waiting for the next book to be released.

I liked the Belgariad well enough.  It was at least a multiderivative world.  The obscure prophesies by a mad prophet trope got old quick.
I remember feeling disjointed in time a bit.  Like a bunch of stuff happened thousands of years ago even though it could have been yesterday
and nothing happened at all for all the endless boring centuries until now when everybody just picked up their weapons and went at it again.
It certainly lacked "wow" moments.
Guy Gavriel Kay's books have a very real and very rich sense of time and place and culture which he has lifted straight out of historical analogues.
Except for his first books, his are my current fave.  Tigana actually made me cry.  Even Bison can't make me cry
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on April 11, 2013, 06:41:37 PM
Thanks guys.  Lots of recommendations to sift through.  My reading list continues to grow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 07:43:01 PM
The Incarnations of Immorality is about a guy who takes over for Death.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 07:46:45 PM
On A Pale Horse is about a guy who takes over for Death.  the other four are War, Fate, Time and Mother earth.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 07:52:06 PM
Details man.  I'm just trying to get him hooked.  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 07:57:35 PM
Up until On A Pale Horse, I had never had anything jar me like him shooting Death. Totally blew my mind :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on April 11, 2013, 08:02:44 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 07:57:35 PM
Up until On A Pale Horse, I had never had anything jar me like him shooting Death. Totally blew my mind :)

I might need to get this for my kindle and re-read it.  It's only been about ----- years.  OMG!  I'm getting old!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 14, 2013, 04:22:19 PM
Quote from: bob48 on March 25, 2013, 10:26:46 AM
I had the same problem with the Wheel of Time books. A decent, and more readable series, are the 'Shannara' books by Terry Brooks.

They are ok. I cut my teeth (pre-teen) with the Belgariad. Good series. Xanth was also good. Both were written by guys in Florida IIRC. The Thomas Covenant stuff was good if a bit weird.

If you want Jordan writing well you need to try his take on Conan which is hard to do past the teen years. His Conan the Barbarian was the basis of the movie. His \conan the destroyer was the basis of the sequel IIRC.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 14, 2013, 04:27:45 PM
Quote from: Bison on April 11, 2013, 05:42:17 PM
Piers Anthony also has some good fantasy series.  The Xanth series is at like 30 some odd books. 

However On a Pale Horse book 1 of the Incarnations of Immortality is pretty classic IMO.

All the I of I were good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 14, 2013, 04:31:17 PM
This is at the top of my most wanted list.
http://www.amazon.ca/The-End-Power-Boardrooms-Battlefields/dp/0465031560 (http://www.amazon.ca/The-End-Power-Boardrooms-Battlefields/dp/0465031560)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 16, 2013, 09:05:41 AM
As soon as I finish The Short Victorious War (Honor Harrington series), I'll resume my reading of Bernard Cornwell's 1356.  He's brought back Thomas of Hookton, and the Hundred Years War continues... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 16, 2013, 10:00:24 AM
I am just about done with The Scourge by Roberto Calas amd many of you guys would love it...it's a dark story of zombie plague in late medieval England, but it has me laughing my ass off in spots. Great book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on April 17, 2013, 06:19:29 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 16, 2013, 10:00:24 AM
I am just about done with The Scourge by Roberto Calas amd many of you guys would love it...it's a dark story of zombie plague in late medieval England, but it has me laughing my ass off in spots. Great book.

Thanks. I will check it out.

Serf brains.....mmmmm.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 17, 2013, 07:33:20 AM
The publisher of The Scourge is the same publisher of what I am going to read next, Book One of The Mongoliad. Their name is 47 North IIRC and they appear to specialize in producing books from online projects and blogs. The Scourge is of surprisingly high quality with almost no typos, etc. Hoping for the same in The Mongoliad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 17, 2013, 01:14:45 PM
Just arrived today off amazon. 'The Wind Through the Keyhole', book 8 (book 4.1/2?) in King's 'Dark Tower' series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on April 17, 2013, 01:23:28 PM
Quote from: bob48 on April 17, 2013, 01:14:45 PM
Just arrived today off amazon. 'The Wind Through the Keyhole', book 8 (book 4.1/2?) in King's 'Dark Tower' series.

Listened to that on my drive to FLA last Dec. Not so much a continuation as an aside. Good fun.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 17, 2013, 01:27:42 PM
Fill's in some background stuff as I understand it, but it'll be nice to get into the charactors again.

Oy!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on April 17, 2013, 02:08:30 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 07:46:45 PM
On A Pale Horse is about a guy who takes over for Death.  the other four are War, Fate, Time and Mother earth.

sold!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 17, 2013, 07:02:35 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on April 17, 2013, 02:08:30 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 11, 2013, 07:46:45 PM
On A Pale Horse is about a guy who takes over for Death.  The other four are War, Fate, Time and Mother earth.

sold!

Awesome, geek!  You'll like them.  But don't be tempted to read the sixth an seventh books.  Satan is six and God is seven.  Six is ok, but seven is just awful.  They were added after the successful run of the first five.  In other words, you're not missing anything and you might just spoil your enjoyment of the rest :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 20, 2013, 11:26:04 AM
Just started Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman. It takes place in Normandy during the plague and the Hundred Years War and has a large dose of demons and angels, very well written so far. Buehlman also wrote Those Across the River, a southern gothic werewolf story, that I read last year and loved.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 23, 2013, 01:58:51 AM
Just finished The Man Who Saved the Union: Ulysses S. Grant in War and Peace.  Grant is one of my favorite historical persons.  I've read two biographies of him in the past year and it seems he has been much maligned by historians until relatively recently.  One of the best men to have served as general or president in our country's history, IMHO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on April 23, 2013, 04:25:22 AM
Currently reading through this, to give me a better sense of how all my conflict interests fit into the overall scene of British History..

http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/british-history-for-dummies-cheat-sheet.html
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 23, 2013, 07:38:21 AM
AR you'll have to elaborate on Grant, the main characteristic that is generally focused on is his drinking habit and I have seen him appear on many Top 10 Worst US Presidents lists, usually right behind Millard Fillmore or Franklin Pierce. Now you've gone and turned the tables!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 24, 2013, 12:03:35 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 23, 2013, 07:38:21 AM
AR you'll have to elaborate on Grant, the main characteristic that is generally focused on is his drinking habit and I have seen him appear on many Top 10 Worst US Presidents lists, usually right behind Millard Fillmore or Franklin Pierce. Now you've gone and turned the tables!

Well, keep in mind this is just from my reading two biographies (biographies can tend to be partisans for their subjects) and his memoirs, but here goes.  I think I remember you have a master's in history, am I right?

His reputation as a drunk was earned in California under rather unfair circumstances and magnified later by rivals and people who he fired when he was general-in-chief.  Not to say that he didn't have a problem, but he dealt with it effectively so that it didn't interfere with his duties.

He never demonstrated the 'Peter principle' of being promoted to his level of incompetence.  He was effective at every level from lieutenant to lieutenant general.  As a commander he understood his tools.  His campaigns in the west, particularly Fts. Henry and Donelson, Vicksburg, and Chatenooga, were examples of brilliant maneuver.  In the east he understood that the Army of the Potomac was a large blunt instrument and he used it as such, though even here he demonstrated a great deal of daring in his crossing of the James river.  He also won not just the respect but the admiration of such strong personalities as Sherman, Meade, and Sheridan.

As far as a president, I don't know how he ranks, but it seems from what I've read that he was a genuinely good man, maybe one of the best to have held the office.  After the war he used his prestige to ensure that the Johnson administration would not prosecute Confederates including most notably Robert E. Lee.  He was probably the only president who made an effort to honor treaties with the indians and also the only president in the 1800's who actually cared about the civil rights of the freedmen enough to use federal power to ensure them.

Anyway, I'm rambling at this point.  I'm a northerner so my bias is probably showing.  Suffice it to say I'm a great admirer of Grant after reading these books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 24, 2013, 02:11:36 PM
Hey I'm a Yankee too. I should qualify my questions above by saying that I have read of Grant being both a great commander and terrible at everything else he ever tried. Also read that he was a decent human being which could have translated into him being a bad politician too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on April 24, 2013, 04:58:46 PM
Even though I'm just a limey, I'd like to stand up and declare myself a Yankee too! Maine(ly) down to my unhealthy fascination and obsession with Joshua L. Chamberlain. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 24, 2013, 06:33:32 PM
^You're a Brit too?? Gah they're everywhere :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 24, 2013, 06:46:47 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on April 23, 2013, 01:58:51 AM
Just finished The Man Who Saved the Union: Ulysses S. Grant in War and Peace.  Grant is one of my favorite historical persons.  I've read two biographies of him in the past year and it seems he has been much maligned by historians until relatively recently.  One of the best men to have served as general or president in our country's history, IMHO.

Thanks for the heads up on this, AR. Grant is one of my favorites too. Much maligned, unjustly so. It's nice to see him given more his due in newer historical works.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 25, 2013, 01:51:40 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 24, 2013, 06:33:32 PM
^You're a Brit too?? Gah they're everywhere :)

Oy!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 25, 2013, 08:23:45 AM
Argh.  Having just finished rereading the Honorverse novel Field of Dishonor (which is always painful for me, given what Harrington suffers through), am now beginning Flag in Exile.  Must stop rereading HH books after this one! 




Quote from: Gusington on April 24, 2013, 02:11:36 PM
Also read that he was a decent human being which could have translated into him being a bad politician too.
This has long been my understanding of Grant as well -- that he was indeed a good man, but a terrible President (a little like Carter in that respect). 


He oversaw one of the most corrupt Administrations (if not *the* most corrupt) our country has ever seen.  He himself was honest enough, but he was apparently unwilling or unable to prevent his underlings from robbing the public blind (possibly because he wasn't really aware of what they're doing). 

I've always wondered if he didn't suffer from a certain degree of willful blindness where that issue was concerned.  To be fair, though, he also seemed to want to believe the best about people -- and disbelieve the worst -- so that could be a factor as well. 


However, I agree his drinking problem was indeed exaggerated.  And he maybe wasn't a brilliant military commander per se, but he was (for the most part) extremely competent.  While I think Lee was the better tactician, Grant was the better strategist IMO -- and he was willing to use his advantage in men & material ruthlessly. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 25, 2013, 09:19:51 AM
The reputation of Grant's presidency has certainly suffered over the years, though the corruption there too seems to have been exaggerated, at least according to what I've read.  It's interesting to note that had he stood for a third term as many wanted him to he would have won in a landslide, that he was almost drafted to run for president again four years later despite not wanting the nomination, and that at his death he was considered the greatest American since Washington.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 25, 2013, 03:24:42 PM
I found Grant's autobiography to be a very interesting book. It does seem that he was less than successful in all his  endeavours, other than the Civil War.

On a different note; I have just ordered three more Stackpole books from amazon to add to my growing collection of their publications;

Battle of the Bulge: Losheim Gap / Holding the Line.
The Black Bull: From Normandy to the Baltic with the 11th Armoured Division.
The Battle of France: Six Weeks That Changed the World.

The 3 cost me £1.27 for the books and £8.40 postage - from the USA!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 25, 2013, 07:11:31 PM
^HA now you sound like me...I get books for .01 and pay 3.99 shipping from the UK :/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 26, 2013, 01:00:41 PM
OK. So how do we work this to our advantage?

I buy the books that you like from the UK, and you buy the books I like from the US, then we......erm, post 'em to each other.....

Um, I think my plan has a flaw in it somewhere   ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 26, 2013, 01:29:29 PM
Quote from: bob48 on April 26, 2013, 01:00:41 PM
OK. So how do we work this to our advantage?

I buy the books that you like from the UK, and you buy the books I like from the US, then we......erm, post 'em to each other.....

Um, I think my plan has a flaw in it somewhere   ???
p o s t.....It might be cheaper these days to read them to each other over the fone.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 26, 2013, 01:38:26 PM
You could well be right.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 26, 2013, 09:04:34 PM
I can put the phone next to me while I read to my daughters before bed. I'll call collect.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 06:17:58 AM
...(crackle, hiss...)

Oh dear, seems to be something wrong with my phone..........hullo?

Hmm. Wonder who that was trying to get through?

Probably some jerk trying to sell me something.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 27, 2013, 07:25:05 AM
Bob, make sure the string is tight and the soup can is free of any rust.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 07:46:39 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on April 27, 2013, 07:25:05 AM
Bob, make sure the string is tight and the soup can is free of any rust.

Should I take the soup outta the can first?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 27, 2013, 10:54:02 AM
Quote from: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 07:46:39 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on April 27, 2013, 07:25:05 AM
Bob, make sure the string is tight and the soup can is free of any rust.

Should I take the soup outta the can first?
Rust gives an interesting reverb quality.  However, leave soup in can, put can in sock and Madame Robert don't need a frying pan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 11:41:11 AM
Ah, and she shouts the name of a Marx Brother film before she swings it?

'DUCK! - SOUP'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 27, 2013, 12:59:05 PM
Skull crushin' fun!!  Yeehaw!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 27, 2013, 01:05:58 PM
I actually got hit by a rock in a sock when I was about 12 and almost lost my left eye. True story!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on April 27, 2013, 01:10:15 PM
But you obviously found it again and that is good.
Happy ending.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 27, 2013, 01:21:29 PM
^A neighbor girl jumped me from behind while I was walking to pick up up little sister from school. She said she thought I was someone else. She was my neighbor and twice my size. Her mother made her apologize to me while I settled the swelling with a steak. God I can steal feel it...it really hurt. Don't mess with socks in rocks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 27, 2013, 01:33:44 PM
No sir, no sir, Mr Gus-I-am. We shall not mess with socks in rocks or rocks in socks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 02:29:07 PM
Rocks in socks don't rock.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 27, 2013, 03:14:50 PM
Quote from: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 02:29:07 PM
Rocks in socks don't rock.

But fox on rocks do


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 03:15:51 PM
Yep - that rocks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 27, 2013, 03:24:10 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on April 27, 2013, 03:14:50 PM
Quote from: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 02:29:07 PM
Rocks in socks don't rock.

But fox on rocks do


And so do socks on fox, or fox in socks:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-b2YRenZCFms%2FUFVLXfEugVI%2FAAAAAAAAAdo%2FUcOblr8BhiI%2Fs1600%2FF4040_minka_kelly_socks.jpg&hash=d4294f59b58758fdcba0e8ae50c24a016621495a)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 03:29:08 PM
Fox rocks in socks, and I'd like to get Fox on my rocks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 27, 2013, 03:38:33 PM
But then Mrs Bob's frypan would Gloiiiing your clock...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 03:45:26 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on April 27, 2013, 03:38:33 PM
But then Mrs Bob's frypan would Gloiiiing your clock...

...and I'd finish up with my rocks in my socks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 27, 2013, 03:57:43 PM
Full circle! Good night everyone.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: eyebiter on April 28, 2013, 09:31:50 AM
Decision in the Ukraine: German Panzer operations on the Eastern Front, Summer 1943
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on April 29, 2013, 10:49:32 AM
Quote from: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 03:29:08 PM
Fox rocks in socks, and I'd like to get Fox on my rocks.

she can hop on pop....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on April 30, 2013, 06:28:31 AM
I just finished Issue in Doubt by David Sherman.

Overall a good military science fiction tale...except for the ending. I know that this is meant to be an ongoing series but the low page count and lack of any sort of resolution at the end smacks of a cheap ploy to compell readers to buy the author's next book. Other authors such as Jack Campbell and Ian Douglas (aka William Keith) have managed to create satisfying endings for individual books of an ongoing series so why can't David Sherman?!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 30, 2013, 09:50:36 PM
Quote from: bob48 on April 27, 2013, 03:29:08 PM
Fox rocks in socks, and I'd like to get Fox on my rocks.

I would spank that fox with my rocks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 30, 2013, 10:15:20 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fus.cdn001.fansshare.com%2Fphotos%2Fminkakelly%2Ffull-minka-kelly-1378491791.jpg&hash=28e1277f064ad2db98166ee6e9b3ff1d84b759d6)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on May 05, 2013, 09:08:00 PM
I was visiting my brother and we made a trip to B&N to look at Nooks or Kindles or whatever gadget they sell. I stumbled across a compilation of seven of H.G. Wells' novels.

Getting ready to start on "The Time Traveler". I can't help thinking about The Big Bang Theory episode where they buy the time machine prop.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 05, 2013, 10:41:11 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 08, 2013, 07:42:19 PM
Greybriar you've piqued my interest in The Darkness That Comes Before...please post some more as you go along.

I finally finished reading The Darkness That Comes Before. It was a little hard to follow due to the names being so unfamiliar and at a glance many of them looked alike to me. The book contained a few scenes that were really freaky. Life is cheap in the story and many have died, including some characters I had thought would be around for awhile. Characters range from the lowest classes in society to near deities. All in all I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading The Warrior Prophet: The Prince of Nothing.

While I'm waiting for its sequel, I am reading The War that Made America by Fred Anderson. It is definitely a change of pace.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 06, 2013, 12:22:48 AM
Sherlock Holmes The Valley of Fear

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 06, 2013, 06:01:18 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on May 05, 2013, 10:41:11 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 08, 2013, 07:42:19 PM
Greybriar you've piqued my interest in The Darkness That Comes Before...please post some more as you go along.

I finally finished reading The Darkness That Comes Before. It was a little hard to follow due to the names being so unfamiliar and at a glance many of them looked alike to me. The book contained a few scenes that were really freaky. Life is cheap in the story and many have died, including some characters I had thought would be around for awhile. Characters range from the lowest classes in society to near deities. All in all I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading The Warrior Prophet: The Prince of Nothing.

While I'm waiting for its sequel, I am reading The War that Made America by Fred Anderson. It is definitely a change of pace.

They are pretty hard-hitting stories. I've recently finish reading 'White Luck Warrior', which is good. Not sure when the next one comes out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 06, 2013, 07:55:39 AM
Greybriar I loved Fred Andersen's previous book on the French and Indian War...one of the best books I have ever read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 06, 2013, 10:30:50 AM
It looks like I've found a couple of winners then, Bob and Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 06, 2013, 11:04:16 AM
Certainly the R.Scott.Bakker books are epic in scale and should keep you busy for a while - enjoy 'em Greybriar!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 06, 2013, 01:42:37 PM
Fred Anderson's Crucible of War that I mention above was also one.of the longest books I have ever finished at close to 1000 pages IIRC.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 06, 2013, 02:59:27 PM
^^ Speaking of long books, I'm up to the end of Book 4 of WoT now (again), The Shadow Rising, in my year-long reread. TSR may be the highest wordcount of the series; if not it's close. The first three books I finished in a month each, but this one is taking me an extra week or two, throwing me off schedule.

Fortunately, TSR is regarded by many fans as the high watermark of the series for good reasons, although (also fortunately) I do think The Fires of Heaven tops it overall, and I'll be getting to that next of course.

(And then the downward slog begins for a long, lonnnnnng time. ;) )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 06, 2013, 05:52:16 PM
^  Good man.  Nice to know I'm not the only masochist around here.  :P 


I'm trying very hard to hold off on rereading WoT myself until A Memory of Light is available in paperback.  Gah! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 06, 2013, 07:08:30 PM
JP & Martok, except for being able to say that you finished it, why on God's green Earth would you bother?!?!?  Thick books and high word counts don't bother me, but, gratuitous padding and a story that runs like tar is just, well, masochistic! What that series REALLY needs is an editor.  Somebody to go in and tidy the 52 books in to a more readable six or seven.  THEN you would have a series!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 06, 2013, 07:16:44 PM
What part of "masochist" is unclear to you?  :P 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 06, 2013, 07:24:52 PM
Quote from: Martok on May 06, 2013, 07:16:44 PM
What part of "masochist" is unclear to you?  :P

I saw that, but my unending and undying hatred for the extraneous crap he stuffed his books with makes me wonder why nominally sane people would subject themselves to that torture, masochist or not!  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 07, 2013, 05:07:27 AM
All right, Valley of Fear is done; only a few more stories left to go through.  I've had a blast rereading The Complete Sherlock Holmes so far; remind me not to wait over ten years before reading them again! 



I've decided I'm going to reread the Star Trek Rihannsu/Bloodwing novels by Diane Duane.  Of all Trek book series I've experienced thus far, this one has to be my favorite -- and one of the relatively few Trek novels I feel warrants a yearly reread. 

That's pretty impressive when you consider that I'm generally a much bigger fan of The Next Generation TV show than The Original Series (which the series is set in), and that I'm usually more interested in the Cardassians & Klingons than the Romulans.  On the other hand, Duane is one of my two favorite Star Trek authors (the other being Keith R. A. DeCandido), so it's really not surprising I enjoy these books so much. 

Also, prior to Nemesis and Enterprise, the Romulans get featured so rarely, whether in books, movies, or TV, it's kind of a treat to see them receive an in-depth exploration for once.  Duane really delves into their history, psychology, cultural mores, etc., dating all the way back their roots on Vulcan prior to Surak and the Reformation and their subsequent exodus to (the worlds that would be eventually be known as) Romulus & Remus.  It's unfortunately non-canon (as anyone who's seen the aforementioned Nemesis and/or Enterprise can attest), but it's still a great read. 





Quote from: MetalDog on May 06, 2013, 07:24:52 PM
Quote from: Martok on May 06, 2013, 07:16:44 PM
What part of "masochist" is unclear to you?  :P

I saw that, but my unending and undying hatred for the extraneous crap he stuffed his books with makes me wonder why nominally sane people would subject themselves to that torture, masochist or not!  :)
I'm flattered you consider me even nominally sane.  You're most kind, sir.  ;) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 07, 2013, 08:00:44 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 06, 2013, 07:08:30 PM
JP & Martok, except for being able to say that you finished it, why on God's green Earth would you bother?!?!?  Thick books and high word counts don't bother me, but, gratuitous padding and a story that runs like tar is just, well, masochistic! What that series REALLY needs is an editor.  Somebody to go in and tidy the 52 books in to a more readable six or seven.  THEN you would have a series!

I'll most likely skim over the most offending books in the late-middle portion and pick back up with KoD.

While I was disappointed in both ACoS and TPoD originally, on rereads I found to my surprise I enjoyed them much more than I originally had. Going in with adjusted expectations helped a lot I guess. (LoC was a slight disappointment after TFoH but I always enjoyed that book from my first read of it; in fact I got on the series when Lord of Chaos had just been released; I can remember seeing it splattered in stores all over the local malls, and having no idea what it was and no inclination from the cover to find out. ;) But a friend at work lent me the first book.)

I can't imagine I'll enjoy Winter's Heart, but I couldn't imagine I'd enjoy the prior two either. I never did read Crossroads of Twilight, and again I can't imagine enjoying it, but I've heard from several reliable sources (including one of my best friends, whom I met as fans of the series back in the late 90s) the story picks up dramatically for the final four books, so I may just read Leigh Butler's semi-official WoT notes instead. (http://www.tor.com/features/series/wot-reread) (TOR, who has never been afraid of making money, is actually selling her re-read notes in volumes on Amazon!  ::) Leigh ran the Usenet WOTFAQ for several years, and I enjoy her composition style a lot; I'm following along on her chapter commentaries as I go, though not her summaries since I already read the chapters recently. She's almost finished with Memories of the Light now.)


I sure wouldn't expect anyone who bowed out around or before LoC to try a reread, of course. But I still like and even love more of the books than I don't, so it isn't masochism for me. :) I won't start to feel sloggy at all until somewhere in ACoS.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 07, 2013, 08:05:17 AM
Quote from: Martok on May 06, 2013, 05:52:16 PM
^  Good man.  Nice to know I'm not the only masochist around here.  :P 


I'm trying very hard to hold off on rereading WoT myself until A Memory of Light is available in paperback.  Gah!

By the time you catch up, some time next year, it'll be out, surely. ;)


Incidentally, I rebought my WOT books on Kindle (and then onward past the books I already had), and I'm looking for a good home for my physical copies. Books 1-5 are in paperback, Books 6-9 are in hardback with the original dustjackets. (All have the generally laughable original Darryl Sweet artwork unfortunately.  :P ) I don't have Book 10, Crossroads of Twilight, as I gave up on the series after Book 9, Winter's Heart, until I saw reliable evidence RJ (or his heir Sanderson as it happened) was finishing out strong.

Since they can be bought for dirt-cheap used, I might as well give them away for free, but I sure wouldn't mind if someone reimbursed me on the shipping. I'd send them by UPS in one box. (Our family company is also the local UPS pick-up station.)

Different people think the slog starts at different places; some people gave up after only Book 3!--but most people started giving up around Book 6 or later. So I can't promise where anyone's tolerance will give up; however, as noted above Leigh Butler's summary commentaries are accurate and detailed and (in the commentaries) humorous and sympathetic to people struggling with the series, so you can always use her as a crutch once the books themselves start giving you fits.


(I've heard that burning the books feels very therapeutic, too.  ;D )

If I have room in the box, I'll throw in an autographed hardback copy of my own fantasy novel Cry of Justice, which I can promise avoids the problems with WOT. I might as well try a bit of promotion while I'm at it.  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 08, 2013, 10:53:23 PM
I'm interested, Jason, but I'm afraid shipping to Hawaii might be prohibitive!

I'm 3/4 of the way through the Sailing to Sarantium series; Guy Gavriel Kay has not disappointed yet.  What an outstanding author!

And, concurrently I'm reading a physical copy of The Bruce Trilogy by Nigel Trantor about Robert the Bruce's rise to power in Scotland.  It has me pretty fired up to start CK2 back up again!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 09, 2013, 12:43:22 PM
Indeed; I should have added "continental US only". ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 09, 2013, 09:00:16 PM
Dude, don't discriminate just because I'm in one of the freak states.  >:(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 09, 2013, 09:19:19 PM
Quote from: Toonces on May 09, 2013, 09:00:16 PM
Dude, don't discriminate just because I'm in one of the freak states.  >:(

With a lower case 's' in 'states' that puts you in some broad company, especially this close to the week end.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 10, 2013, 07:32:32 AM
New Jersey comes to mind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 10, 2013, 07:32:42 AM
Quote from: Toonces on May 09, 2013, 09:00:16 PM
Dude, don't discriminate just because I'm in one of the freak states.  >:(

You can always pay shipping yourself. ;)


Updating, I finished TSR (finally) and have started in on The Fires of Heaven. Lots more minor character politicking out of the gate, although that includes Forsaken Socials where we're seeing them plot in-character instead of standing off to one side. At this point I don't mind minor character politicking so much, and after all these years I still find it a refreshing expansion of the story. Later, not so much.  ::) (This is no doubt the main reason why some people decided to give up with TFoH, though -- the strong increase in secondary and tertiary plotting foreshadows a lot of plot slogging.)

In passing, the (ultimately kind of important) side-plot with forcibly retired ultra-general Gareth Byrne being a kindly minor lord and, in a minor depression over his demotion, deciding to follow three odd poor women he had to stand judge for with his old war cronies who are bored out of their minds being back home again, could have been the start of a whole novel (or series) in itself. I'd actually like to read that story. Too bad there ultimately isn't much of it in WoT.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 11, 2013, 12:18:51 AM
LOL.

I meant, the shipping might prohibitive for ME to pay!  I wasn't looking for you to pay for shipping!  Geez, I'll be a box like that would come to a solid $100 or more. 

And I don't want to hear any more smack talk about Jersey you hosers.   >:(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 11, 2013, 06:40:16 AM
Oh, Toonces. Thats an absolutely brilliant article on yon front page about flight sims. Very informative stuff. Many thanks for that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 11, 2013, 12:01:22 PM
Jersey smells! You're in Hawaii, you're supposed to be chilled and relaxed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 11, 2013, 08:51:13 PM
Thanks for that, Bob.  I was kind of wondering if anybody read it.

@Gus, you know I'm from South Jersey, right?  Yes, I spent my summers at the Jersey shore.  LOL.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 12, 2013, 04:34:47 PM
Of course I do. And I'm from New York. So by now you should be used to a little NY/NJ ribbing. Especially from 12 gazillion miles away in paradise! Oahu aint LBI and you aint Snooki!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 13, 2013, 08:51:54 AM
Quote from: bob48 on May 11, 2013, 06:40:16 AM
Oh, Toonces. Thats an absolutely brilliant article on yon front page about flight sims. Very informative stuff. Many thanks for that.

Meant to add a ditto there previously; saw I forgot to. :) Now rectified.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Fjet.gif&hash=627ff4ff2489503a865a5da9b08697f4cbfa1c8c)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on May 13, 2013, 07:14:10 PM
Starting to read Mankind: The Story of all of Us.  I didn't see the History Channel show, so this is all new to me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 14, 2013, 12:45:04 AM
Following on the heels of Sarantium, and in continuing prep for Rome Total War 2, I'm reading Quo Vadis: A Narrative from the Time of Nero by Henryk Sienkiewicz.  You may recall that I read his Fire and Sword trilogy a few months ago.

So far it's ok.  It's not quite as fluffy as the Fire and Sword books were, which were getting downright pillowy towards the end of the final book Pan Michael. 

It's free, so you can't beat the price!

http://www.amazon.com/Quo-Vadis-narrative-time-ebook/dp/B0083ZALTO/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1368510125&sr=1-1&keywords=quo+vadis

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 14, 2013, 12:57:03 AM
Quote from: Toonces on May 14, 2013, 12:45:04 AM
Following on the heels of Sarantium, and in continuing prep for Rome Total War 2, I'm reading Quo Vadis: A Narrative from the Time of Nero by Henryk Sienkiewicz.  You may recall that I read his Fire and Sword trilogy a few months ago.

So far it's ok.  It's not quite as fluffy as the Fire and Sword books were, which were getting downright pillowy towards the end of the final book Pan Michael. 

It's free, so you can't beat the price!

http://www.amazon.com/Quo-Vadis-narrative-time-ebook/dp/B0083ZALTO/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1368510125&sr=1-1&keywords=quo+vadis

I read this when I was in high school.  Very moving story from what I remember.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2013, 07:09:40 AM
Is the movie based on that book?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 14, 2013, 07:46:29 AM
Can't say I've ever seen the movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 14, 2013, 08:31:14 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 14, 2013, 07:09:40 AM
Is the movie based on that book?

Yep!--Amazon confirms it.

The most helpful review conclusion for anyone worried that the novel is only Christian inspirational literature (it is that, but stylistically it's also what directly inspired the gritty, bloody, sexy cable ancient-era shows currently popular!)

QuoteSienkiewicz, a fervid Catholic, implanted Quo Vadis with a strong religious message. Devout Christians could certainly read this novel as a work of inspirational literature. Yet Sienkiewicz is not overly preachy or dogmatic. Though Saints Peter and Paul have supporting roles, most of the story is told through the eyes of the Romans. Non-believers can read this story simply as a historical novel about the clash between the Roman Empire and a burgeoning religious movement. It must be admitted that, while the Roman characters run the gamut from honorable to depraved, the Christians are all depicted as perfectly virtuous, without a coward or a Judas among them. On the other hand, perhaps the most sympathetic character in the book is not a Christian at all, but Petronius, an Epicurean. Theist or Atheist alike can enjoy Quo Vadis simply as a masterful work of historical literature. Its only literary fault is that the plotting drags a bit in its final third, a defect that's mostly wiped from memory by the book's monumental and unforgettable closing scenes. Regardless of your religious inclination, if you have any interest in ancient Rome or a taste for historical fiction, Quo Vadis is a must-read.


A different reviewer, though appreciating the book overall, tags the writing style though (the reviewer quoted above kind of does, too, but this is more amusing):

QuoteI could have read it back to front or bottom to top just as easily as reading in the normal way. I don't want to disparage anyone from reading the book, because it is important, but beware of the difficult to read writing style.


Incidentally, while the original version is a free Kindle download, there's a color illustration version (http://www.amazon.com/VADIS-eBook-illustrated-authors-ebook/dp/B0051VDNDE/ref=pd_sim_kstore_3) (presumably incorporating classic artwork) for $1.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 14, 2013, 08:54:16 AM
You've inspired me to download it on my kindle.  I may have to re-read it here soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2013, 12:27:23 PM
Sounds like great reading while playing the upcoming Rome 2 TW.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 14, 2013, 10:14:24 PM
The book was written in the 1800s, in Polish, and then translated into English so it's rough around the edges.  Once you get used to the style it's not so bad.

It's not easy to read, though.  I'm finding I need to sort of have some quiet, distraction-free space to read it otherwise it's impossible to follow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 15, 2013, 06:37:15 AM
I'm like that with everything I read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on May 15, 2013, 07:41:40 PM
With the movie on the horizon, I just finished Ender's Game. Great novel, definitely a classic Sci-Fi and I'm not sure how I missed reading it before. Good stuff, hope the movie does it justice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 15, 2013, 07:44:18 PM
Are you going to read the other two, too?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on May 15, 2013, 07:47:31 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 15, 2013, 07:44:18 PM
Are you going to read the other two, too?

Yeah, just ordered them from Amazon, although Ender's Game holds up fine by itself. It will be interesting to see where Card takes the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 15, 2013, 07:52:02 PM
Actually, there are more than three books in the series:





Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on May 15, 2013, 08:09:36 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on May 15, 2013, 07:52:02 PM
Actually, there are more than three books in the series:



  • Ender's Game

  • Speaker for the Dead

  • Xenocide

  • Children of the Mind

  • Ender in Exile

  • A War of Gifts

  • Ender's Shadow

Yeah, I'm gonna read the next two and see where it goes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 15, 2013, 10:36:46 PM
I hadn't realized he'd gone past Speaker For the Dead and Xenocide.  I liked Speaker, but not Xenocide.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 19, 2013, 04:29:35 PM
Reading The Berlin Baghdad Express by Sean McMeekin, about German efforts to get the decrepit pre-WWI Ottoman Empire to join them in an alliance and begin a jihad against the allies. Sort of like Lawrence of Arabia in reverse.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on May 19, 2013, 04:34:41 PM
I finished War of the Worlds last night.  The power was knocked out by a massive lightning storm, so I was very happy I chose to invest in the Kindle cover with the book light.

Tonight I start: Arms of Nemesis: A Novel of Ancient Rome http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0046H9UEA/ref=oh_d__o00_details_o00__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1#_

This is one of my favorite light reading book series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 19, 2013, 04:56:34 PM
War of the Worlds is one of my favorite novels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 19, 2013, 05:03:19 PM
Got 2 books on the go at present; 'Fighter' by Len Deighton, and 'The Black Bull: From Normandy to the Baltic with the 11th Armoured Division' by Patrick Delaforce.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 19, 2013, 05:09:10 PM
I've read 'Bomber' a long time ago but I have not read 'Fighter'. Let me know if I should put it on my 'to read' list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 19, 2013, 05:12:33 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on May 19, 2013, 05:09:10 PM
I've read 'Bomber' a long time ago but I have not read 'Fighter'. Let me know if I should put it on my 'to read' list.

I'm about half way through and found it to be extremely interesting so far. Lots of stuff I did not know about, including the 'birth' of the LW and some really good information on the decisions behind aircraft designs and such.

Definitely worth grabbing a copy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 20, 2013, 08:20:11 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 19, 2013, 04:29:35 PM
Reading The Berlin Baghdad Express by Sean McMeekin, about German efforts to get the decrepit pre-WWI Ottoman Empire to join them in an alliance and begin a jihad against the allies. Sort of like Lawrence of Arabia in reverse.

This reminds me that I very much wish Rocksteady (or Rockstar or whoever developed Red Dead Redemption) would set up a sequel taking place during World War One (which they've almost set up anyway during the epilogue/aftergame sandbox), focusing on the German plot to agitate Mexico into invading the US across the southern border -- a plot that when we discovered it (or so says The First World War documentary) contributed more than anything else to our decision to finally enter the war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 20, 2013, 12:40:43 PM
I would kill for a game like that!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on May 21, 2013, 10:38:13 AM
I am about a third into After America by John Birmingham. So far a pretty good read and IMO better than the first book in the series Without Warning. Geopolitics in a world where most of the US is suddenly gone are very interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 21, 2013, 09:35:39 PM
Angels of Vengeance is the third in the series and not bad either. It wraps up a lot of the plot threads but leaves an opening for more to come. One character in particular unexpectedly grows very formidable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 22, 2013, 02:12:48 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 20, 2013, 12:40:43 PM
I would kill for a game like that!

It doesn't seem like it would be all that hard to do, either: the game already has assets for an early WW1 time period on the frontier; add a few more relevant details here and there, write a story with appropriate missions, design and set up the in-game cutscenes. It might literally take longer to set up and record the voice dialogue.

And then they can release an "Undead Nightmare" sequel, too, based on the same premise. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 22, 2013, 02:51:06 PM
Sounds like you're ready...I'll wait here for delivery :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on May 22, 2013, 03:28:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 22, 2013, 02:51:06 PM
Sounds like you're ready...I'll wait here for delivery :)

under a different context, this would get you jail time


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.coffeehousemystery.com%2FUserFiles%2FImage%2FSmileyFace.png&hash=a05a6171bd421494e4f788b6eef15529bcaace06)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 22, 2013, 06:43:56 PM
^I missed you and your commie hippie green perviness.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on May 24, 2013, 03:51:51 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 22, 2013, 06:43:56 PM
^I missed you and your commie hippie green perviness.

That is truely one of the nicest things ever said to me in this SoM'Bitch Hippie Commune
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 25, 2013, 04:07:27 PM
^It's from the heart man, from the heart :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 04, 2013, 02:17:34 AM
Incidentally, I'm finally reading Watership Down for the first time in my life -- yes really! 


I suspect I'd have liked the book a bit more if I'd read it when I was younger, but I'm still enjoying it.  I'm halfway through so far, and I've found it an easy read. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on June 04, 2013, 02:28:52 AM
^Is that the last book in Patrick O'Brian's Captain Jack Aubrey series? I'm on book 17.


Yeah, yeah, yeah....I'm just kidding. I've never read Watership Down though. Might have to nab it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 04, 2013, 02:30:39 AM
If you can stand an epic "low fantasy" tale about rabbits, I recommend it. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on June 04, 2013, 03:36:24 AM
having disappeared into the world of Space Marines with the Ultramarine and Blood Angel omnibuses im after a bit more skullduggery and not quite imperially alligned - is there any good Eldar 40K fiction?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 04, 2013, 09:00:11 AM
Watership Down is a great book.  They did a cartoon adaptation of it back in the late 70's or early 80's, which is not really intended for young audiences but is a must see. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on June 04, 2013, 10:00:31 AM
I just finished reading 'A Thousand Sons: All is Dust' the other day.  I really feel bad at what happened to Magnus the Red.  He misunderstood the Great Ocean and his father maybe misunderstood him and his intentions. 

As a result I really don't like Leman Russ and the Space Wolves.  They're uneducated beasts. 

Next up on my list: Nemesis by James Swallow
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 09, 2013, 10:59:50 AM
1.) "The Watchers: A SECRET HISTORY OF THE REIGN OF ELIZABETH I", by Stephen Alford
2.) "Satori", by Don Winslow
3.) "The Liar's Gospel", by Naomi Alderman
4.) "The Unbearable Lightness of Being", by Milan Kundera
5.) "American Sniper", by Chris Pyle (RIP)
6.) "The GODS of GOTHAM", by Lyndsay Faye
7.) "Inside Seal Team 6", by Don Mann
8.) "Napoleon and His Times: Selected Interpretations", editors: Frank A. Kafner, James M. Laux
9.) "The Resolution for Men", by Stephen & Alex Kendrick
10.) "Fearless", by Eric Blehm (RIP)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 09, 2013, 02:17:20 PM
I'm still working my way through The Bruce Trilogy.  Not great but not bad.

About 40% through Quo Vadis on my kindle (strictly lunchtime reading).

I have Tigana queued up next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 09, 2013, 02:55:19 PM
Quote from: Toonces on June 09, 2013, 02:17:20 PM
I have Tigana queued up next.

Oh, are you in for a solid treat!!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on June 09, 2013, 03:31:35 PM
I go through two books a week, on average. Just finished "Infamous" by Ace Atkins, which was good enough to get me to start another one of his works, (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51EROXzV01L._BO2%2C204%2C203%2C200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click%2CTopRight%2C35%2C-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg&hash=38cd375e45a92459c1c8363485647c26159a48be)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 12, 2013, 07:56:18 AM
DEVGRU6 how is The Watchers?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on June 12, 2013, 08:03:09 AM
Currently on 'Leviathan Wakes (http://www.danielabraham.com/books-2/the-expanse/leviathan-wakes/)' b y J.S.Corey and am loving it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 12, 2013, 09:26:13 AM
I really enjoyed that one Spelk.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 12, 2013, 09:32:15 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 12, 2013, 07:56:18 AM
DEVGRU6 how is The Watchers?

Just really cracked it open but very interesting in so much as that I've read. Surprises me somewhat that the topic hasn't been more focused upon in the recent past (oh...say the last 5-10 yrs.) by other Elizabethan scholars. However, considering the amount of negative press Obama and his admin. are receiving of late (especially the NSA), it does seem a very timely book.

In short worth getting, especially so if you are enamored with that period in history as I am!

DEVGRU6

(BTW, you would also love "The Gods of Gotham"...somehow methinks you have a special fondness for this period and locale.)

http://www.amazon.com/The-Gods-Gotham-Lyndsay-Faye/dp/0425261255
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 12, 2013, 10:27:14 AM
That has actually been in my shopping cart for.some time. How did you know that?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 12, 2013, 12:08:38 PM
he works for the NSA.  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 12, 2013, 12:16:25 PM
I bet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 12, 2013, 12:20:25 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 12, 2013, 10:27:14 AM
That has actually been in my shopping cart for.some time. How did you know that?

"Cart", you say???

Boy howdy, you must be way out deep in da' woods!!!!

You weren't in "The Village", perchance??...(hates me some M. Nighty Nite Shyamalanfubar...:)...he should of called it a career after "The Sixth Sense" (he, obvi possesses less than 5 senses in order to continue, not to mention his bank-rolled backers)...what a hack....sorry, I digress...!

DEVGRU6
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 12, 2013, 12:25:50 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 12, 2013, 12:08:38 PM
he works for the NSA.  ::)

I prefer a beard and longer hair-besides, civi suits ain't my thang!!!

DEVGRU6
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on June 12, 2013, 02:16:01 PM
Quote from: Bison on June 12, 2013, 09:26:13 AM
I really enjoyed that one Spelk.

Yeah I love Space Opera/Military Sci Fi, and this title seems to totally fit that bill. Is a bit more pacier than Jack Campells The Lost Fleet (http://www.johnghemry.com/_series/lost_fleet/lost_fleet_intro.htm) but it's scratching a lot of my similar itches.

I've just grabbed the next two books in the Expanse series, Calibans War and Abbadon's Gate in readiness.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 12, 2013, 03:50:19 PM
Quote from: spelk on June 12, 2013, 02:16:01 PM
Quote from: Bison on June 12, 2013, 09:26:13 AM
I really enjoyed that one Spelk.

Yeah I love Space Opera/Military Sci Fi, and this title seems to totally fit that bill. Is a bit more pacier than Jack Campells The Lost Fleet (http://www.johnghemry.com/_series/lost_fleet/lost_fleet_intro.htm) but it's scratching a lot of my similar itches.

I've just grabbed the next two books in the Expanse series, Calibans War and Abbadon's Gate in readiness.

trying to get into this genre...I have The Forever War but never started it...heard of Campbell...maybe you can recommend another, spelk???...thanks...

DEVGRU6
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: spelk on June 13, 2013, 02:39:33 AM
Quote from: DEVGRU6 on June 12, 2013, 03:50:19 PM
trying to get into this genre...I have The Forever War but never started it...heard of Campbell...maybe you can recommend another, spelk???...thanks...

I'd probably say try Old Man's War by John Scalzi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Man's_War).

I can also recommend Marshall S. Thomas's Soldier of the Legion (http://soldierofthelegion.com/) - it's gritty very descriptive futuristic combat. Give the audiobook a sample blast (http://www.audible.co.uk/pd/ref=sr_1_1?asin=B004F3TKEK&qid=1371109301&sr=1-1) to hear some of the book dramatised!


Possibly try John Ringo's Into the Looking Glass (http://www.johnringo.net/TheLibrary/LookingGlass/IntotheLookingGlass.aspx).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 13, 2013, 11:12:48 AM
Quote from: spelk on June 13, 2013, 02:39:33 AM
Quote from: DEVGRU6 on June 12, 2013, 03:50:19 PM
trying to get into this genre...I have The Forever War but never started it...heard of Campbell...maybe you can recommend another, spelk???...thanks...

I'd probably say try Old Man's War by John Scalzi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Man's_War).

I can also recommend Marshall S. Thomas's Soldier of the Legion (http://soldierofthelegion.com/) - it's gritty very descriptive futuristic combat. Give the audiobook a sample blast (http://www.audible.co.uk/pd/ref=sr_1_1?asin=B004F3TKEK&qid=1371109301&sr=1-1) to hear some of the book dramatised!


Possibly try John Ringo's Into the Looking Glass (http://www.johnringo.net/TheLibrary/LookingGlass/IntotheLookingGlass.aspx).

Hey spelk, thanks a bunch!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 14, 2013, 02:59:54 AM
Am probably going to start on Callahan's Key by Spider Robinson later today. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 15, 2013, 10:20:33 PM
Just started Spring Heeled Jack by Mark Hodder, a steampunk adventure set in London in the 1860s. Excellent so far!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DEVGRU6 on June 16, 2013, 12:31:08 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 15, 2013, 10:20:33 PM
Just started Spring Heeled Jack by Mark Hodder, a steampunk adventure set in London in the 1860s. Excellent so far!

I have it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 06:20:06 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 15, 2013, 10:20:33 PM
Just started Spring Heeled Jack by Mark Hodder, a steampunk adventure set in London in the 1860s. Excellent so far!

I need to pick a copy of that up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on June 16, 2013, 08:22:40 AM
Monsters!!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 16, 2013, 08:42:14 AM
Based on Airborne Rifles' recommendation, recently started - The man who saved the Union : Ulysses Grant in war and peace
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on June 16, 2013, 08:51:04 AM
^^That is a very good read.  People have been unfair to Grant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 16, 2013, 09:04:16 AM
Quote from: Longdan on June 16, 2013, 08:51:04 AM
^^That is a very good read.  People have been unfair to Grant.

He's finally been getting his due more recently and I'm glad for it. He was an impressive man.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 16, 2013, 10:42:56 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 16, 2013, 08:42:14 AM
Based on Airborne Rifles' recommendation, recently started - The man who saved the Union : Ulysses Grant in war and peace

Hope you enjoy it.  If you become as intrigued by Grant as I did Grant by Jean Edward Smith is another biography I read.  It focus on a lot of different aspects and information than the first book and the author is much more of a partisan for Grant.  I really enjoyed both reads and learned a lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 16, 2013, 12:19:36 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 16, 2013, 10:42:56 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 16, 2013, 08:42:14 AM
Based on Airborne Rifles' recommendation, recently started - The man who saved the Union : Ulysses Grant in war and peace

Hope you enjoy it.  If you become as intrigued by Grant as I did Grant by Jean Edward Smith is another biography I read.  It focus on a lot of different aspects and information than the first book and the author is much more of a partisan for Grant.  I really enjoyed both reads and learned a lot.

I am enjoying it very much so far. I'll keep the other book in mind. I've become very interested in Grant since doing more Civil War gaming and reading ACW history.

Thanks for the recommendations!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 12:45:40 PM
^If you have not already done so, then I recommend getting your hands on the 3 books by Bruce Catton which make up the Grand Army of the Republic trilogy. Brilliant reads.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on June 16, 2013, 01:40:13 PM
I did not know you were allowed to be in here without reading Catton.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 16, 2013, 01:42:51 PM
Uh oh. I'm a late comer to the ACW and haven't read Catton. :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 02:25:13 PM
Mr Lincoln's Army, Glory Road, A Stillness at Appomattox are the three books in the set, although I think you can also get them now as one complete volume. A must-read for anyone interested in the ACW, as are the 4 books (not by him) that constitute the 'Battles and Leaders of the Civil War' tetrology. ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 16, 2013, 02:49:29 PM
Quote from: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 02:25:13 PM
Mr Lincoln's Army, Glory Road, A Stillness at Appomattox are the three books in the set, although I think you can also get them now as one complete volume. A must-read for anyone interested in the ACW, as are the 4 books (not by him) that constitute the 'Battles and Leaders of the Civil War' tetrology. ;)

I have not read these either.  Going to have to check them out.  Thank for the help lightening my wallet  ;).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 16, 2013, 03:01:51 PM
Agreed on Catton.  I have two of his series and they're very well done.

Interestingly, given the ACW theme floating around, I've restarted reading Gettysburg - Culp's Hill and Cemetery Hill by Pfanz.  Talk about a meaty treatment of Gettysburg!  I got it for about $5 at a used book store a couple of years ago and just picked it up to start reading on a whim the other day.

http://www.amazon.com/Gettysburg--Culps-Hill-Cemetery-Harry-Pfanz/dp/0807849960/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1371412811&sr=8-3&keywords=pfanz
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 03:31:02 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 16, 2013, 02:49:29 PM
Quote from: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 02:25:13 PM
Mr Lincoln's Army, Glory Road, A Stillness at Appomattox are the three books in the set, although I think you can also get them now as one complete volume. A must-read for anyone interested in the ACW, as are the 4 books (not by him) that constitute the 'Battles and Leaders of the Civil War' tetrology. ;)

I have not read these either.  Going to have to check them out.  Thank for the help lightening my wallet  ;).

Money well spent, I do assure you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 16, 2013, 04:34:05 PM
Bawb I did not know you were a steampunk fan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 04:39:06 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 16, 2013, 04:34:05 PM
Bawb I did not know you were a steampunk fan.
Oh hell yes. The best one (for me) is 'A Transatlantic Tunnel - Hoorah!' by Harry Harrison. I just adore the whole Steampunk gendre.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 16, 2013, 04:51:23 PM
Just when I think I couldn't love you anymore you do that.

Here's a link for those interested:

http://www.amazon.com/Transatlantic-Tunnel-Hurrah-Harry-Harrison/dp/B007SRY0VI/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1371419420&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=A+Transatlantic+Tunnel+-+Hoorah!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 16, 2013, 05:05:23 PM
And only $6!

Hug.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on June 16, 2013, 07:28:53 PM
James McPherson's Battle Cry Of Freedom for a great one volume overall treatment.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 16, 2013, 07:58:40 PM
Yeah 6.00 Bawb. Even Mrs. Bawb would holster her frying pan there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 16, 2013, 08:52:41 PM
Mrs Bawb holsters her pan for no one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 17, 2013, 10:35:03 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 16, 2013, 01:42:51 PM
Uh oh. I'm a late comer to the ACW and haven't read Catton. :(
Same here. 


Indeed, while I've long had a(n at least) moderate interest in the ACW, I've never truly read up on it much.  Given that, is Catton a good place to start?  Or is there some other work/author I should read first? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on June 17, 2013, 11:34:54 AM
I really felt that James McPherson's work was the best overall one volume history.  Bruce Catton's trilogy is mostly in Virginia
but is rather iconic americana if you will.  He is a stylist.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on June 17, 2013, 12:27:21 PM
^Are you referring to Catton's Centennial History of the Civil War Series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 17, 2013, 01:27:28 PM
Quote from: Longdan on June 16, 2013, 07:28:53 PM
James McPherson's Battle Cry Of Freedom for a great one volume overall treatment.

Agreed. Also a very good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Longdan on June 17, 2013, 03:37:47 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on June 17, 2013, 12:27:21 PM
^Are you referring to Catton's Centennial History of the Civil War Series?

I do not know about the others.  I refer specifically to the Army of the Potomac  trilogy which is my fave of his.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 17, 2013, 04:40:41 PM
Quote from: bob48 on June 17, 2013, 01:27:28 PM
Quote from: Longdan on June 16, 2013, 07:28:53 PM
James McPherson's Battle Cry Of Freedom for a great one volume overall treatment.

Agreed. Also a very good read.

+1 I have read Battle Cry Freedom
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 17, 2013, 07:10:33 PM
Walter McDougal's Throes of Democracy provides a lot of helpful socio-political context for the Civil War, before during and after. (Much like his previous work Freedom Just Around The Corner for the American Revolution. Neither work spends much time on the actual wars, but the Sitz Und Leben so to speak is excessively good.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 17, 2013, 08:26:01 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on June 17, 2013, 12:27:21 PM
^Are you referring to Catton's Centennial History of the Civil War Series?

This is what I was referring to.  I've only read book 1 of the Army of the Potomac trilogy.

The Centennial trilogy is easier to read than Foote's in my opinion.  It's shorter and while usually I like longer books the Catton trilogy moves just fast enough to be satisfying without being overwhelming.

I read McPherson twice and it's very good as well.  I felt McPherson focused a lot on the political stuff at the expense of the military side (which is more interesting to me) but I could be wrong.  I read McPherson quite a while ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 23, 2013, 10:43:23 AM
Well I did go ahead and pick up McPherson's Battle Cry of Freedom from the library a couple days ago.  Have gone through the preface & intro, and will start reading it in earnest this evening. 


I looked for Catton's stuff too, but to my disgust, the entire library system had only volumes 2 & 3 of the Centennial History of the Civil War (and nothing at all from his Army of the Potomac trilogy).  >:( 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 23, 2013, 12:06:15 PM
Just keep looking every now and again as they get reprinted quite frequently it seems, but certainly, 'Battle Cry' is a good read and covers more of the war. Obviously, the Catton books deal mainly with the Army of the Potomac.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 26, 2013, 09:29:46 PM
I started Tigana last night.

About 1/3 of the way through The Day of Battle.

And I just placed an Amazon order for First Man in Rome, Legions of Rome: The History of Every Imperial Roman Legion, and The Guns at Last Light.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 26, 2013, 09:54:15 PM
I just finished Get Laid or Die Trying: The Field Reports by Jeff Allen.  I started Enter Night: A Biography of Metallica by Mick Wall.  When I'm done with that, it'll be The Third Reich At War by Richard J. Evans.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 03, 2013, 12:10:24 AM
I feel like I'm teetering very close to Gus level OCD madness.  I've always liked anything to do with the strategic bombing operations of WWII, particularly those involving Bomber Command.

I've been on a bit of a tear lately and I'm currently reading Bomber Boys: The RAF Offensive of 1943.   I also just finished watching The Dam Busters for about the 5th time.  I'm also about 2/3rds of the way through the 2nd DVD of a 3 DVD set I ordered from Amazon entitled The Ultimate Dam Busters Collection narrated by Stephen Fry.  It's a little simplistic and too concerned with personalities and not enough on the technical aspects for my tastes but it's not bad.

I think I'll re-read Brickhill's excellent book The Dam Busters again once I'm through with Bomber Boys.

Damn, I'd kill for a flight sim similar to Battle of Britain II but focused on Bomber Command.  That'd be pretty much the best sim ever!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 03, 2013, 12:28:51 AM
Welcome. There is no cure.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 03, 2013, 09:32:12 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 03, 2013, 12:10:24 AM
Damn, I'd kill for a flight sim similar to Battle of Britain II but focused on Bomber Command.  That'd be pretty much the best sim ever!

Microprose's Mighty 8th made a noble attempt. A rather buggy and borderline unplayable attempt, but a noble attempt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 03, 2013, 10:52:41 AM
I'd prefer something that doesn't look like it's from the VGA era.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 04, 2013, 09:18:22 PM
Spring-Heeled Jack was a great read...awesome steampunk tech and a great sense of humor throughout...will definitely be buying the rest of the series.

Now I am about to start Three Empires on the Nile: The Victorian Jihad 1869-1899 by Dominic Green.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on July 04, 2013, 10:39:03 PM
I'm close to finishing the follow-up to The Doomsday Vault (http://grogheads.com/?p=957), but I gotta admit that The Impossible Cube has, so far, been a little flat.  The best comparison I can think of is that I feel about this follow-up the same way I felt about The Mummy II - same characters, same setting, same general theme, but lacking in spark and rushes around the map more than it seems like it needs to.

I did pick up a steampunk anthology at B&N on Wednesday, and I'm looking forward to poking around that one for a bit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 04, 2013, 10:52:14 PM
^Which one? I just got 'Queen Victoria's Book of Spells.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on July 04, 2013, 10:59:05 PM
this one:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/steampunk-ann-vandermeer/1101962917?ean=9781892391759


There's a collected "Bookman" series that I might get, too. 

The next big book purchase I'm probably making is to load up on the Hammer's Slammers collection.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 05, 2013, 01:06:55 PM
^I've almost bought that collection a few times but reviews are always mixed. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on July 11, 2013, 06:10:17 PM
Currently reading The Tank Killers by Harry Yeide. 

Just read a great quote Capt Frank Redding 705th Tank Destroyer Battalion on using 75mm equipped M3 Halftrack's as indirect fire artillery "Although little good was accomplished because of unsuitable sighting equipment, we added in a highly satisfactory fashion to the general din of battle."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 11, 2013, 07:31:27 PM
Halftracks make everything more gooder.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 11, 2013, 07:43:49 PM
I want Peapod.com to start delivering groceries in a half-track. That would be cool...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 11, 2013, 07:45:19 PM
Also, having another Grog as your avatar is almost Escher-like in it's surrealism.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 11, 2013, 11:37:48 PM
I'm now about halfway through MacPherson's Battle Cry of Freedom.  Bearing in mind that I tend to have a tough time with non-fiction, this has been a pretty easy read. 

And an engrossing one:  It's fascinating to learn more about some of the war's important aspects that don't usually get much coverage (such as economics and internal politics) in addition to some of the smaller details (such as President Zachary Taylor being Jefferson Davis' former father-in-law). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 13, 2013, 12:13:09 AM
I finally finished reading The Prince of Nothing trilogy by R. Scott Bakker. I don't believe I've read anything quite like it and although it wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I don't regret reading it.

For a change of pace, I am now reading The Heartbreak of Aaron Burr by H. W. Brands.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 13, 2013, 07:11:06 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 13, 2013, 12:13:09 AM
I finally finished reading The Prince of Nothing trilogy by R. Scott Bakker. I don't believe I've read anything quite like it and although it wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I don't regret reading it.

For a change of pace, I am now reading The Heartbreak of Aaron Burr by H. W. Brands.

The Bakker books are pretty epic. I've not long ago finished reading 'White Luck Warrior', the latest in the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 26, 2013, 08:07:07 AM
I finally finished MacPherson's Battle Cry of Freedom last night.  Mange takk ("many thanks") to everyone who recommended it!  It's not often I find a work of non-fiction to be both informative/educational yet still enjoyable, but MacPherson pulls it off well. 


Next up is The Princes of Ireland by John Rutherfurd.  If it clicks with me, I have the follow-up The Rebels of Ireland on hand as well. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2013, 10:17:45 AM
Just finished Three Empires on the Nile: The Victorian Jihad 1869-1899 by Dominic Green, very good book. Just started Road to Manzikert: Byzantine and Islamic Warfare 527-1071 by Brian Todd Carey.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on July 28, 2013, 10:31:46 AM
Quote from: Martok on July 26, 2013, 08:07:07 AM
I finally finished MacPherson's Battle Cry of Freedom last night.  Mange takk ("many thanks") to everyone who recommended it!  It's not often I find a work of non-fiction to be both informative/educational yet still enjoyable, but MacPherson pulls it off well. 


Next up is The Princes of Ireland by John Rutherfurd.  If it clicks with me, I have the follow-up The Rebels of Ireland on hand as well.

i think it was everyone here, but when they were 'over there' that pointed me at said book - awesome read and opened my eyes very much to the ACW
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 28, 2013, 12:48:39 PM
I agree.  It's definitely one to recommend for anyone who has even a modest interest in the ACW. 





Quote from: Gusington on July 28, 2013, 10:17:45 AM
Just started Road to Manzikert: Byzantine and Islamic Warfare 527-1071 by Brian Todd Carey.
I'll be eager to get your feedback on that one, Gus.  Manzikert is one of the medieval period's major events that I know little about (but wish to rectify). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2013, 02:12:13 PM
^It's Pen and Sword book so it's put together very well, with lots of historical detail. There are some editing errors in the first few pages I have read so far so Brant would lose his mind. Carey is an expert in Muslim history though and the team he put together to produce the maps and illustrations is well respected.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hiimori on July 28, 2013, 04:47:32 PM
Just returned from a battlefield tour to Bastogne and the Ardennes (La Roche, Houffalize, Easy Company foxholes in Jack's Wood...). To prolong this impressive experience (already back at work  :-\), I've started reading "Bastogne" by Michael Tolhurst, a book from the Battleground Europe series. Good read so far, very detailed with some useful travel tips about visiting the area today, lots of photos, cards, and background information. The book also suggests some tours, but for planning a full-fledged Ardennes-Battle of the Bulge tour, I would highly recommend "A tour of the Bulge Battlefields" by William C. C. Cavanagh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 28, 2013, 07:59:06 PM
Updating my Wheel of Time read-thru: I've switched to a 10%/day plan, partly in anticipation of the coming slog, and partly because I have other things I want to freaking read this year (including new entries in the ongoing brilliant Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality fanfic); so I've burned through three books this month, Lord of Chaos, A Crown of Swords, and just now finishing up The Path of Daggers.

Can't say I'm much looking forward to the next two books, since between them they killed my interest in the series (until I confirmably heard it really did end respectfully well). But blowing through them this quickly should, by tautology, get me through them quickly at least. ;)

Books 6, 7, and 8, disappointed me when I originally read them, yet on previous catchup rereads I found I liked them more than I was expecting based on my memories of them. That odd experience repeated itself this time, too.

I can see clearly enough why they disappointed me after (what I regard as) the high-water mark of Book 5: up until then, plenty of things happen in each book, and there's an impressive and important climactic action sequence with multiple levels of engagement and things going on at the end, with major clear accomplishments.

That changed with Book 6. Several important things do happen -- the Black Tower is formed from scratch and its soldiers get to have an initial mission (during the climactic action sequence); a lost artifact is learned about which will help solve a major problem; Rand sets up a plan to deal with the Forsaken general Sammael and rescue the nation of Illian with as little damage as possible; one of the last "Forses" (as we liked to call the Forsaken back on the Compuserve WOT forum) shows up to start causing trouble; two of the previously slain Forsaken get rebooted into new bodies so they can cause trouble, too; the Superfade Shadar Haran makes his first appearance; and the White Tower puts a very clever plan into action which results in Rand being put in the worst danger of the series so far (and for the next several books as well) leading to a bloody climactic action sequence. Did Min's side of the romantic plot advance, or was that in the next book...? (She does not much of anything in these three books.)

And yet the slog also begins (or shifts into a lower gear to the point that I begin to resent it): an inordinate amount of time is spent with the Supergirls and the rebel White Tower camp DOING PRACTICALLY NOTHING, partly because no one in charge has an idea what to do (which is reasonably believable but not fun to read about) and partly because RJ's solution (having the third Supergirl, Egwene, summoned to lead them as an ostensible puppet) is something that would move their side of the plot along too quickly compared to other parts. Demandred does nothing obvious, although he seems linked to the Black Tower somehow. (And then disappears from the plot so completely over the next two books that fans thought one or two new characters might be him in disguise.) The newly rebooted Forses proceed to go do nothing for a while. Shadar Haran does nothing but loom and act unusual for a Myrdraaal. Sammael gets another Forsaken, Graendal, on his side, but meanders around waiting for Rand to invade Illian. Rand cannot invade Illian because the White Tower interrupts him with their own plan; and while that plan is admirably clever and a great threat to Rand, the resulting action sequence lacks the fully epic layers of the previous five books. Worst of all, Matrim Cauthon (the fan-favorite male character of the series) gets shuffled around accomplishing nothing, partly because his purpose during one half of the book is to only be a strategic decoy, and partly because his purpose in the second half of the book is to go do something the plot won't allow and so he starts a whole other thread of plot late in the book which cannot possibly have time to go anywhere.


Similarly, several important things happen in Book 7 -- Sammael is decisively and permanently defeated; the Supergirls find their artifact (and a group of hidden women who are a treasure all to themselves); Rand takes important initial steps in reconciling with some rebels to his rule and gets involved in an action scene which inadvertently gives him the hint on how to clean the taint from the male side of the One Power; the Seanchan Forerunners invade much more successfully than the first time, quickly snapping up about half of "Randland" before anyone knows what's going on; and the Forse leader returns to start catching up on the plot since he's been gone. If Min's romantic plot didn't advance in Book 6, it does now (I think it was now), and the Lan/Nynaeve romantic plot finally comes together with their marriage.

And yet the slog also continues. Much of the first part of the book deals with the same action scene that finished out book 6, told from other perspectives, and that does help flesh out that scene better but it's also necessarily redundant. The dicey political situation set up by Rand's capture takes some time, and it's nicely tense, but the only real question is how Rand will navigate it without just snapping and killing people off left and right (which would be disastrous). The hunt for the artifact in Ebou Dar BORES THE LIVING HELL OUT OF EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THE STORY, and so doesn't do anything for the reader, either, despite Robert Jordan strumming the combined comic tensions of the various characters to the absolute limit while the plot cannot move forward. The artifact is found (and a nice little action sequence commences), but there's no time left in the book to do anything with it. The Seanchan invasion is supposed to be happening off away from where the characters know what's happening, so for the most part it happens off-screen until the very end, and then rocks fall on the best character in the series (Mat) while everyone else is running away. The climactic action sequence, to rescue Illian and destroy Sammael, becomes a tamer repeat of the previous Forsaken fights (with more long-distance counter-punching by Sam), and ends with a death so ambiguous that readers were sure for years that Sammael wasn't supposed to be dead after all (if I recall correctly RJ had to confirm it by Word Of God during a convention Q&A session eventually). Also Rand launches it at the last minute, literally on the spur of the moment. Why not earlier in the book? Because... then the book would be over. Or shorter. The return of the Forsaken leader is shrouded in mystery because he isn't operating openly yet and doesn't look (or much act) the way he used to, and so he doesn't really do much either yet. Egwene has gotten the Salidar White Tower moving toward a confrontation with the 'official' WT, but that's a plot for a later book so nothing gets accomplished there (yet several chapters are spent making sure nothing is happening there). Oh and Shadar Haran skulks around threatening other villains on occasion but not doing much for a supposed avatar of Satan. The rebooted Forsaken twins are inserted into their various groups to spy what's going on, but by the nature of their mission they don't really do anything (and it isn't overly clear yet who one of them even is for sure).


Do things happen in Book 8? Sure: the artifact is finally used, and fixes a major problem (and introduces a different major problem); the Seanchan more-or-less conquer the Whitecloaks (and free an important minor character whose plot hasn't been going anywhere for a while, and whom I cannot imagine contributing anything to the plot later); Moridin, the new Forsaken leader, takes more active steps to rein in his remaining minions and get them working together instead of competing with one another; and Rand counter-invades one of the Seanchan arms of expansion to keep them from threatening Illian later. Oh, and he survives an assassination attempt at the end of the book. Meanwhile Eg finds a clever way to politically maneuver herself into better power.

BUT IT TAKES FOREVER TO GET THOSE THINGS DONE! Except when the time comes to actually do them, then it only takes a few chapters. Rand's counter-invasion is a muddled fog-of-war mess over two chapters toward the end of the book; until then he doesn't do much; after then he has a fight with someone whom he doesn't even realize is a Forsaken (who isn't very competent) and then decides to go into hiding next book. (Whee.) The first 25% of the book (maybe 30%) is spent with a very large group of bickering women, adding to the numbers of bickering women, and finally using the artifact before running away again (although at least there's an impressive explosion to round things off). Eg is stuck literally slogging along in the snow after the weather changes, inching toward her political victory, and setting up a rest for the next book (if I recall correctly her side of the plot won't move forward until somewhere in Book freaking 11!) Moridin's actions are entirely behind the scenes again, the Forsaken fight at the end is an even tamer and quicker version of previous Forse fights (because the guy doing it isn't a fighter unlike previous Forses and doesn't have any other serious advantages either, so he sucks at his job and mainly just confuses things). RJ spits on reader expectations, not only by making the long-anticipated rematch between Rand and the Seanchan a confusing mess, but by (apparently) fulfilling a long-expected prophecy as unimportantly and boringly as possible! I continue to hope this is only misdirection on his part, and that the prophecy will be more importantly fulfilled later, although I've yet to hear that happens -- but even if it's misdirection it can only build bad will with faithful readers who have waited over ten years, maybe closer to fifteen, for that story element to happen, and then to have it (apparently) happen as a preliminary side-effect to another part of the plot that underperformed to long anticipations. (The fandom was positively LIVID back in the day. With many more years of perspective I'm only mildly annoyed. Then again, I did spend about an hour writing up all this. ;) Holy bleep, I'd better save my text...!)

Oh and the most interesting and beloved character in the series is out of action the whole book, never appearing once.

And one of the other most interesting characters, stuck in a terrible romantic storyline liked by no fan anywhere (that I can recall ever hearing), gets sent off (along with his terrible romantic storyline) on the beginning of a diplomatic mission-in-force (with his own small army) to do nothing in this book but arrive in the area and meet with a powerless queen in secret. I am reliably informed by people who continued reading after Book 9 that the terrible romantic storyline utterly handicaps this side of the plot, keeping it from moving forward with any accomplishment (and leading the character, Perrin, to do things which earn him hate from long-term fans) at least as far as Book 13.  :-\


So, yeah. The slog has begun, and will only get worse next month. Still, I'm past the halfway point (bookwise anyway, not sure about wordcount or pagecount) as of the end of Book 7, and by the 20th of August I should be past the slog altogether, with four books of climactic plot tie-ups to go. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 28, 2013, 09:46:17 PM
The Mongoliad is turning out to be a formidable read.

Lots of hard-core fighting with secret societies, thrilling chases, courtly intrigues, and a few suspiciously familiar characters (or their analogs, anyway). There are also a bunch of related shorts and novellas written by many authors and spanning perhaps a thousand years.... This is turning into quite the literary franchise!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 28, 2013, 11:09:34 PM
I am currently reading The Man Who Saved the Union: Ulysses Grant in War and Peace by H.W. Brands.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Grimnirsson on July 29, 2013, 03:39:23 AM
Starting with the first book of the Liberation Trilogy by Rick Atkinson, An Army At Dawn. So far I like the style and it's the perfect fit for the game on our table right now Axis Empires: Totaler Krieg
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 29, 2013, 08:21:53 AM
And so, having griped about the WoT slogfest (with no doubt another gripe coming next month as I finally once and for all finish the slog), allow me to bring you the amazing anti-slog and completely free Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality fanfic.

The Mobi version is attached below, works just fine on Kindles. Other formats can be found at http://hpmor.com/ (although the very nice PDF version with the official Potter font has not been updated for many chapters. Makes a good and very extensive introduction to the series, though.)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 29, 2013, 08:43:50 AM
(I tested the upload first to make sure the file would arrive as a zip. Now for more information.)

Why should a Groghead read HPMOR? Aside from the clever humor and the author's love for the franchise in all its crazy details? (Not me, I only know the series from the movies. ;) )


Because Professor Quirrell, the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor (and so much more ;) ), decides the best way to train the students is by breaking up each year into teams and having them fight one another in dangerous mock battles with plenty of strategic and tactical brilliance by the various generals. With Harry being a clear fan of Warhammer 40K.

It. Is. Awesome.

QuoteOmake Files #1: 72 Hours to Victory -- aka "what happens if you change Harry but leave all other characters
constant"

Dumbledore peered over his desk at young Harry, twinkling in a
kindly sort of way. The boy had come to him with a terribly
intense look on his childish face—Dumbledore hoped that whatever this
matter was, it wasn't too serious. Harry was far too young for his life
trials to be starting already. "What was it you wished to speak to me
about, Harry?"

Harry James Potter-Evans-Verres leaned forward in his chair, smiling
grimly. "Headmaster, I got a sharp pain in my scar during the Sorting
Feast. Considering how and where I got this scar, it didn't seem like
the sort of thing I should just ignore. I thought at first it was because
of Professor Snape, but I followed the Baconian experimental method
which is to find the conditions for both the presence and the absence of
the phenomenon, and I've determined that my scar hurts if and only if
I'm facing the back of Professor Quirrell's head, whatever's under his
turban. While it could be something more innocuous, I think we should
provisionally assume the worst, that it's You-Know-Who—wait, don't
look so horrified, this is actually a priceless opportunity—"

That was only an Omake (the author knows his anime, too), a brief humorous sidestory chapter showing how quickly the story would be over if Harry was competent but Voldy wasn't. HE WHO MUST NOT BE NAMED IS VERY VERRRRY COMPETENT NOW!! The story might still be finished in Harry's first year at school, but the first 83 chapters (in the PDF) run 1391 pages. 1400 pages of fast-moving plot.

A short description of the fanfic would in fact be, "What if most of the characters were far more competent than they were in the books/movies?" In Harry's case, that's because his aunt convinced his mother to give her a potion to permanently turn her thin so she could court and marry a scientist rather than the real story's Dudley. So Harry was raised in a loving, nurturing single-child home, where his talent was fostered long before he ever discovered magic is real.

It isn't entirely a Marty Stu story: Harry makes mistakes (sometimes drastic ones) and doesn't always follow the author's beliefs or philosophies (although he does come close). He earns his victories through hard work and preparation, properly applying Canon!Harry's natural talents and advantages. And as noted, the other characters typically turn out to be far more competent than Harry himself is expecting, earning his respect along the way despite not being "scientists".


For a much more spoilerish (though alphabetically sorted) overview of the plot, to help readers decide if they want to invest their time, I recommend the TVTropes page at http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/FanFic/HarryPotterAndTheMethodsOfRationality  .
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 29, 2013, 01:45:17 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on July 28, 2013, 07:59:06 PM
Oh and the most interesting and beloved character in the series is out of action the whole book, never appearing once.
Would that be Thom or Loyale, perhaps? 

I don't keep up with the WoT community, so I have no idea which characters might be the crowd favorites (although I do know Faile is almost certainly at the bottom of that list!). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 30, 2013, 07:16:39 PM
Quote from: Martok on July 29, 2013, 01:45:17 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on July 28, 2013, 07:59:06 PM
Oh and the most interesting and beloved character in the series is out of action the whole book, never appearing once.
Would that be Thom or Loyale, perhaps? 

I don't keep up with the WoT community, so I have no idea which characters might be the crowd favorites (although I do know Faile is almost certainly at the bottom of that list!).

Mat, although Loial does have a strong following. And briefly shows up in TPoD with a cameo; unfortunately in the later books he's often connected with the wretched Faile plotline, something neither he nor his fans are at all happy about.  :P

Thom is barely in the book either, if at all; I think I recall him being stuck back with Mat, just not under rocks.

I'll recall correctly soon; Mat certainly returns for WH, and while I don't recall him doing all that much (aside from finally meeting the Daughter of the Nine Moons) I do recall his part of the plot being the best in that book.


Meanwhile, I quickly caught up on the massive update to HPMOR yesterday: that's how to pull a clear-in-hindsight gut wrenching disaster in the plot! Nicely done. The author also throws out several good hints that he's on the final downhill slope and will be finishing soon. (Well relatively soon, next spring maybe.) Still nothing but love for that book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on August 02, 2013, 06:53:10 PM
I'm reading a great book about the TU-22 Blinder.  One of the most detailed single aicraft book I've read.  I had no idea the TU-22 was regularly used at low level, which lead me to this video: 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 04, 2013, 11:45:15 AM
Grey Tide in the East was an excellent WW1 Alt-history.  Grogheads has a book review of this.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 04, 2013, 12:56:14 PM
Quote from: republic on August 02, 2013, 06:53:10 PM
I'm reading a great book about the TU-22 Blinder.  One of the most detailed single aicraft book I've read.  I had no idea the TU-22 was regularly used at low level, which lead me to this video: 


Damn, those are some crazy passes!

What's the book you're reading?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 04, 2013, 03:25:05 PM
Quote from: Grimnirsson on July 29, 2013, 03:39:23 AM
Starting with the first book of the Liberation Trilogy by Rick Atkinson, An Army At Dawn. So far I like the style and it's the perfect fit for the game on our table right now Axis Empires: Totaler Krieg

I couldn't get into An Army at Dawn, but I'm just finishing up the second one, The Day of Battle.  I have the third one covering Normandy through the end of the war queued up, Guns at Last Light.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 04, 2013, 03:52:44 PM
Quote from: Toonces on August 04, 2013, 03:25:05 PM
Quote from: Grimnirsson on July 29, 2013, 03:39:23 AM
Starting with the first book of the Liberation Trilogy by Rick Atkinson, An Army At Dawn. So far I like the style and it's the perfect fit for the game on our table right now Axis Empires: Totaler Krieg

I couldn't get into An Army at Dawn, but I'm just finishing up the second one, The Day of Battle.  I have the third one covering Normandy through the end of the war queued up, Guns at Last Light.

You couldn't get into An Army at Dawn?  May I ask why? I thought it was better than The Day of Battle, though both were superb. Haven't read the last one yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 04, 2013, 04:00:21 PM
I really don't know anything about the North Africa campaign...which is actually a good reason to read the book, but I don't know.  Everytime I start I just get bored and put it back down.  It took me 3 tries to finish The Day of Battle.  In fact, I only bought the third book to be completist.  I'm not a fan of his writing style to be honest.

It might have more to do with the subject matter than anything else.  I dunno.  I'm not really familiar with the ETO, certainly prior to D-Day.  I enjoyed his book Crusade much more (about Desert Storm).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 04, 2013, 04:02:09 PM
I just started a book called The Red Knight last night.  Sounds like a poor-man's Game of Thrones.

Too early to tell how it is yet.

And I'm about 1/3 through a book called Phase Line Green, about the Marines in the battle for Hue in Vietnam.  Pretty quick, easy, first person account read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on August 04, 2013, 04:10:59 PM
Quote from: mirth on August 04, 2013, 12:56:14 PM
Damn, those are some crazy passes!

What's the book you're reading?

http://www.amazon.com/Tupolev-TU-22-Russias-Pioneering-Supersonic/dp/1844152413/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375650447&sr=8-1&keywords=TU-22+Blinder

It is very detailed and has some great anecdotes in it.  The more I read about Soviet era technology the more I wonder how we would have fared if the cold war went hot...  While we had the technological upper hand, I wonder how much we could offset their sheer numbers.  Especially when we beat the Germans using the 'more quantity less quality' method...  Of course...maybe if the Germans hadn't been preoccupied in the east their technological advancements would have beaten us...hmmm.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 05, 2013, 11:13:47 AM
Thanks for the link. Looks like an excellent book. I'll add it to my list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on August 05, 2013, 04:13:37 PM
just received the first Space Wolves omnibus - i couldnt see anything but 5 stars in the amazon reviews and ive enjoyed the Blood Angels and Ultramarines
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on August 05, 2013, 05:37:25 PM
Quote from: mirth on August 05, 2013, 11:13:47 AM
Thanks for the link. Looks like an excellent book. I'll add it to my list.

It is fantastic the more I read...  If you have a Half Price Books near you go check for it there.  I picked it up for $20 I think.

I'm thinking of clearing out some of my collection, I think I'll post them here first before I sell on Amazon.  There are some things if I just got shipping + $1 I'd be happy lol
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on August 05, 2013, 05:48:34 PM
Undaunted Courage

http://www.amazon.com/Undaunted-Courage-Meriwether-Jefferson-American/dp/0684826976/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375742883&sr=8-1&keywords=undaunted+courage
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 05, 2013, 07:20:48 PM
Quote from: Bison on August 05, 2013, 05:48:34 PM
Undaunted Courage

http://www.amazon.com/Undaunted-Courage-Meriwether-Jefferson-American/dp/0684826976/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1375742883&sr=8-1&keywords=undaunted+courage

Good deal - I saw that last night for 1.99 and bought it myself. Soon as I'm done with Life in the French Foreign Legion, I'm going to get into that one.

Although this one has my attention for the next purchase - Stalin's Hammer
http://www.amazon.com/Stalins-Hammer-Rome-Novella-ebook/dp/B00AP2VRNW/ref=pd_sim_kstore_22

Haven't bought it yet. I like the Axis of Time Trilogy to an extent, and this one has me curious.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on August 06, 2013, 08:14:05 AM
Speaking of good reads I have a question.

Does anyone know what the exact quote was when Robert E. Lee was being questioned about some general?  It's the one where his answer was something like "You asked me what I thought of his skills, not what I thought of him personally."  Or something like that.

My google fu is weak for some reason on this topic.  Any help appreciated.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 08, 2013, 05:49:44 PM
Just finished Inquis Exterminatus - Images from the Dark Millenium, a WH40K art book. Took one night to peruse. Next is Baneblade by Guy Haley and after that perhaps Priests of Mars by Graham McNeil. Prepping for the release of the new Space Hulk :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 08, 2013, 06:58:17 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on August 06, 2013, 08:14:05 AM
Speaking of good reads I have a question.

Does anyone know what the exact quote was when Robert E. Lee was being questioned about some general?  It's the one where his answer was something like "You asked me what I thought of his skills, not what I thought of him personally."  Or something like that.

My google fu is weak for some reason on this topic.  Any help appreciated.

I found this quote:

A visitor once asked Robert E. Lee what he thought of a certain individual.  "He's a very fine gentleman," Lee replied.

"He says some very uncomplimentary things about you.  What do you think about that?"

"You didn't ask me what he thought of me.  You asked me what I thought of him."


It is contained in Faith Prints: Youth Devotions for Every Day of the Year (http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Faith+Prints+Steve+Swanson&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3AFaith+Prints+Steve+Swanson) by Steve Swanson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 09, 2013, 12:31:17 AM
Quote from: Toonces on August 04, 2013, 04:02:09 PM
I just started a book called The Red Knight last night.  Sounds like a poor-man's Game of Thrones.

Too early to tell how it is yet.

I'm very much enjoying The Red Knight.  http://www.amazon.com/Red-Knight-Traitor-Cycle-ebook/dp/B007ZFPUL2/ref=sr_1_1_title_1_kin?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1376025607&sr=1-1&keywords=the+red+knight+by+miles+cameron

It is sort of like a light Game of Thrones (very light), but with way more monsters.  The writing is pretty tight and the pace is solid.  I'm about 35% through and I foresee me finishing this book and going right for book 2 if it's in the library.  Two thumbs up (so far) and solidly recommended for fantasy fans.

I just put in a BFAO* today that frustrates me because I already have about 2 months worth of backlog of reading to get through.  I picked up:

The Stewart Trilogy by Nigel Tranter:  http://www.amazon.com/Stewart-Trilogy-Misrule-Princes-Captive/dp/0340391154/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1376025759&sr=1-3&keywords=the+stewart+trilogy
But I actually bought it as 3 very good condition hardcovers rather than the exceptionally high priced softback 3-novels-in-1 version.  I totally enjoyed The Bruce Trilogy and Stewart picks up where Bruce leaves off.  Another very highly recommended book (The Bruce Trilogy that is).

I also ordered The History of the Art of War, Volume II and Volume III by Hans Delbruck.  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0803265859/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I skipped Volume I for some reason.  These look like good books on the periods of conflict in which I'm most interested, and at 600 pages each there appears to be a lot of meat.  I went bargain hunting in the used section so I think I got them for about $3 each. 

Man alive, when am I ever going to get around to finishing these books?

*Big Freaking Amazon Order
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on August 09, 2013, 08:40:32 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on August 08, 2013, 06:58:17 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on August 06, 2013, 08:14:05 AM
Speaking of good reads I have a question.

Does anyone know what the exact quote was when Robert E. Lee was being questioned about some general?  It's the one where his answer was something like "You asked me what I thought of his skills, not what I thought of him personally."  Or something like that.

My google fu is weak for some reason on this topic.  Any help appreciated.

I found this quote:

A visitor once asked Robert E. Lee what he thought of a certain individual.  "He's a very fine gentleman," Lee replied.

"He says some very uncomplimentary things about you.  What do you think about that?"

"You didn't ask me what he thought of me.  You asked me what I thought of him."


It is contained in Faith Prints: Youth Devotions for Every Day of the Year (http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Faith+Prints+Steve+Swanson&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3AFaith+Prints+Steve+Swanson) by Steve Swanson.

Perfect!  Thanks Greybriar.  That is the quote I was thinking of and that book you provided the link to is a bonus. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 09, 2013, 10:00:00 AM
You're welcome, W8taminute.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 10, 2013, 09:40:56 PM
Well, right on schedule I finished Winter's Heart (Book 9 of The Wheel of Time), halfway through the worst of the slog by all accounts. Or more than halfway. 2/3 of the way. Feels like only halfway though I guess. ;)

But oddly, the same thing has happened this time that happened with me from Books 6 up until now: varying levels of disappointment, increasing from 6 on, after finishing them on my first reads, and yet during rereads for the new releases I wasn't nearly as disappointed with the books. Probably that's due to going in with low expectations, but I can think of another couple of reasons, too: I'm not repeatedly waiting for years between books for only one new entry; and I know for sure now where the end is, and I can be reasonably sure a significant portion of the end (four whole books worth) will be worth my time and effort.

So yeah, WH this time, not so bad. Not great, but not bad. Middling but bearable. The big three problems of the book still hurt, sure: the wretched Faile subplot spends a boring amount of time going precisely nowhere and accomplishing nothing; a lot of time is spent on what is literally a useless Rand subplot (as Rand himself eventually comes to acknowledge toward the end of it); and the final battle is constituted by random little snippets of nothing much spread out over most of a day booktime with occasional special effects flashiness substituting for actual story design, with the end result being that the villains are routed offscreen aside from one minor Forse being killed (again) toward the end of it without anyone even realizing what was really accomplished by doing so.

Also, while I get the basic idea of pitting one kind of evil against another kind of evil and letting them destroy each other, how the good guys go about actually doing it seems very vague and even counter-intuitive in several way with what Jordan seemed to have spent a lot of effort establishing over the past nine books (including this one). Maybe RJ had this generally in mind from the beginning and thought by the time he got here he would have invented something suitable for how to represent it properly -- and then when the time came to write it he, well, had a deadline crashing in on him and was feeling sicker than usual from the ailment that eventually killed him (God rest his soul). I don't know, I just know that it's a lot of puffery (even somewhat literally).

Also-also, I swear RJ's habit of having to describe EVERY SINGLE MINOR AND TERTIARY AND QUATERNARY CHARACTER IN EVERY SCENE IS GOING TO DRIVE ME ABSOLUTELY CRAZY BEFORE THE END OF THE SERIES IF HE (or Sanderson) KEEPS AT IT!! Crystal Dragon Jesus Christ. It's like having to suck the taint to get to what good stuff is there, and sometimes nothing is there but a mouthful of taint. (...that sounds... look it's in the books, okay? It doesn't mean what it sounds like it means...)

Also-also-also, I had forgotten RJ's bizarre habit of making his first chapter in each book a "prologue" when there's nothing specially prologuish to distinguish them from the official "first" chapters, enters a level of near self-parody in this book. I seriously thought someone had messed up the Kindle formatting when I saw this huge block on the progress bar without chapter jumps. But nope, the so-called prologue really was 10% of the book's total length. Total length, mind you, including the long glossaries and other non-narrative pages. Counting only the narrative pages, the percentage was higher.

And then, prepping Book 10, I saw the same ridiculous block again. Now at 13%. That's insane. But then while thinking "What the hell RJ, really, this isn't a novella, you know", I suddenly put some pieces together and the reasoning became clear. Back around Book 7 (at least, maybe earlier) TOR had started to release final (or near-final) drafts of the "Prologues" for marketing purposes several months before the books' release. Eventually they started selling the Prologues instead of releasing them into the wild for free. Not sure when that started, maybe as early as Book 7, I don't recall clearly, but I'm fairly sure this was already in play by the time of Book 9's release.

So that, I expect, is the explanation: TOR sold the prologues separately so the prologues had to get physically larger to be perceived as worth (in effect) buying twice.

(This was also around the time that TOR made RJ write out an actual prequel novella he had provided years previously for some famous fantasy author compilation, expanding it out into a whole relatively-half-sized novel called The New Spring. I started reading that a book or two ago, just to see if I would care, and got several chapters in before I said to hell with it and flung it off my Kindle.)


Ah well, 2/3 of the worst of the slog done, and to my amazement I'm actually looking forward to Crossroads of Twilight, generally regarded as the worst WOT novel of the series, simply because to me it will be entirely new material! WH almost was, because I had only read it once, back during its initial release ten years ago or so and I had forgotten a lot of the details (except for the few important things that actually got accomplished of course). Plus at the rate I've been steadily chewing through the books for the past couple of months, I know it won't take more than ten days or so, and then I'll be past the slog uphill and skiing down the golden slope. PRAY! -- PRAY THAT MY SPIRIT SHALL NOT BE CRUSHED AND THAT I SHALL EMERGE TRIUMPHANT FROM THE GAPING HIND END OF THis, um, wait I need to rethink this metaphor...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 11, 2013, 06:18:03 AM
LOL!  I feel your pain, Jason.  Just remember: only one more slog to get through -- you're almost there! 




I'm still working on The Princes of Ireland.  I'm now reading the second-to-last section, which means I'm about 80% finished with it. 

It's weird:  I would say the book isn't all that great a read, yet I find myself continuing to flip through the pages anyway...and the next thing I know, I've finished the section and am ready for the next one.  It would seem this is one read that's greater than the sum of its parts. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 11, 2013, 06:42:38 AM
Just finished '2-1 Pony' by Charles.R.Carr about his tour of duty in 'Nam in the 9th Div. Now reading part 2 of 'Armoured Bears' which is about 3rd Panzer Div, and next in line is 'Ghost, Thunderbolt and Wizard' which is about cavalry commanders Mosby, Morgan and Forrest. All three are from Stackpole and were free downloads for the Kindle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 17, 2013, 02:15:03 AM
I'm reading The Judging Eye by R. Scott Bakker.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 17, 2013, 03:11:36 AM
Despite my original resolution to move onto the next book on my list, I've ended up starting The Rebels of Ireland after all -- I found Princes to be just compelling enough to continue the saga.  Christopher Moore's Sacre Bleu will have to wait... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on August 17, 2013, 06:39:06 AM
I see that The Desert of Stars is out so will be picking it up for my weekend reading. I really enjoyed the first book in the series (Through Struggle, The Stars) and have high hopes for the sequel. :)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on August 17, 2013, 07:11:11 AM
I"m working on Africa's Commandos - review coming soon.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51r8DCG3LAL._SY346_PJlook-inside-v2%2CTopRight%2C1%2C0_SH20_.jpg&hash=09e68388df1a168014ca63cebf8192bb9b1ebac4)

short version: one of the best non-fiction collections of military memoirs you'll ever find

http://www.amazon.com/AFRICAS-COMMANDOS-Rhodesian-Infantry-Airborne/dp/1907677755/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376741346&sr=8-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 17, 2013, 10:30:12 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on August 17, 2013, 02:15:03 AM
I'm reading The Judging Eye by R. Scott Bakker.

Excellent! Hope you enjoy it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 17, 2013, 03:31:20 PM
Me, too, Bob. I wish I hadn't taken a break from the series as it was hard getting back in the groove.  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 17, 2013, 03:35:10 PM
I know exactly what you mean, but its worth the effort.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 17, 2013, 04:53:39 PM
I just started Ender's Game. Never read it before.

Next, who knows. I'd like to get Medium Raw read, maybe finish Tokyo Vice as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Kushan on August 17, 2013, 08:50:36 PM
I started reading A Game of Thrones the other day. I've already read it once but its been awhile. I got 1/3 of the way through the second book and quit reading. Hoping I can finally make it through the whole series this go around.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on August 17, 2013, 08:55:03 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on August 17, 2013, 06:39:06 AM
I see that The Desert of Stars is out so will be picking it up for my weekend reading. I really enjoyed the first book in the series (Through Struggle, The Stars) and have high hopes for the sequel. :)

I Through Struggle the Stars on my Kindle waiting to be read. Just haven't gotten around to it. Is it worth the time?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 18, 2013, 08:08:45 AM
Quote from: Kushan on August 17, 2013, 08:50:36 PM
I started reading A Game of Thrones the other day. I've already read it once but its been awhile. I got 1/3 of the way through the second book and quit reading. Hoping I can finally make it through the whole series this go around.

I did this same thing with the first book, at LEAST three times. I finally got past the hump and got into a roller-coaster of a ride. I'm currently on the fourth book, about 2/3 of the way through - and stopped yet again. It has nothing to do with the story, it's rather engaging; it's more just me finding shinier things to read right now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 18, 2013, 11:53:05 AM
B_C, enjoy Ender's Game.  I would suggest stopping there.  When I first read the book a few years ago, there were only three in the series.  Now there's like, eight.  And I encourage you and Kushan to finish A Game of Thrones.  The sixth book was disappointing (to me at least), but the other five I enjoyed quite well.  And with the wealth of characters, it's best to stay on top of it lest you miss some plot point that is crucial.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on August 18, 2013, 01:05:47 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on August 17, 2013, 08:55:03 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on August 17, 2013, 06:39:06 AM
I see that The Desert of Stars is out so will be picking it up for my weekend reading. I really enjoyed the first book in the series (Through Struggle, The Stars) and have high hopes for the sequel. :)

I Through Struggle the Stars on my Kindle waiting to be read. Just haven't gotten around to it. Is it worth the time?

IMO it is well worth it if you like military SF.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on August 18, 2013, 02:24:32 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 17, 2013, 04:53:39 PM
I just started Ender's Game. Never read it before.

Next, who knows. I'd like to get Medium Raw read, maybe finish Tokyo Vice as well.

:o   Im always surprised when I hear that a wargamer just read this book for the first time.
its like mandatory reading at some point before you finish middle school.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 18, 2013, 02:31:34 PM
I was never much of a sci-fi reader in middle school. Instead, I read books like Guadacanal Diary, A Night to Remember, and anything war- or battle-related.

I DID read Starship Troopers, and it's one of my favorites to this day, if that counts for anything. (I even have the board game from way back in the day; my dad played it all the time with a friend of his.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 18, 2013, 03:37:41 PM
Just about done with Baneblade (WH40K) and moving on to Priests of Mars (also WH40K). Then it's on to my Big Honkin' Ancient Roman Reading list, with the imminent release of Rome II approaching quickly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on August 20, 2013, 06:16:33 AM
I am about half way through Storm Surge which is the latest Destroyermen novel by Taylor Anderson. Although I am enjoying the story, the number of plotlines is starting to get out of hand with no end in sight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 21, 2013, 08:56:44 AM
Still on schedule, I finished Crossroads of Twilight, Book 10 of The Wheel of Time. The first new WoT book I've read since Book 9 was released back in whatever year that was. ... ...... 13 years ago? Really?

sigh.

(I knew reading this series was going to make me melancholy for reasons I sure as hell am not going to talk about on a public forum, plus also getting old. But dang.)

Anyway, yeah I'm still entirely glad I put off reading this until the series was finished. Because if I had waited another three years for Book 10, after the increasing disappointments of Books 6-9, and had spend a good 20 hours of my life reading this thing, hoping desperately that RJ was going to finally get things together -- I would have been UTTERLY LIVID! (Instead some friends of mine took the bullet and warned me off.)

As it is, strange as this is going to sound, from the larger perspective of knowing the series is finished and trusting those same friends that the last four books are worth the effort, I'm only ambivalent about CoT. If WoT is one ultra-large 14 volume book, CoT would be a draggy five or six chapters before the climactic last 1/3 (or thereabouts).

I feel reasonably sure if I ever decide to spend five months of my life reading this series again, I'll just skip CoT as an experiment and see what happens. So much of almost nothing happens, I feel kind of confident that what little does move forward would be summarized in Book 11 well enough that, having read Book 10 once originally I could go yep, no problem, I remember that, moving on.

Alternately, if I could find some way to transfer my Kindle files to a Word doc, and if I had raving insanity time and energy I didn't prefer to spend elsewhere, I might try an experimental fan edit of trimming down Books 6 and 7 to one book (since they largely deal with the same topics), Books 8 and 9 to one book (because like hell would I try to end a book on 10's material), and then trim Book 10 down to a novella extension of chapters for appending to the start of Book 11. Sure, the two fully compressed new books still wouldn't be as strong as Book 5, but they'd be punchier and move along more quickly than they do. Book 10 I suspect could be effectively trimmed to maybe seven chapters, and as such wouldn't be the strongest way to start Book 11, but God knows it would have to be better than it currently is.

Because seriously, I raise my hand on oath to heaven, I promise never to write a book with so little going on as CoT. Nowhere close. Practically every main group of the plot is stuck somewhere frustrating and boring FOR THE WHOLE BOOK, despite numerous chapters devoted to them nevertheless. (Not to Rand's side of the plot, thank Christ -- he only gets a few chapters -- but then most of the book is set a few days before, during, and after the climactic action from Book 9 way off in the distance.)

Let CoT be a lesson to all aspiring epic fantasy writers: if your characters are bored and miserable and unhappy 100% of the time, YOUR READERS WILL BE TOO!!!

I don't even think the main villains show up in this book, aside from a brief cameo appearance by Mesaana and the Superfade, which is nice while it lasts, but it's typical of this book that we get to see what Mesaana 'really' looks like while she's camping at the White Tower and yet absolutely no useful hints as to who she's operating as are revealed. (Other than denying the prevalent reader theory at the time, based on that character's introduction in a chapter five books previously with a Forsaken chapter icon that didn't seem to have one of the Forsaken in it. So... does that count as progress? By this book's standards, it does.)

This is the first (and I'm sure the last) book of the series not to even try to end on a climactic action sequence. 10% before the end, I'm still reading chapters that are dawdling along like we're somewhere in the setup 1/3 of another book; then 7%; then good Lord 5%; then suddenly when something vaguely important seems to be happening IT'S TIME FOR THE GLOSSARY THE BOOK IS OVER!

Never. I will never end out a book that way. I may not have an action sequence to end out Edge of Justice, but I provided a meaty Macro-Fight Sequence during the final third, and the chapters that do end out resolve a major foreshadowed incident with major crises. And if possible I won't release EoJ by itself (which I could have done several times in the past few years already), I'll release Song of Justice at the same time so people can move right along to finish out this part of the story and resolve a lot of plotlines.

Crossroads of Twilight, simply put, was not written for the sake of the readers, the ones who pay the bills. Nor am I cynical enough to believe it was written merely to sell one more book to fans desperately clinging to some hope the series would end well. The more I think of it, the more I suspect it this is a fleshed out first quarter to Knife of Dreams, where RJ thought certain plot things had to be slightly advanced, but catching readers up on various strands of the plot was taking so long that he didn't think it was going to work as the start of KoD and so puffed it out even more to try to make a book of it. (No, you should have reduced it and stopped indulging in every quirk of description of personal dress and habit for every hexiary minor character who drifts across the page.)

As Perrin himself (one of the three main heroes) says on page 671 (only 84% through the story), toward the end of an incident that seemed to be promising some interesting excitement but which literally amounts to winnowing weevils out of grain: "It was all an elaborate bit of nonsense, fluff and feathers."

I gather RJ finally started listening to his characters (and maybe his readers) while writing Book 11, but it was too late for him to live to see his own series finished.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 21, 2013, 05:25:55 PM
Well done, Jason.  I myself didn't mind Crown of Swords and Path of Daggers so much -- they weren't great reads, but at least I didn't find them to be horrible -- but books 9 and 10 are absolutely brutal in terms of their lack of pacing.  (A snail dragging a 50 lb. weight moves faster.) 

I envy you; you're finally about to get back to the good stuff!  I'll have to be more careful about reading your posts from here on out (at least once you finish Knife of Dreams), as I don't wish to spoil things for myself.  ;) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 22, 2013, 08:13:33 AM
Yeah I'm trying not to post too many spoilers even for books 10 years oMG I FEEL SO OLD AND EMPTY!!! (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Fapathic.gif&hash=202c18a3475af4022f869b3bd74d88043dbe93fb)

Ahem.

My mini review for KoD is that the first 10% (which covers most but not all of the prologue again) is already better than the totality of CoT despite focusing mostly on minor characters; kicking off with the long-deserved butt-kicking of a major minor villain and the start of a strategic duel between ultra-generals (one of whom has never been seen before and the other of whom only showed up once before in CoT's prologue -- thus strengthening my theory that CoT and KoD could be usefully compiled) plus an appearance by one of the Forsaken announcing a hugely important slaughter (though off-screen). And while still a bit draggy in the usual ways, useful (also dangerous) contact is finally made between Perrin and the army he's been trailing for two books now.

You'll know what I'm talking about of course, and the feeling of THANK GOD FINALLY PLOT CONSTIPATION IS BEING RELIEVED OR WORDS TO THAT EFFECT!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on August 22, 2013, 09:25:03 AM
Just knocked off Sandman Slim by Richard Kadrey as well as the second book in the series, Kill the Dead and I'm eagerly awaiting the third and fourth books to arrive from Amazon. Meet James Stark, aka Sandman Slim, a talented magician sent to Hell by a rival, where he spends eleven years fighting in the arena before escaping back to the different hell that is Los Angeles, seeking revenge against those who tore apart his life. Very crisp writing with sharp dialogue, a wicked sense of humor and plenty of action. Reminds me of Gaiman's American Gods in some ways, except more straightforward (you're not having to guess who the players actually are). Highly recommended for fans who can take a little dark humor with their fantasy.

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5776788-sandman-slim (http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5776788-sandman-slim)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 22, 2013, 05:08:51 PM
Sounds interesting Steelie - I may have to add 'em to my never diminishing 'want' list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on August 22, 2013, 05:31:03 PM
Cool! Added to my wish list. Looks like there is a fifth book as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on August 22, 2013, 07:59:05 PM
Sweet. If you read 'em, let us know what you think. I'm thoroughly enjoying the books.

BTW, the series in order is:

Sandman Slim
Kill the Dead
Aloha from Hell
Devil Said Bang
Kill City Blues
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on August 28, 2013, 12:50:12 PM
currently Tristram Shandy. what a great and strange novel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 28, 2013, 08:12:19 PM
I put aside Priests of Mars...it is too techno-freaky-styley for me right now. I'll try again later. And now...on to some ancients reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on August 28, 2013, 09:15:04 PM
Africa's Commandos (http://grogheads.com/?p=2294)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 29, 2013, 10:17:39 AM
I went to my son's high school last night (he's a freshman), where they had parents doing a follow-the-schedule thing. In his English class, I found out his first book to read is...Ender's Game.

She wanted to be sure they got a chance to read it before the movie comes out in November.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 29, 2013, 12:59:44 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 29, 2013, 10:17:39 AM
I went to my son's high school last night (he's a freshman), where they had parents doing a follow-the-schedule thing. In his English class, I found out his first book to read is...Ender's Game.

She wanted to be sure they got a chance to read it before the movie comes out in November.

Pretty cool English teacher right there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 29, 2013, 08:56:45 PM
Just began Legions of Rome by Stephen Dando Collins, a history of every Roman legion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on August 29, 2013, 08:58:39 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 29, 2013, 08:56:45 PM
Just began Legions of Rome by Stephen Dando Collins, a history of every Roman legion.

This sounds quite interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2013, 08:22:21 AM
About 25 pages in and thankfully it is quite accessible. It's about 600 pages but shouldn't be too rough as it is broken up nicely with maps, illustrations and photos. It's sort of like a small coffee table book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on August 30, 2013, 08:24:24 AM
I do like coffee and occasionally tables.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2013, 08:27:57 AM
You will dig this then. And it can be had for about 20.00. (Insert mom joke here)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on August 30, 2013, 11:21:58 AM
Quote from: Gusington on August 30, 2013, 08:27:57 AM
You will dig this then. And it can be had for about 20.00. (Insert mom joke here)

You must be feeling better, your sense of humour is back on track.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on August 30, 2013, 05:20:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 29, 2013, 08:56:45 PM
Just began Legions of Rome by Stephen Dando Collins, a history of every Roman legion.

Getting ready for Rome II eh?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2013, 07:22:34 PM
^O yes...ooooo yes....

Am almost back to normal Breezy. Even went running today. And then cramped in the heat.

But better, still.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 31, 2013, 12:57:40 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 29, 2013, 08:56:45 PM
Just began Legions of Rome by Stephen Dando Collins, a history of every Roman legion.

Wishlisted that promptly!


So, finished Knife of Dreams (book 11 of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time) on schedule last night. Oddly, I feel like I just finished reading my first WOT book in 10 years, but that isn't true: Crossroads of Twilight was the first new WOT book I had read in 10 years!

On thinking about it, I decided that's because CoT never felt finished. People meander around setting up slightly for future events (all fluff and feathers as one of the main protagonists, Perrin, puts it himself in his last chapter of that book), and then the book just stops at the moment of the first real crisis point of the whole tome.

Things happen in KoD -- almost all the setup from CoT (and earlier) is resolved except for retaking the White Tower, and just about every important plot regarding the rebel Tower is still resolved along the way (mainly having to do with a set of murders being solved and a Forsaken being exposed).

I could tell immediately that KoD was going to be better (even without having heard from various friends and other readers) because right off the bat during the prologue (another amusingly long 12% booklength epic in itself) there's quite a bit of decisive action that doesn't involve retelling the events of a previous book from another perspective, including the dramatic defeat of one of the major minor villains (so to speak). I haven't finished reading the prologue of The Gathering Storm yet (itself only 8% length by the way, which also seems a good sign), but aside from an opening scene that drags out a bit too long (yet in a very Stephen Kingish way) focusing on a random Borderland farmer, there are already a number of interesting point of view advancements to the plot including the unexpected death of a minor ally from KoD. (From everything I've heard TGD is even better than KoD.)

My theory that CoT and KoD were originally intended to be one book advanced a little farther with the realization that the late Darryl K. Sweet's cover art for CoT illustrates a scene that doesn't occur until KoD! -- but then, his cover art for KoD depicts a scene that doesn't happen until TGD (I suppose) either! I can't really imagine that CoT, KoD and TGD were all intended to be one book: I have to suppose RJ changed his mind about what needed to happen on Mat's side of the plot in order to get to the cover scene (which I'm fine with because what's there instead is very good), but he must have originally intended that scene for the book because practically every time the plot goes back to Mat in KoD that scene is being foreshadowed. (I'm being vague as to specifics here in case someone doesn't want spoilers; it'll be obvious enough to anyone who keeps going up through Book 11.)

This did give me the idea that instead of converting Books 6&7, 8&9, and 10&11 into three books (which would work well enough although Book 9's climactic plot action isn't staged very well), I wish I could take a stab at converting books 6-8 and 9-11 into two books. Books 6-8 would be largely devoted to Rand freeing Illian from Sammael and then defending that country from the encroaching Seanchan invasion (on his side of the plot); and to the creation and growth of the Black Tower into a fearsome army support group (also on his side of the plot); while Elayne and Nyn discover how to settle the bad summer weather and deal with that side of the plot. Also, as annoying as the foolish competition over Perrin is, that could all be condensed into one book. ;) (His wife is captured at the very end of Book 8, and after that the competition naturally ends up through Book 11.) The Forses who had died but hadn't been balefired out of existence would return and Moridin would start consolidating his team back together instead of letting them compete against one another.

Then in the new book 7 (now books 9, 10, and 11), the Perrin vs. Shaido plot would be played out and resolved; the courtship of Mat and the Daughter of the Nine Moons would be introduced and resolved (Mat having been out of action all of Book 8 ) up to the point where they marry anyway; Rand would go into hiding from being hunted by the Forses, deal with his rebel Black Tower assassins, resolve (sort of) a huge plot point haunting the series since before Book 1, rest up from doing that, and get back in the saddle with a fight against an army of 100,000 Trollocs plus springing a Forsaken trap; Egwene would get the rebel White Tower moving and all the plot inside the WT (featuring mostly new minor characters) would be compressed into one book; and Elayne would go through all the mess of reclaiming the crown of Andor in only one book.

True, the resulting books might be significantly larger than any of the other books, say 1000 pages instead of 6 or 7 hundred, but plots would still move a lot faster relatively (since as it stands the books cover around 4200 pages total, possibly more). And true, much more of Book 11 would be retained than any of the other books by proportion, but I expect much more of Book 10 would be dropped by the same proportion. ;)

Unfortunately, unless I want to spend the time typing out those two compilation books by hand (at 1000ish pages each), I don't see any way to accomplish such a fan edit yet. Amazon naturally wants to protect its publishers' copyrights (which in principle I agree with) so its Kindle software prevents copy-pasting to other documents, and as of Win8 they hide their books in hidden folders split into fragments with hexadecimal titles so even if the fragments are found it won't be very obvious which fragments go to which books (making it more difficult to use 3rd party software to convert Kindle files to a pdf which can be copy-pasted from.) I do have direct access to the files from my Kindle on my older Macintosh, though, so maybe I can use a converter by that route... {puzzling}

If I did do the project, I'd have to restrict it to my own useage (and my Dad's perhaps, as he's almost finished with Book 2), since that would be copyright violation to have even one book (much moreso six books) of material wandering out free in the world, and that wouldn't be fair to TOR or to RJ's heirs. (Sanderson's final three books from RJ's notes wouldn't be touched on this plan.) Unless of course TOR decided to publish the results themselves, which isn't entirely impossible -- they actually have published extensive catchup summaries and notes by one of their editors/authors, despite those being also found totally for free on TOR's own website! -- but seeing as how I'm only a barely published author myself, it might as well be. Impossible, I mean. ;)


Oh well, the best thing I can say about KoD is that I almost felt like I was reading The Fires of Heaven (not quite, things don't move along that far or spectacularly), which I haven't felt like since, um, reading TFoH.  ;D SIX FREAKING BOOKS AGO!

And it's hard to believe that, if my reading stays on schedule, I'll finish WOT, really actually finish the series, finally, in 30 days.

The slog is well and truly over (I hope), and it's all downhill into and through the Last Battle(s) from here!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 31, 2013, 04:41:55 PM
^You...are almost as easy as me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on August 31, 2013, 10:00:39 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 31, 2013, 04:41:55 PM
^You...are almost as easy as me.

Your wife says you're 30 seconds easy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 01, 2013, 09:18:05 AM
Incidentally I was wrong, I may have been so much expecting another long prologue my eyes filled in some loops: the TGD prologue was only 5% of the book, not 8%.

ONLY FIVE PERCENT OF THE TEXT DEVOTED TO THE PROLOGUE!? -- WHAT WITCHCRAFT IS THIS??!?!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 01, 2013, 09:34:06 AM
Breezy your Mom says I went 30 seconds too long.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 01, 2013, 10:34:14 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 01, 2013, 09:34:06 AM
Breezy your Mom says I went 30 seconds too long.

..... errrrrr   Dad?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 04, 2013, 02:08:41 PM
Yes?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 04, 2013, 05:59:44 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 04, 2013, 02:08:41 PM
Yes?

Can I have an allowance?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 05, 2013, 07:24:19 AM
Sure, as long as you don't use it to buy maple flavored ribbed condoms like I've warned you about before.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 05, 2013, 11:11:48 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 05, 2013, 07:24:19 AM
Sure, as long as you don't use it to buy maple flavored ribbed condoms like I've warned you about before.

I only want 7.95 a month for NetFlix. So I can watch the crack whore on the series Breaking Bad. My friend Jay says she's hot in a weird way.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 05, 2013, 01:01:51 PM
I need to watch Breaking Bad too. Now you have me intrigued.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 05, 2013, 01:03:55 PM
Quote from: Windigo on September 05, 2013, 11:11:48 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 05, 2013, 07:24:19 AM
Sure, as long as you don't use it to buy maple flavored ribbed condoms like I've warned you about before.

I only want 7.95 a month for NetFlix. So I can watch the crack whore on the series Breaking Bad. My friend Jay says she's hot in a weird way.

Or you can watch the prison lesbians in Orange is the New Black.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 05, 2013, 01:19:33 PM
Or The Man from Nowhere or Arahan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 05, 2013, 01:39:30 PM
Don't listen to them Dad.... 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 05, 2013, 02:06:34 PM
UGESH SARCAR'S 3RD DEGREE!

...wait, no, that's too easy, because that show truly sucks bilbo's baggins.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 05, 2013, 02:29:19 PM
Hahaha!!

There is some great lovecraftian stuff on Netflix too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 08, 2013, 03:18:59 PM
I finally finished off Edward Rutherfurd's The Rebels of Ireland this morning.  While overall I enjoyed it, I confess the last few chapters were disappointing, including the end.  In general, the two-book series was a nice jaunt through Irish history, but it felt rather shallow to me. 



Next up, something a little different:  The Book of the Dun Cow by Walter Wangerin.  I remember reading (and liking) it when I was ten or so, and was recently motivated to peruse its pages once more. 

I've already read several chapters, and I marvel that it's considered a children's story.  True, the writing isn't exactly adult per se, but I don't know that I would ever let my kid read (if I had one), at least not until they were a certain age.  Indeed, I'm now somewhat astonished my folks let *me* read it at the age I did (even if I was always reading a couple levels beyond most kids my age). 

Anyway, it's as enjoyable as I remember; definitely a good book so far.  It'll be a quick one too, obviously, but I don't mind that. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on September 09, 2013, 07:40:31 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 08, 2013, 03:18:59 PM

Next up, something a little different:  The Book of the Dun Cow by Walter Wangerin.  I remember reading (and liking) it when I was ten or so, and was recently motivated to peruse its pages once more. 

I've already read several chapters, and I marvel that it's considered a children's story.  True, the writing isn't exactly adult per se, but I don't know that I would ever let my kid read (if I had one), at least not until they were a certain age.  Indeed, I'm now somewhat astonished my folks let *me* read it at the age I did (even if I was always reading a couple levels beyond most kids my age). 

Anyway, it's as enjoyable as I remember; definitely a good book so far.  It'll be a quick one too, obviously, but I don't mind that.

I had to read this for a high school English class. I never really got it. I've never run into anyone outside of that class who has read it, though.  You're right, it definitely doesn't come across as a children's book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 09, 2013, 08:46:43 AM
I love that book (of the Dun Cow)! -- but dang the sequel is suicidally horrid.

As much as I love the first book I ought to give the sequel another chance, I guess, if I can find it in my stacks somewhere, although I suspect I threw it away. ;) But there's a reason why it isn't as (relatively) famous as the first book.

And yeah, there's no way I'd read even the first book to my nieces at their age. That's a young adult fantasy (at least) posing as a 'children's' story. Granted, kids nowadays aren't as tough as they used to be, but still...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 09, 2013, 09:25:28 AM
I just started reading Sarum by Edward Rutherfurd (http://www.edwardrutherfurd.com/).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 09, 2013, 07:00:51 PM
^Great book! I have been thinking about re-reading Sarum recently. Rutherford also wrote one about London that fits nicely inside the greater narrative as well as a book about the history of Russia which I have yet to read.

EDIT: Just clicked your link. Looks like Rutherford wrote a few more books as well that I might need to check out including a (Gus Alert!) one about New York.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 09, 2013, 07:15:22 PM
^I have that book in my mahogany-lined, to-read library next to the brandy snifters.

A lot of my friends and family have read Rutherford, either London, Paris or some others and many are 'meh' about him, that's why I haven't jumped on the book yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 09, 2013, 07:22:37 PM
Read Sarum. IIRC it spans from just after the ice Age all the way up to modern times, following several family groups as they wax and wane in significance.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 09, 2013, 07:55:07 PM
Frederick Pohl died just recently... RIP
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 09, 2013, 09:24:17 PM
Sarum eh...got it up on Amazon now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on September 10, 2013, 06:43:40 AM
I was looking through popular Amazon science fiction and I stumbled across Empire (In Her Name Redemption Trilogy) by Michael R. Hicks.  The author offers the first book (Empire) for free so I thought I'd give it a whirl.  Wow...I haven't had a book grab my attention that fast in a very long time. 

According to Kindle, I've read 31% of the book in 2 days.. Which for me is amazing since I read so slow plus I have so little time to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on September 10, 2013, 07:37:51 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on September 09, 2013, 07:00:51 PM
^Great book! I have been thinking about re-reading Sarum recently. Rutherford also wrote one about London that fits nicely inside the greater narrative as well as a book about the history of Russia which I have yet to read.

EDIT: Just clicked your link. Looks like Rutherford wrote a few more books as well that I might need to check out including a (Gus Alert!) one about New York.

I read Russia by Rutherford a few years ago and was a little unimpressed.  Maybe I need to give him another chance.  He seems to be one of the only people writing in the vein of James Michener, whose books I love.  Russia was ok, just didn't really keep me enthralled.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2013, 07:48:37 AM
Yeah I've read that Rutherford wants to be the new Michener but so far has fallen short.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 10, 2013, 11:58:19 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 09, 2013, 07:15:22 PM
^I have that book in my mahogany-lined, to-read library next to the brandy snifters.

A lot of my friends and family have read Rutherford, either London, Paris or some others and many are 'meh' about him, that's why I haven't jumped on the book yet.
Count me as one of those in the "meh" category.  (See my above comments regarding The Rebels of Ireland.) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Lafayette on September 10, 2013, 12:39:07 PM
I would say that Sarum is definitely his best, and like the other England-based ones (London, The Forest(?)) also.  I think they have declined in quality as he has gone along, and found Paris a real slog (and New York not much better).  But Sarum is excellent- actually, portions of it stayed with me a long time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 10, 2013, 10:54:17 PM
I read his Russia book.  Some of it was a slog, some of it was decent, none of it bowled me over enough to remember anything more than the vague outlines of the plot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 11, 2013, 05:38:14 AM
Quote from: republic on September 10, 2013, 06:43:40 AM
I was looking through popular Amazon science fiction and I stumbled across Empire (In Her Name Redemption Trilogy) by Michael R. Hicks.  The author offers the first book (Empire) for free so I thought I'd give it a whirl.  Wow...I haven't had a book grab my attention that fast in a very long time. 

According to Kindle, I've read 31% of the book in 2 days.. Which for me is amazing since I read so slow plus I have so little time to read.

It looks like two of the books are free on kindle right now but what is confusing is the order the books are in. It appears that there are three different trilogies based on the In Her Name plot. This page shows them in recommended order:
http://authormichaelhicks.com/books-by-michael-r-hicks/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 11, 2013, 08:42:07 AM
Finished The Gathering Storm on schedule last night, Book 12 of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series, the first of the final trilogy (sort of) and the first book co-authored by Sanderson after RJ's death. (Whew!)

Yep, quite happy with it, although it lacked a bit of polish. I'm not complaining about a lack of detail, which was sufficient and didn't overwhelm the book the way it threatened even in RJ's last pre-mortem book Knife of Dreams (although that was a vast improvement over the previous six declining in quality). But there were times when apparently Sanderson lost track of where characters were in their scenes and so they teleported around a bit; or times when he would repeat terms nearby in close proximity for no artistic reason.

Plotwise dramatic things happen with a good leavening of action on occasion, even though I think overall there might have been less action in this book than in KoD. The final few chapters threatened a lot of tragic action for dramatic effect, since Rand gets so depressed and insane that he nearly [does something spoilery I guess?] before more-or-less randomly fixing himself and going sane. So I don't begrudge a lack of a final action scene since important plot things happen instead (unlike in CoT), and anyway Egwene's side of the plot had been resolved with a nicely flashy climactic action sequence several chapters earlier. The only thing I grudge about the ending was the inclusion of a short chapter where one character learns something we already learned (and had been recently reminded of multiple times), which someone else in the scene already knows about, and which I can't figure out what use that particular character (Min) could even possibly make of it. Probably the scene was set up so someone else in the scene (Nynaeve) will learn it as a side-effect, but why did it have to be there at the end of the novel when nothing happens from it? It isn't like Nyn goes LIGHT YES THAT IS THE SOLUTION I SHALL CERTAINLY DO SOMETHING ABOUT THAT NEXT BOOK SINCE WE'RE AT THE END OF THIS ONE. ;) Possibly the chapter was set up so that Min could feel like she was accomplishing something with her philosophic study, but she gets the answer (which we already knew and had been far more effectively reminded of recently) from someone else anyway. Well, it was a short chapter. And by the way the chapters in TGS (and KoD for that matter) tend to be a lot shorter than in previous books, so the pacing moves along a lot better. I just didn't want this chapter interrupting the final plot dramatics for the book.

I'm spending a lot of effort on that minor complaint because I don't have much else to complain about in this book. :) Well, I did complain a minute ago about the resolution to Rand's ongoing mental difficulties, and while that's very nicely set up, and probably was drawn directly from notes left by RJ, I think it could have been handled a bit better.

THIS COULD COUNT AS A SPOILER I GUESS SO SKIP DOWNWARD

It comes down to LIFE SUCKS AND WE KEEP REPEATING SUCKY LIFES OVER AND OVER SO ANNIHILATE EVERYTHING SCREW YOU GOD and then suddenly bi-polar flipping to OH WAIT NICE THINGS HAPPEN TO AND IF WE CEASE TO EXIST THERE WON'T BE THOSE EITHER OKAY I'LL KEEP AT IT YAY FOR HAPPINESS.

Maybe that seemed weak to RJ and/or Sanderson because there's an extra bit where Rand decides that being reborn gives someone the ability to fix what they did wrong the first time, for which he's verrrry vaguely grateful to the Creator -- which seems even weaker and outright self-contradictory because earlier his whole complaint was that the Pattern keeps forcing people to live their lives over and over again into infinity and nothing gets finally accomplished (for which he was hot to blame God) in a situation where they have to keep winning to get that unsatisfactory result but one loss means the end of everything or maybe worse if the Dark One gets control but doesn't annihilate the world. My point being that the "second chance" rationale makes literally no sense as an answer to that problem. Also, the second chance rationale only really applies to him out of everyone else in the world because he's the only person who remembers doing it wrong the first time.

Well, RJ's metaphysics for his story are kind of half-assed and screwed up anyway, mainly there to provide drama and coloring, so trying to work through them to some satisfying reason to keep on living and save people instead of destroy them would naturally lead to screwy results anyway, so I guess I shouldn't be surprised. But it was clearly supposed to be meaningful as a scene (and superficially was, it's set up great), and wasn't supposed to come off as a bipolar mood swing of a crazy person but as a crazy person being healed back to sanity so he can effectively finish out the story.

Now that I think of it, I have a suspicion that Min was originally intended to be in the scene, since talking Rand out of total annihilation would have given her a clear plot arc in the book: she does serve one much earlier to set Rand off into stone-cold killer mode, and by logic of dramatic balance and her studying of philosophy and metaphysics since back around Book 7 (!!) she should be part of the solution. Moreover, the chapter title itself was "Veins of Gold", which for the last few books has always been a reference to the love Rand feels coming from Elayne, Min and Avi (...it's complicated). She's the one he's keeping near; it was her screw-up that led to this crisis (insisting on being around him all the time when she's a liability in a fight); having her nearby during his philosophical climax would have more directly reminded him of the importance of love and protecting love and DANGIT HE'S NOT DOING HER ANY FAVORS BY ANNIHILATING HER! With her divorced (in a manner of speaking) from the proceedings, his resolution about love becomes much weaker and less personal: at most he vaguely wonders if Ilyena reincarnated, too, somewhere -- but even then he never thinks LIGHT IF I WIPE OUT EVERYTHING I'M KILLING ILYENA AGAIN WHEREVER SHE IS LIKE LAST TIME ONLY WORSE! Which would have tied in much better with the reason he spends much of the book in an emotional shutdown to begin with. (I'm trying to be vague about details for non-spoiler purposes.)

Maybe when the time came, Sanderson just couldn't figure out how to get Rand and Min together in the same room again in some plausible way so they could both go to the top of the mountain and have a stronger climactic scene. But even without her there, it could have been handled better.


END MORE DETAILED SPOILER COMPLAINT

Oh, and that hugely important plot point which Kod's original cover showed finally kicking into gear? It doesn't actually get done in this book either, after increasing teases about it for the past three books at least. I understand why from a plot strategy perspective, since Mat had to be free first to follow that plot point and he wasn't until the very tail end of TGS, but it's still kind of frustrating. (Mat does get to do a few nifty things, so I'm not unhappy about his side of the plot otherwise.) Egwene's side of the plot works up and resolves in a very satisfactory fashion, and that helps strengthen the book. Perrin's more-or-less marking time, along with Elayne elsewhere, since resolving their big plot points in KoD, but Sanderson doesn't spend silly amounts of time and effort describing them and everyone else around them marking time in detail, so yay!  ;D

Altogether, I'd rank TGS slightly higher than KoD, mainly because KoD still had some annoying leftover over-descriptions. Otherwise they're about equally good, but equally good in somewhat different ways. Had the resolution of Rand's madness plot been handled better, and it could have been handled better even without Min being there, I'd regard it as being substantially better than TGS despite having somewhat less action in it.

Ten days from now, I'll report on Towers of Midnight. I have no reason to believe I won't enjoy it, although I happen to know from other readers that The Last Battle doesn't really start until the final book (despite this book heavily indicating it's going to start pretty much any time now). Maybe Book 13 will have more to do with the surviving Forses, since the Forsaken only make a couple of token appearances in TGS.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 11, 2013, 01:23:12 PM
<Skip's Jason's post, going "la-la-la-la, I can't hear you...">




I finished The Book of the Dun Cow this morning.  Truly a terrific read; I'm thinking I need to pick up a copy of it for myself. 

Next up:  Harry Turtledove's Ruled Britannia, a what-if look at England under Spanish rule after the Armada smashed Elizabeth's fleet.  It's been sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time since I last picked it up, and I was suddenly moved to read it again. 

Title: .
Post by: eyebiter on September 11, 2013, 02:05:56 PM
.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 11, 2013, 08:33:04 PM
Quote from: Martok on September 11, 2013, 01:23:12 PM
<Skip's Jason's post, going "la-la-la-la, I can't hear you...">

Oh, yeah, I guess that large middle portion might count as a spoiler even though I left out details of specifically what happens. I've added spoiler warnings now (and tried to reduce the font of that portion to make it easier to skip past.)

On the other hand, had you read the post you could have mocked me for repeatedly referring to The Gathering Storm as TGD.  :o

I am 100% sure the explanation for this is that, as a Christian universalist who is also the student of a famous apologist, C. S. Lewis, who wasn't a universalist but who was himself the student of a famous Christian universalist, George MacDonald, whose views Lewis somewhat reverses to look more like his own in The Great Divorce... {inhalllle!} ...I'm often asked to comment about what happens in TGD, so I have a habit of using that acronym.

Which admittedly counts as being at least slightly insane.




QuoteI finished The Book of the Dun Cow this morning.  Truly a terrific read; I'm thinking I need to pick up a copy of it for myself.

If you get an opportunity to read the sequel, let me know what you think DON'T!  ;D

QuoteNext up:  Harry Turtledove's Ruled Britannia, a what-if look at England under Spanish rule after the Armada smashed Elizabeth's fleet.  It's been sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time since I last picked it up, and I was suddenly moved to read it again.

Huh. That sounds like one of his less... colorful books. The Spanish don't use alien fairies or something like that eventually?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 11, 2013, 09:34:31 PM
Quote from: Martok on September 11, 2013, 01:23:12 PM
<Skip's Jason's post, going "la-la-la-la, I can't hear you...">




I finished The Book of the Dun Cow this morning.  Truly a terrific read; I'm thinking I need to pick up a copy of it for myself. 

Next up:  Harry Turtledove's Ruled Britannia, a what-if look at England under Spanish rule after the Armada smashed Elizabeth's fleet.  It's been sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time since I last picked it up, and I was suddenly moved to read it again.

If that's the book I'm thinking of then you will see Shakespeare in a new light.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 12, 2013, 04:51:35 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on September 11, 2013, 08:33:04 PM
Quote from: Martok on September 11, 2013, 01:23:12 PM
<Skip's Jason's post, going "la-la-la-la, I can't hear you...">

Oh, yeah, I guess that large middle portion might count as a spoiler even though I left out details of specifically what happens. I've added spoiler warnings now (and tried to reduce the font of that portion to make it easier to skip past.)
Oh, no worries.  As soon as I saw you mention The Gathering Storm, I knew to just skip your post.  (Not all of us need to be told "look away"; I am, on occasion, able to use the brains I was born with.)  :) 



Quote from: JasonPratt on September 11, 2013, 08:33:04 PM
QuoteI finished The Book of the Dun Cow this morning.  Truly a terrific read; I'm thinking I need to pick up a copy of it for myself.

If you get an opportunity to read the sequel, let me know what you think DON'T!  ;D
Rest assured, I have no intention of reading the sequel.  I've heard it has a downer ending, which -- realistic though it may be -- is enough to turn me off to it. 



Quote from: JasonPratt on September 11, 2013, 08:33:04 PM
QuoteNext up:  Harry Turtledove's Ruled Britannia, a what-if look at England under Spanish rule after the Armada smashed Elizabeth's fleet.  It's been sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time since I last picked it up, and I was suddenly moved to read it again.

Huh. That sounds like one of his less... colorful books. The Spanish don't use alien fairies or something like that eventually?
Ha, no.  The premise is presented in a reasonably plausible way, as is the course of events during the book itself.  It's actually a very good read, and was the book that turned me onto Turtledove in the first place. 




Quote from: Staggerwing on September 11, 2013, 09:34:31 PM
Quote from: Martok on September 11, 2013, 01:23:12 PM
Next up:  Harry Turtledove's Ruled Britannia, a what-if look at England under Spanish rule after the Armada smashed Elizabeth's fleet.  It's been sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time since I last picked it up, and I was suddenly moved to read it again.

If that's the book I'm thinking of then you will see Shakespeare in a new light.
Well I've already read it twice before (I've owned the book for 7-8 years now), but yes, it did cause me to look at old Billy-boy from a different perspective.  I think Turtledove does a good job of portraying the world in which Shakespeare lived, and how the man himself lived as well --  something I'd always had trouble imagining. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on September 12, 2013, 06:24:47 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on September 11, 2013, 05:38:14 AM
It looks like two of the books are free on kindle right now but what is confusing is the order the books are in. It appears that there are three different trilogies based on the In Her Name plot. This page shows them in recommended order:
http://authormichaelhicks.com/books-by-michael-r-hicks/

I usually prefer to read books in the order the author wrote them.  I have to say "In Her Name: Empire" is so far one of my favorite Science fiction books.  I've started volunteering for night feedings just so I can read for a few minutes. lol
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 23, 2013, 12:05:16 PM
I did in fact finish The Towers of Midnight, book 13 of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series, on schedule back on Friday, but being lazy busy I didn't get around to posting.

Don't worry, Martok, no spoilers this time. ;)

As expected, the story kept up a good pace with plenty of action sprinkled through it and lots of plot points being resolved preparatory to the Last Battle (tm). Which doesn't really start until somewhere in the final book, but that's okay. (Trivia note: when I opened my Kindle edition of Book 14, I saw a huge gap in the chapter bar at the bottom, and wondered if there was a formatting error. Nope, that's the chapter actually called "The Last Battle", and by itself not counting the other Last Battley stuff around it, it runs 22% of the 850ish pages of narrative text.)

Once again the title really has nothing at all to do with the story -- the reference to Towers of Midnight should have been something to do with the Seanchan Empire, but the story is never going there (RJ planned to run an epilogue series afterward which BS has said he probably won't do), so a brief prophetic viewing shows the Towers maybe representing the last remaining Forsaken who don't do a whole lot in the plot. Whatever.

I seriously wondered whether they would spend this next to last book with Mat still having not yet accomplished that Thing He Has Been Prophesied To Do Since Literally Book One And Which RJ and BS Have Been Teasing Us Could Happen Each Book Since Back Around Book Ten -- but BS saves it for the grand finale at the 90% mark. (Readers will know what I'm talking about. It was shown on the cover of Book 11, for no good reason at all.)

One thing I didn't like about the structure of the story was how Perrin and a major minor hero character (who had only been introduced in the past few books although we've heard about him since at least as far back as Book 2) spend literally the first half of the book catching up to the climactic incident of The Gathering Storm; which wouldn't be so bad in itself but everyone else in the plot (including Rand) clearly has moved along to doing other things! This would have bothered me more if it had been more obvious they were plot lagging substantially behind other chapters, but it was still annoying to discover I had been made to jump through temporal plot hoops. I guess those portions of plot had originally been slated for the previous book and then moved forward to keep from overstuffing that one while padding out this one. Fortunately, those chapters are still pretty good. I liked reading them, I just didn't like how they were presented once I realized what was going on. If they absolutely had to be saved for this book, then heck go the distance and just flip back and forth between those two parallel plot threads until they catch up with everyone else, and then start letting us know what Rand and the others are doing.

But these are minor complaints overall. I'm nostalgically excited to see this long-running story finally coming to a close in a suitably epic fashion, and I'll comment later about the final book when I finish it (probably on Sept 29 at this rate).

Meanwhile, because I am insane, my little side project of trimming down the middle sloggy books 6-10 is slowly humming along: I've nicked around 28 thousand words out of the first eight chapters (and prologue) of Lord of Chaos already. Not that anyone other than maybe my Dad and myself will ever be able to (legally) read it, but it's nice to think that ten years from now if I feel like spending another five months plugging through the books I won't have to spend so much time on those five. (Maybe by then I'll even have finished my reduction project!  ;D )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 23, 2013, 08:31:11 PM
I'm about halfway through Ender's Game, and having never read it before, it's pretty awesome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 23, 2013, 09:37:56 PM
the last bit is awesome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 24, 2013, 11:29:39 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on September 23, 2013, 08:31:11 PM
I'm about halfway through Ender's Game, and having never read it before, it's pretty awesome.

Envy isn't quite the word, but, I wish it was me who was only half through Ender's Game for the first time.  *heavy sigh*
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 30, 2013, 08:39:21 PM
On schedule, tonight I finished A Memory of the Light, the 14th (not counting the goofy prologue novel) and final book of Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time.

No, I'm not overly sure what the title was supposed to refer to, but at least there are more plausible candidates than for ToM or KoD or CoT.

A more accurate title for the book would be A Battle of All The Asskicking. Easily 80% of the book amounts to fighting of some sort, which is appropriate -- any Grog who gets this far will appreciate it, although even for my taste it got kind of numbing after a while. But hey, it's The Final Battle (and the Last Hunt, among other things), so all the stops had to be pulled out.

I'll have more comments tomorrow I expect. My short comment is that I'm happy with the book, happy I read the series, sad and nostalgic that the series is over (and for other personal reasons not directly related to the series which I'm not going to talk about), and Martok can proceed with reading the final trilogy secure in another vote for it Being Worth The Effort. :)

Now I'm off to go nostalgially weep or something. ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 01, 2013, 02:42:38 AM
Being in a Star Trek mood, I've begun the first book (Day of the Vipers) in the Terok Nor trilogy, which covers the Cardassian occupation of Bajor.  I've not read the other novels covering Star Trek's "Lost Era" (the period roughly defined as dating from Kirk's death aboard the Enterprise-B until the events in The Next Generation), but I enjoy these. 

Given the significant influence "The Occupation" (as it's generally referred to in-universe) has on two of Trek's most prominent races, I was glad to see it finally get the expanded-universe treatment.  I only wish the series might have been longer. 




Quote from: JasonPratt on September 30, 2013, 08:39:21 PM
and Martok can proceed with reading the final trilogy secure in another vote for it Being Worth The Effort. :)
Thank you, Jason, for that reassurance.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 01, 2013, 06:45:59 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 11, 2013, 01:23:12 PM
Next up:  Harry Turtledove's Ruled Britannia, a what-if look at England under Spanish rule after the Armada smashed Elizabeth's fleet.  It's been sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time since I last picked it up, and I was suddenly moved to read it again.

I can't ever read Harry Turtledove again; he bores the beejeezus out of me. I read his little space-lizard-invading-Earth-during-WWII series, and was constantly expecting something big or interesting to happen. Read all three of the conflict books, and nothing. I started reading the 'Colonization' trilogy, thought 'what the hell am I doing,' and stopped immediately. The best way I can summarize his space lizard operetta is thinking Harry is saying the whole time, "Isn't this COOL? SPACE LIZARDS!"

I've tried - TRIED - to read so many of his series, but they're all the same thing - virtually no interesting characters and a story that's pretty much weaved with the assumption "wouldn't it be cool IF..."

No, Mr. Turtledove. It might be cool IF, but if your characters are cardboard cut-outs, it is NOT cool.

As frosting on the lets-throw-history-at-the-wall-until-something-sticks series, his literary agents are assholes.

Wow, that was therapeutic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 01, 2013, 06:56:22 AM
Uff-da!  Sounds like you feel about Turtledove the same way I feel about George RR Martin and Robin Hobb (which is saying a lot). 


A pity his other stuff ruined him for you, as I suspect you might have actually enjoyed Ruled Britannia (which is a standalone novel, and not part of a series).  As it is, though, it's indeed probably best you stay away.  :-\ 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 01, 2013, 07:42:22 AM
Okay, more thoughts on A Memory of Light now that I've slept on it a bit.

The primary question I guess is whether it was worth the increasing slog of Books 6 through 10. On more sober reflection this morning, I can honestly answer, "No, for me it isn't," and I have trouble believing even another fan will think so either. My main evidence for this is that I'm actually tinkering (pun half-intended) with the insanely huge task of trimming down 6,7,8 and 9,10,11 into two books rather than six (with new book 7 being mostly book 11). I wouldn't do that if I was satisfied with leaving those books in place for a prospective future readthrough some decade.

What good does that do someone who caved early? Well, it depends on when they caved. If you didn't even like the first three books, never mind, the final three books aren't going to be worth it for you (despite the groggy spectacle of a final 900ish page book largely dedicated to militant butt-kicking.) I will say that I thought the final three books bumped the plot along faster than the first three books did, if that helps other readers.

If you swore off after having read Book 10, then you can safely proceed with Book 11 and then the final trilogy: 11 is still a little laggy, but much better than any of the five books before it. If you absolutely need a recap, I'll recommend a resource in a minute.

If like me you swore off after having heard about Book 10, I can't say I recommend the doldrum of reading 10 before moving on. But the resource will help with that.

It comes down to whether you were reasonably entertained up to/through book 5, or sometime later in the slog. If so, the best advice I can give (until TOR recognizes my genius and throws money at printing the two-book compilation of books 6-11 ;) ) is to read Leigh Butler's WOT recap posts.


Leigh's whole series can be found here for free (http://www.tor.com/features/series/wot-reread) at TOR's site; TOR has also compiled her entries together (minus the comments from other readers no doubt) into a set of ebooks (or print books?) if you absolutely must pay someone a little more money for the convenience of having them all together in one place. (http://www.tor.com/blogs/2013/03/the-wheel-of-time-reread-collected-ebooks-have-arrived) (She hasn't actually finished AMOL yet, and doesn't seem likely to do so before the end of the year at the rate she's going, but that's irrelevant for our purposes.) I'm thinking of getting Vols 2,3 and 4 for my Dad so he can burn along better on his own readthrough with minimal bother.

She does however tend to spoil the plot a bit up through when she herself quit (after reading Knife of Dreams), so reader beware: she not only summarizes each chapter but provides (often snarky) commentary on them. And I don't know whether she and/or TOR has edited the ebook versions of her summary/commentaries to remove spoilers about books she previously read but hasn't gotten to yet in the re-read. For example, what's up with Verin? A big plot mystery dating back at least as far as Book 2, maybe Book 1, and Leigh accidentally spoils it early in her commentaries.


More actual thoughts on the final book later, as I have some other things to be doing this morning. But I thought I ought to give people some advice on a viable option (fully supported by TOR themselves) to get through to the final "good parts" in a reasonably short and entertaining fashion. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on October 01, 2013, 08:31:43 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcache0.bdcdn.net%2Fassets%2Fimages%2Fbook%2Fmedium%2F9781%2F8441%2F9781844168699.jpg&hash=103581fb43b227932b07a1eb6974efc9ae9e54f3)

This is the 13th book in the Horus Heresy series.   I'm about halfway through.  This one started a bit slow but events are starting to unfold rapidly.   I am determined to finish the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 01, 2013, 10:22:20 AM
Thanks for your additional comments, Jason

Sounds like the last three books are definitely must-reads for me.  Not that I had much doubt -- they'd already been generally well-received by the fan-base, plus I already knew Sanderson to be a capable writer -- but I always find feedback from people I know to be invaluable (especially when it comes to books). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 01, 2013, 07:24:56 PM
Banzai Cat is so obtuse sometimes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 01, 2013, 07:46:35 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 01, 2013, 07:24:56 PM
Banzai Cat is so obtuse sometimes.

?

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 01, 2013, 08:54:14 PM
Sarcasm. You were clearly not obtuse in your above post.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on October 01, 2013, 09:18:02 PM
Something Wicked This Way Comes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dolan50 on October 01, 2013, 10:21:51 PM
I was looking for some books to read on the history of the Roman Empire and came across this site-
http://oll.libertyfund.org/index.php?option=com_staticxt&Itemid=27&a=h

Lots of good reads here on a variety of subjects that I thought some here may find interesting and enjoyable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 02, 2013, 05:36:43 AM
Quote from: Gusington on October 01, 2013, 08:54:14 PM
Sarcasm. You were clearly not obtuse in your above post.

I thought more isosceles, but my wife uses that obtuse word sometimes. ;)

Right now I'm reading lube and engine oil specifications, because work. Not nearly as interesting as Ender's Game unfortunately.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 02, 2013, 07:36:11 AM
Thanks for the above link Dolan.

And nice hypotenuse Banzai Cat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 02, 2013, 07:40:41 AM
Right angle back atcha.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 02, 2013, 08:35:06 AM
I was thinking about writing up some niggling complaints about AMoL, but then I realized I couldn't do so without a lot of spoilage about how the story ends and who lives and who dies. (A lot of minor and major-minor characters die, btw, along with at least one outright major one -- and I'm not talking about Rand.)

So instead I'll just move along to finally finishing up some books I started late last year or early this year but had to put on hold while working through WoT. :)

First up: Sasquatch: Legend Meets Science (http://www.amazon.com/Sasquatch-Legend-Meets-Science-ebook/dp/B003JH8MBA), which though slightly out of date (only goes up to 2007) pulls together a lot of scientific analysis on footprint and other data, and research into various hoax claims. (Turns out that the more classic claims of hoax don't logically add up as being able to reproduce the evidence, or anywhere even near it.) The book explains why a significant number of primate scientists from different fields have quietly come to regard North America, and probably other areas of the globe, to have been and still be the home of an unknown hominid. I'm about halfway through, and I'm impressed at the detail. (Details largely omitted or mocked away with what amounts to wish fulfillment by the more recent Abominable Science! (http://www.amazon.com/Abominable-Science-Origins-Nessie-Cryptids/dp/0231153201) by Loxton, Prothero and Shermer; but I'll put up a link to that, too, for anyone wanting to compare approaches. :) )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 06, 2013, 09:47:23 AM
Martok, glad to see I have a partner in dislike for Robin Hobb.  I read her Assassin trilogy and have never been more disappointed in a series than that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 06, 2013, 09:54:50 AM
I felt the same about the 'Liveship Traders' series. It was hard work to finish 'em .
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 06, 2013, 10:55:47 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 06, 2013, 09:47:23 AM
Martok, glad to see I have a partner in dislike for Robin Hobb.
I too am relieved to see there's at least a few of us here who feel that way.  Talk about an author who has interesting concepts/storylines, but then completely falls flat on their execution... 



Quote from: MetalDog on October 06, 2013, 09:47:23 AM
I read her Assassin trilogy and have never been more disappointed in a series than that.
That was my introduction to her writing as well.  I forced myself to read the entire (first) trilogy, as a good friend of mine (whose taste in books *generally* coincides with my own) said he just loved it, so I held on, waiting for it to get better.  Boy was that a mistake.  :( 




Quote from: bob48 on October 06, 2013, 09:54:50 AM
I felt the same about the 'Liveship Traders' series. It was hard work to finish 'em .
I believe it.  After finishing the Assassins trilogy, I actually began reading the first Liveship Traders' novel as well.  Finally, after about 150 pages -- it took me that long to realize it was going to be more of the same s**t as before -- I went, "WTF am I doing??!" and put it down.  I've never regretted that decision. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on October 07, 2013, 06:08:03 PM
Quote from: Martok on October 06, 2013, 10:55:47 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 06, 2013, 09:47:23 AM
Martok, glad to see I have a partner in dislike for Robin Hobb.
I too am relieved to see there's at least a few of us here who feel that way.  Talk about an author who has interesting concepts/storylines, but then completely falls flat on their execution... 



Quote from: MetalDog on October 06, 2013, 09:47:23 AM
I read her Assassin trilogy and have never been more disappointed in a series than that.
That was my introduction to her writing as well.  I forced myself to read the entire (first) trilogy, as a good friend of mine (whose taste in books *generally* coincides with my own) said he just loved it, so I held on, waiting for it to get better.  Boy was that a mistake.  :( 




Quote from: bob48 on October 06, 2013, 09:54:50 AM
I felt the same about the 'Liveship Traders' series. It was hard work to finish 'em .
I believe it.  After finishing the Assassins trilogy, I actually began reading the first Liveship Traders' novel as well.  Finally, after about 150 pages -- it took me that long to realize it was going to be more of the same s**t as before -- I went, "WTF am I doing??!" and put it down.  I've never regretted that decision.

Her Soldier's Son trilogy is actually rather good. It's set in a more Victorian style world and the main character is really put through the ringer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 08, 2013, 08:24:50 AM
That seems to be true for most of her main characters, though (being put through the ringer).  The problem -- at least for me -- is that her characters just aren't likable. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 08, 2013, 03:31:16 PM
Finished the 2007 book on Sasquatch science (http://www.amazon.com/Sasquatch-Legend-Meets-Science-ebook/dp/B003JH8MBA)... whew! I'm far from stupid, but a lot of the technical discussion on how bones and muscles and things fit together went waaaay over my head. That'll have to be debated by experts on forensic reconstruction (among other scientists). Still it shows that the state of the evidence is such that it can be discussed and debated at that level.

I also finished the last part of Gibson's The Perfect War: Technowar In Vietnam (http://www.amazon.com/Perfect-War-Technowar-Vietnam-Military/dp/0871137992), a book I actually started last November. (But remember I was busy reading a bunch of other books most of this year.)

Super-interesting analysis of Vietnam at many levels, but I stand by my criticism that the author (for whatever reason, possibly righteous dudgeon combined with competitiveness) failed to understand the actual thrust of Gelb and Betts' The Irony of Vietnam: The System Worked (http://www.amazon.com/Irony-Vietnam-System-Worked/dp/0815730713). Gibson thought the book was intended to be another exculpation of failure as some kind of inscrutable mystery where good men just didn't try hard enough at a mechanistic application of commercialized war 'production'; in actuality, G&B's main thesis was to appeal to public records and other primary data to test the popular notion at the time of their study that civilian policymakers had foisted an unwanted war on the American people without their consent while ignoring military advice that could have won the war. G&B find both popular notions running up against the actual primary data: the policymakers listened to military advice, and routinely implemented as much of it as they thought popular opinion of US citizens wanted (even if not always as much as the leading generals wanted.) G&B's thesis runs nicely complementary to Gibson's, not antithetical to it. Maybe Gibson scanned a few pages quickly toward the end and from a few apparently 'telling' phrases decided paragraphs written (in context) to critique policy were trying to defend and promote it. Who knows?

Anyway, I heartily recommend both books, although TWar is much more in-depth (since Gibson's scope of thesis is much broader). One of G's more provocative conclusions, reached early in his book (and which I talked about in another thread a year ago), is that since WW2 American industry has run on what effectively amounts to a wartime economy, which brought us so many short-term benefits once WW2 was over that we've become institutionally addicted to it and now find it impossible to let go, which will eventually ruin our economy. (This book was originally written back in the mid to late 80s.) As I analogized it last year, we gave the American economy a nitrous boost to gun ourselves up during WW2, but never took off the nitro, and the long-term result is that our engine is going to explode. Or, putting the analogy another way, we got over a tragedy or medical difficulty in our life by drinking tequilas every day for a while, but then when the chronic hangovers happened we solved them by drinking another tequila. In the long term that ends only one way.

There's much, MUCH more to G's book than that, however.


This interview from a public access cable channel back during the book's initial release summarizes the points pretty well in an hour and 45 minutes:




Edited to remove the other two YT links, as it's really the same interview in two parts but with excerpts from the interview as a lead-in for an extra four minutes or thereabouts. So the links were redundant after all. Sorry. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Keunert on October 08, 2013, 04:43:50 PM
i am not far from stupid, i speak it fluently and have some friends and familY there too. nice place to be
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 08, 2013, 09:47:19 PM
Quote from: Martok on October 08, 2013, 08:24:50 AM
That seems to be true for most of her main characters, though (being put through the ringer).  The problem -- at least for me -- is that her characters just aren't likable.

I just always thought she hated her characters.  She didn't try all that hard to make me care about them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 09, 2013, 03:19:20 AM
Incidentally, I finished Day of the Vipers yesterday (and have since begun Night of the Wolves, the second book in the Terok Nor trilogy). 

While obviously the trilogy is serious in tone overall, it does include moments of humor...including one flat-out "LOL" scene in the first book that's an homage to Star Wars:  A Bajoran pilot quotes almost verbatim Han Solo's line from A New Hope, "We're fine.  We're all fine here now, thank you...  How are you?"  Despite the fact that everything's starting to go to hell at this point in the book, I still cracked up.  :D 




Quote from: MetalDog on October 08, 2013, 09:47:19 PM
Quote from: Martok on October 08, 2013, 08:24:50 AM
That seems to be true for most of her main characters, though (being put through the ringer).  The problem -- at least for me -- is that her characters just aren't likable.

I just always thought she hated her characters.  She didn't try at all to make me care about them.
Fixed that for you.  ::)  Yeah, I agree, though. 

I think I've said it before, but I'll repeat it:  I suspect Hobb was trying to make her characters more relate-able and/or "real" by giving them obvious character flaws.  The problem is she *way* overshot the mark. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mrs Darwin on October 15, 2013, 02:48:05 PM
I just finished the complete unabridged works of Nora Roberts, and now I'm on to....okay, just kidding.  Actually, I had to Google "bestselling romance authors" because I couldn't even think of the name of a trashy chick book author.  Yes, that was probably horribly sexist. 
 
Anyhow, I'm slugging my way through a book on social media marketing, and just finished Jonathan Safran Foer's Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 15, 2013, 02:52:14 PM
I've just started yet another Kindle Freebie - 'The Thirty Years War' by  Schiller.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 15, 2013, 02:53:38 PM
Sexist is a prerequisite for most of the guys on this forum. I think you'll get along fine.

I used to work in a Waldenbooks, then a BookStop, years ago - trashy romance novel readers tended to buy thirty of them at a time and burn through them in a week. How do you even tell the difference between the covers? They all look the same, with half-naked people struggling to burst out of trashy Halloween pirate costumes.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 16, 2013, 07:30:56 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on October 15, 2013, 02:53:38 PM
Sexist is a prerequisite for most of the guys on this forum. I think you'll get along fine.

She's Mrs. Cap'n Darwin, so she's allowed to be horribly sexist if she wants. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 16, 2013, 07:38:23 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on October 16, 2013, 07:30:56 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on October 15, 2013, 02:53:38 PM
Sexist is a prerequisite for most of the guys on this forum. I think you'll get along fine.

She's Mrs. Cap'n Darwin, so she's allowed to be horribly sexist if she wants. :)

it feels like a kid, when youre round at your friends house and their parents come home - you have to take your feet off the sofa, stop swearing and sit politely without being rude
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 16, 2013, 07:43:30 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F25.media.tumblr.com%2Ftumblr_lhcypl03jm1qgcvg9o1_r1_400.gif&hash=c77c078ca8c48858735479107adfb3cd7e244a2c)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2013, 07:46:00 AM
Hahaha!

I am reading The Demonologist right now, the author's name escapes me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 16, 2013, 07:50:51 AM
^ Gerard Brittle. About Ed and Lorraine Warren. I have that in my Kindle but goodness knows when I'll get to it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2013, 10:28:01 AM
No, I'm reading The Demonologist by Andrew Pyper. As far as the Warrens are (were)  concerned, they always smelled like major frauds to me. And I want to believe!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on October 16, 2013, 10:55:26 AM
The farmers almanac.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 16, 2013, 10:56:03 AM
There's a reeeeeallly fine line when it comes to "psychics." Most are absolute frauds. Then there's the frauds who have major networks behind them (e.g., the so-called Long Island Medium, who is the topper of all of them as far as I'm concerned).

A lot of that is fed by dummies that WANT so much to believe they can talk to their long-lost loved ones, and as long as they exist, there will be no shortage of Long Island Mediums, unfortunately.

As far as the Warrens are concerned, it's not so much their self-professed connectivity to the netherworlds that intrigues me; it's how they, in particular, got to where they were in the first place. For those that present themselves as relatively respectable 'investigators,' I'll give them the benefit of the doubt; those with annoying Jersey accents, not so much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 16, 2013, 11:52:26 AM
Am about to begin Dawn of the Eagles, the third book in the Terok Nor trilogy.  I'm pleasantly surprised to discover that at least thus far, the series is about as good as I remember it to be. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 16, 2013, 03:22:26 PM
The Disaster Artist by Greg Sestero. He played the role of Mark in The Room. It's a fascinating history about how he came to know Tommy Wiseau, and the making of The Room. Based on what I've read so far, I'm amazed that The Room turned out as well as it did...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2013, 06:25:34 PM
So Banzai I can't figure it out from your last post...are you a fan of the Warrens?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 16, 2013, 07:05:57 PM
I wouldn't say fan, but I'm interested in learning more about them.

I hate to admit it, as most have strong opinions on this sort of thing, but I worked with a ghost-hunting group about 12-13 years ago, Lone Star Spirits. Might find them in a Google search, but it's been so long I don't know if they're still around or not.

I only went on a few investigations. It started because I did a project on 'ghost hunting' for a class in college back in 2000 or so. I chose the subject because it was somewhat interesting and different from usual presentations. This Lone Star Spirits group helped me out a lot with information (equipment, methodology, etc.) and I went on a few investigations with them, then again a few times after the class was over. However, I didn't stick with it because (a) it freaked me the hell out on more than a couple of occasions, and (b) I really didn't want to take the chance of taking something home with me. My son was a toddler at the time and my daughter a newborn and, well, after a few minor incidents I decided that was enough for me.

So IMO, I think there's some weird things that can be explained by science, and some things that cannot. Most of these investigations, nothing happens; sometimes you'll get an EMP spike or a cool spot but nothing that will make you pee your pants or anything. Then there's a few moments of terror that will get you good, like feeling like you're being watched by something that absolutely hates your guts, or having your ear tapped, or hearing your name being whispered when nobody else was around. Could have been my imagination working overtime in each instance, but all of that still gives me a little shiver when I think about it. I had enough.

In any case, I'm not a hardcore ghost enthusiast, but I'd like to think I've experienced enough to think yep, there's something amazingly weird and creepy in the world, and no thank you, I don't want to purposefully put myself in a situation like that again.

Most 'psychics' are frauds, especially if they're out to make money doing these things. My wife enjoys watching Long Island Medium, and that lady on the show is just like sandpaper on my skin; I can't stand the woman.

Sorry for the long explanation, but thought you might to know where I'm coming from on this. I'm aware most things can be hoaxes or have rational explanations. I'm not all that familiar with the Warrens - I'd heard of them and know some people back in the day that respected their work - so I got the book a while ago hoping to learn a little more about them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2013, 07:57:43 PM
Holy sh*t...that is fantastic.

If you are comfortable PMing I would love to hear more. I consider myself a pretty hardcore "ghost enthusiast." Part of my plan is to one day write the world's most frightening ghost story. I am sort of in your boat...I want to believe but I don't want to have my face eaten by an invisible demon.

PM me with details...I am intrigued!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dolan50 on October 18, 2013, 09:37:06 PM
Just watched a horror movie at my sisters house today that featured the warrens.
I came in at the last half of the movie and don't recall the name of it though.
Never been much of a horror fan except for maybe Stephen King in High School.
The only horror novel I really enjoyed was Floating Dragon by Peter Straub.
Would like to see that novel turned into a movie some day.

I read mostly and don't watch movies or TV much.
Tonight I started reading Gordon C. Rheas' The Battle for the Wilderness.
He wrote 4 books that I own about the battles that took place in Virginia during Grants 1864 campaigns ending with Cold Harbor,I'm not sure if He wrote anymore though.He is probably my favorite CW author,though Peter Cozzens writes some decent CW books also.
It's been awhile since I bought any books on the American Civil War and I still have over a hundred that I haven't really read yet since I went on a Amazon book buying spree about 5 years ago.
I'm hoping after reading these 4 books back to back that I may rekindle my interest in reading the rest of the CW books in my collection and maybe even start playing some of the CW board games I own but never played.

Hopefully,with all the holidays coming up I can find time to do a little of both.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 18, 2013, 09:52:21 PM
BC,

Back in college I was getting a broadcast communications degree, and while I was home for the summer I interned at the largest local TV station. I was just the guy who helped drag around the equipment (especially the portable battery packs) and set up the lights etc., nothing important. But one day while we were riding in the news van somewhere to get reel for a story, we passed a rather nondescript but abandoned little single story house, and the producer on the shoot started telling us how she had gone there a few years ago to do a ghost story report for, y'know, public interest color. I can't recall exactly what she said about the details, though I get the impression she and the exec back at the station decided not to run the story, but she was REAAAALY disturbed by things that happened and things she saw (including a dark face with glowing eyes) and heard about in that house. I could smell the fear coming off her, and feel her temperature change there in the car -- not an experience I think I've ever had before or since. I'm sure she wasn't faking it just to entertain herself, though what actually happened there who knows?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 20, 2013, 01:25:49 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on October 15, 2013, 02:53:38 PM
Sexist is a prerequisite for most of the guys on this forum. I think you'll get along fine.

I used to work in a Waldenbooks, then a BookStop, years ago - trashy romance novel readers tended to buy thirty of them at a time and burn through them in a week. How do you even tell the difference between the covers? They all look the same, with half-naked people struggling to burst out of trashy Halloween pirate costumes.

I worked there, too! 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 20, 2013, 01:57:01 PM
My ex-wife was a manager for a Waldenbooks from late 80s to early 90's.  :o


Quote from: Banzai_Cat on October 15, 2013, 02:53:38 PM
They all look the same, with half-naked people struggling to burst out of trashy Halloween pirate costumes.

You probably know that most of the guys in the cover paintings were based on this guy:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fabio_Lanzoni

QuoteFabio Lanzoni (Italian pronunciation: [ˈfaːbjo lanˈtsoːni]); born March 15, 1959),widely known simply as Fabio, is an Italian fashion model, spokesperson, and actor, who appeared on the covers of hundreds of romance novels throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

I decided against posting a picture of him in full bodice-ripper-cover glory in case it attracted certain 'undesirable elements'...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 20, 2013, 02:07:35 PM
or Azz as we call him
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 20, 2013, 06:44:29 PM
Full disclosure: at my first job out of school I answered Fabio's fan mail, as Fabio. For a year. I am not joking.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 20, 2013, 06:52:07 PM
So that's where your hair went! You really didn't have to put a lock of it in every response envelope just to promote the veracity of your replies.




(J/K  :D)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 20, 2013, 07:35:43 PM
^I wish.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 21, 2013, 04:08:17 AM
Quote from: Gusington on October 20, 2013, 06:44:29 PM
Full disclosure: at my first job out of school I answered Fabio's fan mail, as Fabio. For a year. I am not joking.

my God I love this forum!

as an aside, this confirms that we've spoken before we met on the internet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 21, 2013, 10:16:18 AM
Quote from: Gusington on October 20, 2013, 06:44:29 PM
Full disclosure: at my first job out of school I answered Fabio's fan mail, as Fabio. For a year. I am not joking.
Gus, you just made my day.  Props for sharing that little tidbit.  :D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 21, 2013, 12:37:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 20, 2013, 06:44:29 PM
Full disclosure: at my first job out of school I answered Fabio's fan mail, as Fabio. For a year. I am not joking.

TIL that Gus is more awesome than I ever imagined.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on October 21, 2013, 03:49:58 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 20, 2013, 06:44:29 PM
Full disclosure: at my first job out of school I answered Fabio's fan mail, as Fabio. For a year. I am not joking.

How in the Hell did you end up with that job?!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 21, 2013, 04:19:16 PM
are you really sure you want the answer?   :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 21, 2013, 07:37:21 PM
Bad luck! But in exchange for Fabio duty I got to sleep with my best friend's boss. For six months he was tortured more than he would have been ordinarily by hearing her sing my praises. It was awesome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 21, 2013, 09:22:30 PM
Nothing like sticking it to your best friend...through his boss ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 21, 2013, 09:59:03 PM
Yeah it was great :) Ah to be 22 again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 21, 2013, 11:57:42 PM
well... pretty soon if you act half your age you can be!  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 22, 2013, 11:01:57 AM
Quote from: Gusington on October 21, 2013, 07:37:21 PM
Bad luck! But in exchange for Fabio duty I got to sleep with my best friend's boss. For six months he was tortured more than he would have been ordinarily by hearing her sing my praises. It was awesome.
Most excellent.  I knew there was a reason I looked up to you.  8) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 22, 2013, 11:23:56 AM
Quote from: Martok on October 22, 2013, 11:01:57 AMI knew there was a reason I looked up to you.  8)

I thought it was because youre shorter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 22, 2013, 11:37:53 AM
Only in dog-years. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 22, 2013, 12:12:25 PM
 :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 22, 2013, 12:17:15 PM
In honor of Gus I have updated my bloated sig line.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ficon_respect.gif&hash=070c3dc2a0eec2332e1f84b19e0c59df64248f5b)


...not that I honored him enough to remove my pandering self-promotion, of course. Those nice buffalo-skin hardbacks with shiny dust-jackets don't sell themselves! (Or at all, really... ;) )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 22, 2013, 01:48:47 PM
Wow. Well it's only right for a published author to help out a little guy. Pun intended.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mrs Darwin on October 24, 2013, 05:31:30 PM
At the risk of going totally off-topic, I finished whatever books I'd previously been reading, and am now just about through with  the Greg Mortenson saga Three Cups of Tea.  Fascinating stuff.  Almost makes me want to pack a bag, and go off to do noble works for the good of all.  Okay, not really.  Does make me want to be a great humanitarian, though.  Or at least play one on TV.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 24, 2013, 07:23:51 PM
Almost finished with Dawn of the Eagles.  That should settle my Star Trek craving for a little while.  :) 


Next up:  The entries from The Case Book of Sherlock Holmes.  To my pleasant surprise, I discovered a couple days ago I had not yet finished "The Complete Works of..." omnibus edition.  Bonus! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 24, 2013, 07:56:31 PM
Im reading Bawb's diary.

this guy is such a slut!!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 25, 2013, 08:12:12 AM
Bawb needed the money.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 25, 2013, 08:36:10 AM
Having finished "fun" reading for the next few years ;) , I'm back to "work" reading, so y'all probably won't hear much of me in this thread for a while. :(

(By "work" I mean things like Prof. Ilaria Ramelli's recently released 850 page supplement to Vigiliae Christianae, The Christian Doctrine of Apokatastasis, assessing five or six hundred years worth of patristic documents on the topic. Which is what I'm chugging through now at 85ish pages a day. I'm halfway through.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 25, 2013, 10:05:04 AM
wait til you get to the 'Pease Pudding Wrestling' chapter

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 25, 2013, 10:19:03 AM
Ha you are a fruity nut bar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 25, 2013, 01:45:17 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 25, 2013, 10:05:04 AM
wait til you get to the 'Pease Pudding Wrestling' chapter

The illustrated version is strictly limited and will cost you a small fortune!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 25, 2013, 03:19:12 PM
Quote from: bob48 on October 25, 2013, 01:45:17 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 25, 2013, 10:05:04 AM
wait til you get to the 'Pease Pudding Wrestling' chapter

The illustrated version is strictly limited and will cost you a small fortune!

only for the 'nekkid geordie covered in pudding' enthusiast eh?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 25, 2013, 03:22:52 PM
...don't knock it until you've tried it..........
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 26, 2013, 08:58:25 PM
Quote from: bob48 on October 25, 2013, 01:45:17 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 25, 2013, 10:05:04 AM
wait til you get to the 'Pease Pudding Wrestling' chapter

The illustrated version is strictly limited and will cost you a small fortune!

Keeping in mind, the non-illustrated version already costs north of $350...!  ;)

(Not joking about the actual cost, thus why it's so funny for me to read that.  :o ;D )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 27, 2013, 06:44:43 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on October 26, 2013, 08:58:25 PM
Quote from: bob48 on October 25, 2013, 01:45:17 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 25, 2013, 10:05:04 AM
wait til you get to the 'Pease Pudding Wrestling' chapter

The illustrated version is strictly limited and will cost you a small fortune!

Keeping in mind, the non-illustrated version already costs north of $350...!  ;)

(Not joking about the actual cost, thus why it's so funny for me to read that.  :o ;D )

lol - what mind altering drugs have you taken this morning Jason

what costs £350??
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 27, 2013, 07:11:37 AM
$350 Geek not £££, and I suspect Jason is referring to a copy of his own book, and nothing as tasteless sublime as geordies and pease pudding.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 27, 2013, 11:46:39 AM
Indeed, it's one of those tomes NEVER MEANT FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC BUT ONLY FOR SAD ELITE SCHOLARS WITH NO LIVES THE TIME AND TALENT CAPABLE OF UNDERSTANDING! And also for university libraries.  :D

That book cost me ten good videogames not on sale. But an argument could be made that +$350 of pease pudding would be more immediately useful. :)

(Reference research titles of this size are regularly priced super-high due to low demand and high production costs. It's normal enough in academia, and a main reason why university libraries exist. Unfortunately, where I live, I have to build my own collection of reference materials for writing papers and other ultra-geeky tasks, although the internet helps a lot nowadays.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mrs Darwin on October 29, 2013, 05:41:49 PM
Finished whatever frothy romance I'd been reading, and read Fundraising Habits of Supremely Successful Boards on Saturday while the kiddos were at an event at the library, and have since started The Woman Who Fell from the Sky, which is about an American female journalist working in Yemen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on October 29, 2013, 05:49:18 PM
Quote from: Mrs Darwin on October 29, 2013, 05:41:49 PM
Finished whatever frothy romance I'd been reading, and read Fundraising Habits of Supremely Successful Boards on Saturday while the kiddos were at an event at the library, and have since started The Woman Who Fell from the Sky, which is about an American female journalist working in Yemen.

frothy???   ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 29, 2013, 06:06:45 PM
tell us more....

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mmaplayground.com%2Fforums%2Fi%2Fpi%2F667125_1.gif&hash=5560f360b031791c482cdb1cb1477eceedb1c8ed)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mrs Darwin on October 29, 2013, 06:40:06 PM
1.  I was kidding.  Being ironic.  Facetious.  I tried to read a trashy romance novel once.  I actually made it halfway through, but then became bored.
 
2.  You guys really need to get out more.
 
:-* :-*
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 29, 2013, 07:02:39 PM
I cant stop laughing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 29, 2013, 08:00:02 PM
Tell me about this 'getting out more.'
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft3.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcRzVXm-S0uzRMaLH9vL29ovwV4sMwIyjx2MCH18ukRANTfiYGWdlA&hash=6fa12bedfb3e0dbb9ec3cc42e33f4ca63beff4af)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 30, 2013, 08:45:20 AM
I'm confused about this "out" of which she speaks...  ??? Can we start there before moving on to whatever "getting" "out" would mean?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 30, 2013, 09:40:43 AM
I dunno...
when someone says I need to 'get out' im often confused as to where.
sometimes I need to get out of Poland. 
sometimes I need to get out of Paris.
sometimes I really really really need to get out of Moscow.
other times I need to get out the nukes.
when I was younger I'd get out the dice.
is this what shes talking about?
woominz talk just confuses me.   ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mrs Darwin on October 31, 2013, 07:30:15 PM
Y'all are silly.   ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on November 01, 2013, 04:37:03 AM
Quote from: Mrs Darwin on October 31, 2013, 07:30:15 PM
Y'all are silly.   ;D

He's flirting..... you get used to it
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 01, 2013, 10:08:55 AM
I am not!  How dare you minimize  the Star, Mirth and Gus triangle shall not be minimuzed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on November 01, 2013, 11:55:42 AM
I just finished Ender's Game. I can't believe that I somehow missed reading this before now. Anyway, I am psyched for the movie!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 01, 2013, 12:07:00 PM
Can you see why the movie has a great chance of following the book to the letter?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 01, 2013, 12:36:20 PM
Quote from: Mrs Darwin on October 31, 2013, 07:30:15 PM
Y'all are silly.   ;D
Guilty as charged!  But then if you've been reading over your husband's shoulder for any length of time on this site, I'm pretty sure you already knew that.  :P 




Quote from: Shelldrake on November 01, 2013, 11:55:42 AM
I just finished Ender's Game. I can't believe that I somehow missed reading this before now. Anyway, I am psyched for the movie!
Glad you liked it!  I've been debating whether I want to reread it myself before the movie comes out, although right now I'm thinking I'll hold off until after. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 01, 2013, 12:43:06 PM
I read Ender's Game when I was about 12 and don't remember it at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on November 01, 2013, 02:01:40 PM
...how d'you know you read it then? ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 02, 2013, 09:54:01 AM
I'm thinking about digging my copy out and reading it again before I go tomorrow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 02, 2013, 07:09:22 PM
Good question Bawb. I remember picking it up at Waldenbooks. But I remember nothing about the story.

I am just about to begin Last Days by Adam Neville. He is one of my favorite up and coming authors and is allegedly the British equivalent of Stephen King.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on November 08, 2013, 09:30:24 AM
Finished The Good Soldiers, by David Finkel.  This is one of the best books I've ever read about the Iraq Conflict.  http://www.amazon.com/Good-Soldiers-David-Finkel-ebook/dp/B00305CYH4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383920901&sr=8-1&keywords=the+good+soldiers

Just started rereading Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 08, 2013, 12:18:01 PM
I've wanted to read Frankenstein forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 08, 2013, 12:25:48 PM
I just started reading Ender's Game. It must be an enjoyable book--I'm nearly halfway through it already.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on November 08, 2013, 12:42:53 PM
Quote from: Gusington on November 08, 2013, 12:18:01 PM
I've wanted to read Frankenstein forever.

You've never read it?  Oh my!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 08, 2013, 12:45:06 PM
lets tell him how it ends.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 08, 2013, 12:49:01 PM
 ;D

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 08, 2013, 01:50:46 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on November 08, 2013, 12:45:06 PM
lets tell him how it ends.

Rocks fall, everyone dies.

Sort of.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 08, 2013, 03:08:55 PM
Am  currently in the middle of my annual (semi-annual? I've kinda lost track) rereading of Fool by Christopher Moore.  Only he could turn Shakespeare's King Lear into a bawdy comedy.  ;D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 08, 2013, 03:56:48 PM
I do enjoy saying the name like 'Fraunenschtein'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on November 10, 2013, 10:25:49 PM
Catilina's Riddle: A Novel of Ancient Rome, Steven Saylor

Gordianus the Finder is one of my favorite characters.  I've said it before but he's like the Sherlock Holmes of Ancient Rome.  Good easy reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 11, 2013, 11:17:26 AM
Yesterday I began reading Six Frigates: The Epic History of the Founding of the U.S. Navy (http://store.ussconstitutionmuseum.org/products/six-frigates-the-epic-history-of-the-founding-of-the-u-s-navy-by-ian-w-toll) by Ian W. Toll. I find it very enlightening.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 11, 2013, 12:50:22 PM
^ooh I've been looking to pick that up, post your impressions. I have Toll's Pacific Crucible which I will read at some point over the winter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 12, 2013, 10:47:50 AM
Am rereading another Turtledove novel, In the Presence of Mine Enemies.  It requires a somewhat greater suspension of disbelief than others of his books, but still enjoyable. 




Quote from: Bison on November 10, 2013, 10:25:49 PM
Catilina's Riddle: A Novel of Ancient Rome, Steven Saylor

Gordianus the Finder is one of my favorite characters.  I've said it before but he's like the Sherlock Holmes of Ancient Rome.  Good easy reading.
Yeah, I remember you mentioning him before.  Is there any particular book in the series you'd recommend to a newcomer? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on November 13, 2013, 05:25:24 AM
Quote from: Martok on November 12, 2013, 10:47:50 AM
Am rereading another Turtledove novel, In the Presence of Mine Enemies.  It requires a somewhat greater suspension of disbelief than others of his books, but still enjoyable. 




Quote from: Bison on November 10, 2013, 10:25:49 PM
Catilina's Riddle: A Novel of Ancient Rome, Steven Saylor

Gordianus the Finder is one of my favorite characters.  I've said it before but he's like the Sherlock Holmes of Ancient Rome.  Good easy reading.
Yeah, I remember you mentioning him before.  Is there any particular book in the series you'd recommend to a newcomer?


Roman Blood is this first book in the Roma Sub Rosa series. 

http://www.amazon.com/Roman-Blood-Gordianus-Finder-1-ebook/dp/B003J5652U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1384338290&sr=8-1&keywords=ROMAN+BLOOD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 13, 2013, 10:03:51 AM
Thanks Bison

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 20, 2013, 09:25:51 PM
About to start "In the Shadow of Empires: The Historic Vlad Dracula, the Events that He Shaped and the Events that Shaped Him" by someone named Sir Jens.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on November 21, 2013, 01:14:47 AM
Here is a great visual for how absolutely ruthless George R.R.Martin is. Every bookmark is a death in his series.  ;D

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi0.wp.com%2Fwww.geeksaresexy.net%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F11%2Fgot-death.jpg%3Fresize%3D625%252C354&hash=65d6ff82c1b6a7a57e121be8585541e808dbaeaa)


(although it could be argued that this season of Sons of Anarchy is even bloodier)  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 21, 2013, 01:35:43 AM
There are billions killed every time she swallows.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 21, 2013, 06:42:40 AM
Quote from: Steelgrave on November 21, 2013, 01:14:47 AM
Here is a great visual for how absolutely ruthless George R.R.Martin is. Every bookmark is a death in his series....
Even what I thought were Martin's lead characters aren't spared in his books. After spending a lot of time developing characters that won their way into the hearts of the readers, Martin would kill them off.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 21, 2013, 08:07:32 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on November 21, 2013, 06:42:40 AM
Quote from: Steelgrave on November 21, 2013, 01:14:47 AM
Here is a great visual for how absolutely ruthless George R.R.Martin is. Every bookmark is a death in his series....
Even what I thought were Martin's lead characters aren't spared in his books. After spending a lot of time developing characters that won their way into the hearts of the readers, Martin would kill them off.
David Weber is somewhat guilty of this as well, albeit to a lesser extent.  At least he only kills off characters now & then -- infrequently enough that you feel the impact of their deaths.  With Martin, the deaths come so thick and fast you start to become numb to them. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 21, 2013, 09:50:18 PM
I was sooooooooo disappointed with A Dance With Dragons.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on November 21, 2013, 10:16:13 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 21, 2013, 09:50:18 PM
I was sooooooooo disappointed with A Dance With Dragons.

Yeah it is not the best book in the series.  I have hopes that it's primary job was to set up a lot of background and plot lines for the next book. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 21, 2013, 11:55:47 PM
I figured that's what it was trying to do.  My probem is that he didn't seem to tell it all too well.  Slow pacing, almost fanatical (for him) devotion to three characters storyline and making Tyrion into a pig racer.  WTF?!?!??!  His LiveJournal blog constantly referred to the, 'Myreneese knot.'  After reading the book, I see that he was trying to bring major players together, I just think it was poorly told.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 23, 2013, 12:12:11 PM
Started reading "1913: In Search of the World Before the Great War" by Charles Emmerson. 50 pages in and its an awesome read. Think "The Proud Tower" by Tuchmann.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 27, 2013, 11:01:31 AM
NEW YORK (AFP) - The first book written in what is today the United States of America fetched $14.2 million in New York, becoming the world's most expensive printed book sold at auction.


The translation of Biblical psalms "The Bay Psalm Book" was printed by Puritan settlers in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1640 and sold at a one-lot auction in just minutes by Sotheby's Tuesday.


Bidding opened at $6 million and closed swiftly at a hammer price of $12.5 million, rising to $14.165 million once the buyer's premium was incorporated.


The book, with its browning pages and gilt edges, was displayed in a glass case behind the auctioneer to a relatively small crowd which attended the less than five-minute auction in person.


The settlers, who came to America to seek religious freedom, had set about making their own preferred translation from the Hebrew original of the Old Testament book after arriving from Europe.


Sotheby's named the buyer as David Rubenstein, the billionaire American financier and philanthropist. He was in Australia and his bid was conducted by telephone.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 27, 2013, 11:48:45 AM
From something that old, you could get Psalmonella poisoning.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 27, 2013, 11:55:31 AM
well played sir.

well played.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 27, 2013, 10:58:12 PM
I actually own a 3rd edition of a book originally published in the early 1700s by one of Oliver Cromwell's chaplains; the reprint was about the time of the American Revolution, and some soldier on one side or other may have had it with him because there are old blood stains on the pages. I bought the pages from an antique dealer in North Carolina, and had it sent to a rebinding specialist in Oklahoma (who has done work for clients all over the world, up to and including the Vatican); they rebound it in a cover and design of a type similar to how it would have been bound in during the late 1700s.

I sure didn't pay 14million for it (more like $140 total), but I like to show it to people sometimes. :) A soldier may have died with that book in his ruck or in a pocket of his jacket, reading it at night (or maybe bugging his fellows by reading it to them. ;D It's about God saving all sinners from sin someday, not only some. Not exactly a precept of Cromwell. ;) The guy who wrote it must have had stones the density of neutron stars...)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 01, 2013, 01:29:53 AM
I got the Everyman's Library edition of Clausewitz On War. That is the Paret version with extra stuff. 8)

It should help me develop my strategy game idea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 05, 2013, 06:52:54 PM
I am currently reading Citizen Soldiers by Stephen E. Ambrose.
Title: .
Post by: eyebiter on December 05, 2013, 07:35:10 PM
.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 05, 2013, 07:51:44 PM
I finally got back to a little Ender's Game, to the part where Bonzo gets into the fight with Ender in the bathroom. Then I thought, "WTF," since I've already seen the movie. He was paralyzed in the film, but in the book he was dead. Why would they make a change like that? Certainly to not NOT offend or frighten children - for crying out loud, my son's English class already read it this semester.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 05, 2013, 09:24:47 PM
Hollywood amazes me with its passive aggressive desire to be edgy and not offend anyone all the same time.  Play to the biggest audience.  We know best what everyone wants.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 06, 2013, 11:56:53 AM
^....and a sinister midget, with a bucket and mop, where the blood goes down the drain..........

I love that track!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 06, 2013, 03:07:27 PM
Who me?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 06, 2013, 03:18:41 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 06, 2013, 03:07:27 PM
Who me?

Nah. You're not......sinister.........
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 06, 2013, 03:23:55 PM
Right now I am.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 06, 2013, 03:44:06 PM
the Minister of Sinister?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 06, 2013, 03:53:39 PM
The sister of a minister?

..must put some new batteries in this hearing aid......
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 06, 2013, 04:42:20 PM
Ear now, watch that kinda talk.

Don't want you to start to wax nostalgic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 06, 2013, 04:43:26 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on December 06, 2013, 04:42:20 PM
Ear now, watch that kinda talk.

Don't want you to start to wax nostalgic.

I've never waxed my nose-hair.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 06, 2013, 04:44:39 PM
ok Rapunzel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 15, 2013, 08:34:32 AM
I am currently reading Brothers in Battle, Best of Friends by William Guarnere and Edward Heffron with Robyn Post.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 15, 2013, 12:51:59 PM
Reading The Sleepwalkers: How Europe Went to War in 1914 by Christopher Clark, the same author who wrote Iron Kingdom: The Rise and Fall of Prussia, 1600-1947.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on December 15, 2013, 01:18:58 PM
im reading Mailce

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15750692-malice

i was told its GoT for those who have run out of GoT - unfortunately its my current toilet book, so gets maybe a 15 page hit at a time, not enough to get immerssed but what ive read so far (page 100 or so) ive enjoyed very much - will move it to the bedside table
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2013, 06:41:11 PM
Finished The Sleepwalkers (turned out to be excellent) and am going to start Ostkrieg: Hitler's War of Extermination in the East by Stephen Fritz. He wrote Frontsoldaten...which I also want to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 30, 2013, 07:16:35 PM
Frontsoldaten is a very good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2013, 08:00:31 PM
Yeah a lot of people love that book. Hoping Ostkrieg is high quality...haven't read anything on WWII eastern front since college.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 30, 2013, 08:20:26 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 30, 2013, 08:00:31 PM
Yeah a lot of people love that book. Hoping Ostkrieg is high quality...haven't read anything on WWII eastern front since college.

:o

there is really something wrong with you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on December 30, 2013, 09:17:04 PM
stormbird by conn iggulden - does to the war of the roses what beevor did for ww2
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2013, 11:33:52 PM
^Have you read any of his books on Ghengis Khan?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 31, 2013, 12:07:06 AM
you ought to be reading this:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51X40206HPL.jpg&hash=118db048ffe8893a0ca62a710dd749dc9e4de23e)

http://www.amazon.com/Hells-Gate-Battle-Cherkassy-January-February/dp/0965758435

hasnt read Eastern Front books.... FFS!

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F972mag.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F07%2F181148-triple_facepalm_super.jpg&hash=b0d39dfb61939347191cc9cc9ce130fc8111374b)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 31, 2013, 02:26:38 AM
I'm reading a book called Vlad: The Last Confession by C.C. Humphreys.  I am really digging it so far, about 1/3 through.

http://www.amazon.com/Vlad-Last-Confession-C-C-Humphreys-ebook/dp/B004TTS2LM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1388474739&sr=8-1&keywords=vlad
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on December 31, 2013, 04:06:37 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 30, 2013, 11:33:52 PM
^Have you read any of his books on Ghengis Khan?

I haven't Gus, but my dad thought they were awesome, its him the put me onto the roses book
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 31, 2013, 11:33:58 AM
^I've been wanting to read his Mongol stuff for a long time. And Toonces that Vlad title looks great...post your impressions if you have time.

Star I haven't read a lot on WWII at all because I had my Gramps around for so long. Until recently it felt like family stories more than 'history' you know what I mean? I've always been more interested in WWI because I never knew anyone who lived through it, unlike WWII.

Anyway, Ostkrieg so far is a solid read, I'm about 50 pages in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 31, 2013, 05:06:15 PM
'I Want My MTV: The Uncensored Story Of the Music Video Revolution,' by Craig Marks and Rob Tannenbaum.  Of especial interest, I would think, to grogs of a certain age, who, like me, couldn't wait for school to be over so I could go home and watch MTV.  Waiting for any number of videos with hot chicks to get your blood boiling.  Such as:


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on December 31, 2013, 05:43:01 PM
The Civil War: A Narrative by Shelby Foote.  Ok well maybe I haven't exactly starting reading it at the moment, but I got the three books for Christmas and the box set is currently sitting on top of my pile of books to be read just daring me to find the time to read them....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 01, 2014, 02:01:44 PM
I've just begun rereading A Mighty Fortress by David Weber, the 4th book in his Safehold series.  I'm trying to time things so that the next Safehold novel Like a Mighty Army comes out before I finish Book 6.  :) 




Quote from: TheCommandTent on December 31, 2013, 05:43:01 PM
The Civil War: A Narrative by Shelby Foote.  Ok well maybe I haven't exactly starting reading it at the moment, but I got the three books for Christmas and the box set is currently sitting on top of my pile of books to be read just daring me to find the time to read them....
Very cool, Tent.  I know others here have recommended it, and it's already on my "must get around to reading at some point (just not this second)" list. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 03, 2014, 01:06:40 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 31, 2013, 11:33:58 AM
And Toonces that Vlad title looks great...post your impressions if you have time.


I finished Vlad up today.  It's not an excessively long book.  I really enjoyed it.  I didn't know too much about Vlad the Impaler, so this was all new info to me.  It's historical fiction in that the author based the book on the known facts of Vlad's life, but of course filled things out and took some liberties to make an interesting story.  It moves fairly quickly and is straightforward enough to follow.  It's pretty violent.  I didn't think the writing was quite as epic as Guy Gavriel Kay, but it was definitely good writing.

I give it two thumbs up.  I don't know that I'd necessarily buy it- it's not a story I can see reading more than once- but if you can find it at the library or borrow it for your Kindle (which is what I did) then I say it's definitely worth a read.

I've now moved onto a book I bought last summer called Lords of Misrule by Nigel Tranter, part of the Stewart Trilogy (history of Scotland).  I finished his Bruce Trilogy a while back and really enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2014, 05:26:46 PM
^Thanks man. I'm getting it for free with a gift card, along with Conn Iggulden's book on Kublai Khan and another title to be named later, something either on the Picts, the Druids or Celts...not sure which yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 03, 2014, 05:51:50 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 03, 2014, 05:26:46 PM
^Thanks man. I'm getting it for free with a gift card, along with Conn Iggulden's book on Kublai Khan and another title to be named later, something either on the Picts, the Druids or Celts...not sure which yet.

i see some Rome II homework
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 03, 2014, 05:58:10 PM
Starting on Tom Clancy's Debt of Honour - read it a couple of times but i want to take some of the battles from there - saipan and guam, the bomb run on the Japanese dams and the comanche attacks on the awacs vehicles and create them in Command
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 03, 2014, 06:08:12 PM
Gus-
I don't know that Vlad is buy-worthy.  It only took me about 3 days to read.  And like I said, it's not a story you'll want to read multiple times like Game of Thrones or The Stand or something.  The story is very one-dimensional.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2014, 06:42:19 PM
^I'm a big Vlad fan...have lots of fiction and history on him and his life and times. Eventually, one day I want to write my own bit on him.

For me it is worth it to buy and keep it forever and I can chalk it up to 'research.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 03, 2014, 07:04:46 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on January 03, 2014, 05:58:10 PM
Starting on Tom Clancy's Debt of Honour - read it a couple of times but i want to take some of the battles from there - saipan and guam, the bomb run on the Japanese dams and the comanche attacks on the awacs vehicles and create them in Command

Not a bad book at all. I enjoyed all his earlier stuff. Without Remorse is a good 'un.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 03, 2014, 07:47:02 PM
Last week I grabbed several titles, including

- 1913: The Eve of War
- Raid on Truman
- Letters of Lt. Col. George Brenton Laurie
- Hitler's Last Secretary

...and several other 'free' books. I'm reading each of them off and on.

Still need to get through Ender's Game, dammit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 03, 2014, 08:00:24 PM
Ok, then, Gus.  You'll have to post YOUR impressions when you're done, then.

And Banzai, you didn't nail the avatar this time dude.  Sorry.   :(   8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2014, 08:02:24 PM
^Shirley.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 03, 2014, 08:04:27 PM
Quote from: Toonces on January 03, 2014, 08:00:24 PM
Ok, then, Gus.  You'll have to post YOUR impressions when you're done, then.

And Banzai, you didn't nail the avatar this time dude.  Sorry.   :(   8)

I know.  :-[

I was playing around with it on my iPad last week and it's not quite as impressive as I first thought it was.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 03, 2014, 08:21:20 PM
What the Hel is it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 03, 2014, 08:43:41 PM
Something from flash Gordon in the background - the foreground.... Fk knows!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 03, 2014, 09:06:12 PM
What is wrong with you people?  That is a classic clip from Flash Gordon.  Toward the very beginning of the movie, Flash is in Ming's court and grabs a football like object and uses it to beat up Ming's guards in an impromptu game of football.  That is the Hawkmen leader who secretly clubs one of Ming's guards in an attempt to help Flash embarrass Ming.  Good grief and you all call yourselves geeks and nerds.  Pah'leaze!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 03, 2014, 09:09:48 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 03, 2014, 09:06:12 PM
What is wrong with you people?  That is a classic clip from Flash Gordon.  Toward the very beginning of the movie, Flash is in Ming's court and grabs a football like object and uses it to beat up Ming's guards in an impromptu game of football.  That is the Hawkmen leader who secretly clubs one of Ming's guards in an attempt to help Flash embarrass Ming.  Good grief and you all call yourselves geeks and nerds.  Pah'leaze!

Go, Bison, Go!  8)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 03, 2014, 09:14:24 PM
This thread and the bad movies one has shown there is an upper class of geek that doesn't watch crap films! :p
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 03, 2014, 09:34:47 PM
Excuse me...did you say "crap film" when referring to Flash Gordon?

You forgot to add the word "brilliant" to that. Or "awesome" if you feel like being a Yank about it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 03, 2014, 10:02:38 PM
The next thing to happen better not be someone being uninformed about another freaking classic:  Ice Pirates.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 03, 2014, 10:06:12 PM
Space Herpes!

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 04, 2014, 12:17:43 AM
I thought the avatar was SWEET!  Flash is one of my favorite movies!  Top Ten for sure.  And I may be one of the few people on Earth who had the soundtrack album and listened to the whole thing.  Repeatedly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 04, 2014, 02:08:35 AM
I like when people keep their avatars consistent, though, like Jarhead with the gun theme, me with the Simpsons, Mirth with Bill Murray, etc.  Banzai always had some sort of Japanese cat, which I thought was pretty cool.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 04, 2014, 09:57:55 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 04, 2014, 12:17:43 AM
I thought the avatar was SWEET!  Flash is one of my favorite movies!  Top Ten for sure.  And I may be one of the few people on Earth who had the soundtrack album and listened to the whole thing.  Repeatedly.

I have the CD in my car and listen to it every now and then. I have to hide it from my daughter, otherwise that would be the ONLY music she'd want to listen to. She does love Queen, so I've managed to do something right in raising her.  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 04, 2014, 10:04:10 AM
you call your car the War Rocket Ajax dont you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 04, 2014, 10:09:39 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on January 04, 2014, 09:57:55 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 04, 2014, 12:17:43 AM
I thought the avatar was SWEET!  Flash is one of my favorite movies!  Top Ten for sure.  And I may be one of the few people on Earth who had the soundtrack album and listened to the whole thing.  Repeatedly.

I have the CD in my car and listen to it every now and then. I have to hide it from my daughter, otherwise that would be the ONLY music she'd want to listen to. She does love Queen, so I've managed to do something right in raising her.  8)

My daughter is a big Queen fan, too.  Although, I do not own the soundtrack CD, so she doesn't know what she is missing.  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 04, 2014, 11:19:17 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on January 04, 2014, 10:04:10 AM
you call your car the War Rocket Ajax dont you?

Yes. Yes, I could do that. Well played, sir.

It beats the name "Clifford The Big Red Dog" that my wife calls my car:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1175.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr624%2FMichaelE6%2Fcar.jpg&hash=3e3bebbc61ee7aeda99d2cc834dcd79f4b5cdb45)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 04, 2014, 01:11:41 PM
please tell me that isnt the RS.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 04, 2014, 01:14:45 PM
It's a lower-end, admittedly. I couldn't sink any more cash in it when I bought it (September 2012). Next one will hopefully be a top-line one. I love this car.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 04, 2014, 01:22:20 PM
theres inexpensive things that could be done to that car.  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on January 04, 2014, 07:59:06 PM
I've decided to return and see what Jack and Stephen have gotten themselves into again...

Currently reading the book "Far Side of the World"



(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbritlitahoy.files.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fmaster_and_commander.jpg&hash=81bd0754cb83afed2ad2689b44ae75f00cd9bd8d)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 05, 2014, 07:05:02 AM
I have all the O'Brian books (20, plus the unfinished 21st) and have read them multiple times. I don't usually like historical fiction, but they are so well done, and so full of period flavour that its easy to suspend belief. What helps is many of the situations are based around historical events.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on January 05, 2014, 08:13:09 AM
I'm doing the audible version narrated by Patrick Tull.  It is the best narration I've ever experienced.  You can tell that Tull loves the series and gives all the characters a distinct voice and is excellent with Jack's personality.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on January 05, 2014, 11:08:58 AM
Death Traps: The Survival of an American Armored Division in World War II [Mass Market Paperback] by Cooper

Armoured Thunderbolt by Zaloga

Great read so far and Coopers is particularly interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: republic on January 05, 2014, 11:44:15 AM
Quote from: endfire79 on January 05, 2014, 11:08:58 AM
Death Traps: The Survival of an American Armored Division in World War II [Mass Market Paperback] by Cooper

Armoured Thunderbolt by Zaloga

Great read so far and Coopers is particularly interesting.

Death Traps was very revealing, there were lots of little bits of info I had never heard before.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 05, 2014, 11:47:17 AM
^Added to my list. Armored Thunderbolt is already on my real bookshelf as well as my Kindle shelf. It was a good read and a very interesting look into the forerunners of the M4.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 06, 2014, 03:26:32 AM
I'm into the third book of the Red Gambit series by Colin Gee. A very well written alternate history of World War III set in 1945-47 where the
Soviets attack the Western Allies. Far better than anything by Turtledove; well paced, the combat is extremely brutal and the characters are quite well fleshed out. I like how the armies seem to follow their respective historical doctrines until circumstances force realistic changes. The author is also a wargamer so there a lot of maps (unfortunately not very clear on the Kindle, but he's made them available on his website) and the oobs seem correct. The series has been getting great reviews on Amazon and I'm enjoying them immensely.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ComradeP on January 06, 2014, 01:30:39 PM
Recreational:

Italy's Sorrow - a year of war 1944-1945 by James Holland.

and

Carthage must be destroyed by Richard Miles

Scenario work:

The Korsun Pocket - The encirclement and breakout of a German army in the East,  1944 by Niklas Zetterling and Anders Frankson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 06, 2014, 01:46:41 PM
How is Carthage Must Be Destroyed? I have that in the queue.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ComradeP on January 06, 2014, 10:21:08 PM
More detailed than expected, as it also covers the early history of Carthage and many other Phoenician settlements.

I thought it would be primarily about the wars with Rome and events leading up to that, but it offers interesting information on Carthage's early history as well. The Dutch title of the translated version would translate to "Carthage - Rise and fall of a city" which is an accurate description of what the book is about.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 07, 2014, 08:45:47 AM
Sounds good, thanks. Will fill in a big hole in my personal knowledge of that area and era.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 17, 2014, 08:09:36 PM
Just finished Ostkrieg by Fritz...excellent book. Now about to start Imperial Governor by George Shipway, a novel on Boudicca's revolt against Rome
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 18, 2014, 10:26:43 AM
Y'all are some ambitious mofos.  I'm doing some light reading.  'Life', by Keith Richards.  Never was a Stones fan, but, I like Keith better than Mick.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 18, 2014, 12:15:30 PM
^I love the Stones. How's 'Life'?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on January 18, 2014, 06:31:59 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 18, 2014, 12:15:30 PM
^I love the Stones. How's 'Life'?

I read it at some point and really liked it. Definitely worth a read if you're a Stones fan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 18, 2014, 06:44:45 PM
I like the Stones; not a huge fan but I like 'em. I'll put this book on my list.

I'm interested in rock and roll history, too, like this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Led-Zeppelin-Crashed-Here-Landmarks/dp/1595800182

This is a GREAT book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 18, 2014, 06:51:21 PM
^I'm sure there's a couple of chapters in there covering the er...shark/fish story...right?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 18, 2014, 06:56:20 PM
You mean when Led Zep was shoving shark parts into certain areas of a young lady? I don't think it is. That's kinda gross, I don't want to see where that happened. :P

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 18, 2014, 09:00:55 PM
Liar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 18, 2014, 09:09:47 PM
Seattle, B_C.  The Edgewater Inn.  The Vanilla Fudge have Super 8 of it.

@Gus: I liked it.  Keith told it in small episodes within chapters, loosely organized. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 19, 2014, 07:05:23 PM
^YES! Dog knows his rock.

Sounds like a good book on Keith Richards. I'd imagine he has some of the best stories in rock history to tell.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 19, 2014, 08:04:53 PM
He likes knives and guns.  And heroin.  Lots and lots of heroin.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 19, 2014, 08:15:25 PM
Huh. I don't recall that story. I'll have to re-read the book, it's been a little while. Thing is, the book is not just about Led Zep; it has lots of stories from different bands and artists in there.

Oh! Almost forgot to say this. I read Ozzy's autobiography this past summer, I Am Ozzy. That book is ALL kinds of brilliant. If you want to know something about his upbringing and how he got in with Black Sabbath, this book should be in your library right now. It was highly engaging and kept me hooked through the end.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 19, 2014, 08:41:36 PM
Hate to stick you out in public, B_C, but, Keith Richards is the guitar player from the Rolling Stones.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 19, 2014, 08:46:00 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 19, 2014, 08:41:36 PM
Hate to stick you out in public, B_C, but, Keith Richards is the guitar player from the Rolling Stones.

MD, I KNOW that.  :P I misunderstood the first shark fish thing, I thought he was asking about the Led Zep book I posted the link for.

Keith Richards is living proof that Egyptian mummies walk among us.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 19, 2014, 08:49:40 PM
He is a bit, 'Walking Dead,' isn't he?  No, the mud shark incident is pretty famous.  And according to a Frank Zappa song, the vanilla Fudge were present and recorded the whole affair on Super 8.  Not sure I would actually want to see the footage, but I sure would like to possess the film :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 20, 2014, 09:06:09 AM
Just started on the Thousand Mile War book (recommended way above in the thread) on the Alaskan WW2 campaign, after finishing The Genesis of Science, a warts-and-all-but-respectful look at how the early through late medieval period picked up Greco-Roman studies and developed them (sometimes in hilariously wrong ways by our standards, but at least they were trying. :) )

Have started re-reading the updated Kindle version of The Complete History of Jack the Ripper, but it hasn't been that long since I read the original 1990s edition and (naturally) not much has changed (and what did change has been basically covered in a new introduction), so I may move on to something else soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on January 20, 2014, 10:48:51 AM
Working on Hugh Thomas' tome on "The Spanish Civil War". Still in the build up to the civil war part of the book. Thomas goes into great detail about the different political parties in Spain during the Republic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2014, 12:23:15 PM
I would definitely want to watch the footage, with Keith Richards watching next to me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 20, 2014, 12:36:23 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 20, 2014, 12:23:15 PM
I would definitely want to watch the footage, with Keith Richards watching next to me.

Gusington: the Grogheads' Dexter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2014, 12:41:51 PM
Amongst other issues. Like dwarfism and a libido run amok.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 20, 2014, 12:53:19 PM
I meant it as a compliment.

Although dwarves are pretty awesome as is a libido (as long as the 'better half' plays along).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 20, 2014, 12:58:04 PM
Im reading Gus's diary.
most interesting.  while Ive used the turkey baster before hes quite creative in its applications.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2014, 12:59:13 PM
I am nothing if not creative.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 20, 2014, 01:15:55 PM
but aveeno in the baster was a stroke of genius!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 20, 2014, 01:51:47 PM
Did you get to the 4girls1cup part? Gus started it before there was a 2/1.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 20, 2014, 02:01:24 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on January 20, 2014, 01:51:47 PM
Did you get to the 4girls1cup part? Gus started it before there was a 2/1.

Somewhere out there is 'Randy dwarf shitting in a bucket' long before all this 2 girls nonsense

A pioneer of porn is our Gus
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 20, 2014, 03:12:07 PM
I thought it was 4girls1Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 20, 2014, 03:14:05 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on January 20, 2014, 03:12:07 PM
I thought it was 4girls1Gus.

That's...actually quite a bit more disturbing than what I said.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2014, 03:31:56 PM
^I enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 21, 2014, 09:55:39 AM
I am currently reading A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole. It is definitely a change of pace from what I have been accustomed to.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on January 21, 2014, 04:47:11 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 21, 2014, 09:55:39 AM
I am currently reading A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole. It is definitely a change of pace from what I have been accustomed to.

How has this held up over time?  I've considered reading this, but never have.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 21, 2014, 05:14:33 PM
Quote from: airboy on January 21, 2014, 04:47:11 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 21, 2014, 09:55:39 AM
I am currently reading A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole. It is definitely a change of pace from what I have been accustomed to.

How has this held up over time?  I've considered reading this, but never have.

I had never read the book before. But I would guess that it would mean more to someone who had lived through the period in which it was set than anyone much younger. Those unfamiliar with some of the terminology and phraseology would have to research some things to fully comprehend just what the author is referring to, not to mention the New Orleans-ese (http://www.gumbopages.com/yatspeak.html)  local language used in the book that could very well be a challenge for many of its readers. But the characters the author has created make the book well worth the read if nothing else. All in all I am enjoying the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on January 23, 2014, 03:38:31 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 20, 2014, 12:41:51 PM
Amongst other issues. Like dwarfism and a libido run amok.

since your visible bodyparts seem in proportion you cannot claim dwarfism as your label....  I would suggest something more accurate  like "you're just fucking short"

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Grimnirsson on January 23, 2014, 03:56:25 PM
Currently reading on my Kindle A Man In Full by Tom Wolfe  - enjoying it a lot :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 23, 2014, 07:29:42 PM
That's so dull Breezy. Come on. Now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 24, 2014, 11:05:24 PM
A Man in Full is a fantastic book.  I've read it two or three times.  I may even read it again- it's been a few years.

I'm currently a bit scattered in my reading, working my way through Six Days in June about the Six Day War, The Art of War: Medieval Warfare, and a book by the guy who wrote Vlad called A Place Called Armageddon, that is really good so far- better than Vlad- about the siege of Constantinople. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 25, 2014, 01:28:59 PM
^I just took delivery of Vlad, got it for .01. A Place Called Armageddon eh?

*amazons*
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 25, 2014, 02:17:58 PM
http://www.amazon.com/Place-Called-Armageddon-Constantinople-1453/dp/1402280858/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390677295&sr=1-1&keywords=a+place+called+armageddon

To the Greeks who love it, it is Constantinople. To the Turks who covet it, the Red Apple. Safe behind its magnificent walls, the city was once the heart of the vast Byzantine empire. 1453. The empire has shrunk to what lies within those now-crumbling walls. A relic. Yet for one man, Constantinople is the stepping stone to destiny. Mehmet II is twenty when he is annointed Sultan. Now, seeking Allah's will and Man's glory, he brings an army of one hundred thousand, outnumbering the defenders ten to one. He has also brings something new to the city - the most deadly threat the ancient walls have ever faced. And yet, through seven weeks of sea battles, night battles, by tunnel and tower, the defence holds, and will until the final assault and a single bullet that will change history. But a city is more than stone, its fate inseparable from that of its people. Men like Gregoras, a mercenary and exile, returning to the hated place he once loved. Like his twin and betrayer, the subtle diplomat, Theon. Like Sofia, loved by two brothers but forced to make a desperate choice between them. And Leilah, a powerful mystic and assassin, seeking her own destiny in the flames. This is the tale of one of history's greatest battles for one of the world's most extraordinary places. This is the story of people, from peasant to emperor - with the city's fate, and theirs, undecided...until the moment the Red Apple falls.

"By Liviu C. Suciu on July 25, 2011
Format: Hardcover
INTRODUCTION: C.C. Humphreys came to my attention with "Vlad: The Last Confession"; despite my deep misgivings about it being another stupid rehashing of the myth of Dracula, the novel was actually very well researched and offered maybe the best English language portrait of the real-life Vlad the Impaler and his lifelong fight against the Turks without glossing over his darker impulses, but without any Dracula nonsense either.

So when not that long ago, I found out about Mr. Humphreys' new offering "A Place Called Armageddon" about the siege of Constantinople in 1453, the novel became the number one expected non-sff of mine in 2011 and I bought it the first moment I could and read it asap. Ultra high expectations and what can I say: the author not only delivered but surpassed them and I will explain why next.

Before continuing, I would add two things: despite being a very well researched and reasonably accurate historical novel, "A Place Called Armageddon" is also brimming with the fantastic - there are prophecies, mystic books, alchemists and fortune tellers and while it is a stretch to call the novel speculative fiction, it should greatly appeal to sff lovers for those elements and the superb world building the authors manages in the book's almost 500 pages.

There a lot of nice touches in the novel that tie-in with "Vlad: The Last Confession" including recounting of some earlier events there and a prophecy about one of the main characters here that we know how it will be fulfilled in the earlier book. Of course the structure of the two books is very different since "A Place Called Armageddon" is about a moment in historical time, so it essentially takes place over some weeks with a prologue a year before and an epilogue years later, while "Vlad: The Last Confession" takes place over decades, so there is no particular order in which to read the two novels...."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 25, 2014, 02:29:20 PM
I have a LOT of trouble finding decent fiction books that will hold my attention.  So, when I find an author who's book I really enjoy I seem to have a habit of sticking with that author for a while, eg. Guy Gavriel Kay.

So far Humphreys is doing well.  I'm also fond of Nigel Tranter, although his writing always starts to get tiresome by 3/4 of the way through a book.  I just got book 2 of the Stewart trilogy in the mail, so that's queued up after I finish Armageddon. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 26, 2014, 12:28:14 PM
How far are you into Armageddon?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 26, 2014, 02:29:48 PM
About 1/3. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 28, 2014, 07:22:30 PM
Tonight I will begin reading Malice (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/malice-john-gwynne/1113855388?ean=9780316399739) by John Gwynne.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 28, 2014, 08:23:29 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 28, 2014, 07:22:30 PM
Tonight I will begin reading Malice (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/malice-john-gwynne/1113855388?ean=9780316399739) by John Gwynne.

Highly recommended
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 28, 2014, 08:56:08 PM
I'm reading a couple of Barry Cunliffe's books concurrently: 'Britain Begins' (http://www.amazon.com/Britain-Begins-Barry-Cunliffe-ebook/dp/B008YU1H1E/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390960285&sr=1-1) and 'The Extraordinary Voyage of Pytheas the Greek (http://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Voyage-Pytheas-Greek-Discovered/dp/0713995092/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=)'. One of them on Kindle and one in hardcover.

The first book does bring up one of the drawbacks to the smaller e-ink readers such as my Paperwhite: the maps and photographs are just too small and muddy looking despite the greater degree of greyscale available over older readers. Occasionally I have to pull out my iPad and sync up to a particular page in the kindle app just so I can get a better look at a distribution map or the ancient lines of a hill fort or something.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 07, 2014, 03:57:49 PM
I've been playing Levée En Masse off and on (on my iPhone) recently, and marveling at how in some simple game mechanics it captures the flavor of the crazy years of the French Republic up to Napoleon; and Mom just finished plowing slowly but steadily through The Barbarian Conversion which serves as a history of the Dark Ages (from context before the fall of Rome up through the start of the Norman conquests in Britain) from a perspective of religious politics.

Consequently she's looking for something new soon, and I was reminded I don't have a good book yet on the political and strategic ferment of the Republic vs Pretty Much All Of Freaking Europe Including Itself. ;) While she likes medieval history, I have plenty more of that already and she's tired of that already; and I recently picked up a similar political/strategic book on WW1 (thanks to a recommendation upthread) which she'll probably want to read, too, but a history of the pre-Nappy/Nappy Wars (World Wars Minus One and Zero basically  8) ) seems like a good idea.

Any recommendations?

Note: given a choice between the two related topics, I'd prefer the insane complexity of the pre-Nappy Republic's struggle myself, since after all Napoleon's whole raison d'existence or however it's said in French was basically to solve all that).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 07, 2014, 06:09:15 PM
"Red Country" by Joe Abercrombie, the latest in the "The Blade Itself" series. Excellent, as usual.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F61fHN4Ht6xL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2%2CTopRight%2C1%2C0_SH20_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg&hash=5379c7651c5ba0e0681bbc6f8405ee36df1b2a26)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on February 07, 2014, 06:37:08 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on February 07, 2014, 06:09:15 PM
"Red Country" by Joe Abercrombie, the latest in the "The Blade Itself" series. Excellent, as usual.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F61fHN4Ht6xL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2%2CTopRight%2C1%2C0_SH20_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg&hash=5379c7651c5ba0e0681bbc6f8405ee36df1b2a26)

is this still the same story of the guy that has uncontrolable rage?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 07, 2014, 06:50:51 PM
It is the same series, yes. But of course Logan Ninefingers was just one of the ensemble....although his story was the most compelling.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on February 07, 2014, 06:56:08 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on February 07, 2014, 06:50:51 PM
It is the same series, yes. But of course Logan Ninefingers was just one of the ensemble....although his story was the most compelling.

ive read the first 3 books of law - i didnt know there were any more - dammit, where are my amazon vouchers?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 07, 2014, 11:01:45 PM
The first three follow the same cast and storyline. After that, some folks you "know" will make appearances. I don't want to give anything away, but "Red Country" is (so far) focusing on one of the "mains", much to my delight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 12, 2014, 01:26:49 PM
Am in the middle of my annual re-reading of Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield.  Man, I so dearly wish the movie 300 had been based on this instead of that crap by Frank Miller... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on February 17, 2014, 09:34:41 PM
Just finished Under A Graveyard Moon.  It was pretty good.  Haven't picked up the sequel yet.  I not sure I like Ringo's writing style.  It's a little hard to follow at times. 

Tomorrow, David Webers Like A Mighty Army comes out.  It's the next installment of the Safehold series. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 17, 2014, 09:43:38 PM
^Thanks for the reminder. I thought I'd preordered but I'll check to be sure. Also, Weber's (and Eric Flint's) next installment in the 'Crown of Slaves' series (based in the Honorverse) titled 'Cauldren of Ghosts' is due out in April.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 19, 2014, 06:14:54 AM
So I went to my "local" Barnes and Noble (it's almost an hour's drive from home) to *finally* pick up the last three Wheel of Time novels (now that they're all available in paperback)...and of course, they only had A Memory of Light in stock.  >:(  So I had to order the other two, and wait for them to be shipped to my house. 

I hate waiting. 




Quote from: OJsDad on February 17, 2014, 09:34:41 PMTomorrow, David Webers Like A Mighty Army comes out.  It's the next installment of the Safehold series.
I just picked up my reserved copy today (well, yesterday now).  I've already begun reading it.  ;D 




Quote from: Staggerwing on February 17, 2014, 09:43:38 PM
Also, Weber's (and Eric Flint's) next installment in the 'Crown of Slaves' series (based in the Honorverse) titled 'Cauldren of Ghosts' is due out in April.
Yep, that one's definitely on my "going to get" list as well. 

I have to admit, though, that I'm even more excited for the next "Shadows" book that comes out (whenever that may be).  Can't wait to see what happens when Honor's pals kick over that hornet's nest... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 06:47:24 AM
IIRC, Admiral Mike has already kicked the nest and wiped out some of the hornets. We're just waiting for the biggest nests who just heard about it to get over their "WTF?!" and respond in true force.

When is the next book in that series due out? I haven't heard anything yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 19, 2014, 12:00:28 PM
Martok, I was quite happy with my Kindle versions of the WoT books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on February 19, 2014, 02:17:06 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on February 19, 2014, 12:00:28 PM
Martok, I was quite happy with my Kindle versions of the WoT books.

I read all the hardback editions of the Wheel of Time series free, courtesy of my local library. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 19, 2014, 03:01:11 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on February 19, 2014, 02:17:06 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on February 19, 2014, 12:00:28 PM
Martok, I was quite happy with my Kindle versions of the WoT books.

I read all the hardback editions of the Wheel of Time series free, courtesy of my local library.

WHAT WITCHERY IS THIS!!!

;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 19, 2014, 03:17:24 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 06:47:24 AM
IIRC, Admiral Mike has already kicked the nest and wiped out some of the hornets. We're just waiting for the biggest nests who just heard about it to get over their "WTF?!" and respond in true force.
I'm tempted to nit-pick here and point out what you said isn't quite accurate (at least as I'd read things), but I can't really comment further without spoiling stuff.  :P 



Quote from: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 06:47:24 AM
When is the next book in that series due out? I haven't heard anything yet.
No idea.  As far as I'm aware, he hasn't even announced a title yet.  I would guess 2016, but that's pure speculation on my part. 




Quote from: Greybriar on February 19, 2014, 02:17:06 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on February 19, 2014, 12:00:28 PM
Martok, I was quite happy with my Kindle versions of the WoT books.

I read all the hardback editions of the Wheel of Time series free, courtesy of my local library. 
I'm only ordering the paperback versions since I already own the rest of the series in paperback.  I like to have complete collections when possible.  8) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 19, 2014, 07:04:50 PM
WoT would be a series I owned in hardcover if at all possible.  Same with Martin's Ice and Fire series.  The paperbacks are just too hard on the eyes and the hands.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 07:41:10 PM
Quote from: Martok on February 19, 2014, 03:17:24 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 06:47:24 AM
IIRC, Admiral Mike has already kicked the nest and wiped out some of the hornets. We're just waiting for the biggest nests who just heard about it to get over their "WTF?!" and respond in true force.
I'm tempted to nit-pick here and point out what you said isn't quite accurate (at least as I'd read things), but I can't really comment further without spoiling stuff.  :P 

I'll have to re-read it then. You're probably correct as my memory is now less like a swiss watch and more like swiss cheese.

I've actually been thinking of gradually picking up all the books in hardcover as a kind of keepsake. The earlier ones are a bit cheaper now and I did buy at least 3 of the later ones in hardcover already. Also, I think it was truly classy for Baen Books to include the CD of many of their works in multiple ebook formats inside a bunch of their hardcovers. I don't think they do it anymore but I still give them kudos for trying it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on February 19, 2014, 11:23:21 PM
I just started reading Bitter Glory: Poland and Its Fate 1918-1939 by Richard M. Watt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 20, 2014, 07:36:45 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 07:41:10 PM
I've actually been thinking of gradually picking up all the books in hardcover as a kind of keepsake. The earlier ones are a bit cheaper now and I did buy at least 3 of the later ones in hardcover already.
I'm contemplating this as well.  In fact, for most of the books in the series, I already own the hardcover editions.  The only copies I own that are paperback-only are books 2-5 in the mainline series, book 1 in the Shadows series, and the 2 Torch novels that have come out so far. 




Quote from: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 07:41:10 PM
Also, I think it was truly classy for Baen Books to include the CD of many of their works in multiple ebook formats inside a bunch of their hardcovers. I don't think they do it anymore but I still give them kudos for trying it.
+1  I really like that they did that. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 20, 2014, 10:27:39 AM
I'm finishing up the book (from way upthread) on the Thousand-Mile War in the Aleutians; and as a huge change of pace (in a way) have started Simonson's epic late 80s run on Marvel's Mighty Thor. (It's the Omnibus collection, which arrived in a tome well over one thousand pages bound in a classy black and gold hardback -- rather like my own novel which tickles me immensely!  ;D But the book is so heavy I hurt my left hand trying to hold it!)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 20, 2014, 10:38:54 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 17, 2014, 09:34:41 PM
Just finished Under A Graveyard Moon.  It was pretty good.  Haven't picked up the sequel yet.  I not sure I like Ringo's writing style.  It's a little hard to follow at times. 

Tomorrow, David Webers Like A Mighty Army comes out.  It's the next installment of the Safehold series.

Grogheads had a review of Under a Graveyard Sky.
Next in the series has been released: To Sail a Darkling Sea.  Grogheads review will appear early next month.
http://www.amazon.com/Sail-Darkling-Black-Tide-Rising-ebook/dp/B00HW1TV8W/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1392910680&sr=8-2&keywords=on+a+darkling+sea

I recommend waiting to read the grogheads review before buying "Darkling Sea"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on February 20, 2014, 06:03:58 PM
Quote from: airboy on February 20, 2014, 10:38:54 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 17, 2014, 09:34:41 PM
Just finished Under A Graveyard Moon.  It was pretty good.  Haven't picked up the sequel yet.  I not sure I like Ringo's writing style.  It's a little hard to follow at times. 

Tomorrow, David Webers Like A Mighty Army comes out.  It's the next installment of the Safehold series.

Grogheads had a review of Under a Graveyard Sky.
Next in the series has been released: To Sail a Darkling Sea.  Grogheads review will appear early next month.
http://www.amazon.com/Sail-Darkling-Black-Tide-Rising-ebook/dp/B00HW1TV8W/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1392910680&sr=8-2&keywords=on+a+darkling+sea

I recommend waiting to read the grogheads review before buying "Darkling Sea"

It's because of your that review that I purchased it.  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on February 20, 2014, 06:06:35 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 07:41:10 PM
Quote from: Martok on February 19, 2014, 03:17:24 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 19, 2014, 06:47:24 AM
IIRC, Admiral Mike has already kicked the nest and wiped out some of the hornets. We're just waiting for the biggest nests who just heard about it to get over their "WTF?!" and respond in true force.
I'm tempted to nit-pick here and point out what you said isn't quite accurate (at least as I'd read things), but I can't really comment further without spoiling stuff.  :P 

I'll have to re-read it then. You're probably correct as my memory is now less like a swiss watch and more like swiss cheese.

I thought Staggerwing's description was pretty right on. 

I like the Shadows story line a lot better at this time.  However, am I the only one that is getting bored with the same old, DD's take out SD's because the SL is so far behind tech and it's leadership is a bunch of morons? 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 20, 2014, 06:44:38 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 20, 2014, 06:06:35 PM
However, am I the only one that is getting bored with the same old, DD's take out SD's because the SL is so far behind tech and it's leadership is a bunch of morons? 

That may be why Weber introduced a certain turn of events a few books back that pretty much knocked the Star Empire of Manticore back on it's ass and required Admiral Harrington's 'Only Nixon could go to China' initiative.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on February 20, 2014, 09:49:20 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 20, 2014, 06:44:38 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on February 20, 2014, 06:06:35 PM
However, am I the only one that is getting bored with the same old, DD's take out SD's because the SL is so far behind tech and it's leadership is a bunch of morons? 

That may be why Weber introduced a certain turn of events a few books back that pretty much knocked the Star Empire of Manticore back on it's ass and required Admiral Harrington's 'Only Nixon could go to China' initiative.

He explains a lot of what happened at the beginning of Storm From The Shadows in the Authors Note.   If you haven't read it yet, you should.  Here is a key piece of it;

Quote
Some of my readers who have spoken to me at conventions know that Honor was supposed to be killed in At All Costs under my version of what Mentor of Arisia used to refer to as his "visualization of the cosmic all." I always knew that killing Honor would have been a high-risk move, and that many readers of the series would have been very angry with me, but at the time I'd organized the timeline of Honor's life—that is, before I'd even begun On Basilisk Station—I hadn't really anticipated the fierce loyalty of the readership she was going to generate. Nor, for that matter, had I fully realized just how fond I was going to become of the character. Nonetheless, I remained steadfastly determined (my wife Sharon will tell you that I can sometimes be just a tad stubborn) to hew to my original plan. The fact that I'd always visualized Honor as being based on Horatio Nelson only reinforced my determination, since the Battle of Manticore was supposed to be the equivalent of his Battle of Trafalgar. Like Nelson, Honor had been supposed to fall in battle at the moment of victory in the climactic battle which saved the Star Kingdom of Manticore and ratified her as the Royal Manticoran Navy's greatest heroine.
At the same time, however, I had always intended to continue writing books in the "Honorverse." The great challenge of the later books was supposed to emerge about twenty-five or thirty years after Honor's death, and the primary viewpoint characters would have been her children, Raoul and Katherine. Unfortunately—or fortunately, depending upon your viewpoint—Eric Flint screwed up my original timetable when he introduced the character of Victor Cachat and asked me for an enemy which Manticoran and Havenite secret agents could agree to fight as allies, despite the fact that their star nations were at war. I suggested Manpower, which worked very well for Eric's story. But, especially when I incorporated Eric's characters into the mainstream novels, and when Eric and I decided to do Crown of Slaves, it also pulled the entire storyline forward by two or three decades. Which meant I wasn't going to have time to kill Honor off and get her children grown up before the Manpower challenge hit Manticore.
I wasn't precisely heartbroken when I realized I no longer had any choice about granting Honor a reprieve. Not only did I think her fans would be less likely to come looking for me with pitchforks and ropes, but the closer I'd come to actually killing her, the less and less I'd liked the thought myself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 20, 2014, 09:50:24 PM
Just chiming in as I always do when I finish one book and move on to another. About to start The Eagle Has Fallen by Brian Young, about the disappearance of Rome's 9th Legion in Britain.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 20, 2014, 10:20:18 PM
I've been playing a bunch of WOFF, so I decided it was time, once and for all, to figure out what the heck happened in WW1.

Thus, I've started reading A World Undone by G.L. Martin.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 20, 2014, 11:59:36 PM
have you read Castles of Steel?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 21, 2014, 01:00:28 AM
Negative, Ghostrider.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 21, 2014, 02:54:37 AM
thats one of the WW1 classics.  very easy to read and a wealth of information on the naval/political aspect of the war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2014, 08:17:02 AM
Read Dreadnought first, also by Robert Massie. And while you're at it, read his Peter the Great book...two of my all time favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 21, 2014, 08:34:36 AM
Quote from: Gusington on February 21, 2014, 08:17:02 AM
Read Dreadnought first, also by Robert Massie. And while you're at it, read his Peter the Great book...two of my all time favorites.

+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 21, 2014, 05:13:56 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on February 21, 2014, 08:34:36 AM
Quote from: Gusington on February 21, 2014, 08:17:02 AM
Read Dreadnought first, also by Robert Massie. And while you're at it, read his Peter the Great book...two of my all time favorites.

+1

+1+1

That's the way to do it. Dreadnought has a whole lotta WW1 backstory as well as lots of insight into the English and German Naval politics at the turn of the 20th Century.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2014, 08:33:29 PM
Awesome book, Dreadnought. Probably one of my top 10, maybe even top 5.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 08, 2014, 01:30:37 PM
Well, I've begun my "Great Work" at last: 


Having purchased The Gathering Storm, The Towers of Midnight, and A Memory of Light (now that all three are out in paperback), I am rereading the entire Wheel of Time series from beginning to end -- straight. 

I haven't bothered with the math, but I know I have to plow through a minimum of 15,000 pages.  Given how my reading has slowed in the last decade or so, I'm honestly uncertain as to whether I'll get through the entire series before the end of the year -- I probably will, but I'm not about to blithely assume that's going to be the case! 


Pray for me, brothers.  I have a long journey ahead of me... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 08, 2014, 02:12:27 PM
^ Nice!

I burned out on WW1 pretty quickly.  I think I hit about the same point in World Undone that I got to last time when I put the book down and didn't pick it back up!

For my upcoming trip I'm bringing Musashi, A Place Called Armageddon on my Kindle, and that Yom Kippur book posted below, also on my Kindle.  And I also have about 70 other books on my Kindle, but those are the three I'm actually actively reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 08, 2014, 03:25:09 PM
^Even I get burned out on WWI and it's my favorite historical era. I think it's because it gets really depressing sometimes.

I just finished The Eagle Has Fallen by Brian Young which was unfortunately kinda disappointing, told totally from the Roman point of view with bad dialogue and almost no insight into Celtic culture. And it has great reviews on Amazon! I hate that.

Onward and upward...about to start In the Shadow of Empires: The Historic Vlad Dracula by Sir Jens and then Vlad: The Last Confession by CC Humprheys, recommended by Toonces.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on March 08, 2014, 06:04:07 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 08, 2014, 01:30:37 PM
....I am rereading the entire Wheel of Time series from beginning to end -- straight....

Oh my God! That's may be even worse than the guy who claims that George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels are published so far apart that he rereads all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series each time a new book in the series is published.

I'll pray for you, Martok.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 08, 2014, 08:53:26 PM
I always knew there was something a little off about Martok.  Now I know what it is ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: skeptical.platypus on March 08, 2014, 11:01:30 PM
I returned to Lucifer's Hammer after about a decade to get the bad taste of a couple of apocalypse/post-apocalypse failures. Damn, that's a fine novel.

I am currently reading Kim Stanley Robinson's 2312, on rumors that he had returned to Mars form. Can't say for sure. It started really, really slow, but thankfully has gotten more interesting. He does appear to have returned to the vision he's previously shown. I will likely take on his Shaman next; after that I have a handful of nebula and hugo nominees from the past couple of years that I'm not familiar with queued up.

I'm still rather shaken up by Iain Banks' passing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 09, 2014, 08:14:48 AM
I just picked up 'Kursk, Hitler's Gamble 1943' by Walter.S.Dunn. Jr. Not started it yet, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 09, 2014, 08:53:26 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on March 08, 2014, 06:04:07 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 08, 2014, 01:30:37 PM
....I am rereading the entire Wheel of Time series from beginning to end -- straight....

Oh my God! That's may be even worse than the guy who claims that George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels are published so far apart that he rereads all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series each time a new book in the series is published.
Heh.  In fact, that's kind of why I'm rereading the entire WoT series.  I would reread it whenever a new novel was released -- I pretty much had to, as so much had transpired in the previous novels that I would've been hopelessly lost if I had simply jumped into the newest book "cold". 

However, getting through books 7-10 really wore me down.  Mercifully, Knife of Dreams was released in paperback soon enough after I finished book 10 that I didn't have to reread the series yet again (and even more mercifully, KoD moved quickly and wasn't a slog).  However, by that point, I had already decided I wasn't going to reread the series for the umpteenth time unless & until it was actually finished.  And since all the other books I owned were the paperback edition -- and I'm OCD :P -- I refused to buy the Sanderson novels until they were available in paperback as well. 

What this boils down to is that I didn't purchase/read Knife of Dreams (book 11) until early 2007.  Therefore, given the aforementioned stipulations I'd forced myself to adhere to, it's now been a full seven years since I last read WoT.  And given the large cast of characters and absurd number of interweaving storylines, I knew I was going to have no choice but to start at the beginning again.  ::) 



Quote from: Greybriar on March 08, 2014, 06:04:07 PM
I'll pray for you, Martok.
LOL!  Thanks Greybriar.  I could probably use the help.  ;) 




Quote from: MetalDog on March 08, 2014, 08:53:26 PM
I always knew there was something a little off about Martok.  Now I know what it is ;)
A lifelong fascination with musical theater?  ;D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 09, 2014, 10:27:46 AM
^Give my regards to Broadway.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on March 09, 2014, 11:03:42 AM
Finally finished Hugh Thomas' tome on the Spanish Civil War (http://www.amazon.com/The-Spanish-Civil-War-Paperbacks/dp/0375755152/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1394381003&sr=8-1&keywords=hugh+thomas+spanish+civil+war).

A very good read with exceptional details on the politics of the conflict and behind the front lines.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 09, 2014, 12:59:46 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on March 08, 2014, 06:04:07 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 08, 2014, 01:30:37 PM
....I am rereading the entire Wheel of Time series from beginning to end -- straight....

Oh my God! That's may be even worse than the guy who claims that George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels are published so far apart that he rereads all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series each time a new book in the series is published.

I'll pray for you, Martok.

Ha! I've got a friend who re-read the entire Wheel of Time series every time a new book came out. He's just a bit of a fan...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 09, 2014, 04:05:41 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on March 09, 2014, 12:59:46 PM
Ha! I've got a friend who re-read the entire Wheel of Time series every time a new book came out. He's just a bit of a fan...
If he did that for when books 7-10 were released as well (especially Winter's Heart and Crossroads of Twilight -- dear gods, those two took forever to get through), then I'm afraid he may have crossed the line from "fan" to "masochist".  :P 

Don't get me wrong:  I truly do love the series, warts and all, and books 1-6 plus 11 (Knife of Dreams) are a joy to read.  But to reread the series just for books 7-10 simply isn't worth it -- not by themselves.  You only read those four books so that you can get to books 11-14 (as I am now).  Would that I could travel into the past and warn myself of that...  ::) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Arctic Blast on March 09, 2014, 07:56:26 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 09, 2014, 04:05:41 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on March 09, 2014, 12:59:46 PM
Ha! I've got a friend who re-read the entire Wheel of Time series every time a new book came out. He's just a bit of a fan...
If he did that for when books 7-10 were released as well (especially Winter's Heart and Crossroads of Twilight -- dear gods, those two took forever to get through), then I'm afraid he may have crossed the line from "fan" to "masochist".  :P 

Don't get me wrong:  I truly do love the series, warts and all, and books 1-6 plus 11 (Knife of Dreams) are a joy to read.  But to reread the series just for books 7-10 simply isn't worth it -- not by themselves.  You only read those four books so that you can get to books 11-14 (as I am now).  Would that I could travel into the past and warn myself of that...  ::)

Yep, that's exactly what he did. So when book 14 came out, he re-read 1-13 first.

He's kind of insane.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on March 09, 2014, 09:37:43 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 20, 2014, 09:50:24 PM
Just chiming in as I always do when I finish one book and move on to another. About to start The Eagle Has Fallen by Brian Young, about the disappearance of Rome's 9th Legion in Britain.

There was a movie about that. Guy goes across England and Scotland to find the eagle, then fights his way back to the Roman frontier.

The Eagle
201114A1hr 54m

Average of 559,228 ratings:                            3.6 stars


Haunted by the disappearance of his father, who vanished with the Roman Ninth Legion on an expedition into the north of Britain, centurion Marcus Aquila sets out to unravel the mystery and recover the legion's eagle standard.

http://movies.netflix.com/WiMovie/The_Eagle/70130141?sod=search-autocomplete (http://movies.netflix.com/WiMovie/The_Eagle/70130141?sod=search-autocomplete)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 10, 2014, 08:05:54 AM
Thanks! I know what I'll be doing later.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 10, 2014, 10:58:52 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on March 08, 2014, 06:04:07 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 08, 2014, 01:30:37 PM
....I am rereading the entire Wheel of Time series from beginning to end -- straight....

Oh my God! That's may be even worse than the guy who claims that George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels are published so far apart that he rereads all the books in the A Song of Ice and Fire series each time a new book in the series is published.

I'll pray for you, Martok.


Heh, I did the same thing myself last year; there are reports waaaay back upthread for my impressions on the 'slog' as I reached those books again, and then for the unread books as I reached them. (Thus inspiring Martok to put room on his schedule for the remaining books himself.)


Martok, for what it's worth I can 100% guarantee that despite the nods to LotR in the first book, Sanderson and/or RJ doesn't pull out any giant spiders toward the end. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 10, 2014, 01:24:39 PM
Quote from: Arctic Blast on March 09, 2014, 07:56:26 PM

Yep, that's exactly what he did. So when book 14 came out, he re-read 1-13 first.

He's kind of insane.
LOL!  Well I'm a little nuts too.  :P 

That being, said, I wouldn't bother rereading the first eleven books again if I had a better memory for all the details in them.  For better or worse, though, I *don't* have a better memory, and so I must go back and start from the beginning; I'd be hopelessly lost otherwise, and well do I know it! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 10, 2014, 07:53:45 PM
Shadow of Empires: The Historic Vlad Dracula by Sir Jens also not so good. It's more like a pamphlet written by non native English speaker :/ and took me a day and a half to read, which is lightning speed for me. If anyone is remotely interested please don't buy it, I will ship it to you.

Going to try Stoker's Manuscript by Royce Prouty before the Vlad: Last Confessions book by CC Humphreys.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: skeptical.platypus on March 10, 2014, 09:12:23 PM
Under a Graveyard Sky is flat out bad. The overall plot has some wings, which keeps you aloft through the first quarter; possibly through the fall of NYC, but the latter half is composed almost entirely of boat clearing. This is not particularly interesting after the first, and setting up a series of small clearings that seem to exist only to remind readers that bullets ricochet does not lead to a climax when a much bigger boat should be cleared.

Hands down the worst part is the characterization. There isn't any. The characters are nothing more than archetypes of Hyper Competence nicely carved out so there is something sort of to do for each family member, although it's unclear now that the wife even exists. She may be mentioned after NYC, I don't recall. There may be one entire genuine moment for the characters in the whole novel -- when the Hyper Competent Combat Daughter is pissed off that the Hyper Competent Scientist Daughter is mistaken for being the zombie killer.

The true protagonist is the Hyper Competent Combat Daughter, and unfortunately, Ringo forces her to have two types of interactions -- with zombies, and with adult males who are invariable surprised, doubtful, and then gushing because of her competence. We are supposed to be amused with this about every 50 pages or so. It's a mildly interesting gag when she complains about not wearing enough body armor and weapons when the family first travels through NYC. It's already boring as hell when we have to wade through the inevitable security check where she produces one weapon after another to everyone's surprise. But wait -- it's original! This time it's a teenaged girl!

By the time we get to the description of the sub coxswain rolling on the deck laughing (iirc, literally) at the HCC daughter saying mean things to zombies while shooting them, and telling his captain, "you have to hear this," Ringo has passed "lazy," collected his $200, and gone straight to insulting his audience's intelligence.

Finally, the combat is dreary, and perhaps even less fleshed out than the characters. Ringo obviously had a few set pieces in mind -- these are the only scenes in the novel that have any color and depth. The Last Concert is NYC is an example of this. However, the combat after is literally just a series of "You take the left, I'm on the right." "Reloading!" comments, with tactical descriptions like, there were too many zombies in that direction, so they kept moving the other, and various ways of mentioning that the zombies kept coming from unpredictable directions.

This is carried out throughout the novel. Very very little tension. No tactical overview beyond "boats have narrow passageways." Zombies come when you make noise, but sometimes they are slow, so you wait after you've killed a few. Descriptions of engagements that go little beyond "she shot one, and then another one when it came around a corner." There is some talk about personal weaponry, armaments, and ammo, but I can't imagine enough even for fetishists.

If this is anything remotely like his other works, Ringo is not an author I'm interested in reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 11, 2014, 10:31:50 AM
So I'm now a dozen or so chapters into the first WoT novel, Eye of the World.   I have to admit that while I'm aware some folks really struggle with it -- the most common critique is they find the pacing to be rather glacial -- I'm just not having that problem myself (happily!).  Maybe I'm just a sucker for good world-building (which IMO this book does in spades). 




Quote from: JasonPratt on March 10, 2014, 10:58:52 AM
Martok, for what it's worth I can 100% guarantee that despite the nods to LotR in the first book, Sanderson and/or RJ doesn't pull out any giant spiders toward the end. :)
I can't tell you how relieved that makes me.  8) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 11, 2014, 06:37:45 PM
Martok, my frustration with WoT is definitiely the glacial pacing.  Having said that, I didn't mind the first four or five books.  I was interested in the characters, the plot, the world, all of it.  I just figured he would pick up the pace eventually.  Then I got to book 8 and then 9 and if anything, it just got worse.  That's when I said, "Fuc* it!  I'm out."  I certainly wish you good luck in getting through all 1400 books.  AND retaining your sanity ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 11, 2014, 07:45:13 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on March 11, 2014, 06:37:45 PM
Martok, my frustration with WoT is definitiely the glacial pacing.  Having said that, I didn't mind the first four or five books.  I was interested in the characters, the plot, the world, all of it.  I just figured he would pick up the pace eventually.  Then I got to book 8 and then 9 and if anything, it just got worse.  That's when I said, "Fuc* it!  I'm out."  I certainly wish you good luck in getting through all 1400 books.  AND retaining your sanity ;)
Heh, thanks.  :) 

I certainly don't blame you for giving up when you did.  I actually found the pacing in books 7 & 8 (Crown of Swords and Path of Daggers) to be tolerable enough, but it's not hard to see why it was too much for a lot of folks. 

In contrast,  Winter's Heart and Crossroads of Twilight are indeed absolutely tedious.  It was only the knowledge that Knife of Dreams picked up the pace again (and pretty dramatically so) that gave me the impetus to keep on slogging through to the other side.  Personally, I believe only the most hardcore/masochistic fans could be said to truly enjoy those two.  ::) 


I can honestly say that I feel KoD is worth getting to.  However, it's difficult to truly believe that when you're in the midst of the almost-brutal slog of WH and CoT one must endure to make it to that point. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 11, 2014, 10:17:12 PM
Im still slogging through Mirths diary.
My God the mans fixation with soy beans knows no bounds.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 12, 2014, 07:53:27 AM
Martok,

Seeing as how I haven't yet condensed books 6-8 and 9-10 into two books (which from some early experiments trimming Lord of Chaos I think could be very feasibly done without losing any meat and even keeping some fat), may I suggest Leigh Butler's WOT catchup notes at Tor.com when you get to WH and CoT?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 15, 2014, 02:01:14 PM
I finished A Place Called Armageddon during my trip last week.  That book was fantastic- I highly recommend it.  I enjoyed it more than Vlad, although Vlad was quite good as well.

Also, Lucifer's Hammer was great.  I read that about 6 years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on March 17, 2014, 03:16:57 AM
I am currently reading Black Jack Logan by Gary Ecelbarger.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 21, 2014, 07:03:03 AM
My sojourn through The Wheel of Time continues.  I finished The Eye of the World earlier this morning, and have now begun The Great Hunt

Right now, I'm predicting it will take me around 30 weeks to read the entire series.  It wouldn't take so long if I were able to maintain my current pace, but I know things are going to slow down significantly once I hit books 7-8 (and especially 9-10). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 21, 2014, 09:23:14 PM
Just about to start The Sino-French Naval War (1884-1885) by Piotr Olender.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 22, 2014, 02:29:47 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 21, 2014, 09:23:14 PM
Just about to start The Sino-French Naval War (1884-1885) by Piotr Olender.

That's pretty...specialized there, Gus.  I knew Europe & the U.S. dabbled in China.  Hadn't realized 1) that China had a navy with which to carry on a campaign against the French and 2) that anyone would be that specific in their desire to research that or 3) that anyone ELSE would buy it!  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 22, 2014, 04:27:28 AM
one sees the world differently when you 3 feet tall.  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 22, 2014, 09:47:56 AM
^3' 1" with heels.

Late 19th century has always been one of my favorite eras. Sino-French may be a little misleading. What this book is really about is France's entry into Vietnam.

And the Chinese were not totally pathetic until the 20th century, after the late 1890s when the Japanese schooled them in modern naval tech.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 22, 2014, 10:23:26 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 22, 2014, 09:47:56 AM
^3' 1" with heels.

Late 19th century has always been one of my favorite eras. Sino-French may be a little misleading. What this book is really about is France's entry into Vietnam.

And the Chinese were not totally pathetic until the 20th century, after the late 1890s when the Japanese schooled them in modern naval tech.

What dim knowledge of that time and place that resides in memory concurs with that statement.  I just hadn't remembered any mention of a Chinese fleet.  Then again, I am hopelessly lost about all things naval or air.  Neither holds any interest for me.  (Must be why I am shite in those areas in any game I play that models them.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 22, 2014, 10:34:25 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on March 22, 2014, 10:23:26 AM
Then again, I am hopelessly lost about all things naval or air.  Neither holds any interest for me. 

???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 22, 2014, 10:38:49 AM
Vietnam: A History by Stanley Karnow

Gus, in you have not already read it, then I recommend this.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 22, 2014, 11:11:35 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on March 22, 2014, 10:34:25 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on March 22, 2014, 10:23:26 AM
Then again, I am hopelessly lost about all things naval or air.  Neither holds any interest for me. 

???

It has always been easier for me to grasp land maneuvers and tactics.  Once you start explaining them for the other elements, my eyes just glaze over.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 22, 2014, 08:38:41 PM
Thanks Bawb. I have an interest in Vietnam but haven't read anything on it since I was a kid. Have this in my shopping cart right now - Embers of War by Fredrik Logevall:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375756477/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 23, 2014, 09:42:41 AM
I would also say that a good one to add to your list is 'The Last Valley' by Martin Windrow, its an excellent book on the subject, plus the books by Bernard Fall.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on March 23, 2014, 09:45:36 AM
This one will take a while:

Stalin: The First In-depth Biography Based on Explosive New Documents from Russia's Secret Archives, by Edvard Radzinsky

http://www.amazon.com/Stalin--depth-Biography-Explosive-Documents/dp/0385479549/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1395585418&sr=1-2&keywords=stalin (http://www.amazon.com/Stalin--depth-Biography-Explosive-Documents/dp/0385479549/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1395585418&sr=1-2&keywords=stalin)


Thoroughly enjoyed this series:
http://www.amazon.com/Last-Lion-Churchill-Defender-1940-1965/dp/0345548639/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1395585880&sr=1-1&keywords=the+last+lion
(http://www.amazon.com/Last-Lion-Churchill-Defender-1940-1965/dp/0345548639/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1395585880&sr=1-1&keywords=the+last+lion)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 23, 2014, 10:11:36 AM
^I've got the first book of The Last Lion in my queue. Stalin book sounds pretty deep too.

Thanks for the above too Bawb...I am about to pull the trigger on the Embers of War book, and three others. This spring will be all about Asian reading and gaming for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on March 23, 2014, 11:45:21 AM
Just finished three at once and left with a reading vacuum

Storm birds was brilliant, can't wait for more

Malice was great too

And just coming upto the end of dominion..... a great 1950s alternate history story with Britain been a puppet state of Germany after surrendering at dunkirk..... the US never got involved and adlai Stevenson replaced Roosevelt

Bob has pointed me toward Cornwell books that coincide with my ck2 game so I'll be all over them
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 23, 2014, 01:10:31 PM
I didn't care for The Last Valley at all.  I tried twice to finish it but it just bogs way down and I hit the wall halfway through.  I prefer Bernhard Shaw's book much better (Hell in a Very Small Place).

I also didn't care for Karnow's Vietnam book (sorry Bob!).  The first half of the book, from what I remember, is pre-U.S. involvement.  Now, if that's what you're looking for then it's a good book.  If you're looking for a Vietnam book that is more U.S.-centric then I recommend John Prados' book Vietnam.  I really enjoyed that a lot.

I've had a lot of trouble finding books on Vietnam that keep me entertained. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 23, 2014, 02:21:15 PM
Yeah, I recommended the Karnow book because it does indeed give quite a lot of info about the origins of Vietnam and the French involvement in Indo-China, as I think it was that period that Gussy was looking for.

I have a much-read copy of 'Hell in a Very Small Place' by Bernard Fall, and it is a very informative and harrowing account of the event, and, to my mind, a better book than either that by Jules Roy or Howard.R.Simpson. 'Street without Joy' also gives some good accounts of French operations, including the destruction of Mobile Group 100.

Bernard Fall spent a lot of time in Vietnam during that period, and was actually killed there by a land mine.

Last Valley can be a bit hard going in places, but its an interesting book as its comparatively new and thus includes some material that was not available to earlier authors on the subject.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 23, 2014, 03:30:52 PM
Yep I was looking for a pre-US Vietnam book. If anyone has any that go WAY back, like to the 19th century, let me know, as I just finished the Sino French War book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 23, 2014, 06:09:31 PM
Doh, I can't believe I said Bernhard Shaw instead of Fall!  I chalk it up to not enough coffee.

Gus, sounds like Karnow's book might be the call for you then.  The bulk of it concentrates on pre-U.S. involvement.  You can probably pick it up used for a buck or less...yep, you can...: http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0670746045/sr=1-2/qid=1395616095/ref=olp_page_next?ie=UTF8&colid=&coliid=&condition=used&me=&qid=1395616095&shipPromoFilter=0&sort=sip&sr=1-2&startIndex=20

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 23, 2014, 07:44:22 PM
Looking at it right now, thanks.

For what it's worth, Embers of War got a Pulitzer...sounds like an updated version of Karnow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 31, 2014, 02:25:01 PM
Now reading Bismarck's Wars 1860 - 1867 by Bruce Basset Powell.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on April 05, 2014, 08:55:58 AM
I am currently reading Genellan - Planetfall by Scott Gier, which is part of the free Baen library. Great space opera and first contact story! There are 3 more books in the series, all available from Smashwords for a very reasonable $5 each. Here is the link  for Planetfall if anyone is interested in checking it out.

http://www.baenebooks.com/p-762-genellan-planetfall.aspx (http://www.baenebooks.com/p-762-genellan-planetfall.aspx)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 05, 2014, 10:37:05 AM
I've been staying away from electronic pleasures lately (read: computer, you pervs). I just finished reading Cornelius Ryan's The Last Battle cover-to-cover in a week; hadn't read it in a while. Think I might try to re-read Antony Beevor's The Fall Of Berlin, 1945 here soon. Also want to try reading Sons Of The Reich, The II SS Panzer Corps.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on April 07, 2014, 03:25:34 PM
I've reread the Mike Resnik Science Fiction Trilogy:
Soothsayer
Oracle
Prophet
Promised the wife that I would replace musty books with Kindle when I wanted to reread something.  So I'm giving the paperbacks to a fellow reader.

I'm now starting on the Widowmaker Trilogy also by Mike Resnik and replacing those on Kindle.

Allergies really suck.  Those paperbacks range back to 20+ years old and they make me ill to read now.  Kindle does not suffer from paper deterioration.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 07, 2014, 05:47:00 PM
Quote from: airboy on April 07, 2014, 03:25:34 PM
I've reread the Mike Resnik Science Fiction Trilogy:
Soothsayer
Oracle
Prophet
Promised the wife that I would replace musty books with Kindle when I wanted to reread something.  So I'm giving the paperbacks to a fellow reader.

I'm now starting on the Widowmaker Trilogy also by Mike Resnik and replacing those on Kindle.

Allergies really suck.  Those paperbacks range back to 20+ years old and they make me ill to read now.  Kindle does not suffer from paper deterioration.

Is there a book titled 'Santiago' that fits in with one of those series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on April 07, 2014, 07:42:28 PM
Santiago is one of his best books.  Same universe, but different decade.  None of the characters overlap.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 07, 2014, 07:47:04 PM
Just started reading The Military Genius of George Washington by Dave Richard Palmer, got a copy when I visited Mt. Vernon @ Christmas time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on April 07, 2014, 09:58:58 PM
I'm enjoying my marathon reread of the HH series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 09, 2014, 08:08:55 AM
Am halfway through The Dragon Reborn.  Whatever one may say of some of the later books in the WoT series, there's no question that at least the earlier ones move at a good clip. 

Also, it's fun remember/rediscovering what I've forgotten!  :D 




Quote from: GDS_Starfury on April 07, 2014, 09:58:58 PM
I'm enjoying my marathon reread of the HH series.
Horatio Hornblower or Honor Harrington? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on April 09, 2014, 08:25:02 AM
Harrington.
I'm bitter over there not only being any video game but his legal teams squashing of any mod work.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 10, 2014, 02:26:19 AM
I am currently reading To Rule the Waves by Arthur Herman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 10, 2014, 07:49:06 AM
I have that book, Greybriar. Navies of WWI, right? It's on my to read shelf. How is it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 10, 2014, 08:23:09 AM
Quote from: Martok on April 09, 2014, 08:08:55 AM
Am halfway through The Dragon Reborn.  Whatever one may say of some of the later books in the WoT series, there's no question that at least the earlier ones move at a good clip. 

Also, it's fun remember/rediscovering what I've forgotten!  :D 

You're moving along at a good clip, too! -- although I did come to realize during my re-read last year that if I stuck to a disciplined schedule I could put away three books a month.

My dad finally made it through the slog a few weeks ago, and finished Knife of Dreams the other day, so he' well into the downhill slope. Or uphill to the peak from the swamp. Whichever metaphor works best. It's all new to him; he'd never read a single one of them before.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 11, 2014, 07:53:35 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 10, 2014, 07:49:06 AM
I have that book, Greybriar. Navies of WWI, right? It's on my to read shelf. How is it?

To Rule the Waves (http://www.nytimes.com/2004/12/15/books/15grim.html?_r=0) may include WWI, but so far I've read the first 80 pages and it's mostly about events in the 16th century. There's still about 500 pages to go though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 11, 2014, 09:53:11 AM
Gah I got it confused with To Crown the Waves...nevermind!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on April 11, 2014, 10:02:47 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 10, 2014, 08:23:09 AM
... he'd never read a single one of them before.

I wish I'd never read a single one of them before. To start the completed GoT series from scratch would have been truly epic. Instead, I grabbed the first 3 books from The University of PA bookstore in the early 90's when I was locked out of my apartment for a few hours. "Oh look, a new trilogy!" I said to myself. After getting close to the end of book 3, I realized that the story didn't appear to be close to concluding.

Whenever a new book was due out, I'd reread the previous ones in preparation. I quit rereading the entire series around book 5 and just read the previous 1 or 2. Around book 9, I got tired of the multi-year wait between volumes and quit reading them all together. I still collected them, though, in anticipation of doing the entire series at once. I just need to get the last 3 books in paperback and I'll do just that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 12, 2014, 08:04:18 PM
"John Adams famously stated: "Democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself.There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide." America today faces one of the greatest[/font][/font]threats which have arisen since this nation's founding – the unsustainable spending of our own government.[/font][/font]Sooner rather than later, this nation's "debt bomb" will go off. In fact, if we don't change course in the next[/font][/font]two or three years, the America of the future will only be a hollow shell of its former self."[/font][/font]
http://www.capitolreader.com/2011sum/041512-debt-bomb.pdf (http://www.capitolreader.com/2011sum/041512-debt-bomb.pdf)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 12, 2014, 10:18:34 PM
That's pretty scary, Biggs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 13, 2014, 07:07:25 AM
^John Adams only said the first 2 sentences. ("Democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself.There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide.")The rest is from the author of the pdf.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 13, 2014, 07:36:22 AM
Started Through Struggle the Stars. Pretty good scifi.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dolan50 on April 13, 2014, 10:57:33 AM
QuoteJohn Adams only said the first 2 sentences. ("Democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself.There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide.")The rest is from the author of the pdf.

And has been pointed out earlier by Brant, we aren't a Democracy but a Republic.

                               Democracy or a Republic

"How often do we hear the claim that our nation is a democracy?  Was a democratic form of government the vision of the founders?  As it turns out, the word democracy appears nowhere in the two most fundamental founding documents of our nation – the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.  Instead of a democracy, the Constitution's Article IV, Section 4, declares "The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union a Republican Form of Government, . . . ."  Our pledge of allegiance to the flag says not to "the democracy for which it stands" but to "the republic for which it stands."  Is the song that emerged during the War of 1861 "The Battle Hymn of the Democracy" or "The Battle Hymn of the Republic"?

So what is the difference between republican and democratic forms of government?  John Adams captured the essence of the difference when he said, "You have rights antecedent to all earthly governments; rights that cannot be repealed or restrained by human laws; rights derived from the Great Legislator of the Universe." Nothing in our Constitution suggests that government is a grantor of rights.  Instead, government is envisioned as a protector of rights."

http://econfaculty.gmu.edu/wew/articles/fee/democracy.htm
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 13, 2014, 11:53:36 AM
Through most of history the words have been the same. It is only in recent times that people have tried to re-define distinctions between them.
Democracy is from the Greek language.
Republic is from Latin that the Romans used. It was a translation of the Greek.

Any country with government elected by the people is a democracy. Commonwealth countries have a parliament. Republics traditionally have a Senate. Same diff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 13, 2014, 12:01:47 PM
If you are going to quote an article use the whole relevant bit.

"So what is the difference between republican and democratic forms of government?  John Adams captured the essence of the difference when he said, "You have rights antecedent to all earthly governments; rights that cannot be repealed or restrained by human laws; rights derived from the Great Legislator of the Universe." Nothing in our Constitution suggests that government is a grantor of rights.  Instead, government is envisioned as a protector of rights.
In recognition that it is government that poses the gravest threat to our liberties, the framers used negative phrases in reference to Congress throughout the first ten amendments to the Constitution such as shall not: abridge, infringe, deny, disparage, and shall not be violated, nor be denied.  In a republican form of government, there is rule of law.  All citizens, including government officials, are accountable to the same laws.  Government power is limited and decentralized through a system of checks and balances. Government intervenes in civil society to protect its citizens against force and fraud but does not intervene in the cases of peaceable, voluntary exchange.
Contrast the framers' vision of a republic with that of a democracy.  According to Webster's Dictionary, a democracy is defined as "government by the people; especially: rule of the majority."  In a democracy, the majority rules either directly or through its elected representatives.  As in a monarchy, the law is whatever the government determines it to be.  Laws do not represent reason.  They represent power.  The restraint is upon the individual instead of government.  Unlike that envisioned under a republican form of government, rights are seen as privileges and permissions that are granted by government and can be rescinded by government."


Basically this arguement is bullshit. 'Our framers used negative language so that is how Republic is different.' The word has been around for centuries before the US experiment. Only a twit accepts the US did this so that must be the definition. What is this, some student paper you are quoting?

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on April 25, 2014, 09:25:34 PM
Just got done reading 'The United States of Vinland; The Landing'.  It's an alternate history on what would have happened if the Vikings had successfully colonized the North America starting 500 years before Columbus.

It's a short book, 198 pages total, but only costs $3.99 on both Amazon and B&N. 

Writing style is a little rough and kind of repetitive at times, but if your looking for something different, short, and quick I would highly recommended.  I purchased on Tuesday, and finished today (Friday), and I'm not a particularly fast reader. 

The author has a web site, theunitedstatesofvinland (http://theunitedstatesofvinland).  There you can find a good chunk of the first chapter.  You can also find an into to another book in a different series that he called Fall of Ossard.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: skeptical.platypus on April 26, 2014, 09:54:34 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on April 13, 2014, 07:36:22 AM
Started Through Struggle the Stars. Pretty good scifi.

Sci-fi, $2.99 on kindle, and a grogheads rec. Good enough for me! I'm ready for some new military sci-fi, too.

Thanks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: skeptical.platypus on April 26, 2014, 09:55:58 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on April 25, 2014, 09:25:34 PM
Just got done reading 'The United States of Vinland; The Landing'.  It's an alternate history on what would have happened if the Vikings had successfully colonized the North America starting 500 years before Columbus.

It's a short book, 198 pages total, but only costs $3.99 on both Amazon and B&N. 

Writing style is a little rough and kind of repetitive at times, but if your looking for something different, short, and quick I would highly recommended.  I purchased on Tuesday, and finished today (Friday), and I'm not a particularly fast reader. 

The author has a web site, theunitedstatesofvinland (http://theunitedstatesofvinland).  There you can find a good chunk of the first chapter.  You can also find an into to another book in a different series that he called Fall of Ossard.

I hope there's still a Lake Wobegone with pre-Columbus vikings!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 27, 2014, 06:17:46 AM
Quote from: skeptical.platypus on April 26, 2014, 09:54:34 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on April 13, 2014, 07:36:22 AM
Started Through Struggle the Stars. Pretty good scifi.

Sci-fi, $2.99 on kindle, and a grogheads rec. Good enough for me! I'm ready for some new military sci-fi, too.

Thanks!

I read that a while back- it was a nice read since the political situation was familiar though set in the near future. Supposedly the sci elements are reasonably plausible as well. There is a sequel out which I have on kindle but still need to read.

Eric Flint and Ryk Spoor have a fun series about everything from Paleontology to First contact to space travel. It starts with 'Boundary' and continues on through two more books.

Here's the Baen page for Boundary if you want to read the first chapter. (http://www.baenebooks.com/chapters/1416509321/1416509321.htm?blurb&__utma=222178315.1442630587.1398596950.1398596950.1398596950.1&__utmb=222178315.1.10.1398596950&__utmc=222178315&__utmx=-&__utmz=222178315.1398596950.1.1.utmcsr=google%7Cutmccn=(organic)%7Cutmcmd=organic%7Cutmctr=(not%20provided)&__utmv=-&__utmk=172613792)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 28, 2014, 09:02:04 AM
Just started reading City of Fortune - How Venice Ruled the Seas - by Roger Crowley.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 28, 2014, 02:06:39 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 28, 2014, 09:02:04 AM
Just started reading City of Fortune - How Venice Ruled the Seas - by Roger Crowley.

I read 1453 and Empires of the Sea by Crowley, both amazing, especially Empires. I'd love to know if City of Fortune is up to the same standard.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 28, 2014, 04:23:42 PM
I read Empires of the Sea and loved that one too. Want to read 1453 but I have read a lot on that era and subject so I have held off. I'll definitely post back impressions on City of Fortune.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on May 02, 2014, 01:36:21 PM
Quote from: skeptical.platypus on April 26, 2014, 09:54:34 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on April 13, 2014, 07:36:22 AM
Started Through Struggle the Stars. Pretty good scifi.

Sci-fi, $2.99 on kindle, and a grogheads rec. Good enough for me! I'm ready for some new military sci-fi, too.

Thanks!

Second book in The Human Reach series The Desert of Stars is out and well worth $4.99. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 02, 2014, 02:28:36 PM
Who has read Douglas Porch - Counterinsurgency ?

Just started it. The preface is brutal.

"My argument continues to be that what has long been called small war in its various reiterations as imperial policing or COIN (counterinsurgency operations) does not constitute a specialized category of warfare. Rather , it consists of the application of petty war tactics that its advocates since the 1840s have puffed as infallible prescriptions for effortless conquest, nation-building , and national grandeur. Small wars enthusiasts basically reject the Clausewitzian character of war in favor of a Jominian tactical and operational approach, in large part to evade democratic civilian control. Claims in doctrine for success in small wars, at least at a reasonable strategic, financial, and moral cost, have relied on mythologized versions of the past too often supported by shoddy research and flawed, selective analysis of cases. History cooked as COIN folklore can lead to people getting killed because it fails to convey that each insurgency is a contingent event in which doctrine, operations, and tactics must support a viable policy and strategy, not the other way around."

Porch, Douglas (2013-06-30). Counterinsurgency . Cambridge University Press. Kindle Edition.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 03, 2014, 10:32:50 AM
My sojourn through The Wheel of Time continues.  Am now just over a hundred pages into The Fires of Heaven

I'd forgotten just how funny these books are.  Elayne getting drunk for the first time was even more hilarious than I remembered.  :D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on May 03, 2014, 10:45:07 AM
I loaded up the cd and spent the last 2 weeks grinding through the whole Honor Harrington series again.  why isnt this a video game yet?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 03, 2014, 10:53:02 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on May 03, 2014, 10:45:07 AM
I loaded up the cd and spent the last 2 weeks grinding through the whole Honor Harrington series again.  why isnt this a video game yet?

IIRC, Weber has strong misgivings about films and video games cheesing up the Honorverse.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 03, 2014, 10:56:25 AM
And on that note, lets revive the 'who should play Honor, etc, in the Feature Film?' discussion.

Michelle Forbes is a bit too old now, considering Honor has benefitted from Prolong treatments.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on May 03, 2014, 11:01:25 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on May 03, 2014, 10:53:02 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on May 03, 2014, 10:45:07 AM
I loaded up the cd and spent the last 2 weeks grinding through the whole Honor Harrington series again.  why isnt this a video game yet?

IIRC, Weber has strong misgivings about films and video games cheesing up the Honorverse.

one of the things Ive taken away from this marathon session is that hes cheesed up the series enough on his own.
while I could see a tv series I would prefer a HW styled game based on this universe.  the fucker actually shut down a HW mod team that was working on that very thing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on May 03, 2014, 11:04:52 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on May 03, 2014, 10:56:25 AM
And on that note, lets revive the 'who should play Honor, etc, in the Feature Film?' discussion.

Michelle Forbes is a bit too old now, considering Honor has benefitted from Prolong treatments.

is it that time of year already?  lol
Forbes would have been great though.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.tvgcdn.net%2FMediaBin%2FGalleries%2FShows%2FA_F%2FBa_Bh%2FBattlestarGalactica%2Fcrops%2FBattlestar-Michelle-Forbes1.jpg&hash=d5af62eb8f244ae9287b19938f831e743d4ae06d)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on May 03, 2014, 11:09:37 AM
a short haired Emma Watson?

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.moviestarspicture.com%2Fphotos%2Femma-watson-photoshoot%2Femma-watson-short-hair-emma-watson-haircut.jpg&hash=e4001413ad9c10fd03e21d5ced53a3eff49816c9)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 03, 2014, 11:19:15 AM
^  Not the worst choice in the world.  I've always been under the impression Honor possesses distinctly Oriental facial features (thanks to her mother), but if one were to go with a Caucasian actress, I'd be okay with her. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on May 03, 2014, 11:20:31 AM
just almond shaped eyes and high cheekbones.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 03, 2014, 12:44:02 PM
AFA some of the others- Ron Perlman would make a great Anton Zilwicki. He'd have to buff up a little though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on May 05, 2014, 03:29:01 PM
Finished Herbert A. Werner's "Iron Coffins". What a great book!

Just about to start Guy Sajer's  "The Forgotten Soldier".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on May 05, 2014, 06:34:18 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on May 02, 2014, 01:36:21 PM
Quote from: skeptical.platypus on April 26, 2014, 09:54:34 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on April 13, 2014, 07:36:22 AM
Started Through Struggle the Stars. Pretty good scifi.

Sci-fi, $2.99 on kindle, and a grogheads rec. Good enough for me! I'm ready for some new military sci-fi, too.

Thanks!

Second book in The Human Reach series The Desert of Stars is out and well worth $4.99. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

Just finished The Desert of Stars.  Better than the first book.  Still rough on the writing, but better. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 05, 2014, 07:17:07 PM
Are the science and politics still plausible enough?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 05, 2014, 09:14:59 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on May 05, 2014, 06:34:18 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on May 02, 2014, 01:36:21 PM
Quote from: skeptical.platypus on April 26, 2014, 09:54:34 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on April 13, 2014, 07:36:22 AM
Started Through Struggle the Stars. Pretty good scifi.

Sci-fi, $2.99 on kindle, and a grogheads rec. Good enough for me! I'm ready for some new military sci-fi, too.

Thanks!

Second book in The Human Reach series The Desert of Stars is out and well worth $4.99. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

Just finished The Desert of Stars.  Better than the first book.  Still rough on the writing, but better.

Just finished Through Struggle the Stars. Really good. Starting The Desert is Stars Tonight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on May 06, 2014, 07:40:45 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on May 05, 2014, 07:17:07 PM
Are the science and politics still plausible enough?

I'm not an expert on the science, but it seems very plausible.

For the politics, Japan and US are the inept evil aggressors, EU, Russia and India are neutral and China and Korea the the victims.  Up, seems about right   ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 10, 2014, 01:45:24 PM
@Airborne Rifles - City of Fortune is excellent. Very detailed and well written. I am about 1/3 of the way through.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 10, 2014, 06:38:36 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 10, 2014, 01:45:24 PM
@Airborne Rifles - City of Fortune is excellent. Very detailed and well written. I am about 1/3 of the way through.

Awesome, thanks. I'll probably pull the trigger on it on kindle here soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 10, 2014, 08:05:37 PM
Just make sure you don't try to read it at bedtime...it's kinda heavy for just before bed and after some hard days at work I couldn't make it past a couple of pages. With some time this weekend I was able to get further and see that the first part (Venice' seizing hegemony from Byzantium in the Fourth Crusade)...is just epic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 11, 2014, 08:40:57 AM
I finally finished Tokyo Vice: An American Reporter on the Police Beat in Japan. Great book although it took me almost a year to get through it. I've always been fascinated by writers detailing their experiences in other cultures, and this book delivers well, not just with that perspective but also tugs at the heartstrings considering some of the things this guy and his family went through thanks to the yakuza.

Now I've (finally) started reading Tales From Development Hell: The Greatest Movies Never Made. I enjoy the behind-the-scenes perspectives in movie-making, especially when they rip the morons that run the studios. This book is a great example of that.

As an aside: anyone remember the movie Manos: The Hands of Fate, by chance?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 11, 2014, 11:12:05 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on May 11, 2014, 08:40:57 AMNow I've (finally) started reading Tales From Development Hell: The Greatest Movies Never Made. I enjoy the behind-the-scenes perspectives in movie-making, especially when they rip the morons that run the studios. This book is a great example of that.
I don't know if I could stand to read something like that.  Even if no specific titles/projects were mentioned, I still suspect I would want to either weep and/or howl in rage for all the great films that aren't getting made.  I salute you, sir! 




Quote from: Banzai_Cat on May 11, 2014, 08:40:57 AMAs an aside: anyone remember the movie Manos: The Hands of Fate, by chance?
Almost certainly one of the greatest episodes of MST3K ever.  ;D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 11, 2014, 01:31:00 PM
Quote from: Martok on May 11, 2014, 11:12:05 AM
I don't know if I could stand to read something like that.  Even if no specific titles/projects were mentioned, I still suspect I would want to either weep and/or howl in rage for all the great films that aren't getting made.  I salute you, sir!

It's talked a bit about the development of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, and a movie that never saw the light of day, Smoke and Mirrors. I just started reading it and so far it's been a really good read.

Quote from: Banzai_Cat on May 11, 2014, 08:40:57 AMAs an aside: anyone remember the movie Manos: The Hands of Fate, by chance?
Quote from: MartokAlmost certainly one of the greatest episodes of MST3K ever.  ;D

I was part of a movie that's still shooting called The Rise of Torgo. It's a prequel to Manos. A local guy, someone I've worked with on other projects, is putting it together. He's been getting a bit of publicity, including Playboy magazine calling him up wanting to do an interview. Funny thing, the guy that did Manos never copyrighted the work, and other folks tried to put together a sequel, but it never came to be. I played a (very creepy) sheriff's deputy, and my daughter played one of the Master's wives, lol. I'd post a picture but the guy asked me not to share those until he was ready for it.

He's captured all the terrible production angles that made Manos so freaking hilariously awful, so here's hoping this movie has some of that...uh...charm. ;)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 14, 2014, 07:06:33 AM
Night of the Hunter by R.A. Salvatore.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 14, 2014, 06:43:22 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on May 14, 2014, 07:06:33 AM
Night of the Hunter by R.A. Salvatore.

Is that a Drizzt book?  Or something else by him?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 14, 2014, 06:50:53 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 14, 2014, 06:43:22 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on May 14, 2014, 07:06:33 AM
Night of the Hunter by R.A. Salvatore.

Is that a Drizzt book?  Or something else by him?

According to Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Legend_of_Drizzt), it is Book XXV of The Legend of Drizzt series. If I had known that, I would have begun with Book I, Homeland.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 14, 2014, 07:32:51 PM
It's been too many years since I kept up with the ins and outs of Salvatore's Drizzt character.  His first appearance was, Streams of Silver if I remember correctly.  That's where he took off.  I believe the next series started with Homeland and went into Menzoberranzan, home of the Drow.  After that, I lost track.  To know that he got 25 books out of an ensemble character does my heart good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 14, 2014, 10:59:13 PM
I recently finished another fantastic book by Guy Gavriel Kay called River of Stars which takes place in the same universe as, but several decades later than, the story in Under Heaven.

Now I'm reading many books concurrently, but the three most noteworthy are: Game of Thrones Book 4: A Feast for Crows, The U.S. Army in WW2: Guadalcanal- The First Offensive, and Elusive Victory.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 15, 2014, 01:21:48 PM
I've gotten more into Tales from Development Hell and gotta recommend it highly to anyone that has an interest in movies. Read a really interesting chapter about how the Lord of the Rings series came out (not much on the animated movie with its "where there's a whip there's a way" toe-tapper), a chapter on the development of Total Recall and how Minority Report was intended to be a Total Recall sequel, and several other interesting bits. Still have more than 3/4 of the book to go, but it's very interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 15, 2014, 04:13:22 PM
I've just finished 'Battle of the Bulge Vol 3, the 3rd Fallschirmjager Division in action Dec 1944 - Jan 1945' by Hans Wijers.

On order with Amazon I have Iain.M.Bank's last 'Culture' book, Hydrogen Sonata' and 'Hitler's Spanish Legion - The Blue Division' which is due out in July.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 15, 2014, 04:36:21 PM
I guess I should be reading some war books or sumthin' instead of these panty-waist Hollywood primers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 15, 2014, 05:54:00 PM
Since Night of the Hunter is the XXV book of the The Legend of Drizzt series and I hadn't read any of them yet, the first book of the series, Homeland, is on its way to me now.

While I am awaiting its arrival, I am reading Spellcasters: Witches and Witchcraft in History, Folklore, and Popular Culture (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/spellcasters-pauline-bartel/1103345893?ean=9780878331833) by Pauline Bartel. It's an interesting read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 15, 2014, 07:26:37 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on May 15, 2014, 05:54:00 PM
While I am awaiting its arrival, I am reading Spellcasters: Witches and Witchcraft in History, Folklore, and Popular Culture (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/spellcasters-pauline-bartel/1103345893?ean=9780878331833) by Pauline Bartel. It's an interesting read so far.

Wow. $82.50 at B&N is a bit steep. Especially when you can get a 'very good' used copy from Amazon starting at 83 cents.

An interesting title though. Now added to my 'buy later' list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 15, 2014, 09:07:17 PM
^Right in my wheelhouse...gotta check that title out. Thanks Greybriar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 15, 2014, 09:11:37 PM
You're welcome, Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 19, 2014, 09:09:29 AM
I finished the Widowmaker series by Mike Resnik.  Then reread Second Contact.

Listening (audiobook) to Monster Hunter Alpha by Larry Correia.

I've been reading a number of religious books lately that were suggested by my wife.  Riding the Dragon was less than useful.  I'm reading "Why to Catholics Genuflect" which is very interesting.  I'm reading bits and pieces of "50 Ways to Pray."

I have been doing the daily Mass (Bible) readings for several months.  Lots o' stress in my life that I'm trying to get a handle on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 19, 2014, 02:41:38 PM
Greybriar,

Up to the point I stopped reading (or just never started the next set to be more accurate, with The Thousand Orcs), the Drizzt series has run in trilogies; so while the books do tend to have coherently contained stories (more-or-less), they are also intended to be read in their appropriate sets. Anyway from experience I'd imagine if you find you like Homeland, you'll like the next two books, too; but the trilogies tend to have different tones per set so one trilogy doesn't necessarily indicate whether a reader will like the next trilogy and so forth.

This will be more true than usual when you finish the origin trilogy, which was written as a prequel, and move on to the Ten Towns trilogy, where Drizzt is a kewl secondary character for the team (because that was how he was designed) and the story focuses on Wulfgar (or whatever his name is) the barbarian for three books. Unless Salvatore has done a repolish, you'll find those three books a lot more rough-edged, too, naturally. ;) Things go back to Drizzt as essentially the main character (usually) from then on. (There are occasional digression books for a different character.)

If you get far enough to run across a holy cleric off in the mountains somewhere, because a pirate ship was teleported into a lake (don't ask, makes sense in context), you may want to digress off for a whole five book origin series on that guy (The Cleric Quintet), which was regarded for a while (maybe still is?) as Salvatore's best series. The books are all nicely short and well-paced, so you should burn through any of them quickly.

Kind of makes me want to re-collect and reread the series on Kindle now. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 19, 2014, 03:00:41 PM
AB,

I don't have many devotional books to recommend -- mostly I have technical/historical books -- and the one set I would normally recommend might add to your stress a bit, since George MacDonald has a few testy things to say in passing about Roman Catholics in his Unspoken Sermons (only once or twice but why borrow trouble?)

I just got finished reading Aidan Nichols' 2nd edition of Rome and The Eastern Churches, though, which sounds like something you might like: follows the history of doctrine and practice between the ancient trinitarian communions, and the good signs in modern times of them reconciling with one another. Nichols (himself Roman Catholic) takes a very friendly approach to all sides of the disputes, and while the warts-and-all realistic tracing of the disputes is sad I felt encouraged by the follow-through (despite being realistic about remaining problems).

I found Brant Pitre and Scott Hahn's Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist pretty interesting, too; I didn't entirely agree with all his attempts, but I was impressed with most of it and I'm super-picky.  C:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 20, 2014, 12:06:00 AM
Thanks for your comments, Jason. I appreciate your input.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on May 20, 2014, 12:36:35 PM
I recommend this religion/philosophy book.

http://www.amazon.ca/The-God-Delusion-Richard-Dawkins/dp/0618918248 (http://www.amazon.ca/The-God-Delusion-Richard-Dawkins/dp/0618918248)

WARNING: reveals belief incongruency in individuals
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 21, 2014, 09:11:04 AM
Visited a bookshop in one of the indoor markets in Newcastle today, and picked up a brand new, hard back copy, of Bitter Victory by Carlo d'Este.....for £5. To say I'm pleased would be an understatement   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 21, 2014, 10:46:51 AM
Just started book 6 (The Lord of Chaos) in The Wheel of Time series. 

It's still going well, but I am starting to think I may need to take a break and read something different after this before I plunge back into book 7 (when the series starts to slow down).  We'll see. 



EDIT:  Because I'm too dumb to keep my book titles straight...  :-[ 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 21, 2014, 11:22:50 AM
Martok,

It's worse than you think: TFOH is book 5! -- i.e. it feels like you've already read a whole book farther when you haven't. IT'S LIKE THE SLOG HAS ALREADY BEGUN!   ::)

(TFoH was my favorite book up until the grand finale finally overtook it; but reading it again last year I remembered why some people thought the slog had begun there or even with TSR before it and gave up. Fwiw, Sanderson's trilogy matches and eventually exceeds it IMO.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 21, 2014, 11:38:27 AM
Thanks for the correction, Jason.  Yeah, I meant to say I just began LoC yesterday (and that it was FoH that I just finished).  ::) 

I've heard Sanderson's trilogy is everything a WoT fan could hope for and more, but it's good to hear you say so as well.  It'll help me keep my "eye on the prize", so to speak -- especially important, once I begin the 7-10 slog (especially WH and CoT).  ;) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 21, 2014, 12:09:30 PM
Meanwhile, if I may engage in a bit of quasi-nepotism:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mariebrennan/chains-and-memory-a-sequel-to-lies-and-prophecy

Marie Brennan is an old friend of mine -- we met back on the Compuserve Wheel of Time forum back in the days between Lord of Chaos and A Crown of Swords -- and since back around 2006 or 07 she has been publishing fantasy series through Warner Aspect (Warner Books' fantasy arm at the time), Orbit (who bought out WA if I understand correctly) and now TOR. (Plus a metric ton of short stories, and doing things like helping freelance the rules and color for the recent Legend of the Five Rings (http://www.l5r.com/) role-playing game ruleset revision.) She routinely earns good reviews in the trades (and on Amazon etc.), including starred reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly. With two fantasy series under her belt, and a third one ongoing (a Victorianesque alternate-universe fantasy about a female scientist globetrotting the world studying dragons (http://www.swantower.com/novels/memoirs/dragons/index.html)), she joined a self-publishing collective of traditionally published authors last year to set up her very first completed fantasy novel (which I helped extensively edit back in the day, not incidentally  O:-) ), Lies and Prophecy (http://www.swantower.com/novels/wilders/lp.html).

Set in an alternate-universe version of Boston and Harvard (where she wrote it originally as a freshman, also not-incidentally), a few generations after an apocalyptic psychic event Manifested latent magical powers in many humans, Kim has just started her junior year majoring in divination classes when Something takes an interest in her peculiar friend Julian -- a young man (of some romantic interest, spoiler  ;) ) who makes even other magic students nervous with his subtly alien ways. What starts as a dark omen quickly turns dangerous, as Julian finds himself under attack, and Kim tries to master unfamiliar magics in an attempt to defeat her own premonitions and save her mysterious friend.

And then things get worse. A lot worse.

Marie has always wanted to write a sequel, and has been toying with the plot for it for nearly fifteen years while writing several other books and then the ones publishers have been buying. Now since she has gotten her original first novel finally published, and her fans from other books have supported it, and a bloc looks like it'll open up this year for continuing her contract with TOR (on the Lara Croftish Dragon Raider series, for want of a quicker description  :smitten: -- it's more serious than that, but the story goes back beyond the time I first met her and I'm pretty sure I remember the genesis of the idea) , she's hoping to write it this summer and get the first draft done by early October as a 15th anniversary of her first completed book. Then after she finishes the next book for TOR, she'll edit-polish up this sequel, Chains and Memory, for a tentative release 2015 depending on her other publishing obligations.

Since she's publishing through that (peer-edited) self-pub group, she can be pretty sure of releasing the book (she doesn't have to sell it through her agent etc.), and knowing her as well as I do I can vouch she'll want to finish it. So unless she gets hit by a bus or some other crippling tragedy happens, the release is pretty much a lock. (And in case of crippling tragedy she has many author friends, myself by far the least of them, who would help her get the book out the door, even posthumously if necessary.)

Still, she naturally wants to gin up some advance money ahead of time, partly to pay for the cover art which has already been done, so she has started her first Kickstarter. Thus the link above, which I'll repeat here for convenience. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mariebrennan/chains-and-memory-a-sequel-to-lies-and-prophecy

Note that this page necessarily spoils the plot a bit for the first book, since it minimally describes the second, but duh. Also depending on packages the first book will be included, though it's already available through Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009C2IW66), B&N (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lies-and-prophecy-marie-brennan/1112937238?ean=2940015679311), Book View Cafe (http://bookviewcafe.com/bookstore/book/lies-and-prophecy) (that's the author's collective mentioned above) and a few other places. Plus an audiobook version. Some areas offer print on demand for a hard copy.


The link has only been live for three days, and she's 71% to her goal already, so with her established fanbase I don't think she has to worry about meeting it (and waaaay exceeding it), but as a friend as well as a fan I wanted to promote it somewhere, so there it is. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on May 21, 2014, 02:24:13 PM
I love it when I can read posts that show a love of reading held by other people... it encourages me to get off the CiV5 treadmill and read something good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 22, 2014, 09:01:35 AM
Updated with correction: her Kickstarter has only been active two days (as of this morning) -- that's the correction -- and it's up past 100% this morning -- that's the update.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ficon_dancing.gif&hash=68a69b6148ca219ac9eb3b2e5daf1cf16e50515a)(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ficon_dancing.gif&hash=68a69b6148ca219ac9eb3b2e5daf1cf16e50515a)(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ficon_dancing.gif&hash=68a69b6148ca219ac9eb3b2e5daf1cf16e50515a)(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ficon_dancing.gif&hash=68a69b6148ca219ac9eb3b2e5daf1cf16e50515a)(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ficon_dancing.gif&hash=68a69b6148ca219ac9eb3b2e5daf1cf16e50515a)

No idea how many, if any, Grogs helped with that -- it was smoking along quickly to the minimum already -- but thanks if so!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 22, 2014, 09:09:12 AM
That's cool, JP. I've thought about trying Kickstarter to help fund my book, which is about halfway done, but it's taken me several years to get to this point. I would have no idea what 'rewards' to offer since I've never written a book before.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 22, 2014, 07:11:39 PM
Mention in the credits?  Dedication of the book?  Author's private phone number?  Half the proceeds?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 22, 2014, 07:20:06 PM
Yeah, mention in the book might work, even naming a character perhaps.

The phone number wouldn't work as I ignore all numbers I don't recognize, ha. Besides, I'd only breathe heavily.

Half the proceeds...that might turn out to be $14.08, if I'm lucky.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 22, 2014, 07:53:48 PM
What's it about?  Maybe one of us will be your first customer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 22, 2014, 08:13:42 PM
I've thought for months of posting something here on this site, but it's taking me so long to do it that I hate to generate interest and then take too long to deliver. My FB page for this series has 64 fans I think...I'm amazed they're still there over the years, but it's been a while since I've updated it...and yada yada yada.

Anyway.

It is an alternate history/sci-fi type of tale, surrounding the Trinity nuclear test of 1945. The bomb goes off, and all kinds of things go wrong, throughout the world. The bomb creates a 'zone' (for lack of a better word) that slowly grows outwards, claiming the land.

I've created that area as sort of a cross-dimensional focal point where different realities mesh and mix - there's one where Germany is actually an ally of America, fighting the Japanese in a similar WWII vein, plus others. This also happens across the world, and I'm still working on the hows, but I've narrowed it down significantly over the last few months.

Since it's 1945 when this happens, parts of the world suddenly shift into other realities - mostly Earth-based ones. For example, parts of Russia become Mongol; parts of France become medieval; the entire Allied army between the Rhine and the Oder disappears; and several other events.

I've created a core set of characters from several parts of the globe, still working on bringing them all together. I've put historical figures into the book - for example, the Potsdam conference was in full swing when the Trinity test took place, and of course we find the Potsdam estate where it happens come under siege, finding Truman, Churchill, and Stalin suddenly facing an attack, with a U.S. lieutenant MP trying to herd them to safety in the middle of the chaos. I also have Patton in there, whom will be a central figure in the book's climax. The other fictional characters, I've tried to make them down to earth and real. A pair of cross-country bank robbers, pursued by the feds, get cornered in a bank in New Mexico in 1944, and they are put to death in the gas chamber in July 1945. One dies at the moment the bomb goes off, but instead of dying, he merges with Death itself. Another is a black preacher whom loses his mind and becomes a sort of savant. Still another is a sheriffs deputy from Montana, a drifter, a sergeant MP in Alamogordo (I base him on a real-world friend of mine, a vet of Afghanistan whom took a sniper round to the helmet and lived, a real brave guy that constantly humbles me by telling me how much he loves my book idea). There's others, but I can't think of them offhand.

The main driving force - the invasion of New Mexico after the bomb breaks open reality there - that's been a tough one to put together, but I finally think I nailed it down in the form of ancient peoples that have conquered many worlds, attracted to them because of their warlike and violent properties, almost like an energy that 'soaks' into the world itself as a result of warfare. Sounds awfully hippy I know, but it just started as a thread of an idea and steamrolled from there.

I've honestly thought of self-publishing. I did try shopping the idea to a couple of publishers, but never got a reply, except from one - a guy that works with Harry Turtledove, and he was a real prick. I think I can probably put it together and possibly sell it as an ebook on Amazon, because funds are very tight for me. Self-publishing isn't exactly dirt cheap, especially if you go for printed copies, and my inability to decide on how to eventually deploy this has made me stay away from Kickstarter.

Well, that's a pretty random and jumbled synopsis, but hopefully it gives you a decent idea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 22, 2014, 09:32:52 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on May 22, 2014, 09:09:12 AM
That's cool, JP. I've thought about trying Kickstarter to help fund my book, which is about halfway done, but it's taken me several years to get to this point. I would have no idea what 'rewards' to offer since I've never written a book before.

To be fair, she sort of cheats by being an author with... 7 traditionally published books so far and the 8th in post-production? So she can go to self-pub and even go Kickstarter with a built-in audience already.

By "cheat" I mean "worked her butt off to be in a position to win the publisher lottery eventually." ;) Her other first book, which she finished shortly after this one (both being worked on at about the same time) -- also the one I always thought needed the least editing as it stood -- was picked up six years later when an editor leaving one publishing house, whom she'd gotten to know by meeting her a few times at conventions, wrote back (after Marie's second submission a few years later) to say she was passing it on to another editor over at Warner for recommendation. The new editor called back a month or two later and asked if Marie had an agent yet. She hadn't been able to get an agent yet, but all she had to do at that point was call up the one she wanted most to be with and say "Hi, Warner Aspect wants to publish me, can I have an agent?" i.e., "Say, would y'all like some money for almost no effort?"  :D She's been churning along ever since.

(Though Warner did throw her a curve by saying they'd only make an offer if she could write a sequel, too. Which for that book she had never once considered, but she knew the Ghostbuster motto.  >:D )

So she did eventually sell her (almost-)first book first -- and notably she the two houses that finally expressed interest had already seen it submitted to each of them once, and she had given it only some minimum tweaks before second submission years later! But it took a long time and a lot of networking at conventions and conferences. She wrote another four or five books meanwhile that she still has never sold. She doesn't didn't really do series (I think she'd still prefer not to do them usually), and was kind of forced into them by her publishers. But when trying to get in the door it's definitely best to write a bunch of things that could be series so you can send out more submissions on one hand; while publishers like to have series on the other. Also helping: writing short stories and getting them published by anyone who will pay you for them; though in her case winning the Asimov Award that year helped set up both being bought by Warner and getting short stories published. But the idea is that publishers (and agents) like to risk their own money on people whom other businesses felt comfortable risking their own money on. The scale doesn't matter a lot. But getting to know editors at publishing houses via conventions and making a good impression with them obviously helps as well.

Consequently, she has always rightly said I stand pretty much no chance of ever being picked up!

1.) My work prevents me from traveling and thus effectively networking with agents and editors;

2.) I'm not really geared to write short stories; (she wasn't either but she learned through hard work)

3.) I only have one very large story in me that all my 'stories' in plural seem to fit into, so I have a series but not multiple submission possibilities;

4.) Last but not least I have to use a weird narrative structure to solve a plot problem much later in the series, which makes for difficult entry into the story for no reason that can be clarified until the end of the series. (Not a problem most other authors have, but still a significant one.)

To that an editor once added bemusedly that I'm faaaaaaaar too Christian for most secular(ish) publishers, yet not even remotely enough Christian for Christian publishers. (That's a fair assessment.  O:-) )

But my problems and her successes can be a good guide for others. Do as she does, not as I do.  8)

(Or be prepared to spend a luxury car's worth on 6000 really nice hardback copies plus marketing.  :D Which is not at all guaranteed to work. But does guarantee I have 100% rights to my work and copies ready to put in stores should things ever pick up enough for someone else to risk money on me.  :uglystupid2: )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 23, 2014, 10:24:12 AM
As a writer the last two posts befuddle and depress me greatly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 23, 2014, 10:25:02 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 23, 2014, 10:24:12 AM
As a writer the last two posts befuddle and depress me greatly.

My synopsis was that bad?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 23, 2014, 12:39:01 PM
He may have meant my last two posts.  :-[

(Or possibly my last one post which like many of my posts might as well be two posts long...  :buck2: )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 24, 2014, 10:14:54 PM
Picked up John Scalzi's Old Man's War at the library today.  I seemed to remember someone here suggesting it as a good read.  And they were right.  I also picked up Octavia Butler's Mind of My Mind and Marion Zimmer Bradley's Darkover Landfall.  I already finished Old Man's War.  Probably picking up the Darkover novel next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 25, 2014, 06:37:24 AM
Dawg, there are a few more novels in the Old Man's War series you should check out. IIRc, there are also a number of short stories, some of which actually form a kind of serial novel in themselves.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 25, 2014, 07:21:55 AM
Thanks, Stagger.  Now that I am aware of them, I will be on the lookout.,
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 25, 2014, 07:00:33 PM
Just the amount of work you are all putting into getting published and the unequal results received...depressing for me, especially as an aspiring author.

Also - I am about to begin reading Carthage Must be Destroyed. Been looking forward to this one for a long time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 25, 2014, 07:33:34 PM
^Ah,
"Delenda Est" is a great Alt/Hist novella by Poul Anderson. It is one of his "Time Patrol/Shield of Time" stories that speculates on what could happen if time-travelers intervene in many pivotal moments in history, some not even remembered as such. For those of you who have an interest in Roman-era Germania and the Age of Migrations two other great stories by Anderson are "The Star of the Sea" and "The Sorrows of Odin the Goth".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 25, 2014, 09:58:04 PM
Well, Gus, any of us can be an author, and even a good author, regardless of how well we succeed at publication or not.  O:-)

(Heck, I succeeded at publication! -- just not at marketing. (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ftongue.gif&hash=8346edd0f3dd3de9545ed45fc2041e6166db2005))
Title: .
Post by: eyebiter on May 26, 2014, 07:22:30 AM
.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 26, 2014, 09:00:22 AM
I always wanted to like Dune.  It's one of the classics, like the Foundation series by Asimov, or 2001 by Clarke.  Ringworld by Niven & Pournelle.  I just couldn't do it.  Not sure if it was over my head or just boring as hell.  The good thing is, I know I am in the minority here.  Too many people have read it and enjoyed, so the fault must be on my end.  Glad you are continuing to enjoy Herbert's universe, eyebiter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 26, 2014, 03:27:18 PM
^ You are not alone bruddah.  I just couldn't get into Dune. 

I got to the part where the mom(?) and kid are in a cave with some guys, and the kid starts to have this "experience" or something, and I shelved it.  Just  not what I was expecting.

But so many people like it, I feel like I should like it.  Maybe I need to try again?   :-\
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on May 26, 2014, 04:07:59 PM
Quote from: Toonces on May 26, 2014, 03:27:18 PM
^ You are not alone bruddah.  I just couldn't get into Dune. 

I got to the part where the mom(?) and kid are in a cave with some guys, and the kid starts to have this "experience" or something, and I shelved it.  Just  not what I was expecting.

But so many people like it, I feel like I should like it.  Maybe I need to try again?   :-\

Life's too short to force it. If that's the point you got to and shelved it you probably won't like the rest.

Dune was good, the next two were a slog but God Emperor, 4th, was just awesome.

I've read some of the books by his son and they are good to and probably more straight forward sci-fi than Herbert's stuff.

Maybe start at the prequels as they setup the Galaxy the Dune is set in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 26, 2014, 05:20:10 PM
I enjoyed all the Polesotechnic League period of Nicholas van Rijn books by Poul Anderson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 27, 2014, 07:55:48 PM
Dune starts real slow.  The Dune series also decreases in quality at a rapidly increasing rate as the sequels/prequels piled on.  Dune is more a political science/ecology in the future novel than a military science fiction book.

I've read it three times in the last 30 years.  But I read really fast, read every day, and reread stuff to go to sleep at night.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 27, 2014, 10:50:26 PM
Quote from: Barthheart on May 26, 2014, 04:07:59 PM
Quote from: Toonces on May 26, 2014, 03:27:18 PM
^ You are not alone bruddah.  I just couldn't get into Dune. 

I got to the part where the mom(?) and kid are in a cave with some guys, and the kid starts to have this "experience" or something, and I shelved it.  Just  not what I was expecting.

But so many people like it, I feel like I should like it.  Maybe I need to try again?   :-\

Life's too short to force it. If that's the point you got to and shelved it you probably won't like the rest.



It's funny you say that because a co-worker and I were having a conversation about just that.

What started it was me talking about Morrowind.  I'm on my 5th or so start on the game and, man, I just cannot get into it.  But everyone raves about how awesome it is and how Morrowind >>Skyrim that I feel like I have to play and finish it so I can feel like I can die happy.   I don't want to die and realize I never finished Morrowind, do I?

My co-worker's opinion is that life is too short to waste time playing a game you don't like.  He compared it to Lord of the Rings.  Even though he actually is an adult that has a weekly D&D group he plays with, he's never read LotR.  He said he got to Tom Bombadill and gave up on the book.  My opinion was that he owes it to himself to read the book at least once.

Why?

Because it's a classic of the genre and was (one of) the inspiration for D&D.  It's just a classic book and everyone should read it once, but especially a D&D geek.  It gives you perspective.  That's my opinion anyway.  He has the opposite- I don't waste time on books I don't like- opinion.

So when I read your comment about Dune, that's what it made me think of.  I feel like I should read it because it's a classic book.  If I don't like it, so be it, but I should at least finish it anyway so I can feel complete.   :idiot2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on May 28, 2014, 05:26:01 AM
Heh, I have a list of classic books as long as my arm that I NEED to read before I croak... But I'll get to those when I'm retired and have more time.

For now I read the stuff that gets me interested right off and entertains me more than enlightens me.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 28, 2014, 02:10:09 PM
So I'm now about halfway through Lord of Chaos, book 6 in Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series.  And while I'm still thoroughly enjoying it, I'm already starting to notice a little of the "filler" material (which is rather notorious for slowing down the pace in books 7-10, and especially WH and CoT) creep in.  Not enough to affect the pacing in the current book, but enough for me to recognize it, now that I'm aware of its existence in the series as a whole. 

Not for the first time -- and I'm sure it won't be the last -- I wonder why Jordan added all this filler material.  Was he simply trying to pad things out, so as to further line his pockets?  Or did he truly feel it was necessary to flesh out the story?  I doubt we'll ever know, of course, but I find it interesting to think about. 

Anyway, still having a blast with the novels so far.  Even setting the storyline(s) aside, they're fun to read if for no other reason than because I enjoy seeing such a well-developed fictional world. 




Quote from: MetalDog on May 26, 2014, 09:00:22 AM
I always wanted to like Dune.  It's one of the classics, like the Foundation series by Asimov, or 2001 by Clarke.  Ringworld by Niven & Pournelle.  I just couldn't do it.  Not sure if it was over my head or just boring as hell.  The good thing is, I know I am in the minority here.  Too many people have read it and enjoyed, so the fault must be on my end.  Glad you are continuing to enjoy Herbert's universe, eyebiter.
I'm another reader who wasn't enthralled with Dune.  Not that I actually disliked it -- I enjoyed it well enough -- nor do I consider it a waste of time to have read it.  However, the book simply didn't grab me the way it has so many others, and I've never fully understood why it's considered such a classic of the genre.  <shrug>  Different strokes for different folks, I guess. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 28, 2014, 05:27:16 PM
I feel reasonably sure it wasn't to line his pockets. He just split the party too much, and got lost meandering around in his descriptions, and had to invent things for certain characters to do while they were marking time. The Nyn/El plotline will really start grinding in a jerky stop/start fashion for a while in this book, and then Perrin returns and RJ has to invent things for him to do while not accomplishing much up through Book 11. And then still onward with him for a while. He really doesn't have much to do from now until the final book except (1) resolve his problems with Faile, a situation RJ invented purely to force conflict in earlier books; and (2) resolve his problems with the Whitecloaks, ditto only further back in the plot.  :uglystupid2:

I suspect Perrin was the character who was meant to be able to 'go home' and stay there for a while until needed for the Final Battle, so his story wrapped up nicely back in Book 4 and he spent Book 5 happily offscreen. I mean, sure, RJ writes him into the climax of LoC but Perrin didn't really have to be there. Any number of things could have (and actually did) set up a delaying fight long enough for Rand to break free and/or be rescued by the A-Team's first combat appearance. I have a hard time remembering anything he really affects relevant to the main plot up until the final book. He neutralizes Masema, but had largely succeeded at that anyway, and he himself isn't even the one to do it: Masema gets blipped in a hilarious loose-end snip at the start of Sanderson's Book 12, and not by Perrin! Masema was really nothing more than a distant annoyance adding a little more chaos to an area already seething with it.)


Earlier this year (or was it late last year...?) I started a project which I've played with off and on, of trimming Books 6-11 down to two books. Perrin wouldn't feature a lot in them. ;) Much of the Nyn/El material would be trimmed out, too, because if the story there is that the characters are sitting around bored out of their minds, then quickly packed off to where they spend all book being ineffective and also bored out of their minds, THAT'S GOOD MATERIAL TO EDIT OUT RJ!  :idiot2:

I ended up trimming out quite a bit of fluff with Rand and even Matt, too (though trimming out anything with Matt hurts, but I didn't so much trim it as effectively compress two scenes better into one and skip along past some other things). Things important for the plot, and to establish their current situation and relationships with other characters, stayed. Marking time and window dressing, gone. Also all of Perrin's prologue chapter portion, gone -- he can show up later and we'd know why he came, and the girls from the 2 Rivers in Caemlyn can catch up Rand sufficiently on what's going on there meanwhile. I did keep a lot of the Forsaken material so far, because they don't get much by proportion to begin with (though I trimmed out quite a bit of that horrible Semi torture sequence, largely for taste.)

Books 6, 7 and 8 do well clustering a number of stories, just not so well in decompressing them across three books.

Story 1.) Rand tries to rule like a king and fails miserably. This leads him into dealing with saidin (which is driving him and the BT crazy) and hiding out so he doesn't mess things up worse in the Second Macro Book which comprises 9,10,11.

1.1.) Rand vs. Sammael, which is largely based on marking time in order to bluff Sam about Rand and Mat's real plan. The bluff delay does give the White Tower an opportunity to try being an antagonist, and they do a good job even though (like a lot of RJ's 'plots' in these middle books) they basically pull it off at the last minute. But it's Elaida's last chance to be competently dangerous for, like, ever, so I'm okay with it. This is finished by the end of Book 7.

1.2.) Rand establishes the Black Tower and Mazrim Taim.
1.2.1.) Phase One: from humble beginnings the BT levels up to be a scary elite fighting force. Basically accomplished by the end of book 6, which is amazingly quick by RJ's standards.  8)
1.2.2.) Phase Two: Taim, just how much of a problem is he? On the backburner mostly through book 7 and clarified (for the reader at least) at the end of 8.

1.3.) Rand vs. the Return of the Seanchan. Mostly setup in Books 6 and 7, kicks into gear with Book 8. Round one goes to Rand, but from his side it looks like a pyhric victory and reveals he has to get away from kingship. (Also, I can't spell pyrhic apparently.  :P ) After this the Seanchan stop trying to advance in the south at least, so he accomplished that much.


Story 2.) The Supergirls.

2.1.) Egwene finishes her Wise One training (or close enough to never mind) and puts that to work consolidating power at the White Tower and kicking them into gear. She'll be parked in one place (or two places rather) for Books 9-11 accomplishing not much and I'd leave out a lot of that, but I'd keep most of her things in Books 6-8.

2.2.) Min finally gets back to Rand and becomes his consort/prophecy aid. Not much happens with that, and even RJ doesn't bother much with it.  :))

2.3.) El and Nyn (and Avi once she gets in range) discover the existence of the Bowl of the Winds (plus the big cache of *-angreal and the secret retired superchannelers), hunt for it, find it, deploy it, and escape. This gets horribly decompressed in stuttery jumps of them not accomplishing a lot but because Mat is around and they're the only other female protagonists RJ spends A BUTTLOAD OF TIME detailing their boredom and failures and occasional successes. Women are constantly bitchy to one another and to the men around them along the way, because women, amirite? {puke}

2.4.) Mat acts as plot support for various purposes until rocks fall on him. But because he's actually amusing I'd keep as much of his material wherever possible.  O0


3.) Who will lead the Forses now? (Doesn't quite count as a Story.)

3.1.) Sam makes a strong bid to break off and do his own thing, but falls prey to sitting around waiting to trap Rand. Done by Book 7. I'd make his death more obviously obvious, too.

3.2.) Moridin arrives meanwhile (though not obviously so in Book 6 of course) and consolidates enough of the surviving Forses to make it clear he's in charge henceforth. The Forses don't really do much otherwise, which is a problem, but an endemic one throughout the series and I can't change that by editing. (Relatedly, I can't change the lamely anticlimactic usage of SHADAR HARAN SUPERFADE eventually, which leaves me honestly unsure how much of him to leave around. Oh, uh, spoiler, Martok in case you were hoping SH's buildup would amount to anything special. Sorry. I won't go into details, but just get used to disappointment now.)


These are all pretty much a bloc for the three books; the subsequent three books map out almost as cleanly except with less for the characters to do.  :idiot2: In effect Knife of Dreams should have been one larger book but not grossly much larger.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 29, 2014, 04:32:59 AM
Yeah, the Supergirls plotlines drove me a bit crazy, especially El & Nyn's.  However, I also agree it was helped that at least Mat was there to lighten things up a bit. 

What *really* drove me insane in books 7-10 was Perrin's storyline; that damn thing meandered worse than the lower Mississippi during spring flooding.  I can't believe it took RJ until KoD to resolve that one.  :tickedoff: 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 29, 2014, 05:58:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 25, 2014, 07:00:33 PM
Just the amount of work you are all putting into getting published and the unequal results received...depressing for me, especially as an aspiring author.

But just think, if you score the bigtime someday and get picked up by TOR, they may send a film crew to follow you around during one of your book tours.



That's their little featurette on Marie (and MRK whom she teamed up with for a book store signing) and her new 19th centuryish dragon-hunting book (2nd in a contracted 5 part series.)

Insanely, the frame chosen by TOR and/or by Youtube as indicative of the video, shows neither Marie nor Mary, just someone in the audience. Is she supposed to be another author whom viewers would recognize more readily? No idea. The Maryies are cosplaying Victorian though.  :)

I had forgotten how super-weird Marie's accent is. (Texan + Bostonian + Indianian + whatever she's picking up in San Francisco.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 30, 2014, 10:40:03 AM
Following me around wouldn't be very interesting...'schleps up to study, plays computer games, reads book, pets dog, goes to bed.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 30, 2014, 11:49:42 AM
I begin Carthage Must Be Destroyed by Richard Miles today, unless I can dig out the first part of that Hitler biography I bought by Ian Kershaw to read along with playing the new Wolfenstein game.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 31, 2014, 07:38:17 PM
Finally finished Tales From Development Hell (admittedly, I skipped several chapters that talked about movies that I had no interest in reading about).

Now on to a book I've had on my Kindle for a while now, Mutant Cinema: The X-Men Trilogy from Comics to Screen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 01, 2014, 07:43:23 AM
B_C, both those books sound good.  I'm just curious, what movies did the book cover that you weren't interested in?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 01, 2014, 09:24:25 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 01, 2014, 07:43:23 AM
B_C, both those books sound good.  I'm just curious, what movies did the book cover that you weren't interested in?

I can give you a breakdown of the contents so you can see if it's something you're interested in.

1. Smoke and Mirrors - a pretty epic-sounding movie that was never made; it had to do with magic and Indiana Jones-ish adventure.

2. Monkey Business - how Tim Burton's Planet of the Apes movie bizarrely developed.

3. Cast Into Mount Doom - about the road to making the eventual Lord of the Rings trilogy.

4. We Can Rewrite It For You Wholesale - about the development of Total Recall and its sequel (this chapter hurts because the sequel sounded all kinds of awesome). An interesting note: Minority Report was an offshoot of the planned Total Recall sequel.

5. Keeping Up With The Joneses - the tale of the development of the fourth Indiana Jones movie.

6. The Lost Crusade - about Schwarzenegger's pet project, Crusade, which was never made.

7. Train Wreck - a movie (which sounded rather interesting) called Isobar, which was touted as 'Alien on a train,' but was never made despite the best efforts of Ridley Scott, Joel Silver, Sylvester Stallone, and Roland Emmerich.

8. Who Wants To Be A Billionaire? - about the development of The Aviator. I liked the movie but it isn't something I'd go back and see again. This chapter was a little dull for me and I skipped the latter half of it.

9. Perchance to Dream - about the development of a comic book character, The Sandman, for a movie. I never heard of this character and read part of the chapter, but since I didn't know anything about it, it didn't resonate with me, so I skipped much of it.

10. Crisis On The Hot Zone - how a cerebral film dealing with a potentially world-ending virus ended up getting Hollywood-ized and therefore turned to crap, and ended up never being made since the terrible film Outbreak was being made by a rival studio at the same time (plus other reasons as well).

11. Fall and Rise of the Dark Knight - a very interesting chapter about the development of the Batman reboot.

12. Tomb Raider Chronicles - the difficulties faced in bringing Lara Croft and her boobs to the big screen.

13. The Incredible Shrinking Film - about the never-made remake of Fantastic Voyage, which at one point had James Cameron behind it.

14. Tales From The Script - about the author's experience as a scriptwriter - very interesting.

I made it sound as if I skipped half the book - for me, even skipping one chapter is a Bad Thing, and I skipped most of two. However, the remainder of the book was very interesting. If you like behind-the-scenes tales, check it out:

http://www.amazon.com/Tales-From-Development-Hell-Greatest/dp/0857687239

The same author wrote The Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Never Made. I haven't read this one but it's on my short list to get in the near future:

http://www.amazon.com/Greatest-Sci-fi-Revised-Expanded-Edition/dp/1845767551

And if you want a really funny and interesting look at how assistants move and operate within the Hollywood environment, I highly recommend Where's My F*cking Latte?:

http://www.amazon.com/Wheres-cking-Stories-Assistant-Hollywood-ebook/dp/B000ZHN93S/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1401632288&sr=1-1&keywords=where%27s+my+latte

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 01, 2014, 10:06:34 AM
Thanks for the breakdown, B_C.  I love movies and while I am not really all that interested in how they are made or get made, I, like I suspect many others here, LOVE knowledge.  Of secret things, hidden treasures, stories that don't get told.  What makes me TRULY sad, and you touched on it briefly, is the Hollywood-ization of stories that don't need the Hollywood treatment to begin with.  I have always wondered what possessed bright, intelligent, creative people (as I expect many Hollywood types to be) to consider it necessary to fool with someone elses creation.  LotR is a perfect example.  Arwens invented role in the movie.  Scenes, such as Frodo sending Sam back to the Shire at the foot of Cirith Ungol or Faramir bringing the hobbits to Osgiliath, that never happened in the books and added absolutely NOTHING that the original didn't already cover far better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 01, 2014, 04:18:44 PM
That chapter on LOTR actually deals more with a planned live-action film back in the 70s sometime. I was disappointed that it didn't talk more about the animated film (which it did hint at..."when there's a whip (wa-PSSHHH)...there's a way..." - or what you see on Mirth's welcome mat), and it didn't get too in-depth with Peter Jackson's trilogy; it was kind of all over the place. But still, most everything I read in that book was pretty fascinating.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 01, 2014, 05:13:52 PM
Ahem... there were two animated adaptations of LotR.  8) Bakshi had the rights through The Two Towers and covered things up through the battle at Helms' Deep; Rankin-Bass pretty much skipped the rest of TTT and dealt with Return.

(I did get a Kindle copy of Development Hell, btw.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 01, 2014, 07:31:31 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 01, 2014, 05:13:52 PM
Ahem... there were two animated adaptations of LotR.  8) Bakshi had the rights through The Two Towers and covered things up through the battle at Helms' Deep; Rankin-Bass pretty much skipped the rest of TTT and dealt with Return.

(I did get a Kindle copy of Development Hell, btw.)

Yeah, duh, of course there were two...my bad.

And congrats on the book...hope you enjoy it.  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 01, 2014, 10:52:14 PM
Speaking of Tolkien, I'm about halfway through The Book of Lost Tales Vol. 1, and I'm 75% through Game of Thrones book 4.  It isn't nearly as bad as everyone has made it out to be. 

Lost Tales is a pretty tough read, though, I have to admit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 01, 2014, 11:43:07 PM
used a gift card for B&N today.  I picked up House of Steel witch is a Honor Harrington background book and German Panzers of World War II.  the latter wasn't gotten for any new information but I do like how it gives you the formation information of various divisions throughout the course of the war.  great paper, good photos and graphics and it was in one the sale isles for $13.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 02, 2014, 02:27:22 PM
BC, I've heard book 4 is a lot better than the previous 2, but having given up on the series while just thumbing through book 1 I can't opine on it at all.

Star,

Okay, in my mind that translated out to you picking up an Honor Harrington background book called "House of [the?] Steel Witch", involving German Panzers of WW2, and that reminded me to ask myself why I've never gotten into that series already!

Then I read more closely, and was disappointed.  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 02, 2014, 04:11:38 PM
lol
serves me right for posting after watching the Blackhawks lose at the pub.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 02, 2014, 06:33:07 PM
Quote from: Toonces on June 01, 2014, 10:52:14 PM
Speaking of Tolkien, I'm about halfway through The Book of Lost Tales Vol. 1, and I'm 75% through Game of Thrones book 4.  It isn't nearly as bad as everyone has made it out to be. 

Lost Tales is a pretty tough read, though, I have to admit.


Game of Thrones doesn't truly get tough until Book 5, Dance with Dragons.  What a boring read and waste of a perfectly good tree.  The Book of Lost Tales doesn't require having read The Silmarillion, but it doesn't hurt, either.  Plus, I find all the First and Second Age history that Tolkien wrote, was done in a style that is not at all like LotR.  So, some people are put off, thinking they are getting LotR and they don't.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 03, 2014, 01:13:09 AM
So I finished Book 4; I didn't realize that last 10% of the book was appendix stuff.

I read the reviews on Book 5 and it sounds like I'm going to be terribly disappointed as I'm not going to get any closure. 

So in that spirit, I'm looking for a good Viking-type book; something about Norse or northern mythology fiction or non-fiction.  I'm not even exactly sure, but something that is sort of Skyrimy that can be real or not.  If it's something that I can find in the library that is better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 03, 2014, 05:11:16 AM
Why not read up on the myths themselves?

This is a good, easily read collection of most of the important myths distilled down mostly from the Eddas and the works of Saxo Gramaticus: The Norse Myths by Kevin Crossley-Holland (http://books.google.com/books/about/The_Norse_Myths.html?id=d58wInmDgTAC).
It should be available through library loan services if not already in your local library. Otherwise it's about $10 for the large trade size from Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 03, 2014, 02:12:52 PM
Salvatore's original trilogy featuring Drizzt, the Icewind Dale trilogy, isn't about the dark elf at all, but about barbarians and Nordic D&D adventures up in the 10 Towns. Quick reads.

For something completely different and kind of insane (well a different kind of insane than D&D norse barbarian adventures), if also rather pricey, you might consider Ronald Murphy's prose translation of the oldest known surviving Old Saxon poetry, The Heliand (http://www.amazon.com/Heliand-Gospel-G-Ronald-Murphy/dp/0195073762): a Gospel harmonization by an evangelical priest for the newly conquered Saxons, transmuting almost every character and most of the settings into Saxon warrior-culture tropes -- while subtly critiquing Charlemagne's aggressive (even vicious) proselytizing policies. Tolkien certainly knew the work, although if he ported any inspiration from it into his creation of Middle-Earth I don't know about it. Fr. Murphy's prose translation doesn't try to be overtly poetic, which is the main drawback to it, but he works hard to keep a lot of the stylisms of the forms of the poem; and its main attraction, aside from being an important pre-English literary curiosity, is the insight it gives (with M's commentary) on the culture and lifestyle of the early medieval Saxons. Pricey, but a standard university text (if one doesn't want to go for the full Saxon verses in a critical edition).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 03, 2014, 11:53:40 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 03, 2014, 02:12:52 PM
Salvatore's original trilogy featuring Drizzt, the Icewind Dale trilogy, isn't about the dark elf at all, but about barbarians and Nordic D&D adventures up in the 10 Towns. Quick reads.




Funny you should mention it, I am re-reading The Icewind Dales trilogy right now.  While it is not exclusively about Drizz't, he is an integral part of the story. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on June 07, 2014, 07:45:03 AM
Anyone recommend a dark fantasy book\series.

Last fantasy books I read was Raymond E Feists Magician trilogy which I really rated. That was many years ago now though.

Actually just remembered Hawkmoon and Von Bek by Moorcock. Again loved hose aswell.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on June 07, 2014, 07:59:28 AM
have you read the 2 patrick rothfuss ones?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 07, 2014, 09:48:35 AM
The Dark Tower series by Stephen King - excellent stuff, and it is quite dark fantasy and not horror.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 07, 2014, 12:00:13 PM
Try Glen Cook The Black Company.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 07, 2014, 01:35:13 PM
You finally get around to that, Gus?  And a spot on suggestion, too.  Along with Elric, by Moorcock.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 07, 2014, 02:36:57 PM
Longitude by Dava Sobel.  It's the history of the race in the 18th century to find a reliable way of determining longitude while at sea.  It's on sale on the Kindle Daily Deal for June 7.  I picked it up around midnight and got a few chapters in.  It's decent so far but it's assuming very little prior knowledge on part of the reader so if you're at all familiar with the subject, a lot of the opening chapter will seem remedial. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on June 07, 2014, 03:21:51 PM
Been looking at the Elric books. Think I will order the Stormbringer omnibus. Also the Carum omnibus looks goo too.

Thanks for the tips.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 07, 2014, 08:33:17 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 07, 2014, 02:36:57 PM
Longitude by Dava Sobel.  It's the history of the race in the 18th century to find a reliable way of determining longitude while at sea.  It's on sale on the Kindle Daily Deal for June 7.  I picked it up around midnight and got a few chapters in.  It's decent so far but it's assuming very little prior knowledge on part of the reader so if you're at all familiar with the subject, a lot of the opening chapter will seem remedial.

This was turned into a docudrama with Jeremy Irons playing the role of the WW1 vet restoring the clocks and Michael Gambon as the clockmaker himself.

Both book and movie were quite good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 08, 2014, 01:37:30 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 07, 2014, 01:35:13 PMMoorcock.

So you like Moorcock?
have you ever been to Morocco?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 08, 2014, 04:04:10 PM
Yeah MD...Glenn Cook has done some very good fantasy and scifi. I especially like The Black Company stories. Dark and not too over the top. Just how I like my...etc.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 08, 2014, 09:35:51 PM
Reason I asked was, you hadn't read it a few years ago when I first brought up the Black Company.  Then I see you suggesting it.  Glad you enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 09, 2014, 07:42:19 AM
I haven't read the entire collection I have, about two thirds of ot including some stand alone Black Company books and one longer omnibus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 09, 2014, 08:12:18 AM
I'm currently reading The Great War and Modern Memory by Paul Fussell as part of my research work this summer. It's an examination of how WWI vets processed, remembered, and communicated their experiences through literature, written by a WWII vet. Really good so far, I'm about 1/3 of the way through.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 09, 2014, 09:12:16 AM
I've got more books on my Kindle than one person should reasonably have. The Mutant Cinema book that I started reading is outstanding; I just haven't had too much time to get into it too deeply other than late night moments winding down for bed. If you're into the X-Men comics, this definitely should be on your reading list; even if you're not but are engaged by the X-Men movies, you should check it out.

Because I'm easily distracted in what little off time I've had lately, I found In the President's Secret Service: Behind the Scenes with Agents in the Line of Fire and the Presidents They Protect on my Kindle (http://www.amazon.com/In-Presidents-Secret-Service-Protect/dp/030746136X). I started reading it and it caught my attention pretty quickly. I'm actually surprised the amount of stuff they're revealing, but it's probably my partial ignorance to something that's common knowledge that this is coming from. For example, everyone knows JFK was a womanizer, but I wasn't aware that Johnson was ten times worse. People talk bad about Clinton getting a BJ in the Oval Office, but apparently Johnson was one day screwing one of his secretaries (he apparently had a thing for anything with female parts, much like most of us here on GH) on a couch in the Oval Office and his wife busted him. He was so livid and upset with the Secret Service for not warning him ahead of time/stopping her, that he had them install a buzzer system, which they would engage whenever the First Lady was approaching.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 09, 2014, 09:28:40 AM
^  Wow, I never knew (or had even heard rumors) of LBJ being being that much of a cad. 




As for myself, I just started Crown of Swords (book 7 in the Wheel of Time series) this morning.  My journey through the slog has officially begun (although it's still moving along well enough at the moment)... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 09, 2014, 09:53:30 AM
Quote from: Martok on June 09, 2014, 09:28:40 AM
^  Wow, I never knew (or had even heard rumors) of LBJ being being that much of a cad. 


Me, either. Which makes me wonder if the author can be sued by Johnson's heirs for revealing that kind of stuff, so I thought it must be public knowledge already and I'm just only now learning of it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 09, 2014, 11:26:52 AM
Airborne - The Great War and Modern Memory is one of my favorite all time books...read it about 10 years ago for school.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 09, 2014, 08:24:16 PM
I finished Tolkien's Book of Lost Tales Vol. 1 last night.  I'm going to call it a thumbs down.  I think, if you're into that kind of stuff, it would be best to just stick with the Silmirillion.  BoLT is basically just early drafts of the stories in Silm and a whole bunch of exposition by Tolkien's son. 

If you are super into Tolkien and really want to see the genesis of Silm then maybe it's worth it.

Overall I don't feel compelled to dive right into Vol. 2. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 09, 2014, 08:26:46 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on June 09, 2014, 09:53:30 AM
Quote from: Martok on June 09, 2014, 09:28:40 AM
^  Wow, I never knew (or had even heard rumors) of LBJ being being that much of a cad. 


Me, either. Which makes me wonder if the author can be sued by Johnson's heirs for revealing that kind of stuff, so I thought it must be public knowledge already and I'm just only now learning of it.

I had heard that Johnson was a womanizer.  Hadn't heard he had been caught balls deep in a sexratry though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 09, 2014, 08:39:41 PM
Maybe that explains the term Johnson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 09, 2014, 08:51:56 PM
ha
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 09, 2014, 10:01:06 PM
going through House Of Steel, an Honorverse companion book.  pretty good so far.  the first half is a stand alone story which is interesting if your into the series.  the rest of the book is a history and tech guide of the story's universe.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 10, 2014, 03:43:08 AM
Quote from: Toonces on June 09, 2014, 08:24:16 PM
I finished Tolkien's Book of Lost Tales Vol. 1 last night.  I'm going to call it a thumbs down.  I think, if you're into that kind of stuff, it would be best to just stick with the Silmirillion.  BoLT is basically just early drafts of the stories in Silm and a whole bunch of exposition by Tolkien's son. 

If you are super into Tolkien and really want to see the genesis of Silm then maybe it's worth it.

Overall I don't feel compelled to dive right into Vol. 2.
Thanks for the mini-review Toonces.  While I've had a lifelong fascination/love for the Tolkien-verse (well, for almost the last two decades, at any rate), I've never been certain whether or not I wanted to check out the Lost Tales.  From your description, I'm probably better off passing on it; while I enjoy certain aspects of world-building, this sounds like it would be too dry/dull for my tastes. 




Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 09, 2014, 10:01:06 PM
going through House Of Steel, an Honorverse companion book.  pretty good so far.  the first half is a stand alone story which is interesting if your into the series.  the rest of the book is a history and tech guide of the story's universe.
I've had a couple other people say they've enjoyed this one as well.  It takes place earlier on in Manticore's history, yes? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 10, 2014, 08:07:27 AM
it starts 50 years or so before the series story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 10, 2014, 03:54:14 PM
'Bitter Victory' is proving to be a most interesting read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 10, 2014, 04:06:59 PM
the story of Mirth's sex life?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 10, 2014, 04:15:16 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 10, 2014, 04:06:59 PM
the story of Mirth's sex life?

...volume 16
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 10, 2014, 09:04:27 PM
Not-incidentally, my Dad finished the WoT series a few days ago, and now is looking for something else, this time in epic science-fiction.

Being an old Navy guy, I thought he might like the Honor Harrington series -- which some fans happen to be discussing right now again in this thread! I SHALL TAKE THIS AS A SIGN!  :D

Recommendations on where he should start (to see if he likes it) and proceed (in case he does)?

Edited to add: they'll have to be Kindle, though. Or not heavy books -- he's decided to heck with large physical books anymore.  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 10, 2014, 09:23:28 PM
the first 2 books in the HH series are free on kindle.  and he needs to state with Basilisk Station.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 10, 2014, 09:25:52 PM
http://www.amazon.com/Basilisk-Station-Honor-Harrington-Book-ebook/dp/B00ARPJBS0/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1402453529&sr=1-1&keywords=honor+harrington+in+order
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 10, 2014, 09:26:31 PM
the whole series in order:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_4_4?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=honor+harrington+in+order&sprefix=hono%2Cnull%2C200
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 11, 2014, 04:42:58 AM
I am about to start reading Stalin: The First In-Depth Biography Based on Explosive New Documents from Russia's Secret Archives by Ėdvard Radzinskiĭ.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 11, 2014, 07:22:58 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 11, 2014, 04:42:58 AM
I am about to start reading Stalin: The First In-Depth Biography Based on Explosive New Documents from Russia's Secret Archives by Ėdvard Radzinskiĭ.

Sounds like the documentary Russia's War: Blood on the Snow.


Also, thanks Star!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 11, 2014, 07:25:33 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 10, 2014, 09:23:28 PM
the first 2 books in the HH series are free on kindle.  and he needs to state with Basilisk Station.

I'm seeing only the first book for free, but that's okay.  :) He'll be able to tell from that whether he likes the concept and execution or not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 11, 2014, 07:27:08 AM
Incidentally, I asked this in another thread as well, but if I wanted to start him on WH40K on Kindle (if that's even possible), what would fans recommend?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 11, 2014, 07:33:19 AM
Greybriar please post what you think of the Stalin bio. I have part one of a massive Chruchill bio and part one of a massive Hitler bio ready to go, I just need to mentally prepare myself for the slog.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 11, 2014, 07:42:19 AM
Which Hitler bio, Gus?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 11, 2014, 09:49:44 AM
I finished the next to most recent Harry Turtledove "World War Two started early" books.  It was mediocre.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 11, 2014, 10:00:44 AM
Quote from: airboy on June 11, 2014, 09:49:44 AM
I finished the next to most recent Harry Turtledove "World War Two started early" books.  It was mediocre.

All of his books are mediocre. He has some cool ideas, but the execution, not so much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 11, 2014, 11:22:23 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 11, 2014, 07:33:19 AM
Greybriar please post what you think of the Stalin bio.

Ditto.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on June 11, 2014, 12:23:15 PM
I've got that Statlin bio on my ereader as well.  I'm not finished yet.  Picked it up when it was on special from Chapters/Indigo over here.

I should read the forward again, but I think this might have originally been written in Russian.  It's long, but very descriptive about his early life (I just made it to Lenin's will).  There's humour and anecdotes that might make more sense in Russian than in English possibly.  I usually pick it up when I'm on Transatlantic flights. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 11, 2014, 01:23:54 PM
Banzai I've got the first book of Ian Kershaw's two book bio, Hubris.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 11, 2014, 04:03:45 PM
Turtledove has two very good books IMHO:
Day of Infamy
The Man With the Iron Heart

The Man With the Iron Heart was one of the most plauible alt-WW2 european endings I have read.  It closely parallels some of the occurances during the Iraq War during the Bush II presidency which irritated some readers.  But as a military strategy book to overthrow a military occupation of a defeated country - the whole premise of the book was quite good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 11, 2014, 05:29:11 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 11, 2014, 09:49:44 AM
I finished the next to most recent Harry Turtledove "World War Two started early" books.  It was mediocre.

How were the other ones? I've been meaning to read them but have not gotten to it. I currently have Turtledove's 'The Man with the Iron Heart' on deck but I wonder if it will have lost some of it's parallel timeliness now that situation in Iraq has become less centered on the US presence there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 11, 2014, 07:02:13 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 11, 2014, 11:22:23 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 11, 2014, 07:33:19 AM
Greybriar please post what you think of the Stalin bio.

Ditto.

The book is about 600 pages long and I don't spend much time reading each day, so it will be quite awhile before I've finished with it (too many PC games to play and movies to watch). I've barely scratched the surface. But I find it interesting and have enjoyed what I've read so far.

Quote from: JasonPratt on June 11, 2014, 07:22:58 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 11, 2014, 04:42:58 AM
I am about to start reading Stalin: The First In-Depth Biography Based on Explosive New Documents from Russia's Secret Archives by Ėdvard Radzinskiĭ.

Sounds like the documentary Russia's War: Blood on the Snow....

I didn't see Ėdvard Radzinskiĭ's name anywhere in that title's description, but the subject matter is similar. So go figure.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 12, 2014, 10:31:23 PM
I'm reading several books at once right now, but what is more interesting is what I'm not reading.

I have all three of Rick Atkinson's Liberation Trilogy books.  I read about 75 pages of Army at Dawn before I shelved it; I read 95% of The Day of Battle but didn't quite finish it.  Last week I finally started The Guns at Last Light, but after the D-Day landings part I've shelved it.

The books look great on my shelf, all nestled together, but man, I just do not like Atkinson's writing style at all.  He has this way of saying, "One soldier said this.  Another soldier said that.  A sailor was overheard saying this.  That, said another sailor."  And so on.  For some reason, these little bits inserted into the narrative just grate on my nerves big time. 

Anyway, I'm moving on.  I read Stephen Ambrose's D-Day, so I know the gist of the fight, and how it ends.  I do want to read a good western front WW2 book, though.   ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 13, 2014, 11:24:00 AM
I would recommend 'Decision in Normandy' by Carlo D'este, and 'After Normandy' by James.J.Carafano.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 13, 2014, 11:41:58 AM
Six Armies in Normandy by John Keegan is a good one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 13, 2014, 12:18:32 PM
^Yes, indeed it is.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 13, 2014, 12:34:55 PM
John Keegan was a great writer. I'm about to start The First World War by him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 13, 2014, 02:12:13 PM
Quote from: Martok on June 09, 2014, 09:28:40 AM
As for myself, I just started Crown of Swords (book 7 in the Wheel of Time series) this morning.  My journey through the slog has officially begun (although it's still moving along well enough at the moment)...
So either the slog doesn't begin until the second half of the book, or Crown of Swords is a much better read than I remembered.  I'm already halfway through, and it's not dragged for me at all yet.  Keeping my fingers crossed this continues! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on June 13, 2014, 04:56:55 PM
Quote from: bob48 on June 13, 2014, 11:24:00 AM
I would recommend 'Decision in Normandy' by Carlo D'este

Just picked this one out for book #1 of my summer reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 13, 2014, 04:59:47 PM
^Its a very good book. I'm about half way through his book on the Sicily Campaign, 'Bitter Victory' and its also proving to be an excellent read. Highly recommended.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 13, 2014, 05:03:36 PM
Just started The Big Book of Porn, Vol. 27.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on June 13, 2014, 07:09:35 PM
Quote from: bob48 on June 13, 2014, 04:59:47 PM
^Its a very good book. I'm about half way through his book on the Sicily Campaign, 'Bitter Victory' and its also proving to be an excellent read. Highly recommended.

Thanks for the recommendation.  I really enjoyed his Patton and Churchill books so I assume I will enjoy these just as much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 15, 2014, 10:42:45 AM
Quote from: Martok on June 13, 2014, 02:12:13 PM
Quote from: Martok on June 09, 2014, 09:28:40 AM
As for myself, I just started Crown of Swords (book 7 in the Wheel of Time series) this morning.  My journey through the slog has officially begun (although it's still moving along well enough at the moment)...
So either the slog doesn't begin until the second half of the book, or Crown of Swords is a much better read than I remembered.  I'm already halfway through, and it's not been dragged for me at all yet.  Keeping my fingers crossed this continues!

ACoS was shorter than LoC if I recall correctly, and the structure indicates they were probably intended originally to be one book, so ja it clips along pretty well. I don't remember thinking it was a slog exactly the first time I read it, I was only horribly disappointed about nothing much important really happening in it. The Supergirl portions in Ebou Dar are the sloggiest (relatively) because they make no progress until suddenly the end; but Mat lightens that up a lot. (And Birgitte to a lesser extent. Clearly Mat and Birgi should have been a couple but I'm also kind of glad RJ didn't go that route -- partly because that would have undermined her devotion to Cain for no good reason, and partly because that would have been far too much awesome concentrated in one place and would have completely taken over the series.  8) But also because I think her not being a romantic interest helps him grow as a character.)

To be fair I do also like the Rand-political things, of which this is basically Book 2 of 3. That could be sloggy for other people.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 15, 2014, 01:35:07 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 15, 2014, 10:42:45 AM
Quote from: Martok on June 13, 2014, 02:12:13 PM
Quote from: Martok on June 09, 2014, 09:28:40 AM
As for myself, I just started Crown of Swords (book 7 in the Wheel of Time series) this morning.  My journey through the slog has officially begun (although it's still moving along well enough at the moment)...
So either the slog doesn't begin until the second half of the book, or Crown of Swords is a much better read than I remembered.  I'm already halfway through, and it's not dragged for me at all yet.  Keeping my fingers crossed this continues!

ACoS was shorter than LoC if I recall correctly, and the structure indicates they were probably intended originally to be one book, so ja it clips along pretty well. I don't remember thinking it was a slog exactly the first time I read it, I was only horribly disappointed about nothing much important really happening in it. The Supergirl portions in Ebou Dar are the sloggiest (relatively) because they make no progress until suddenly the end; but Mat lightens that up a lot. (And Birgitte to a lesser extent. Clearly Mat and Birgi should have been a couple but I'm also kind of glad RJ didn't go that route -- partly because that would have undermined her devotion to Cain for no good reason, and partly because that would have been far too much awesome concentrated in one place and would have completely taken over the series.  8) But also because I think her not being a romantic interest helps him grow as a character.)

To be fair I do also like the Rand-political things, of which this is basically Book 2 of 3. That could be sloggy for other people.
Actually, it does appear I may have spoken just a little too soon (and that the slog, does, in fact, begin around book's halfway point)... 

The whole scene where Elayne and Nyneave, ahem, apologize to Mat takes *way* too long (and is just as painful to read as I remembered).  Following that, I'm now reading the chapter that introduces the Circle/Kin...which I had to stop in the middle of.  Yes, the bits with Mat are definitely entertaining, but man I'd forgotten just how...rambling the chapters regarding the Supergirls and Ebou Dar can be. 

Still, I can't complain too much yet.  Even with the latest slowdown, the pacing in CoS has been much better than I'd remembered -- so far, at least! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 16, 2014, 08:28:01 AM
I'm always surprised at how much I don't hate that book when I reread it.  ;D

Ditto for The Path of Daggers coming up next. So there's hope.

But man, when you get to WH and CoT, you might as well just go read Leigh Butler's chapter recaps for free at Tor.com, as they'll be much more entertaining.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 16, 2014, 11:17:29 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 16, 2014, 08:28:01 AM
I'm always surprised at how much I don't hate that book when I reread it.  ;D

Ditto for The Path of Daggers coming up next. So there's hope.
Yeah, that's what I seem to recall as well.  I don't think I'll feel compelled to do too much skimming -- a little, but not much -- until I get to books 9-10. 



Quote from: JasonPratt on June 16, 2014, 08:28:01 AM
But man, when you get to WH and CoT, you might as well just go read Leigh Butler's chapter recaps for free at Tor.com, as they'll be much more entertaining.
I'll keep that in mind when I get to them.  I'm going to try *really* hard to just get through both those books on my own, but it's good to know I have an "out" if I need one.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 16, 2014, 04:40:19 PM
In a fit of pure nostalgia, I just picked up the compilation of the first 5 'John Carter of Mars' books for the Kindle...for £0.74 :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 16, 2014, 10:29:36 PM
Just finished Leviathan Wakes and Viper Pilot, and I am in the middle of reading The Defense of Moscow 1941 and The Mote in God's Eye.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 16, 2014, 11:00:44 PM
I've been reading a lot of ASUS manuals and forums guides.
man has technology advanced....
and while I know this isn't the bleeding edge of whats out there is more then enough for a good 3 or 4 years minimum.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 18, 2014, 02:11:39 PM
Finished up Niven and Pournelle's The Mote in God's Eye last night, and I am starting on Spin by Robert Wilson. Comtemplating throwing $70 to the black library for the Eisenhorn / Ravenor ebundle. $260 gets you the whole Horus Heresy ebundle. Yikes. Recently picked up Lucifer's Hammer by Niven and Pournelle, and The Butcher of Anderson Station by James S.A. Corey so they will probably be next in the list for the sci-fi reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 18, 2014, 06:02:39 PM
Just finished A Sword Into Darkness.  A Sci-Fi about a billioniare that builds his own starship to defend earth from an alien invasion when the government won't believe him.  Good story and only $0.99 at B&N. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 18, 2014, 09:03:48 PM
It occurs to me that we may want to explore the idea of a GH lending library.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2014, 07:19:37 AM
Digital only, or real books too?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 19, 2014, 06:17:01 PM
Whatever works. With Amazon prime and Kindle you can lend books: Lend or borrow Kindle books (http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/ref=amb_link_357435222_6?ie=UTF8&nodeId=200549320)

We could also exchange books using media mail which is fairly cheap in the USA.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 20, 2014, 01:11:56 PM
I could open up my own book store with what is in my to-read stack. Two stores with my have-read stack.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on June 20, 2014, 02:03:10 PM
I have a massive yet to read list aswell. I started to burn out on WW1 and WW2 hence the many unfinished books. None of them aren't finished because they are no good either. So bought Nightlords omnibus a WH40K book and loved it so bought a few more as you can see:). Not as bad as my Dad, he has well over a hundred books he hasn't read and he reads slow. Prob wont live long enough to read them all. He says he collects them, drives my Mum nuts. It's not even like I want to read them either. All thrillers, lots of Wilbur Smith etc etc.

WH40K
The Grey Knights Omnibus
Blood Angels Omnibus Vol1
Blood Angles Omnibus Vol2
The Founding
The Saint (had this for ages, bought it not realising it was the second. Managed to get a second hand copy of The Founding and it's in more or less perfect condition)
Ultramarines Omnibus

WW1 and WW2
Stalingrad Cauldron
Besieged (not finished it yet)
Into Oblivion (again need to finish it
German Army on the Western front 1915 (The latest Jack Sheldon book. The series has been superb))
Otherside of the Wire Vol 2 (need to finish i)
It Was the War of the Trenches (Graphic Novel)
Fear (WW1 novel)
Crack of Doom (same author as Cross of Iron. Also called Savage Mountain, so don't get fooled as I did and buy both)
Moscow by Theodore Plievier (His Stalingrad novel was excellent). http://www.amazon.co.uk/Stalingrad-Theodor-Plievier/dp/0583124674/ref=tmm_pap_title_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1403291487&sr=1-2 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Stalingrad-Theodor-Plievier/dp/0583124674/ref=tmm_pap_title_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1403291487&sr=1-2)
Berlin by  Theodore Plievier
Playing the Game
Six Weeks (need to finish)
Eastern Inferno
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 20, 2014, 05:44:36 PM
I finally  started 'On Basilisk Station'. I have to admit, it is better than I expected.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 20, 2014, 08:23:04 PM
That.  Is.  FREAKISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 


I pulled up to a customers house this morning and she was having a yard sale.  She had several boxes of paperbacks, a dollar a piece or three for two bucks.  So, being the addict I am, I looked through them.  I found one I had never heard of that looked promising.  I also found the first 'Thieve's World,' anthology and a copy of 'On Basilisk Station!'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 21, 2014, 07:56:30 AM
I have a number of WoT hard copies I don't need anymore (since I have them on Kindle now), paperback up through book 5 (I started collecting around the time Book 6 was released), and then 1st edition hardbacks up through Book 9 at least maybe Book 10 (I'm not at the house and I don't recall if I bought Book 10 sight unseen, but I know I held off bothering to read it until the series finally ended.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 22, 2014, 02:07:09 AM
I finished up Robert Wilson's Spin tonight. Starting to read Neil Gaiman's American Gods.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 22, 2014, 06:45:57 AM
Quote from: vyshka on June 22, 2014, 02:07:09 AM
I finished up Robert Wilson's Spin tonight. Starting to read Neil Gaiman's American Gods.

American Gods is one of my favorite books. I re-bought it again in hardcover just so I could have it up on my favorites shelf to pull down and read again every few years.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 22, 2014, 12:46:55 PM
Am now on Path of Daggers, book 8 in the Wheel of Time series.  There were a few chapters in CoS where the pacing was sluggish, but overall it honestly was still just fine. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 22, 2014, 04:28:55 PM
I'm slowly working my way through The Knights of the Cross, or Krzyzacy.  It sort of slogged through the second quarter of the book, but right after the 50% mark it has become very exciting. 

Kind of a tough read until you get used to Sienkiewicz's style of writing (and the translation of course), but typically worth sticking with.

Oh, did I mention it's free for Kindle on Amazon?  http://www.amazon.com/Knights-Cross-Krzyzacy-Henryk-Sienkiewicz-ebook/dp/B004TQ6HCQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1403472341&sr=1-1&keywords=knights+of+the+cross

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 22, 2014, 05:09:04 PM
Quote from: Toonces on June 22, 2014, 04:28:55 PM

Oh, did I mention it's free for Kindle on Amazon?  http://www.amazon.com/Knights-Cross-Krzyzacy-Henryk-Sienkiewicz-ebook/dp/B004TQ6HCQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1403472341&sr=1-1&keywords=knights+of+the+cross

You did now! Thanks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 22, 2014, 08:05:05 PM
Reading Invasion Alaska.  The premise for it is so-so believable, but the writing is really bad.  Author doesn't seem to know much about the US military, which is really taking a lot away from the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 23, 2014, 09:44:26 AM
^Can you give some humorous examples? The first thing I ever learned in a writing class was 'don't write what you don't know.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 23, 2014, 10:03:01 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on June 22, 2014, 06:45:57 AM
Quote from: vyshka on June 22, 2014, 02:07:09 AM
I finished up Robert Wilson's Spin tonight. Starting to read Neil Gaiman's American Gods.

American Gods is one of my favorite books. I re-bought it again in hardcover just so I could have it up on my favorites shelf to pull down and read again every few years.

Ditto.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 23, 2014, 10:04:44 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 20, 2014, 08:23:04 PM
That.  Is.  FREAKISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 


I pulled up to a customers house this morning and she was having a yard sale.  She had several boxes of paperbacks, a dollar a piece or three for two bucks.  So, being the addict I am, I looked through them.  I found one I had never heard of that looked promising.  I also found the first 'Thieve's World,' anthology and a copy of 'On Basilisk Station!'

Ah - one of the horrors of my life.  My allergies are so bad that I cannot read old paperbacks (and some old hardbacks).  I have to replace paperbacks I wish to reread about every 10 years due to paper deterioration.  Kindles are awesome for this problem.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 23, 2014, 10:07:58 AM
I finished 2 new L.E. Modesitt in the last 10 days: Rex Regis (Imager series) and Cyador's Heirs (Saga of Recluce).

If you like Modesitt's work - both are excellent.  Cyador's Heirs is the first in this time period in the Saga of Recluse.  Rex Regis is the 5th (?) book in that series - so if you pick it up you will probably be lost if you have not read the earlier books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 23, 2014, 11:34:09 AM
On this cruise last week I had plenty of time for reading, so I went through Steve Martin's Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life, which was pretty interesting. He focused on his standup career and only briefly spoke about The Jerk, but it was a great read.

Then I got through Grisham's The Litigators, which was a great one too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 23, 2014, 02:52:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 23, 2014, 09:44:26 AM
^Can you give some humorous examples? The first thing I ever learned in a writing class was 'don't write what you don't know.'

QuoteNational Guard units never used to have tanks
Um, pretty sure this is wrong and that many Guard units have had tanks for years.

Later in the book, he has two American carriers ambushed in their home port and destroyed, with their aircraft on board.  A carriers air wing is not on board while in its home port.  Planes cannot launch or land while a carrier is in port.

The premise of the book is that China has taken control of Siberia and that American has turned isolationist.  Ok, I buy that.  The US is also in an economic down turn because China dumped it's US Treasuries.  Maybe.
Little Ice Age has kicked in, China cannot feed itself.  US does not have enough energy.  But the two cannot agree to trade food for energy. 

I could buy the premise, it's just that the writing is so horrible.  Dialogue is bad.  Characters are uninteresting. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 23, 2014, 04:31:47 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 23, 2014, 02:52:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 23, 2014, 09:44:26 AM
^Can you give some humorous examples? The first thing I ever learned in a writing class was 'don't write what you don't know.'

QuoteNational Guard units never used to have tanks
Um, pretty sure this is wrong and that many Guard units have had tanks for years.

Later in the book, he has two American carriers ambushed in their home port and destroyed, with their aircraft on board.  A carriers air wing is not on board while in its home port.  Planes cannot launch or land while a carrier is in port.

The premise of the book is that China has taken control of Siberia and that American has turned isolationist.  Ok, I buy that.  The US is also in an economic down turn because China dumped it's US Treasuries.  Maybe.
Little Ice Age has kicked in, China cannot feed itself.  US does not have enough energy.  But the two cannot agree to trade food for energy. 

I could buy the premise, it's just that the writing is so horrible.  Dialogue is bad.  Characters are uninteresting.

I read this too, and the follow up, Invasion California. Overall, they read like a hyped up AAR for a near future RTS game. The author does a good job of keeping the tension running through the whole story, and the plot doesn't necessarily go like you expect, but in the the military realism problems are just glaring. Canadians with Bradleys? Carriers moored in San Francisco?

The author does get some things right about the direction of near future technology, like directed energy weapons and rail guns, but I'm oh considering picking up the third book to see where the story goes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 23, 2014, 05:02:49 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 23, 2014, 04:31:47 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 23, 2014, 02:52:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 23, 2014, 09:44:26 AM
^Can you give some humorous examples? The first thing I ever learned in a writing class was 'don't write what you don't know.'

QuoteNational Guard units never used to have tanks
Um, pretty sure this is wrong and that many Guard units have had tanks for years.

Later in the book, he has two American carriers ambushed in their home port and destroyed, with their aircraft on board.  A carriers air wing is not on board while in its home port.  Planes cannot launch or land while a carrier is in port.

The premise of the book is that China has taken control of Siberia and that American has turned isolationist.  Ok, I buy that.  The US is also in an economic down turn because China dumped it's US Treasuries.  Maybe.
Little Ice Age has kicked in, China cannot feed itself.  US does not have enough energy.  But the two cannot agree to trade food for energy. 

I could buy the premise, it's just that the writing is so horrible.  Dialogue is bad.  Characters are uninteresting.

I read this too, and the follow up, Invasion California. Overall, they read like a hyped up AAR for a near future RTS game. The author does a good job of keeping the tension running through the whole story, and the plot doesn't necessarily go like you expect, but in the the military realism problems are just glaring. Canadians with Bradleys? Carriers moored in San Francisco?

The author does get some things right about the direction of near future technology, like directed energy weapons and rail guns, but I'm oh considering picking up the third book to see where the story goes.

I'll finish this one, and will probably try the others.  Just not sure how it got 4 out a 5 stars from readers on both Amazon and B&N.  But it is $2.99, so....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 23, 2014, 07:28:53 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 23, 2014, 10:04:44 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 20, 2014, 08:23:04 PM
That.  Is.  FREAKISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 


I pulled up to a customers house this morning and she was having a yard sale.  She had several boxes of paperbacks, a dollar a piece or three for two bucks.  So, being the addict I am, I looked through them.  I found one I had never heard of that looked promising.  I also found the first 'Thieve's World,' anthology and a copy of 'On Basilisk Station!'

Ah - one of the horrors of my life.  My allergies are so bad that I cannot read old paperbacks (and some old hardbacks).  I have to replace paperbacks I wish to reread about every 10 years due to paper deterioration.  Kindles are awesome for this problem.


That makes me sad for you, Airboy.  There are very few things in life I enjoy more than reading a good book.  And regardless of price, I do not now, nor any time in the near future, have the funds to buy an e-reader.  If I did, it would sit there for lack of funds to buy books.  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 23, 2014, 07:53:54 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 23, 2014, 07:28:53 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 23, 2014, 10:04:44 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 20, 2014, 08:23:04 PM
That.  Is.  FREAKISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 


I pulled up to a customers house this morning and she was having a yard sale.  She had several boxes of paperbacks, a dollar a piece or three for two bucks.  So, being the addict I am, I looked through them.  I found one I had never heard of that looked promising.  I also found the first 'Thieve's World,' anthology and a copy of 'On Basilisk Station!'

Ah - one of the horrors of my life.  My allergies are so bad that I cannot read old paperbacks (and some old hardbacks).  I have to replace paperbacks I wish to reread about every 10 years due to paper deterioration.  Kindles are awesome for this problem.


That makes me sad for you, Airboy.  There are very few things in life I enjoy more than reading a good book.  And regardless of price, I do not now, nor any time in the near future, have the funds to buy an e-reader.  If I did, it would sit there for lack of funds to buy books.  :(

I'll keep you in mind when I start ditching/replacing my David Weber books.  Almost all are in paperback, and they are reaching their "expiration date."  I'll mail you a stack when I discard them. 

Wish I had known earlier - I replaced all of my Hammers Slammers books when they reissued them on acid free paper.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 23, 2014, 07:55:41 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 23, 2014, 04:31:47 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 23, 2014, 02:52:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 23, 2014, 09:44:26 AM
^Can you give some humorous examples? The first thing I ever learned in a writing class was 'don't write what you don't know.'

QuoteNational Guard units never used to have tanks
Um, pretty sure this is wrong and that many Guard units have had tanks for years.

Later in the book, he has two American carriers ambushed in their home port and destroyed, with their aircraft on board.  A carriers air wing is not on board while in its home port.  Planes cannot launch or land while a carrier is in port.

The premise of the book is that China has taken control of Siberia and that American has turned isolationist.  Ok, I buy that.  The US is also in an economic down turn because China dumped it's US Treasuries.  Maybe.
Little Ice Age has kicked in, China cannot feed itself.  US does not have enough energy.  But the two cannot agree to trade food for energy. 

I could buy the premise, it's just that the writing is so horrible.  Dialogue is bad.  Characters are uninteresting.

I read this too, and the follow up, Invasion California. Overall, they read like a hyped up AAR for a near future RTS game. The author does a good job of keeping the tension running through the whole story, and the plot doesn't necessarily go like you expect, but in the the military realism problems are just glaring. Canadians with Bradleys? Carriers moored in San Francisco?

The author does get some things right about the direction of near future technology, like directed energy weapons and rail guns, but I'm oh considering picking up the third book to see where the story goes.

That would be a game stopper for me.  US has more coal reserves than anyone.  And in a "mini ice age" it boggles the mind that even the liberals in the USA would not use coal during a near depression or a major conflict.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 23, 2014, 08:14:51 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 23, 2014, 07:28:53 PM

That makes me sad for you, Airboy.  There are very few things in life I enjoy more than reading a good book.  And regardless of price, I do not now, nor any time in the near future, have the funds to buy an e-reader.  If I did, it would sit there for lack of funds to buy books.  :(

Ok, I understand that money might be tight, but c'mon...

http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Ereader-ebook-reader/dp/B007HCCNJU/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1403572279&sr=1-5&keywords=kindle+paperwhite

$70 for a new Kindle Paperwhite and free Prime shipping.  Surely you can swing $70. 

My Kindle may be my most favoritest possession.  The amount of books you can get for it, for free, from the public domain is staggering and makes it worth the purchase price for that alone.  I very highly recommend it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 23, 2014, 08:15:47 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 23, 2014, 07:55:41 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 23, 2014, 04:31:47 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 23, 2014, 02:52:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 23, 2014, 09:44:26 AM
^Can you give some humorous examples? The first thing I ever learned in a writing class was 'don't write what you don't know.'

QuoteNational Guard units never used to have tanks
Um, pretty sure this is wrong and that many Guard units have had tanks for years.

Later in the book, he has two American carriers ambushed in their home port and destroyed, with their aircraft on board.  A carriers air wing is not on board while in its home port.  Planes cannot launch or land while a carrier is in port.

The premise of the book is that China has taken control of Siberia and that American has turned isolationist.  Ok, I buy that.  The US is also in an economic down turn because China dumped it's US Treasuries.  Maybe.
Little Ice Age has kicked in, China cannot feed itself.  US does not have enough energy.  But the two cannot agree to trade food for energy. 

I could buy the premise, it's just that the writing is so horrible.  Dialogue is bad.  Characters are uninteresting.

I read this too, and the follow up, Invasion California. Overall, they read like a hyped up AAR for a near future RTS game. The author does a good job of keeping the tension running through the whole story, and the plot doesn't necessarily go like you expect, but in the the military realism problems are just glaring. Canadians with Bradleys? Carriers moored in San Francisco?

The author does get some things right about the direction of near future technology, like directed energy weapons and rail guns, but I'm oh considering picking up the third book to see where the story goes.

That would be a game stopper for me.  US has more coal reserves than anyone.  And in a "mini ice age" it boggles the mind that even the liberals in the USA would not use coal during a near depression or a major conflict.

Yep, it was stated in the beginning time line that the US

QuoteAmerican energy hunger sweeps away the last environmental concerns.  All possible energy sources are exploited.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 23, 2014, 08:37:16 PM
Quote from: Toonces on June 23, 2014, 08:14:51 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 23, 2014, 07:28:53 PM

That makes me sad for you, Airboy.  There are very few things in life I enjoy more than reading a good book.  And regardless of price, I do not now, nor any time in the near future, have the funds to buy an e-reader.  If I did, it would sit there for lack of funds to buy books.  :(

Ok, I understand that money might be tight, but c'mon...

http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Ereader-ebook-reader/dp/B007HCCNJU/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1403572279&sr=1-5&keywords=kindle+paperwhite

$70 for a new Kindle Paperwhite and free Prime shipping.  Surely you can swing $70. 

My Kindle may be my most favoritest possession.  The amount of books you can get for it, for free, from the public domain is staggering and makes it worth the purchase price for that alone.  I very highly recommend it!

That is not the paperwhite. Paperwhite shows a $119 price up above there. Not sure why the search brought that up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 23, 2014, 09:29:54 PM
@ Toonces:  I will admit, I do exaggerate.  But not by much.  $70 would constitute a big investment for me.  $119 I would have to save for.  And the funny thing is, even looking at all my expenditures for the month, there isn't much I could cut down.  Oh, sure, I could do without cable.  Or a cell phone, but, other than that, there's not much fat in the budget.  And just to be sure noone takes this as crying, 'poor pitiful me,' I like my life and the comfort level I am in.  I don't want for anything.  I eat well.  Have a roof over my head.  A job I like.  It's all good.


@ Airboy:  That's a generous offer, sir.  When the day comes that you have to take that route, look me up.  Heck, if the timing is right, I might even be able to meet you and pick them up.  We are neighbors, of a sort.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 23, 2014, 10:57:02 PM
I just finished Mirth's diary chapter named "I am the walrus".

2 choo's out of 5.  I just didn't see the need for a Godzilla costume when the core of the story was the waitress's daily drama.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 24, 2014, 12:46:56 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 23, 2014, 09:29:54 PM
@ Toonces:  I will admit, I do exaggerate.  But not by much.  $70 would constitute a big investment for me.  $119 I would have to save for.  And the funny thing is, even looking at all my expenditures for the month, there isn't much I could cut down.  Oh, sure, I could do without cable.  Or a cell phone, but, other than that, there's not much fat in the budget.  And just to be sure noone takes this as crying, 'poor pitiful me,' I like my life and the comfort level I am in.  I don't want for anything.  I eat well.  Have a roof over my head.  A job I like.  It's all good.


@ Airboy:  That's a generous offer, sir.  When the day comes that you have to take that route, look me up.  Heck, if the timing is right, I might even be able to meet you and pick them up.  We are neighbors, of a sort.

If at some point you do  buy a kindle, the paperwhite is definitely worth the extra $.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 24, 2014, 05:52:21 AM
MD,
If you can swing the cost of an e-reader you will find that there is enough free content out there, between the flash $0.00 sales on Amazon that folks post links to, the Baen Free Library, and project gutenberg just to name a few, that you may never have to buy an actual book for money in a long time. Check eBay for used kindles if you want to get a lower price. They also go on sale around holidays, making the basic ones more affordable. I've seen them as low as $49 new at those times. And there is free software out there to convert every form of ebook to just about every other so almost any e-reader can work for you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 24, 2014, 06:07:27 AM
That's what I love about this place, everyone looks out after everyone else.  Thanks for the tips, fellas.  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 24, 2014, 07:34:28 AM
the catch is that almost all of the books Ive gotten for free are the first book of a series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 24, 2014, 10:05:02 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 23, 2014, 10:57:02 PM
I just finished Mirth's diary chapter named "I am the walrus".

2 choo's out of 5.  I just didn't see the need for a Godzilla costume when the core of the story was the waitress's daily drama.

You entirely missed the symbolism of the Godzilla costume and how it relates to the futility of human interaction in today's digitized, material driven society.

Neanderthal.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 24, 2014, 06:07:23 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 24, 2014, 10:05:02 AM
You entirely missed the symbolism of the Godzilla costume and how it relates to the futility of human interaction in today's digitized, material driven society.

Neanderthal.

Did you just reconceptualize a quote from the Blue Oyster Cult there?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 07:33:41 PM
Go go Mirthzilla!

Am I really missing out by not getting an e-reader? I love me some 'real' books - the feel, the smell, no need for a charge...is it just me?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on June 24, 2014, 07:41:18 PM
same here - love me a fully stacked book case with all my reads in
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 08:11:06 PM
Library constructed of rich mahogany as well?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 24, 2014, 08:19:45 PM
Corinthian leather chairs
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 08:31:31 PM
Of course!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 24, 2014, 08:52:19 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 07:33:41 PM
Go go Mirthzilla!

Am I really missing out by not getting an e-reader? I love me some 'real' books - the feel, the smell, no need for a charge...is it just me?

I'm surprised at how quick I became a convert when I got the paperwhite last December. I have tons of physical books, but the paperwhite is now my preferred format. I guess the real test will be the next time I read the Wheel of Time series. I currently have the entire set plus the new spring book in hardcover.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 08:55:57 PM
What made you take the plunge in the first place?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 24, 2014, 09:30:06 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 08:55:57 PM
What made you take the plunge in the first place?

With the paperwhite it solved the problem of reading in bed at night while my wife is asleep. Book lights have always been a pain to use. I also needed to come up with an idea for a gift for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 24, 2014, 11:28:10 PM
^ This.  I like to read in bed at night before I go to sleep.  While it's easy enough to rest a book on a pillow on my belly, I like the ease of the Kindle because I can lay on my side, on my back, whatever and don't have to worry about blocking the light.  It's also very light and convenient.

Perhaps the biggest reason I enjoy my Kindle, though, is that it allows me to have a full library of books on me at any given time.  I typically am reading 3-4 books at the same time.  A lot of times I'm not sure what I want to read and having a whole collection available means I don't have to choose until I'm actually ready to read.  I can take it with me lunch and read while I eat, take it to the beach, whatever.  Going on a trip?  On a plane?  No need to lug around a heavy book, you can take 100 with you for the weight of the Kindle! 

Finally, like I said before, there are so many books available for free for Kindle that it is just absurd.  Any book pre-1923 is in the public domain so most of the classics are available for free download- things like Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Three Musketeers, Frankenstein, and so on and so on.  Most libraries have ebooks available to check out as well.  In my case, the Navy has an electronic library that is pretty well stocked and I'm always downloading free books from there.  And, don't forget that Amazon is always giving away books...I must have 20 free books that Peaceflower posted a while back. 

For the most part, I rarely buy books for my Kindle.  There is just so much available for free either at the library or just free that there's no point.  I do prefer to buy real books if I'm going to actually spend money, but I rarely do anymore. 

Of course if you get the Kindle Fire you also have just opened up the app world.  I use my Fire to listen to Howard Stern in the morning while I shower and get ready.  I don't think the Fire is necessarily the best android device for app-ing, but that's a whole other story. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 25, 2014, 12:03:53 AM
I was skeptical about the Kindle at first as well but for fiction, it's now my preferred format.  Great for reading at night and even better for long trips.  Nice and compact and holds a charge for a month. 

I don't like it for non-fiction as much as I like to be able to flip between appendices, maps, references, and the text and the Kindle doesn't do that as well as a physical book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 25, 2014, 06:27:31 AM
Maps and graphics are probably the e-ink readers' biggest Achilles Heel. A larger tablet such as the Kindle Fire 8" or Ipad Mini is better because the resolution lets you see the map, etc, better and you can zoom in. Flipping back and forth from a map on one page to text on an other can be a little more tedious on all devices (you don't have that finger-tip "it's right about here" feel) but you can bookmark a much used page and return to it with two or three clicks. Another option is to print out a map that gets used a lot and leave it on your nightstand. This is very helpful with books such as David Weber's Safehold series.

IIRC, Best-buy has the Kindle Fire HD (second to last model) on sale (at least as of yesterday). It's not the greatest all-around android tablet but it is pretty well devoted to reading books and watching movies/tv shows. You need an Amazon Prime membership to get the most out of it though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 25, 2014, 07:06:53 AM
I read at night in bed with a booklight religiously...every single night.  I never thought of it as a chore nor did I think of the booklight as a pain and The Wife hasn't complained...guess I am just lucky. These days my biggest problem is staying awakelong enough to make any progress.

The features you guys bring up above sound nice and all but they won't replace my love for real books anytime soon. If they stop producing real books well then I suppose I will have to get a reader and my dream of opening The Gus Library of Mahogany and Leather will die.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 25, 2014, 10:53:53 AM
For traveling - nothing beats a Kindle.

I buy more Kindle books than physical books now.  But a good part of this is my (and wife's) allergy problem with deteriorating paperbacks.  First edition (not book club) hardbacks are almost always printed on acid free paper - so they can stick around forever.

But the wife persuaded me that if I'm rebuying something, or if something is only available in paperback, that I should get the Kindle edition.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 25, 2014, 11:50:14 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 08:31:31 PM
Of course!

I read that in Raul Julia's voice.

Not sure how well that fits with Ricardo Montalban's rich Corinthian leather voice, but...

Quote from: Gusington on June 24, 2014, 08:55:57 PM
What made you take the plunge in the first place?

Parents bought me a paperwhite (not called that at the time) with a keyboard (because I despise having to pick at a keyscreen) several years ago for Christmas (plus a leather holder with built-in reading light.

It sat in a corner charging for a year, through the following Christmas. I'd feel guilty about not using it every once in a while but then I would go read a book and the guilt would subside somewhat. ;)

One day it occurred to me that it would be nice to use it to store some research texts, both in searchable doc-conversion formats and as pdfs (though the Paperwhite sucks moderately hard at presenting pdfs but still I can read them without needing to lug around a giant-ass computer).

Now I have no less than 300 texts on it (maybe more like 400 -- I don't have it with me at the moment), and adding more on a regular basis. Some are bought, some not. I rebought most of WoT for example for convenience during my ultimate re-read of it last year.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 25, 2014, 01:19:13 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 25, 2014, 11:50:14 AM

Parents bought me a paperwhite (not called that at the time) with a keyboard (because I despise having to pick at a keyscreen) several years ago for Christmas (plus a leather holder with built-in reading light.


Paperwhite is the kindle version with a backlit screen.



Another reason I like it is the form factor and weight - very easy to hold. weighs less than a lot of paperbacks, and currently probably has 2 bookcases worth of books stored in it. I have the original kindle fire as well and that isn't nearly as nice to hold as the kindle paperwhite. As someone else mentioned it is great for travelling as well.

The book light I had worked well enough with hardback books, but I would still need to turn the light towards the page I was reading. Reading a paperback with it though was more of a chore. With the paperwhite, the page itself is lit up and it doesn't strain your eyes at all. The screen for the fire being led, didn't bother me really (not like they tend to say it will for people), but I don't like it nearly as much for reading as the kindle. The E-ink display is so nice, that if I turn off the backlight it looks just like I am reading something printed on paper.

Don't get me wrong I still love regular books, have bookcases of them all over the house, and will continue buying them, but the kindle paperwhite is a joy to use.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 25, 2014, 02:05:29 PM
Logic points towards getting a digital reader but I'm just illogically resistant to.it. Allergies, research...I totally understand those reasons. And I do wrestle with my booklight on occasion but I tend to win and show it who"s boss.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 25, 2014, 02:34:48 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 25, 2014, 02:05:29 PM
Logic points towards getting a digital reader but I'm just illogically resistant to.it. Allergies, research...I totally understand those reasons. And I do wrestle with my booklight on occasion but I tend to win and show it who"s boss.

If you have a B&N near by you can go check out the Nooks.  Or if you have a Best Buy or Wal Mart, they both carry the Kindles and the Nooks in store.  Not as sure about the selection you'll find in Wal Mart, but the BB that I've been to have both.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 26, 2014, 06:53:18 AM
I've nearly finished Sojourn by R. A. Salvatore. I am really enjoying the books about Drizzt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 26, 2014, 07:24:43 AM
Quote from: vyshka on June 25, 2014, 01:19:13 PM
Paperwhite is the kindle version with a backlit screen.

So... wait, then what's the old version with the eInk version of an etch-a-sketch??
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 26, 2014, 07:25:56 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 26, 2014, 06:53:18 AM
I've nearly finished Sojourn by R. A. Salvatore. I am really enjoying the books about Drizzt.

I've been seriously thinking about going back and plowing through the whole series (which has added a bunch of books since I was last following it).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 26, 2014, 09:14:05 AM
I have a Nook, a first-gen Kindle, and a Kindle Paperwhite, and the Paperwhite is by far my favorite of the three.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on June 26, 2014, 11:46:05 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 18, 2014, 06:02:39 PM
Just finished A Sword Into Darkness.  A Sci-Fi about a billioniare that builds his own starship to defend earth from an alien invasion when the government won't believe him.  Good story and only $0.99 at B&N.

I really enjoyed this one too. The reasoning behind the alien invasion was quite inventive.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 26, 2014, 02:59:56 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 26, 2014, 07:24:43 AM
Quote from: vyshka on June 25, 2014, 01:19:13 PM
Paperwhite is the kindle version with a backlit screen.

So... wait, then what's the old version with the eInk version of an etch-a-sketch??

I just think they called the earlier versions a Kindle. The larger version was named something like Kindle DX. Then they came out with the Fire tablet, and last year the paperwhite with the backlit screen. I guess next up is a phone. :)

Has anyone tried the Nook competitor to the paperwhite, the glowlight? Looks nice, but as with all nooks for me it would be lacking the major feature of having access to the amazon kindle store. I guess the nook store could be as well stocked, but I doubt it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 26, 2014, 05:54:24 PM
The Nook store is actually Barnes&Noble. Not quite Amazon but not too rinky-dink either.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 26, 2014, 07:34:36 PM
Quote from: vyshka on June 26, 2014, 02:59:56 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 26, 2014, 07:24:43 AM
Quote from: vyshka on June 25, 2014, 01:19:13 PM
Paperwhite is the kindle version with a backlit screen.

So... wait, then what's the old version with the eInk version of an etch-a-sketch??

I just think they called the earlier versions a Kindle. The larger version was named something like Kindle DX. Then they came out with the Fire tablet, and last year the paperwhite with the backlit screen. I guess next up is a phone. :)

Has anyone tried the Nook competitor to the paperwhite, the glowlight? Looks nice, but as with all nooks for me it would be lacking the major feature of having access to the amazon kindle store. I guess the nook store could be as well stocked, but I doubt it.

I don't know about the Nook Glowlight, but the color Nooks all come with Google Play, and you can install Kindle reader on them.  I'm pretty sure the Kindle's are locked down and you cannot install Google Play.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 26, 2014, 09:04:05 PM
I dont see the need for a kindle if you have a decent enough smart phone.  I've found the font size that works best for me on mai Galaxy 3 and I don't need to lug around another bit of kit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 26, 2014, 09:38:32 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 26, 2014, 09:04:05 PM
I dont see the need for a kindle if you have a decent enough smart phone.  I've found the font size that works best for me on mai Galaxy 3 and I don't need to lug around another bit of kit.

I'm with you. I have the Kindle app on multiple computers and my phone. Works great and I have not felt the need for a dedicated e-reader.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 27, 2014, 05:22:09 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 26, 2014, 09:38:32 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 26, 2014, 09:04:05 PM
I dont see the need for a kindle if you have a decent enough smart phone.  I've found the font size that works best for me on mai Galaxy 3 and I don't need to lug around another bit of kit.

I'm with you. I have the Kindle app on multiple computers and my phone. Works great and I have not felt the need for a dedicated e-reader.

Wait a few years. Reading tiny font on a phone will get old fast unless you are lugging around one of those monster 'phablet' phones or you crank up the font until each page has only 8 words. Also, e-readers are nice and light and can be read in direct sun without a lot of strain.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 27, 2014, 09:39:53 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on June 27, 2014, 05:22:09 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 26, 2014, 09:38:32 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 26, 2014, 09:04:05 PM
I dont see the need for a kindle if you have a decent enough smart phone.  I've found the font size that works best for me on mai Galaxy 3 and I don't need to lug around another bit of kit.

I'm with you. I have the Kindle app on multiple computers and my phone. Works great and I have not felt the need for a dedicated e-reader.

Wait a few years. Reading tiny font on a phone will get old fast unless you are lugging around one of those monster 'phablet' phones or you crank up the font until each page has only 8 words. Also, e-readers are nice and light and can be read in direct sun without a lot of strain.

You guys need to start another thread.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 27, 2014, 12:15:57 PM
To get back on topic :), as stated above I started American Gods this week, but I got sidetracked and am in the middle of reading Playing at the World, which is a history of roleplaying games, D&D in particular. So at the moment I am currently working on American Gods, Playing at the World, and The Defense of Moscow 1941.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 27, 2014, 05:46:02 PM
Quote from: vyshka on June 27, 2014, 12:15:57 PM
To get back on topic :), as stated above I started American Gods this week, but I got sidetracked and am in the middle of reading Playing at the World, which is a history of roleplaying games, D&D in particular. So at the moment I am currently working on American Gods, Playing at the World, and The Defense of Moscow 1941.

Please do a book review of Playing at the World when you finish for grogheads. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 27, 2014, 07:33:56 PM
I read about 1/4 of Playing at the World (it's actually sitting right here next to me!).  Just based on that 1/4, if you are into D&D then you will enjoy the book.  The author goes into great detail about the origins and development of D&D, and how it ties into miniature wargaming.

It's a good, thorough book based on what I've read so far.  I recommend it.   O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 27, 2014, 09:51:31 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 27, 2014, 09:39:53 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on June 27, 2014, 05:22:09 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 26, 2014, 09:38:32 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 26, 2014, 09:04:05 PM
I dont see the need for a kindle if you have a decent enough smart phone.  I've found the font size that works best for me on mai Galaxy 3 and I don't need to lug around another bit of kit.

I'm with you. I have the Kindle app on multiple computers and my phone. Works great and I have not felt the need for a dedicated e-reader.

Wait a few years. Reading tiny font on a phone will get old fast unless you are lugging around one of those monster 'phablet' phones or you crank up the font until each page has only 8 words. Also, e-readers are nice and light and can be read in direct sun without a lot of strain.

You guys need to start another thread.
::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 28, 2014, 12:13:37 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51-deLsIXAL.jpg&hash=4de753135a83f0e88feaf60d925d410fe43333e1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 28, 2014, 01:12:23 AM
did you ever stop to consider that boob spelled backwards is boob?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 28, 2014, 07:25:49 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on June 28, 2014, 01:12:23 AM
did you ever stop to consider that boob spelled backwards is boob?


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.pandawhale.com%2F44848-keanu-reeves-whoa-gif-nOup.jpeg&hash=ceda72827a21e959e06330b4804a84b8231da21a)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 28, 2014, 08:44:08 AM
I thought boob spelled backwards was bawb.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 28, 2014, 12:58:06 PM
wabbbboo :uglystupid2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 28, 2014, 03:51:05 PM
boob spelled upside down is poop
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 28, 2014, 03:59:29 PM
under poopage?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on June 28, 2014, 04:27:28 PM
theres a google search weve not explored
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 28, 2014, 04:30:14 PM
No thanks
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 28, 2014, 04:31:37 PM
Not gonna do it...wouldn't be prudent!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 28, 2014, 09:16:16 PM
surprisingly as one word a google search came back with zero result.   :o
as two words the images are mundane and not related to the words at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 29, 2014, 10:37:28 AM
Almost halfway into Path of Daggers, I'm starting to wonder if I've had false memories implanted into me. 


Seriously, I'm not seeing the slog that everyone talks about books 7-10 being (and that I thought I remembered)...at least I haven't as of yet.  Or maybe the pacing in CoS and PoD *is*, in fact, slower than in the first six books, but because I was expecting it to be so much worse than it actually is, I'm pleasantly surprised the storylines are moving along as well as they are.  I don't know. 

Perhaps books 9 & 10 (Winter's Heart and Crossroads of Twilight) will still be brutally slow, and thus still ultimately "fulfill" my expectations.  In the meantime, though, I'm happy to discover that I was at least wrong about how difficult it would be to get through books 7 & 8.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 29, 2014, 11:07:34 AM
It's been seven or eight years since I last tried WoT.  I stopped after Book 7 or 8.  Part of the problem WAS pacing.  Part of it was the shear VOLUME of words and pages.  It takes a dedication of time to coherently read & digest all that information.  And I don't know about anyone else, but, rare is the time that I have to devote four, five, six hours to reading.  Otherwise, the twenty to sixty minutes you get at bed time drags the thing out in an interminable slog.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 29, 2014, 11:56:44 AM
I rarely read more than an hour or two a day myself anymore.  I guess for me, it just means it extends the time I get to spend with books I enjoy. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 29, 2014, 08:43:59 PM
you need to take longer shits.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 29, 2014, 11:02:32 PM
Quote from: Martok on June 29, 2014, 10:37:28 AM
Almost halfway into Path of Daggers, I'm starting to wonder if I've had false memories implanted into me. 


Seriously, I'm not seeing the slog that everyone talks about books 7-10 being (and that I thought I remembered)...at least I haven't as of yet.  Or maybe the pacing in CoS and PoD *is*, in fact, slower than in the first six books, but because I was expecting it to be so much worse than it actually is, I'm pleasantly surprised the storylines are moving along as well as they are.  I don't know. 

Perhaps books 9 & 10 (Winter's Heart and Crossroads of Twilight) will still be brutally slow, and thus still ultimately "fulfill" my expectations.  In the meantime, though, I'm happy to discover that I was at least wrong about how difficult it would be to get through books 7 & 8.  :)

I had the same thing happen 2nd time through. I think the first time it seems slow because you want to get to the last battle. When you know the book wont get you there, you relax. Read it for what it is. It is still wordy, just not painful.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on July 01, 2014, 09:32:47 PM
Long story short I got an ipad mini for my 25th year service award. I am exploring the world of free kindle and ibooks.

Finally reading a lot of the classics. Currently working on "Around the World in 80 Days" by Jules Verne.  I just finished Conan Doyle's "The Lost World".

The cool part is now that I figured out I can read Kindle books I can grab all the free military books you guys post about.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 01, 2014, 10:03:19 PM
One of our very fine, and truly awesome forumites, has been kind enough to send me a Nook that had been gathering dust in a drawer.  Gratis.  For which I will be eternally grateful.  I plan to put it to good use with as many free books as possible.  Maybe a few bought ones, too :)


On another note, I have picked up the second book by Sherwood Smith, 'The Fox,' from the library only yesterday.  Having read the first book, 'Inda,' I was glad to see my local library had the first three volumes.  It has a decidedly Indian flavor with a lot of political intrigue, royalty, war and uncertainty.  It's a fantasy setting, but not in an, 'in your face,' sort of way.  There is a subplot where some scholarly women are looking for information on magic in order to use it for the defense of their homes.  There are small spells used in every day life, like the Waste Spell and the Disappearance Spell, the former disposes of bodily fluids and solids and the latter of bodies themselves.  Other than that, there's nothing else to speak of.  Yet.

What really strikes me is the characters.  There are many.  And even the minor ones appear frequently enough for you to become familiar with.  The main character is Inda, a prince and second son, who is bound to become his older brothers Shield Arm, or war leader.  Inda is sent to the Academy for training in the arts of war.  His older brother is already there, a couple of years older than Inda.  And his older sister is there, too, as she is betrothed to the Royal Heir, or Sierlaef.  Inda is ten years old. 

The rest of the book details the character and interactions of all the various players.  It's well told.  Engaging.  Believable.  And I don't think I can remember ever reading another book like it.  It's not, 'GoT, set in India.  It stands on its own and is a really good story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on July 01, 2014, 10:31:55 PM
In honor of the 100 anniversary of WWI I just started Guns of August.





*edit because I can't do math ................
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 01, 2014, 10:35:33 PM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on July 01, 2014, 10:31:55 PM
In honor of the 150 anniversary of WWI I just started Guns of August.

A true classic. This would be a good time for me to give it another read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 02, 2014, 06:18:35 AM
You're not a math teacher, are you Tent?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 02, 2014, 06:54:48 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 02, 2014, 06:18:35 AM
You're not a math teacher, are you Tent?

HA!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2014, 07:21:39 AM
Hahaha!!

You know after looking forward to reading Guns of August for for so long I was ultimately disappointed in it, found it really dryand slow going. Bizarre because I have read 3-4 other Tuchmann books and liked them, and WWI, well, you guys know of my interest. It just never clicked with me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on July 02, 2014, 07:36:40 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 02, 2014, 06:18:35 AM
You're not a math teacher, are you Tent?


:idiot2:

::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 02, 2014, 07:52:12 AM
Quote from: Gusington on July 02, 2014, 07:21:39 AM
Hahaha!!

You know after looking forward to reading Guns of August for for so long I was ultimately disappointed in it, found it really dryand slow going. Bizarre because I have read 3-4 other Tuchmann books and liked them, and WWI, well, you guys know of my interest. It just never clicked with me.

I enjoyed it. It's flawed, but imho still a must read on the Great War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2014, 12:30:06 PM
That's what everybody and their brother says and so I was set up for disappointment. Shut up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 02, 2014, 12:40:58 PM
I tried to read Guns of August once, and it was pretty much as Gus says. I'd like to try it again sometime, and also The Arms of Krupp, eventually.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2014, 02:19:40 PM
The Arms.of Krupp looks great to me on paper...has anyone read it? It's been on my list forever but i don't actually own it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on July 03, 2014, 07:51:13 AM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on July 01, 2014, 10:31:55 PM
In honor of the 150 anniversary of WWI I just started Guns of August.

whats wrong with this statement TCT?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 03, 2014, 07:55:51 AM
Clearly Tent has perfected time travel and is posting from his zombie-proof bunker in the year 2064.

The real question is, where does he find the time to post when he's busy repopulating the human race through his concubines?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TheCommandTent on July 03, 2014, 08:27:52 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on July 03, 2014, 07:51:13 AM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on July 01, 2014, 10:31:55 PM
In honor of the 150 anniversary of WWI I just started Guns of August.

whats wrong with this statement TCT?

Quote from: mirth on July 03, 2014, 07:55:51 AM
Clearly Tent has perfected time travel and is posting from his zombie-proof bunker in the year 2064.

The real question is, where does he find the time to post when he's busy repopulating the human race through his concubines?

Yeah I don't do the whole numbers thing very well...........  :-[
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 03, 2014, 08:30:00 AM
meh. Math is overrated.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 03, 2014, 08:59:09 AM
^ I read this as 'meth'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on July 03, 2014, 11:57:32 AM
come on Mirth...

all ya need is some apple pi!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on July 03, 2014, 11:58:41 AM
Quote from: TheCommandTent on July 03, 2014, 08:27:52 AM
Yeah I don't do the whole numbers thing very well...........  :-[

just keep in mind that a 72% is not an A when grading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 08, 2014, 10:17:54 AM
I'm reading Monster Hunter Nemesis by Correa and King David's Spaceship by Pournelle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on July 10, 2014, 06:57:48 AM
Just finsihed NightLords Omnibus, Ultramarines Omnibus, Blood Angels Omnibus 1 and nearly finished 2. All in about three weeks! I'm devouring WH40K! After Vol2 it is Grey Knights Omnibus then onto The Founding Omnibus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on July 12, 2014, 12:16:31 PM
I finished American Gods this week while in Raleigh, and also read the short story The Butcher of Anderson Station. I am still working on Playing the World. I also started The Martian on the flight home yesterday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 12, 2014, 01:15:46 PM
Quote from: vyshka on July 12, 2014, 12:16:31 PM
I also started The Martian on the flight home yesterday.

This one?  The Martian (http://www.amazon.com/Martian-Andy-Weir-ebook/dp/B00EMXBDMA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405188827&sr=8-1&keywords=the+martian+andy+weir)

It's in my Kindle backlog. How's it so far? Should I bump it up the list?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 12, 2014, 05:53:26 PM
Just about to start the Imperial War Museum's Photographic History of WWI. Which I picked up in London when I was there...in 2003 :/

Better late than never, should be a quick, leisurely read. After that it is Enemy on the Euphrates: The British Occupation of Iraq and the Great Arab Revolt (1914-1921) by Ian Rutledge.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 13, 2014, 11:33:08 AM
Am now over halfway through Winter's Heart, the ninth book in The Wheel of Time.  The pace is noticeably slower, but still not dragging nearly as much as I feared/remembered -- and I'm enjoying it in any case.  :) 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 13, 2014, 02:52:02 PM
Read Invasion California, the sequel to Invasion Alaska.  Better than the first, but still questionable on the story line. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 13, 2014, 08:30:12 PM
Quote from: Martok on July 13, 2014, 11:33:08 AM
Am now over halfway through Winter's Heart, the ninth book in The Wheel of Time.  The pace is noticeably slower, but still not dragging nearly as much as I feared/remembered -- and I'm enjoying it in any case.  :)

Momentum! You have it!  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 13, 2014, 08:40:43 PM
Just received word from my friend Marie Brennan, mentioned upthread, that her first "Memoirs of Lady Trent" novel, The Natural History of Dragons, is a finalist (along with Neil Gaiman and a few other authors) for this year's World Fantasy Award.

For those who don't know, this is one of the sci-fi fantasy awards trifecta along with the Hugo and Nebula Awards; the main difference being this is only for the fantasy genre. It's also the one she always wanted most since she started writing (not that she'd turn down a serious chance to win one of the others of course. ;) Her career basically started with winning the Isaac Asimov Short Story Award one year long ago.)

I am no kidding so happy for her I'm close to crying. We grew up as baby author-siblings together, and even if I haven't made it and never will, I (just about ;) ) don't care as long as she's made it.  O:-)

Go little author-sis, gooooo! {sniffle!}

(...I guess I should clarify, not actually her brother, we just learned writing novels together.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on July 13, 2014, 10:00:11 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on July 12, 2014, 01:15:46 PM
Quote from: vyshka on July 12, 2014, 12:16:31 PM
I also started The Martian on the flight home yesterday.

This one?  The Martian (http://www.amazon.com/Martian-Andy-Weir-ebook/dp/B00EMXBDMA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405188827&sr=8-1&keywords=the+martian+andy+weir)

It's in my Kindle backlog. How's it so far? Should I bump it up the list?

It has been decent so far, but I can't say it is good enough yet to warrant a jump in the queue.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 14, 2014, 08:33:12 AM
Finished King David's Spaceship.  Finished a modern Catholic apolgetic (something that explains Catholic theology).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 14, 2014, 11:49:52 AM
^^ Kreeft? I usually like his work and I know he writes a lot on the topic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 14, 2014, 01:30:50 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on July 13, 2014, 08:40:43 PM
Just received word from my friend Marie Brennan, mentioned upthread, that her first "Memoirs of Lady Trent" novel, The Natural History of Dragons, is a finalist (along with Neil Gaiman and a few other authors) for this year's World Fantasy Award.

For those who don't know, this is one of the sci-fi fantasy awards trifecta along with the Hugo and Nebula Awards; the main difference being this is only for the fantasy genre. It's also the one she always wanted most since she started writing (not that she'd turn down a serious chance to win one of the others of course. ;) Her career basically started with winning the Isaac Asimov Short Story Award one year long ago.)

I am no kidding so happy for her I'm close to crying. We grew up as baby author-siblings together, and even if I haven't made it and never will, I (just about ;) ) don't care as long as she's made it.  O:-)

Go little author-sis, gooooo! {sniffle!}

(...I guess I should clarify, not actually her brother, we just learned writing novels together.)
Cool news!  I wish her luck! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on July 17, 2014, 04:49:49 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on July 12, 2014, 01:15:46 PM
Quote from: vyshka on July 12, 2014, 12:16:31 PM
I also started The Martian on the flight home yesterday.

This one?  The Martian (http://www.amazon.com/Martian-Andy-Weir-ebook/dp/B00EMXBDMA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405188827&sr=8-1&keywords=the+martian+andy+weir)

It's in my Kindle backlog. How's it so far? Should I bump it up the list?

So I finished this yesterday (book 20 for the year). I'd bump it in the queue if you are not reading something else you really enjoy.

I am still working on Playing at the World, and the next fiction book I have started is The Crystal Shard by R.A. Salvatore. I've never really read D&D fiction before so we'll see how it goes. It is the 1st book in the Icewind Dale trilogy and I loved the game, so hopefully the books are good as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 17, 2014, 06:17:13 PM
I just finished book 15 in the Horus Heresy series: "The First Heretic"

Now onto "Prospero Burns"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 17, 2014, 06:25:57 PM
Quote from: vyshka on July 17, 2014, 04:49:49 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on July 12, 2014, 01:15:46 PM
Quote from: vyshka on July 12, 2014, 12:16:31 PM
I also started The Martian on the flight home yesterday.

This one?  The Martian (http://www.amazon.com/Martian-Andy-Weir-ebook/dp/B00EMXBDMA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405188827&sr=8-1&keywords=the+martian+andy+weir)

It's in my Kindle backlog. How's it so far? Should I bump it up the list?

So I finished this yesterday (book 20 for the year). I'd bump it in the queue if you are not reading something else you really enjoy.

I am still working on Playing at the World, and the next fiction book I have started is The Crystal Shard by R.A. Salvatore. I've never really read D&D fiction before so we'll see how it goes. It is the 1st book in the Icewind Dale trilogy and I loved the game, so hopefully the books are good as well.


I just recently (in the last six weeks) re-read Icewind Dale.  I enjoyed it.  It read very much like a D&D adventure.  And the characters are good, if a bit stock.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 18, 2014, 02:09:49 PM
As usual for stories originally based on RPGs, the Icewind Dale characters get better as they go, not only within the trilogy but on beyond it, too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 19, 2014, 06:24:48 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 17, 2014, 06:25:57 PM
I just recently (in the last six weeks) re-read Icewind Dale.  I enjoyed it.  It read very much like a D&D adventure.  And the characters are good, if a bit stock.

I am nearing the end of The Icewind Dale Trilogy Collector's Edition and I feel it is as MetalDog described. I liked Drizzt in The Dark Elf Trilogy better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on July 19, 2014, 09:57:44 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 19, 2014, 06:24:48 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 17, 2014, 06:25:57 PM
I just recently (in the last six weeks) re-read Icewind Dale.  I enjoyed it.  It read very much like a D&D adventure.  And the characters are good, if a bit stock.

I am nearing the end of The Icewind Dale Trilogy Collector's Edition and I feel it is as MetalDog described. I liked Drizzt in The Dark Elf Trilogy better.

My plan is to tackle The Dark Elf Trilogy after Icewind Dale. I was debating which to go through first, and opinion online seemed split over which way to go since Icewind was written prior to Dark Elf.

Anyone jumped into this Kindle Unlimited thing Amazon has started? $10/month for unlimited reading. The selection is a subset of the titles that they carry though. From what I can tell no Asimov, or Heinlein, but it does have Tolkien, and Clarke.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on July 19, 2014, 01:52:23 PM
Anyone know what the Warhammer books are like? I'm heavily into WH40K books at the inute and wonder what the Warhammer ones I like. I have the Elves omnibus in my Amazon wish list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 19, 2014, 02:18:08 PM
Quote from: vyshka on July 19, 2014, 09:57:44 AM
My plan is to tackle The Dark Elf Trilogy after Icewind Dale. I was debating which to go through first, and opinion online seemed split over which way to go since Icewind was written prior to Dark Elf...

I read all that, too. But to read them in chronological order, I read The Dark Elf trilogy before I read The Icewind Dale Trilogy. And I'm glad I did.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on July 19, 2014, 02:35:45 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 19, 2014, 02:18:08 PM
Quote from: vyshka on July 19, 2014, 09:57:44 AM
My plan is to tackle The Dark Elf Trilogy after Icewind Dale. I was debating which to go through first, and opinion online seemed split over which way to go since Icewind was written prior to Dark Elf...

I read all that, too. But to read them in chronological order, I read The Dark Elf trilogy before I read The Icewind Dale Trilogy. And I'm glad I did.

I guess since I haven't really started  (a couple pages in) maybe I'll jump over to Homeland and read them first.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 23, 2014, 09:14:05 PM
Finished Monster Hunter Nemesis - which was excellent!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 24, 2014, 12:26:38 PM
Airboy,

I've forgotten the context of that title -- is it based on the popular handheld "Monster Hunter" game series?  ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 25, 2014, 06:18:31 AM
I've almost completed the free kindle book, von Moltke's book on the Franco-Prussian war. Its a very interesting read, but I keep wanting a map and some counters.............

Also picked up a book on the 79th Armoured Div which looks good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 25, 2014, 02:24:04 PM
Continuing my sojourn through The Wheel of Time, I'm now a couple hundred pages into the tenth book, Crossroads of Twilight...and I've run into "The Slog" at last. 


It's still not dragging as much as I remembered or feared it would, but the pace has definitely fallen off compared to the earlier books.  Even Winter's Heart (which isn't exactly noted for leaving you breathless and on the edge of your seat) wasn't this bad. 

It's not that the book deals with uninteresting stuff per se, it's just that a lot of it isn't terribly relevant and/or important to the main storylines.  It's almost as if Jordan decided to use CoT primarily as a vehicle for more world-building and character development in the middle of the series -- something the OCD "completionist" in me can certainly understand, but you don't want to do these things at the cost of stalling the various plot threads. 

Fortunately, I know I have only this one book to get through before everything ramps back up in dramatic fashion, so that makes it a lot easier to get through.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 26, 2014, 11:38:43 AM
Martok, how much time, typically, do you spend reading?  To get through that much verbiage, you have to be spending several hours at a sitting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 26, 2014, 02:40:43 PM
Actually, on average I don't read more than 2 hours a day.  Maybe 3 hours a day on my days off. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 26, 2014, 08:45:56 PM
And therein lies the rub.  I am reading a series now that has slowed down considerably for me.  The first two books went fairly quick.  The third is a slog.  And in analyzing why I though that, I realized that I devoted large chunks of time to getting through the first two books.  Now that I am giving the third book twenty minutes or so at bedtime, I find I like it (the book) less. 

Having said that, remembering back to my time with Wheel Of Time, all I remember is copious amounts of time spent for very little gain.  So, you have my salute for getting through without bogging down.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 27, 2014, 10:55:56 AM
Ironically, 2 hours a day is a dramatic reduction by my standards.  It used to be that 4-6 hours was the norm.  :-[ 




Quote from: MetalDog on July 26, 2014, 08:45:56 PM
Having said that, remembering back to my time with Wheel Of Time, all I remember is copious amounts of time spent for very little gain.  So, you have my salute for getting through without bogging down.
Heh, thanks.  :crazy2:  What seems to have helped more than just about anything else has been my own skewed memories/perceptions -- that, or I'm (for whatever reason) simply finding them a lot easier to get through now.  (Good lord, does that maturity helps in enjoying this series?  And does that, in turn, mean I've matured in the last seven years?  Gods help me...) 

Whatever the case may be, I'd recalled the pacing in books 7-10 as being much, much worse than they've actually turned out to be (in fact, CoS and PoD read almost as easily as the first 6 books for me), so pretty much all surprises have been pleasant ones so far.  And it certainly has been fun to rediscover things along the way ("Oh, right!  I'd forgotten about that!").  8)  It really has been enjoyable for me; it's almost like getting reacquainted with old friends again. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 27, 2014, 08:48:46 PM
Hell, back when I was young, a WOT type book used to be done in 3 days! Many books were done in 3 days. Now my eyes get tired looking at a screen for 3 hrs. Fuckers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 27, 2014, 11:16:54 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 27, 2014, 08:48:46 PM
Hell, back when I was young, a WOT type book used to be done in 3 days! Many books were done in 3 days. Now my eyes get tired looking at a screen for 3 hrs. Fuckers.

Thanks, Gramps.  Any other words of wisdom from the 19th Century?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 28, 2014, 06:48:47 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 27, 2014, 11:16:54 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 27, 2014, 08:48:46 PM
Hell, back when I was young, a WOT type book used to be done in 3 days! Many books were done in 3 days. Now my eyes get tired looking at a screen for 3 hrs. Fuckers.

Thanks, Gramps.  Any other words of wisdom from the 19th Century?

The only good reason to ride a bull, is to meet the nurse.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 28, 2014, 08:22:39 AM
Quote from: Martok on July 26, 2014, 02:40:43 PM
Actually, on average I don't read more than 2 hours a day.  Maybe 3 hours a day on my days off.

Yep, as you're now well aware, it's quite doable to get through three WoT books a month like that; the whole series can be polished off in just under 5 months.


Quote from: Martok on July 27, 2014, 10:55:56 AM
Ironically, 2 hours a day is a dramatic reduction by my standards.  It used to be that 4-6 hours was the norm.  :-[ 

Q
F
T
!
:buck2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 28, 2014, 12:26:34 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 28, 2014, 06:48:47 AM
The only good reason to ride a bull, is to meet the nurse.
That sounds like a mistranslated Chinese proverb.  ??? 




Quote from: JasonPratt on July 28, 2014, 08:22:39 AM
Quote from: Martok on July 26, 2014, 02:40:43 PM
Actually, on average I don't read more than 2 hours a day.  Maybe 3 hours a day on my days off.

Yep, as you're now well aware, it's quite doable to get through three WoT books a month like that; the whole series can be polished off in just under 5 months.
Well I'd originally predicted around 30 weeks (or just over 7 months) for myself, and thus far, I seem to be roughly on track to meet that estimate.  That number factors in that I'm also planning to read New Spring in between CoT and KoD, which I'm guessing will take an additional week or so. 




Quote from: JasonPratt on July 28, 2014, 08:22:39 AM
Quote from: Martok on July 27, 2014, 10:55:56 AM
Ironically, 2 hours a day is a dramatic reduction by my standards.  It used to be that 4-6 hours was the norm.  :-[ 

Q
F
T
!
:buck2:

Good to know that at least I'm not the only one.  There's a certain (if slightly grim) comfort in that.  :P 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 28, 2014, 01:30:59 PM
Quote from: Martok on July 28, 2014, 12:26:34 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 28, 2014, 06:48:47 AM
The only good reason to ride a bull, is to meet the nurse.
That sounds like a mistranslated Chinese proverb.  ??? 


Just one of the cheesy lines from the melodrama I'm in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 28, 2014, 06:35:56 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 28, 2014, 01:30:59 PM
Quote from: Martok on July 28, 2014, 12:26:34 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 28, 2014, 06:48:47 AM
The only good reason to ride a bull, is to meet the nurse.
That sounds like a mistranslated Chinese proverb.  ??? 


Just one of the cheesy lines from the melodrama I'm in.

In the 19th Century?  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 29, 2014, 09:04:34 AM
It's an Old West show I'm doing, starting this weekend. And yes, it takes place in the 19th century.

Got the costume down to the gun belt and holster and everything.  :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 02, 2014, 09:45:22 AM
Just started David Drake's The Tank Lords.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 03, 2014, 06:33:19 PM
Did you get assless chaps as well?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 03, 2014, 06:37:29 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 03, 2014, 06:33:19 PM
Did you get assless chaps as well?

I could have, as there are places to purchase such things.

ERRR OR SO I HAVE HEARD.

But, alas, I cannot, as this is a family-friendly show.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 03, 2014, 07:17:36 PM
I don't believe you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 04, 2014, 07:42:36 AM
Well, there IS the 'after midnight' show...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 04, 2014, 11:10:09 AM
"The Hump".  "The Slog".  "The Heavy Middle". 


Whatever you want to call it, it's finally behind me.  I finished Crossroads of Twilight, book 10 in The Wheel of Time, last night, which means the toughest part of the series (at least to read) is now done with.  I started the prequel New Spring this morning (since it was released in between books 10 and 11), after which I will resume with the main storyline. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 05, 2014, 12:42:12 PM
I'll be curious what you think of TNS. I started it at some point (can't recall when, after TFoH maybe), got through a few chapters, and then gave up and went back to WoT.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 06, 2014, 06:08:18 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 05, 2014, 12:42:12 PM
I'll be curious what you think of TNS. I started it at some point (can't recall when, after TFoH maybe), got through a few chapters, and then gave up and went back to WoT.
Well I'd already read New Spring before, along with the first time I read Knife of Dreams back in 2007.  I liked it well enough, although I don't remember exactly how much at this point (given how long it's been). 

What was it about NS you couldn't get into?  Anything in particular? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 07, 2014, 09:04:21 PM
When Siuan and Moiraine started to meander around in search of the plot, I suddenly realized with stunning clarity I didn't actually care.

I knew they weren't going to find the Dragon Reborn, and I didn't especially care about learning more how she found Lan (if she even did, since I knew RJ had originally planned this as the beginning of a 3-part prequel and I couldn't remember from what I had heard whether he had even gotten that far), and with The Slog coming up and several more books to cover before even reaching CoT which I only knew by reputation yet -- but by very accurate reputation from fellow WoT fans -- I had to ask myself why I would waste my time before even quite starting the Slog on a story that hadn't started off at anything like a gripping pace in what felt like the first 10 chapters (I don't recall exactly how many -- they had been going through the registrations of the women already after collecting themmmmzzzzzz for at least one chapterish portion) and which I knew for an absolute fact wasn't going to advance the plot any further?

I had put off reading it this long until my ultimate (and maybe final) readthrough, in honor of MemLight's release (and good reviews since KoD), and... well, I gave it a starting chance and just could not find the wherewithal to care.  :buck2: I had real WoT books to read, including three I already knew I kind-of-liked, and one I hated (which killed the series for me), and one I was probably going to hate, before getting back to the good books. If I finished the story and found I had regained caring I'd go back. But I didn't. I honestly can't imagine even starting with it some day years from now in another fond readthrough.

I realize I might be missing out on some reasonably awesome things happening later in the book than the first quarter or third that I got through. But even other fans I've read who liked the book never seemed particularly enthused about it. So, eh. I might enjoy reading whassername's humorous chapter-by-chapter summary/commentary on it perhaps.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on August 08, 2014, 11:35:18 AM
I am rereading Strengths Finder 2.0

apparently mine are [in no paticular order];
empathy,
input,
connectedness,
restorative, and
ideation.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 08, 2014, 02:31:28 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 07, 2014, 09:04:21 PM
When Siuan and Moiraine started to meander around in search of the plot, I suddenly realized with stunning clarity I didn't actually care.

I knew they weren't going to find the Dragon Reborn, and I didn't especially care about learning more how she found Lan (if she even did, since I knew RJ had originally planned this as the beginning of a 3-part prequel and I couldn't remember from what I had heard whether he had even gotten that far), and with The Slog coming up and several more books to cover before even reaching CoT which I only knew by reputation yet -- but by very accurate reputation from fellow WoT fans -- I had to ask myself why I would waste my time before even quite starting the Slog on a story that hadn't started off at anything like a gripping pace in what felt like the first 10 chapters (I don't recall exactly how many -- they had been going through the registrations of the women already after collecting themmmmzzzzzz for at least one chapterish portion) and which I knew for an absolute fact wasn't going to advance the plot any further?

I had put off reading it this long until my ultimate (and maybe final) readthrough, in honor of MemLight's release (and good reviews since KoD), and... well, I gave it a starting chance and just could not find the wherewithal to care.  :buck2: I had real WoT books to read, including three I already knew I kind-of-liked, and one I hated (which killed the series for me), and one I was probably going to hate, before getting back to the good books. If I finished the story and found I had regained caring I'd go back. But I didn't. I honestly can't imagine even starting with it some day years from now in another fond readthrough.

I realize I might be missing out on some reasonably awesome things happening later in the book than the first quarter or third that I got through. But even other fans I've read who liked the book never seemed particularly enthused about it. So, eh. I might enjoy reading whassername's humorous chapter-by-chapter summary/commentary on it perhaps.
Ah, gotcha. 

Now see, I never looked for a particularly compelling plot/storyline with New Spring.  What I *did* expect was a story explaining how Moiraine & Lan met, as well as a tale showing their viewpoints, including what they were like when they were not much older than the boys and the Supergirls are in the main books...and that was exactly what I got. 

In essence, what I figured NS would be -- and what, in fact, it *was* -- was another world-building novel, much like The Eye of the World itself was.  When read from that perspective, I was able to enjoy NS...as I am currently again.  <shrug>  Different strokes for different folks, I guess. 

As it is, I'm already over halfway through New Spring.  Granted, it's not nearly as long as the mainline novels, but I'm still going through it at a much quicker pace than I have most of the other WoT books.  I couldn't say why, exactly, but I'm finding it moves a lot faster than I might have expected; not since TDR have I had gone through a book in the series this quickly. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 08, 2014, 06:19:16 PM
Quote from: Windigo on August 08, 2014, 11:35:18 AM
I am rereading Strengths Finder 2.0

apparently mine are [in no paticular order];
empathy,
input,
connectedness,
restorative, and
ideation.

Perfect traits for someone with your Sun sign.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 12, 2014, 07:34:33 PM
I finished the latest Zombie book in the John Ringo series.  It was great!  I may write a review if I can ever get caught up at work.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2014, 07:36:45 PM
I am 150 pages into The Afrika Reich by Guy Saville, an alternate history set in a 1960s Africa colonized by a Germany victorious in WWII. Good companion reading to Wolfenstein :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on August 12, 2014, 08:23:52 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 12, 2014, 07:36:45 PM
I am 150 pages into The Afrika Reich by Guy Saville, an alternate history set in a 1960s Africa colonized by a Germany victorious in WWII. Good companion reading to Wolfenstein :)

Damn! I have that in my dead-tree queue right now! Should I move it up a few notches on the list?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2014, 09:10:22 PM
It's pretty good, yeah. :) Read 100 pages on Sunday which is unheard of for me. A quicker reader will devour it.

Next up is The Keep by F. Paul Wilson, finally!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on August 12, 2014, 10:23:36 PM
have you tried the Robert Conroy alternate WW2 books?  some good fun there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 13, 2014, 07:47:26 AM
When I bought The Afrika Reich I almost bought one of Conroy's...which ones do you recommend?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on August 13, 2014, 07:57:33 AM
I've been interested in Conroy's books but never picked them up since the alternate histories just seem a little too fantastic from a logistical perspective, but if you say they're good I might go for it. I really enjoyed the Gingrich/Forstchen ACW and WWII, alternates. I felt like I really learned a lot about the true historical constraints that the armies were operating under from those books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 13, 2014, 11:18:13 AM
Himmler's War by Conroy was a pretty decent read. As you said, AR, total and utter stretch of reality to try to grasp (Hitler dies, Himmler takes over (strike 1), Himmler makes peace with Stalin by giving him Norway and Greece (meh, possibly, but strike 2). Though I got through it and ultimately thought it wasn't bad.

I did try to read his "1901," but it was bad. Terrible writing and cookie-cutter characters with no depth. I didn't get more than halfway through it before I gave up.

I am still intrigued by him even after 1901. I think he's a much better alt-history writer than Turtledove. Talk about the most boring alt-history writer ever...sheesh. Conroy has some very interesting titles, though; I do have 'Red Inferno' downloaded but never got to reading it.

1945 by Forstchen and Newt was rather fantastic too (Otto Skorzeny and team raid middle America after parachuting in from a super-German jet, to name but one thread). Forstchen, though, is a pretty amazing writer in his own right. If you have not read his Lost Regiment series, you really, REALLY should at least get into the first one, Rally Cry (http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0451450078/ref=sr_1_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1407946504&sr=8-1&keywords=the+lost+regiment&condition=used).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 13, 2014, 11:52:17 AM
Conroy's alt-history of the Pacific Theater in WW2 is bad.  Turtledove's is good.  Gingriches alt Pearl Harbor is very good if you want a strong focus on military strategy and not much else.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on August 13, 2014, 11:59:28 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 13, 2014, 11:18:13 AMForstchen, though, is a pretty amazing writer in his own right. If you have not read his Lost Regiment series, you really, REALLY should at least get into the first one, Rally Cry (http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0451450078/ref=sr_1_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1407946504&sr=8-1&keywords=the+lost+regiment&condition=used).

:smitten:

I just reread the first four in this series.  Very highly recommended. 

He also had some good books based on Wing Commander. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 13, 2014, 12:43:00 PM
I've been working through a book I picked up at the library called Lee's Lieutenants-A Study in Command.  It's an interesting discussion of the Civil War told from the Confederate perspective.

I have a few other books in the lineup right now, but that's the one I keep coming back to lately.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 13, 2014, 01:14:26 PM
The idea of Conroy's 1901 as always tickled my pickle, but I have never seen a positive review of it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 13, 2014, 01:45:05 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on August 13, 2014, 11:59:28 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 13, 2014, 11:18:13 AMLost Regiment series

I just reread the first four in this series.  Very highly recommended. 

The second book still makes me ill when he gets into the 'feast' description. I've not had a hatred-on for many more evil characters than the Horde. The series is just too fantastic to NOT read more than once.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 13, 2014, 01:51:58 PM
I have 2 new books in my 'to read' pile.

'The Seven Weeks War', by H.M.Hozier - really looking forwards to this one.

'Zhitomir-Berdichev - German Operations West of Kiev Dec 1943 - Jan 1944' by Stephen Barratt. This one has a special meaning for me, as the author is an old friend and fellow wargamer. He worked in the defence environment for over 25 years and had has done extensive historical research for a number of game publishers.

This is his first book and is Vol 1 of a 2 part set - hopefully the second book will be out later this year.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on August 13, 2014, 04:05:42 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 13, 2014, 01:45:05 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on August 13, 2014, 11:59:28 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 13, 2014, 11:18:13 AMLost Regiment series

I just reread the first four in this series.  Very highly recommended. 

The second book still makes me ill when he gets into the 'feast' description. I've not had a hatred-on for many more evil characters than the Horde. The series is just too fantastic to NOT read more than once.

Ah, that was a great scene. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on August 13, 2014, 09:35:40 PM
I've liked everything I've read by Forstchen, though One Second After was just depressing. I'll have to pick up the lost regiment series and add it to my ever growing list of things-to-read-when-life-slows-down. Or maybe I can pick them up as audio books...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 13, 2014, 10:14:21 PM
The only thing I read from Forstchen was The Gamester Wars trilogy.  I liked them, but I haven't re-read them in some time.  It's about a syndicate of gamblers who bring historical figures, Alexander the Great and Napoleon (first and third books respectively), forward through time and plunk them down on a planet and get them to fight battles that the syndicate bets on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 13, 2014, 10:45:18 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on August 13, 2014, 11:59:28 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 13, 2014, 11:18:13 AMForstchen, though, is a pretty amazing writer in his own right. If you have not read his Lost Regiment series, you really, REALLY should at least get into the first one, Rally Cry (http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0451450078/ref=sr_1_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1407946504&sr=8-1&keywords=the+lost+regiment&condition=used).

:smitten:

I just reread the first four in this series.  Very highly recommended. 

He also had some good books based on Wing Commander. 

Read his Ice Prophet books too. Those were his first, and in some ways still, his best works.

I knew Bill Forstchen when he lived in Maine in the 80s. He was a history teacher trying to make it as an author. Many of the characters and ideas he incorporated into his novels came out of role playing games he did with high school students in the local "Gaming Club", back in the day when people thought D&D was a Satanic cult.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 14, 2014, 09:49:21 AM
I'll check out Ice Prophet when I have a chance; thanks for the recommend.

I had seen a few years back that it looked like there were some options for turning The Lost Regiment into a feature film, which would be completely and utterly awesome if it were done right, though it would be epically expensive considering what it covers. I could see (and possibly shudder at) Michael Bay doing such a movie. It would be a war movie of epic proportions, potentially.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 14, 2014, 05:07:49 PM
I'm pretty sure someone optioned the film rights. At one point, I heard rumors of Tom Cruise wanting to do Lost Regiment. That was at least 10 years ago though.

I'd love to see someone do a Lost Regiment movie. If it ever happens, I hope they use the original character names. Malady, Keane, Rossignol were all guys I was friends with and gamed with 20 years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 15, 2014, 08:54:10 AM
Would be great to see Sean Connery return to the screen as Dr. Emil. That's whom I pictured in that role while reading those books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 15, 2014, 11:20:14 PM
^Or he could play Hans, the SGM, but he's probably way too old now for either role.

Anyway.

I just started Disaster at Stalingrad late last night, by Peter Tsouras. Still trying to read Tank Lords by David Drake, but DaS I decided to give a shot because I want an alt-history fix.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2014, 08:45:23 AM
Just started F. Paul Wilson's The Keep. 35 pages in and love it already. Supernatural Nazi-killing in Transylvania by a possibly Jewish supernatural force! Yay!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2014, 10:37:11 AM
Quote from: Gusington on August 23, 2014, 08:45:23 AM
Just started F. Paul Wilson's The Keep. 35 pages in and love it already. Supernatural Nazi-killing in Transylvania by a possibly Jewish supernatural force! Yay!!

Good book, I recommend it. The movie screwed it all up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2014, 12:41:39 PM
Is the movie not worth watching at all?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2014, 01:34:29 PM
My memory is foggy on it, it was so far back. I think it was ok, it just misses most of the subtlety ( a lot was psychological) and twists of the book. I think I had an AD&D module based on it as well. It was made by another company not TSR. It was actually the module that got me to check out the book IIRC. That company made many modules.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2014, 01:43:34 PM
Role Aids . Strange name, a Mayfair Games brand. They made many decent modules.
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4064439-the-keep

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0912771135/ref=x_gr_w_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=httpwwwgoodco-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0912771135&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2014, 01:55:41 PM
Mayfair is still going.
http://mayfairgames.com/games.php?category=20

http://www.youtube.com/user/MayfairGamesMovies
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2014, 02:14:21 PM
Get your gadgets here.
http://www.amazon.ca/s/ref=sr_nr_n_10?rh=n%3A957368%2Ck%3Asteampunk&keywords=steampunk&ie=UTF8&qid=1408821125&rnid=5264023011
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2014, 02:24:35 PM
Steampunk wargaming, how cool is that?
In Her Majesty's Name: Steampunk Skirmish Wargaming Rules (Osprey Wargames) [Kindle Edition]
http://www.amazon.ca/Her-Majestys-Name-Steampunk-Wargaming-ebook/dp/B00C4B2SS0/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1408821667&sr=1-1&keywords=steampunk
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2014, 04:20:13 PM
You big tease. Here take my whole wallet!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2014, 05:08:02 PM
How far into  the keep are you? There is a scene that may bug you as Jewish. Spoiler: the evil demon, whatever, gets his strength from feeding off negative emotion. He breaks an old man by pretending to fear the cross. The old professor is broken thinking his Jewish faith has been a lie. As a plot device it is a good trick. I don't know if you want to be warned of it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2014, 10:26:24 PM
^I am now 125 pages in. The Jewish characters are en route to Romania. The Wehrmacht is being relieved by two squads of Einsatzgruppen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 24, 2014, 01:01:14 PM
Amazon has The Keep kindle edition free for Prime customers. It's a trap! once you are on prime the bank account will siphon away.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on August 24, 2014, 02:52:55 PM
Got a link? I only see the version for $3.99.

Or is it an amazon.ca freebie only?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 24, 2014, 03:12:46 PM
If you go to amazon then search books 'the keep' it will show on the list. Prime free to read- join prime. Buy $3.xx
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on August 24, 2014, 03:37:21 PM
I'm already an Amazon Prime member, but not that unlimited reading thingie it would seem.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on August 25, 2014, 05:52:02 PM
Recently finished Homeland, Exile, and Sojourn. Just starting The Crystal Shard, and still languishing in the background is Play the World which I still have about 2/3 to go.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 25, 2014, 08:43:58 PM
I'm almost halfway done with Disaster at Stalingrad. Excellent alt-history stuff, with one event leading to another to the next, all pretty plausible thus far. The author sprinkles footnotes throughout that quote from actual publications as well as fake publications that only exist in that history's timeline.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 26, 2014, 11:45:32 AM
I just finished reading book 3 of The Legend of Drizzt Collector's Edition (http://www.amazon.com/Legend-Drizzt-Collectors-Book-Bk-3/dp/0786950048/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=1-1&qid=1405311544). It contains The Legacy, Starless Night, Siege of Darkness, and Passage to Dawn, so don't let the "book 3" part fool you.  ;)

For a change of pace, next up is The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L'Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution by C. L. R. James.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on September 02, 2014, 03:22:03 PM
Mini Encyclopedia Aquarium Plants.  It's decent enough to give me the basics for some targeted internet searching.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 02, 2014, 08:30:12 PM
Reading Boilerplate: History's Mechanical Marvel by Paul Guinan and Anina Bennett - a steampunk delight!

http://www.amazon.com/Boilerplate-Historys-Mechanical-Paul-Guinan/dp/0810989506/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1409707656&sr=1-1&keywords=boilerplate
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 02, 2014, 08:41:03 PM
I've heard of that book. What is it, a kind of Steampunk I Robot?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 02, 2014, 08:45:01 PM
No it's more like a biography, check out the link. It's coffee table sized so there are some great pieces of art included.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 03, 2014, 09:57:07 AM
Interspersed with reading the Wheel of Time (I'm getting toward the end of Knife of Dreams), I'm now also perusing The Klingon Art of War, as "translated by" Keith R.A. deCandido. 

An enjoyable read, it has a surprising amount of depth, but without being overly complex.  Admittedly, you won't see a lot of Sun Tzu's and/or Clausewitz's precepts here, as the book is less about waging large-scale war and more about addressing personal behavior, ethics, etc., but it's still an interesting read for all that.  Kind of like "Bushido for Klingons". 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 04, 2014, 11:14:13 AM
KoD doing well for you I trust? The first part might have started a little slow, but compared to CoT...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 05, 2014, 03:20:13 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 03, 2014, 09:57:07 AM
Interspersed with reading the Wheel of Time (I'm getting toward the end of Knife of Dreams), I'm now also perusing The Klingon Art of War, as "translated by" Keith R.A. deCandido. 

An enjoyable read, it has a surprising amount of depth, but without being overly complex.  Admittedly, you won't see a lot of Sun Tzu's and/or Clausewitz's precepts here, as the book is less about waging large-scale war and more about addressing personal behavior, ethics, etc., but it's still an interesting read for all that.  Kind of like "Bushido for Klingons".

I flipped through that at B&N the other day but just wasnt impressed with it.  ended up grabbing Maritime Dominion an the Triumph of the Free World.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 05, 2014, 07:50:17 AM
I miss browsing at B&N. Or working at a bookstore and getting a sweet discount to blow my paycheck on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on September 05, 2014, 12:22:07 PM
Finished The Crystal Shard and started Streams of Silver as I continue to work through some of the Drizzt books. I will probably take a break on them after the Icewind Dale trilogy is completed. Goodreads says I am up to 24 books for the year so I guess I will surpass my target of 26. Other books currently in some state of being read: The Cathedral & The Bazaar by Eric Raymond, Systems Performance by Brendan Gregg, and Playing the World by Jon Peterson.

In the queue to be read:

Of Dice and Men
The Defense of Moscow 1941
The Lies of Locke Lamora
A Song Called Youth
and probably 1000 other books :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 06, 2014, 12:20:18 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on September 04, 2014, 11:14:13 AM
KoD doing well for you I trust? The first part might have started a little slow, but compared to CoT...
Oh yes.  I'm enjoying it as well as I did the first time -- more so, actually, as this time there's not a several-month gap in between reading CoT and KoD wherein my memory gets a little fuzzy.  :) 




Quote from: GDS_Starfury on September 05, 2014, 03:20:13 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 03, 2014, 09:57:07 AM
Interspersed with reading the Wheel of Time (I'm getting toward the end of Knife of Dreams), I'm now also perusing The Klingon Art of War, as "translated by" Keith R.A. deCandido. 

An enjoyable read, it has a surprising amount of depth, but without being overly complex.  Admittedly, you won't see a lot of Sun Tzu's and/or Clausewitz's precepts here, as the book is less about waging large-scale war and more about addressing personal behavior, ethics, etc., but it's still an interesting read for all that.  Kind of like "Bushido for Klingons".

I flipped through that at B&N the other day but just wasnt impressed with it.  ended up grabbing Maritime Dominion an the Triumph of the Free World.
In my specific case, it probably helps a lot that I've long been a fan of DeCandido's previous work in the Trek-verse, especially Articles of the Federation and his I.K.S. Gorkon/Klingon Empire novels.  That man has done for Klingons what Diane Duane has done for Vulcans and Romulans. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 09, 2014, 09:52:53 PM
Wrote a review for Islands of Rage and Hope by John Ringo - book 3 in the zombie apocalypse series.  I really enjoyed this one.  It should appear eventually when space permits.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 10, 2014, 02:50:27 AM
At long last, I've stepped into unknown -- or perhaps "virgin" would be more accurate -- territory and begun reading The Gathering Storm, the first of the WoT books written by Brandon Sanderson. 

It'll be interesting to see how his writing style contrasts with Jordan's.  I'm already beginning to spot numerous differences, but will withhold comment until I'm further in. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on September 10, 2014, 06:46:42 AM
After overdosing on WH40K I've finally started  Other side of the Wire Vol 2 by Ralph Whitehead. This first book is one of my all time fav military history books. I did start Vol 2 last year but had had enough of WW1 at that point..so now restarted and hopefully the final vol will come out next year.

I manged to get both volumes in hardback limited edition of 750 and signed. Vol 1 is now only available in paperback. Still the research is outstanding..prob the best I've seen.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Volume-German-Reserve-September-1914-June/dp/1908916893/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1410349517&sr=8-4&keywords=other+side+of+the+wire (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Volume-German-Reserve-September-1914-June/dp/1908916893/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1410349517&sr=8-4&keywords=other+side+of+the+wire)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Other-Side-Wire-Volume/dp/1907677127/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y (http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Other-Side-Wire-Volume/dp/1907677127/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2014, 08:40:10 AM
Reading a steampunkish compilation right now called Queen Victoria's Book of Spells.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on September 10, 2014, 09:13:53 AM
Just ordered this from Amazon.

Poilu: The World War I Notebooks of Corporal Louis Barthas, Barrelmaker, 1914-1918 by Louis Barthas

http://www.amazon.com/Poilu-Notebooks-Corporal-Barrelmaker-1914-1918/dp/0300191596/ref=pd_sim_b_44?ie=UTF8&refRID=0B5QD0PMRHM156MRZB52 (http://www.amazon.com/Poilu-Notebooks-Corporal-Barrelmaker-1914-1918/dp/0300191596/ref=pd_sim_b_44?ie=UTF8&refRID=0B5QD0PMRHM156MRZB52)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on September 10, 2014, 05:24:06 PM
Reading through German Panzer Divisions of WWII by Chris Bishop and Jorge Rosado.

Nice 'beer and pretzels' book on each of the Panzer divisions showing their history and their armor allotment during different stages of the war. Best thing is I got it for $5 at Chapters.

http://www.amazon.com/German-Panzer-Divisions-Chris-Bishop/dp/1782740651/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410387864&sr=8-1&keywords=Jorge+Rosado+%26+Chris (http://www.amazon.com/German-Panzer-Divisions-Chris-Bishop/dp/1782740651/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410387864&sr=8-1&keywords=Jorge+Rosado+%26+Chris)

That Louis Barthas book posted above looks very interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 10, 2014, 05:25:33 PM
I've got a copy of Goering's Grenadiers somewhere, and it's pissing me off that I can't find it. It's a great tome reviewing Luftwaffe field divisions. I did an article in World at War Magazine last year on it, and that book was invaluable as a resource. Grr...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 10, 2014, 06:56:40 PM
I have been itching to read Churchill's books on WWI & WWII for months. I keep going to amazon, almost hit 1 click buy then decide to wait. Part of me want to look for insight in to what went wrong, how could it be avoided, part of me thinks they will suck many hrs better spent elsewhere. Can someone convince me not to buy them? Can someone convince me they are important enough not to be missed?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on September 10, 2014, 07:51:58 PM
He won a Nobel prize for literature. I'd get them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2014, 07:55:22 PM
I feel kind of the same way about The Last Lion, Part I...except I bought it but haven't developed the fortitude to crack it open yet. Clearly I would buy the bios too :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 10, 2014, 08:35:10 PM
"I do not believe that Soviet Russia desires war. What they desire is the fruits of war and the indefinite expansion of their power and doctrines. But what we have to consider here to-day while time remains, is the permanent prevention of war and the establishment of conditions of freedom and democracy as rapidly as possible in all countries. Our difficulties and dangers will not be removed by closing our eyes to them. They will not be removed by mere waiting to see what happens; nor will they be removed by a policy of appeasement. What is needed is a settlement, and the longer this is delayed, the more difficult it will be and the greater our dangers will become.

From what I have seen of our Russian friends and Allies during the war, I am convinced that there is nothing they admire so much as strength, and there is nothing for which they have less respect than for weakness, especially military weakness. For that reason the old doctrine of a balance of power is unsound. We cannot afford, if we can help it, to work on narrow margins, offering temptations to a trial of strength. If the Western Democracies stand together in strict adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter, their influence for furthering those principles will be immense and no one is likely to molest them. If however they become divided or falter in their duty and if these all-important years are allowed to slip away then indeed catastrophe may overwhelm us all."

http://www.winstonchurchill.org/learn/speeches/speeches-of-winston-churchill/120-the-sinews-of-peace
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 10, 2014, 08:49:40 PM
Picked up volume 1 of each set.
Thanks for the recommendations gents.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2014, 08:55:28 PM
Excellent. Have you read The Last Lion books? Either way it's Churchill, you can't go wrong.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 10, 2014, 10:15:38 PM
I have not read them. It might be too much.

I have always tried to be practical in my study. Focus on what I feel I need to know to move forward in an area, ignore the rest. There is far too much information out there to do otherwise. I still have Clausewitz, Porsche, Gibbon, Thucydides, Herotodus, Livy, Mahan, to finish, just in history. I also have stuff in architecture, engineering, economics,...

Time is precious.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 10, 2014, 10:16:45 PM
It is.  But knowledge is, too.  And who better to gain knowledge than those who are wont to do good with it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 11, 2014, 08:00:42 AM
Dang, that quote from Churchill has looped back around again, hasn't it?  :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 11, 2014, 08:44:32 AM
Makes you wonder if there's any Churchill types out there today. Obviously nobody in power anywhere.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2014, 09:23:37 AM
Plenty of Hitlers to go around.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 11, 2014, 09:25:41 AM
Which is why they seem to be succeeding. There's no strong Western leader anymore to counter this insanity.

One of us should run for President. Gus, I'll vote for you, even if you need to stand on a chair behind the podium. ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2014, 02:29:16 PM
Thank you Sir. But I would never want the job of POTUS. I enjoy what crumbs of dignity I have left.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 11, 2014, 02:53:02 PM
My interpretation is the founding fathers wanted anyone to be able to run for office, as long as they met the requirements. That means you, myself, or any of us that meet those requirements could do it. Not the same back-scratching cockroaches every year.

To think our own Constitution says that people have the right to change a government when it abuses their rights. Yet talking about that invites Homeland Security scrutiny, not to mention being considered treasonous. Something's rotten and all that.  :crazy2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 11, 2014, 03:02:12 PM
I think it depends on the methods. If you feel you have come up with a better system you present the idea to your peers (citizens). If they like it, the idea goes viral on the net. There is discussion, maybe even legislation.

The problem is with the people that don't like something, have no clue what to do, so they just trash everything around them to display their unhappyness.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 11, 2014, 04:59:16 PM
I'm still waiting for the Starfury/Steelgrave ticket in 2016... 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2014, 09:23:18 AM
Hell, Ted Nugent might do better than those in power now.

And Ted actually insinuated his interest in a book he wrote a few years ago, 'Ted White and Blue."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 16, 2014, 07:19:01 AM
The main issue here is that it is way too easy for the majority of citizens to be ignorant stumps.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 16, 2014, 08:16:46 AM
I finished Disaster at Stalingrad and found it an entertaining read. Amazing how things had to fall just right for the Soviets to lose, but that's the way it goes (read Miracle at Midway sometime for a good string of amazing luck). First Admiral Raeder dies in a plane crash, then Heydrich manages to avoid the raid in Prague that kills him, the Germans overcommit and completely destroy PQ-17 and even capture 10-15 merchant ships, and the Allies decide to stop sending aid via the Murmansk route (thanks mostly to Admiral King refusing to send more ships - the Wasp gets sunk as does a British carrier - and most are convinced very few merchant sailors would be willing to sign up for another run to Russia). Germany then manages to get Turkey to join the Axis, some of the senior staff at OKH are replaced, Paulus is replaced as 6th Army commander, Manstein keeps 11th Army as an operational reserve near Stalingrad, Grossdeutschland stays in Russia instead of going to France, Italian mountain troops help the German mountain troops break the passes in the Caucasus, the Germans capture the oil fields and cut off the Persian route, Beria is killed in a bombing raid in the Caucasus, 1st Panzer Army swings up and captures Astrakhan and takes Stalingrad from the rear (5th SS Pz Wiking leads the charge there). The Soviet counteroffensive nearly wins the day but is slaughtered. Stalin is shot by Beria's replacement. Hitler and cronies go to Stalingrad to celebrate their victory and are then promptly shot by both Vasily Zaytsev and his German counterpart. End of book. Alllllrighty then...like I said a fortunate tumbling of dominoes in Germany's favor, but still an interesting read.

I started to read Max Hasting's All Hell Let Loose two nights ago. I didn't know a lot about it and already read several of his books so really wasn't wanting a rehash of the highest levels of the War, and am thus far impressed that it's more a look at the everyday people and their struggles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 16, 2014, 08:33:15 AM
Maritime Dominion and the Triumph of the Free World: Naval Campaigns that Shaped the Modern World 1852-2001

http://www.amazon.com/Maritime-Dominion-Peter-Padfield/dp/1590207548
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 16, 2014, 02:49:57 PM
Ooh that sounds good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 16, 2014, 06:54:44 PM
The Great Iron Trail: The Story of the First Trans-Continental Railroad by Robert West Howard.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on September 16, 2014, 11:55:34 PM
I finally got my order from Amazon for Black Cross Red Star: Air War Over the Eastern Front Vol. 3 - Everything for Stalingrad.  Took over a bloody month to get here from some dodgy 3rd party seller.  Oh well, should get me in the mood for the final release of IL-2: Battle of Stalingrad.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F610ix6GE21L.jpg&hash=9deb3cb1a4175196b58b3d0d5d2ea04d56c3b54d)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 16, 2014, 11:58:24 PM
www.rzm.com  and never worry again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 17, 2014, 07:50:43 AM
That site will embed itself in all our wallets forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 17, 2014, 01:12:37 PM
I'm now just about halfway through The Gathering Storm in The Wheel of Time...and pardon my Klingon, but holy fucking shit!!  :o 

I've just finished reading the two chapters, "The Last That Could Be Done" and "A Warp in the Air", and am pretty much in shock at the moment.  I suspect anyone who's read the series up to that point will know what I'm referring to... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on September 17, 2014, 03:36:14 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on September 16, 2014, 11:58:24 PM
www.rzm.com  and never worry again.

Fuck those guys.  $68.95 for the same book I just got off Amazon for $28.60.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on September 17, 2014, 07:24:59 PM
I'm setting myself up and keeping the joke entry wide open for Starfury here  :)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg1.imagesbn.com%2Fp%2F9780470767900_p0_v2_s260x420.JPG&hash=109b55853e7e30a9197b5c53bb9811f39509d520)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 17, 2014, 08:36:19 PM
Are congratulations in order?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on September 17, 2014, 08:43:55 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on September 17, 2014, 08:36:19 PM
Are congratulations in order?

nah it's old news by now, but thanks! 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 18, 2014, 08:09:09 AM
That belly could be the dad's beer gut.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 18, 2014, 09:01:20 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 17, 2014, 01:12:37 PM
I'm now just about halfway through The Gathering Storm in The Wheel of Time...and pardon my Klingon, but holy fucking shit!!  :o 

In a loose sort of way this was Moridin's plan the whole time, which seems self-defeating but then (as subsequent books indicate) Moridin really just wants to finally die -- which doesn't make much sense of his behavior in earlier books, and seems rather retconny.  ::)

Consequently when this fails, Moridin effectively gives up for the final two books and just hopelessly marks time.

Fortunately, the real Nae'blis takes over.  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 18, 2014, 10:39:37 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on September 18, 2014, 09:01:20 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 17, 2014, 01:12:37 PM
I'm now just about halfway through The Gathering Storm in The Wheel of Time...and pardon my Klingon, but holy fucking shit!!  :o 

In a loose sort of way this was Moridin's plan the whole time, which seems self-defeating but then (as subsequent books indicate) Moridin really just wants to finally die -- which doesn't make much sense of his behavior in earlier books, and seems rather retconny.  ::)

Consequently when this fails, Moridin effectively gives up for the final two books and just hopelessly marks time.

Fortunately, the real Nae'blis takes over.  >:D
Huh?? 

What the frak are you talking about, Jason?  I was referring to Rand's using the True Power, and his subsequent killing of Semirhage and Elza... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 18, 2014, 11:17:36 AM
Just finished "The Golden Princess: A Novel of the Change" by S.M. Stirling. 

Good book, but this is setting up another series of novels in this universe with the 3rd generation of people.  Three trilogies, three generations.  Almost nobody from the first trilogy is still alive - and the ones who are are very old and no longer in leadership positions.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 21, 2014, 01:10:08 PM
Just finished "Hate Mail from Cheerleaders" which is a book of Sports Illustrated columns by their human interest writer.  It was very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on September 23, 2014, 08:03:20 PM
Finished Streams of Silver, and The Halfling's Gem. Also finished The Cathedral and the Bazaar. I started reading The Lies of Locke Lamora and The Cryptonomicon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 23, 2014, 09:36:30 PM
http://www.amazon.ca/The-Guns-August-Outbreak-Nonfiction-ebook/dp/B002TXZS8A/ref=zg_bs_928712_28

Such rave reviews.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 24, 2014, 01:18:51 AM
in a 100 years we're going to look like, in a political sense, suck fucking idiots.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 24, 2014, 07:35:51 AM
We do already.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 25, 2014, 11:51:36 PM
I wish we could download books to our memory while we sleep. I have so much to read I feel guilty reading about Harry Seldon leaving the university when there are serious books to be read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 26, 2014, 07:42:23 PM
You should never feel guilty about reading Asimov.  He's smarter than any two of us and his works will make you smarter just by knowing about them
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 26, 2014, 08:24:43 PM
True dat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 26, 2014, 09:15:03 PM
I will always remember the first Foundation book I read. I think I read it in junior high.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 26, 2014, 09:33:46 PM
I was always a fantasy reader.  Never considered Sci-fi until High School.  They offered a Sci-fi lit and a Mythology class as electives.  I took both of them.  I really enjoyed the sci-fi I read after that.  Asimov, Clarke, Pournelle and Niven.  A lot of classic stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 27, 2014, 01:27:05 AM
I have to admit that Ive never gotten around to the Foundation series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 27, 2014, 06:58:05 AM
I've got a boxed set of the original Foundation trilogy around here someplace.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 27, 2014, 09:37:30 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 26, 2014, 09:15:03 PM
I will always remember the first Foundation book I read. I think I read it in junior high.

Me 2.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 27, 2014, 10:14:42 AM
A friend of mine that volunteers at the Houston Public Library's warehouse sorts through tons of books every week, many of which get sold at their book sales or donated. Last week she grabbed for me all of these:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1175.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr624%2FMichaelE6%2FBooks.jpg&hash=82e941c4b8b00257e5c6a3ade25a824074c96d84)

The Civil War book I used to have but got rid of it at some point, probably because it was so damn big. But I'm excited to have it back in the fold. Plus the others are pretty cool too - the FBI book is interesting just from flipping through it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 27, 2014, 11:21:05 AM
That's pretty sweet.  Wish I had a friend like that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on September 28, 2014, 12:22:30 AM
I still haven't managed to finish the whole series, though I have them all. I've read Prelude, and Forward, as well as the original trilogy, but set it aside for some reason and haven't continued on with the rest yet. I noticed recently that you can get the whole series as 1 purchase on the kindle now. I think I will make that my goal for the rest of the year to go through the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 28, 2014, 10:56:34 AM
Vyshka, my suggestion would be to read the originals first then fill in with Prelude and Forward.  I remember it being more satisfying that way.  Having said that, it's also the way they were published and Prelude and Forward hadn't been published when I read the first three.  So, ymmv.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 29, 2014, 05:10:45 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 26, 2014, 09:15:03 PM
I will always remember the first Foundation book I read. I think I read it in junior high.
I read the original trilogy in ninth grade at the recommendation of the librarian; changed my life.  They were the books that turned me onto sci-fi and (later) fantasy fiction. 

To this day, I make a point of reading the Foundation series (along with The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings trilogy) once a year.  I can't say that about any other book(s) I own. 




Quote from: GDS_Starfury on September 27, 2014, 01:27:05 AM
I have to admit that Ive never gotten around to the Foundation series.
Do it.  If you have any liking for sci-fi at all, you owe it to yourself to read it at least once. 




Quote from: MetalDog on September 28, 2014, 10:56:34 AM
Vyshka, my suggestion would be to read the originals first then fill in with Prelude and Forward.  I remember it being more satisfying that way.  Having said that, it's also the way they were published and Prelude and Forward hadn't been published when I read the first three.  So, ymmv.
Seconded.  Read the Foundation novels in the order in which they were published, not the order in which they take place. 


And under absolutely no circumstances should you *ever* read the so-called second Foundation trilogy by Asimov's pals.  The 2nd and 3rd novels (Foundation and Chaos and Foundation's Triumph) were actually pretty decent, but unfortunately they suffer from being the fruit of the poisoned tree -- the first novel, Foundation's Fear<shudder>  If authors could be tried for crimes against literature, Gregory Benford would be swinging from a gibbet.  >:( 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on September 29, 2014, 06:56:10 AM
Nearly finished German Army on the Western Front 1915 by Jack Sheldon, then I'm finished with that series so far. Though spoke to Jack last week and he is along way along with 'The German Army in the Spring Offensives of 1917 (Arras, Aisne and Champagne)' so that will be a def buy.

Also finished Vol2 Otherside of the Wire by Ralph Whitehead. Waiting on Vol 3 to be released.

Next on the list is The Stalingrad Cauldron by frank Ellis.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 29, 2014, 07:54:42 AM
I am about to start Vlad: The Last Confession by CC Humphreys, on Toonces recommendation.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on September 29, 2014, 09:20:00 PM
Hmmph...I see something about to be read by Gus that is not a Ray Bradbury novel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 29, 2014, 11:00:06 PM
OOH, OOH!!  Martian Chronicles?!?!!?  I Sing the Body Electric???!!!!?!?!?!!?  Tell me!  Tell me!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 29, 2014, 11:14:09 PM
tell you a pun?   :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on September 29, 2014, 11:53:41 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on September 29, 2014, 11:00:06 PM
OOH, OOH!!  Martian Chronicles?!?!!?  I Sing the Body Electric???!!!!?!?!?!!?  Tell me!  Tell me!

Quiet you!  You've got a book report due on the Flashman Papers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 30, 2014, 06:19:53 AM
Yes, teacher.  :(  And Starfury is bothering me.  He keeps talking while I am trying to do my work!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 30, 2014, 06:40:57 AM
This thread is a real page-turner.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 30, 2014, 08:01:04 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on September 30, 2014, 06:40:57 AM
This thread is a real page-turner.

Nah, its marginal.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 30, 2014, 11:32:40 AM
Pulp Nonfiction.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 30, 2014, 11:34:45 AM
Nobody has the spine to stand up to these puns.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 30, 2014, 01:07:43 PM
That seems to cover it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 30, 2014, 03:28:51 PM
dont judge a book by the punner.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 30, 2014, 03:38:44 PM
That speaks volumes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 30, 2014, 03:54:49 PM
BACK TO THE TOPIC...  >:( 



Just finished The Gathering Storm in the WoT series, and will begin The Towers of Midnight when I get up this evening.  Sanderson's writing is holding up so far.  It's different, of course, but not bad for the most part. 


Also, I wrapped up The Klingon Art of War a couple days ago.  It's an easy recommendation for any Trek fan. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 30, 2014, 04:32:28 PM
Yes, Star. Back on topic!

I'm just finishing 'Hobart's 79th Armoured Division At War' by Richard Doherty. A very interesting and informative read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 30, 2014, 04:39:35 PM
Currently reading All Hell Let Loose by Max Hastings. Now up to late 1940/beginning of 1941. It's an interesting take on the war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 01, 2014, 08:15:28 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 18, 2014, 10:39:37 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on September 18, 2014, 09:01:20 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 17, 2014, 01:12:37 PM
I'm now just about halfway through The Gathering Storm in The Wheel of Time...and pardon my Klingon, but holy fucking shit!!  :o 

In a loose sort of way this was Moridin's plan the whole time, which seems self-defeating but then (as subsequent books indicate) Moridin really just wants to finally die -- which doesn't make much sense of his behavior in earlier books, and seems rather retconny.  ::)

Consequently when this fails, Moridin effectively gives up for the final two books and just hopelessly marks time.

Fortunately, the real Nae'blis takes over.  >:D
Huh?? 

What the frak are you talking about, Jason?  I was referring to [REDACTED SPOILERY THINGS FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVEN'T READ THAT FAR YET]

Me, too. The Dark One has been pushing for something like this to happen the whole time, with Moridin somewhat spastically trying to follow suit (but has trouble doing due to jealousy etc.)

Once the situation is solved, Moridin fatalistically figures Team Chosen has almost no chance of winning this round, again, and more or less gives up, though it takes a little while for him to realize the general plan failed so he's still managing things throughout most of ToM.

(Including a very annoying tease suggesting a fan theory about Sammael having survived and gone into hiding, instead of dying lamely off-camera back in ACoS.  :buck2: I figured I should nix any hope you may have along that line, rather than have it dashed later.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 08, 2014, 08:49:41 PM
I am about half way through "Berlin Diary" written by Shirer.  He also wrote: The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich.

Berlin Diary was the #1 seller in the USA in 1941.  It is observations by a foreign correspondent in Europe.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 08, 2014, 11:56:13 PM
I read Shirer's books years ago. He was "Johnny-on-the-spot" and an eyewitness to what was happening in Germany during those years just prior to World War II. I think you made a good choice, Airboy.  O0

As for me, I just started reading Empire Falls by Richard Russo.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on October 09, 2014, 12:13:57 AM
Quote from: bob48 on September 30, 2014, 04:32:28 PM
Yes, Star. Back on topic!

you are among the last people thats allowed to play that card.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 16, 2014, 10:46:05 AM
Am now over 3/4 of the way through Towers of Midnight.  I can barely put it down; talk about a page-turner! 


Sanderson was obviously bound and determined to resolve as many loose threads and secondary storylines in this book as possible.  It's not a bad thing, really, but the pace is almost breathtaking at times.  (And I thought Knife of Dreams moved quickly!  Sheesh...) 

Minor spoiler:  When Perrin names his new weapon (after forging it), I'm not gonna deny I got a big lump in my throat...and tears in my eyes.  Now *that's* good writing. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 16, 2014, 12:19:56 PM
I finished The Lion's Gate by Stephen Pressfield about the Six Day War. Really good read, especially his interviews with the Israeli pilots about the initial attacks on Egypt and Syria. Highly recommended.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2014, 07:49:56 PM
^That the same Stephen Pressfield of Gates of Fire and other ancient books?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 16, 2014, 08:39:26 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 16, 2014, 07:49:56 PM
^That the same Stephen Pressfield of Gates of Fire and other ancient books?

The same.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2014, 09:00:31 PM
That guy is prolific...lotsa titles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 17, 2014, 05:30:39 AM
Yeah, I didn't know he was Jewish until I read this book. It's not a novel, but not your traditional history book either.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 17, 2014, 05:48:19 AM
Quote from: Martok on October 16, 2014, 10:46:05 AM
Am now over 3/4 of the way through Towers of Midnight.  I can barely put it down; talk about a page-turner! 


Sanderson was obviously bound and determined to resolve as many loose threads and secondary storylines in this book as possible.  It's not a bad thing, really, but the pace is almost breathtaking at times.  (And I thought Knife of Dreams moved quickly!  Sheesh...) 

Minor spoiler:  When Perrin names his new weapon (after forging it), I'm not gonna deny I got a big lump in my throat...and tears in my eyes.  Now *that's* good writing.

youre going to make me start this arent you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 17, 2014, 06:13:34 AM
DON'T DO IT GEEK!  Despite what Jason and Martok say, you'll never get back the time you spent slogging through five or eight books to get to the good stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 17, 2014, 06:22:08 AM
thats what i thought - have i got to grind through some bad stuff to get to the juicy bits?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 17, 2014, 09:44:35 AM
^^

There are 4 to 6 books of juicy bits (depending on the taste of who's counting), then a slog of varying levels of slogginess (depending somewhat on taste, patience, and how hyped you were for getting the book at last after a couple of years waiting ;) ), until Book 11, Knife of Dreams starts.

It is not at all as sloggy as how Martin's epic is turning out to be. And Tor.com has had one of its editors (or authors I forget which), Leigh Butler, post up a chapter summary with humorous/insightful/annoyed commentary for each book for free (for in print for a pittance via Amazon), so if you finally lose enough momentum you can crib from her through the worst of it. Though she accidentally spoils a bit sometimes in the sloggier parts as, like many of us, she gave up late in the slog so she knows where the plot is going up to a point.

I recommend it with those reservations.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 17, 2014, 10:00:49 AM
i actually like Martins slog
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 17, 2014, 12:41:49 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 17, 2014, 06:22:08 AM
thats what i thought - have i got to grind through some bad stuff to get to the juicy bits?
FWIW geek, in doing this re-read of the series, the only two books I've found to be "sloggy" at all were 9 & 10 (Winter's Heart and Crossroads of Twilight).  Otherwise, the series has been pretty well-paced, at least for me. 


That being said, I know a lot of folks struggle to get through the first book (Eye of the World) -- perhaps because there's as much world-building as plot going on (which of course some folks just aren't interested in).  For that reason, I generally recommend people at least read The Great Hunt in addition before deciding whether to continue reading the series or give up on it. 

(I know a number of of folks say one should even read the the third book, The Dragon Reborn, as well before deciding.  If you're not grabbed by *that* point, however, then you definitely shouldn't continue.) 




Quote from: undercovergeek on October 17, 2014, 10:00:49 AM
i actually like Martins slog
Heh.  Then you should have no problem with Jordan.  Martin's writing makes Jordan's work look like a high-speed car chase in comparison.  ::) 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 17, 2014, 06:50:12 PM
Obviously, JP and Martok are being paid by Jordan's estate to say nice things. :P I will read through just about anything in an effort to say, "I did it."  I made it through Book 8 and said, "Enough."  If it could be said in three words, Jordan took a chapter.  There were characters galore and tedious descriptions of minutiae that even an obsessive/compulsive would think were too much.  And the defenders that tell you that they will grudgingly admit it gets a little slow are doing you a disservice.  Trust me, the time you save reading that could be better spent  doing a 9,000 piece puzzle that looks like the rest of this post













































Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 17, 2014, 07:08:32 PM
lol, thanks guys, im going to slink away to consider
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on October 22, 2014, 01:15:12 PM
Recently read Foundation, and Raymond Feist's Magician: Apprentice. Almost done with Foundation and Empire. Still reading The Lies of Locke Lamora and Cryptonomicon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 22, 2014, 06:49:21 PM
I envy you if this is your first read through of Foundation and Magician:Apprentice.  Two of my very favorite all time series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on October 22, 2014, 07:32:13 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 22, 2014, 06:49:21 PM
I envy you if this is your first read through of Foundation and Magician:Apprentice.  Two of my very favorite all time series.

It is my first read of Feist. I've read all of the Foundation books before except Foundation's Edge and Foundation and Earth.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 22, 2014, 08:03:03 PM
Feist's books were taken from his own homegrown D&D campaign with friends.  Knowing that, you can kind of see how the campaign must have unfolded by reading between the lines.  Really good ideas and storytelling.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 23, 2014, 08:34:16 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on October 17, 2014, 10:00:49 AM
i actually like Martins slog

YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THE MIDDLE PART OF THIS SERIES!!  :D

However, there is significantly less (obvious) cursing and pink towering sex members etc. So your mileage may vary.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 23, 2014, 08:54:06 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 17, 2014, 06:50:12 PM
Obviously, JP and Martok are being paid by Jordan's estate to say nice things. :P I will read through just about anything in an effort to say, "I did it."  I made it through Book 8 and said, "Enough."  If it could be said in three words, Jordan took a chapter.  There were characters galore and tedious descriptions of minutiae that even an obsessive/compulsive would think were too much.  And the defenders that tell you that they will grudgingly admit it gets a little slow are doing you a disservice.  Trust me, the time you save reading that could be better spent  doing a 9,000 piece puzzle that looks like the rest of this post

Heh, that's a pretty good image at the end!

Worth noting, I quit originally after Book 9, so I didn't actually get much farther than you did before calling "enough". I've even started a fanedit project to trim down the middle six books (from 6 to 12) to two books, which I occasionally pick at.

The tedious descriptions of minutiae, mainly scenery and clothing, aren't much different than Tolkien's ridiculously thorough photographic descriptions of scenery -- though there's vastly much more of the former to skip through for people who aren't in the mood or don't have the taste for it. I'm not fond of the clothing descriptions either, and I tended to plow past the scenery in my reads and rereads; but for my 'ultimate' reread I found I had much more tolerance for the scenery (and even a little more for the clothing), possibly because I wasn't rushing to re-catch-up on the series before the newest release nor eagerly hoping the next new book would move the plot along more significantly in various ways to answer fan-theory questions or get back to things I liked before.

But that's just me. I have NEVER blamed anyone for gagging on the increasingly pokey prose, even if they gave up in Book 2 (or Book 1 for that matter).


U'Geek, like Martok I recommend borrowing (or buying a cheap used copy) of Book 1 and then if you like that enough at least take a stab at Book 2 since the presentation shifts quite a bit. Book 3 frankly is weaker than the first two (though one of the most annoying characters suddenly shifts to being the most entertaining for the rest of the series, and that helps a lot.) If you make it up to Book 3 at all, I recommend at least getting that done if you can and trying Book 4 -- which is not only still the longest one (I think) by wordcount but also universally regarded as among the top three or four books of the series, and often among the top two or one.

If you just can't seem to get into Book 3 after liking the first two enough to get that far, God knows I won't blame you (though it's a pretty quick read relative to most of the series), but you might just use the aforementioned summary/commentary Butler threads at Tor.com to crutch through it and try Book 4.

If you liked the series enough to keep giving it chances up to Book 4, but aren't fully on board by then, you aren't going to miss anything significantly better and can safely quit. But obviously there's no reason to continue if you don't like the first one or two books enough to even try to continue.


Personally, I wish I was being paid by TOR to give out tepidly cautious recommendations like that.  ::)

Though I wish more I was being paid by TOR for my own series. WHICH GROGGIES CAN READ HALF THE FIRST BOOK OF COMPLETELY FOR FREE HERE ON THE FORUM IN CASE ANYONE HASN'T NOTICED THE SHAMELESS PLUGGING IN MY SIGGY YET!!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 23, 2014, 09:00:35 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 22, 2014, 08:03:03 PM
Feist's books were taken from his own homegrown D&D campaign with friends.  Knowing that, you can kind of see how the campaign must have unfolded by reading between the lines.  Really good ideas and storytelling.

Feist's series (and the Amber series by, God I feel so embarrassed as to forget who wrote that), are on my list of things to finally shamefully get around to someday after I either catch up on the Horus Heresy or feel like I need a break from that for a while.

Also Saberhagen's Berserker series though I'm not much for sci-fi reading by taste. Which is weird because I love science-fiction in movies. Apparently some neurons in my head are in an unbalanced marriage with each other...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 23, 2014, 12:14:55 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on October 23, 2014, 09:00:35 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on October 22, 2014, 08:03:03 PM
Feist's books were taken from his own homegrown D&D campaign with friends.  Knowing that, you can kind of see how the campaign must have unfolded by reading between the lines.  Really good ideas and storytelling.

Feist's series (and the Amber series by, God I feel so embarrassed as to forget who wrote that), are on my list of things to finally shamefully get around to someday after I either catch up on the Horus Heresy or feel like I need a break from that for a while.

Also Saberhagen's Berserker series though I'm not much for sci-fi reading by taste. Which is weird because I love science-fiction in movies. Apparently some neurons in my head are in an unbalanced marriage with each other...

Read the Amber series.  It is amazing.
Zelazny read most of the audio books before dying of cancer.  He did a great job.  Those are also awesome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 23, 2014, 01:12:09 PM
I read all 10 Amber books.  The first five books are about Corwin, a Prince of the Royal Family of Amber.  The second five are about his son, Merlin.  Overall, I liked the first five much better than the second five.

And Feist is a cherished childhood (teenage) memory.  I just re-read them last year.  He's got what seems a myriad of books in the same setting, most of which I have not read, but, he did a trilogy with Janny Wurts, "______ of the Empire, " with the missing words being, in order, Daughter, Servant and Mistress, that I enjoyed quite well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 27, 2014, 03:06:14 PM
By the by, I suppose I should mention I'm now halfway through A Memory of Light, the final book in the Wheel of Time.  I'm on the last leg, gents; so close... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 28, 2014, 02:22:50 PM
Did Towers of Midnight meet sufficient expectations, aside from it having practically nothing to do with the Towers of Midnight either literally or figuratively (in-story)?

Because offhand, and aside from some overly convenient character sabotage in a couple of cases (Gawyn you selfish nit), I had no complaints other than that. :)

And I feel reasonably safe assuming the grand finale is being sufficiently sufficient so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 29, 2014, 05:09:40 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on October 28, 2014, 02:22:50 PM
Did Towers of Midnight meet sufficient expectations, aside from it having practically nothing to do with the Towers of Midnight either literally or figuratively (in-story)?
Oh yes, it was most excellent.  I think his return to Tear, and then Arad Doman, were probably my favorite scenes.  But then, there were many sections I enjoyed, so picking just one or two that especially stood out for me is difficult. 

And yes, I am puzzled by the title.  Could he have picked anything *less* relevant?  ???  But whatever; as you indicated, a very minor nitpick. 




Quote from: JasonPratt on October 28, 2014, 02:22:50 PM
And I feel reasonably safe assuming the grand finale is being sufficiently sufficient so far.
Heh.  Let's just say I've already experienced my fair share of "Holy/Oh S***!" moments reading it... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on October 31, 2014, 05:48:35 PM
Finished Foundation and Empire and Warcraft: Dawn of the Aspects Pt 1 this week. I just started Second Foundation today, and I will probably pick up the rest of Feist's Riftwar Saga books this weekend at the store and start the next book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 31, 2014, 10:21:35 PM
Today I started reading Empire of the Summer Moon: Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History by by S. C. Gwynne.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on November 01, 2014, 05:32:57 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on October 31, 2014, 10:21:35 PM
Today I started reading Empire of the Summer Moon: Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History by by S. C. Gwynne.

I just finished that a couple weeks ago. Really good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 01, 2014, 12:44:54 PM
Neil deGrasse Tyson was a keynote speaker at our DevLearn conference in Vegas...fascinating guy and great speaker. I've not watched his version of Cosmos though I know it's on Netflix; I'll have to do that now as he's intrigued me.

Bought one of his books at the conference - Space Chronicles, about space exploration. He's a brilliant guy and the book is a great read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 02, 2014, 08:47:42 PM
Just about to start The Aircraft of World War I, An Essential Aircraft Identification Guide by Jack Herris and Bob Pearson. Some great paintings and such in here. Not sure if this is a descendant of those pocket guides from the 1980s and 1990s but it feels like it may be. I still have my pocket guide of aircraft from WWI and WWII that I bought when I was about 13.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 03, 2014, 01:36:26 PM
Finished Ebola K (book 1 of 3). Ends on a cliffhanger. The plot is good, the writing is pulp. My opinion went from good to ok when the weak description of the sleuthing to find the terrorists reads like a first class in MS Excel. Maybe the author should read some Agatha Christie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 03, 2014, 03:00:42 PM
Yet another kindle freebie.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F71OPiJcVVjL._AA1429_.jpg&hash=5dbda4652344106abd1e452334b7e3163125525e)

I swear, these days I buy the occasional kindle book just from feeling guilty about getting so many freebies.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 05, 2014, 12:25:28 AM
That is actually a fun book. worth downloading.
Many laughs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 06, 2014, 03:00:27 PM
I've done it.  I've finally done it. 


After approximately 8 months -- about 1 month longer than I'd initially estimated -- I've finished reading The Wheel of Time.  At the moment, I'm both drained and a little numb.  Will post thoughts once I've had a chance to ruminate. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 06, 2014, 09:56:16 PM
"Decidedly, this new pomade, it is a marvel for the moustaches!" - ?
:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 06, 2014, 10:19:16 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 06, 2014, 09:56:16 PM
"Decidedly, this new pomade, it is a marvel for the moustaches!" - ?
:-)

Exercising "ze leetle grey cells"?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 06, 2014, 10:22:01 PM
The mystery never had a chance.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 07, 2014, 03:07:06 PM
Quote from: Martok on November 06, 2014, 03:00:27 PM
I've done it.  I've finally done it.

Twill be curious about your thoughts.


I'll know Sunday night (or Monday morning) whether little-author-sister Marie Brennan won this year's World Fantasy Novel of the Year. Her fellow novelist in that promotional video upthread (the other Marie  8) ) won the Hugo for her book! The only other top 3 sf/f novel award is the Nebula, which neither one would qualify for.

Her friends are naturally super-hyped for her.  ;D Even being a finalist is a big deal.


Now that you've finished WoT, Martok, you might appreciate her own re-read analysis of the series: http://swan-tower.livejournal.com/567134.html
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 08, 2014, 11:02:34 AM
I just posted a thread on this question, but figured I'd ask it here, too, in case someone knows the answer who isn't looking at the thread titles.


Put shortly, the Black Library won't take my money (anymore?) because I'm a stinking Yankee or something. ;)

I started reading the Horus Heresy series a few months back, bought Horus Rising and Descent of Angels in a couple of different physical formats (because the ebooks weren't the slightest bit less expensive); but then decided the portability of having ebooks was better even though not less expensive. So I bought another couple of prequels to HR, (Promethean Sun and Legion) as mobi formats, i.e. native to Kindle. (I think a new pre-HR book has been recently released, but in a special audio enhanced format thus only as an epub -- which might or might not work on old Kindles, I don't know.)

(That's a question, too, but not the main one.)

The main problem is that even though I must have bought those two ebooks somewhere, and I'm 99.99999% sure I remember buying them from the Black Library (which is the only place I know that sells the ebook formats), they don't take US cash anymore or convert the currencies. Or if they do, I don't know how to trigger that.

I can put the books in my cart, and sign in with my account, and do a few other things up to a point, but eventually the site says I can't buy the books because my credit card's billing address is in the US. It never gives me a chance to tell it I want to pay by Paypal instead of credit card.

I sent a tech support message to the BL a week or so ago, but haven't gotten a reply yet. So I thought I'd poll anyone here who uses them from the United States (or not-Britain maybe ;) ) to see if anyone has had a similar problem or knows how to trigger US currency on the site.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 08, 2014, 11:27:05 AM
See my reply in your thread.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 10, 2014, 08:31:23 AM
Argh, haven't heard yet whether Marie won or not last night. I'm inclined to think that means she didn't win, but it could be internet things.

The finalist book is A Natural History of Dragons by the way; forgot to re-mention that last time.  :uglystupid2: I would Amazon link to it but my Amazon link capabilities aren't working this morning for some inscrutable and probably old-browser-related reason. (Every other Amazon capability seems to be working, just not book links.  ??? Weird.)


Update: winner was A Stranger in Olondria by Sofia Samatar. That's a win for small press, too, I think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on November 10, 2014, 11:07:23 PM
I wrapped up the Riftwar Saga reading Magician: Master, Silverthorn, and Darkness at Sethanon. I also read World of Warcraft: Dawn of the Aspects Part 2. Now back to the rest of the Foundation series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 10, 2014, 11:16:58 PM
How did you like Feist?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on November 11, 2014, 11:35:35 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 10, 2014, 11:16:58 PM
How did you like Feist?

I enjoyed it. At some point I will probably continue to read more of the Riftwar Cycle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 11, 2014, 01:45:48 PM
Reading

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F81SSc5BKo4L.jpg&hash=62a7b43681db23c724b5c7be304bc7a7b8607607)

He has a zen like way with words. The writing is wonderful, somehow filling in what I have been missing in a lot of recent fictional reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 11, 2014, 06:52:02 PM
^^ Is that an antique edition there?!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 11, 2014, 07:56:03 PM
There are many versions on amazon. That cover caught my eye. I got the kindle version of course.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 13, 2014, 08:00:52 AM
Just started The Wicked by Douglas Nicholas, a dark fantasy set in 14th century England and the loose sequel to Something Red, the author's debut novel, which was very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on November 13, 2014, 05:45:38 PM
The  Riftwar Saga Trilogy: Magician, Silverthorn, A Darkness at Sethanon are easy up there as my favourite Fantasy series. If you enjoy fantasy then they are must reads.

Quote from: vyshka on November 11, 2014, 11:35:35 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 10, 2014, 11:16:58 PM
How did you like Feist?

I enjoyed it. At some point I will probably continue to read more of the Riftwar Cycle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 15, 2014, 11:53:32 AM
I got back from a two week Caribbean cruise.  Over the last 2 & 1/2 weeks I read:
a] Homeland - first book in the Drizzit Series
b] Finished two books on the Franco-Prussian War
c] Read about half of a WW1 book on the War in the East in 1914.
d] Finished about half of the Guns of August
e] Read the Midway book Incredible Victory

The links between WW1 war planning and the Franco-Prussian War are very interesting.  Only 2-3 military leaders before the war started in 1914 realized the implications of larger armies and industrial warfare.  The only person I've found who thought the war would last 4+ years was Kitchner.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 15, 2014, 02:28:56 PM
Excellent. The cruise as well as the books.

I was reading (Chapter 3) Guns of August last night myself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 16, 2014, 03:18:50 AM
Quote from: airboy on November 15, 2014, 11:53:32 AM
I got back from a two week Caribbean cruise.  Over the last 2 & 1/2 weeks I read:
a] Homeland - first book in the Drizzit Series
b] Finished two books on the Franco-Prussian War
c] Read about half of a WW1 book on the War in the East in 1914.
d] Finished about half of the Guns of August
e] Read the Midway book Incredible Victory

The links between WW1 war planning and the Franco-Prussian War are very interesting.  Only 2-3 military leaders before the war started in 1914 realized the implications of larger armies and industrial warfare.  The only person I've found who thought the war would last 4+ years was Kitchner.

thats a pretty heavy reading list for a cruise.  no open bar or buffet?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on November 16, 2014, 10:46:51 AM
^ I hope it wasn't a granny cruise  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 16, 2014, 01:02:17 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on November 16, 2014, 03:18:50 AM
Quote from: airboy on November 15, 2014, 11:53:32 AM
I got back from a two week Caribbean cruise.  Over the last 2 & 1/2 weeks I read:
a] Homeland - first book in the Drizzit Series
b] Finished two books on the Franco-Prussian War
c] Read about half of a WW1 book on the War in the East in 1914.
d] Finished about half of the Guns of August
e] Read the Midway book Incredible Victory

The links between WW1 war planning and the Franco-Prussian War are very interesting.  Only 2-3 military leaders before the war started in 1914 realized the implications of larger armies and industrial warfare.  The only person I've found who thought the war would last 4+ years was Kitchner.

thats a pretty heavy reading list for a cruise.  no open bar or buffet?

With diabetics, heavy drinking or eating insanely have bad side effects.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on November 16, 2014, 03:58:10 PM
Quote from: Martok on November 06, 2014, 03:00:27 PM
I've done it.  I've finally done it. 


After approximately 8 months -- about 1 month longer than I'd initially estimated -- I've finished reading The Wheel of Time.  At the moment, I'm both drained and a little numb.  Will post thoughts once I've had a chance to ruminate.

tis that time of year where the parental amazon book voucher comes down the chimney - do i start with book 1, or one of them there fancy prequels ive read about?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 16, 2014, 04:18:11 PM
Start with book 1 (The Eye of the World).  Then read The Great Hunt, followed by The Dragon Reborn.  By the time you've read those three books, you'll know whether or not if the rest of the series is going to grab you. 

Yes, there is a prequel, New Spring.  However, while I enjoyed it (unlike Jason), it's not necessary to the rest of the series.  In addition, it won't make as much sense until you've gotten much further into the books (Crown of Swords at least -- probably later). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on November 16, 2014, 04:21:59 PM
thanks Martok, ill order those 3

just the 1800 pages over the christmas period!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 16, 2014, 04:29:37 PM
You're welcome! 

I'll be impressed if you're able to get through them in that time.  Even I'm not as proficient a reader these days...  :-[ 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on November 16, 2014, 04:53:05 PM
I just finished The Walls of the Universe  (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002LA0AXY?btkr=1) by Paul Melko. If you liked the TV series Sliders (well, the first two seasons anyway) you will probably like this novel. It's much darker than Sliders but still fun. I must read the sequel now! But not until I finish The Accidental Time Machine (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015DWMRA?btkr=1).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 16, 2014, 06:01:15 PM
UCG, for your own sanity, DON'T start The Wheel of Time!  You'll regret the time you wasted when you finally give in to the wall of words that no longer have any meaning because Jordan has used them repeatedly, ad infinitum, or written so many of them that even the spelling of the word, a, no longer looks correct.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 17, 2014, 05:01:37 AM
Calm yourself, 'phro.  Not everyone is overwhelmed by pages full of words.  O:-) 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on November 17, 2014, 05:36:17 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 16, 2014, 06:01:15 PM
UCG, for your own sanity, DON'T start The Wheel of Time!  You'll regret the time you wasted when you finally give in to the wall of words that no longer have any meaning because Jordan has used them repeatedly, ad infinitum, or written so many of them that even the spelling of the word, a, no longer looks correct.

lmao - i trust Martoks reading suggestions - if theres an author out there who can raise a lump in his ice cold, soulless throat i want to see what its about - admittedly thats 20000 pages from now!

ill get the first 3 and if i dont enjoy ill come back here and ask you for a suggestion MD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 17, 2014, 06:55:58 AM
If you're able...poor sap.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 17, 2014, 08:26:37 AM
To be fair, what usually kills people with bitter, bitter resentment, isn't the first 3 books, but somewhere from Book 6 onward.

Still, you go UGeek! Keep us updated. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 17, 2014, 02:05:12 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 16, 2014, 06:01:15 PM
UCG, for your own sanity, DON'T start The Wheel of Time!  You'll regret the time you wasted when you finally give in to the wall of words that no longer have any meaning because Jordan has used them repeatedly, ad infinitum, or written so many of them that even the spelling of the word, a, no longer looks correct.

I read the Wheel of Time series and I don't think it's *that* bad. But, as they say: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 17, 2014, 08:42:13 PM
Agreed.  But if I can save just ONE person from the time they spend with that series THAT THEY WILL NEVER GET BACK...I will consider my life well lived.   ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 17, 2014, 09:58:35 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 17, 2014, 08:42:13 PM
Agreed.  But if I can save just ONE person from the time they spend with that series THAT THEY WILL NEVER GET BACK...I will consider my life well lived.   ;D

Agreed.  I got about 50% into book #2 when I realized what a succubus Robert Jordan was.  If you want to read 10 well edited books - read the Chronicles of Amber.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 17, 2014, 10:02:35 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 17, 2014, 08:42:13 PM
if I can save just ONE person from the time they spend with that series THAT THEY WILL NEVER GET BACK...I will consider my life well lived.   ;D

This is what I would tell anyone wanting to read Harry Turtledove's Worldwar series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 17, 2014, 10:20:19 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 17, 2014, 10:02:35 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 17, 2014, 08:42:13 PM
if I can save just ONE person from the time they spend with that series THAT THEY WILL NEVER GET BACK...I will consider my life well lived.   ;D

This is what I would tell anyone wanting to read Harry Turtledove's Worldwar series.

Too late- I made it all the way to (and through) Homeward Bound.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 17, 2014, 11:22:54 PM
Quote from: airboy on November 17, 2014, 09:58:35 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 17, 2014, 08:42:13 PM
Agreed.  But if I can save just ONE person from the time they spend with that series THAT THEY WILL NEVER GET BACK...I will consider my life well lived.   ;D

Agreed.  I got about 50% into book #2 when I realized what a succubus Robert Jordan was.  If you want to read 10 well edited books - read the Chronicles of Amber.

I will heartily second The Chronicles of Amber.  The first five are better than the second five.  And they are not 900 page monsters, either.  If I could find my trade paper of all 10, I would check for page count, but, it can't be much more than ~ 800.  About 2000 pages in originally published form, I would guess.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 18, 2014, 07:32:31 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 17, 2014, 10:20:19 PM
Too late- I made it all the way to (and through) Homeward Bound.

Oh, Stagger. Why would you do that to yourself? It's like going to a 17-hour reading of The Vagina Monologues at a local high school drama club. I got through the first four books and kept thinking, "Surely something is going to happen...surely SOMETHING is going to happen...okay...nothing's happening."

That series...SO many words, SO much Harry said, and yet, SO little interesting about it. I kept expecting some kind of major twist...and nothing. It's like most of his other books...it's pretty much just "Hey, check this world out. Isn't it cool? Well, uh, no, not really much is going on. But, but, but...hey! Space aliens!"

Yawwwwn.

He has some amazing ideas...but his execution is dull, his characters shallow and unfulfilling, and the stories always seem to ponder along like an elephant on weed. What's amazing is that's pretty much EVERY book he's written, and trust me, I've tried several of his books/series. It's the same damn thing, every time.

I know some of you guys love his work, and more power to you for deriving enjoyment from it. He's just not for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 18, 2014, 07:37:22 AM
It gets worse- I also read the entire Southern Victory series as well. I need help...  :idiot2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 18, 2014, 09:21:05 AM
Grey, did you ever finish off WoT when Sanderson took the reins?

Airboy: Okay, now I have a horrible mental image of RJ dolled up as a succubus... (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wargamer.com%2Fforums%2Fsmiley%2Ficon_explosion.gif&hash=0fe8ed842a67445fe861acf01002d5a9b5b6c9f0)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 18, 2014, 04:48:44 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on November 18, 2014, 09:21:05 AM
Grey, did you ever finish off WoT when Sanderson took the reins?....

I finished reading what Robert Jordan wrote. I haven't read any of the Wheel of Time books that were written by Brandon Sanderson after Robert Jordan's death seven years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 18, 2014, 08:38:30 PM
Someone type succubus?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 19, 2014, 03:18:05 PM
GB, you should definitely take some time and finish off the series with the trilogy finale.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 19, 2014, 03:28:06 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on November 19, 2014, 03:18:05 PM
GB, you should definitely take some time and finish off the series with the trilogy finale.
Seconded. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 19, 2014, 05:17:11 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on November 17, 2014, 08:26:37 AM
To be fair, what usually kills people with bitter, bitter resentment, isn't the first 3 books, but somewhere from Book 6 onward.

Still, you go UGeek! Keep us updated. :)

That was me, I was good with the first 5 or 6. I kept expecting the next to have the last battle...then I started to feel I had been had.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 20, 2014, 10:19:14 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on November 19, 2014, 03:18:05 PM
GB, you should definitely take some time and finish off the series with the trilogy finale.

I may do that some day, but to me that series was finished when Robert Jordan died.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on November 21, 2014, 12:01:44 AM
Gonna start Six Gun Tarot (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0765367513/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)  soon.

It's some Supernatural Western setting containing some Lovecraft influences, along with a little Steampunk and Dark Tower perhaps. 

First in the series, just released this year.  Most of the reviews say it's good and someone highly recommended it on the Shadows Of Brimstone BGG forums.


I grabbed the paperback version of the first one, since it was the same price as the Kindle one (and I'm a Book Sniffer!!).  But if it's decent I'll probably pick up a copy of book #2, The Shotgun Arcana, also.  It just came out IIRC.


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fd.gr-assets.com%2Fbooks%2F1344318831l%2F15793094.jpg&hash=3314e7f9123e9d8d869696ed213d985a29f8b2ef)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fd.gr-assets.com%2Fbooks%2F1394486458l%2F20518813.jpg&hash=8941eb8db364c12603663734d224f0dfacbd6d46)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 21, 2014, 06:37:17 AM
Have any of you guys read Eric Brown's (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Brown_%28pilot%29) autobiography "Wings on my Sleeve"? I'm wondering if it is chock full of gritty 'aeroplane' goodness or if it's 'softer' on the tech details.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 21, 2014, 09:09:24 AM
Nef, that looks like a straight-up Graboid homage in the background of the first cover! (Great cover designs, too.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 21, 2014, 09:19:07 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on November 20, 2014, 10:19:14 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on November 19, 2014, 03:18:05 PM
GB, you should definitely take some time and finish off the series with the trilogy finale.

I may do that some day, but to me that series was finished when Robert Jordan died.

Well, Sanderson did work from his notes, though reportedly that's most obvious in the last book -- TOR and RJ's widow (who's an editor at TOR) hired him with the understanding that he would do his best to put RJ's plot notes into the final books; and I have a hard time imagining anyone loved his writing style so much (especially after Crossroads) that they just couldn't continue for that reason. But for what it's worth, a lot of us (myself included) felt like Sanderson was doing a good job channeling (pun intended) RJ's-writing-style-but-better.

It really does feel (to those of us who liked it) like a return to the quality of Books 4 and 5 or better even. I'm not going to say like a return to Books 1 and 2, since the characters' situations are so different, but the somewhat Stephen Kingish aspects of those books come back as well.

At the very least, I recommend reading Leigh Butler's WOT recap series, available completely for free, over at TOR.com, so you'll at least learn how various plot elements wrapped up. She does a good job summarizing chapters (and chapter blocs) and then commenting on them from a critical-fan perspective.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 21, 2014, 10:01:59 AM
I won't dispute what you're saying, Jason. But to me when a person dies that's it. It isn't like a job you just hire someone else to do, it is the deceased author's creation and it is unique to them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 21, 2014, 11:42:06 AM
I like your style GB.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 21, 2014, 11:46:43 AM
Got the Philip Marlow complete collection as well as a couple more Le Carre books. Now I need a fireplace, shortbread cookies, and a good whiskey.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 21, 2014, 12:42:32 PM
I have to agree with GB too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 21, 2014, 05:52:43 PM
I can respect that. :)

But RJ did want it finished out along the lines he had indicated, and TOR and Harriet (his widow) respected that, too, in commissioning Sanderson and overseeing what he did with it.

It is exactly because I loved RJ's work (warts and all, sometimes mountainous warts ;) ), that I was glad to see RJ's work completed in fidelity to his intentions in a high quality way. I didn't think of it being Sanderson's work at all, though realistically I know he had to have actively contributed a lot of the final shape, too. I know at least one good friend (and fellow author) WOT fan who can't stand Sanderson's work who still thought he brought RJ's work home as RJ's work.

I can't deny there were financial considerations from TOR to finishing the series instead of leaving it forever incomplete (after increasingly poorly received installments, too), but it doesn't feel like a cash-in. It felt like someone giving a dying RJ help finishing out his life's work (even though RJ was already dead).

That doesn't mean fans have to read it, of course. And strictly speaking RJ could have changed his mind about how he planned to go forward on any points; and we may not ever be able to tell for sure how much Sanderson added or altered, even though the goal was to include as much as possible. So from an artistic standpoint, I understand there's a real argument for this not being RJ's ending because RJ didn't actually write it.

Then again, he actually wrote Crossroads of Twilight, so, you know...  :buck2: I can't exactly say with confidence, even though KoD was a major improvement back to form, he would have finished out alone as well as Sanderson (in effect) helped him finish out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on November 22, 2014, 09:13:26 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on November 16, 2014, 06:01:15 PMwhen you finally give in to the wall of words that no longer have any meaning because Jordan has used them repeatedly, ad infinitum, or written so many of them that even the spelling of the word, a, no longer looks correct.

this has been my relationship with the internet for the last 10 years.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 22, 2014, 02:39:43 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on November 21, 2014, 05:52:43 PM
I can respect that. :)

But RJ did want it finished out along the lines he had indicated, and TOR and Harriet (his widow) respected that, too, in commissioning Sanderson and overseeing what he did with it.

It is exactly because I loved RJ's work (warts and all, sometimes mountainous warts ;) ), that I was glad to see RJ's work completed in fidelity to his intentions in a high quality way. I didn't think of it being Sanderson's work at all, though realistically I know he had to have actively contributed a lot of the final shape, too. I know at least one good friend (and fellow author) WOT fan who can't stand Sanderson's work who still thought he brought RJ's work home as RJ's work.

I can't deny there were financial considerations from TOR to finishing the series instead of leaving it forever incomplete (after increasingly poorly received installments, too), but it doesn't feel like a cash-in. It felt like someone giving a dying RJ help finishing out his life's work (even though RJ was already dead).

That doesn't mean fans have to read it, of course. And strictly speaking RJ could have changed his mind about how he planned to go forward on any points; and we may not ever be able to tell for sure how much Sanderson added or altered, even though the goal was to include as much as possible. So from an artistic standpoint, I understand there's a real argument for this not being RJ's ending because RJ didn't actually write it.

Then again, he actually wrote Crossroads of Twilight, so, you know...  :buck2: I can't exactly say with confidence, even though KoD was a major improvement back to form, he would have finished out alone as well as Sanderson (in effect) helped him finish out.
You've said everything I could've and more, Jason (and much more eloquently too).  I can only second what you've posted here. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 25, 2014, 09:20:05 PM
I have been rereading Bimbos of the Death Sun for the first time in a decade.  It is a wonderful, light murder-mystery at a Science Fiction Con.  If you have ever been to a Con, you will see lots of archetypes in the book.

I'm also almost finished with a rereading (audio) of the Guns of August.  What has struck me this time through is that Lord Kitchener seems to be the only major figure at the start of the war that thought it would last for years and involve armies of millions.  The stupidity of the Kaiser is always there in any book on WW1 political/military situation.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 25, 2014, 10:16:05 PM
Quote from: airboy on November 25, 2014, 09:20:05 PM

I'm also almost finished with a rereading (audio) of the Guns of August.  What has struck me this time through is that Lord Kitchener seems to be the only major figure at the start of the war that thought it would last for years and involve armies of millions.  The stupidity of the Kaiser is always there in any book on WW1 political/military situation.

It strikes me that we are in the same position again. If MAD is not working as a deterrent, you have the mass slaughter of WWI again. We very quickly need to get to a point where the power of defensive systems are an order of magnitude greater than offensive systems.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 26, 2014, 06:24:31 AM
Having just finished my annual rereading of Allen Dean Foster's The Damned trilogy, I've now begun reading (again, although it's been a couple years) Patrick by Stephen R. Lawhead. 




Quote from: airboy on November 25, 2014, 09:20:05 PM
I have been rereading Bimbos of the Death Sun for the first time in a decade.  It is a wonderful, light murder-mystery at a Science Fiction Con.  If you have ever been to a Con, you will see lots of archetypes in the book.
I really need to get my hands on a copy.  I read (and enjoyed) that one many years ago, and have long itched to read it again. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on November 27, 2014, 10:33:51 AM
Fire and Movement by Peter hart.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Fire-Movement-British-Expeditionary-Campaign/dp/0199989273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417102416&sr=8-1&keywords=fire+and+movement (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Fire-Movement-British-Expeditionary-Campaign/dp/0199989273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417102416&sr=8-1&keywords=fire+and+movement)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 08, 2014, 12:23:49 AM
I have finished Heritage of Cyador by L.E. Modesitt Jr.  Excellent read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on December 11, 2014, 05:16:35 PM
Just finished Red Winter by Colin Taber.  It's the second book in the United States of Vinland.  The writing is a little weak, but the story is good.  Would like it if he talked more about developing the settlements and what they need, besides more people, to start new settlements.  For $5, it's worth it. 

I cannot wait for the next book so I can throw more money at the author. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on December 11, 2014, 11:27:02 PM
Just finished Prague Fatale: A Bernie Gunther Novel by P Kerr.

Another great read in the series. Berlin Noir is well worth buying aswell.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 11, 2014, 11:48:06 PM
I was surprised to see this at B&N the other day.  chances are I'll pick it up before the weekends over.
http://www.amazon.com/Death-Leaping-Horseman-Division-Stalingrad/dp/0811714047
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on December 12, 2014, 10:01:50 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fthechive.files.wordpress.com%2F2014%2F12%2Ftumblr_ngefvoykaa1qjnhqgo1_500.jpg&hash=9f73e6709c27bc01b978a8d5b2afd082b8f6ef16)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 12, 2014, 12:14:13 PM
^^ Or at glowing dots. :)

(Or at... whatever ePearl is? Like an etch-a-sketch?)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Skwerl on December 12, 2014, 05:03:32 PM
The Compleat Adventures of Jules de Grandin Volume 2.  Volume One was excellent and this one has been great so far.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on December 12, 2014, 08:13:55 PM
Currently reading Second Foundation, and Mark Fabi's Wyrm. In the past month I read Edding's Belgariad series, and 2 books of essays about Soviet Chess players by Genna Sosonko - The Reliable Past and The Smart Chip from St. Petersburg.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 13, 2014, 09:06:06 PM
I liked the Belgariad, but, it was way too Lord of the Rings for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 13, 2014, 09:09:22 PM
did it baggins down a lot?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on December 13, 2014, 09:16:14 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 13, 2014, 09:06:06 PM
I liked the Belgariad, but, it was way too Lord of the Rings for me.

A guilty pleasure from childhood.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 14, 2014, 09:15:05 AM
Quote from: vyshka on December 13, 2014, 09:16:14 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 13, 2014, 09:06:06 PM
I liked the Belgariad, but, it was way too Lord of the Rings for me.

A guilty pleasure from childhood.

That's when I read it, too.  I read fantasy almost exclusively as a youth.  I read Terry Brook's 'Sword of Shannara,' a VERY derivative series by Dennis L. McKiernan, that was commissioned to be as much like LotR as possible, 'Dragonlance,' by Weis & Hickman, Feist's 'Magician,' series.  A host of stuff.  Some good, some bad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on December 14, 2014, 04:03:14 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 14, 2014, 09:15:05 AM
Quote from: vyshka on December 13, 2014, 09:16:14 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 13, 2014, 09:06:06 PM
I liked the Belgariad, but, it was way too Lord of the Rings for me.

A guilty pleasure from childhood.

That's when I read it, too.  I read fantasy almost exclusively as a youth.  I read Terry Brook's 'Sword of Shannara,' a VERY derivative series by Dennis L. McKiernan, that was commissioned to be as much like LotR as possible, 'Dragonlance,' by Weis & Hickman, Feist's 'Magician,' series.  A host of stuff.  Some good, some bad.

My fantasy reading has been very limited outside of Eddings and Jordan. I've mostly been a sci-fi reader. This year I've read the Riftwar Saga, The Icewind Dale Trilogy, The Dark Elf Trilogy, the 2nd book in Sanderson's Stormlight Archive series, and part of a serialized Warcraft book Dawn of the Aspects (which I will probably finish in the next couple of weeks).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on December 14, 2014, 04:12:15 PM
Currently reading The Apocalypse Troll by David Weber.  About a third of the way through and a good read so far.  Not sure where it's going to end up though. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 14, 2014, 04:27:32 PM
I read Apocalypse Troll many years ago and, iirc, enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 14, 2014, 05:33:56 PM
Quote from: vyshka on December 14, 2014, 04:03:14 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 14, 2014, 09:15:05 AM
Quote from: vyshka on December 13, 2014, 09:16:14 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 13, 2014, 09:06:06 PM
I liked the Belgariad, but, it was way too Lord of the Rings for me.

A guilty pleasure from childhood.

That's when I read it, too.  I read fantasy almost exclusively as a youth.  I read Terry Brook's 'Sword of Shannara,' a VERY derivative series by Dennis L. McKiernan, that was commissioned to be as much like LotR as possible, 'Dragonlance,' by Weis & Hickman, Feist's 'Magician,' series.  A host of stuff.  Some good, some bad.

My fantasy reading has been very limited outside of Eddings and Jordan. I've mostly been a sci-fi reader. This year I've read the Riftwar Saga, The Icewind Dale Trilogy, The Dark Elf Trilogy, the 2nd book in Sanderson's Stormlight Archive series, and part of a serialized Warcraft book Dawn of the Aspects (which I will probably finish in the next couple of weeks).

If you've not read Tolkien, you really should.  It's the benchmark that everyone strives for. Over the years, many attempts have been made to remake LotR by various authors and with varying degrees of success.  Eddings is one.  Terry Brooks is another.  Dennis L. McKiernan (whos Wikipedia baldly states that he was commissioned to write LotR over again but change the names and the setting a bit.)

Having said all that, grand quests against the ultimate evil manned by Men, Dwarves and Elves, with a Wizard advisor in tow, are not the only type of fantasy.  I LOVE the first four Feist books as well as Mercedes Lackey's Valdemar books.  The first Dragonlance Chronicles are excellent.  Roger Zelazny does two five book series about Corwin of Amber.  The first five are better than the second there.  Elric of Melnibone, Michael Moorcock's most famous iteration of the Eternal Champion, is dark and brooding.  There is SO much good stuff out there.  But definitely read Tolkien.  You can make up your own mind how good or bad you think it is, but, that way, you'll know what the rest are comparing themselves to.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 14, 2014, 06:28:54 PM
Currently reading Bactria: History of a Forgotten Empire by H.G. Rawlinson, originally published in 1912 (!)

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Bactria

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on December 14, 2014, 06:45:53 PM
2014 in review

Since Elite goes live on Tuesday the odds are I won't get much else read by the end of the year.

I did read a bit more this year than usual though:

Among the Thugs by Bill Buford
Going Interstellar
Hackers by Steven Levy
iWoz by Steve Wozniak
Just for Fun by Linus Torvalds
The Silicon Man by Charles Platt
Neuromancer, and Count Zero by William Gibson
Words of Radiance by Brandon Sanderson
On Basilisk Station, and The Honor of the Queen by David Weber
The Generals by Thomas Ricks
Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy
Viper Pilot by Dan Hampton
Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey
The Mote in God's Eye by Niven and Pournelle
Spin by Robert Charles Wilson
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
The Butcher of Anderson Station by James S.A. Corey
The Martian by Andy Weir
Homeland, Exile, and Sojourn by R.A. Salvatore
Crystal Shard, Streams of Silver, and Halfling's Gem by R.A. Salvatore
The Cathedral and the Bazaar by Eric S. Raymond
Foundation,, Foundation and Empire, and Second Foundation by Asimov
Magician, Silverthorn, and Darkness at Sethanon by Feist
Pawn of Prophecy, Queen of Sorcery, Magician's Gambit, Castle of Wizardry, and Enchanter's Endgame by Eddings
The Reliable Past, and Smart Chip from Saint Petersburg by Genna Sosonko
Chessbase Complete by Jon Edwards
Wyrm by Mark Fabi
Dawn of the Aspects by Richard Knaak
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 14, 2014, 06:54:04 PM
Wow you read more than I do...madness! That is an impressive list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 14, 2014, 07:26:21 PM
Agreed on vyshka's list.  That's an impressive amount.  Some old favorites in there, too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 14, 2014, 10:19:49 PM
Yeah re: the Foundation series. Need to look up The Cathedral and the Bazaar...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on December 15, 2014, 03:56:43 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 14, 2014, 10:19:49 PM
Yeah re: the Foundation series. Need to look up The Cathedral and the Bazaar...

Probably not interesting unless you are interested in software development, open source in particular. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 15, 2014, 08:36:34 AM
Yeah i found that out through Amazon :) Good title though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 15, 2014, 12:01:33 PM
Quote from: vyshka on December 14, 2014, 06:45:53 PM
Magician, Silverthorn, and Darkness and Sethanon by Feist

Great series. One of my favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 15, 2014, 12:38:58 PM
Have finally started reading Cauldron of Ghosts, the most recent Honorverse novel.  I do so enjoy its utterly irreverent tone/humor.  :D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 15, 2014, 12:53:26 PM
I've been slowly reading Until The Final Hour by Traudl Junge, one of Hitler's secretaries. I believe they based the movie The Downfall on her memoirs. Been meaning to read it for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 15, 2014, 03:56:56 PM
I've seen that secretary all over the History Channel...is she still alive?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 15, 2014, 05:14:27 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 15, 2014, 03:56:56 PM
I've seen that secretary all over the History Channel...is she still alive?

"Next week... on Ancient Aliens..."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 15, 2014, 07:37:27 PM
Finished A Call for the Dead, now starting The Hobbit, since I only remember the general story from my youth. I want to see the last movie soon, with a fresh memory of the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 15, 2014, 07:40:38 PM
I'm not entirely sure it will help you much.  Just kidding.  It's my love/hate with what Peter Jackson did to LotR showing through.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 15, 2014, 07:42:39 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 15, 2014, 07:37:27 PM
Finished A Call for the Dead, now starting The Hobbit, since I only remember the general story from my youth. I want to see the last movie soon, with a fresh memory of the book.

I'm no Tolkien expert (by a long shot) but wouldn't 'the Silmarillion' also be required reading for the Hobbit movies?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 15, 2014, 08:34:53 PM
The Appendices at the end of 'Return of the King,' hold a lot of the 'off screen,' moments in 'The Hobbit,' that came to be included in the movies.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 15, 2014, 08:36:25 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 15, 2014, 03:56:56 PM
I've seen that secretary all over the History Channel...is she still alive?

No, she died in 2002. The bits of her interview used in Downfall were taken from a previous biopic done on Hitler's secretaries, though I can't recall its name nor how long before she died that it was used.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 16, 2014, 09:04:06 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 15, 2014, 08:34:53 PM
The Appendices at the end of 'Return of the King,' hold a lot of the 'off screen,' moments in 'The Hobbit,' that came to be included in the movies.

True. The Silmaril material would be mostly two whole ages earlier than the Hobbit anyway. And the rights to filming it are tied up in litigation.

I heard that Ian McKellen was hinting that PJ might not be done and might go back to the Middle-Earth well, but if so it won't be Sil material unless those rights get sorted out. (Then again the Hobbit rights looked like they could never be sorted out until finally the sides sat down and said, "Wait, just how stupidly greedy are we? -- we could each be earning a ton of money instead of neither of us earning anything!")

The basic Sil story would be pretty epic, and could still feature Galadriel who was around at the time: Morgoroth, the actual 'Satan' of the ME milieu, comes directly to Middle-Earth to screw people over, and is beaten by the first (and to date only) purely human/elven romantic couple, the parents of Elrond (who is actually half-elven, the only one in ME) and grandparents of Arwen (who is, like, 3/4 elven and 1/4 human, or thereabouts. Aragorn was singing about their story in the marshes before Weathertop in the extended edition of the first movie; and the elven woman Elbereth was Galadriel's daughter.) The Palintirs were made for that fight, too, if I recall correctly...?

Elrond couldn't be in it (except as a baby I guess) but Sauron and some other ancient characters could.


Another possibility would be the first War of the Rings, which would feature a lot more continuity with the LotR cast including the arrival of Gandalf (and the other Istari/Maiar/minor angels). Benedict Cumberbatch could actually play Sauron in that one, heh. ;) How much of that is tied up in Silmaril rights I don't know -- I've forgotten to what extent that story shows up in the Sil at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 16, 2014, 03:56:06 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on December 15, 2014, 07:42:39 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 15, 2014, 07:37:27 PM
Finished A Call for the Dead, now starting The Hobbit, since I only remember the general story from my youth. I want to see the last movie soon, with a fresh memory of the book.

I'm no Tolkien expert (by a long shot) but wouldn't 'the Silmarillion' also be required reading for the Hobbit movies?
Not required at all, no.  While The Hobbit includes a mention of Gondolin, and 1-2 other references to the First Age, overall The Silmarillion has very little direct connection with the events in The Hobbit. 

I do recommend it for those who've enjoyed Tolkien's other work (especially LotR and The Hobbit), but it need not be read in conjunction with anything else IMO. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 16, 2014, 08:03:22 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on December 16, 2014, 09:04:06 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 15, 2014, 08:34:53 PM
The Appendices at the end of 'Return of the King,' hold a lot of the 'off screen,' moments in 'The Hobbit,' that came to be included in the movies.

True. The Silmaril material would be mostly two whole ages earlier than the Hobbit anyway. And the rights to filming it are tied up in litigation.

I heard that Ian McKellen was hinting that PJ might not be done and might go back to the Middle-Earth well, but if so it won't be Sil material unless those rights get sorted out. (Then again the Hobbit rights looked like they could never be sorted out until finally the sides sat down and said, "Wait, just how stupidly greedy are we? -- we could each be earning a ton of money instead of neither of us earning anything!")

The basic Sil story would be pretty epic, and could still feature Galadriel who was around at the time: Morgoroth, the actual 'Satan' of the ME milieu, comes directly to Middle-Earth to screw people over, and is beaten by the first (and to date only) purely human/elven romantic couple, the parents of Elrond (who is actually half-elven, the only one in ME) and grandparents of Arwen (who is, like, 3/4 elven and 1/4 human, or thereabouts. Aragorn was singing about their story in the marshes before Weathertop in the extended edition of the first movie; and the elven woman Elbereth was Galadriel's daughter.) The Palintirs were made for that fight, too, if I recall correctly...?

Elrond couldn't be in it (except as a baby I guess) but Sauron and some other ancient characters could.


Another possibility would be the first War of the Rings, which would feature a lot more continuity with the LotR cast including the arrival of Gandalf (and the other Istari/Maiar/minor angels). Benedict Cumberbatch could actually play Sauron in that one, heh. ;) How much of that is tied up in Silmaril rights I don't know -- I've forgotten to what extent that story shows up in the Sil at all.

Just off the top of my head, Feanor took the liquid light of the Two Trees (which correspond to the sun light and moonlight) and encases them in indestructible crystal.  Morgoth, who was defeated by the Valar, before elves came in to the world, was brought before the Valar again for judgement.  He is released and almost immediately starts causing trouble. 

In league with Ungoliant, the mother of all spiders (and forebear of Shelob), Morgoth and Ungoliant kill the Two Trees and go stright for Feanor's stronghold where they bust in, take the Silmarils and slay the over king of all the elves.  Then they flee back to Middle Earth to the fastness of Thangorodrim, Morgoth's base in the far north of the world.

Feanor then leads a host of elves out of Valinor in pursuit of Morgoth and the Silmarils.  There is kinslaying and hardship before the elves finally make it to Middle Earth and set up kingdoms.  As a result of all the elf on elf violence, the Valar let it be known that they refuse to help the elves in their fight against Morgoth and furthermore, nothing the elves can do will avail them against the Dark Lord.

I could go on for quite some time in that vein, but, suffice it to say, everything, from beginning to end in Tolkien's universe, is connected.  The marriage of Arwen and Aragorn is the final seal of three ages of history after the ring is destroyed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on December 16, 2014, 08:07:21 PM
 O:-)

Quote from: mirth on December 15, 2014, 10:10:29 PM



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 17, 2014, 12:49:28 AM
Man alive you are a nerd MD.   ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 17, 2014, 06:56:11 AM
Yuppers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 17, 2014, 07:13:06 AM
But then, Be'Le'he'ma'nor, the Dwarven Banana King, took the Shard of Shortness from the loins of that giant hydra thing in Chapter 3, but only because that nefarious assassin helped, which he was unaware of (of course, the assassin turns out to be Ge'Hary'Merde'Umlaut'Picard, but that's not revealed until Book 2). Because the Shard was ensconced in hydra blood, it made the Dwarven King mad (well, more 'cross') which started the entire Lande War over the continent of Aeisia. Which was of course (nerd snort) a totally silly thing to do, because nobody starts a land war there unless they're mad. But by Book 2 when Sha'La'Ma'La'Ma'Ding'Dong, the Elven courtesan-turned-prostitute-with-a-heart-of-electrum, joined forces with the assassin to uncover the nefarious Sewer Orc scandal (which we all know was covered in a three-part sub-series written by the same author under a pseudonym, which he denies to this day, but we REALLY know what's up there (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jeepkings.ca%2Fforums%2Fimages%2Fsmilies%2FNerdSmiley.gif&hash=9701bee2fabd31840ea5117850e2a203c9081ba8) because my friend Norbert, you know, my friend Norbert, he was at the RolePlayCon last year and he totally saw the author there and cornered him in a bathroom and insisted on the truth before he let him leave). Given the crossroads formed by Book 17, when the plot to the whole series really took off, the invasion of the Micropensi Lords from The Nether Regions gave the entire Elven lands of Wha'TT'a'Hug'Rack (which broke off from the main continent of Bort thanks to that cataclysmic wizard cabal in Book 13). If it weren't for that slimey human Tick doing that half-orcish porn thing with the perverted Wizards of the Gspot, he never would have caught the assassin in the act in the background when they were doing that one Orc orgy scene in the common room of that inn, you know, the one where the human Ranger Fella Tio lost his three-handed Sword of Noggin Splitting (+6 I think, but Norbert swears it's only a +5...man alive do we have some late night arguments over THAT when playing Cards Against Humanity and we've had too many Mountain Dews to drink!).

Sigh...good times, good times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 17, 2014, 07:17:28 AM
So how many nights w/out sleep is this now?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 17, 2014, 09:20:04 AM
Hey, wait, I don't get a nerdcall, too!?  :crazy2:

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 17, 2014, 02:37:07 PM
Just for you, Jason (especially since it takes one to know one 8) ): 




Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on December 17, 2014, 05:43:24 PM
I agree..my favourite series after LOTR.



Quote from: mirth on December 15, 2014, 12:01:33 PM
Quote from: vyshka on December 14, 2014, 06:45:53 PM
Magician, Silverthorn, and Darkness and Sethanon by Feist

Great series. One of my favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 19, 2014, 08:33:13 PM
Just finished Hell to Pay: Operation Downfall and the Invasion of Japan, 1945-1947. Its an academic examination of the Allied plans for the invasion and the Japanese plans for the defense, and of the thinking behind the dropping of the atomic bombs. Lots of numbers, especially up front when the author is discussing draft numbers and replacement streams to the Pacific, but I really enjoyed the thorough treatment that the logistics of the invasion gets. It would truly have been a horrific affair.

My grandfather's division was slated to go in to Kyushu in the initial wave and he's always told me how amazed he is today that we were willing to sacrifice whole divisions on secondary objectives.

http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Pay-Operation-DOWNFALL-1945-1947-ebook/dp/B0052LJC1K/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1419038876&sr=1-1&keywords=hell+to+pay (http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Pay-Operation-DOWNFALL-1945-1947-ebook/dp/B0052LJC1K/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1419038876&sr=1-1&keywords=hell+to+pay)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 20, 2014, 10:31:12 AM
Sounds like a good read...I may pick that up if the price is right.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 20, 2014, 12:17:21 PM
Finished Strands of Sorrow - the conclusion of the 4 book Zombie Apocalypse series by John Ringo.

Also finished  Russian Sideshow: America's Undeclared War, 1918 - 1920 about the US intervention in the Russian Civil War.  This intervention was so screwed up it reads like the French in the Franco-Prussian War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 20, 2014, 01:00:06 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on December 19, 2014, 08:33:13 PM
Just finished Hell to Pay: Operation Downfall and the Invasion of Japan, 1945-1947. Its an academic examination of the Allied plans for the invasion and the Japanese plans for the defense, and of the thinking behind the dropping of the atomic bombs. Lots of numbers, especially up front when the author is discussing draft numbers and replacement streams to the Pacific, but I really enjoyed the thorough treatment that the logistics of the invasion gets. It would truly have been a horrific affair.

My grandfather's division was slated to go in to Kyushu in the initial wave and he's always told me how amazed he is today that we were willing to sacrifice whole divisions on secondary objectives.

http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Pay-Operation-DOWNFALL-1945-1947-ebook/dp/B0052LJC1K/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1419038876&sr=1-1&keywords=hell+to+pay (http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Pay-Operation-DOWNFALL-1945-1947-ebook/dp/B0052LJC1K/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1419038876&sr=1-1&keywords=hell+to+pay)

I want to check that out. My tendency would be to make a big excel model of the logistics.

Since it is far from the field that pays my bills, I will probably never get to it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 20, 2014, 09:48:09 PM
Just started A Mad Catastrophe: The Outbreak of World War I and the Collapse of the Habsburg Empire by Geoffrey Wawro.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Kushan on December 24, 2014, 11:23:09 AM
I'm halfway through the last Game of Thrones book. After that I don't know. Given my current love affair with EUIV I'm looking for something about that period; 100 years war, War of the Roses, 30 Years War, Habsburgs Dynasty, Italian Wars, etc. Anyone have any recommendations?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 24, 2014, 04:54:40 PM
I am reading The Finish: The Killing of Osama bin Laden by Mark Bowden.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on December 24, 2014, 06:10:49 PM
Quote from: Kushan on December 24, 2014, 11:23:09 AM
I'm halfway through the last Game of Thrones book. After that I don't know. Given my current love affair with EUIV I'm looking for something about that period; 100 years war, War of the Roses, 30 Years War, Habsburgs Dynasty, Italian Wars, etc. Anyone have any recommendations?

Probably not what you're looking for, but you could give these a try.  Pretty quick reads.

http://www.unitedstatesofvinland.com/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on December 25, 2014, 04:12:38 AM
Just started Sacrifice - book 5 of the Red Gambit series by Colin Gee.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on December 29, 2014, 07:42:58 AM
I just finished Cain at Gettysburg by Ralph Peters. Just as good as The Killer Angels IMO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 29, 2014, 08:30:09 AM
Quote from: Shelldrake on December 29, 2014, 07:42:58 AM
I just finished Cain at Gettysburg by Ralph Peters. Just as good as The Killer Angels IMO.

I enjoyed that one. I really liked Meade finally getting a fair shake in a civil war book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Skwerl on December 30, 2014, 06:44:18 PM
Compendium: An Expedition Into the Rock 'n' Roll Underworld - Julian Cope
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 31, 2014, 11:42:50 AM
Neptune's Inferno: The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal

http://www.amazon.com/Neptunes-Inferno-U-S-Navy-Guadalcanal/dp/0553385127
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 31, 2014, 01:39:36 PM
^Ooh that's a good one.

For me, The Red Knight by Miles Cameron.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 31, 2014, 05:16:48 PM
Lot's of heavy reading going on around these parts.  I'm kicking it with Chess for Dummies.  All of the other chess books were checked out of the local public library.  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 31, 2014, 05:40:20 PM
Quote from: mirth on December 31, 2014, 11:42:50 AM
Neptune's Inferno: The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal

http://www.amazon.com/Neptunes-Inferno-U-S-Navy-Guadalcanal/dp/0553385127

Great book!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 31, 2014, 05:45:07 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on December 31, 2014, 05:40:20 PM
Quote from: mirth on December 31, 2014, 11:42:50 AM
Neptune's Inferno: The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal

http://www.amazon.com/Neptunes-Inferno-U-S-Navy-Guadalcanal/dp/0553385127

Great book!

It was a Christmas present to myself. I'm just getting into, but I can tell it's going to be an excellent read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on December 31, 2014, 06:08:00 PM
christmas amazon splurge -

War of the Roses Trinity - Part II

Valour - Book II of the Faithful and the Fallen

Eye of the World - Wheel of Time part 1

Arc Light

When Christ and his Saints slept

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 31, 2014, 08:52:04 PM
Whoa- lot's of good books here!

@ Gus:  Red Knight was very good.  I didn't quite finish it, but I plan to re-read it very soon.  What I read was excellent.

@ Mirth: Neptune's Inferno I did finish and it is very, very good.  You'll enjoy it.

@ UCG:  I didn't read the Christ and Saints book, but I did read on of Penman's other books about the Welsh wars.  I think it was book 3 of the series.  I read about half and then put it down because I want to read the whole series from the beginning.  What I read was excellent.  Here There Be Dragons it was called, I believe. 

@ Shelldrake: If you like Ralph Peters, I very highly recommend Red Army...one of the best war books I've ever read.

I have a few books going right now: The Plantagenets for non-fiction, and The Crown in the Heather for historical fiction.  I'm also wrapping up Quo Vadis on my Kindle...at the part where the Christians are being fed to the lions in the Colosseum.  Gruesome stuff!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 01, 2015, 03:27:54 PM
I'm going to pick up Neptune's Inferno at some point...it sounds too good not to.

Yeah Toonces Red Knight is good so far, even though I have read only a handful of pages...like mirth said I can tell this one will be very good just from the intro. At 600+ pages in tiny font, I am going to have to break it up as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 01, 2015, 05:01:44 PM
Speaking of the Pacific, Eagle Against the Sun: The American War With Japan (http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Against-Sun-American-Japan/dp/0394741013) should be here this Saturday. I've been on a WWII Pacific kick lately. I'm about to watch Tora! Tora! Tora! again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 01, 2015, 06:12:09 PM
^Love that movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 01, 2015, 07:43:50 PM
I didn't care for Eagle, but a really good WW2 book I read (twice) is The Rising Sun by Toland.  I got a hardcover copy pretty cheap several years ago.

The book is written from the Japanese perspective, and is simply awesome.  Heck, I'm looking at it right now.  Maybe I'll read it again.

I'd say Rising Sun, Shattered Sword, and the two First Team books by Lundstrom are my favorite WW2 books.

http://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1420159181&sr=1-1&keywords=the+rising+sun
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 01, 2015, 07:46:26 PM
Shattered Sword is brilliant. A must read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 01, 2015, 07:48:25 PM
Quote from: Toonces on January 01, 2015, 07:43:50 PM
I didn't care for Eagle, but a really good WW2 book I read (twice) is The Rising Sun by Toland.  I got a hardcover copy pretty cheap several years ago.

The book is written from the Japanese perspective, and is simply awesome.  Heck, I'm looking at it right now.  Maybe I'll read it again.

I'd say Rising Sun, Shattered Sword, and the two First Team books by Lundstrom are my favorite WW2 books.

http://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1420159181&sr=1-1&keywords=the+rising+sun

You just cost me another $8.79!  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 01, 2015, 08:59:31 PM
Quote from: mirth on January 01, 2015, 07:46:26 PM
Shattered Sword is brilliant. A must read.

Added to wishlist!  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 01, 2015, 09:00:58 PM
You all are making my reading list look pathetic right now. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 02, 2015, 04:18:10 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on December 25, 2014, 04:12:38 AM
Just started Sacrifice - book 5 of the Red Gambit series by Colin Gee.
I've just finished this. I have to say that, this is, without a doubt, the best Alt-History series I've ever read. The author really knows his stuff, the setting is plausible, the oobs and doctrines of the respective armies seem spot on, the dialogue is excellent and doesn't feel forced, and the characters feel like real people. Turtledove isn't even in the same league as this guy. He mixes intelligence intrigue, brutal in-your-face combat, and high strategy sessions with aplomb. He's also not afraid to kill off major characters so it makes the battle scenes that much more tense. Especially since a lot of deaths and wounds in the books are pretty horrific.

My only gripes are that the maps are not very clear on the kindle and, with such a vast array of characters, you sometimes forget who's who or done what (Not so much the famous historical ones, however).  The author recognises this by making the maps and graphics available on his web site, which is ok I suppose, and you can purchase companion biographies books that accompany each volume. I think they're only a couple bucks a piece. I haven't tried them yet but I might have to.

The author is a wargamer too so all the maps seem to be made with wargaming in mind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on January 02, 2015, 07:11:10 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on December 31, 2014, 06:08:00 PM
christmas amazon splurge -

War of the Roses Trinity - Part II

Valour - Book II of the Faithful and the Fallen

Eye of the World - Wheel of Time part 1

Arc Light

When Christ and his Saints slept

Arc Light is a really enjoyable WWIII read. Starts out nuclear and then goes conventional. If you like the author, I'd really recommend Protect and Defend too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 02, 2015, 10:01:27 AM
Quote from: bbmike on January 01, 2015, 05:01:44 PM
Speaking of the Pacific, Eagle Against the Sun: The American War With Japan (http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Against-Sun-American-Japan/dp/0394741013) should be here this Saturday. I've been on a WWII Pacific kick lately. I'm about to watch Tora! Tora! Tora! again.

somewhere in the depths of the internet is the Pacific mod for CC3.  ymmv
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 02, 2015, 12:39:44 PM
Currently burning my way through The Taliban Don't Wave -- that was a great recommendation upthread somewhere!

UCG, we all wait to jump up and down, or up and down on you, for your impressions of TEoTW.  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 02, 2015, 05:58:53 PM
The Road to Koniggratz: Helmuth Von Moltke and the Austro-Prussian War 1866

Just ordered this off amazon with the remains of a gift voucher.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 02, 2015, 06:11:16 PM
weren't you there?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 02, 2015, 06:15:15 PM
No, I must have missed that one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 02, 2015, 06:41:51 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 02, 2015, 12:39:44 PM
Currently burning my way through The Taliban Don't Wave -- that was a great recommendation upthread somewhere!

UCG, we all wait to jump up and down, or up and down on you, for your impressions of TEoTW.  >:D


Last chance before you actually pick it up and go past the point of no return, 'geek.  DON'T DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Save your sanity, man!  AND all the time you will never get back slogging through until you finally realize you've made a HUGE error!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 08:51:00 PM
I just started reading The Tomb by F. Paul Wilson for a change of pace.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 02, 2015, 08:59:53 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 08:51:00 PM
I just started reading The Tomb by F. Paul Wilson for a change of pace.

Was that the one with Hitler?  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 02, 2015, 09:41:24 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 08:51:00 PM
I just started reading The Tomb by F. Paul Wilson for a change of pace.

Now that's what I'm talking about Greybriar.  Something light and easy on the brain.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 11:06:24 PM
Quote from: bbmike on January 02, 2015, 08:59:53 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 08:51:00 PM
I just started reading The Tomb by F. Paul Wilson for a change of pace.

Was that the one with Hitler?  ::)

I don't think so. The setting so far is in New York City.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 03, 2015, 04:53:46 AM
"Hitler gets a Bagel and Lox"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on January 03, 2015, 09:27:46 AM
Just finished reading 'Ships of Mercy' by Christos Papoutsy.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2015, 04:17:09 PM
Damn you and your autobiographical sketches, Bawb. Just put "The Road to Koniggratz: Helmuth Von Moltke and the Austro-Prussian War 1866" into my Amazon cart.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on January 03, 2015, 05:32:13 PM
I'm slogging away though a pretty poor novel I bought on a Kindle sale a few weeks back.  It's called The Rendition by Albert Ashforth and it kinda sucks.

Once I finish that, I have a few others that I bought recently and I'm not sure which I'll read next.

I bought the first two novels in a historical fiction series by Phillip McCutchan.  They're called Drums Along the Khyber and Soldier of the Raj and concern a British officer in colonial service near the end of the 19th century.  The Victorian era of history is the one I find most fascinating so I'm a sucker for anything about the period.

I also bought two non-fiction books.  One recounts the experiences of a soldier in the Rhodesian Light Infantry during the civil war in Rhodesia/ZImbabwe in the 70s.  It's called Fireforce.   

The other is called Forgotten Victory: First Canadian Army and the Cruel Winter of 1944-45.  It's about the Canadian push into the Rhineland during Operation Veritable.  I don't know much about the specifics of the operation other than that it was a pretty miserable experience and more akin to WWI battles in the mud and trenches than the usual WWII experience. 

Any picks on which to read first?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2015, 06:01:34 PM
^Philip McCutchen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 04, 2015, 01:57:43 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 03, 2015, 04:17:09 PM
Damn you and your autobiographical sketches, Bawb. Just put "The Road to Koniggratz: Helmuth Von Moltke and the Austro-Prussian War 1866" into my Amazon cart.

Good man, Gus  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 04, 2015, 02:18:23 PM
I am hoping you get a cut of the cost.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 04, 2015, 02:34:01 PM
I was just at b&n and couldn't find a damn thing to buy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on January 04, 2015, 04:45:46 PM
Yeah, I don't think they sell porn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 05, 2015, 12:18:04 AM
I've just begun my annual re-reading of Steven Pressfield's Tides of War.  Contemplating my Athenian campaign in Rome II: Wrath of Sparta put me in the mood. 




Quote from: GDS_Starfury on January 04, 2015, 02:34:01 PM
I was just at b&n and couldn't find a damn thing to buy.
I was just there today.  Using the gift cards I got for Christmas, I ordered the remaining novels in the Star Wars: X-Wing series (to be shipped directly to my house); they should arrive by the time I've finished Tides of War.  Good times.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 05, 2015, 10:48:20 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 11:06:24 PM
Quote from: bbmike on January 02, 2015, 08:59:53 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 08:51:00 PM
I just started reading The Tomb by F. Paul Wilson for a change of pace.

Was that the one with Hitler?  ::)

I don't think so. The setting so far is in New York City.

If I remember correctly this is the first appearance of Wilson's Repairman Jack. Many more books in the series if you like The Tomb.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on January 05, 2015, 01:17:37 PM
One old book I still keep on the shelf (and keep reading) is the following:

http://www.amazon.ca/Classics-Air-0010-Len-Cacutt/dp/0791700100 (http://www.amazon.ca/Classics-Air-0010-Len-Cacutt/dp/0791700100)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F41PlacW3jbL._SL500_AA300_.jpg&hash=ce48731c6e5db71e4a83d3501d5ef425d6e9ab8f)


I got that back in 1989 as a gift. I've been looking for something similar that covers the period afterwards (1935 - 1945). I figure I'd ask for recommendations - any ideas?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 05, 2015, 03:20:20 PM
Quote from: bbmike on January 02, 2015, 08:59:53 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 02, 2015, 08:51:00 PM
I just started reading The Tomb by F. Paul Wilson for a change of pace.

Was that the one with Hitler?  ::)

Is the one you're thinking of titled "the Keep"?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 03:32:56 PM
I just read The Keep a few months back and Hitler is not in it, directly.

Endfire if you find anything good on that 1935 - 1945 era please post. I am really interested in the 1920s-30s interwar years but there is surprisingly little.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 05, 2015, 05:07:34 PM
I finished The Keep and started reading Leaves of Grass: The First (1855) Edition by Walt Whitman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 05, 2015, 05:22:24 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 03:32:56 PM
I just read The Keep a few months back and Hitler is not in it, directly.

Endfire if you find anything good on that 1935 - 1945 era please post. I am really interested in the 1920s-30s interwar years but there is surprisingly little.

not so much interwar, but ive just finished Dominion, the Brits sought peace after Dunkirk, the US never got involved, UK is a nazi state and Germany and Russia are killing each other, book is set in 1952 Hitler is 70 odd and Churchill is 80 odd - and a crazy old man discovers a secret and they have to sneak him out of the UK whilst the SS and Gestapo look for him
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 05, 2015, 07:01:37 PM
Oh, and Gus, you will like these as well;

The Seven Weeks' War: the Austro-Prussian Conflict of 1866 by H.M Hozier.

The Franco German War of 1870-1871 by Von Molkte.

Both excellent reads :-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 07:23:36 PM
Thanks Bawb, I'll send you the receipt. UCG that book above sounds a bit like Fatherland and a bit like The Afrika Reich...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on January 05, 2015, 08:24:34 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 03:32:56 PM

Endfire if you find anything good on that 1935 - 1945 era please post. I am really interested in the 1920s-30s interwar years but there is surprisingly little.

I'd recommend that book from Amazon.com used, and fairly cheap:
http://www.amazon.com/Classics-Air-Illustrated-Development-1913-1935/dp/0791700100/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1420505073&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/Classics-Air-Illustrated-Development-1913-1935/dp/0791700100/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1420505073&sr=1-1)

Each plane has a detailed schematic and article.  Here's a few scans from my book (TOC & Hawker Fury & Nimrod from early 30's)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on January 05, 2015, 08:25:21 PM
sorry I messed up the photo jobs above!  I was in a rush
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 05, 2015, 08:50:00 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 07:23:36 PM
Thanks Bawb, I'll send you the receipt. UCG that book above sounds a bit like Fatherland and a bit like The Afrika Reich...

Also sounds a little bit like SS:GB by Len Deighton.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 10:11:25 PM
^Damn you as well.

That is a neat looking set of book innards, Endfire.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on January 07, 2015, 12:27:37 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 10:11:25 PM
^Damn you as well.

That is a neat looking set of book innards, Endfire.

If you think it is bad here, never visit Doug Dery's blog on consimworld :) (http://talk.consimworld.com/WebX/?14@@.1dce84a4/0). He has the most amazing book collection, and tends to make grown men cry to the point that the blog has been named 'God Damn Doug Dery Man' which is the title of a poem written by a community member.

I've started the year off by continuing to work on Asimov's Foundation books. I just completed Foundation's Edge and started Foundation and Earth, which marks the 1st time I have
tackled these 2 books. I read Forward the Foundation and Prelude to Foundation years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 07, 2015, 09:30:27 AM
I read the first Foundation long ago, never read any of the others. And i will not click the above link!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 07, 2015, 12:39:13 PM
I just started reading The Confederate War by Gary W. Gallagher. It is thought-provoking.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on January 07, 2015, 03:40:54 PM
Quote from: vyshka on January 07, 2015, 12:27:37 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 10:11:25 PM
^Damn you as well.

That is a neat looking set of book innards, Endfire.

If you think it is bad here, never visit Doug Dery's blog on consimworld :) (http://talk.consimworld.com/WebX/?14@@.1dce84a4/0). He has the most amazing book collection, and tends to make grown men cry to the point that the blog has been named 'God Damn Doug Dery Man' which is the title of a poem written by a community member.

Nice poem!  I must profess, my bookshelf is nothing to make poems about.  Maybe by the time I'm 65.  I did scribble a song a while back about Starfury & Windy's epic conversations though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 07, 2015, 04:33:37 PM
Just download 'The Dwarves'  by Markus Heitz onto my Kindle. There are 4 books in the series, and the reviews seem quite positive, so I thought I give 'em a try.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 07, 2015, 09:28:49 PM
Does it portray me correctly?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on January 07, 2015, 10:51:29 PM
Gus beat me to it.  >:(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on January 07, 2015, 11:12:49 PM
Started Strategy: A History
It has impressive reviews.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 08, 2015, 06:31:14 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 07, 2015, 09:28:49 PM
Does it portray me correctly?

I'll get back to you on that. I aint come to any of the intimate details yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 08, 2015, 08:15:33 AM
There are none. So it sounds very accurate so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on January 08, 2015, 09:04:13 AM
<<coffee down face>>   :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 08, 2015, 09:25:52 AM
You're welcome! :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 08, 2015, 09:59:46 AM
Not read much so far, but it seems they like to dual-wield axes.

...and have long plaited beards.

.......and are short-arsed vertically challenged.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 08, 2015, 07:12:52 PM
Well one of three aint bad...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 09, 2015, 07:44:24 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 08, 2015, 07:12:52 PM
Well one of three aint bad...

Meatloaf-ish lyrics won't deflect the belittling, Gus. Although I'm stumped as how to continue, so I'm sure this will make sense shortly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 09, 2015, 07:50:46 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on January 09, 2015, 07:44:24 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 08, 2015, 07:12:52 PM
Well one of three aint bad...

Meatloaf-ish lyrics won't deflect the belittling, Gus. Although I'm stumped as how to continue, so I'm sure this will make sense shortly.

I saw what you did there - slipped a tiny pun in, didn't you. MD will have you on his radar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 09, 2015, 08:07:03 AM
Quote from: bob48 on January 09, 2015, 07:50:46 AM
I saw what you did there - slipped a tiny pun in, didn't you. MD will have you on his radar.

Err...well, there's three of them, sir.

QuoteMeatloaf-ish lyrics won't deflect the belittling, Gus. Although I'm stumped as how to continue, so I'm sure this will make sense shortly.

C'mon mate, work with me here! :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 09, 2015, 09:30:26 AM
Meh!

I didn't want you to get too much credit.

...actually, the other two went right over my head.............
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 09, 2015, 09:58:16 AM
Ba-dum-tisshhhh!  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 09, 2015, 01:12:20 PM
While waiting for my Star Wars: X-wing books to arrive, I'm re-reading The King Raven trilogy by Stephen R. Lawhead.  Am currently in the middle of the first book Hood (the other two being Scarlet and Tuck). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 12, 2015, 08:19:08 AM
I am just finishing the last book in Evan Currie's Odyssey series. Amazon reviews are mixed but I found this to be a polished and very enjoyable military science fiction series.

http://www.amazon.com/Out-Black-Odyssey-One-Book-ebook/dp/B00F0SI3EM/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid= (http://www.amazon.com/Out-Black-Odyssey-One-Book-ebook/dp/B00F0SI3EM/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 17, 2015, 02:44:51 PM
Reading some graphic novels this weekend. Just finished G.I. Joe - Hearts and Minds by Max Brooks (World War Z) and The Punisher by Greg Rucka. Later will do some New 52 - Batman - The City of Owls and Batman - Court of Owls by Scott Snyder.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 18, 2015, 07:33:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 17, 2015, 02:44:51 PM
Reading some graphic novels this weekend. Just finished G.I. Joe - Hearts and Minds by Max Brooks (World War Z) and The Punisher by Greg Rucka. Later will do some New 52 - Batman - The City of Owls and Batman - Court of Owls by Scott Snyder.

If you are looking for more New-52 Batman graphic novels I strongly recommend those culled from Batman: The Dark Knight.

http://www.amazon.ca/Batman-Dark-Knight-Vol-Terrors/dp/1401235433 (http://www.amazon.ca/Batman-Dark-Knight-Vol-Terrors/dp/1401235433)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 18, 2015, 08:09:13 PM
^Thanks Shell. I'm becoming addicted. Just finished the Court of Owls and now have a hardback of The City of Owls that I will read later tonight...great story line.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 19, 2015, 10:51:10 AM
Love the new Batman stuff. Moving on to City of Thieves, a novel about two Russian boys during the Siege of Leningrad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 19, 2015, 10:13:27 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 17, 2015, 02:44:51 PM
Reading some graphic novels this weekend. Just finished G.I. Joe - Hearts and Minds by Max Brooks (World War Z) and The Punisher by Greg Rucka. Later will do some New 52 - Batman - The City of Owls and Batman - Court of Owls by Scott Snyder.

Did you finish the New 52 Aquaman?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on January 19, 2015, 10:13:49 PM
Read the Watchmen while your in a graphic novel kick.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 19, 2015, 10:19:45 PM
Quote from: Bison on January 19, 2015, 10:13:49 PM
Read the Watchmen while your in a graphic novel kick.

Rorschach lives inside each one of us. Some deeper, some closer to the surface.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 20, 2015, 08:41:52 AM
Rorschach =  :smitten:

He's been my avatar at BGG since 2002.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2015, 08:45:39 AM
Read The Watchmen a while ago. City of Thieves is great and hilariously funny in many spots.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 20, 2015, 10:22:04 AM
Quote from: Bison on January 19, 2015, 10:13:49 PM
Read the Watchmen while your in a graphic novel kick.

+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 20, 2015, 10:24:07 AM
The Watchmen is an excellent graphic novel. For my degree I had to take a Comic Literature course...that book was one of our required reading items. I hadn't read it before so I was glad I took the class.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 20, 2015, 06:54:38 PM
Not as, cool, but close, I took a Mythology class AND a Sci-Fi class in high school.  The teacher was a hippy wannabe.  We didn't learn much.  Invariably, someone would ask him about music or drugs and we'd spend the entire period talking about that instead.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 20, 2015, 07:02:41 PM
11th grade ap english we spent each semester on a film.
Excalibur
Blade Runner
The Empire Strikes Back
The Great Gatsby
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 20, 2015, 08:05:15 PM
Now I know who to blame for that Blade Runner obsession you have ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 21, 2015, 11:26:43 AM
Ha...in my 12th grade English class we saw Platoon and Ferris Bueller's Day Off.  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 21, 2015, 09:51:09 PM
Two of my favorites of all time!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 22, 2015, 08:46:57 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on January 20, 2015, 07:02:41 PM
11th grade ap english we spent each semester on a film.
Excalibur
Blade Runner
The Empire Strikes Back
The Great Gatsby

So that's four semesters...did you repeat 11th grade?  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on January 22, 2015, 10:24:28 PM
Just blitzed through the first four Sven Hassel books which I bought as the set was cheap on Amazon. Couldn't put them down! Just a great WW2 yarn. Must order all the others for more Porta, Tiny the Old Man and the rest!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 23, 2015, 01:28:37 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on January 22, 2015, 08:46:57 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on January 20, 2015, 07:02:41 PM
11th grade ap english we spent each semester on a film.
Excalibur
Blade Runner
The Empire Strikes Back
The Great Gatsby

So that's four semesters...did you repeat 11th grade?  ;)

period?  term?  fuck if I know.  we called each 9 to 12  week batch a semester.



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 23, 2015, 01:30:25 AM
tell ya what though.  if we hadn't watched those movies my grammuor might be better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 23, 2015, 07:38:30 AM
Star if you have not read City of Thieves do so immediately. Same for JH. It's jewy and hilarious and takes place during the Siege of Leningrad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on January 24, 2015, 07:38:47 AM
Winter by L Deighton is a great novel, so is Bomber.


Quote from: Staggerwing on January 05, 2015, 08:50:00 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 05, 2015, 07:23:36 PM
Thanks Bawb, I'll send you the receipt. UCG that book above sounds a bit like Fatherland and a bit like The Afrika Reich...

Also sounds a little bit like SS:GB by Len Deighton.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 27, 2015, 03:50:05 PM
Having finished off the King Raven trilogy -- which was (happily) even better than I remembered -- I've finally begun diving back into the X-Wing series (my own copies this time!), starting of course with Rogue Squadron.  Have quickly started remembering how much I enjoyed the books the first (and until now, only) time I read them. 

The series is definitely a must-read for anyone who enjoys/is interested in the expanded universe.  IMHO, Stackpole & Alston's collaborative work was nearly as important in establishing the Star Wars EU as Timothy Zahn's was. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 27, 2015, 07:52:18 PM
While waiting for my book on WWII German armor to arrive, I will be reading "Target America: Hitler's Plan to Attack the United States" by James Duffy and "Hitler's Jet Plane: The Me 262 Story" by Mano Ziegler.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 27, 2015, 09:22:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 27, 2015, 07:52:18 PM
While waiting for my book on WWII German armor to arrive, I will be reading "Target America: Hitler's Plan to Attack the United States" by James Duffy and "Hitler's Jet Plane: The Me 262 Story" by Mano Ziegler.

The story of the development of Me262 will sound a bit like that of the F-35.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 28, 2015, 02:32:42 AM
Quote from: Martok on January 27, 2015, 03:50:05 PM
Having finished off the King Raven trilogy -- which was (happily) even better than I remembered -- I've finally begun diving back into the X-Wing series (my own copies this time!), starting of course with Rogue Squadron.  Have quickly started remembering how much I enjoyed the books the first (and until now, only) time I read them. 

The series is definitely a must-read for anyone who enjoys/is interested in the expanded universe.  IMHO, Stackpole & Alston's collaborative work was nearly as important in establishing the Star Wars EU as Timothy Zahn's was.

Amazon link?  Heavy on star fighter pew pew?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 28, 2015, 03:49:46 PM
I for one want to know UGeek's impressions of The Eye of the World if he's gotten to it yet.  O:-)

Something the other day reminded me that, for all of its several faults, it's such a great example of taking the "Chosen One" trope and running it both completely straight and in an inversion simultaneously: Rejoice! You've been chosen to gain great power to save the world! Also, you'll go so insane in the process you could screw the whole thing up at any moment, actually worse than ever before, and naturally most people in the world will want to murder/exploit you because of that. No, the insanity isn't an option. No, being chosen to save the world isn't an option. Good luck, dawg. PS, oh and you're going to die. Try not to do that before you figure out how to give the world a fighting chance at surviving for another few thousand years.

I would dearly love to adapt it into a TV series with a planned number of seasons. Oh well. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 04, 2015, 11:50:45 AM
Am now a fair ways into Wedge's Gamble, the second book in the X-Wing series.  Am enjoying it thoroughly, but seeing the cover stirred up a serious case of nerd rage, as it has that horrible "Legends" label on it.  :tickedoff: 




Quote from: Toonces on January 28, 2015, 02:32:42 AM
Quote from: Martok on January 27, 2015, 03:50:05 PM
Having finished off the King Raven trilogy -- which was (happily) even better than I remembered -- I've finally begun diving back into the X-Wing series (my own copies this time!), starting of course with Rogue Squadron.  Have quickly started remembering how much I enjoyed the books the first (and until now, only) time I read them. 

The series is definitely a must-read for anyone who enjoys/is interested in the expanded universe.  IMHO, Stackpole & Alston's collaborative work was nearly as important in establishing the Star Wars EU as Timothy Zahn's was.

Amazon link?  Heavy on star fighter pew pew?
Not Amazon (they only cover the individual books), but the Star Wars wiki gives a good, yet still succinct, description (http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/X-Wing_%28novels%29).  "Star Wars meets Top Gun" describes it pretty well, I'd say. 

Given that the series is something of an "inter-quel" (helps fill in the gaps and tie in other books/series in the SW expanded universe), it helps if you've read some of the other EU novels, particularly the Thrawn trilogy by Zahn.  (If you're even a moderate Star Wars fan, the Thrawn trilogy is practically a must-read anyway. O0 )  It's not necessary, however; the X-Wing books are very enjoyable on their own. 


And yes, the books have plenty of "pew pew" in them.  ;)  Some more so than others, of course, but none of them are lacking in the combat scenes department. 




Quote from: JasonPratt on January 28, 2015, 03:49:46 PM
I for one want to know UGeek's impressions of The Eye of the World if he's gotten to it yet.  O:-)

Something the other day reminded me that, for all of its several faults, it's such a great example of taking the "Chosen One" trope and running it both completely straight and in an inversion simultaneously: Rejoice! You've been chosen to gain great power to save the world! Also, you'll go so insane in the process you could screw the whole thing up at any moment, actually worse than ever before, and naturally most people in the world will want to murder/exploit you because of that. No, the insanity isn't an option. No, being chosen to save the world isn't an option. Good luck, dawg. PS, oh and you're going to die. Try not to do that before you figure out how to give the world a fighting chance at surviving for another few thousand years.

I would dearly love to adapt it into a TV series with a planned number of seasons. Oh well. :)
Heh, well said Jason.  All of it.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 04, 2015, 02:00:00 PM
Just started Wehrmacht Panzer Divisions: 1939-1945 by Jorge Rosado, an Essential Histories book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 05, 2015, 02:23:25 AM
I'm currently finishing up God Wills It! A Tale of the First Crusade (Kindle free), and just started Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett in paper book form. 

I'm also working on The Thirty Years War: Europe's Tragedy (again) and The Plantagenets.  I really need to learn to focus on one book at a time...    ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 05, 2015, 06:34:50 AM
I tried 'Pillars of the Earth' a long time ago but couldn't get into it and put it away. I was looking forward to seeing Medieval construction novelized since I've long had an interest in the subject but the story was just not captivating enough to get me to the payoff. Should I give it another go 20 years later?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 05, 2015, 06:40:31 AM
I enjoyed 'Pillars of the Earth.'  Not my usual fare, but, it's well told. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on February 05, 2015, 07:47:01 AM
JUst got in the post..

The Larks: Wars are fought by ordinary people by Shaw, Jem

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1484060830?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1484060830?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00)

Imperial Germany's Iron Regiment of the First World War: War Memories of Service With Infantry Regiment 169 - 1914/1918 by Rieth, John K.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0692301208?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0692301208?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00)

Death of the Leaping Horseman: The 24th Panzer Division in Stalingrad by Jason D. Mark (Completes by Jason Mark collection, just love his books)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0811714047?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0811714047?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00)

In the Shade of a Willow: A Novel of the Great War by Todhunter, Chris

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0957424426?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0957424426?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00)

FOUR YEARS ON THE WESTERN FRONT by Rifleman, A. (Had this before, but my ex destroyed it. One of the great WW1 memoirs)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/184342035X?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/184342035X?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00)

The German Army in the Spring Offensives 1917: Arras, Aisne and Champagne by Jack Sheldon (pre ordered as this series is just superb. So every time a new one comes out I'm on it. Really great chap aswell)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1783463457/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2VYVCXQRXDQX1&coliid=I3VVXS17MBMW8 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1783463457/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2VYVCXQRXDQX1&coliid=I3VVXS17MBMW8)

Plus a few more Sven Hassel books as I just love the escapism of them.

Should keep me going for awhile. Though I need  another bookcase!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on February 05, 2015, 07:53:40 AM
Those who enjoy graphic novels I recommend.

It Was the War of the Trenches by Jacques Tardi and Goddamn This War! by Jacques Tardi. Both set during WW1.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Was-War-Trenches-Jacques-Tardi/dp/1606993534/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Was-War-Trenches-Jacques-Tardi/dp/1606993534/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Goddamn-This-War-Jacques-Tardi/dp/1606995820/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Goddamn-This-War-Jacques-Tardi/dp/1606995820/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y)

He has also done two others set in later conflicts.

Just noticed you can get them together in a special 100th anniversary set. The first one is classed as a master piece and won awards at the time of release.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tardis-WW1-Year-Trenches-Goddamn-x/dp/1606997696/ref=pd_cp_b_1 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tardis-WW1-Year-Trenches-Goddamn-x/dp/1606997696/ref=pd_cp_b_1)

Also this a a beautiful book that I can't recommend enough!

The Great War by Joe Sacco. Superb artwork in an amazing fold out panorama of the Somme!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Great-War-Joe-Sacco/dp/0224097717/ref=pd_sim_b_15?ie=UTF8&refRID=1EVDHZXX38DME5QFR4E7 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Great-War-Joe-Sacco/dp/0224097717/ref=pd_sim_b_15?ie=UTF8&refRID=1EVDHZXX38DME5QFR4E7)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on February 08, 2015, 01:43:56 AM
Area 51 by Bob Mayer. Not bad at 43% through.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 10, 2015, 09:25:12 AM
About to start The End, by Ian Kershaw, about the fall of Germany, 1944-1945.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on February 10, 2015, 05:39:19 PM
Reading Patrick O'Brian's "Master and Commander".  Might try to read the whole series.

Wouldn't mind trying Cornwell's Sharpe series as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 11, 2015, 08:51:31 AM
Quote from: WallysWorld on February 10, 2015, 05:39:19 PM
Reading Patrick O'Brian's "Master and Commander".  Might try to read the whole series.

Wouldn't mind trying Cornwell's Sharpe series as well.

The O'Brian books are superb. I have all 20 books and have read them multiple times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 11, 2015, 09:13:21 AM
Quote from: WallysWorld on February 10, 2015, 05:39:19 PM
Reading Patrick O'Brian's "Master and Commander".  Might try to read the whole series.

Wouldn't mind trying Cornwell's Sharpe series as well.

Enjoy the journey. Reading those books is like catching up with old friends for me.

No joke, when I see some interesting bird flying around sometimes I think "hey, I wish Maturin was here, he'd love that," before remembering that he's not real.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on February 12, 2015, 10:44:13 AM
Just past the part in the book where a midshipman is explaining the ship's rigging to the newly arrived Maturin. The detail that O'Brian went into was incredible.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 12, 2015, 10:59:14 AM
Panzer Leader by Guderian is only five bucks on Amazon, for a Kindle download. Anyone read this yet? I don't think I have. 800+ pages for that price is awesome, so I'm just curious if you guys have checked it out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on February 12, 2015, 12:58:21 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 12, 2015, 10:59:14 AM
Panzer Leader by Guderian is only five bucks on Amazon, for a Kindle download. Anyone read this yet? I don't think I have. 800+ pages for that price is awesome, so I'm just curious if you guys have checked it out.

A classic description of WW2 armored warfare and blitzkrieg. I have read the paperback version a couple of times. Well worth your time IMO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 12, 2015, 03:52:07 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 12, 2015, 10:59:14 AM
Panzer Leader by Guderian is only five bucks on Amazon, for a Kindle download. Anyone read this yet? I don't think I have. 800+ pages for that price is awesome, so I'm just curious if you guys have checked it out.

Yes, its well worth it. I've read my copy at least 3 times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 13, 2015, 11:18:11 AM
^Were you reading it as a 'Know Your Enemy' tome while serving with Monty?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 13, 2015, 12:52:41 PM
Yeah, Monty said to me, 'You stay here and watch that bloke with the tank, me and the lads are off to the beach for while'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 13, 2015, 01:09:41 PM
Quote from: bob48 on February 13, 2015, 12:52:41 PM
Yeah, Monty said to me, 'You stay here and watch that bloke with the tank, me and the lads are off to the beach for while'.

Makes sense. What a poser that guy was.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 13, 2015, 01:23:56 PM
Aye, not like Patton at all. ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on February 13, 2015, 04:06:16 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on February 12, 2015, 12:58:21 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 12, 2015, 10:59:14 AM
Panzer Leader by Guderian is only five bucks on Amazon, for a Kindle download. Anyone read this yet? I don't think I have. 800+ pages for that price is awesome, so I'm just curious if you guys have checked it out.

A classic description of WW2 armored warfare and blitzkrieg. I have read the paperback version a couple of times. Well worth your time IMO.

Is this the pickle partners publishing edition? I'm curious how the quality is of their kindle books. They have Oman's Peninsula War series as well, and I'm tempted but not sure if they are crap transfers or not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 13, 2015, 04:24:19 PM
Yep, it's Pickle Partners Publishing.

http://www.amazon.com/Panzer-Leader-Illustrated-Generaloberst-Guderian-ebook/dp/B00JKX6DOU/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1423862587&sr=1-1&keywords=panzer+leader+kindle

I haven't read any issues in the reviews. Check them out for the Peninsula War book and see if anyone's complained about that.

Edit: I went ahead and just now bought it. Format looks fine to me so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 14, 2015, 11:14:35 PM
Put aside my WWII Eastern Front reading for now and started The Makers of Scotland: Picts, Romans, Gaels and Vikings by Tim Clarkson. Read 50+ pages today, excellent so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on February 15, 2015, 04:10:33 PM
Now, Gus, don't be too hard.  Monty's heart was in the right place (left side of the chest.)
And he did try so hard to put a certain jeune s'a quais to Eighth Army. 
During the Sicily fighting, the heat was tremendous and the troops were suffering.  Stuck in a traffic jam, he noticed that the truck drivers were all down to their scivvy shorts, except for one sartorial genius.  He was wearing a top hat - and nothing else.
With great aplomb he tipped his hat and drove on.
Monty just about split a gut laughing over that and recognizing that there could be issues when London heard of this put out a directive.  The desk bound bureacrats could be sticklers for propriety.
No member of Eight Army should wear top hats in the future.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 15, 2015, 05:22:29 PM
^Hey it was Bawb who began the Monty bashing, not me!

But, like my Grandfather, Bawb was there in Sicily and could probably shed some more light on the nudity. My Grandfather never mentioned nude Brits in top hats.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 15, 2015, 06:10:38 PM
^You should get out more..........
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on February 15, 2015, 07:33:51 PM
Well done.  Very cunning, Baldrick!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on February 17, 2015, 06:38:27 PM
http://www.amazon.ca/Barbarossa-Russian-Conflict-Alan-Clark-ebook/dp/B00GU3FOCK/ref=sr_1_1_twi_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1424215542&sr=8-1&keywords=Alan+Clark%2C+Barbarossa (http://www.amazon.ca/Barbarossa-Russian-Conflict-Alan-Clark-ebook/dp/B00GU3FOCK/ref=sr_1_1_twi_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1424215542&sr=8-1&keywords=Alan+Clark%2C+Barbarossa)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on February 17, 2015, 08:15:23 PM
The Weimar Republic: Through the Lens of the Press



http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/685859.The_Weimar_Republic (http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/685859.The_Weimar_Republic)

http://www.amazon.ca/The-Weimar-Republic-Through-Press/dp/3829026978 (http://www.amazon.ca/The-Weimar-Republic-Through-Press/dp/3829026978)

The Weimar Republic in Germany, its first parliamentary democracy, was an epoch of political turbulence, economic instability and cultural excitement. From today's viewpoint, the era can be seen as both a role model and a warning from history. This volume investigates the period in word and also in picture, including photographic perspectives and prominent views and opinions from 1919 to 1932. Eminent Swedish historian Torsten Palmér taps the opinions of important personalities from the spheres of the arts as well as economies and politics and provides many factual, enlightening commentaries to guide the reader through the photojournalism and writings of a fascinating era
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on February 17, 2015, 09:03:08 PM
Perfect companions.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 17, 2015, 09:54:37 PM
Monty was a cunty poof!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 18, 2015, 07:22:16 AM
More like a poofy cunt, but both are pretty accurate in describing that teabag-licking twatwaffle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 19, 2015, 08:55:54 AM
Am now halfway through The Bacta War, the fourth book in the Star Wars: X-Wing series. 


I'm impressed all over again with Stackpole's writing abilities:  He's not only crafted some strong characters and an interconnected series of good stories of his own, but has also done a decent job using his books to connect them to other novels/series in the Star Wars expanded universe, including borrowing characters from them. 

In addition, I now appreciate how he hasn't relied too heavily on the main characters from the movies, especially the Big Three (Luke, Han, & Leia).  Not that they don't still show up in these books, but they're very obviously used in support/background roles only.  The focus is clearly on Wedge and the pilots of Rogue Squadron, plus a few others that wander in and out of the stories as needed. 


The more of these books I read, the more I think Stackpole might be Zahn's equal, at least when it comes to Star Wars novels. 




Quote from: bob48 on February 11, 2015, 08:51:31 AM
Quote from: WallysWorld on February 10, 2015, 05:39:19 PM
Reading Patrick O'Brian's "Master and Commander".  Might try to read the whole series.

Wouldn't mind trying Cornwell's Sharpe series as well.

The O'Brian books are superb. I have all 20 books and have read them multiple times.
How likely am I to become lost trying to read them?  I thoroughly enjoyed the Hornblower series, and the O'Brian books have long been recommended to me, but I've heard the technical details can be intimidating/overwhelming. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on February 19, 2015, 09:20:31 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 18, 2015, 07:22:16 AM
More like a poofy cunt, but both are pretty accurate in describing that teabag-licking twatwaffle.

I think you give poofs a bad name by associating them with Monty   ;)

Let's settle that he was an irritable self-centered guy, I think even he admitted to that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 19, 2015, 10:42:02 AM
Any good bios on Monty?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 19, 2015, 11:20:31 AM
Yes. I would recommend 'Colossal Cracks' by Stephen Ashley Hart. Also, both 'Bitter Victory' and 'Decision in Normandy' by Carlo D'Este are worth reading.

Whilst there is no doubt that he was not a particularly likeable man, and lets be honest, every army had someone like that, the authors of those books do present evidence that he was a competent General under the circumstances. 'Colossal Cracks' is a fairly recent book that draws on more recently available records and historical research methods.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 19, 2015, 11:26:45 AM
How did I know you would be the first to answer, Bawb?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 19, 2015, 11:31:23 AM
 :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 19, 2015, 11:57:01 AM
Good show, Bawb and thanks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 19, 2015, 12:04:08 PM
My pleasure, Sir.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 19, 2015, 03:02:40 PM
Colossal Cracks snd the Asshole Between Them would be a better title. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 19, 2015, 07:09:00 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on February 19, 2015, 03:02:40 PM
Colossal Cracks snd the Asshole Between Them would be a better title. O0

A new starring vehicle for you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 19, 2015, 07:35:25 PM
sure, I'll play Eisenhower to Bawbs Monty.
Bawbs stache' with of course play the role of Goring.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 19, 2015, 07:47:31 PM
Somehow there will be S&M and toilet stall foot tapping in this blockbuster.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 19, 2015, 08:25:18 PM
well sure... Gus is a secret agent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 20, 2015, 10:31:56 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on February 19, 2015, 07:35:25 PM
sure, I'll play Eisenhower to Bawbs Monty.
Bawbs stache' with of course play the role of Goring.

I'd love to continue this battle of wits with you, but clearly, you're unarmed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 20, 2015, 10:43:48 AM
Clearly your moustache is doing the typing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 20, 2015, 10:45:58 AM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on February 20, 2015, 10:43:48 AM
thectypinthe

˙pǝsnɟuoɔ os ɯ,ı
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 20, 2015, 10:53:22 AM
I was at a stop light.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on February 28, 2015, 09:52:01 AM
I'm getting time now to finish through this one:

"A Writer At War", Vasily Grossman (edited & translated by Antony Beevor & Luba Vinogradova)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51A67VDPEHL._SY344_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg&hash=014541648931ad2fe858501009875d6ed94a1913)

Very gripping read about Grossman's eye witness account when travelling with the Red Army during 1941-1945.  Recommended for anyone interested in anything Eastern Front.  Planning on getting 'Life & Fate' next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on February 28, 2015, 10:55:25 AM
Missiles have just been launched in arc light - great read so far
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 28, 2015, 02:43:32 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on February 28, 2015, 10:55:25 AM
Missiles have just been launched in arc light - great read so far

Ooh, that's a good one. Enjoy!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 28, 2015, 03:06:54 PM
About to start Peter Heather's Empires & Barbarians, about the fall of Rome and what came after.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 28, 2015, 05:44:20 PM
'Kursk - Hitler's Gamble, 1943' by Walter S. Dunn, JR. Interesting read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on March 01, 2015, 09:12:40 AM
Bawb that looks like a serious read.  The amazon reviews mentioned it didnt have maps.  How is it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 01, 2015, 10:02:15 AM
So far, its very good. Lots of info on the state of both armies and how the Germans had to juggle manpower around in order to bring the forces up to strength. Also interesting stuff on how the Red army expanded during that period.

There are a couple of maps and a few photo's, but the lack of maps does not detract from the book at all. There are plenty of maps around on the 'net should you feel the need.

I would recommend it for anyone interested in the period / campaign.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on March 01, 2015, 10:11:04 AM
I noticed I don't have any single books on Kursk, I'll consider this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on March 01, 2015, 11:30:55 AM
I am working my way through The Strain Trilogy. Almost finished the second book. I don't know how it compares to the TV series but I am enjoying the books. Interesting take on a vampire apocalypse.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 01, 2015, 02:59:03 PM
I've been shopping around for a good Kursk book too, thanks Bawb.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 01, 2015, 03:29:19 PM
On a lighter note, I just received my copy of Blood Runs in the Family, the most recent compilation of strips for the Order of the Stick web-comic, so I've now started in on that.  Reading Rich's commentary and (especially!) the bonus material is always a joy, but simply reacquainting myself with the main strips in question is always worthwhile and enjoyable. 


Meanwhile, am also continuing to work my way through Star Wars: Wraith Squadron.  I marvel at Aaron Allston's ability to blend great action scenes, well-done interpersonal drama -- most of the pilots have some serious mental/emotional baggage to deal with -- and uproarious, knee-slapping humor.  I'd forgotten just how funny his writing is...but in having done so, I'm now enjoying it that much more.  ;D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 01, 2015, 03:30:29 PM
^^NP - its a Stackpole book, of which I have a fair collection; they are generally very good value, and I often pick up cheap used copies in good condition.

If you want an East Front book with a bit of a difference, I recommend 'Hitler's Spanish Legion' also by Stackpole. I can honestly say its worth while reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Michael Dorosh on March 01, 2015, 07:02:30 PM
Quote from: besilarius on February 15, 2015, 04:10:33 PM
Now, Gus, don't be too hard.  Monty's heart was in the right place (left side of the chest.)
And he did try so hard to put a certain jeune s'a quais to Eighth Army. 
During the Sicily fighting, the heat was tremendous and the troops were suffering.  Stuck in a traffic jam, he noticed that the truck drivers were all down to their scivvy shorts, except for one sartorial genius.  He was wearing a top hat - and nothing else.
With great aplomb he tipped his hat and drove on.
Monty just about split a gut laughing over that and recognizing that there could be issues when London heard of this put out a directive.  The desk bound bureacrats could be sticklers for propriety.
No member of Eight Army should wear top hats in the future.

I believe you're discussing an incident originally told in the book Dileas, the regimental history of the 48th Highlanders of Canada, written by Kim Beattie. The incident you cite was instigated by one of their 'B' Echelon drivers and is recounted on  pages 257 and 258. It was a little bit different than you're telling it, but like all good stories, it has grown in the telling over the years. The original, from the regimental history published in 1956 or so, reads as follows:

THE HISTORY-MAKING SALUTE

It was on this approach road to Assoro that a 48th Highlander gave the most famous salute in regimental history. It was here, too, that 48th originality in adopting substitutes for steel helmets was revealed one day in effective—if startling—style. The worst feature of their lack of clothing was in headdress against Sicily's sun; the steelhelmet, which was all they had, was definitely not designed for it, and you can grow very tired of a knotted handkerchief. The most bizarre of the substitutions was a tall, old-fashioned silk hat to which a 48th vehicle driver "fell heir", For hellery, and to amuse the troops and the Jigaboo populace, the bronzed 30 cwt.-driver, who was often stripped to the waist while on duty, would doff the silk hat with a flourish and an exaggerated bow whenever spotted an audience on the road which looked appreciative. One day he made hilarious history. He saw a staff car coming with an imposing flag up—the Crusader flag of the  commander of the 8th British Army He forgot his silk hat until he saw the General's blue eyes widening with astonishment. What to do? Be nonchalant and ignore Monty? Just proceed and pray? Unhappily, a brief check in the traffic-line stopped the staff car directly opposite his 30-cwt. What to do? What to do? He couldn't salute! Deciding desperately that any action was better than  none at all, the driver seized his silk hat, doffed it with a sweeping cavalier flourish, and bowed his deepest to the General.

An amazed Ploughboy serjeant who was a witness from the next vehicle, later swore that General Montgomery was "completely flabbergasted". He may have been so startled he could neither  act, nor speak at that; the traffic jam broke, and there was no repercussion. That night, Army H.Q. Mess at Lentini was convulsed, and so were many others as the General's story travelled: "The truck driver saluted by doffing a silk hat-and he was stark naked. It was a very, very hot day, and the driver had taken everything off but his boots.

Perhaps with the feeling that the silk-hatted, stark-naked 48th Highlander deserved some sort of recognition, an 8th Army Order—one of the few that appeared in these days on dress  regulations—stated that the lack of availability of proper headdress was no excuse for failure to give the regulation salute to officers. At least a sharp, "Eyes left was expected." The dress situation probably disturbed General Montgomery less than it did many Canadian officers.. To them, it was axiomatic that a sloppy soldier meant a poor soldier. If not, then the basic rules on which they had placed a great deal of emphasis for the creation of soldierly pride, smartness, and the maintenance of discipline were all wrong.


Thank you to the late Art Johnson, Korean War veteran and associate curator of the 48th Highlanders museum, who originally shared the story with me back in 2001.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on March 01, 2015, 07:22:40 PM
A twice told tale is often the best as it grows and grows.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 02, 2015, 02:48:35 AM
did your stache' fight there?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Michael Dorosh on March 02, 2015, 09:08:38 AM
Quote from: bob48 on February 19, 2015, 11:20:31 AM
Yes. I would recommend 'Colossal Cracks' by Stephen Ashley Hart. Also, both 'Bitter Victory' and 'Decision in Normandy' by Carlo D'Este are worth reading.

Whilst there is no doubt that he was not a particularly likeable man, and lets be honest, every army had someone like that, the authors of those books do present evidence that he was a competent General under the circumstances. 'Colossal Cracks' is a fairly recent book that draws on more recently available records and historical research methods.

F.M. Montgomery was more than just competent, he was a skilled commander. He wasn't a diplomat. Some would argue that it wasn't his job to be one - they would probably be at least partially wrong since he was highly placed in the largest coalition in history. But he was far too valuable a military strategist not to forgive for his other failings. And before anyone guffaws at that, all they need to do is read 'Colossal Cracks' to understand where his strengths lay.  The British and Canadians had limited resources, the latter also had a government with a limited liability outlook, and it was Montgomery's job to take these disparate forces into the field and fight against a repressive fascist dictatorship which was using all means available to it. The Germans were using slave labour, foreign soldiers, dropping the conscription age to 16, targeting civilians with rockets, etc. Montgomery took an uneven balance sheet and adopted a warfighting style that worked, and worked well.

Montgomery is criticized heavily for his mistakes, but these were often of other people's making - the press conference in January 1945, for example, where he is misquoted for taking credit for the Battle of the Bulge, for example. He is lambasted for his "uncharacteristic" use of airborne forces in MARKET-GARDEN, but those who do have obviously never studied the drafts of Operation PERCH - Montgomery was going to ambitiously drop the 1st Airborne into Normandy a couple of days after D-Day in order to take Caen. Criticized in many circles for being "timid," that hardly sounds like the plans of a shrinking violet - and in fact, the plan was watered down not by him, nor his staff, but IIRC by the RAF's Air Marshal Leigh-Mallory who argued the division wouldn't be able to concentrate sufficiently (it was RAF officers who had kvetched about anticipated 80% casualties among the paratroopers on D-Day, also, whereas Montgomery had been the one to insist to Eisenhower that they simply "Go" with the invasion already, weather or not).

Carlo D'Este's Decision in Normandy was once considered the go-to book on Montgomery's planning of the Normandy battles, but Stephen Ashley Hart presents some interesting new info - probably a must-read for anyone who wants to discuss Montgomery and the "way of war" of the 21st Army Group.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 02, 2015, 09:47:16 AM
Interesting that the conversation has turned to Montgomery. I just started Monty's Men over the weekend.

http://www.amazon.com/Montys-Men-British-Liberation-Europe/dp/0300134495
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 02, 2015, 07:16:16 PM
I dunno.  I read Monty's Greatest Victory: 1944-45 about six months ago and I'm now reading Forgotten Victory: First Canadian Army and the Cruel Winter of 1944-45.  They both cover Operation Vertiable and the push into Northern Germany.  I think Monty was his own worst enemy.  He had almost no social skills and a huge yet delicate ego (sounds uncomfortably similar to my boss) and that ended up costing lives.  He certainly was no help to the Canadians as he constantly meddled in their internal affairs and tried to get those in his circle promoted while stymieing the careers of others.  He also tended to give the Canucks the real shit assignments while often taking away assets that would have helped them. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on March 02, 2015, 07:52:40 PM
Good points by both Dorosh & SDR.

My two cents.  To be fair, both Patton & Montgomery were prima donnas and both had their pros and cons.  Some just have to show you that they think they are the best, and you just have to be along for the ride and nod.  In Pattons case, you were either with him or against him. 

I think Monty had it more in for Eisenhower (being the Supreme Allied Commander) rather than being at odds with Patton.  Monty was never a fan of the 'broad front' strategy proposed and stuck to by Ike.  However, as others pointed out earlier, Ike knew his forces were not the Wehrmact and had to also deal with public opinions and democratic governments; nothing the Wehrmacht , Red Army or IJA  had to deal with. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on March 03, 2015, 08:54:06 PM
The only thing worse than fighting a war with allies, is fighting a war without allies.  - George C. Marshal.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on March 05, 2015, 02:44:03 PM
BARBAROSSA UNLEASHED by CRAIG W.H. LUTHER (Author)

A fantastic book. With lots of fold out maps aswell!!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0764343769?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0764343769?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 07, 2015, 02:12:17 PM
Empires and Barbarians by Peter Heather is quite disapponting :(...it reads very clinically, like a 600 page long term paper. I'll skim through it...sucks because I have been looking forward to reading it for a long time. I guess I am a romantic at heart and need a heroic narrative to my history and not a clinical breakdown on why Goths may have gone here or the Vandals went there. Oh well.

Next up is The Inheritance of Rome: Illuminating the Dark Ages by Chris Wickham. Hopefully that will be different.

I am reading these while playing Attila: Total War...anyone got any suggestions (fiction or history) for some good Dark Age reading?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 07, 2015, 04:37:05 PM
I have this on my 'To Read' shelf: The Roman Empire and Its Germanic Peoples (http://www.amazon.com/The-Roman-Empire-Germanic-Peoples/dp/0520244907), though probably not the kind of flowing Heroic Narrative you are looking for.  :-\
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 07, 2015, 05:43:02 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 07, 2015, 02:12:17 PM
Empires and Barbarians by Peter Heather is quite disapponting :(...it reads very clinically, like a 600 page long term paper. I'll skim through it...sucks because I have been looking forward to reading it for a long time. I guess I am a romantic at heart and need a heroic narrative to my history and not a clinical breakdown on why Goths may have gone here or the Vandals went there. Oh well.

Next up is The Inheritance of Rome: Illuminating the Dark Ages by Chris Wickham. Hopefully that will be different.

I am reading these while playing Attila: Total War...anyone got any suggestions (fiction or history) for some good Dark Age reading?

Have you read Bernard Cornwell's Arthur series?  It's the Arthurian legend set in England and sees the Welsh trying to stem the Saxon invasions.

His Saxon series is also good and deals with the Saxons trying to deal with those pesky Vikings.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 07, 2015, 10:55:16 PM
I've read some Cornwell, just one or two. And thanks 'Wing...that also looks textbookesque, though...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 08, 2015, 01:28:35 AM
As always, I'm working through multiple books at the same time.

I'm about halfway through A Blaze of Glory by Shaara, and I just downloaded a book called, The Long Ships on my Kindle, about Viking stuff.  The Long Ships is supposed to be pretty classic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 08, 2015, 02:43:33 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 07, 2015, 10:55:16 PM
I've read some Cornwell, just one or two. And thanks 'Wing...that also looks textbookesque, though...

Check out the Arthur series then.  There are only 3 books in it so you don't have to make a huge commitment if you find you don't like it.  Great series in my opinion.  There's no real magic or fantasy involved.  It's presented as straight historical fiction.

http://www.amazon.ca/Winter-King-Arthur-Warlord-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B002ZJSU6A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1425800228&sr=8-2&keywords=bernard+cornwell+warlord
(http://www.amazon.ca/Winter-King-Arthur-Warlord-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B002ZJSU6A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1425800228&sr=8-2&keywords=bernard+cornwell+warlord)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 08, 2015, 11:57:15 AM
Thanks Toonces and SDR, will check out The Long Ships and the Arthur series :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 11, 2015, 02:17:15 PM
Gus, be sure to check back in with how you thought Inheritance of Rome went; I haven't read it yet.

I have some classic Dark Age studies I haven't read yet, generally as part of larger medieval history collections I haven't gotten around to.

I can recommend four good histories told using the spread of Christianity as the backbone for examining cultural and political developments, though.

Jenkins' The Jesus Wars and The Lost History of Christianity duology: from the 300s to around the 700s, focuses more than the other books on how doctrinal struggles shaped history (and vice versa) around the Mediterranean. Despite the colorful publishing titles, and the warts-and-all approach, it's respectful to all the parties involved and he tries to do justice to everyone's concerns at the time.

Holland's The Forge of Christendom: from around the 600s up to the early 1000s, reintegrating Mediterranean culture into the areas overrun by the barbarian tribes, and how they contributed their own cultures into the new mix.

The Barbarian Conversions: pretty much the whole period from pre-Constantine to the beginning of war between Christian states -- naturally it's the largest book, too, with the widest topical and geographical scope including the Middle-East, western Asia, and North Africa. A deep as well as wide political history, it can be kind of overwhelming sometimes as the author jumps around juggling topical cats!  :D I was glad I happened to have read the other books first so I could keep track of the developing narratives better. As a one-stop history of the political developments, though, I would think it's hard to beat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 11, 2015, 02:20:25 PM
Meanwhile, thanks to recommendations from the Vietnam '65 game thread, I'm currently working through both The Ten Thousand Day War and Unheralded Victory, more-or-less in parallel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 11, 2015, 03:20:36 PM
Having finished the latest OOTS collection, I'm now fully back on track with the X-Wing series.  Am almost halfway through Iron Fist (Book 6); am especially enjoying the journey that Gara/Lara is making with her character. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 11, 2015, 04:40:35 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on March 11, 2015, 02:20:25 PM
Meanwhile, thanks to recommendations from the Vietnam '65 game thread, I'm currently working through both The Ten Thousand Day War and Unheralded Victory, more-or-less in parallel.

Enjoyed the first one, but, as mentioned I think earlier in this thread(?), whilst interesting, I'm not sure if I agree with all the conclusions in 'Unheralded Victory'.

However, two books I would recommend are 'About Face' by Col.David Hackworth, and 'A Bright Shining Lie' by Neil Sheehan'

Oh, and 'The Rise and Fall of an American Army: U.S. Ground Forces in Vietnam, 1965-1973' by Shelby Stanton
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 11, 2015, 05:57:19 PM
I found my grandfather's copy of A Time For Trumpets. I cracked it open and started reading it again. I haven't read it in probably 25 years.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2015, 06:06:48 PM
Thanks for the above Jason, going to check them all out. They sound pricey though.

I'm holding off on Inheritance of Rome for when I start a good CKII Charlemagne campaign.

Next up is some sci fi to read while playing Sid Meier's Starships and the newly remastered Homeworld...mostly The Dragon Never Sleeps and Terms of Enlistment.

That is, if I can pull myself away from Attila: TW. I think I can for a few weeks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 15, 2015, 05:34:51 PM
Just started Glen Cook's The Dragon Never Sleeps. Like other Cook it's all over the place with complex canon...it should come with a map or guide. But it's not badly written.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 15, 2015, 07:28:12 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 15, 2015, 05:34:51 PM
it should come with a map or guide. But it's not badly written.

so should women.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on March 16, 2015, 06:25:55 AM
Was always a little surprised that no one tried to do a game on Glen Cook's the Black Company.  Couldn't be tactical, although with the new games like JTS Pike and Shot, you could try to make scenarios.
But a fantasy world could be really deep.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 16, 2015, 08:10:39 AM
I've read some Black Company too. The thing with Cook is that I always hope to like his work more than I actually do.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 16, 2015, 06:31:08 PM
Not sure any of you have read them both to agree/disagree with my comparison, but, the Black Company books remind me of Roger Zelazny's Amber books.  What I mean is, I liked the first five Amber books much better than the next five.  I had a similar problem with Cook's Black Company.  It seemed as if both authors went to the well one too many times.  For comparisons sake, it doesn't even have to be those two authors.  It could be any who have a recognized set of characters and a break in time between the first series and the second.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 16, 2015, 06:40:08 PM
I know at least one friend who likes the Malleorean more than the Belegariad (not sure about spelling), to the point of choosing one set rather than the other when keeping books for a move across country.

And most people think Weis and Hickman managed to improve on Dragonlance with the Legends after the Chronicles -- though certainly everyone agrees they eventually went to that well too many times (arguably anything after Legends at all).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 16, 2015, 06:48:32 PM
And I would choose the Belgariad and Chronicles over the Malloreon and Legends.  What makes me most happy is that we have so many good books to choose from.  And even a decent book is WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY better than a decent tv show.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 16, 2015, 06:53:38 PM
^^ Indeed.

(Though you're the first person I recall ever thinking the original trilogy was better than the sequel. Not that I can't see some reasons why, just unusual.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 16, 2015, 07:28:50 PM
It's not unusual to be flummoxed by MD.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 16, 2015, 07:38:17 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on March 16, 2015, 06:53:38 PM
^^ Indeed.

(Though you're the first person I recall ever thinking the original trilogy was better than the sequel. Not that I can't see some reasons why, just unusual.)

I will admit, it's been fully twenty years since I read the Malloreon.  It may be that it is better than the Belgariad, which I see as a thinly veiled Lord of the Rings.  As for Dragonlance, Chronicles beats all!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on March 16, 2015, 08:39:29 PM
Finished
A MURDER OF QUALITY.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 21, 2015, 11:19:04 AM
Not really digging Glen Cook's book either, I remember A Passage at Arms being better. I am 0 for 3 in my last three reads :( Next up is Terms of Enlistment by Cloos. Fingers crossed for that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 21, 2015, 11:23:50 AM
I read the first two books in Cloos's series a few months back.  They were alright.  Kinda forgotten most of the details already.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 21, 2015, 10:29:31 PM
Terms of Enlistment is the first one, right? Maybe I'll just put it on the back burner for now. Is it a quick read at least? The Dragon Never Sleeps is only 300 pages but they are 300 dense, sluggish pages :/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on March 21, 2015, 10:49:34 PM
Terms on Enlistment is the first one and it's pretty light.  I breezed through each one in a few days.  They're pretty standard sci-fi space grunt stuff.  I thought the second one was better than the first.  I haven't read the third one in the series. 

I kind of went on a military themed, hard sci-fi bender there for a while but I think I'm better now.  I think of the 5-6 different series I read, I liked the Star Carrier ones the best. 

http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Strike-Star-Carrier-Book-ebook/dp/B0037B6QX4/ref=pd_sim_kstore_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=08K58HVPV1X9JFWD46ZZ (http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Strike-Star-Carrier-Book-ebook/dp/B0037B6QX4/ref=pd_sim_kstore_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=08K58HVPV1X9JFWD46ZZ)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 21, 2015, 11:09:45 PM
^Nice, thanks for that link.

The second one in Cloos' series looks pretty good too, I've had that in my Amazon cart for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on March 22, 2015, 07:57:50 AM
I am currently reading The Providence of Fire by Brian Staveley. It is the second book in the Chronicle of the Unhewn Throne series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 22, 2015, 08:00:44 AM
Still merrily chugging through the X-Wing series.  Just started Book 8, Isard's Revenge.  :) 




Quote from: Greybriar on March 22, 2015, 07:57:50 AM
I am currently reading The Providence of Fire by Brian Staveley. It is the second book in the Chronicle of the Unhewn Throne series.
How many books total, Greybriar?  Is the series finished? 



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on March 22, 2015, 08:48:46 AM
Only two so far, Martok. According to this (http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20753341-untitled), the third book in the series is scheduled to be released in January 2016.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 22, 2015, 09:59:57 AM
Great name for the series, though... unhewn throne.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 22, 2015, 08:47:17 PM
As usual I'm trucking through a couple of books.  On the non-fiction front I'm working my way through The Guns at Last Light by Atkinson, and just started High Tide at Gettysburg by Tucker.  I'm not grooving on the Gettysburg book, though, so if it doesn't pick up I'm going to move on.  I have plenty of unread Civil War books to get through.

I also just started reading Unfinished Tales by Tolkien that I found in a used book store Friday.  So far I'm enjoying it.  I was searching for some of the fantasy books you guys mentioned and came across a book called The Seer King by Chris Bunch that sounds good so I just borrowed that and The Children of Hurin by Tokien for my Kindle.

That should all keep me busy for a while!   :buck2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 22, 2015, 08:58:16 PM
Just finished The Dragon Never Sleeps by Glen Cook...absolutely terrible. I skimmed the last 2/3 of it and never, not for one page, did I have the vaguest idea what is going on. The universe was interesting by totally unexplained and undefined. It was like I was just supposed to understand a billion aeons of history for 1000 different cultures, condensed into 300 pages. Meh.

I really hope Marko Kloos' Terms of Enlistment can rekindle my interest in military space sci-fi.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on March 22, 2015, 09:18:05 PM
Dies he Fire by S. M. Stirling
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on March 22, 2015, 09:46:04 PM
In all your books, the butler did it.

I'm reading
"Is the American Century Over?" Joseph S. Nye Jr.

I spotted it from the link to his talk in another thread. It's either very short or very interesting. I'm half through in no time, Quite a bit is on the Russia situation.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 23, 2015, 07:58:15 AM
What does he have to say about the Russia situation?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on March 23, 2015, 11:31:21 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 23, 2015, 07:58:15 AM
What does he have to say about the Russia situation?

A sample paragraph:

  Declining powers like the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman Empires in 1914 can prove highly disruptive in the international system. Putin's Russia lacks a strategy for long-term recovery and reacts opportunistically (and sometimes successfully in the short run) to domestic insecurity, perceived external threats, and the weakness of neighbors. Russia thus becomes a revisionist spoiler of the status quo seeking to become a catalyst for other revisionist powers which chafe at American pre-eminence. But an ideology of anti-liberalism and Russian nationalism is a poor source of soft power. Rather than having a universal appeal beyond Russia's borders, it tends to be self-limiting by creating mistrust. Thus the prospects for Russian plans for a Eurasian Union to compete with the European Union are limited.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on March 23, 2015, 12:50:29 PM
This is the first strategy type book that I think I will finish in 3 or 4 days. Usually I have to cogitate on sections, making the book last a while. This book goes down like milkshake, where you are straining at the straw that governs your intake.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 23, 2015, 02:42:30 PM
Interesting...what are some of the other chapters about?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on March 23, 2015, 04:14:23 PM
There are 6 chapters, the 7th is a conclusion. The breakdown is how did we get here, is America in decline [no], new challengers [to regional dominance], the rise of China [reading now], comparison to Rome, power shifts/ global complexity, conclusion. About 150 pages.

I expect anyone going to his talk on the 2nd will get the book in coles notes speech format.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 23, 2015, 04:25:00 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on March 22, 2015, 09:18:05 PM
Dies he Fire by S. M. Stirling

I've eyeballed this one. What are your thoughts?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 23, 2015, 06:05:17 PM
Interested to hear about the Rome comparison, Biggs. And. If the author has a timetable for the next 25, 50, 75 years etc.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on March 24, 2015, 07:27:31 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on March 23, 2015, 04:25:00 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on March 22, 2015, 09:18:05 PM
Dies he Fire by S. M. Stirling

I've eyeballed this one. What are your thoughts?

It's pretty good.  To me, it seems a bit long winded at times, but I'll pick up the next one in the series before long. 

Let me elaborate. 

Stirling does a good job of talking about how fragile modern society is.  The heart of the book is how society start to rebuild itself as small groups.  He also talks about reinventing the tools that where used 300 years ago.  Unfortunately, he tends to gloss over too much of this and not a lot of detail.  There are a lot of times that I'm left scratching my head.  As an example, there is point that they talk about having made some ice cream.  Great, but how did hey do this without ice.  If they had ice, where did they get it in the middle of summer with no electricity. 

If you're going into this wanting a story on reinventing 300 year old tools that are needed for society to survive, then you'll be disappointed.  If you're looking more for a society structure rebuild, then this may be a book you like.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on March 24, 2015, 12:59:20 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 23, 2015, 06:05:17 PM
Interested to hear about the Rome comparison, Biggs. And. If the author has a timetable for the next 25, 50, 75 years etc.

The Rome comparison seems to be more of a response to other books that have put that in their title, maybe to get sales from history buffs. The chapter doesn't really say much about it, it does not fit for the author. It mostly lays out descriptions of US culture, politics, and the economy.

My take is that a king of the hill type empire would not fit with American ideals of freedom, democracy, etc. Some people are always looking for competition. The Us has mutually beneficial relationships with Europe and other countries. That is a source of strength Russia will not understand. The description of the economic relations with the EU, china, etc, is in the book.

Here are the first chapter footnotes he references:


1.Cullen Murphy, Are We Rome? The Fall of an Empire and the Fate of America (New York: Mariner Books, 2007).
2. Paul Kennedy, The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers: Economic Change and Military Conflict Among the Great Powers from 1500 to 2000 (New York: Random House, 1987).
3. Of course, there were many more causes of this complex phenomenon. See Ramsay MacMullen, Corruption and the Decline of Rome (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1988).

A very valuable thing he brings up is the positive and the negative aspects of us culture. Will western leaders ever have the guts to challenge the negative impacts of culture? The fear will of course be looking like an anti-freedom authoritarian. I think popular media can be challenged with incentives of success. A lot of media seems to be pro glamour, anti productivity.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 24, 2015, 09:50:52 PM
I've been planning on reading that Murphy book for a long time. Rise & Fall of the Great Powers is one of my Top 5 books ever. Read it 20+ years ago but still remember some bits.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 25, 2015, 10:40:21 AM
Just downloaded a couple of free Steampunk books for my Kindle.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 25, 2015, 05:41:52 PM
Titles or it didn't happen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 25, 2015, 05:51:46 PM
Oops, sorry;

The Nephele Ship: Volume One - The Frozen Workshop


The Tinkerer's Daughter
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on March 26, 2015, 05:45:40 AM
Quote from: bob48 on March 25, 2015, 05:51:46 PM
...
The Tinkerer's Daughter


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 26, 2015, 01:19:36 PM
I have been enjoying Tolkien's Unfinished Tales far more than I expected.  It's much darker than LotR.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 26, 2015, 01:22:17 PM
Quote from: Toonces on March 26, 2015, 01:19:36 PM
I have been enjoying Tolkien's Unfinished Tales far more than I expected.  It's much darker than LotR.

It's good to know you're getting something out of it. It was the first of his books I tried to read, back in middle school, and it totally turned me off of Tolkein, so much that I never read any of his other books. Even to this day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 26, 2015, 01:31:08 PM
No way would I suggest starting with it.  But having read LotR, most of the Hobbit, and about half The Silmarilion, I have a better appreciation of what I'm getting into.  Having at least some familiarity with Silmarilion was kind of critical because it lays the groundwork for a lot of the stuff in Unfinished Tales.

Give Tolkien another shot, but start with Hobbit or LotR.  When I finish Tales I'm going to circle back to Silmarilion I think and try to finish it...after The Hobbit of course!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 26, 2015, 06:31:36 PM
When you get back to the Silmarillion, Toonces, power through the Ainulindale and the Valaquenta.  That's the first part with the creation story.  It's about 40 pages or so and it's kind of boring, but, it sets the whole rest of EVERYTHING in motion.

@B_C: I second Toonces recommendation to try Tolkien again.  The Hobbit is a great place to start.  It's definitely a kids book at heart.  Failing that, you might pick up a copy of Return of the King and go poking through the Appendices.  There's a lot of good history and odds and ends, including a chapter on languages of the races of Middle Earth, the alphabets used by those races, and time keeping (calendars) in use in LotR.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 07, 2015, 02:55:29 PM
Whilst eating my lunch at work early this morning, I finally finished Mercy Kill, the 10th (and final) book in the X-Wing series.  It didn't seem as well-written or -paced as the others IMO, although that could be (at least in part) because it refers a fair bit to events from the New Jedi Order and Legacy of the Force series, which I never read. 

Still, I did enjoy re-reading it overall, as I did the series as a whole; I honestly think I liked it as much as I did the first time.  O0  I also liked that Mercy Kill switches the primary focus to one of the non-human characters; it was a refreshing change for a Star Wars novel. 



Next up:  I'm taking (what is for me) a rare detour into non-fiction, diving into historian David McCullough's biography of John Adams.  I know it's well-regarded (as is McCullough's work in general), so I'm looking forward to it.  I'm obviously not deep into the biography yet, but it's engaging thus far. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 07, 2015, 08:00:14 PM
McCullough is a great writer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 07, 2015, 08:08:31 PM
Anyone who can read the Silmarilion is more effed up than I am and I salute you!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 07, 2015, 08:09:58 PM
Thanks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 07, 2015, 08:10:08 PM
I think...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 07, 2015, 08:20:48 PM
Pretty sure the Silmarillion was my first Tolkien book. I don't think I made it a hundred pages.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 07, 2015, 10:46:18 PM
I was put off by it, too.  And got about as far.  I think I was 11.  Or 12, maybe, when I first tried.  Like I told Toonces, I finally powered through the creation myth (the Ainulindale and the Valaquenta), and once you're through, it all starts to be pretty good stuff.  How the Valar shaped the world and came down to live in it, anticipating the coming of the Elves.  Morgoth being a venomous dick and poisoning the relationship between the Elves and the Valar.  Feanor, the Kinslaughter, and the return of the Noldor to Middle Earth.  Really good stuff.  Full of battles, betrayal, and tragedy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 08, 2015, 04:21:38 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 07, 2015, 08:00:14 PM
McCullough is a great writer.
Good to know.  Anything in particular by him that you'd recommend? 




Quote from: mirth on April 07, 2015, 08:20:48 PM
Pretty sure the Silmarillion was my first Tolkien book.
Yikes!  Well that was your problem right there, I guarantee it. 

The Silmarillion is way too dense a read if you're just diving into the Tolkien-verse for the first time.  Much better to start off with The Hobbit (especially if you're younger and/or can still have an appreciation for children's stories) and the Lord of the Rings books. 

The Silmarillion reads like sort of a combination history textbook and "Bible" for Tolkien's world.  It doesn't read like a narrative story per se. 




Quote from: MetalDog on April 07, 2015, 10:46:18 PM
and once you're through, it all starts to be pretty good stuff.  How the Valar shaped the world and came down to live in it, anticipating the coming of the Elves.  Morgoth being a venomous dick and poisoning the relationship between the Elves and the Valar.  Feanor, the Kinslaughter, and the return of the Noldor to Middle Earth.  Really good stuff.  Full of battles, betrayal, and tragedy.
Agreed.  Getting through the creation story is the toughest part in my experience as well.  Once you're past that, though, the reading becomes much more interesting (and therefore easier). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 08, 2015, 06:55:37 AM
Quote from: Martok on April 08, 2015, 04:21:38 AM
The Silmarillion reads like sort of a combination history textbook and "Bible" for Tolkien's world.  It doesn't read like a narrative story per se. 

Believe me, I know ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 08, 2015, 07:33:37 AM
One of my favorite books ever is The Great Bridge by McCollough...you can probably get it for free somewhere at this point.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 08, 2015, 05:50:12 PM
I'm pouring through a bunch of book simultaneously.

I'm reading:

Bomber Command: Reflections of War vol 1-5

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51%252BmSpetHTL._SX258_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg&hash=805a80a130475a6e9dc031e68a422d286cc6b649)

Comprehensive history of the role of Bomber Command throughout the war.  It's good but relies a little too much on anecdotal accounts and doesn't go into the bigger picture as much as I'd like.


The Other Battle:  Luftwaffe Night Aces vs Bomber Command

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51nIpA9vIqL._SY344_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg&hash=3780633021596eaa4548993d5c05c78162e1423f)

It's very good so far.  It goes into a lot of depth concerning the back and forth technology race between the Germans and the UK/Commonwealth and shows how each new development in radar, jamming, navigation, etc brought about changes in the tactics utilized by both sides.



Avro Lancaster.  Owner's Workshop Manual


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.haynes.co.uk%2FPress%2FHaynesJackets%2FRGBhr_H4463.jpg&hash=b0e7226816d4274aa153aee048e33e290aa4cf60)

Lots of detailed information on the internal workings of the Lancaster.  (and full of pretty pictures!)





Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on April 08, 2015, 06:42:07 PM
Martok, question out of the blue: what's your favorite Star Trek novel?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 08, 2015, 07:12:05 PM
^ I know you're not asking me, but my favorite was Vendetta. Imzadi was pretty good too. Basically any Peter David Star Trek novel, you cannot go wrong with.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on April 08, 2015, 07:18:43 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 08, 2015, 07:12:05 PM
^ I know you're not asking me, but my favorite was Vendetta. Imzadi was pretty good too. Basically any Peter David Star Trek novel, you cannot go wrong with.

I am interested in Martok's thoughts but any others are welcome to answer. I haven't read Vendetta but I'll check it out. Imzadi's love story theme made me avoid it.  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 08, 2015, 07:24:09 PM
^ Yeah I know, but it was still a good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 08, 2015, 08:00:08 PM
The Guns at Last Light by Rick Atkinson. Pretty good. Focuses on a lot of areas in the west in 1944 that usually get overlooked, like Operation Dragoon and the huertgen forest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 08, 2015, 08:24:07 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 08, 2015, 07:12:05 PM
^ I know you're not asking me, but my favorite was Vendetta. Imzadi was pretty good too. Basically any Peter David Star Trek novel, you cannot go wrong with.

The Diane Duane Trek books are excellent - Wounded Sky, My Enemy My Ally, Spock's World, The Romulan Way, Doctor's Orders. I read almost every Trek novel from the 80s into the early 90s. The Diane Duane books were by far the best, imo. I still own several of them after getting rid of all the others.

Vonda McIntyre's novelizations of Wrath of Khan and Search for Spock were also quite good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 08, 2015, 09:20:51 PM
I'll have to try those. I was never really into the TOS books but I think I read Spock's World a long time ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 08, 2015, 09:40:03 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 08, 2015, 09:20:51 PM
I'll have to try those. I was never really into the TOS books but I think I read Spock's World a long time ago.

I started reading Trek novels after Wrath of Khan came out. I was into them pretty heavy for a while. Must have owned 30-plus paperbacks at one point. I got out of them around when the Next Gen books were taking off. I did read Vendetta though and enjoyed it. Nothing against the Next Gen novels, just started having different interests -college, women. Should have stuck with the books :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on April 09, 2015, 06:44:06 AM
Kind of the same as you mirth. A few of my favorites were Yesterday's Son, Black Fire, Dreadnought and Ishmael.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 09, 2015, 07:07:25 AM
The TNG Q books were pretty good too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 07:33:11 AM
Quote from: bbmike on April 09, 2015, 06:44:06 AM
Kind of the same as you mirth. A few of my favorites were Yesterday's Son, Black Fire, Dreadnought and Ishmael.

Black Fire was one of my favs too. I can still remember reading it as kid in '84.

Enterprise: The First Adventure, with Kirk taking command of the Enterprise, was another good one.

Could be time to hit the used book store :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 07:34:27 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 09, 2015, 07:07:25 AM
The TNG Q books were pretty good too.

I'd have to get past my hatred of Q as a character.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 09, 2015, 07:37:23 AM
Well, Encounter at Farpoint was a terrible, terrible pilot episode. I despised the Q character (and wasn't even sure I could get hooked by TNG at the time, but it was ST so I stuck with it). The later writers did a much better job with the character, IMO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 07:41:30 AM
John de Lancie made that character far more likable and enjoyable than it should have been. Love de Lancie as an actor, still hate Q.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 09, 2015, 10:00:06 AM
The Peter David Q novels happen to be the only times I haven't winced at Q's presence in a story. And one of those is Q-In-Law, featuring Lwaxana Troi! {shudder}

That one was tolerably good, all things considered. Q-Squared (with the Squire of Gothos) on the other hand is quite epic: Peter David does his usual continuity trawl to connect Q with many (most? all?) of the godlike energy beings from TOS, going all the way back to "Where No Man Has Gone Before".

Having said that, I haven't read enough Trek novels to have any opinion about better or worse ones. The only other one I've ever read, also by Peter David, was Vendetta (which has the advantage of synching the Borg to a key TOS story, namely the Doomsday Machine -- and which again managed the miracle of keeping me from wincing at Whoopi Goldberg's character whose name I can't recall at the moment.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 10:51:56 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 09, 2015, 10:00:06 AM
and which again managed the miracle of keeping me from wincing at Whoopi Goldberg's character whose name I can't recall at the moment.)

Guinan. Another character, I could barely stomach.

Don't get me started on Wesley Crusher.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on April 09, 2015, 11:02:48 AM
Quote from: mirth on April 09, 2015, 10:51:56 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 09, 2015, 10:00:06 AM
and which again managed the miracle of keeping me from wincing at Whoopi Goldberg's character whose name I can't recall at the moment.)

Guinan. Another character, I could barely stomach.

Don't get me started on Wesley Crusher.

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Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 09, 2015, 11:24:24 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimglulz.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F%2F2013%2F01%2F734255_580651251961159_1485423708_n.jpg&hash=6b080079041835cd7f7b5bbb6e44dc11f6576edd)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 11:26:55 AM
^excellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 09, 2015, 11:33:13 AM
I was one of the Wesley haters. But I thoroughly enjoy Wil Wheaton as a boardgaming geek.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 11:38:19 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 09, 2015, 11:33:13 AM
I was one of the Wesley haters. But I thoroughly enjoy Wil Wheaton as a boardgaming geek.

Wheaton's great. Table Top is fantastic show and a real boon to gaming.

I have thoroughly enjoyed his appearances on Big Bang Theory and his work on other shows, like Eureka.

Gawd how I hated Wesley though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 09, 2015, 02:01:36 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 08, 2015, 07:33:37 AM
One of my favorite books ever is The Great Bridge by McCollough...you can probably get it for free somewhere at this point.
Thanks Gus.  Bridges have long been an interesting subject for me as well, so that's probably one I would also enjoy. 





Quote from: bbmike on April 08, 2015, 06:42:07 PM
Martok, question out of the blue: what's your favorite Star Trek novel?
Oh boy.  You would ask me that one.  ::)  That truly is a tough question... 



Gun to my head, though (and after having given it some thought), I'd probably have to say Dark Mirror by Diane Duane.  (Like mirth, she's my single favorite Trek author -- Keith R. A. DeCandido and Peter David rounding out my top three.)  To fully appreciate/enjoy the book, you need to be a TNG fan, as well as having seen TOS episode "Mirror, Mirror"; if you qualify in both respects, however, then it's a novel I cannot recommend enough. 

Duane is also responsible for my favorite Star Trek series, the Rihannsu (also sometimes known as the Bloodwing series).  It's four (technically five) books -- My Enemy, My Ally, The Romulan Way, Swordhunt/Honor Blade, and The Empty Chair -- that take a close look at the Romulans, going back to their initial split from the Vulcans almost 2000 years ago.  It's unusual/remarkable that I enjoy the series so much, because it's set in the TOS era; I'm normally more of a TNG/DS9 fan.  It's extremely well-written, however, and I'm one of the many fans that wish Roddenberry would've/could've seen his way to accepting the books as canon. 


Despite the love story angle (which you say you'd rather avoid), I also strongly second Banzai_Cat's recommendation of Peter David's Imzadi.  Without wanting to spoil too much, I will only say it was very well done. 

I also concur with mirth's recommendation of Spock's World by Diane Duane.  It refers to events in the Rihannsu series, although that's not why you should read it.  You should read it because Dr. McCoy gives one of the most epic speeches I've ever read in a modern literary work...to an entire planetful of Vulcans about why they're wrong (remember his constant arguments with Spock)...and then gets a standing ovation from said Vulcans when he's finished.  Just epic. 

One other Trek novel I feel compelled to mention is Kahless, written by Michael Jan Friedman.  (If the book had come out ten years later than it did, it would've been written by DeCandido; he's all about the Klingons! :) )  You do want to have seen the TNG episode of the same name before you read the book, but it's a fine piece of writing IMHO; I like how it contrasts between how legendary/mythical characters are commonly viewed/portrayed and how they actually *were*. 





Quote from: mirth on April 09, 2015, 11:38:19 AM
Gawd how I hated Wesley though.
Just about everyone did.  >:D 

Heck, from what I understand, Wheaton himself didn't like the character.  It's one of the reasons he eventually left the show. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 02:04:26 PM
Quote from: Martok on July 12, 1974, 07:30:09 AM
Gun to my head, though (and after having given it some thought), I'd probably have to say Dark Mirror by Diane Duane.  (Like mirth, she's my single favorite Trek author --

Whoa, a Diane Duane Trek novel I haven't read!  :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 09, 2015, 02:17:49 PM
Go read it.  Read it now!! 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 09, 2015, 02:20:22 PM
Already perusing Amazon ;) Apparently I missed out on the last couple of Rihannsu books as well. This will keep me busy for awhile.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 10, 2015, 10:22:45 PM
Reading Bill lind's column from 2004 ( part of several years for a couple bucks on amazon). He has some good lines. Excerpt:

"Reality 1, Neocons 0

The Marines have landed, and the situation is not well in hand, nor will it ever be. I am speaking, of course, of Haiti, that boil on the Western Hemisphere's posterior which no plaster can ever cure. In the 18th century, Haiti was so rich, thanks to the sugar trade, that it alone provided two-thirds of the value of France's overseas commerce. Today, Haiti is so poor that the average American dog probably lives better than the average Haitian. But I forget: just ten years ago, we solved all of Haiti's problems. Applying the neocons' prescription for the whole world, we sent in thousands of American troops, overthrew the "undemocratic"Haitian government and installed Haiti's Mr. Chalabi, Monsieur Aristide–the same savior who just departed, with Washington's encouragement, to the universal anthem of the Third World's elite, "I'm Leavin' on a Jet Plane". For some incomprehensible reason, democracy backed by American bayonets failed to turn Haiti into Switzerland. It's probably because we forgot to teach them how to make cuckoo clocks and put holes in cheese. Haiti is in fact a fair test of the neocons' thesis, a thesis we are now putting to further trials in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their core argument is that history and culture simply don't matter. Everyone in the world wants American-style democratic capitalism, and everyone is also capable of it. To think otherwise is to commit the sin of historicism. The argument is absurd on the face of it. History and culture don't matter? Not only do the failed cultures and disastrous histories of most of the world argue the contrary, so does our own history and culture. Democratic capitalism first developed in one place, England, over an historical course that goes back almost a thousand years, to the Magna Carta. America was born as an independent country to guarantee the rights of Englishmen. If England had possessed the culture of, say Mongolia, can anyone with the slightest grasp on reality think we would be what we are today? While the neocons' thesis says nothing about reality, it says a great deal about the neocons themselves. First, it tells us that they are ideologues. All ideologies posit that certain things must be true,"

  ;D

Somtimes he has insight, sometimes he seems lost. Worth reading. Have things changed in the decade since? Not really. The topics are still relevant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 11, 2015, 01:06:31 AM
I bought a few Osprey books.


Bf 110 vs Lancaster


(https://ospreypublishing.com/media/catalog/product/cache/2/image/958def80b7ce809d46640f86aa46835c/9/7/9781780963167_3.jpg)

Concise but full of good info and much more critical of the Lanc's shortcomings than other books.  I think it does a great job of presenting a balanced account.  Makes me want to play Nightfighter by GMT but nobody around here is into traditional wargames. 


I've got these two on the way but they're not here yet.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51epjxHQMWL._SY344_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg&hash=5508f11d09a0ee77a15b2722af27b67f7b8587ab)

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Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 11, 2015, 08:04:06 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 11, 2015, 01:06:31 AM


  Makes me want to play Nightfighter by GMT but nobody around here is into traditional wargames. 




How is the game? I see it's currently on sale for $35 at the GMT site.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on April 11, 2015, 03:41:39 PM
It's ok but the guy playing the bombers doesn't really get to do much.  He's more like a referee than an opponent.  The game does have the ability to be added as a tactical component to Bomber Command which is kind of interesting but the narrative doesn't always mesh up that well as Bomber Command handles electronic warfare with an overly simplistic card game element and this means the E/W components being used in Nightfighter might have been neutralized by card play.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 11, 2015, 08:03:44 PM
2004 of Lind's On War is much better than 2003, he seems to have hit his stride. I like the way he thinks now that he is laying out his ideas rather than just pointing to the screwups. Im still not sure the 4gw means much. He says himself the 4th gw is not new. Maybe as a history expert the sequence fits. I think, rather than assuming an evolution in predominance, look at their tools. They work to impact how a society operates by changing it's priorities. They operate through people to avoid the power of a state military. It does not seem that hard to defeat. The problem for some is that it is not a military solution. A military plays a supporting role.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 12, 2015, 04:39:18 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 10, 2015, 10:22:45 PM
Reading Bill lind's column from 2004 ( part of several years for a couple bucks on amazon). He has some good lines. Excerpt:

"Reality 1, Neocons 0

I read that three or four times as "Necrons 0", first with interest, then with amusement, then with growing confusion...  :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on April 13, 2015, 04:18:37 PM
I'm reading Through Struggle, The Stars by Lumpkin.  On recommendation from others here. 

Enjoying it.  The setting is interesting and not too far-fetched for sci-fi.  Makes me consider picking up one of Ad Astra's 3D tabletop space combat games again (Squadron Strike or Attack Vector) due to the more realistic & Newtonian treatment in them.   8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on April 13, 2015, 04:28:48 PM
Nefaro, pick up A Sword Into Darkness.  I liked it a lot more than Through Struggle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 13, 2015, 06:10:29 PM
Quote from: Nefaro on April 13, 2015, 04:18:37 PM
  Makes me consider picking up one of Ad Astra's 3D tabletop space combat games again (Squadron Strike or Attack Vector) due to the more realistic & Newtonian treatment in them.   8)

IIRC there's an Honorverse version of Ad Astra out there somewhere.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 13, 2015, 07:28:28 PM
I am currently reading The War of the Dwarves by Markus Heitz.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on April 13, 2015, 07:51:07 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on April 13, 2015, 06:10:29 PM
Quote from: Nefaro on April 13, 2015, 04:18:37 PM
  Makes me consider picking up one of Ad Astra's 3D tabletop space combat games again (Squadron Strike or Attack Vector) due to the more realistic & Newtonian treatment in them.   8)

IIRC there's an Honorverse version of Ad Astra out there somewhere.

Yes, it's called Saganami Island Tactical Simulator.  Based on the same system as Attack Vector.  Pretty sure it's out of print, but I'm also not very familiar with the Honorverse stuff.

I have been eyeballing AA's Squadron Strike since it plays a bit faster, and has a very flexible ship building spreadsheet so you can translate existing settings' ships or create your own, along with it's default "Diaspora" setting which sounds interesting enough too.  It's similar to the Human Reach Series' situation of current nations taking their beefs along with them while colonizing the stars, which is a big reason I've enjoyed it thus far.  Almost a ready-made start on such a situation.

I already own Birds Of Prey and am a bit familiar with it's PHAD and such, but Ad Astra's space games use a similar mechanic without the need of extra physics nomograph steps (being in space instead of an atmosphere) so it would be an easier system to learn than BoP.  They've been tempting me for awhile and reading this series is pushing me even further.

Quote from: OJsDad on April 13, 2015, 04:28:48 PM
Nefaro, pick up A Sword Into Darkness.  I liked it a lot more than Through Struggle.

Is that the second one or a different series? 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on April 13, 2015, 08:20:02 PM
Quote from: Nefaro on April 13, 2015, 07:51:07 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on April 13, 2015, 04:28:48 PM
Nefaro, pick up A Sword Into Darkness.  I liked it a lot more than Through Struggle.

Is that the second one or a different series?

Different series.  I think it's better written than Stars.  It also starts before humans get off planet. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on April 13, 2015, 10:55:16 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on April 13, 2015, 08:20:02 PM
Quote from: Nefaro on April 13, 2015, 07:51:07 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on April 13, 2015, 04:28:48 PM
Nefaro, pick up A Sword Into Darkness.  I liked it a lot more than Through Struggle.

Is that the second one or a different series?

Different series.  I think it's better written than Stars.  It also starts before humans get off planet.

Cool.  I'll put it in my queue.  The title sounds familiar, I've probably seen it suggested before.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 14, 2015, 07:27:04 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 13, 2015, 07:28:28 PM
I am currently reading The War of the Dwarves by Markus Heitz.

I just finished the first 2 books and really quite enjoyed them. May well download the 3rd book later today.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 15, 2015, 09:07:24 PM
Taking a break from antiquity for a bit and going back to WWII. Beginning Jagdpanther vs. SU-100 by David Higgins (published by Osprey) tonight. Short book. So in a couple of days I will then begin Hitler's Jet Plane by Mano Ziegler. I may finally read The End by Ian Kershaw after that, but Order of Battle may be out by then and so I will begin 1941 by Eri Hotta and then Pacific Crucible by Ian Toll.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcdn.meme.am%2Finstances%2F500x%2F61325588.jpg&hash=f2ba3d0126aac3d32f8dad9b5e9bc7470c3e8be0)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on April 15, 2015, 09:16:27 PM
Halfway through 'when Christ and his saints slept'

I'm so ready for total war medieval 3
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 15, 2015, 09:45:35 PM
^Is that fiction or non?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on April 16, 2015, 03:38:32 AM
its a fictional account of the succession wars in England after the White Ship sank - Maude and Stephen the generation before Henry II (my favourite Medieval King)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 16, 2015, 08:11:16 AM
I read a couple of books about what it's like to work on a cruise ship, while on a cruise a couple of weeks ago...one was good, the other made it painfully obvious that some people should not self-publish.

Of note, during that vacation week I also finally started reading Ready Player One (just finished it last night). It took me forever to get to it but once I did, I was hooked. It amazed me how many pop cultural references the author made to movies, TV shows, and music from the 80s...really makes me wonder how they were legally able to get away with dropping the names they did. If this book has been on your radar or you have not gotten to it yet, I highly, HIGHLY recommend you do, especially if you grew up in the 80s like I did. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 16, 2015, 01:04:00 PM
I have just about finished Stonewall in the Valley, which Peaceflower (where'd he go, anyway) put up as a freebie for Kindle on Amazon a while back.  It was pretty good; I didn't realize how critical Jackson's Valley campaign was to the early Confederate war effort.

I have just re-started for the third time Catton's Mr. Lincoln's Army, vol. 1.  I enjoyed Catton's Civil War trilogy, so this should be a good book.

I have about 10 other Civil War books in my queue, so I may dabble into something else on my Kindle shortly...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 16, 2015, 01:22:56 PM
I'm thinking of getting U.S. Grant's memoirs for my Kindle...it's only $0.99 and over 600 pages. Has anyone here read it?

http://www.amazon.com/Personal-Memoirs-Ulysses-S-Grant-ebook/dp/B004FPYV9C/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 16, 2015, 02:55:48 PM
I haven't, but Longstreet's book is free, which is even more better than $0.99!

There are quite a few free Kindle Civil War books, you have to search a bit, but they're out there.

http://www.amazon.com/Nights-Battle-Field-Charles-Carleton-Coffin-ebook/dp/B004UJTUVW/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_9

http://www.amazon.com/Manassas-Appomattox-Memoirs-Civil-America-ebook/dp/B006QPZX3C/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_12

http://www.amazon.com/Battle-Gettysburg-Frank-Aretas-Haskell-ebook/dp/B004TPWB7C/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_13

And so on...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 16, 2015, 04:23:15 PM
Thanks, Toonces. I grabbed all of the ones you suggested.

I had read Joshua Chamberlain's memoirs and reviewed it for That Other WebsiteTM. I otherwise haven't really delved into Civil War-era memoirs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 16, 2015, 05:52:47 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 16, 2015, 01:22:56 PM
I'm thinking of getting U.S. Grant's memoirs for my Kindle...it's only $0.99 and over 600 pages. Has anyone here read it?

http://www.amazon.com/Personal-Memoirs-Ulysses-S-Grant-ebook/dp/B004FPYV9C/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=

I have. They're great! Very easy to read, witty (Mark Twain helped him compose the document), some subtle humor, and largely honest. Despite the length I thought it was an easy and enjoyable read.

Bit of trivia: Longstreet was best man at Grant's wedding.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on April 16, 2015, 11:23:04 PM
"something better than the nonsense being mouthed by our commanders. (My favorite last week was the American general who claimed Falluja had "broken the back" of the insurgency. Insurgencies, like octopi, are invertebrate"
Lind, 2004

Lol
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on April 17, 2015, 07:50:36 PM
Finally starting Ghost on the Throne: The Death of Alexander the Great and the Bloody Fight for His Empire.

I was delayed by how long it took to read the full title.  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on April 17, 2015, 07:52:59 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 16, 2015, 01:22:56 PM
I'm thinking of getting U.S. Grant's memoirs for my Kindle...it's only $0.99 and over 600 pages. Has anyone here read it?

http://www.amazon.com/Personal-Memoirs-Ulysses-S-Grant-ebook/dp/B004FPYV9C/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=

Nice! Couldn't say no at that price.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 17, 2015, 09:16:33 PM
Nef - I'm going to be reading Ghost on a Throne very soon...post impressions!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on April 18, 2015, 01:05:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 17, 2015, 09:16:33 PM
Nef - I'm going to be reading Ghost on a Throne very soon...post impressions!

Will do.

I was only in the middle of the second chapter when struck down by illness, so I've not been doing much of anything the last day and a half.  Curses!

Being vaguely familiar with all the murderous craziness which happened for years after Alexander's death, the subject matter is ripe for the telling.  Just wondering how well the telling is done here.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 19, 2015, 03:14:43 PM
^Feel better.

Ghost on the Throne has had some very good reviews on Amazon for years, FWIW.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 20, 2015, 08:20:41 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on April 15, 2015, 09:16:27 PM
Halfway through 'when Christ and his saints slept'

I'm so ready for total war medieval 3

Didn't you get The Eye of the World a little while back? Can't quite recall, someone did who hadn't read WoT yet, and we were curious what you/he would think about it...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 20, 2015, 08:23:36 AM
Finished Unheralded Victory and The Ten Thousand Day War, which I read more-or-less in tandem. If I could clone myself temporarily I'd put one clone to work synthesizing the several Vietnam books I own into one coherent account, since those two books each exemplify ignoring data to follow a thesis.  :P (And yet are still good books, as are all of the several I own.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on April 20, 2015, 08:52:54 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 20, 2015, 08:20:41 AM
Quote from: undercovergeek on April 15, 2015, 09:16:27 PM
Halfway through 'when Christ and his saints slept'

I'm so ready for total war medieval 3

Didn't you get The Eye of the World a little while back? Can't quite recall, someone did who hadn't read WoT yet, and we were curious what you/he would think about it...

that was me, i have arc light next to the bed, 'saints' in the downstairs toilet, and malice in the upstairs toilet

thats not a bowel complaint, its the name of the book

EotW is next
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 20, 2015, 05:51:27 PM
How's Malice? I have that on my shelf as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on April 20, 2015, 06:13:23 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 20, 2015, 05:51:27 PM
How's Malice? I have that on my shelf as well.

Brilliant so far but don't want to let spoilers out
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 20, 2015, 06:31:12 PM
I bet you say that to all the girls. Can you compare Malice to The Red Knight?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 21, 2015, 07:07:29 AM
Finally started Ian Kershaw's The End - The Destruction of Hitler's Germany.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 22, 2015, 10:37:04 PM
I friggin' love used book stores.  Honestly, I can just lose myself in a used book store for hours.

I went there today and picked up 4 books, each for about $10:

The Tolkien Companion by Tyler
Hearts Touched by Fire by McPherson and Holzer
Before Antietam by Priest
Return to Bull Run by Hennessey

I swear, I could have cleaned out their Civil War section, just amazing old books there. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 23, 2015, 05:36:43 AM
Then you'd love this place..

http://www.barterbooks.co.uk/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 23, 2015, 12:54:13 PM
^ Man that place is epic!   :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 23, 2015, 01:00:48 PM
I Google searched the store and found some pictures.  Bookends in Kailua:

(https://pp3.walk.sc/t342/production/55994_bookends_in_kailua_honolulu.jpg)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs3-media2.fl.yelpassets.com%2Fbphoto%2FAwaN0rgBqL2dORNLsRlO1Q%2Fo.jpg&hash=6b92c269e9a7097272a011fd8914e1669ca300a9)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs3-media1.fl.yelpassets.com%2Fbphoto%2F2Ps0lGa5ISp33c3Y30UIsQ%2Fl.jpg&hash=9501a87aa3b7a8fb71d2b11d5201eb93fe6f0539)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs3-media2.fl.yelpassets.com%2Fbphoto%2FCodsZeYJYnMDgzxRaXsQ0w%2Fo.jpg&hash=5c7dabc195e7e80523053de3559aaad66b6fe08b)

Not nearly as cool as that train bookstore, but still, a full-on treasure trove of used books and treasures to be found!  I even found some 2nd edition AD&D stuff mixed in with a Hemmingway book, and a book on heavy weather sailing!

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ulfang on April 25, 2015, 08:53:59 AM
Trinity (second of the War of the Roses series) by Conn Iggulden
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on April 25, 2015, 09:41:05 AM
Quote from: bob48 on April 23, 2015, 05:36:43 AM
Then you'd love this place..

http://www.barterbooks.co.uk/

Awesome!!  Thanks for sharing that.  I agree with Toonces that place is indeed epic.  I have to add Barterbooks to my bucket list.   O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 25, 2015, 09:55:37 AM
Its a super place, and not many miles from where I live. Spent many a happy hour in there, I can tell you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 29, 2015, 12:02:20 PM
Finally finished McCullough's biography on John Adams today.  As expected, it was very well-written.  I (sadly) struggle to get through non-fiction works most of the time, so the fact that I was able to not only read the whole thing but enjoy it as well is a pretty monumental achievement in my book. 

Next up is my annual reading of Steven Pressfield's Tides of War.  I was playing a little of my Athens campaign in Rome II: Wrath of Sparta yesterday, so I'm definitely in the mood for it.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 29, 2015, 08:09:09 PM
^How is Tides of War?

You should now also watch the John Adams series from HBO. I actually have it on disc if you would like to borrow it...I could ship it to you. It's great.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 29, 2015, 08:20:51 PM
Agreed, John Adams is a great book and a really good series.

I'm currently reading Catastrophe 1914, about the first few months of WWI. Epic. I had no idea the first months of the war were also the bloodiest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 29, 2015, 09:06:59 PM
They were? That doesn't sound right. Especially compared to Verdun, the battles of the on the Eastern Front...the Somme.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 30, 2015, 06:26:32 AM
In terms of intensity, number of soldiers killed per day, apparently the later battles don't come close. It makes sense, all the armies were still attacking in dense columns with little tactical nuance.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 30, 2015, 08:48:51 AM
Ok...per day and intensity, but not total casualty numbers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 30, 2015, 08:58:08 AM
Max Hastings said it! Not me!  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 30, 2015, 09:02:17 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on April 29, 2015, 08:20:51 PM
I'm currently reading Catastrophe 1914, about the first few months of WWI. Epic. I had no idea the first months of the war were also the bloodiest.

Great read. I really enjoy Hastings' work.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 30, 2015, 12:53:20 PM
I love me some Great War reading...been looking to get Catastrophe 1914 for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on April 30, 2015, 04:19:04 PM
I'm really enjoying it. Actually bought it as an audiobook to listen to while I run.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 30, 2015, 06:42:18 PM
What kind of new ideas does it bring to Great War study?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 01, 2015, 04:13:06 PM
Nothing earth-shattering. He says the point of the book is to try to blend the political, social, and military narratives of the lead-up to the war and the first few months. I think he does it pretty well.

He does make the case that Austria was responsible for starting the war, and that once Austria started it Germany was the only country that could have stopped it. Ergo, Germany and Austria bear responsibility for what followed, which as I'm sure you know is somewhat of a break with previous historiography of the conflict.

He focuses a lot on how minor the BEF's contribution was to the initial weeks of fighting compared to all the continental armies and how poor their high level leadership was.

He also argues that even though Joffre made huge bloody mistakes in the opening weeks of the war, he was actually the only senior commander of any of the belligerents who kept his head through the entire initial campaign, and the victory of the Marne truly belongs to him.

Anyway, that's what I've got so far. About half way through.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 01, 2015, 04:36:45 PM
Considering that Russia backed Serbia to stand against Austria, the next potential stop to the war would have been Russia I think, not Germany per se. Without their support, the Serbs would have been forced to the negotiation table.

(Admittedly I'm speaking from my mediocre experience of reading about WW1 and watching docs, and from my vast experience of refusing to back the Serbs as Russia one time while playing Darkest Hour. ;) )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 01, 2015, 04:51:43 PM
Meanwhile, the epic Harry Potter fanfiction known as Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality finally concluded (with a probable epilogue to be released much later) in late March, though I only found out now during a scheduled check on its progress. I had been holding back from catching up on the latest chapters last year, so now I'm prepping to start over from scratch and zip through the whole thing again to the end so I have some possibility of keeping plot hints in mind as I round the corner into the final stretch.

The whole thing can be downloaded as one massive pdf (with book-like formatting, a cover theme, etc), or as a set of pdf 'books' (seven to match the original series, with somewhat similar names, all clocking around 400 pages), or in some mobi and epub formats, here at the HPMOR site (http://hpmor.com/). (Also features links to the original Reddit texts plus author commentary along the way, mostly missing in the pdfs so far.)

Those who like me love it but didn't know it's finished yet, will rejoice.

Those who love the HP movies and/or books (I've only watched the series, and 'like' it more than love it), will probably love this, too.

Those who hate the HP movies and/or books, might actually like this. All the basic stuff is there (and tons of minor details from the original series), but it's written MUCH more cleverly, by someone who's more of a geek than JK Rowling, and even a grog in his own way. (A majorly huge subplot of the book involves a professor deciding to promote tactical wargame skirmishes between factions in each year, so we get sparring fights with HP-world magic by kids who love Warhammer, rather than quidditch matches, though I think those are still going on -- just not important to the plot in any way.)

Instead of the series spanning seven years of school through to graduation, it only spans one year (and maybe the following summer, not sure). So in book/film terms the whole thing takes place during Harry Potter and the Philosopher's / Sorcerer's Stone. But because of the basic concept, the plot moves along a lot faster for the time spent: the Voldemort problem is all resolved that first year. (To be fair, even in the first book it was basically all resolved; there was no reason or way really for him to come back for more books. ;) )

The basic concept for those who don't know, could be called this: what if the vast majority of the characters were mostly refusing to hold (what story tropers call) the Idiot Ball (http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/IdiotBall) (even when at first they seem to be doing so)? -- and as a more specific example, what if Harry Potter's aunt had married a loving scientist, and so Harry was raised from a baby to maximize his potential before going to Hogwarts?

Another big change related to be basic concept: what if Voldy didn't have a stupid way of making himself immortal, and was farrr more subtle about dealing with the world?

No kidding: this ginormous novel (or novel-set) is like cheescake for geeks, especially sciency geeks.  :smitten: :smitten: :smitten: :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 01, 2015, 08:04:13 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on May 01, 2015, 04:36:45 PM
Considering that Russia backed Serbia to stand against Austria, the next potential stop to the war would have been Russia I think, not Germany per se. Without their support, the Serbs would have been forced to the negotiation table.

(Admittedly I'm speaking from my mediocre experience of reading about WW1 and watching docs, and from my vast experience of refusing to back the Serbs as Russia one time while playing Darkest Hour. ;) )

Hastings argues that Russia was acting well within their rights and within international norms by ensuring the independence of a smaller nation against a larger one, much as Britain did with Belgium. Russian had mobilized their army a few years previously for a similar incident but hadn't gone to war, so Hastings says that the Russian decision to mobilize cannot be taken as a casus beli. Germany by contrast acted well outside of international norms by giving Austria the "blank check" to go after Serbia, and by basically having the attitude that they wanted to fight the Russians now rather than later. I found it pretty convincing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 01, 2015, 08:20:29 PM
I agree with what Hastings says about Germany and Austria-Hungary being at fault for WWI. Austria-Hungary was hell-bent on punishing and making an example of Serbia, with back room support from Germany. Things would have turned out very different if Germany didn't violate Belgium too...which I am sure anyone reading this knows.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 02, 2015, 12:59:19 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 29, 2015, 08:09:09 PM
^How is Tides of War?
Well it's one of those books I make a point of reading once a year, so you might say I'm rather fond of it.  ;) 


My glib response aside, however, Tides of War truly is magnificent.  It brings the Peloponnesian War (probably my favorite period in ancient Greek history) to life in a way that probably no other book (fiction or non-) ever has for me.  It's a glorious tragedy, exploring not just the character of the historical Alcibiades (from the perspective of a longtime friend/acquaintance), but of Athens itself as well.  The novel expounds a fair bit on the great promise and potential of Athenian democracy, but how instead the city generally squandered it -- how more often than not it was its own worst enemy, inflicting far greater damage on itself than Sparta and all its allies combined ever managed over 27 years of destructive conflict...on a scale not seen even during the Persian Wars from a half-century earlier. 

While Pressfield is probably best-known for Gates of Fire (a fictional, but well-researched, novel covering the 300 Spartans and the Battle of Thermopylae) -- and very deservedly so, Tides remains my personal favorite work by him.  If you have any interest in an epic tale covering the Peloponnesian War, or even just ancient Greek history in general, then this is absolutely one to pick up. 




Quote from: Gusington on April 29, 2015, 08:09:09 PM
You should now also watch the John Adams series from HBO. I actually have it on disc if you would like to borrow it...I could ship it to you. It's great.
Thank you Gus, that's very generous of you.  I'm probably going to defer on your kind offer for the moment, as I'm likely moving in the next month (not far, just to the next town over) and wouldn't wish to risk losing/misplacing your discs in the process.  Once I'm settled in at my new place, however, I may very well take you up on it.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 02, 2015, 12:35:37 PM
^Cool man - let me know.

Don't take this the wrong way but last night I actually had a Peloponnesian War...going to Amazon to find a good copy of Tides of War and then maybe to Steam for the R2 Spartans expansion.

Not sure what is wrong with me :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 02, 2015, 12:57:42 PM
Sweet!  If you enjoy it even half as much as I do, it'll be money well-spent.  O0 



Quote from: Gusington on May 02, 2015, 12:35:37 PM
Not sure what is wrong with me :)
No more than the rest of us, my friend.  We are all here demented.  :P 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 02, 2015, 04:38:35 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on May 01, 2015, 08:04:13 PM
Hastings argues that Russia was acting well within their rights and within international norms by ensuring the independence of a smaller nation against a larger one, much as Britain did with Belgium. Russian had mobilized their army a few years previously for a similar incident but hadn't gone to war, so Hastings says that the Russian decision to mobilize cannot be taken as a casus beli.

The question isn't whether they were acting well within their rights and international norms. The academic question is whether they could have put a stop to the treaty of dominoes by choosing to do something different, seeing as how they were next in the domino line, not Germany.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 02, 2015, 05:14:24 PM
Tides of War is available for .01...even if it's terrible it's kind of worth it :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 03, 2015, 02:42:40 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 02, 2015, 05:14:24 PM
Tides of War is available for .01...even if it's terrible it's kind of worth it :)
Ha.  Yeah, definitely at that price! 


(Oh, and a word to the wise if at any point you do end up getting the Sparta DLC for Rome II:  If you fire up an Athenian campaign, for gods' sake, start on Easy difficulty!  Athens is definitely a...challenge. :knuppel2: ) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 03, 2015, 09:22:01 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on May 02, 2015, 04:38:35 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on May 01, 2015, 08:04:13 PM
Hastings argues that Russia was acting well within their rights and within international norms by ensuring the independence of a smaller nation against a larger one, much as Britain did with Belgium. Russian had mobilized their army a few years previously for a similar incident but hadn't gone to war, so Hastings says that the Russian decision to mobilize cannot be taken as a casus beli.

The question isn't whether they were acting well within their rights and international norms. The academic question is whether they could have put a stop to the treaty of dominoes by choosing to do something different, seeing as how they were next in the domino line, not Germany.

I disagree, I think someone brought this up in another thread, maybe airboy, when we were discussing Guns of August. One General, Moltke iirc, lied to his leader when he was asked for a plan to fight Russia. The plans were already drawn up in a safe, he could have done as asked. Instead he was determined to use the Shliefen plan, which Guaranteed bringing France and the UK into the war. If Germany had fought Russia alone they might have pushed Russia out of Europe.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 03, 2015, 03:23:30 PM
You read my mind, Martok. I was looking into the Rome 2: Wrath of Sparta campaign yesterday while posting here but it's pricey @ 15.00 and the reviews are mediocre. What do you think of it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 03, 2015, 06:36:27 PM
I'm going to need to re-read Tides of War. I wasn't overly impressed the first time I read it but I was much younger and didn't know anything about the Peloponnesian War. I suspect I will enjoy it much more today.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 03, 2015, 07:53:22 PM
^Have you read Donald Kagan's history? I am not even into the era much but I enjoyed that book. Made me interested to read more.

Pressfield has mixed reviews everywhere - some people love his work and some people do not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 03, 2015, 07:58:28 PM
Reading David Brooks The Road to Character.
Yet another fine work from him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 03, 2015, 08:14:18 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 03, 2015, 07:53:22 PM
^Have you read Donald Kagan's history? I am not even into the era much but I enjoyed that book. Made me interested to read more.

Pressfield has mixed reviews everywhere - some people love his work and some people do not.

Yes, read that one when I was deployed a couple years ago. Enjoyed it, but I read it right after a really well-written history of Cortez's conquest of the Aztecs that kind of over-shadowed it for me. I think that book was very creatively named Cortez or something, but I can't for the life of me remember right now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 04, 2015, 07:00:05 AM
If not Cortez, maybe Conquest :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 04, 2015, 07:11:24 AM
Conqusitador by Buddy Levy, that was the name. Thanks for the mental assist! Great book. If the story weren't so politically incorrect today it would make an epic movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 04, 2015, 02:55:30 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 03, 2015, 09:22:01 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on May 02, 2015, 04:38:35 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on May 01, 2015, 08:04:13 PM
Hastings argues that Russia was acting well within their rights and within international norms by ensuring the independence of a smaller nation against a larger one, much as Britain did with Belgium. Russian had mobilized their army a few years previously for a similar incident but hadn't gone to war, so Hastings says that the Russian decision to mobilize cannot be taken as a casus beli.

The question isn't whether they were acting well within their rights and international norms. The academic question is whether they could have put a stop to the treaty of dominoes by choosing to do something different, seeing as how they were next in the domino line, not Germany.

I disagree, I think someone brought this up in another thread, maybe airboy, when we were discussing Guns of August. One General, Moltke iirc, lied to his leader when he was asked for a plan to fight Russia. The plans were already drawn up in a safe, he could have done as asked. Instead he was determined to use the Shliefen plan, which Guaranteed bringing France and the UK into the war. If Germany had fought Russia alone they might have pushed Russia out of Europe.

Isn't that still predicated on Russia having chosen to back Serbia vs Austria?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 04, 2015, 05:29:59 PM
Yes. It is not unusual for a great power to back a small one to keep another large power from getting too big. AR already mentioned this. It is the same thing now with many countries objecting to the dismemberment of Ukraine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 04, 2015, 11:07:42 PM
One of those random, serendipitous finds the internet occasionally yields.  A Serbian Chetnik in the Balkan Wars, as well as both World Wars.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kosta_Pe%C4%87anac
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 05, 2015, 05:56:52 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 03, 2015, 03:23:30 PM
You read my mind, Martok. I was looking into the Rome 2: Wrath of Sparta campaign yesterday while posting here but it's pricey @ 15.00 and the reviews are mediocre. What do you think of it?
The short version:  I like it.  However, you may wish to wait for a sale if you don't have a great interest in the period (which I do). 

I'll post my extended thoughts in the Rome II thread in a little bit here. 




Quote from: Airborne Rifles on May 03, 2015, 06:36:27 PM
I'm going to need to re-read Tides of War. I wasn't overly impressed the first time I read it but I was much younger and didn't know anything about the Peloponnesian War. I suspect I will enjoy it much more today.
Quote from: Gusington on May 03, 2015, 07:53:22 PM
Pressfield has mixed reviews everywhere - some people love his work and some people do not.
Well there's no question that Pressfield has a distinct writing style, and it's certainly not going to appeal to everyone. 

He does get a bit "meta" at times (both in his general narration and character dialogue), which I find drags down the pacing when he indulges in the practice.  In addition, there are times I find myself thinking to myself that he's made certain characters too much the "thinker/philosopher" and not enough of the "everyman" to be believable/relatable.  (However, the ideas they spout forth are usually sufficiently compelling that I find myself continuing to read with interest anyway.)  He also doesn't always narrate in a "straight line", sometimes bouncing back-and-forth in time before reaching the end/culmination/climax (although he mostly averts doing this in Tides of War).  I personally don't mind this device, as Pressfield is good at neatly tying thing together, but it's not hard to see where it might be irksome to others. 

As for Tides of War itself, yeah it probably is a little harder to appreciate if you don't have at least a general knowledge  of the Peloponnesian War's major events and broad strokes (including/especially Athens' calamitous invasion of Sicily, from which they never truly recovered).  I suspect the book also doesn't compare as favorably to Pressfield's Gates of Fire because unlike the latter, it truly *is* a tragedy -- Greeks fighting their fellow Greeks (rather than uniting to drive off Persians or some other "barbarian" invader), a "worldwide" conflict that hitherto transformed how war was fought in that society (and subsequently changed the society with it)...and perhaps most of all, a vibrant democracy that in many ways self-destructed from within.  While Sparta and its allies in the Peloponnesian (Dorian) League may have been the war's victors, Athens was almost certainly her own worst enemy throughout the conflict. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on May 10, 2015, 10:36:55 PM
Max Hastings' Catastrophe: Europe Goes to War 1914
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 11, 2015, 07:21:36 AM
Heard great things about that from some of the other guys.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on May 11, 2015, 08:15:53 AM
(https://www.awesomestories.com/images/user/c4bc6e1ab5.jpg)

and no it's not at all like that cheesy movie that came out a few years ago.  It's a book written in the early 70's which includes individual soldier stories as well as the general historical facts.  Well written in a style that is quite easy to read yet very informative. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 11, 2015, 02:28:08 PM
That statue on the cover has always creeped me out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on May 11, 2015, 02:35:34 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 11, 2015, 02:28:08 PM
That statue on the cover has always creeped me out.

Yes it is spooky isn't it?  I think this statue was in the opening credits of the movie "Cross of Iron" too if I'm not mistaken.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 11, 2015, 04:14:39 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 21, 2015, 07:07:29 AM
Finally started Ian Kershaw's The End - The Destruction of Hitler's Germany.

I recently started this as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 11, 2015, 07:58:53 PM
I'm about 75% through. A little thick in the middle but very well written. Kershaw has a new book coming out on Europe from 1914-1949 that I will definitely be reading.

That Stalingrad statue was also featured in the original video for Hurt by Nine Inch Nails...that basically solidified its melancholy and creep factor for me forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 11, 2015, 08:03:18 PM
I've read several 'Fall of the Reich' books in the past 5 or so years. Tough stuff to say the least. Kershaw's book was a lucky find. 50 cents for a gently used hardcover copy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 11, 2015, 08:11:43 PM
I don't even remember what I paid for mine, bought it years ago and it has been on my to-read shelf for a while. Happy to have finally got into it.

Also just bought Antony Beevor's The Fall of Berlin 1945...will probably read that this summer too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 11, 2015, 08:24:47 PM
Beevor is excellent. Give yourself a break between those Gotterdammerung type books. They're a bit of a downer ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 11, 2015, 08:58:25 PM
Yeah definitely. In between, the next book actually, is Japan 1941: Countdown to Infamy by Eri Hotta. After that, maybe, will be Pacific Crucible by Ian Toll.

Growing up I never did a lot of WWII reading because I had my grandparents and it felt more like current events than history. I'm now learning how much I didn't know, or wasn't told.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 11, 2015, 09:07:02 PM
Pacific Crucible is another gem that has a spot on my bookshelf.

I love reading history. I've been fascinated with WW2 since I was a kid. My Grandfather was in the Navy during the war. He had some amazing stories.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 11, 2015, 09:42:03 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 11, 2015, 08:58:25 PM
Yeah definitely. In between, the next book actually, is Japan 1941: Countdown to Infamy by Eri Hotta. After that, maybe, will be Pacific Crucible by Ian Toll.

Growing up I never did a lot of WWII reading because I had my grandparents and it felt more like current events than history. I'm now learning how much I didn't know, or wasn't told.

Hell, i plan on learning a bit of how much I dont know until i am kaput.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 12, 2015, 05:57:54 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 11, 2015, 09:07:02 PM
Pacific Crucible is another gem that has a spot on my bookshelf.

+1

Neptune's Inferno is great as well if you're looking to scratch an early Pacific War itch.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 12, 2015, 07:25:17 AM
Neptune's Inferno is also on my list. Before that though I have a short title on the development and deployment of the Me 262. May also pick up another couple of titles on German and Japanese experimental aircraft of the 1930s and 1940s...love that stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 12, 2015, 08:15:28 AM
I read Neptune's Inferno a couple months back. Loved it.

In addition to the Kershaw book, I am currently reading Eagle Against the Sun: The American War With Japan by Ronald Spector.  Another 50 cent bargain I picked up.

Reading the Pac War stuff makes me want to play Flat Top.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 12, 2015, 08:18:33 AM
Speaking of Ian Toll, Six Frigates is a great read also.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on May 12, 2015, 08:18:35 AM
Where do you guys find the time for all your reading?!? I'm a slow reader and currently have about 8 books stacked up on my night stand.  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 12, 2015, 08:23:32 AM
Quote from: Barthheart on May 12, 2015, 08:18:35 AM
Where do you guys find the time for all your reading?!? I'm a slow reader and currently have about 8 books stacked up on my night stand.  :P

I'm a terribly slow reader. I can read quickly out of necessity, but it kills the enjoyment for me.

I read pretty much every spare moment I get. Mostly later at night or early in the morning when things are relatively calm.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 12, 2015, 01:17:01 PM
Me too...very slow reader. I also read late at night, or sometimes while at practices that my daughters are at. I have about 40 titles I have collected over the years in queue, and that is down from a high of about 100!

When I commuted 2.5 hours each direction I would pack that time with more reading and tear through books. That was the only redeeming quality of commuting that far.

Have also had Six Frigates in my sights for a long time. I love naval history, which is ironic because I am almost phobic of the open ocean.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 12, 2015, 05:12:20 PM
These days when I say I "read" a book what I usually mean is that I listened to it while running or walking. I run about 25 miles a week and walk 30 minutes to work and back, so I burn through audiobooks at a pretty good clip. Three kids under 5 right now means I don't get much real "read" reading done.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 12, 2015, 05:30:15 PM
Just about to order off amazon,  'Ardennes 1944: Hitler's Last Gamble' by Antony Beevor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 12, 2015, 07:15:33 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on May 12, 2015, 05:12:20 PM
These days when I say I "read" a book what I usually mean is that I listened to it while running or walking. I run about 25 miles a week and walk 30 minutes to work and back, so I burn through audiobooks at a pretty good clip. Three kids under 5 right now means I don't get much real "read" reading done.

3 kids under 5. You have my sympathy, sir  :uglystupid2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 12, 2015, 08:24:13 PM
Goddamn AR you are a glutton for punishment in many ways.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on May 12, 2015, 10:04:32 PM
Finished Ghost On The Throne.

It had some good details of the initial chaos of the Diadochoi wars.  It's a good read. 

But at the same time, I expected the timeline to proceed further than it did; the book to be longer.  Felt like it ended only after the early years when most of Philip & Alexander's remaining family had been offed, but even the last of those were summarized as an afterthought in the very end.  Notably, it didn't get into the longer term Succession Wars at all, or even the initial settling of the dynasties, which I had hoped it would at least hit upon. 

Maybe I was expecting too much.  Nearly half the pages in the Kindle version are reference & clarification notes at the back.  Was a bit surprised when it ended, as it seemed to do so rather abruptly.  As if the author decided to stop writing at that point and end it ASAP.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 13, 2015, 08:26:14 AM
Thanks Nef. Since I have a lot less knowledge of the subject hopefully the abrupt cut off won't be as abrupt for me. Although even I expected Ghost on the Throne to cover the Succession Wars in detail.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on May 14, 2015, 12:03:06 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 13, 2015, 08:26:14 AM
Although even I expected Ghost on the Throne to cover the Succession Wars in detail.

It covers approximately the first decade after Alexander's death, after starting with some details on the situation just beforehand.  But the detailed info only lasts for about the first eight years then abruptly tapers off to a quick end. 

It was enlightening about that part, but never got into the empires & dynasties which emerged from it.  There was pretty much nothing about Ptolemy and Seleucus, for example. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2015, 06:55:54 AM
Any recommendations? There are a few titles on the Seleucids but they are pricey. Maybe a general volume on the Succession Wars? I know of one or two that have been around for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on May 14, 2015, 12:55:48 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 14, 2015, 06:55:54 AM
Any recommendations? There are a few titles on the Seleucids but they are pricey. Maybe a general volume on the Succession Wars? I know of one or two that have been around for a while.

Dunno.. I'd also like a good one covering the whole of the Succession Wars.

I know some of it is rather spotty regarding sources, as many things are from that period.  But I'd like one complete & chronological read on it, as quality as that might be.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 14, 2015, 02:35:03 PM
Just downloaded 'Collision of Empires; The War on the Eastern Front 1914'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 14, 2015, 02:37:28 PM
Finished up Tides of War while eating my lunch this morning at work.  I seriously I think I appreciate it more every time I read it. 

Am now waiting for the library system to let me know that Guy Gavriel Kay's Lions of Al-Rassan has come in.  (Of course my local branch didn't have a copy -- poop. :( )  Will plow through some old Star Trek "dime" novels for filler til it arrives... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2015, 06:47:54 PM
Collision of Empires is one I've been looking to get for a long time too, Bawb. Let us know what you think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2015, 07:34:08 PM
Did a quick search for Succession Wars and Diodochi Wars on Amazon and found this little gem - not quite what I was looking for but pretty interesting looking:

http://www.amazon.com/War-Elephants-John-M-Kistler/dp/0803260040/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1431649971&sr=1-2&keywords=Diadochi+Wars
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 15, 2015, 01:54:22 AM
You are in for a treat, Martok.  I can't wait to hear your impressions when you're done!   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on May 15, 2015, 03:18:12 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 14, 2015, 07:34:08 PM
Did a quick search for Succession Wars and Diodochi Wars on Amazon and found this little gem - not quite what I was looking for but pretty interesting looking:

http://www.amazon.com/War-Elephants-John-M-Kistler/dp/0803260040/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1431649971&sr=1-2&keywords=Diadochi+Wars

I compare any successes of ancient war elephants to that of the Spartans.  It was as much (or more) due to the imposing reputation and intimidation of their opponents.  In both cases, their opposition often wavered before contact was ever made.   But when opposed with a good steadfast defense, they could be beaten. 

Alexander figured out how to counter war elephants in no time, for example, but he and his generals adopted their use after seeing the potential as both a terror weapon and badge of prestige.  Their elephants were always given positions of importance/rank within the army, such as being located closer to the royal tents in camp than most of the army.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 15, 2015, 05:38:40 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 14, 2015, 06:47:54 PM
Collision of Empires is one I've been looking to get for a long time too, Bawb. Let us know what you think.

Will do, Gus. I've only just started it, so I'll let you know.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 15, 2015, 07:08:54 AM
Thank you Bawb...you are a scholar-gentleman and a great mustache farmer.

Nef I just dig war elephants because of the kewl armor :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 15, 2015, 08:54:52 AM
You secretly think, if you had an appendage like that, all the women would love you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 15, 2015, 08:57:10 AM
Correct but it's no secret.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 15, 2015, 10:38:21 AM
Quote from: Toonces on May 15, 2015, 01:54:22 AM
You are in for a treat, Martok.  I can't wait to hear your impressions when you're done!   :)
Yeah, I'm really looking forward to it.  I'm bummed that I won't have it to bring with me this weekend, but I suppose I shall manage to suffer through.  ;) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 17, 2015, 06:15:48 PM
Finished The End by Kershaw...great book. It will stick with me for a long time.

Just began The Rise and Fall of Imperial Japan edited by S.L. Mayer. The copy I have is 30+ years old and I bartered for it with an old forumer named Braz24 (Jeff) years ago. Not sure if he came over here in the migration.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 18, 2015, 06:11:44 PM
^ Heh.  The dude that gave me his dog when he left also gave me a copy of that book..  I'm looking at it on my bookshelf right now.  I haven't read it yet, though, but it looks like a good book.  Lots of pictures.   O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 18, 2015, 07:42:55 PM
The copy he gave me is 30+ years old and the captions to the images are in like 2-point font. The writing is very good, though. And most of the images I have never seen before. No dog found yet, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 18, 2015, 09:34:02 PM
I've read Beevor's 'The Fall of Berlin 1945' and Ryan's 'The Last Battle' - Gus, have you read either of those? How good is 'The End' compared to those two? I hate to read yet another book about the Battle of Berlin unless it brings something different to the table.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 19, 2015, 05:01:58 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 15, 2015, 07:08:54 AM
Thank you Bawb...you are a scholar-gentleman and a great mustache farmer.

Nef I just dig war elephants because of the kewl armor :)

I'm well into this now Gussy, and I highly recommend it. Very informative and interesting. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 19, 2015, 06:04:16 AM
Lions of Al-Rassan still hasn't arrived at my library yet (grr), so I've started re-reading I, Jedi by Michael Stackpole.  Easily my favorite standalone novel in the Star Wars EU. 


On deck (if Lions doesn't get here in time):  Have borrowed World War Z from a friend.  I've never been into zombies and probably never will, but I've been mildly intrigued by this one for a while now. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 19, 2015, 06:31:50 AM
Quote from: Martok on May 19, 2015, 06:04:16 AM

On deck (if Lions doesn't get here in time):  Have borrowed World War Z from a friend.  I've never been into zombies and probably never will, but I've been mildly intrigued by this one for a while now.

You're in for a treat. I'm not really into the zombie genre, but I loved this book. Read it twice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 19, 2015, 07:56:06 AM
Thanks Bawb, will put Collision into my shopping cart and I'll tell them you sent me.

BC - The End is the first book I've read about the end of WWII in Europe. Got Beevor's Battle for Berlin on my night stand.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 19, 2015, 08:08:59 AM
The Last 100 Days is another good one - I forgot to list it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 19, 2015, 09:14:36 AM
Armageddon: The Battle for Germany, 1944-1945 by Max Hastings is also excellent.  Hastings is probably my favorite historian currently writing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 19, 2015, 02:34:48 PM
World War Z is fantastic and a pretty quick read.  Highly recommended!   O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 19, 2015, 03:38:15 PM
I'm probably the only person here who didn't care for World War Z.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 19, 2015, 03:44:30 PM
Quote from: Martok on May 19, 2015, 06:04:16 AM
Lions of Al-Rassan still hasn't arrived at my library yet (grr), so I've started re-reading I, Jedi by Michael Stackpole.  Easily my favorite standalone novel in the Star Wars EU. 


On deck (if Lions doesn't get here in time):  Have borrowed World War Z from a friend.  I've never been into zombies and probably never will, but I've been mildly intrigued by this one for a while now.

I bought I, Jedi a few weeks back and now you're making me want to read it sooner rather than later.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 20, 2015, 02:04:44 PM
Quote from: Toonces on May 19, 2015, 02:34:48 PM
World War Z is fantastic and a pretty quick read.  Highly recommended!   O0
Quote from: mirth on May 19, 2015, 03:38:15 PM
I'm probably the only person here who didn't care for World War Z.
I seem to recall reactions in general were somewhat mixed -- more so to the movie (not surprisingly), but even the book had its detractors (not just you mirth).  Still, I remain curious, and am at least cautiously looking forward to it.  Keeping my fingers crossed! 




Quote from: bbmike on May 19, 2015, 03:44:30 PM
Quote from: Martok on May 19, 2015, 06:04:16 AM
Lions of Al-Rassan still hasn't arrived at my library yet (grr), so I've started re-reading I, Jedi by Michael Stackpole.  Easily my favorite standalone novel in the Star Wars EU. 


On deck (if Lions doesn't get here in time):  Have borrowed World War Z from a friend.  I've never been into zombies and probably never will, but I've been mildly intrigued by this one for a while now.

I bought I, Jedi a few weeks back and now you're making me want to read it sooner rather than later.
You're welcome.  >:D 

One thing I will say:  If you haven't already, I recommend reading the Jedi Academy trilogy and (especially) the first four X-Wing novels (which, like I, Jedi, were also written by Stackpole) first.  The former establishes much of the general backdrop for the main part of the story, while the latter acquaints you with the main character.  They're not absolutely required reading, but I found it greatly helped me have a full understanding/appreciation of the book and the characters in it (the X-Wing books in particular). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 20, 2015, 08:21:26 PM
I liked WWZ (book) and enjoyed the movie too. I went into it knowing the two were very different.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 24, 2015, 03:35:28 PM
What a great title:

History's Most Insane Rulers: Lunatics, Eccentrics, and Megalomaniacs From Emperor Caligula to Kim Jong Il
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 25, 2015, 06:38:07 PM
Superstorm: Nine Days Inside Hurricane Sandy

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 25, 2015, 08:45:18 PM
Just started Japan 1941 by Eri Hotta.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on May 27, 2015, 11:18:21 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 25, 2015, 06:38:07 PM
Superstorm: Nine Days Inside My Girlfriend Sandy

ftfy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 27, 2015, 12:05:45 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on May 27, 2015, 11:18:21 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 25, 2015, 06:38:07 PM
Superstorm: Nine Days Inside My Girlfriend Sandy

ftfy

Was that her name, Star? Sandy?  ^-^
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 27, 2015, 02:37:34 PM
Lions of al-Rassan finally arrived at my library (about freakin' time! grr...).  It will have to wait, however, as I'd already started World War Z yesterday.  I'll admit to enjoying it so far. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2015, 06:20:23 PM
^I did too.

Is the lady in question named Sandy Vagina? Is she irritating?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 27, 2015, 08:14:31 PM
Really rubs you raw?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 28, 2015, 10:12:35 PM

Building: 3,000 Years of Design, Engineering, and Construction Paperback – May 25 2015


I had pre-ordered this, it arrived a couple days ago. I recommend it to Starfury and anybody else interested in the history of our built world.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on May 29, 2015, 06:42:37 PM
Maybe these books have been mentioned , so I apologize if I'm repeating what's been said  :-\

Last year I read the coolest four books ever . The author is Brandon Sanderson and the series is called mistborn .
Book one - final empire , mistborn
Book two - the well of ascension
Book three-the hero of ages
Book four -the alloy of law : mistborn

I promise they are not girly books !!  They are set in a fantasy world and some of the people there have developed special skills called "coin shots" , they basically swallow different metals and burn them , and each metal gives them a special power , like seeing a situation in slow motion makes them able to fight there way out of trouble . It deals with the collapse of one over all ruler like a dictatorship , to a more conventional government with a king .
I started reading them on holiday , and spent most of my time "trying" to turn my kindle on my iPad off to get on with my holiday , and mostly failing !!   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 29, 2015, 07:10:33 PM
Sanderson had the odious task of finishing that most repetitive and vile series The Eye of the World.  I felt sorry for him.  I heard he did well though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on May 29, 2015, 07:17:54 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 29, 2015, 07:10:33 PM
Sanderson had the odious task of finishing that most repetitive and vile series The Eye of the World.  I felt sorry for him.  I heard he did well though.

Haha , I've only so far read those four Sanderson books , so I'm not clued up on "the eye of the world"

He's a good writer though , so I'm gonna take your word for it that the guy did good  :coolsmiley:

Did you attempt to read that series and it put you off him as an author ?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 29, 2015, 07:23:15 PM
Robert Jordan wrote most of the Eye of the World stuff and died before he finished it.  Sanderson came in and finished it from Jordan's outlines and story ideas.  I just found that Jordan must have felt like he was getting paid by the word.  If he could describe something in 20 words, he would use 19 chapters to do it.  It got tedious QUICK!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on May 29, 2015, 07:43:14 PM

Understood !! Say no more . I don't think realistically that's ever going to work drafting in another writer to finish off what was ultimately in the other guys head . It's kind of like "CGI" gone wrong , imagine if after Heath ledger died they tried to "CGI"  in a completely different actor ....we'd be like huh ?

Like you say MD , I hate books that don't keep the narrative flowing ...tedium is natures way of telling you something's cr*p and you need to move on !  ;D

Sounds like the publishing company just wanted to get the cash in anyway possible ...go figure ! I'm shocked and dismayed an author I like put his name to it  :knuppel2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 29, 2015, 07:52:10 PM
Well, there are a couple of fellows here who happen to think that Eye of the World is pretty good.  They acknowledge that there are some slow bits, but, overall, it was good and Sanderson did an admirable job filling in.  I don't subscribe to that theory.  So there's that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on May 29, 2015, 08:08:25 PM

Each to there own I suppose . But I'm with you and I'm sticking to my guns !!  Realistically I should try to read it to see for myself ...will I ...probably not   :) although I like his writing style so I may do , I dunno , I'm a female , I'm indecisive !!  :D



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on May 29, 2015, 08:56:14 PM
Been planning to read Dan Simmons' (now classic) Hyperion Cantos (http://www.amazon.com/Hyperion-Cantos-4-Book-Bundle-Endymion-ebook/dp/B00JTZF124/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1432949819&sr=1-3&keywords=hyperion+cantos) again very soon.  Was hoping to find the whole set a bit cheaper, or maybe even in real book form (lost/loaned mine long ago) so I've been on the prowl.


Been quite awhile since I last read the series but it was some pretty amazing stuff.

This was the other modern series I wanted to see translated into a high quality movie series years ago, along with Game Of Thrones.  The latter is obviously being done now, but the Hyperion series would probably be even more costly & difficult to do with such a wide range of sci-fi scenes and prose to translate.  So I don't expect to see a decent treatment of it on film anytime soon, despite some rumored attempts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 29, 2015, 09:15:23 PM
I can only imagine what it would take to bring Simmons' Ilium/Olympos books to the silver screen. Those things cover an astounding number of locales that vary between benthic environs with derelict sunken Caliphate submarines (equipped with micro-singularity warhead missiles) to an entire robot civilization that bootstrapped itself into existence from asteroid mining equipment.

And then there is the inclusion of Shakespeare's 'the Tempest' and the famous seafarer and adventurer Odysseus starting a resistance movement among the idle rich in a future false utopia...

Whew!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 30, 2015, 06:25:58 AM
I'm now 75% through 'Collision of Empires' and really enjoying it. Next up will be a re-read of all the Patrick O'Brian books. This is what happens when you talk to panzerde on Steam at stupid o-clock in the morning............
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 30, 2015, 07:22:45 AM
Quote from: Emeraldlis on May 29, 2015, 06:42:37 PM
Maybe these books have been mentioned , so I apologize if I'm repeating what's been said  :-\

Last year I read the coolest four books ever . The author is Brandon Sanderson and the series is called mistborn .
Book one - final empire , mistborn
Book two - the well of ascension
Book three-the hero of ages
Book four -the alloy of law : mistborn

I promise they are not girly books !!  They are set in a fantasy world and some of the people there have developed special skills called "coin shots" , they basically swallow different metals and burn them , and each metal gives them a special power , like seeing a situation in slow motion makes them able to fight there way out of trouble . It deals with the collapse of one over all ruler like a dictatorship , to a more conventional government with a king .
I started reading them on holiday , and spent most of my time "trying" to turn my kindle on my iPad off to get on with my holiday , and mostly failing !!   :)
I've lavished praise on Sanderson's Mistborn novels earlier on in this thread as well.  I do feel he has a general problem with pacing in most of his books, but there's nothing wrong with his overall storytelling abilities.  I definitely like him as an author. 




Quote from: MetalDog on May 29, 2015, 07:52:10 PM
Well, there are a couple of fellows here who happen to think that Eye of the World is pretty good.  They acknowledge that there are some slow bits, but, overall, it was good and Sanderson did an admirable job filling in.  I don't subscribe to that theory.  So there's that.
It's The Wheel of Time series, you benighted cretin (of which The Eye of the World was merely the first book).  Get it right!  (Also, you didn't even get far enough into the series to read the Sanderson-authored novels, so it's not like you'd know.)  :P 


As you may have already surmised, Emeraldlis, I'm one of the fellows here MD is referring to who's an aficionado of the WoT novels.  :)  The series obviously isn't for everyone, but for those who are fans of the fantasy genre, I do recommend at least reading the first couple books (Eye of the World and The Great Hunt) to see if they like it. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 30, 2015, 07:50:01 AM
You are correct, Martok.  I should have known better and called it by its proper name, A Sorry Excuse For Destroying Trees, or What I Looked Like Before I Became Toilet Paper. ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on May 30, 2015, 09:11:16 AM
Quote from: Martok link=topic=564.msg357772#msg357772

I've lavished praise on Sanderson's
i]Mistborn[/i] novels earlier on in this thread as well.  I do feel he has a general problem with pacing in most of his books, but there's nothing wrong with his overall storytelling abilities.  I definitely like him as an author.


Quote from: MetalDog on May 29, 2015, 07:52:10 PM
Well, there are a couple of fellows here who happen to think that Eye of the World is pretty good.  They acknowledge that there are some slow bits, but, overall, it was good and Sanderson did an admirable job filling in.  I don't subscribe to that theory.  So there's that.
It's The Wheel of Time series, you benighted cretin (of which The Eye of the World was merely the first book).  Get it right!  (Also, you didn't even get far enough into the series to read the Sanderson-authored novels, so it's not like you'd know.)  :P 


As you may have already surmised, Emeraldlis, I'm one of the fellows here MD is referring to who's an aficionado of the WoT novels.  :)  The series obviously isn't for everyone, but for those who are fans of the fantasy genre, I do recommend at least reading the first couple books (Eye of the World and The Great Hunt) to see if they like it.

It's great to meet a fellow fan of Sanderson , Martok . I'm sorry I re-covered  your topic , but there's over 600 pages in this thread !! Phew....that's a novel in itself   :o  I'm always on the look out for my next book to read though , and recommends are the best , so I'm sure I'll get around to reading all those pages eventually :)

Oops MD you got called out  :tickedoff: !!


Ok Martok in the spirit of fair play and all , I'll give that series a go :) I do love his take on story telling and I thought mistborn was a really good concept , so I'm intrested to know if this series grabs me . If it doesn't though ..well , I discovered your fear of spiders somewhere around here , I'll just have to join up with MD and see what arachnids can be thrown in your general direction   :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on May 30, 2015, 09:18:21 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 30, 2015, 07:50:01 AM
You are correct, Martok.  I should have known better and called it by its proper name, A Sorry Excuse For Destroying Trees, or What I Looked Like Before I Became Toilet Paper. ;)

THAT was a great come back , lol ,  ;D time will tell if I find myself agreeing with your sentiments  ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 30, 2015, 09:45:15 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 30, 2015, 07:50:01 AM
You are correct, Martok.  I should have known better and called it by its proper name, A Sorry Excuse For Destroying Trees, or What I Looked Like Before I Became Toilet Paper. ;)
Ouch!  Normally I'd threaten to sic Bawb on you for that, but admittedly I probably deserve that for the "benighted cretin" comment.  :D 




Quote from: Emeraldlis on May 30, 2015, 09:11:16 AM
It's great to meet a fellow fan of Sanderson , Martok . I'm sorry I re-covered  your topic , but there's over 600 pages in this thread !! Phew....that's a novel in itself   :o  I'm always on the look out for my next book to read though , and recommends are the best , so I'm sure I'll get around to reading all those pages eventually :)
Oh, no apologies necessary at all.  Due to the length of the thread, sheer Law of Averages dictates that various works (both fiction and non-) get mentioned on repeated occasions.  No one's expected to go back and dig through all that! 



Quote from: Emeraldlis on May 30, 2015, 09:11:16 AM
Ok Martok in the spirit of fair play and all , I'll give that series a go :) I do love his take on story telling and I thought mistborn was a really good concept , so I'm intrested to know if this series grabs me .
Cool!  I hope you'll enjoy it...and if it turns out you don't, I'll certainly understand.  ;) 

Just bear in mind that Robert Jordan wrote the first 11 (out of 14) books in the WoT series, so the writing style is different through the early & middle parts of the series.  Sanderson only wrote the final three novels (with the assistance of Jordan's widow, and using his notes as a guide). 

Also, a number of people find the first novel (The Eye of the World) difficult to get through, which is why I typically recommend reading the second book (The Great Hunt) as well.  I know of at least a few folks who weren't enthused with the first book, but then got hooked onto the series with the second one.  (FWIW, I personally never had this problem, but different strokes for different folks.) 



Quote from: Emeraldlis on May 30, 2015, 09:11:16 AM
If it doesn't though ..well , I discovered your fear of spiders somewhere around here , I'll just have to join up with MD and see what arachnids can be thrown in your general direction   :2funny:

Well you're welcome to try.  O:-)  While I'm by no means over my phobia, hanging around these guys the last few years has made somewhat...inured to the creatures.  ::) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on May 30, 2015, 10:47:30 AM
Loved the mist born books

Yet to start my first WoT book - it's next
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 30, 2015, 10:50:04 AM
You have been warned...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on May 30, 2015, 11:12:33 AM
The first WoT book was probably the best, IMO. It was about the transition from a normal life to that of hunted, broken families, to warriors fighting back. Nothing wrong with that psychological fiction. I think it had more meaning in human terms, than the rest of the books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on May 30, 2015, 11:29:42 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on May 29, 2015, 09:15:23 PM
I can only imagine what it would take to bring Simmons' Ilium/Olympos books to the silver screen. Those things cover an astounding number of locales that vary between benthic environs with derelict sunken Caliphate submarines (equipped with micro-singularity warhead missiles) to an entire robot civilization that bootstrapped itself into existence from asteroid mining equipment.

And then there is the inclusion of Shakespeare's 'the Tempest' and the famous seafarer and adventurer Odysseus starting a resistance movement among the idle rich in a future false utopia...

Whew!


Yes, yes.  You know of what I speak.  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 02, 2015, 12:51:04 PM
Without arguing the relative merits (and problems) of the first two WoT books, I definitely agree that Book 2 shifts its style significantly compared to Book 1. I wouldn't recommend going to Book 2 if Book 1 didn't at least prompt some interest in how the overall story is going to go (and various plot threads turn out); but I'd warn someone who adored Book 1 that Book 2 might be too prosaic (in a way), and I'd recommend someone lukewarm about Book 1 who finished it to at least try Book 2 and see if the difference makes a difference (so to speak). There are libraries and super-cheap used copies around after all.

Then I'd warn them that Book 3 isn't going to be much about its title character at all. ;)

Then I'd warn them that Book 4 changes the plot structure again pretty significantly; but that a lot of people like it as the best book.

Then I'd warn them that a lot of people regard Book 5 as when the plot creep started seriously affecting the story, even though a lot of people like it as the best book (myself marginally included).

Then I'd warn them that Books 6 through 11 should probably have been 2 books, and that while most fans (myself included) don't find them as annoying on subsequent reads, they can be increasingly disappointing on first reads. And that nothing can salvage Book 10 which even by the characters' in-story standards is mostly a giant waste of time.

But if they can somehow persevere through Book 10 (though I recommend a good summary on the internet somewhere, preferably with humorous comments), Book 11 (mostly) nicely recovers, and the final three books get increasingly better again.

Then I'd remind readers that the series is fourteen very large books (plus a fairly pointless yet still sizeable prequel), and caution them that they could probably spend their time more entertainingly in other ways, since we're talking about no less than three months solid reading at least.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 02, 2015, 12:55:57 PM
Meanwhile, I'm not far from catching up on re-reading Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality, having finished what is effectively Book 5 and starting Book 6. Loving it just as much or more than on my first read-through, since in hindsight I'm better able to spot foreshadowings and keep them in mind. Whether it can stick the landing in Book 7, I still don't know, but even if it doesn't the author has created a work of admirable literary genius in honor (and some criticism) of Rowling's original series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on June 02, 2015, 02:22:55 PM
Ughh..  the Wheel Of Time series.

It had the typical fantasy series problem.  Too much damn hero pining for "home".  Took it to a whole new and repeated obsession, actually. 

I had to stop reading that series after about the 3rd book because it seemed to pop up constantly.  "Boooohoo.  I miss home", and "I hope to see home again soon", and "I'm daydreaming of home".  The constant barrage made me want to break stuff after awhile.

Not an unusual thing in the genre but that horse was beaten regularly in WoT.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 02, 2015, 03:50:13 PM
Hmm, I never got that vibe, although I kind of see where you're coming from. 

In any case, all three of them stopped pining for home after the fourth book, albeit for very different reasons. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on June 02, 2015, 08:30:59 PM
Only way I could stomach Wheel of Time after a bit was to read the chapters of the people I was interested in.

Even then, I only got through, I think 3 or 4 of those bastards before I started actively rooting for evil to win and doing other things like picking my nose and such.

Currently on my reading list is finishing up John Tolland's The Rising Sun, starting The German Army: 1933 to 1945 and taking a side trip and re-reading The Great War by Hart. 

...and this effort will take me months to complete as I'm horrible at leisure reading in a continuous fashion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 03, 2015, 07:36:48 PM
I'm reading all of the 2015 Hugo Nominees.  I've finished short stories.  I'm now on "novellas" and "novelettes" and hopefully will be finished with those by Tuesday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 06, 2015, 10:57:00 AM
The Dead and Those About to Die: D-Day: The Big Red One at Omaha Beach | [John C. McManus]
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The Dead and Those About to Die: D-Day: The Big Red One at Omaha Beach

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Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on June 07, 2015, 09:20:15 AM
I'm about 100pages into the first book of the wheel of time series , and what Martok forgot to mention is that the book is 751 pages long !! Good job I'm a fast reader ....but still Martok a heads up there would have been nice , lol .  :P

Also I'm reading two other books at the same time , so this is going to take a while , haha ,   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 07, 2015, 03:05:45 PM
I finished up World War Z Saturday night, which means I was finally, *finally* able to start digging into The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay.  O0 




Quote from: Emeraldlis on June 07, 2015, 09:20:15 AM
I'm about 100pages into the first book of the wheel of time series , and what Martok forgot to mention is that the book is 751 pages long !! Good job I'm a fast reader ....but still Martok a heads up there would have been nice , lol .  :P

Also I'm reading two other books at the same time , so this is going to take a while , haha ,   :)
I do apologize, Emeraldlis.  It's not an excuse, but the truth is I've read so many "doorstopper"-length books over the years that I simply don't think to warn other people who maybe aren't used to that...  ::)  :-[ 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on June 07, 2015, 06:15:34 PM
Quote from: Martok on June 07, 2015, 03:05:45 PM
I finished up World War Z Saturday night, which means I was finally, *finally* able to start digging into The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay.  O0 




Quote from: Emeraldlis on June 07, 2015, 09:20:15 AM
I'm about 100pages into the first book of the wheel of time series , and what Martok forgot to mention is that the book is 751 pages long !! Good job I'm a fast reader ....but still Martok a heads up there would have been nice , lol .  :P

Also I'm reading two other books at the same time , so this is going to take a while , haha ,   :)
I do apologize, Emeraldlis.  It's not an excuse, but the truth is I've read so many "doorstopper"-length books over the years that I simply don't think to warn other people who maybe aren't used to that...  ::)  :-[

Lol , it's fine Martok . I don't mind reading a book that length ...it's just with reading two others I thought I could squeeze that in no problem as well !! And then I saw the length and thought ....oh hell , I'm going to have to give this my full attention , and leave my other two books hanging in mid air for a while !!
I'm just hoping when I finish reading it I don't want to use it as an ACTUALL "door stopper " , hahaha,  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on June 07, 2015, 07:13:00 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 29, 2015, 07:52:10 PM
Well, there are a couple of fellows here who happen to think that Eye of the World is pretty good.  They acknowledge that there are some slow bits, but, overall, it was good and Sanderson did an admirable job filling in.  I don't subscribe to that theory.  So there's that.

I would be one of those.

I discovered the series while killing a little time at the University of PA bookstore in Philly because I was temporarily locked out of my apt. There were only 3 books at that time and I thought "Cool, a new trilogy!" and bought the first one.

By the time I started book 3, I realized that it was no where near over. Thus began the long years of re-reading the series every time a new book was coming out, to get ready for it. I stopped reading somewhere around book 7, but never lost interest. I wanted to wait for it to be complete before I got back into it, and many years later it finally was.

Soon I'll read the entire series from the beginning. I'm working up to this task which will probably take more than a year. I wish to hell I'd known how long it would take for the series to finish as I would have bought something else and waited 20+ years to start it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 08, 2015, 02:08:50 PM
Quote from: Martok on June 07, 2015, 03:05:45 PM
I was finally, *finally* able to start digging into The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay. 
I just had to say that I'm already a third of the way through this one.  I don't know if it's the setting, the characters, and/or if Kay is just good with pacing, but it reads very easily.  O0 




Quote from: Ubercat on June 07, 2015, 07:13:00 PM
I stopped reading somewhere around book 7, but never lost interest. I wanted to wait for it to be complete before I got back into it, and many years later it finally was.
Well you were smarter than I was.  I didn't realize I should wait for the series to be completed til Jordan had died and Sanderson was working on the last three books.  (Or maybe I *did* realize, but I was just that much of a "junkie"...)  :-[ 



Quote from: Ubercat on June 07, 2015, 07:13:00 PM
Soon I'll read the entire series from the beginning. I'm working up to this task which will probably take more than a year.
I wish you luck whenever you get around to undertaking the quest then!  It took me 7-8 months to read the whole series (which I finally did last year), although I generally don't churn through books as quickly as I used to either. 



Quote from: Ubercat on June 07, 2015, 07:13:00 PM
I wish to hell I'd known how long it would take for the series to finish as I would have bought something else and waited 20+ years to start it!
Ubercat, I suspect you speak for many of us in saying that.  ;) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 09, 2015, 01:00:57 PM
Quote from: Emeraldlis on June 07, 2015, 09:20:15 AM
I'm about 100pages into the first book of the wheel of time series , and what Martok forgot to mention is that the book is 751 pages long !! Good job I'm a fast reader ....but still Martok a heads up there would have been nice , lol .  :P

Also I'm reading two other books at the same time , so this is going to take a while , haha ,   :)

[...]

Lol , it's fine Martok . I don't mind reading a book that length ...it's just with reading two others I thought I could squeeze that in no problem as well !! And then I saw the length and thought ....oh hell , I'm going to have to give this my full attention , and leave my other two books hanging in mid air for a while !!
I'm just hoping when I finish reading it I don't want to use it as an ACTUALL "door stopper " , hahaha,  ;D


Well, I did give a fair warning at the end of my post about many warnings. ;) With a redundant warning of redundancy even! "Then I'd remind readers that the series is fourteen very large books (plus a fairly pointless yet still sizeable prequel), and caution them that they could probably spend their time more entertainingly in other ways, since we're talking about no less than three months solid reading at least."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 09, 2015, 01:53:20 PM
Meanwhile, finished Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality last night (while not altogether successfully getting past a stomach virus or something). I'd say the author did stick the landing, although readers who've gotten used to the action set-pieces in most of the 'books' might feel a bit disappointed that the final book goes back to a more contemplative attitude similar to the first book. But then after all the Ultimate Bad Guy is working hard not to trigger a needless fight, and Harry is working hard not to trigger a curb-stomp battle he couldn't possibly win. All the plot threads seem to me tied up sufficiently at the end, except for the question of where magic ultimately comes from and how it actually operates, which the author may have intentionally abandoned and never actually intended to answer (although Harry being Harry it would be out of character for him not to obsess over discovering this asap for the first third-ish of the story; so something had to be tried along that line.)

Anyone vaguely interested in the topic but who from hearing and reading other things has decided they just couldn't stomach the original books (and/or movies) might like this take. Anyone who at least likes the original books (and/or movies) might love this take -- I've never read the books, and now would feel like the original series just isn't good enough.

I will critically add that I enjoy writing fiction in the same style the author does, so that will surely be affecting my subjective taste. Also, while the author and I apparently (?) have radically different metaphysics, he seems to be somewhat(?)-inadvertently verging on mine the whole time, which affectionately amused me more than it might amuse other readers.

For anyone curious how far off canon he goes: the basic plot is ported in broad strokes from The Sorcerer's/Philosopher's Stone, with a relevant punch from The Goblet of Fire, and naturally with references to the other books (although the whole plot of all the books isn't covered.) Fans of Sirius Black will be disappointed, though the plot alteration makes sense for keeping the shape of the new plot. Ditto fans of Ron Weasley (if there are any ;) ) and/or Hagrid (though the latter makes a relevant and important brief appearance in the final book once the unicorns start dying in the Forbidden Forest. He's written as to canon but just not as important to the plot.) I don't want to spoil too much.

If I recall correctly it was Peter S. Beagle (author of The Last Unicorn, an Inkling, and friend to both Lewis and Tolkien), who said in reviewing The Book of the Dun Cow by Sheldon Vaneuken (also a friend of Lewis late in life, not sure if he was ever an Inkling): "The best compliment I can give to this book is that I wish I had written it myself. The next best compliment is that I started over immediately after finishing." While I need to go on to some other books, I wish I could start over on it immediately; and I wish I was even capable of writing this myself.  :smitten:


The book(s) is/are of course 100% free, and can be found here: http://hpmor.com/ , both in separate pdfs and in one collected tome. (Also some other formats including links to the original reddit chapters with author commentary and omakes, both missing in the pdfs.) An enterprising and dedicated fan club has ported the work to an audio podcast drama (links on the main page, including from iTunes); I can't testify as to the quality as I haven't heard it yet. As of this date the drama team has made it a little more than halfway through the final book.

The whole series has a wordcount around 660Kwords, about equal to the first five books of the original series; in print format the 6 books (not 7 as in the original series) average a little more than 320 pages each, but that counts a number of blank/interchapter or legal or contents pages. My original runthrough (to somewhere late in new-book 5) and the new runthrough both read very quickly.

The author will add an epilogue about a year from now on PI Day (when he released the final chapter this year).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on June 09, 2015, 11:12:11 PM
Just ordered:

John Dies At The End (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250035953?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00)


and the sequel

This Book Is Full Of Spiders: Seriously, Dude, Don't Touch It (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250036658?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00)


A highly rated mix of horror & comedy spoof that I should've picked up awhile back.  Likened to a mix of modern Lovecraft, some Hitchhiker's Guide, and Kevin Smith humor.  :D

Loved the movie, despite it reportedly having to axe so much content of the first book that it became a shell of the novel.  Didn't realize there was a 2nd book so I'm finally diving in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on June 10, 2015, 03:58:19 PM


Well, I did give a fair warning at the end of my post about many warnings. ;) With a redundant warning of redundancy even! "Then I'd remind readers that the series is fourteen very large books (plus a fairly pointless yet still sizeable prequel), and caution them that they could probably spend their time more entertainingly in other ways, since we're talking about no less than three months solid reading at least."
[/quote]

Well I most humbly beg your pardon Jason , indeed I did read your original warning , warning me to be warned !!!  ;D
Out of complete curiosity and maybe just  a little bit of insanity thrown in for good measure , I decided against your better judgement to give this book a go :)
Although I thank you most graciously for taking the time to forewarn me twice   :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 11, 2015, 11:56:30 AM
Now you have been extra-duly warned.  ;D From experience!

(Because TEotW's wordcount is pretty typical for the series.)

How are things going on the readthrough, btw? Speaking from hindsight, it's pretty amazing how many plotlines RJ sets up in Book 1 which will pay off later; sometimes much later; sometimes much, much later. (The next two books as well, although Book 3 does feature some preliminary plot resolutions.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on June 11, 2015, 03:21:47 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 11, 2015, 11:56:30 AM
Now you have been extra-duly warned.  ;D From experience!

(Because TEotW's wordcount is pretty typical for the series.)

How are things going on the readthrough, btw? Speaking from hindsight, it's pretty amazing how many plotlines RJ sets up in Book 1 which will pay off later; sometimes much later; sometimes much, much later. (The next two books as well, although Book 3 does feature some preliminary plot resolutions.)

Well since you so very kindly asked ....I'll tell ya !!!

So far ,( and this is early on so it could very well change ) , the author has managed to bore me stupid with page after page of landscape description . Now I've nothing against an author setting the scene ....but I don't really need page after monotonous page about rocks and trees and such  :o

I don't feel like I'm rooting for any particular character . He's not managed to even make me care if any of these guys make it home !!!

And another thing , lol , that's really annoyed me , is how he's thrown random descriptions in to the story , that I think is meant to give the reader a sense of mysterious air and maybe foreboding doom . I'm talking about quotes like " and the sun will be dark and not give its light " ......on its own a fairly portentious sign ......but it's not explained why or how this is happening , what does it all mean Jordan !!!!  He's just not woven it in to the narrative , and quite frankly I'm losing intrest and patience rapidly  :knuppel2:

But I shall persevere and make it to the end of this book if it's the last thing I do  :D  who knows by some miracle it may improve and manage to capture some tiny amount of my attention . One things for sure this guy is no Brandon Sanderson , and I don't think I've got it in me to wade through ten more  books of his "story" ....I use the term loosely ....just to get to the last three Sanderson books !! I may lose the will to live  :crazy2:

So yeah Jason it's going ok I suppose , thanks for asking  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 11, 2015, 07:37:06 PM
Quote from: Emeraldlis on June 11, 2015, 03:21:47 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 11, 2015, 11:56:30 AM
Now you have been extra-duly warned.  ;D From experience!



So far ,( and this is early on so it could very well change ) , the author has managed to bore me stupid with page after page of landscape description . Now I've nothing against an author setting the scene ....but I don't really need page after monotonous page about rocks and trees and such  :o




Speaking of warnings, I believe I warned you about this.  And it never changes.  If he can use five words to describe something, he makes it last fourteen or fifteen chapters.  And his admirers (read: JasonPratt and Martok) will have you believe that, yes, there is some padding of the word count, but, it didn't happen until later in the series when it became popular and they wanted Jordan to spin things out so everyone could make more money.  To which I respond, bullsh*t.  It starts in the first book and only gets worse as it goes.  So, continue at your own risk.

Edited to install a  :D emoticon so everyone knew that I was serious, BUT, not being ugly about it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 15, 2015, 08:04:54 AM
Actually his defenders (read: me and Martok) will say that the later books aren't padding the wordcount for financial purposes either, but for other reasons. Nor back then would he have been padding things out on a whim; publishers didn't have ebooks back then, and ink and paper cost a ton of money, nor was he at the time an established fantasy name so that readers needed to feel like they were getting a lot of RJ for their money. (Not that any readers probably ever felt that about one of his books. ;) His defenders can be pretty acerbic, too, you know...)

Tons of visual description are, however, fairly standard for the epic fantasy genre, following in Tolkien's footsteps -- and TEotW is nothing if not following pretty hard in Tolkien's footsteps!  :crazy2: I just skip by such things the first time I read them, though on (some) rereads I find I have more appreciation for them, at least the environmental descriptions. (I still skip over the endless talk about clothing, but I recognize that he's trying to build a Renaissance Era milieu and fancy clothing was a big part of that.)


The random mysterious foreboding doom descriptions are prophecy language, Emeraldis; you won't know how literally to take it until it happens. Which considering that a lot of it applies to the Last Battle, won't be until Book 14 (though some of it happens sooner). It isn't random, though some of it is stereotypical.


Anyway, I'm not sure I can say it's going to get better in any sense you care about (Mat's character gets a lot better but not until Book 3), before it gets a lot worse for a while in all the ways you already don't like.  >:D If you aren't on board yet with the epic epicality of it all (this opening novel features a lot of travel compared to many of the sequels) and/or with the characters, then I doubt you ever will be.

If you feel like you're missing out on the final three Sanderson books as a Sanderson fan, however, then may I suggest Leigh Butler's WoT reread at Tor.com? She summarizes each chapter pretty thoroughly, sometimes with key dialogue, though at about 10 percent length; and then comments on the chapters, often snarkily. You can read them for free at Tor, or (if you feel a need to not access Tor and/or the massive threads after each post) Tor published them in physical and ebook formats. That would blast you through the novels at 10x speed and get you to Sandersons finale trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 15, 2015, 07:29:54 PM
I've seemed to really slow down in my reading this 1st half of the year. I'm still at some point in Foundation and Earth, and will eventually get back to it. I've read The Inner Game of Tennis, and re-read Red Storm Rising and The Silicon Man. The rest of my reading has been Honor Harrington books, The Short Victorious War, Field of Dishonor, Flag in Exile, and Honor Among Enemies .
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 17, 2015, 03:17:20 AM
Today I veered off in a different direction and read an author I probably haven't read since I was a teenager. In junior high and high school I devoured Mack Bolan, Phoenix Force, and Able Team books. Don Pendelton's Executioner series is available in ebook form now and I picked up the first book in that series, The Executioner - War Against the Mafia, finishing it in one night.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 17, 2015, 10:25:22 AM
I finished Guy Gavriel Kay's The Lions of Al-Rassan early this morning.  A good solid historical-fantasy read; I'll definitely be checking out more of Kay's works in the future.  Thanks for the recommendation Toonces!  O0 


Next up:  A month or two back, I picked up a nice hardcover edition of Dumas' The Count of Monte Cristo for a (figurative) song.  Read it a couple years ago, and have been itching to reread it. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 19, 2015, 03:29:14 PM
I managed to work through the rest of Foundation and Earth the last couple of nights, and I also read The Executioner - Death Squad the other night as well. Next up is to finish the HH book In Enemy Hands, and then I think next will be Caliban's War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 19, 2015, 07:39:12 PM
In preparation for the release of the Empire of the Sun 2nd ed boardgame from GMT, I'm listening to an audiobook recording of Nemesis by Max Hastings.  I'm also reading some Osprey books on Halifaxes, Mosquitos, and Lancasters.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 21, 2015, 07:52:03 PM
About to start Disenchanted by Robert Kroese...think a newer version of The Princess Bride.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 21, 2015, 07:55:40 PM
Started re-reading Red Storm Rising during the cruise last week. Didn't get a chance to read anything else and only got about 2/3 of the way through it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 24, 2015, 12:21:38 PM
The Thin Black Line
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 24, 2015, 08:11:35 PM
Finished the five book Invasion USA series by Vaughn Heppner.  Give it a 2 out of 5.

There was so much potential there but if fell completely short.  All of the dialog between the characters were almost strictly one liners.  You could tell that either he didn't read it over very well and or no one else read it over.  I felt too often that I was reading something written by a sixth grader.

From military point of view, he didn't seem to have any knowledge of tactics or strategic warfare.  It seemed like everything was solved with millions of soldiers on each side, wave attacks, and high body counts.  The American's develop a space based kinetic weapon, and uses it on merchant ships sending troops and supplies from China to Mexico.  Why not go after the Chinese land anti-satellite bases so you can get spy sats back into orbit.  Or hit their power grid and docks.  Allow the subs to go after the mechies. 

The US has an energy crisis at the beginning of the series, but never seems to be an issue after the first book, especially after losing control of the Alaskan oil fields.

In the first two books, the USAF is getting it's arse kicked up one side and down the other.  By the third book, they're holding their own and giving better than they take, but there is no new system that accounts for this.  There is no explanation for it at all. 

I could go on with all of the issues but not much point. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 25, 2015, 03:00:25 AM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 24, 2015, 12:21:38 PM
The Thin Black Line

""Am I... am I disfigured?" Mike whispered. "Take it easy, Mike. Considering that your face stopped a bullet, you look pretty good."

Great line. Great book so far( chapter 10).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 26, 2015, 02:14:08 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 24, 2015, 08:11:35 PM
Finished the five book Invasion USA series by Vaughn Heppner.  Give it a 2 out of 5.

There was so much potential there but if fell completely short.  All of the dialog between the characters were almost strictly one liners.  You could tell that either he didn't read it over very well and or no one else read it over.  I felt too often that I was reading something written by a sixth grader.

From military point of view, he didn't seem to have any knowledge of tactics or strategic warfare.  It seemed like everything was solved with millions of soldiers on each side, wave attacks, and high body counts.  The American's develop a space based kinetic weapon, and uses it on merchant ships sending troops and supplies from China to Mexico.  Why not go after the Chinese land anti-satellite bases so you can get spy sats back into orbit.  Or hit their power grid and docks.  Allow the subs to go after the mechies. 

The US has an energy crisis at the beginning of the series, but never seems to be an issue after the first book, especially after losing control of the Alaskan oil fields.

In the first two books, the USAF is getting it's arse kicked up one side and down the other.  By the third book, they're holding their own and giving better than they take, but there is no new system that accounts for this.  There is no explanation for it at all. 

I could go on with all of the issues but not much point.

I Read (or listened to) the series as well, and I agree with all the issues. I did manage to enjoy it though. Despite the problems, the story-telling was pretty good and it didn't unfold predictably. Once I just let go of any hope for realism it became much more enjoyable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on June 26, 2015, 06:00:22 PM
Just started The Black Company series, loving it so far
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 26, 2015, 06:07:23 PM
^I've read a lot of those stories. Glen Cook is one of my heroes because he supposedly did most of his writing while he was supposed to be rotting away in a cubicle at GM :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 26, 2015, 06:22:16 PM
I found the first series better than the second.  It was a good read though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on June 26, 2015, 07:34:01 PM
What I'm enjoying the most is the banter between the characters, especially two of the magicians. One part had me crying with laughter. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on June 26, 2015, 09:17:05 PM
Thin Black Line is pretty good. I'm about 2/3 the way through.

I had no idea Canada had SF types in the RCMP as well as JTF2. That's pretty cool. I knew there was swat type roles in the big cities, never thought more about it. Apparently the guy that wrote it was the real deal.

The other thing that is interesting about the book is the idea that the people doing these CT roles are badly pressed for response time. The author has a youtube vid where he said he got that feedback in several countries when asking around. The premise in the book is there is this new organization set up that does not have to wait, they just go. Legally that idea is scary, no oversight, no accountability. On the other hand, in the book, there are situations where time is critical. Small windows come up to stop the attacks. Waiting is failing. It's something worth thinking about. Where is the right balance? Does the balance shift if there is a lot of threats?

The writing is fairly good too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 27, 2015, 07:31:27 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 26, 2015, 02:14:08 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on June 24, 2015, 08:11:35 PM
Finished the five book Invasion USA series by Vaughn Heppner.  Give it a 2 out of 5.

There was so much potential there but if fell completely short.  All of the dialog between the characters were almost strictly one liners.  You could tell that either he didn't read it over very well and or no one else read it over.  I felt too often that I was reading something written by a sixth grader.

From military point of view, he didn't seem to have any knowledge of tactics or strategic warfare.  It seemed like everything was solved with millions of soldiers on each side, wave attacks, and high body counts.  The American's develop a space based kinetic weapon, and uses it on merchant ships sending troops and supplies from China to Mexico.  Why not go after the Chinese land anti-satellite bases so you can get spy sats back into orbit.  Or hit their power grid and docks.  Allow the subs to go after the mechies. 

The US has an energy crisis at the beginning of the series, but never seems to be an issue after the first book, especially after losing control of the Alaskan oil fields.

In the first two books, the USAF is getting it's arse kicked up one side and down the other.  By the third book, they're holding their own and giving better than they take, but there is no new system that accounts for this.  There is no explanation for it at all. 

I could go on with all of the issues but not much point.

I Read (or listened to) the series as well, and I agree with all the issues. I did manage to enjoy it though. Despite the problems, the story-telling was pretty good and it didn't unfold predictably. Once I just let go of any hope for realism it became much more enjoyable.

Agree.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 27, 2015, 10:00:44 AM
I finished In Enemy Hands and started Caliban's War. I also received a gift card to Barnes & Noble yesterday and after it popping up on here repeatedly I decided to get The Chronicles of the Black  Company .  So that will probably be next on the list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 28, 2015, 01:47:42 PM
Starting The World of Ice & Fire...a history of Westeros by George RR Martin, Elio Garcia and Linda Antonsson. Not sure if I can read this like a regular book, it is more of an encyclopedia of Westeros. Good thing to read before I get started with the most recent season of the series, finally.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on June 29, 2015, 12:17:18 PM
Finished Caliban's War over the weekend. I picked up a couple of novellas related to the series and will probably read those before the rest of the series. Going to start in on Chronicles of the Black Company this week.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 29, 2015, 08:54:26 PM
Quote from: vyshka on June 29, 2015, 12:17:18 PM
Finished Caliban's War over the weekend. I picked up a couple of novellas related to the series and will probably read those before the rest of the series. Going to start in on Chronicles of the Black Company this week.

In case it's not been mentioned in this thread already, the Syfy Channel's adaptation of the first book, Leviathan Wakes, is due out this year. The tv series is to be titled 'The Expanse'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 30, 2015, 01:11:36 PM
Just a note that I've made my Cry of Justice novel freely available as a pdf download here at Grogheads: http://grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=14075.0 (also currently in my sig). No ads or anything like that; if you want to pay at Amazon, instructions on how to do so are in the opening post.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2015, 07:06:30 PM
^Thank you!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 01, 2015, 12:24:49 PM
LET MY PRETENSIOUSNESS FLOW THROUGH YOU!!  >:D More than usually I mean.  :))
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 01, 2015, 07:51:25 PM
Just keep giving us those 100000 word posts and everything will be fine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 02, 2015, 08:07:29 AM
That reminds me, I still have a 1st Battle of Bull Run AAR to finish posting (and playing to some extent). What happens after I brilliantly win the battle a few hours into it with only two regiments? And can I possibly make it somewhat interesting to read?  >:D ::) :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2015, 08:17:36 AM
If any man is up to the challenge, it's you Pratt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on July 02, 2015, 03:22:12 PM
Just started   The Eagle and the Albatros: A Novel of the Imperial German Air Service: Volume 1 (The Eagle Trillogy) by Mr. Deke D Wagner

"A NOVEL OF THE IMPERIAL GERMAN AIR SERVICE A TALE OF AERIAL ADVENTURE set in France during World War I. Willi Wissemann, an impetuous Bavarian officer, joins the German Air Service in 1916 to escape the drudgery and hardships of trench warfare. He is sent to the Front after a brief stint in flying school and begins his career as a recon-bomber pilot, excelling at the seemingly menial tasks of aerial bombardment and photographic reconnaissance. But Wissemann soon realizes that flying single-seat fighting scouts is his true destiny. When the German High Command reorganizes the Air Service into specialized "hunting-squadrons" and re-equips them with their latest scout, the Albatros D.III—the air war takes on a fiercer and more deadly course. Finally, after many months of pestering the Army High Command, Willi Wissemann gets his chance to take command of a Jasta—a fighter squadron. Once he arrives at the airfield in the Champagne sector, he realizes he has his work cut out for him. He must reorganize an insubordinate bunch of misfits, misanthropes, castoffs and drunks, into a real fighting-squadron. Then during the height of the French spring offensive of 1917, Wissemann is asked to fly a special mission to Paris, transporting a Secret Service agent. What happens next will have a profound effect on his life, his career, and his outlook on the war, changing him forever, scarring his soul for eternity."

Has good reviews and so far so good. Will definately get the follow on.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1491272724?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1491272724?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 02, 2015, 04:03:11 PM
Sounds like a good pitch for a film, too! Keep us posted on how you find it.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on July 02, 2015, 05:34:45 PM
Even has an Appendix at the back with a page dedicated to a particular plane. Also a glossary. The book is very well researched which can always be an issue with novels and something that can ruin a novel for me.

Quote from: JasonPratt on July 02, 2015, 04:03:11 PM
Sounds like a good pitch for a film, too! Keep us posted on how you find it.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 03, 2015, 10:55:32 PM
Daggummitt, I just lost a whole long post!  I hate when that happens!   >:(

So short version:

Gus:  Recommend reading GoT regular books if you haven't already.  They're great, even if you've seen all of the TV show.

Martok:  I knew you'd like Lions.  If you are ready for more Kay, I'd recommend my favorite: Sailing to Sarantium.  It's slower to get into, but it's my favorite book of all time.  It's deep and the end is simply spectacular.  I don't recommend binging on Kay, though, because he's kind of intense.  Maybe one more and then take a break.  But I can't recommend Sailing highly enough...it is a very good book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 04, 2015, 01:22:14 PM
http://www.audible.com/pd/History/Common-Sense-Audiobook/B0066BS0GI/ref=a_hp_c2_dd_p?ie=UTF8&pf_rd_r=1V923DH7TSTKHVNX9A3S&pf_rd_m=A2ZO8JX97D5MN9&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=5000&pf_rd_p=2122937182&pf_rd_s=center-2

Thomas Paine's Common Sense for 99 cents today! A good book for the 4th.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 04, 2015, 06:04:22 PM
Toonces I read the first GoT, I have the second waiting on my shelf.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on July 06, 2015, 06:54:25 AM
Almost done with Battle for the Falklands by Max Hastings. Everything else I've read on the conflict has been pretty dry, but this one really captures the drama of the war. Very engaging.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 06, 2015, 08:33:41 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on July 06, 2015, 06:54:25 AM
Almost done with Battle for the Falklands by Max Hastings. Everything else I've read on the conflict has been pretty dry, but this one really captures the drama of the war. Very engaging.

A classic. One of my all-time favorite military histories. It's one I've read several times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 06, 2015, 08:42:57 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on July 06, 2015, 06:54:25 AM
Almost done with Battle for the Falklands by Max Hastings. Everything else I've read on the conflict has been pretty dry, but this one really captures the drama of the war. Very engaging.

Agreed. I've read it several times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on July 06, 2015, 09:29:04 AM
Tactical Wargames, if you are on a WWI kick, try Ernest K. Gann's In the Company of Eagles.
Actually anything by Gann is worth reading.  You may know his better known novels "Fate is the Hunter", "THe High and the Mighty", or "Masada".
Clearly the best pilot who wrote novels, his stuff is very engrossing.  If you've already read, or seen, Masada, try his sequel, Antagonists.
He really was a pilot and could tell a great story.  During World War II, he was in the Transport Command in India.  Taking off from Agra in a DC3 (Gooney Bird), his engines failed and he nearly became famous as the man who crashed into the Taj Mahal.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on July 06, 2015, 08:29:54 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on July 06, 2015, 06:54:25 AM
Almost done with Battle for the Falklands by Max Hastings. Everything else I've read on the conflict has been pretty dry, but this one really captures the drama of the war. Very engaging.

I really enjoyed One Hundred Days: The Memoirs of the Falklands Battle Group Commander by Sandy Woodward
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 07, 2015, 04:30:00 PM
Quote from: Toonces on July 03, 2015, 10:55:32 PM
Martok:  I knew you'd like Lions.  If you are ready for more Kay, I'd recommend my favorite: Sailing to Sarantium.  It's slower to get into, but it's my favorite book of all time.  It's deep and the end is simply spectacular.  I don't recommend binging on Kay, though, because he's kind of intense.  Maybe one more and then take a break.  But I can't recommend Sailing highly enough...it is a very good book.
Thanks Toonces!  I'll be sure check it out, although I'll probably wait a book or two after Monte Cristo, as I'll probably want something a little lighter by that point.  (Even with all the swashbuckling, Dumas tends to be somewhat dense reading in my experience.)  It's definitely going on my "to do" list, though.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 07, 2015, 07:05:25 PM
I'm in Dallas for a few days attending the pilot of a generator class I authored. I'm actually okay with hiding out in a hotel, at least here as the area's a little dicey. I found a Half-Price Books close to me and found a few gems that I couldn't resist buying. It's been a LONG time since I've actually bought a book from Half Price so I was pretty happy.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1175.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr624%2FMichaelE6%2FF2A016D9-31F8-4298-A69E-FCDE20263791.jpg&hash=ed2071a60273f55742a427f650c675c5318bd7dc)

Das Boot...I mean, come on. No brainer.  O0

Generation Kill, I once had and read a long time ago, then lent it out and never got it back, so this was a GREAT find for me.

Then the German Infantry book just looked good an it was cheap (cheaper than most of their books).

I was a little pissed when I found an old paperback - can't even remember what it was now - but it was $2.25. So, Half Price Books, you'd think it's $1.13 or so, right? Nah, it was $4.99. Makes perfect sense. I thought maybe it was a collectible but it was in the general history section and wasn't in a clear cover. Oh well, I did well I think.

I did check the games section and they had nothing. It was a lot smaller than the Half Price that's near my house. I really felt like I was going to find a bargain. I did see a boxed copy of the Top Secret RPG but I already have it, so meh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 07, 2015, 07:49:45 PM
After the books take a black light to that mattress.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 07, 2015, 08:47:05 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 07, 2015, 07:49:45 PM
After the books take a black light to that mattress.

:buck2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 07, 2015, 08:53:54 PM
^Looks like you may have already done that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 08, 2015, 07:49:08 AM
Wish I could say I already made my mark on that.

But some things are better left undiscovered, which is precisely why one does NOT bring a blacklight to a La Quinta Inn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 08, 2015, 01:11:18 PM
Truer words are rarely spoken.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 08, 2015, 01:35:39 PM
I am currently reading Righteous Fury (http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24906889-righteous-fury) by Markus Heitz.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on July 08, 2015, 07:31:08 PM
Got a few chapters into Shadowrun: Borrowed Time (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YBHGGU6?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_d_detailpage_o00_) earlier this week. 

Not some new revelation in storytelling plots, but thus far it's been an engaging read in the cyber-magic-noir IP.

I can see myself burning through this pretty quickly once I start in again, which is a good sign.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 13, 2015, 11:10:29 PM
I just started reading This Book Is Full of Spiders: Seriously, Dude, Don't Touch It by David Wong.

Talk about a change of pace!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on July 14, 2015, 04:38:42 AM
I've finished the first volume of The Black Company Chronicles, aka as The Books of the North, and what a brilliant series, best fantasy I've read in a long time. I've now moved on to The Books of the South.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 14, 2015, 07:26:52 AM
Never read Books of the South, but if you're digging Glen Cook try An Empire Unacquainted With Defeat, a book of short stories set in the same fantasy universe.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 14, 2015, 08:56:36 AM
Also, currently reading Byzantine Armies 325ad-1453ad by Dimitris Belezos. It's similar to the classic Osprey Men at Arms series but bigger and badder and on steroids.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 14, 2015, 07:55:23 PM
Just finished 'First Blood' by Charles Whiting, which dealt with the Battle of Kasserine.

Good read. First book I've read totally through Kindle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 15, 2015, 02:54:24 PM
The movie adaptation was generally better overall.

:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 16, 2015, 09:04:34 PM
I've finished all of my reading for the 2015 Hugo Award ballot.  I have a couple of recommendations out of it.

"The Triple Sun: A Golden Age Tale", Rajnar Vajra (Analog, 07/08-2014) = 1.  Awesome planet exploration and understanding an alien race mystery.  This is a short story.  It is one of the best SF short stories I have read in decades.

Three more short stories were also very good:
"Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust, Earth to Alluvium", Gray Rinehart (Orson Scott Card's InterGalactic Medicine Show, 05-2014) – Enjoyed it a lot.  Aliens conquer a small Earth Colony and this is a plot by a dying man to use below ground burial to hopefully end the servitude.

"Championship B'tok", Edward M. Lerner (Analog, 09-2014) – very good story about a small group of aliens captured by humanity, their spy operations to gain freedom, and internal spy operations to overthrow the current alien leadership.

Big Boys Don't Cry, Tom Kratman (Castalia House) – enjoyed it.  Story about a AI type battle tank, its battles, and its betrayal for scrap.  This is not quite as good as the others - but if you enjoyed the Hammers Slammers series you would probably like this.


My final recommendation is a very odd read for me:
The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison
This is a SF story about a planet with multiple races.  The protagonist is a half-breed, young male who is 5th in line for a Chinese Court type throne with despotic powers.  The boy is an exile with a very poor tutor who also mentally/physically abused him.   The Emperor and the next 4 in line for the throne are killed in a Zeppelin type crash - and the boy suddenly becomes Emperor and has to decipher all of the ways of the Imperial Court and establish his reign.  The book is somewhat slow to develop, but really sucked you into a totally different culture, world view, and alien world.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on July 17, 2015, 12:38:38 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 13, 2015, 11:10:29 PM
I just started reading This Book Is Full of Spiders: Seriously, Dude, Don't Touch It by David Wong.

Talk about a change of pace!


Did you read the first one, John Dies At The End

I suppose you saw the movie based on it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 17, 2015, 01:20:01 AM
Quote from: Nefaro on July 17, 2015, 12:38:38 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 13, 2015, 11:10:29 PM
I just started reading This Book Is Full of Spiders: Seriously, Dude, Don't Touch It by David Wong.

Talk about a change of pace!


Did you read the first one, John Dies At The End

I suppose you saw the movie based on it.

Yes, I read the first book, John Dies at the End (http://www.johndiesattheend.com/jdatep.php). But I haven't seen the movie yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on July 17, 2015, 05:02:22 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 17, 2015, 01:20:01 AM
Quote from: Nefaro on July 17, 2015, 12:38:38 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on July 13, 2015, 11:10:29 PM
I just started reading This Book Is Full of Spiders: Seriously, Dude, Don't Touch It by David Wong.

Talk about a change of pace!


Did you read the first one, John Dies At The End

I suppose you saw the movie based on it.

Yes, I read the first book, John Dies at the End (http://www.johndiesattheend.com/jdatep.php). But I haven't seen the movie yet.


They did a pretty good job on the movie, especially considering the budget.  Some great acting in there;  whomever ran casting did a wonderful job. 

Obviously they had to pick & choose bits to fit into a move that's an hour & a half but it's well worth watching.   Still on Netflix and I think one of the premium movie channels also plays it on occasion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 19, 2015, 09:29:31 PM
The entire Airboy & Skywolf comic run from the 1980s to early 1990s has been collected into 3 large paperback graphic novels.  I've received the first one and ordered the last 2.  Quality on Volume 1 was excellent.

See: http://www.amazon.com/Airboy-Archives-1-Timothy-Truman/dp/1613779003/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1437359270&sr=1-1&keywords=airboy&pebp=1437359270711&perid=1K0784Q8YX27P7C30VPD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on July 19, 2015, 09:38:49 PM
O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on July 19, 2015, 11:25:05 PM
Just started Perdido Street Station by China Mieville. It's the first of a trilogy that my best friend liked very much and I've inherited them all from him. I can't figure out yet if the setting is far future earth or an alien planet. It takes place in a large, ancient city and there are many races. So far the non human ones seem to be Earth animal species uplifted to sentience.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on July 20, 2015, 11:17:55 AM
This weekend I read Ernest Cline's new book Armada.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on July 20, 2015, 05:32:47 PM
I caught up on about 10 back issues of Detective Comics.  It's really the best of all the Batman series in print.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 21, 2015, 12:16:29 PM
I have just about finished (audio) "How to Survive a Horror Movie"
http://www.amazon.com/Survive-Horror-Movie-Seth-Grahame-Smith/dp/1594741794/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437498694&sr=8-1&keywords=how+to+survive+a+horror+movie

My wife watches these movies (I have seen very few).  All of the advice was "dead on."  It is very funny.

For example - the most deadly sin in a horror movie is disbelief.  If you disbelieve that you are in the horror movie you will suffer certain death.
Another example - you are in an evil house.  The room reverses gravity.  How to escape?  Simple - sing the horrid Lionel Richie song "Dancing on the Ceiling" and enthusiastically prance around.  The evil house will throw up - ejecting you from the building and thus you will survive.

But sorry Longblade - the author has contempt for anyone killed by Zombies or animated dolls (think Chucky).  He thinks anyone killed by these monsters is merely pathetic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 22, 2015, 12:21:28 PM
Slow moving zombies, maybe. Fast moving zombies (even without Evil Dead powers)...?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 22, 2015, 07:44:42 PM
Just started reading The Life of Belisarius by Lord Mahon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on July 23, 2015, 12:46:59 PM
So what's Bill Gates reading this summer???


http://www.gatesnotes.com/About-Bill-Gates/Summer-Books-2015 (http://www.gatesnotes.com/About-Bill-Gates/Summer-Books-2015)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 23, 2015, 01:40:17 PM
Quote from: Windigo on July 23, 2015, 12:46:59 PM
So what's Bill Gates reading this summer???


http://www.gatesnotes.com/About-Bill-Gates/Summer-Books-2015 (http://www.gatesnotes.com/About-Bill-Gates/Summer-Books-2015)

Meh books. There is way better than that out there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 27, 2015, 07:30:23 PM
I am currently reading Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 27, 2015, 08:47:03 PM
^BB will be proud.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 28, 2015, 01:06:35 PM
I just finished "The Change: Tales of Downfall and Rebirth (Change Series) a collection of short stories and novellas set in the Dies the Fire world of S.M. Stirling.

This was an unusual collection for me because I like d 75% of the stories in a 500+ page collection.  I read the thing in a week.

SM Stirlings world is a post-apocalyptic world where there is a change in physics where high energy principles (steam engines, electricity, gunpowder) all stop working.  Really well executed idea.  His first book in the series is "Dies the Fire" which is excellent.


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2015, 04:09:49 PM
About to start Justinian: The Last Roman Emperor by GP Baker, written 1931. The last book I read was Belisarius - The Last Roman Emperor by Lord Mahon, written in 1829 (!!!) It was not so readable. Hoping 100 years makes a difference.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 28, 2015, 05:25:09 PM
Falklands: Voyage to War by James Barrington.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 29, 2015, 12:46:00 PM
The Battle of Midway. $1.99 today on Amazon
:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 29, 2015, 02:59:17 PM
Between my various technical reading (none of it currently groggy), I've started reading the web original supersized novel Worm (https://parahumans.wordpress.com/table-of-contents/). (Clocks at 1.60+ million words, or a little more than ten times my first novel Cry of Justice PLUG PLUG  >:D .)

It's a urban fantasy superhero epic, possibly inspired by MMOs like City of Heroes and/or RPGs of a similar sort; but it reads more like a manga/anime shonen (dueling) high school-age series.

This means the main character and lots of prime characters are teenagers -- in this case, a fifteen year old high-school sophomore girl with some Peter Parkerish social issues. (And some rather different 'spider-powers' as she can mentally control insects, but has no bodily powers of her own. Her first fight is against an up-and-coming gang villain with Hulk powers, if by Hulk you mean "turns progressively into an iron dragon with Human Torch abilities."  :o 8) )

Which, yeah, if riding along with an angsty teen girl is not a selling point for you (it almost isn't for me), I can totally understand. But the style also means there's a ridiculously detailed amount of worldbuilding and tons of characters who are rounded and/or dynamic, and plenty of tactical / strategic fighting which I would think any grog would love, with (unlike the Wild Cards series of novels and short stories, so far as I recall) an ongoing increasingly epic plotline.

Which is what sold me on starting the series.

Set in in the late 90s (I think?), the first superhero, "Scion" -- a reclusive and sad Superman expy with long white hair and golden skin -- somehow seemed to trigger the emergence of parahumans after his first appearance in 1985. Heroes began grouping first, but supervillains followed soon afterward, and now a large number of parahuman groups and individuals dot the world with more coming into new powers every day. Different continents and nations are handling the situation somewhat differently, although the US government and Canada have sanctioned several official groups, the largest of which is the Protectorate. Taylor Hebert, a 15-year-old high-school girl, has grown up in this world, and is currently consumed with bully problems and having recently lost her mother, plus secretly studying her newly emerging bug-control powers (which extend to spiders and similar creatures, not just insects). But while there's a lot of grey-on-grey morality, with heroes and villains (grouped or individual) ranging across the board in their relative ethics, the world is slowly being torn apart as seriously insane and/or evil people develop powers and discover ways to make life on Earth hell, requiring the heroes and villains to set aside their cop-and-robber games to take them down.

Which doesn't count the kaiju-sized creatures starting to show up and raze cities for inscrutable reasons (rather like the Angels on Neo Genesis Evangelion).

What can a little bug-girl, living in a Boston-ish Northeastern US coastal city, do about any of that? Especially when she's picked up early by a potentially dangerous local supervillain gang?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 29, 2015, 07:42:38 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 29, 2015, 12:46:00 PM
The Battle of Midway. $1.99 today on Amazon
:D

Got that one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 29, 2015, 08:04:43 PM
Grabbed Midway toot sweet.

They also have 'Tiger Tracks' (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UASW4GK?refRID=6NJ560W9FEN4HNZ5VGST&ref_=pd_typ_k_sp_1_2_p) and 'The Last Panther' (http://www.amazon.com/Last-Panther-Slaughter-Reich-Kessel-ebook/dp/B00Y1R4X92/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8), both by Wolfgang Faust, for 3 bucks US each. The books are first-hand accounts, respectively, of the war on the eastern front and the final days of the Reich, both from a tanker's perspective.

Now they are also both mine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MinmatarCitizen on July 30, 2015, 11:31:50 PM
Just finished "A Tomb Called Iwo Jima" and it was pretty damned interesting.  It dealt with first hand accounts of the battle from the Japanese perspective.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 31, 2015, 09:27:51 AM
Just finished re-reading for the second time, The Gothic War by Torsten Jacobsen. Currently re-reading for the second time, Eden to Armageddon- WWI In the Middle East by Roger Ford. But waiting for Prit Buttar's second book on WWI in the east, Germany Ascendant which should be out right now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 31, 2015, 12:25:44 PM
Let us know how Germany Ascendant is...been looking at that for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 31, 2015, 02:48:07 PM
Will do.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 05, 2015, 10:21:14 PM
Quote from: airboy on July 29, 2015, 07:42:38 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on July 29, 2015, 12:46:00 PM
The Battle of Midway. $1.99 today on Amazon
:D

Got that one.

This was a very good book.  I've read several Midway books.

The Battle of Midway (Pivotal Moments in American History) Kindle Edition by Craig L. Symonds - this was excellent.
Miracle at Midway
Incredible Victory by Lord

I've read all of the major overview books now but Shattered Sword.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 06, 2015, 03:04:23 PM
I just started reading Thunder Run: The Armored Strike to Capture Baghdad by David Zucchino.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 06, 2015, 03:20:32 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on August 06, 2015, 03:04:23 PM
I just started reading Thunder Run: The Armored Strike to Capture Baghdad by David Zucchino.

Its a fantastic read - hope you enjoy it as much as I did. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2015, 08:09:25 PM
Just started Rome's Gothic Wars by Michael Kulikowski. Tearing through a lot of the ancient Rome books I've bought through the years.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on August 11, 2015, 11:28:54 PM
Finished John Dies At The End.

Starting on This Book Is Full Of Spiders.

;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 12, 2015, 12:04:18 PM
This forum, incidentally, is full of spiders at the moment, too!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 12, 2015, 01:50:17 PM
Do you feel the silky spider love?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on August 12, 2015, 06:25:43 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 12, 2015, 01:50:17 PM
Do you feel the silky spider love?

Martok does.  Every night.  When he's sleeping.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 17, 2015, 08:21:06 PM
At the link is a breakdown of advanced sales by an established SF author.  Note - audible sales were the single biggest category.  Foreign sales were also a big portion of the total.

See: http://whatever.scalzi.com/2015/08/10/the-state-of-a-genre-title-2015/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 17, 2015, 08:22:14 PM
I am rereading the Guardians of the Flame series by Joel Rosenberg.  I've completed the first 2 books of the first 5.  I'm about a third of the way through book 3.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 17, 2015, 10:38:45 PM
That's a blast from the past there, airboy!  It's been a long time since I read them, but, I seem to remember that they got worse as they went.  I think he did, Magic Kingdom For Sale: SOLD!  I liked that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 18, 2015, 09:20:39 AM
Just began The Great War of Our Time: The CIA's Fight Against Terrorism from alQaida to ISIS by Michael Morell and Bill Harlow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 18, 2015, 09:27:21 AM
Roosevelt's Centurions.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on August 18, 2015, 10:52:01 AM
About half way through Rebel Yell: The Violence, Passion, and Redemption of Stonewall Jackson by S.C. Gwynn. Maybe the best ACW book I've come across.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 18, 2015, 11:21:00 AM
I'm still slowly making my way through A Time for Trumpets, about the Battle of the Bulge. Finished Red Storm Rising again, probably the 25th time or so I've read it over the years.

I also started a book called In A Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson (http://www.amazon.com/In-Sunburned-Country-Bill-Bryson/dp/0767903862). He's an excellent author and in this one, writes of his experiences from several trips Down Under. The book is older (published in 2001), but it's really good, and he does go on at length at times about what can kill you in Australia. ;D

He's written a lot of books, but the only other one I've read thus far (twice now, actually) is The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid, where he talks about his life growing up in Des Moines, Iowa, in the 1950s. Overall he's very much a history buff and likes to write about such things at length, and I've enjoyed his work so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 18, 2015, 01:19:43 PM
Germany Ascendant : WWI Eastern Front book #2 should be released today. Hope to have my grubby prints on it soon if Amazon will cooperate.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on August 18, 2015, 01:34:31 PM
About halfway through The Long Earth, by Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 18, 2015, 07:37:22 PM
Slash - there's a book 2? Written by the same author?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 19, 2015, 10:46:51 AM
Yes. Book 1 was "Collision of Empires" covering 1914 East Front only, including Serbia of course. The second book covers 1915 and a third will finish out WWI in the east. All by Prit Buttar. The first book was a great read for me being somewhat ignorant of WWI in the east. One little niggly complaint was the maps weren't very detailed or helpful in understanding what's going on and where. And some of the battles are very fluid and hard to follow. But I liked it and can't wait for book 2. Should be here tomorrow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on August 19, 2015, 11:40:29 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 18, 2015, 11:21:00 AM
I'm still slowly making my way through A Time for Trumpets, about the Battle of the Bulge. Finished Red Storm Rising again, probably the 25th time or so I've read it over the years.

Do you find when you reread a book several times that you pickup on things that you either don't remember or you missed in previous readings. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 19, 2015, 01:08:00 PM
^ Sometimes. It's been a while since I've picked up Red Storm Rising and there were a few particular scenes I don't remember despite having read it so many times.

I had read A Time for Trumpets many years ago, once (late 80s or so). That book is rather heavy on details in the trenches and not so much the big picture, which is an interesting perspective.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on August 19, 2015, 10:29:35 PM
Just finished the last book of the Black Company Chronicles. It's a shame it's finished, I loved every word of this series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 19, 2015, 10:48:56 PM
Was that the first or second series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on August 20, 2015, 02:10:00 AM
All of them. :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: agrippamaxentius on August 21, 2015, 03:07:17 PM
 A Roadside Picnic
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 23, 2015, 06:26:49 PM
Reading Left of Bang, which I recommend everyone read to protect their family. The Marines that got the training described, said they wish they had it before going on tour. Nuff said.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on August 23, 2015, 09:36:08 PM
Just about to start Sven Hassel's "Legion of the Damned". After finishing O'Brian's "Master and Commander" and Dewey Lambdin's "The Invasion Year" from the Alan Lewrie series, I felt like a WW2 novel from the German side and found out about Hassel's series.

After that I have Conrad's "Heart of Darkness" lined up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 24, 2015, 10:55:57 AM
Aside from my usual research reading (which wouldn't apply well here), I'm still working through the web serial novel/series Worm (about a world infested with superheros and supervillains).

Definitely needs a bit of grammar and punctuation editing (the latter moreso than the former), but it continues to be extremely well plotted. The author deserves to do well when he or she gets around to self-publishing. (Naturally a publisher will be a bit loath to pick up the book/series since it's already freely 'published' on the web.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on August 24, 2015, 01:17:16 PM
I also just finished reading This Book Is Full Of Spiders.

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 24, 2015, 01:25:45 PM
Quote from: Nefaro on August 24, 2015, 01:17:16 PM
I also just finished reading This Book Is Full Of Spiders.

O0

A web novel?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on August 25, 2015, 06:42:52 AM
Quote from: mirth on August 24, 2015, 01:25:45 PM
Quote from: Nefaro on August 24, 2015, 01:17:16 PM
I also just finished reading This Book Is Full Of Spiders.

O0

A web novel?

Written with someone like Martok in mind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 29, 2015, 06:15:40 PM
I'm reading a dull book, which is not bad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 29, 2015, 07:12:39 PM
I'm more or less done with In A Sunburned Country now. I started reading Max Hastings' Overlord: D-Day and the Battle for Normandy.

I can't get through A Time for Trumpets. I feel like I need a goddamned atlas or Google Maps to keep track of everything.


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 10, 2015, 07:22:40 AM
Today my copy of 'Ardennes 1944 - Hitler's Last Gamble' by Antony Beevor arrived. If its up to his usual standard, it should be an excellent read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2015, 11:01:09 AM
Currently reading "The Lesser Dead" by Christopher Buehlman, a vampire story set in New York City in 1978.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 10, 2015, 07:11:13 PM
Gus, have you read The Island at the Center of the World? It's about Manhattan's origins as a Dutch colony and it's impact on subsequent American history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2015, 07:32:33 PM
^By Russell Shorto? Why yes, yes I have. Loved it. I wish there were more books on Manhattan's Dutch history...they are few and far between whether fiction or not. When I become a published author, I am going to write some fiction set in 17th century New Amsterdam to fill the void. 'Tis my mission.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 10, 2015, 10:26:43 PM
Hip deep in, "Germany Ascendant" WWI in the east 1915. So far just as good as the first book but not gooder, and the annoyingly poor maps continue.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 10, 2015, 10:47:25 PM
Those who Dare by Phil Ward is a kindle freebee today. It is one of a series of "historical fiction", if that makes sense. Maybe revisionist historical  fiction?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 13, 2015, 09:59:58 AM
I've been reading a bunch of Terry Pratchett Diskworld books.

Finished: Going Postal.
Rereading: Mort
Purchased: Small Gods.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 13, 2015, 06:13:58 PM
Airborne: The Combat Story of Ed Shames of Easy Company

Is $1.99 today. AR probably has it already, if not, heads up!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 13, 2015, 06:32:36 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 13, 2015, 06:13:58 PM
Airborne: The Combat Story of Ed Shames of Easy Company

Is $1.99 today. AR probably has it already, if not, heads up!

Thanks!

Lazy Link for the rest of you... (http://www.amazon.com/Airborne-Combat-Company-General-Military-ebook/dp/B00O6UCY2M/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 16, 2015, 09:14:23 PM
http://www.amazon.com/WIRED-Douglas-E-Richards-ebook/dp/B007EWJBIE/ref=sr_1_1_ha?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1442455743&sr=1-1&keywords=Wired

Recommended. I'm half way through this quite enjoyable thriller. Get it, you will like it.  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on September 17, 2015, 08:15:45 AM
Remember this plea from our Glorious Leader when shopping at Amazon:

http://grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=14554.msg386356#new

O0

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 17, 2015, 03:28:15 PM
When I moved earlier this summer, I discovered (to my everlasting disgust) that at some point I'd apparently managed to permanently misplace several of my favorite Star Wars novels, including all three books of Timothy Zahn's Thrawn trilogy.  >:(  Feeling a strong desire to reread them, and having concluded (after repeated failed searches of my remaining unpacked boxes) that I wasn't going to find them again, I finally bit the bullet a couple weeks ago and re-ordered them from my local bookstore.  When I picked them up (shortly after Labor Day), I'll admit I suffered a pretty bad case of nerd rage seeing that lame-ass "Legends" banner across the front of all three books, but at least I had them in my possession again. 

In any case, I'm now reading the series for the first time in ages (it's quite possibly been ten years at this point), and I'm definitely enjoying it; I'd already plowed through Heir to the Empire last week, and will finish off Dark Force Rising tonight, leaving The Last Command to get me through my next seven-day work stretch (or at least through the weekend).  I'll admit I wasn't sure how much I'd like the books now that I'm a little older, but I'm happy to report they still seem to hold up pretty well.  It's good to know Zahn's magic hasn't lost its touch for me.  :) 




Quote from: Nefaro on August 25, 2015, 06:42:52 AM
Quote from: mirth on August 24, 2015, 01:25:45 PM
Quote from: Nefaro on August 24, 2015, 01:17:16 PM
I also just finished reading This Book Is Full Of Spiders.

O0

A web novel?

Written with someone like Martok in mind.
I still don't think I wanna know... 




Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on August 29, 2015, 06:15:40 PM
I'm reading a dull book, which is not bad.
How so?  Are trying to go to sleep or something? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 19, 2015, 04:13:50 PM
Welcome back Martok, you cut your way past the web that had cornered you?

It's like textbooks, sometimes you consume dry food for the protein. If you need to know, you read it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 22, 2015, 01:12:00 PM
Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 19, 2015, 04:13:50 PM
Welcome back Martok, you cut your way past the web that had cornered you?
Thanks Kev!  Yeah, my life is slowly, finally beginning to return to a semblance of normalcy.  :crazy2: 



Quote from: Mr. Bigglesworth on September 19, 2015, 04:13:50 PM
It's like textbooks, sometimes you consume dry food for the protein. If you need to know, you read it.
Ah, gotcha. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 22, 2015, 08:19:14 PM
Martok! Thank goodness you have returned! We worried about your absence in this thread (http://grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=14758.30) as well!  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on September 23, 2015, 03:19:18 PM
Hey bbmike!  Good to see you.  :) 


Damn LongBlade anyway.  Why must he create a politics thread I'm compelled to actually follow (and possibly participate in)?  Grrr...  ::) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on September 27, 2015, 07:09:03 AM
Now, Martok, appreciate that you were missed.  We could just as easily have celebrated with dance and song.  (Don't check LB's garbage cans.)

For World War II afficionadoes, a book that might round out your understanding of the Allied drive in France is Jacob Devers - A genral's life.
A number of other books have mentioned the feud between Ike and Devers, and that Bradley could be tactically inept.  (Heurtgen Forest, e.g.)  A pretty good look at the southern drive in France.  Speculates on what could have been accomplished if there were a southern push, coordinated with Patton's drive in the center.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 27, 2015, 09:35:21 AM
Currently reading The New York Grimpendium by J.W. Ocker. 'Tis the season.

http://www.amazon.com/New-York-Grimpendium-Macabre-Ghastly/dp/0881509906/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1443364482&sr=1-1-spell&keywords=Grimpendieum
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 27, 2015, 09:40:50 AM
Lawrence in Arabia: War, Deceit, Imperial Folly and the Making of the Modern Middle East by Scott Anderson

http://www.amazon.com/Lawrence-Arabia-Deceit-Imperial-Making/dp/0307476413

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 27, 2015, 01:16:20 PM
^Ooh how is that? Been on my to-read list for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on September 27, 2015, 07:38:52 PM
I'm about 100 pages into Robert K. Massie's "Castles of Steel: Britain, Germany, and the Winning of the Great War at Sea" and I'm really enjoying it. Just ordered another book of his: "Dreadnought".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 27, 2015, 07:51:04 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on September 27, 2015, 07:38:52 PM
I'm about 100 pages into Robert K. Massie's "Castles of Steel: Britain, Germany, and the Winning of the Great War at Sea" and I'm really enjoying it. Just ordered another book of his: "Dreadnought".

They are great books, both of them. I hate to say it but you may want to stop where you are then read 'Dreadnought' first since it sets the background for 'Castles of Steel'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 27, 2015, 08:16:11 PM
Dreadnought is one of my favorite history books of all time. I've got Castles of Steel but haven't taken the plunge yet. Massie is a great writer. Check out Peter the Great...another one of my favorite histories by Massie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 27, 2015, 08:28:41 PM
Don't remember if it was 'Castles...' or 'Dreadnought' that I read, but, it took a time period and subject I have less than zero interest in and made it fascinating.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 27, 2015, 08:33:17 PM
^Massie is excellent at that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on September 27, 2015, 10:28:01 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on September 27, 2015, 07:51:04 PM
They are great books, both of them. I hate to say it but you may want to stop where you are then read 'Dreadnought' first since it sets the background for 'Castles of Steel'.

That sounds like a good idea. Thanks for the tip.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 28, 2015, 08:50:20 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 27, 2015, 01:16:20 PM
^Ooh how is that? Been on my to-read list for a while.

It is excellent, extremely well written. I don't know a great deal about Lawrence or that period of Mid East history so I'm really enjoying it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on September 28, 2015, 10:18:06 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 27, 2015, 08:16:11 PM
Massie is a great writer. Check out Peter the Great...another one of my favorite histories by Massie.

Seconded.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 28, 2015, 06:40:45 PM
Killing Reagan by Bill O'Reilly. He's got another hit on his hands.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 11, 2015, 08:50:37 AM
Raylan by Elmore Leonard. I almost never read fiction these days and I have mixed feelings about Leonard as a writer, but I loved Justified. I did read one of Elmore's earlier books that had the Raylan Givens character - Pronto. Again mixed feelings.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 11, 2015, 11:19:41 AM
Quote from: Nefaro on September 28, 2015, 10:18:06 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 27, 2015, 08:16:11 PM
Massie is a great writer. Check out Peter the Great...another one of my favorite histories by Massie.

Seconded.

+1. Dreadnought/Castles of Steel and Peter the Great are some of my favorite books of all time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 11, 2015, 01:48:52 PM
^His last book was on Catherine the Great in 2011. He's 86 years old - I hope he has one more title left in him. Bonus tidbit: Massie lives about 25 miles away from me (and AR) in Irvington, NY. I substitute taught there about 15 years ago for a while. Beautiful town.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 11, 2015, 04:07:30 PM
I need to pick up his title on Catherine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 11, 2015, 04:33:00 PM
Me too. Still have to read my copy of Castles of Steel though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 11, 2015, 10:09:32 PM
I finished Japanese Destroyer Captain: Pearl Harbour, Guadalcanal, Midway - The Great Naval Battles Seen Through Japanese Eyes by Capt. Hara Tameichi last week.  It was quite good.  He was pretty critical of Yamamoto and the IJN high command.

I started listening to the audiobook version of The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire, 1936-1945 by John Toland.  At 41 hours of audio, it should keep me occupied on night shifts for the next while.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 12, 2015, 05:51:32 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 11, 2015, 10:09:32 PM
I started listening to the audiobook version of The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire, 1936-1945 by John Toland.  At 41 hours of audio, it should keep me occupied on night shifts for the next while.

Listening to this now as well when I run. Really enjoying it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on October 12, 2015, 08:04:46 PM
Hopefully, this time tomorrow I'll be reading Hell's Foundation Quiver.  The #8 book in David Weber's Safehold series. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 12, 2015, 10:13:26 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on October 12, 2015, 05:51:32 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 11, 2015, 10:09:32 PM
I started listening to the audiobook version of The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire, 1936-1945 by John Toland.  At 41 hours of audio, it should keep me occupied on night shifts for the next while.

Listening to this now as well when I run. Really enjoying it.

Me too.  My only gripe is that the narrator really should have been coached on the proper pronunciation of the Japanese used in the book.  He really butchers it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: manzikertca on October 13, 2015, 01:18:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 05, 2012, 01:58:28 PM
I am reading China Marches West: The Qing Conquest of Central Eurasia. It focuses on the interaction of the Mongols, Russians and Qing Chinese from the16th century til the 18th century. It is rather academic but something about it is very addictive too, I can't get enough of it. Probably because I haven't read a lot of Chinese history. Great book.

Link: http://www.amazon.com/China-Marches-West-Conquest-Central/dp/0674057430/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1330973795&sr=1-3
I have been interested in Chinese history myself,especially that connected with the great wall.Julia Lo..v.a.l.has written an historical account while others have concentrated on the purely military aspect and others on the cultural side of things.Seems the wall was never a single entity but a slow amalgamation that coalesced ,broke apart and again coalesced in a different form.

The Opium Wars by Julia L. is also I interesting in the aspect as to how those with an axe to grind have different versions,hers heavily resilient on contemporary British dispatches and minutes  of parliament more believable,especially when compared to that of the Chinese communist.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 14, 2015, 10:20:37 AM
Done with "Killing Reagan" and I'll give it a solid 7/10. Not as great as some of the other "Killing" books but very good with lots of stuff about Reagan's early days in Hollywood and anti-communist battles against the unions. Not so much about the Presidency though. A great read.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 14, 2015, 12:00:27 PM
Can anyone give me a good ghost story to read post-haste? I'm reading a decent one now but it's kinda girlie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 14, 2015, 01:51:07 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 14, 2015, 12:00:27 PM
Can anyone give me a good ghost story to read post-haste? I'm reading a decent one now but it's kinda girlie.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51BC0BKN5ML._SY344_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg&hash=22c0b7f31a4c3c736b26cd79d937187b2b654642)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 14, 2015, 02:02:30 PM
Just do what I do. Watch the Democratic debate. If Bernie isn't some kind of un-dead Zombie Spell-caster then I'll get new glasses. ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 14, 2015, 06:20:32 PM
Is that the Goosebumps with Bernie Sanders actually in it? Read that one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 14, 2015, 06:32:21 PM
Found something called Festung Europa: The Anglo-American/Nazi War. It reads like a history tome and describes WWII resulting in the Germans winning at Stalingrad and defeating Russia (the first major divergence from real-world time is in 1941 when the author states that the Germans stockpiled mass quantities of winter clothing in the summer, assuming they'd need them for occupation duties). The war continues for a bit after 1945, with the Allies now realizing they need about 600 divisions to successfully invade Western Europe (having a 3:1 ratio to have any chance to succeed).

It's a pretty fascinating read so far. It tells of the Germans invoking a massive ship-building program, as well as other big projects, all fueled by war spoils, resources, and factories taken from the USSR. The book hints at the war continuing in the 50s but with obviously more advanced weapons. Looking forward to getting that far into it.

http://www.amazon.com/Festung-Europa-The-Anglo-American-Nazi-ebook/dp/B015URFGEC
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 14, 2015, 07:25:24 PM
^Wow...that sounds fantastic.

No print version? :-[
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 14, 2015, 07:46:27 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 14, 2015, 07:25:24 PM
^Wow...that sounds fantastic.

No print version? :-[

Doesn't look like it, Gus. Do you have an iPad or smartphone that can download a Kindle app?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 15, 2015, 02:06:21 AM
I wanted to read something really different and decided upon Me, Katherine Hepburn's autobiography.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 15, 2015, 09:02:43 AM
That's kinda left field there Greybriar. Are you a big fan?

BC I don't have a tablet, my laptop is from 2005, and my phone is over 4 years old. Guess I am out of luck.

My gaming rig is damned sweet though :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 15, 2015, 10:08:27 AM
I started the third book in a 3-part series covering the battles for Rabaul during WWII.  Lots of great info and stories in there and it really helps flesh out my experiences playing the Coral Sea campaign in War in the Pacific and the early war Pacific air battles in Wing Leader.  It also compelled me to start working on a multi-mission campaign for Wing Leader.

The first book in the series, Invasion Rabaul: The Epic Story of Lark Force, the Forgotten Garrison, January - July 1942, was a little slow and somewhat depressing as it basically covered the experiences of a small garrison force of Australians as they were abandoned by their government and overrun by the Japanese.  It took me quite a while to plough through it  and I was a bit worried that the next two books would be more of the same but fortunately that wasn't the case.

The second book, Fortress Rabaul: The Battle for the Southwest Pacific, January 1942-April 1943 covers the battles for the Coral Sea and the early days of the air war around Rabaul and Port Moresby.   Fascinating stuff to read of the limitations of the P-39 and P-40s, the development of skip bombing, and so on.

The third book, Target: Rabaul: The Allied Siege of Japan's Most Infamous Stronghold, March 1943 - August 1945 looks at MacArthur's, Kenney's, and Halsey's battles in the Solomans, the air war over Rabaul, and the attacks on Truk.  I'm only about 100 pages in so far but it's really quite good so far.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 15, 2015, 12:47:16 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 15, 2015, 09:02:43 AM
That's kinda left field there Greybriar. Are you a big fan?....

I am probably less of a big fan of Hepburn's than I am of other old time movie stars like Bogart, Cagney, Stewart, etc. But she has played some damned fine roles (think of her part in the African Queen, for example). Since I knew absolutely nothing about her, I decided to read her autobiography which also served to get me out of the rut I have been in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 15, 2015, 04:12:41 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 15, 2015, 09:02:43 AM
That's kinda left field there Greybriar. Are you a big fan?

BC I don't have a tablet, my laptop is from 2005, and my phone is over 4 years old. Guess I am out of luck.

My gaming rig is damned sweet though :)

I have a tablet I'm not using that you can have. It's not new but it will do fine for an e-reader. PM me if you want it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 15, 2015, 07:40:14 PM
^Thanks for the offer. Is it capable of that new book smell?

Greybriar I just recently watched the African Queen...loved it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 19, 2015, 07:15:23 AM
Beware the Russian Bear.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1908699582?qid=1443952799&ref
Have not picked this up, but sounds very intriguing.  Anyone heard about it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 24, 2015, 11:18:44 PM
Reading the 2nd book in The Scourge series by Roberto Calas - Nostrum. Zombie armageddon in 14th century England.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 25, 2015, 03:34:38 AM
Love him or hate him I very nearly got junior into the last terry pratchett book - there's a small table in the local bookshop where you can read with the kids - read her a few pages but she wasn't keen - maybe next year
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 25, 2015, 11:04:25 AM
The Accountant's Story: Inside the Violent World of the Medellín Cartel
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on October 25, 2015, 05:31:28 PM
American Heritage History of World War II

$2.99 today on amazon. Note the History of the Civil War is also $2.99 today.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 25, 2015, 07:17:49 PM
I always loved those American Heritage histories.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on October 25, 2015, 08:58:51 PM
The many pictures in the hard copy versions of those book are NOT included. It's just the text.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 26, 2015, 06:28:14 PM
That sucks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 29, 2015, 07:13:59 PM
Out of the Silent Planet by C.S. Lewis
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 29, 2015, 08:15:05 PM
Read that trilogy many years ago.  Most of it was over my head, but, I gave it a shot.  Will get back to it again some day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 01, 2015, 11:27:05 AM
Lewis' Space Trilogy is definitely an acquired taste. It's a fond salute as well as an ideological critique of Wells and Verne (Verne himself cameos once or twice in That Hideous Strength -- inadvertently working for the villains), and the writing style reflects that. Not sure I've ever read the series more than twice, and I'm someone who appreciates his work a lot (theological and otherwise -- I'm one of the few living people who not only own a copy of Oxford's History of English Literature 16th Century Excluding Drama, but enjoyed reading it. {checking} Bleeping bleep, I may have a first edition!!  :o :o :o When people talk about how Lewis mostly gave up writing theology after WW2, I point out that that's because he spent 10 years working on the manuscript of what he testily nicknamed the OHEL during all his free time.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 07, 2015, 11:45:50 AM
Kindle deals

Warspite
THE GERMANS IN NORMANDY
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 09, 2015, 06:24:23 AM
Been on a bit of a Star Wars kick as of late.  It began with my (long overdue) rereading of the Thrawn trilogy, and I just finished rereading the Jedi Academy trilogy a day ago.  I enjoyed the latter well enough, but I understand now why Michael Stackpole wrote I, Jedi as a way to partially fix/retcon the trilogy into something more palatable. 

Have now started into Before the Storm, the first book in the Black Fleet Crisis trilogy.  Despite some weaknesses in the writing, the series remains a favorite of mine within the Expanded Universe. 




Quote from: OJsDad on October 12, 2015, 08:04:46 PM
Hopefully, this time tomorrow I'll be reading Hell's Foundation Quiver.  The #8 book in David Weber's Safehold series.
Holy crap, how'd I miss that??  I was even just at Barnes & Noble last Monday, and I didn't see it there.  ??? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 10, 2015, 10:26:57 PM
THe Patrol: Seven Days in the Life of a Canadian Soldier in Afghanistan [Kindle Edition]

http://www.amazon.ca/Patrol-Seven-Canadian-Soldier-Afghanistan-ebook/dp/B005JSMN6W/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1447212368&sr=1-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 11, 2015, 06:27:15 AM

Quote from: OJsDad on October 12, 2015, 08:04:46 PM
Hopefully, this time tomorrow I'll be reading Hell's Foundation Quiver.  The #8 book in David Weber's Safehold series.


Have the Charisians deployed collimated energy weapons yet? At the very least they must have learned to split the atom by now.  :))
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on November 11, 2015, 08:02:55 PM
I'm well along with On Basilisk Station now.

Just started Waterloo: The History of Four Days, Three Armies, and Three Battles by Bernard Cornwell
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 12, 2015, 08:28:18 PM
So I just finished a novel called The 13th Valley by John Del Vecchio:  http://www.amazon.com/13th-Valley-John-Del-Vecchio/dp/0982167040/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1447377239&sr=1-1&keywords=the+13th+valley

It is one of those books where I'm not entirely sure if I liked it or not, but I'm glad I read it.  It is a fictional story about a company of grunts that goes into an NVA area to root them out.  I've read some on Vietnam, but this book certainly gave me a deeper appreciation of what it must have been like to be an infantryman in the field.  It was pretty brutal.  I'm someone that feels kind of grossed out if I don't get to brush my teeth before 10am on the weekend, so the idea of living in the same clothes in a swamp for a week covered in mud, shit, leeches, and whatever else is pretty gnarly.

The reason the book isn't a full two thumbs up hearty endorsement is that Del Vecchio spends quite a bit of time going back in time and talking about the soldiers' relationships.  It's not that it isn't interesting, but I'm not a fan of books that do this.  I just read, though, that Del Vecchio has a degree in psychology and that makes sense as he spends a great deal of time exploring the psychological aspects of the characters.  What I mean is that there is a lot of behind the scenes introspection that fleshes out the action parts of the book.

I felt like the ending was fairly well set up- you just know something bad is going to happen- but I didn't like it regardless.  I would have preferred some happy happy at the end.

It's pretty long- it took me a while to get through- but I'm not someone that routinely finishes novels so I will give it a tentative recommendation.  I am posting a 5 star review at the bottom that pretty much echoes my own thoughts.  There is a lot going on in this book; I might need to read it again to pick up all of the things I missed the first time through.

I guess if you like Ralph Peters' books you might like this.  It kind of reminded me of his style, but darker, and more exposition.

From Amazon:

A work that has served as a literary cornerstone for the Vietnam generation, The 13th Valley follows the strange and terrifying Vietnam combat experiences of James Chelini, a telephone-systems installer who finds himself an infantryman in territory controlled by the North Vietnamese Army. Spiraling deeper and deeper into a world of conflict and darkness, this harrowing account of Chelini's plunge and immersion into jungle warfare traces his evolution from a semipacifist to an all-out warmonger. The seminal novel on the Vietnam experience, The 13th Valley is a classic that illuminates the war in Southeast Asia like no other book.

5 Star Review that I more or less agree with:

This book rates with the finest novels and films that portray the Journey of the Hero as presented by the great mythologist Joseph Campbell. The symbolism, layering, Jungian archetypes, foreshadowing, and journey itself make this much more than just one of the best novels about the Vietnam War. I have been teaching this novel in my college English class now for seven years, most often to students who have never even heard of this war. They don't like the novel at first, don't understand the military acronyms, don't like looking them up in the glossary, have trouble with the gruesome depiction and language of war, and have little interest a time period that seems ancient to them. But watch the students change as they read two chapters a week and are assigned essays on the morality of war and on the symbolic meaning of the soldiers' journey to the tree at the center of the valley, where an unseen enemy awaits. The spider, the labyrinth of trails, the fog, the nightly dreams, the cave carved from elephant grass where the soldiers hide, the number 13 everywhere (what's that all about?), the philosophical discussions around the command post on the origins of war, and why....on and on it goes as the class is swept along and into the tale, building to an emotional climax that raises the hair on your skin, leaves you weeping...all the while following the steps of the journey: the call of the hero, the refusal of the call, the crossing of the threshold, the belly of the whale, the mentor, the refusal of the return, and so on. You can take every step with the soldiers of Alpha Company in the same way you can choose to see the deeper layerings in the Star Wars films--meanings that may or may not be there--it's your choice--the enlightenment of Buddha, the crucifixion of Christ, the heart of a woman's soul, and the indestructible massive tree that has existed from the beginning of time, long before the film Avatar ever was conceived. It is heartening to see the release of the new 30th anniversary edition of this novel. The author began exploring these deeper themes and layered meanings years before they became popular, and the story and message remain as true now as the day the novel was published. Disagree with his ideas and conclusions if you want--this is a challenge I pose to students each semester; nevertheless, the novel is more than just a classic of the Vietnam War. I cannot wait to begin anew each semester as Cherry, Egan, Brooks, El Paso, and Minh embark on their epic quest!

Edit-

And here is a 2 Star Review I also agree with.  Perhaps this is why I ultimately enjoyed the book; there is a lot going on beyond just the surface action parts.  There's meat.  Whether it's good meat, or bad meat, I'm still not sure.  I also found there to be some suspension of disbelief at the long discourses these guys got into.

The bare bones of this book is good -- great actually. A Vietnam War story from someone who has actually been there and knows what he is talking about. The material about the routines of the everyday soldier, the tactics and combat sequences - this is great stuff - intense and gripping. But a lot about the characters in the novel is entirely unbelievable.
Alpha company of the 'four o' deuce' seems to contain nearly every amateur philosopher in Vietnam and the book goes into L--O--N--G stretches of dialogue about war and the nature of human conflict. I just cannot see these words coming out of the mouths of ordinary soldiers, especially the grunts of Vietnam. The graduate school level arguments of the causes of human conflict are jarring when you come across them and seem to go on forever. These guys are in the bush, surrounded by enemies, and instead of talking about how they are going to get Charlie and get out alive they are conversing about their philosophy of human behavior?
A very large section near the end of the book is a verbatim rendering of the Lieutenant's graduate thesis on the basis of human conflict. I found it to be un-readable tripe. I guess this is the author's moral or message. He would be better served if his philosophizing wasn't so heavy handed. Open discussion of homosexual fantasies amongst soldiers in 1970? Not buying it. The character 'Cherry' going from FNG to cold blooded killer in 2 weeks? Not buying that either.
Before you buy this book rent the movie "The Thin Red Line". If you think ordinary soldiers think and talk in long philosophical introspective reflections on the meaning of life and you enjoyed that movie you will enjoy this book. If you are looking for intense battle sequences and gritty, realistic Vietnam action it is in here too. But is is surrounded and eventually submerged in so much unbelievable characterization by the end I felt like I was the one slogging thru the jungle.
Forewarned is forearmed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on November 13, 2015, 04:12:29 AM
If you want to read a good fictional story of a grunt in Vietnam, try FNG by Donald Bodey. The dialogue and action in it ring true. I've read this book multiple times over the years, even going so far to get another copy after my first one was lost. I rank it right up there with Chickenhawk

edit: it's actually out on kindle too:
http://www.amazon.com/F-N-G-Reflections-America-Don-Bodey-ebook/dp/B003L7803I/ref=la_B001HPP84A_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1447406046&sr=1-1 (http://www.amazon.com/F-N-G-Reflections-America-Don-Bodey-ebook/dp/B003L7803I/ref=la_B001HPP84A_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1447406046&sr=1-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on November 18, 2015, 05:03:39 PM
Quote from: Martok on November 09, 2015, 06:24:23 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on October 12, 2015, 08:04:46 PM
Hopefully, this time tomorrow I'll be reading Hell's Foundation Quiver.  The #8 book in David Weber's Safehold series.
Holy crap, how'd I miss that??  I was even just at Barnes & Noble last Monday, and I didn't see it there.  ???

That knock on the door is the Inquisition coming to have a chat with you. 

Seriously, I think this is the weakest of the series so far.  It just didn't draw me in.  I don't know if it seemed like a lot of the same or because most of the biggest surprises seemed to be released with the snippets.  I started to reread Off Armageddon Reef and was more drawn in by it than by HFQ.  At this point, I'm truly hoping that the next book is the last one. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 19, 2015, 07:27:06 AM
Thanks Pinetree.  I'll keep an eye out for that at the library.

I started Matterhorn, which was very favorably reviewed, but it's not drawing me in nearly as strongly as 13th Valley. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 19, 2015, 07:48:57 AM
I finished reading Antony Beevor's D-Day finally, about a week ago, after getting bits and pieces here and there. Fantastic book covering the Western campaign of World War II from D-Day preparations through the liberation of Paris. I also really like his Berlin book as well.

I decided to try to read Team Yankee again...I had tried many moons ago and it just didn't do it for me. The writing is pretty...well, I can't quite describe it other than 'simplistic.' Harold Coyle did a bit better over the years though not by much. He strikes me as being very similar to Harry Turtledove - having really great ideas but not being very good at pulling them off.  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on November 19, 2015, 07:56:59 AM
I liked Team Yankee when I read it.  To compare Coyle to Turtledove is a complete insult to Coyle. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 19, 2015, 08:03:36 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on November 19, 2015, 07:56:59 AM
I liked Team Yankee when I read it.  To compare Coyle to Turtledove is a complete insult to Coyle.

I wasn't comparing them except to say I had a hard time getting through their books...I'm drawn in by the subject matter, but the execution was never good. I think it's better to describe this as being disappointed rather than disgusted.

I did read a lot of Coyle though...his ideas were better than Turtledove's. Trial By Fire, Sword Point, Bright Star...Sword Point was probably my favorite out of all of them. And I'd read Harold Coyle before I ever even glance at a Turtledove book again.

I swore off Turtledove for good after slogging through his Invasion series. I kept expecting something big to happen but all I ended up reading was a mediocre alien-lizards-invade-Earth series.

Also, Turtledove's publishers are assholes. (First hand knowledge.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 19, 2015, 08:48:47 AM
Ooh tell us more...

And I will read anything by Beevor. Great writer and historian. He can make his morning bathroom routine read like a battle AAR.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 19, 2015, 12:26:26 PM
I didn't care for Team Yankee either, BC.  Concur- the writing is pretty simplistic.  Compared to something meaty like Red Army it really reads like a junior varsity effort.

I wanted to like it.  I read it 3 times, but have always given up before the end.  I think I have about 50 pages left...maybe I'll just knock the book out over the holiday and be done with it. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 19, 2015, 12:47:43 PM
Funny thing about Team Yankee is, back in the late 80s or very early 90s, someone released a comic book series based on the novel. I bought the comics but even then thought it was kind of mediocre. The only thing I remember is them falling asleep and suddenly waking up going "OH SHI-" or something like that. Not very memorable.

IIRC Coyle was a Major in the Army when he wrote Team Yankee...so he knew his stuff from a procedural standpoint, but ultimately his characters weren't very engaging (except Bannon, and even then, he's kind of dull).

+1 on Red Army. I didn't like it at first, but read it again and really enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 22, 2015, 01:47:14 PM
Your Job And How Technology Will Change It

http://www.amazon.com/Your-Job-Technology-Will-Change-ebook/dp/B00LB73F4Y (http://www.amazon.com/Your-Job-Technology-Will-Change-ebook/dp/B00LB73F4Y)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 22, 2015, 03:01:12 PM
I totally gave up on Team Yankee again - I just can't do it.

Thinking of starting to read Snow Crash.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 22, 2015, 03:19:33 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 22, 2015, 03:01:12 PM
I totally gave up on Team Yankee again - I just can't do it.

Thinking of starting to read Snow Crash.

Coyle's writing gets better a few books in. I went from Team Yankee right to The Ten Thousand, which I enjoyed a lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on November 22, 2015, 03:55:27 PM
The Martian. Pretty good so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 22, 2015, 04:39:48 PM
Just finished The Picts by Tim Clarkson which is a little dense and hard to follow as it is kind of academic...but still interesting. And now starting The Brooklyn Navy Yard by Thomas F. Berner, one of those Images of America books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 22, 2015, 07:28:06 PM
I did read The Ten Thousand some time ago. The premise was far out there but the story was well done.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 22, 2015, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 22, 2015, 07:28:06 PM
I did read The Ten Thousand some time ago. The premise was far out there but the story was well done.

Believe it or not Larry Bond actually wrote a book along similar lines. In his book the French and Germans were actually working together.  ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on November 22, 2015, 08:09:35 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 22, 2015, 07:36:53 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 22, 2015, 07:28:06 PM
I did read The Ten Thousand some time ago. The premise was far out there but the story was well done.

Believe it or not Larry Bond actually wrote a book along similar lines. In his book the French and Germans were actually working together.  ???

Yeah, those books were written back in the mid '90s when we were trying to figure out who our enemies would be after the Soviet Union collapsed. Lots of odd plotlines came out of that time; Germans, Germans and French, South Africans, Japanese...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on November 23, 2015, 02:44:23 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 22, 2015, 08:09:35 PM
Yeah, those books were written back in the mid '90s when we were trying to figure out who our enemies would be after the Soviet Union collapsed. Lots of odd plotlines came out of that time; Germans, Germans and French, South Africans, Japanese...
Hell, I think I even read all those. I think it's The Ten Thousand, Cauldron, Vortex, and War in 2020 respectively?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 06:43:05 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on November 23, 2015, 02:44:23 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 22, 2015, 08:09:35 PM
Yeah, those books were written back in the mid '90s when we were trying to figure out who our enemies would be after the Soviet Union collapsed. Lots of odd plotlines came out of that time; Germans, Germans and French, South Africans, Japanese...
Hell, I think I even read all those. I think it's The Ten Thousand, Cauldron, Vortex, and War in 2020 respectively?

Correct on all. You could throw in Debt of Honor for the Japanese, and some almost conflict with India in Executive Orders as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 23, 2015, 07:12:38 AM
I remember War in 2020. I actually finished that one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:33:34 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 23, 2015, 07:12:38 AM
I remember War in 2020. I actually finished that one.

Written by Ralph Peters. I can't recall now but was that the novel featuring the new 'Zero', a fifth-gen Japanese fighter? Or was that one of Clancy's books?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on November 23, 2015, 08:52:10 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 06:43:05 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on November 23, 2015, 02:44:23 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 22, 2015, 08:09:35 PM
Yeah, those books were written back in the mid '90s when we were trying to figure out who our enemies would be after the Soviet Union collapsed. Lots of odd plotlines came out of that time; Germans, Germans and French, South Africans, Japanese...
Hell, I think I even read all those. I think it's The Ten Thousand, Cauldron, Vortex, and War in 2020 respectively?

Correct on all. You could throw in Debt of Honor for the Japanese, and some almost conflict with India in Executive Orders as well.
I'd forgotten about Debt of Honour,  it wasn't a bad book but in my view it was the start of his decline. I remember all the hoo-haa about the book after 9/11.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on November 23, 2015, 08:54:25 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 23, 2015, 07:12:38 AM
I remember War in 2020. I actually finished that one.
It's interesting comparing that book, which was written when the Cold War was ending, and The War After Armageddon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 23, 2015, 09:07:38 AM
Since I gave up on Team Yankee, I landed on In the President's Secret Service: Behind the Scenes with Agents in the Line of Fire and the Presidents They Protect. Two chapters in so far and it's an interesting read, going into the history of the Secret Service (and what it was before it was the 'Secret Service'). Already talked about Kennedy's indiscretions in the White House and there's a lot of book left, so I'm interested in seeing what happens next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 09:42:45 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:33:34 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 23, 2015, 07:12:38 AM
I remember War in 2020. I actually finished that one.

Written by Ralph Peters. I can't recall now but was that the novel featuring the new 'Zero', a fifth-gen Japanese fighter? Or was that one of Clancy's books?

I know which book you're talking about. Can't remember the author or title, but it wasn't Clancy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:05:57 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 09:42:45 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:33:34 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 23, 2015, 07:12:38 AM
I remember War in 2020. I actually finished that one.

Written by Ralph Peters. I can't recall now but was that the novel featuring the new 'Zero', a fifth-gen Japanese fighter? Or was that one of Clancy's books?

I know which book you're talking about. Can't remember the author or title, but it wasn't Clancy.

If it jogs anyone's memory, the Zeros had some kind of partial visual stealth ability.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 23, 2015, 07:16:00 PM
Embarrassingly I'm just now getting around to reading The Guns of August by Tuchman.  I also have a book in my Kindle called Poilu which is a memoir by an infantryman in WW1.  My WW1 knowledge is hella-weak and playing Verdun has inspired me to learn a bit more.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 23, 2015, 08:45:09 PM
Barbara Tuchman, by chance? She writes a lot of history books though I've not read anything by her. I have something of hers on my Kindle called A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century that I want to get to soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 23, 2015, 08:54:56 PM
I loved A Distant Mirror and The Proud Tower (Europe 1890 - 1914) but you know what? I hated Guns of August! It just bored me to tears. And I will read anything on WWI.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 23, 2015, 08:58:34 PM
What about The Arms of Krupp? Anyone read that?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 23, 2015, 09:25:20 PM
I seem to remember reading a positive review of The Arms Of Krupp.  As for A Distant Mirror..., I started it in the height of my Medieval history craze and I gave up.  Don't remember why.  Could have been too dense.  Might have been writing style.  Possibly something shinier came along.  I should get back to it someday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 09:42:11 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:05:57 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 09:42:45 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:33:34 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 23, 2015, 07:12:38 AM
I remember War in 2020. I actually finished that one.

Written by Ralph Peters. I can't recall now but was that the novel featuring the new 'Zero', a fifth-gen Japanese fighter? Or was that one of Clancy's books?

I know which book you're talking about. Can't remember the author or title, but it wasn't Clancy.

If it jogs anyone's memory, the Zeros had some kind of partial visual stealth ability.

Fortunes of War by Stephen Coontz. It was actually pretty terrible.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 24, 2015, 08:05:28 AM
A Distant Mirror is fantastic.  Can you believe I picked up a hard copy of that at a thrift shop on the Big Island of all places?  It was sitting outside on the sidewalk on this shelf with some other books, it looked interesting, and for $1 I gave it a try.  I very highly recommend it.

Thanks for the feedback on Guns, Gus.  I'm about 10% in and I am simply bored to tears.  I'm trying so hard to stick with it, but I am having real trouble keeping motivation....it's really bad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 24, 2015, 09:31:32 AM
I felt exactly the same way. I think I got 100 pages in and gave up, which is saying something because my OCD rarely lets me give up...I usually skim and then call it a day. But I too was bored to tears.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 24, 2015, 06:29:01 PM
About to start "Murder as a Fine Art" by David Morrell to along with my intro to Assassin's Creed Syndicate.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 24, 2015, 07:40:05 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 09:42:11 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:05:57 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on November 23, 2015, 09:42:45 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 23, 2015, 07:33:34 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 23, 2015, 07:12:38 AM
I remember War in 2020. I actually finished that one.

Written by Ralph Peters. I can't recall now but was that the novel featuring the new 'Zero', a fifth-gen Japanese fighter? Or was that one of Clancy's books?

I know which book you're talking about. Can't remember the author or title, but it wasn't Clancy.

If it jogs anyone's memory, the Zeros had some kind of partial visual stealth ability.

Fortunes of War by Stephen Coontz. It was actually pretty terrible.

Explains why the Zero is the only thing I remember.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on November 25, 2015, 07:08:05 AM
Quote from: Toonces on November 23, 2015, 07:16:00 PM
Embarrassingly I'm just now getting around to reading The Guns of August by Tuchman.  I also have a book in my Kindle called Poilu which is a memoir by an infantryman in WW1.  My WW1 knowledge is hella-weak and playing Verdun has inspired me to learn a bit more.

I'd also recommend checking out some of the WWI pilots' memoirs.  There are some great ones out there.

I think you can find Eddie Rickenbacker's Fighting The Flying Circus for free on the 'net, in the public domain.  Or dirt cheap digital reader versions.  It's a very good read.

No Parachute by Arthur Gould Lee is a similar one, covering an earlier period from a British pilot.

Makes you think those guys were a bit crazy for climbing into those old canvas death traps back then, to be shot at from all directions.  They definitely convey how lucky each thought they were for repeatedly surviving so many brushes with death.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on November 25, 2015, 07:24:57 AM
Quote from: Gusington on November 24, 2015, 09:31:32 AM
I felt exactly the same way. I think I got 100 pages in and gave up, which is saying something because my OCD rarely lets me give up...I usually skim and then call it a day. But I too was bored to tears.

I actually really enjoyed Guns o August, but I also listened to it as an audio book on a road trip. Come to think of it though , it was one of the few audio books the wife has told me she thought was boring...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 25, 2015, 12:55:26 PM
I can understand its value as a text, but a lot of.what I read in college and grad school on WWI was much better. GoA was superdry for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 25, 2015, 11:10:04 PM
Just finished "Germany Ascendant" Prit Buttar's second of three books about WWI on the Eastern Front. Both books are great especially if you're like me generally ignorant of the war in the east's details. Lots of insight of the conflict between Gen. Falkenhayn and Austria's Gen. Conrad over strategy and priorities during the 1915 campaign. This book covers just 1915 with the first book covering the first year of the war in the east. The only minor complaint I have is again the maps in the book while functional, aren't that well done. But at 400+ pages, you get plenty of details and info. Can't wait for book three.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on November 26, 2015, 09:06:09 AM
Frank Chadwick's trilogy continues.

http://www.fictiondb.com/author/frank-chadwick~come-the-revolution~1255655~b.htm
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on November 26, 2015, 09:13:50 AM
IIRC, Guns was Barbara Tuchman's first mass market book.  At the time, must have been about 1963, the Kennedy Assassination was very fresh. 
The destruction of Europe and a whole way of life, made it faschinating in a train wreck sort of way.  You knew the results were terrible, but couldn't make yourself look away.  There was a scenario that many people at the time was happening to the world again.

Her style got better as she did more.  An odd confluence between Distant Mirror and Guns would be Engourand DeCoucy and his Tower.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 28, 2015, 05:56:25 PM
If SPECTRE sucks, you can try escape to the imperium's service for a couple bucks. :D

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KCLJ39G

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 28, 2015, 07:10:46 PM
^For three bucks what could go wrong?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on November 29, 2015, 11:49:32 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on November 25, 2015, 11:10:04 PM
Just finished "Germany Ascendant" Prit Buttar's second of three books about WWI on the Eastern Front. Both books are great especially if you're like me generally ignorant of the war in the east's details. Lots of insight of the conflict between Gen. Falkenhayn and Austria's Gen. Conrad over strategy and priorities during the 1915 campaign. This book covers just 1915 with the first book covering the first year of the war in the east. The only minor complaint I have is again the maps in the book while functional, aren't that well done. But at 400+ pages, you get plenty of details and info. Can't wait for book three.

Collision of Empires is the only one that I have so far, but its an excellent read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on November 30, 2015, 05:06:33 PM
Raylan by Elmore Leonard.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on November 30, 2015, 11:23:40 PM
Kindle freebie

The Start of World War II: The History of the Events that Culminated with Nazi Germany's Invasion of Poland [Kindle Edition]
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 01, 2015, 05:41:23 PM
Finally finished Worm the other day, the super-long superhero webseries of novels. (Well, about ten epic-fantasy sized novels' worth of material, probably to be expanded by a book or two when-if-ever the author gets around to editing it for print publishing.)

Without going into story spoilers, I continue to recommend it for anyone interested in epic superhero sci-fi / fantasy. The plotlines were mostly tied up well, which is impressive considering the number of sideplots and levels of main plot going on -- I thought a few things might have been dropped by the wayside (primarily concerning a hint that a major arc villain had been cloned and the original is still waiting in stasis somewhere, although maybe that's a mistaken impression), but the author was also setting up lines for a sequel series someday. The final fate of the heroine seemed a bit of a narrative cheat to me -- concerning a detail I won't go into -- but was otherwise fitting.

Longblade might especially appreciate it as a fellow Aquaman fan, since the concept could be construed as: what if Aquaman had no other powers than control of sealife, only that was bugs instead, and was also a teenaged girl? (Incoming jokes in 3... 2...)  ::)

The eventually-huge cast of characters is juggled nicely, with plenty of different kinds of tactical and strategic plotting. Cataclysmic threats are well established yet also frequent yet usually there's enough downtime between threats to appreciate a gain in competency in dealing with lesser problems. By the last several story arcs, all focused on dealing with one single uber-threat, this structure breaks down and leads necessarily to some crisis-fatigue; but on one hand the author wants to emphasize just how much of a final threat the situation is, and on the other hand incorporates crisis-fatigue into the characters, too, so makes a feature out of what might well otherwise be a drawback for the reader.

My strongest complaint is that the author never seems to bother to learn to improve his or her punctuation and capitalization problems, and occasional other minor grammar problems, which to me seemed consistent over the course of about 1.6 million words. I could look past it for the quality of the work otherwise, but I was never not-distracted by it.

I will definitely be donating ten-large-books' worth of money to the author for his or her efforts (the author goes by the handle "wildbowpig" or more often "wildbow"), and I sure don't mind plugging it for anyone interested in the genre. If reading teen-high-girl fiction is not to your taste, well it wasn't for me, either, but that goes largely by the side after the first 'book' worth, and I think readers will find much else to appreciate along the way. (If on the other hand you like that sort of thing.... well, it goes largely by the side after the first 'book' worth, so...  :P )

My best compliment is that, toward the end, I actually dreamed about the plot situation (generally speaking) once or twice, which is something that rarely happens.  8)

Back to reading Christian-history works for my other hobby for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 03, 2015, 01:52:37 PM
I've recently read:
A US History of the 1920s.
PJ O'Rourke's collection of stories about cars.
Several SF novels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 03, 2015, 02:49:55 PM
I'm reading To Command the Sky: The Battle for Air Superiority Over Germany, 1942-1944 by Stephen McFarland.  It's a very detailed look at the tactics, the technical constraints, and the mindsets of the command staffs and how they shaped the battle for air superiority over the day skies of Western Europe.  It's quite good so far.  It's provided me with a lot of new information as to how and why the forces of the USAAF, the RAF, and the Luftwaffe were shaped prior to and during the war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 03, 2015, 04:11:49 PM
Finally picked up my own copy of Red Storm Rising the other day.  Haven't read it forever, so I'm looking forward to this. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 03, 2015, 05:34:32 PM
^^ One of my favorite books ever.  :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 03, 2015, 10:57:18 PM
A quote for you guys hatin on Guns of August

"Other groups in the Turkish government would have preferred an alliance with the Entente, if it had been obtainable, in the hope of buying off Russia , Turkey's age-old enemy. For ten centuries Russia had yearned for Constantinople, the city Russians called Czargrad that lay at the exit of the Black Sea.
...

Turkey had one asset of inestimable value— her geographical position at the junction of the paths of empire. For that reason England had been for a hundred years Turkey's traditional protector, but the truth was that England no longer took Turkey seriously.
...

England was at last beginning to tire of the fetters that bound her to what Winston Churchill amicably called "scandalous, crumbling, decrepit, penniless Turkey."The Turkish reputation for misrule, corruption, and cruelty had been a stench in the nostrils of Europe for a long time. The Liberals who had governed England since 1906 were the inheritors of Gladstone's celebrated appeal to expel the unspeakable Turk, "the one great anti-human specimen of humanity,"from Europe. Their policy was shaped by an image half Sick Man, half Terrible Turk. Lord Salisbury's sporting metaphor after the Crimean War, "We have put our money on the wrong horse,"acquired the status of prophecy. British influence at the Porte was allowed to lapse just at the time when it might have proved beyond price."


2014 Random House Trade Paperbacks Edition Copyright © 1962 by Barbara W. Tuchman

:P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 06, 2015, 10:30:06 AM
^ Heh.

That is exactly where I am in the book right now- I read that paragraph last night in fact.

I'm still slogging through it.  It actually is getting better now that we're through all the foreplay at the beginning.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 06, 2015, 02:14:48 PM
I fell asleep during the foreplay. And you all know how I feel about foreplay. And WWI.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 06, 2015, 07:46:30 PM
October Men, by Anthony Price.
Price wrote at the same time as John LeCarre, and was not as well renowned.  I think most of that was pure snobbery.  No one can do opaque and confusing like LeCarre.
However, Price writes great spy stories that seem to be clear, when he pulls deep surprises and leaves you shocked and amazed.  His protagonist, David Audley, is also deeply interested in history, and many of the stories revolve around this. Which makes it great for wargamers who also like history.
October Men is great for the way a german business man double crosses the Stasi, the KGB, the british, and an international Italian oilman.  Yet he never appears because he died mysteriously before the book begins. 
And General Montori, the head of the Italian secret police, has a chance to settle a debt going back to World War II.
Just a great ride if you like spy fiction.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 07, 2015, 02:27:37 PM
Hunting Hitler: New Scientific Evidence that Hitler Escaped Nazi Germany by Jerome R. Corsi
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 07, 2015, 03:09:08 PM
France at Bay 1870-1871: The Struggle for Paris by Douglas Fermer
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on December 08, 2015, 06:36:44 AM
Quote from: Martok on December 03, 2015, 04:11:49 PM
Finally picked up my own copy of Red Storm Rising the other day.  Haven't read it forever, so I'm looking forward to this.

Found a mint hardback copy at a local thrift store a few years ago.   O0   One of my most-read books evah.  Prompted me to go pick up the old GDW Harpoon tabletop version back in my youngling days, so it spawned even more awesome.

8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on December 08, 2015, 06:42:53 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on December 07, 2015, 02:27:37 PM
Hunting Hitler: New Scientific Evidence that Hitler Escaped Nazi Germany by Jerome R. Corsi

I didn't read it but did see the documentary.  ;D

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 08, 2015, 01:45:51 PM
Man, it's amazing how much "Mr. Johnson" looks like David Tennant; and how much DT can act like him! I was getting some serious Ten flashbacks there...

Let us know if that book has anything interesting to compile and/or add to such theories, Greybriar!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on December 10, 2015, 09:46:13 PM
Starting 'Germany Ascendant'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 11, 2015, 09:31:45 AM
Post impressions!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 11, 2015, 02:44:08 PM
I went on a bit of a Kindle Book bender yesterday...bought The Victory that Wasn't, Project Return Fire, and Amerikan Eagle. All alternate history stuff.

Now, my "Recommended For You" section is full of books with swastikas on their covers... :(

Speaking of, I did try to read Mein Kampf once in college, for a paper I was writing, but I couldn't get through the first 20 pages. It was some seriously random rambling bullshit.

I finished the Secret Service book, which was pretty good, but depressing (the Secret Service is kind of messed up). I started reading Mustaine, an autobiography by the one and only Dave Mustaine of Metallica and Megadeth fame. It's a very good read so far and I'm only a couple of chapters in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 11, 2015, 06:00:16 PM
I've read that Mustaine is a borderline genius/psychopath.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 11, 2015, 06:57:34 PM
Finally finished Robert K. Massie's "Dreadnought" and enjoyed the book very much. The details behind the naval race and politics/diplomacy in pre-World War One Europe was fascinating.

Now back to his "Castles of Steel" which I let sit after one hundred pages when posters here suggested I read "Dreadnought" first. That advice was good. Thanks for it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 11, 2015, 07:05:02 PM
^Excellent! Castles of Steel is about 880 pages IIRC so...enjoy!

And read Massie's Peter the Great when you get the chance.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on December 11, 2015, 07:36:47 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on December 11, 2015, 02:44:08 PM
I went on a bit of a Kindle Book bender yesterday...bought The Victory that Wasn't, Project Return Fire, and Amerikan Eagle. All alternate history stuff.


Have you tried Festung Europa: The Anglo-American/Nazi War (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015URFGEC?keywords=Festung%20Europa&qid=1449880403&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1)? WWII carries onto 1959. Written as a history, it was actually pretty good. It started out as a thread on an alternate history forum.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 11, 2015, 10:52:03 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on December 11, 2015, 07:36:47 PM
you tried Festung Europa: The Anglo-American/Nazi War (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015URFGEC?keywords=Festung%20Europa&qid=1449880403&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1)? WWII carries onto 1959. Written as a history, it was actually pretty good. It started out as a thread on an alternate history forum.

Yup. I've been reading that, too.  O0

Though I've been going back and forth to it, because it looks like whomever wrote it didn't bother with an editor. There's tons of punctuation, spelling, and other errors that really ruin the story for me, and are quite frankly unforgivable in a published/for sale work, which is otherwise very well done.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 11, 2015, 10:54:45 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 11, 2015, 06:00:16 PM
I've read that Mustaine is a borderline genius/psychopath.

Yeah, he was a 150 MPH kind of guy (might still be, I haven't paid much attention to what he and Megadeth have done in the last decade or so), apparently. And pretty brutally honest about his upbringing. I hope he's the one that actually wrote this, and not a ghostwriter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 12, 2015, 02:28:13 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 11, 2015, 07:05:02 PM
And read Massie's Peter the Great when you get the chance.

Next book I intend to get. Thanks for the tip!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 12, 2015, 03:09:22 PM
I love the pre-WWI era and knew nothing of Peter the Great when I read Massie's book and I loved it, even more than Dreadnought. Peter the Great is one of my favorite books ever, along with The Proud Tower by Barbara Tuchmann. And go figure I couldn't get through The Guns of August.  :idiot2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 12, 2015, 10:03:45 PM
I'm reading The Battle for Hell's Island by Stephen Moore.  It's about a squadron of SBD dive bomber pilots from the Enterprise and their experiences during the Guadalcanal campaign.  I just finished up To Command the Sky last week and it was a rather technical look at how the US achieved air superiority over Germany in the run up to D-Day.  Hell's Island is a much more lurid, personal account of battle and the change in style is a bit jarring. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 13, 2015, 11:14:41 PM
I'm 2/3rds through Sword of Shiva. It's a fairly tense, non-stop military thriller. Recommended. It was also a kindle freebie or dirt cheap a while back, when I got it.

It's winding up to a full on war between China and India. I may finish it tonight.

Just checked, it still about $1 on amazon. 8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 19, 2015, 11:00:28 AM
$1.45 Today on kindle

http://www.amazon.com/French-Foreign-Legion-Complete-Legendary-ebook/dp/B006UKO8XE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1450540707&sr=8-1&keywords=The+French+Foreign+Legion%3A+A+Complete+History+of+the+Legendary+Fighting+Force
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 19, 2015, 11:21:38 AM
Hic

http://www.amazon.ca/Tasting-Whiskey-Insiders-Pleasures-Spirits-ebook/dp/B00KLNAJ4S/ref=pd_sim_351_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=510VjdUTzNL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR121%2C160_&refRID=04VSBJ1FMXGKZ6C87V2W
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 19, 2015, 11:59:59 AM
Thanks Biggs- I snapped up both of those!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on December 19, 2015, 12:04:39 PM
Book review posted to front page on Friday
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 19, 2015, 03:13:01 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 12, 2015, 03:09:22 PM
I love the pre-WWI era and knew nothing of Peter the Great when I read Massie's book and I loved it, even more than Dreadnought. Peter the Great is one of my favorite books ever, along with The Proud Tower by Barbara Tuchmann. And go figure I couldn't get through The Guns of August.  :idiot2:

Guns of August got much better once the fighting starts.  I sort of skimmed all the prequel stuff after the first 20 pages until people start shooting each other.

Right now I'm slowly working my way through Tides of War, which someone suggested a while ago.  I'm enjoying it thus far- about 35% in right now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 19, 2015, 04:53:55 PM
Quote from: Toonces on December 19, 2015, 03:13:01 PM
Right now I'm slowly working my way through Tides of War, which someone suggested a while ago.  I'm enjoying it thus far- about 35% in right now.
O0

So was it the book that inspired you to start playing Rome II: Wrath of Sparta, or vice-versa? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 19, 2015, 05:02:02 PM
The book inspired the game!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 19, 2015, 05:09:07 PM
Same here.  8)  I seem to recall reading one of the developers of WoS is a fan of the book as well. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 19, 2015, 09:36:25 PM
American Ceasar by William Manchester. Very good so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 19, 2015, 09:55:21 PM
Commander did you finish The Guns of August? Should I go back to it, skim the beginning and attempt to re-read the meat of it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 20, 2015, 12:45:52 AM
Chapter 1 of the thriller Boomer just creeps me the F out. A 688 has been talked into taking out 2 of their own boomers. How could a retired navy man write such a thing ? argh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 21, 2015, 05:30:15 PM
@ Gus,
I haven't read enough to tell you if the book holds throughout, but I'm about 30% in and enjoying it well enough.  I think, given your interest in the subject, you should give the skim a try.  Like I said before, once you get to the shooting it's more interesting. 

I got distracted by Tides of War (which is very, very good) so Guns of August is shelved for the time being. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 21, 2015, 05:52:06 PM
My OCD prevents me from behaving in such a manner. I have been interested in Tides of War forever too and have the Wrath of Sparta buried around here somewhere.

For now I am still into Victorian era/Edwardian era/WWI stuff and will be playing Shogun 2 FOTS and attempting again to master Wings Over Flanders Fields - got some great reading to go along with those games.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 21, 2015, 06:00:43 PM
I've just started a re-read of all 20 Patrick O'Brian books. I love 'em.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 21, 2015, 06:25:06 PM
Quote from: Toonces on December 21, 2015, 05:30:15 PM
I got distracted by Tides of War (which is very, very good)
Glad you're enjoying it so much, Commander.  I know I've long championed that book (it's one of those that gets a re-read from me once every/every other year); glad to see it's resonating with you as well.  O0 




Quote from: bob48 on December 21, 2015, 06:00:43 PM
I've just started a re-read of all 20 Patrick O'Brian books. I love 'em.
Now there's a series on my to-do list that I still have to get to. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 21, 2015, 06:43:55 PM
Bawb, if you haven't read it before, Eyes of the Fleet, by Anthony Price is a great look at frigate captains.
And he lives in your neck of the woods.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 21, 2015, 09:56:11 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 21, 2015, 06:00:43 PM
I've just started a re-read of all 20 Patrick O'Brian books. I love 'em.

I'm coming to the end of this series! Reading Wine Dark Sea right now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 21, 2015, 10:52:29 PM
Eden To Armageddon: World War I in the Middle East by Roger Ford for the second time. Great book. Don't know what's up next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 21, 2015, 10:58:01 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 21, 2015, 06:00:43 PM
I've just started a re-read of all 20 Patrick O'Brian books. I love 'em.

Love 'em.  I've read them all twice and listened to the audiobooks on long flights.  Have you read the unfinished 21st novel?  It's decent.  Makes me want to play Sails of Glory or Privateers and Gentlemen every time I read them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 22, 2015, 08:28:53 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 21, 2015, 10:58:01 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 21, 2015, 06:00:43 PM
I've just started a re-read of all 20 Patrick O'Brian books. I love 'em.

Love 'em.  I've read them all twice and listened to the audiobooks on long flights.  Have you read the unfinished 21st novel?  It's decent.  Makes me want to play Sails of Glory or Privateers and Gentlemen every time I read them.

I think this is my 4th reading of the series - it just never grows old - and yes, I have the unfinished 21st book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 22, 2015, 08:58:49 AM
What is the first book in the series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on December 22, 2015, 08:59:42 AM
Just bought I, Jedi. I've always wanted to read it and seeing the new movie motivated me to buy it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 22, 2015, 09:04:25 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 22, 2015, 08:58:49 AM
What is the first book in the series?

Master and Commander.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 22, 2015, 09:18:16 AM
Quote from: bbmike on December 22, 2015, 08:59:42 AM
Just bought I, Jedi. I've always wanted to read it and seeing the new movie motivated me to buy it.
Awesome!  Hope you enjoy it, bbmike

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 22, 2015, 10:33:14 AM
Quote from: bob48 on December 22, 2015, 09:04:25 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 22, 2015, 08:58:49 AM
What is the first book in the series?

Master and Commander.

Isn't that the second book? I only have a 3 book set. M&C was the second book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 22, 2015, 11:10:27 AM
Its definitely the first book. Second is 'Post captain' and third is 'HMS Surprise' :-)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 22, 2015, 11:14:11 AM
Quote from: bob48 on December 22, 2015, 11:10:27 AM
Its definitely the first book. Second is 'Post captain' and third is 'HMS Surprise' :-)

The swines marketed the set in the wrong order.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 22, 2015, 01:32:06 PM
:-((
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 22, 2015, 10:42:50 PM
Did you guys like the M&C movie? Not ever having read it, I love the movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 22, 2015, 11:14:30 PM
The movie was great.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 22, 2015, 11:37:01 PM
The movie is a mashup of several of the books, and it's great. Really catchiest the spirit of the books and the characters.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 23, 2015, 02:33:43 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 22, 2015, 10:42:50 PM
Did you guys like the M&C movie? Not ever having read it, I love the movie.

It's a very good movie but they made a few major changes to the story in order to make it marketable to a wider audience. It combined the stories from Master and Commander and The Far Side of the World and changed the bad guys to the French instead of the Americans.  It also cut out a lot of detail about whaling as the Brits were trying to defend their Pacific whaling fleets from the American raider.  I thought the film's climax was better than the novel's but I won't spoil that ending here.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 23, 2015, 08:11:06 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on December 22, 2015, 11:37:01 PM
The movie is a mashup of several of the books, and it's great. Really catchiest the spirit of the books and the characters.

Absolutely right, AR.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 23, 2015, 04:50:25 PM
Watching the movie (which I own) is what made me want to sit down and read the books in the first place. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 23, 2015, 05:16:17 PM
Honestly, invest the time - you won't regret it I assure you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 23, 2015, 07:22:28 PM
Aubrey and Maturin are both good, but honestly preferred Bolitho or Ramage more.
If you're finished with O'Brian's, do yourself a favor and check out these two other series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 24, 2015, 06:23:27 AM
Quote from: besilarius on December 23, 2015, 07:22:28 PM
Aubrey and Maturin are both good, but honestly preferred Bolitho or Ramage more.
If you're finished with O'Brian's, do yourself a favor and check out these two other series.

Ramage is not bad, and we have all the Bolitho books, as Mrs.B prefers those. I found that the Bolitho character went a bit too 'soft' after author Douglas Reeman remarried (to a younger wife), the later books are definitely not as good as the earlier ones. However, the books he published under his own name, especially those about the Royal Marines, are pretty good.

For period flavour, O'Brian is still top of the bunch.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 24, 2015, 01:17:38 PM
Just about finished with Red Storm Rising.  Up next:  Either Hell's Foundations Quiver (which I got for Christmas) or a re-read of Sanderson's Mistborn trilogy (I finally picked up my own copies a couple months ago).  Decisions, decisions... 




Quote from: bob48 on December 23, 2015, 05:16:17 PM
Honestly, invest the time - you won't regret it I assure you.
I believe you.  Time to move it up to near the top of my list, I think.  I haven't spent any time in the sub-genre since I read Forester's Hornblower series, and I'm definitely feeling something of an itch. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2015, 06:39:40 PM
Just cracked open The Illustrated Guide of Weapons of WWI edited by Chris Bishop.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 28, 2015, 06:45:27 PM
One of my sons gave me 'The Winter war. The Russo-Finnish war of 1939-40' by William R Trotter, so I'll be getting stuck into that. Not read much about the Russo-Finnish war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2015, 06:49:56 PM
Trotter used to hang out with this sundry group online on occasion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 28, 2015, 07:38:51 PM
I didn't know he wrote a book. One or were there more?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 28, 2015, 07:57:17 PM
He wrote novels about the ACW and , IIRC, the Loch Ness Monster. Also a couple of biographies. I'm sure there's more.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 28, 2015, 08:23:29 PM
He pretty much wrote an entire book every time he submitted a game review.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2015, 08:46:02 PM
^Yeah that too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 28, 2015, 09:36:27 PM
He's a member here, too.  Although, not active.  He did post in the Welcome forum when he signed up though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 28, 2015, 11:00:34 PM
I remember squealing with delight. Not me of course. Somebody, squealing with delight I meant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 29, 2015, 05:47:02 AM
I must admit, I had not made the connection - the name meant nothing to me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 29, 2015, 11:04:17 AM
So how's the book Bob?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 29, 2015, 11:47:51 AM
I haven't started it yet; its on the 'to read' pile :-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 29, 2015, 04:03:02 PM
My to-read pile is finally shrinking as I catch up with my ambitious reading schedule.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 30, 2015, 11:16:45 AM
I just got my copy of, "Constantine: Roman Emperor- Christian Victor" by Paul Stephenson. That should put me in a Rome 2 kind of mood.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2015, 11:38:27 AM
^I just added that to my Amazon cart. I'm sending you the receipt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 30, 2015, 02:58:36 PM
OK. I'll look at it and then send it back. How's that?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2015, 05:47:55 PM
Unacceptable. You should know I am attempting to shrink down my existing to-read pile and that my virtual to-buy pile is at 25 items already.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 30, 2015, 09:27:39 PM
Just ordered Robert Massie's "Peter The Great: His Life And World" and Peter Wilson's "Europe's Tragedy: A New History Of The Thirty Years War".

About halfway through Massie's "Castles of Steel" book which I am really enjoying.

For those who recommended Massie's books here, thanks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2015, 09:35:23 PM
The Peter the Great book by Massie is absolutely flawless. If you have not read his Dreadnought then stop whatever you're doing and grab a copy immediately!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 30, 2015, 09:55:34 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 30, 2015, 09:35:23 PM
The Peter the Great book by Massie is absolutely flawless. If you have not read his Dreadnought then stop whatever you're doing and grab a copy immediately!
Actually I did complete "Dreadnought" before returning to "Castles of Steel". Both are very good books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 30, 2015, 10:01:53 PM
Which of the two Massie's covers the naval build up to WWI?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on December 30, 2015, 10:05:59 PM
I just finished The Battle for Hell's Island, an account of SBD dive bomber pilots during the Guadalcanal campaign.  Good read and gave me lots of ideas for Wings of Glory scenarios (and an urge to try to come to grips with WITP again).  I started re-reading Bomber Command by Max Hastings as a form of therapy after the slaughter my RAF bombers suffered in my PBEM game of Wing Leader with Bart.

Just starting This Book is Full of Spiders as I've been hitting the WWII air war history books pretty hard lately so I figured a little light brain candy was in order.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 30, 2015, 11:39:22 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 30, 2015, 10:01:53 PM
Which of the two Massie's covers the naval build up to WWI?
Dreadnought.

Lots of politics in the book with great details of German-Anglo relations from the late 1800's to 1914.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 30, 2015, 11:40:40 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 30, 2015, 09:35:23 PM
The Peter the Great book by Massie is absolutely flawless. If you have not read his Dreadnought then stop whatever you're doing and grab a copy immediately!

+1

Quote from: MetalDog on December 30, 2015, 10:01:53 PM
Which of the two Massie's covers the naval build up to WWI?

Dreadnought
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Mr. Bigglesworth on December 31, 2015, 03:03:39 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 30, 2015, 09:35:23 PM
The Peter the Great book by Massie is absolutely flawless. If you have not read his Dreadnought then stop whatever you're doing and grab a copy immediately!

Rats, ive been circling his books like a shark based on the reviews. Now i might not wait.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 31, 2015, 06:52:31 AM
Quote from: WallysWorld on December 30, 2015, 11:39:22 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 30, 2015, 10:01:53 PM
Which of the two Massie's covers the naval build up to WWI?
Dreadnought.

Lots of politics in the book with great details of German-Anglo relations from the late 1800's to 1914.

Quote from: Airborne Rifles on December 30, 2015, 11:40:40 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 30, 2015, 10:01:53 PM
Which of the two Massie's covers the naval build up to WWI?

Dreadnought

Thank you gentlemen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 31, 2015, 07:17:18 AM
I am currently reading X by Sue Grafton.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 31, 2015, 10:32:23 AM
Kev do not wait on Massie. You'll kick yourself harder once you do start.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 31, 2015, 12:07:59 PM
I actually was able to go into a B&N a few days ago (the wife even went) and I saw several nice things, but the prices were way, way over the top. A five-book collection of the larger Game of Thrones paperbacks was selling for $90, for chrissakes, where individually they were something like $19.95. How is that a deal? Why bother with a box set?

Also saw a really cool GoT book of history, but it was $50. Though it was pretty it wasn't that pretty.

I did buy several books through my Kindle. The one that's held my attention is Rain: Rise of the Living Dead. Yeah yeah, another Zombie book, but it's written well enough that it goes quickly. I'm already halfway done with it.

Also bought Tiger Tracks and The Last Panther, as well as The Grasshopper Lies Heavy, Project: Return Fire, and The Victory That Wasn't.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 31, 2015, 02:06:45 PM
Was this the GoT history you saw?

http://smile.amazon.com/World-Ice-Fire-History-Westeros/dp/0553805444/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1451588778&sr=1-1&keywords=The+World+of+Ice+and+Fire
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 31, 2015, 02:15:46 PM
Re-reading The Silmarillion.  I'll probably move on to LotR after that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 31, 2015, 03:55:52 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on December 31, 2015, 12:07:59 PM
I The Grasshopper Lies Heavy,

If you purchased it thinking it was about the 'book within a book' that anchors Phillip K. Dick's 'The Man in the High Castle' be forewarned that the former has nothing to do with the latter.  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 31, 2015, 04:30:54 PM
I ended up going with Hell's Foundation's Quiver.  A very good read so far, but I now wish I'd re-read Like a Might Army first to refresh my memory of certain things.  Oh well. 




Quote from: MetalDog on December 31, 2015, 02:15:46 PM
Re-reading The Silmarillion.  I'll probably move on to LotR after that.
I need to do this in the fairly near future as well.  Sigh; too many books and not enough time... 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on December 31, 2015, 08:25:32 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on December 30, 2015, 09:27:39 PM
Just ordered Robert Massie's "Peter The Great: His Life And World: His Life And World"

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hofstadter on January 03, 2016, 06:44:50 AM
D day, the battle for normandy by anthony beevor
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on January 03, 2016, 08:09:11 AM
^That's on my 'to buy' list. I did get his 'Ardennes' book last year, and that was a damn good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2016, 01:21:38 PM
I'll read anything by Beevor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 03, 2016, 03:36:59 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 30, 2015, 05:47:55 PM
Unacceptable. You should know I am attempting to shrink down my existing to-read pile and that my virtual to-buy pile is at 25 items already.

Just a reminder, you have a free pdf of Cry of Justice somewhere already. ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2016, 03:42:18 PM
Alright 26 items :/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 03, 2016, 06:56:26 PM
Those Clancy books are fun as long as you skim them for the action parts. There's lots of unnecessary filler in his later books. It kinda reminds me of Stephen King, the more popular and well known he became the less anyone dared to edit him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 03, 2016, 07:00:17 PM
And apparently I just replied to a very old post. So much for reading the forums on my phone :p
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on January 03, 2016, 07:23:59 PM
The Great Northern War is on my reading list.
For all those who have read Massie's Peter the Great, this may be of great interest.  A military history of the war that Peter fought to bring Russia into Europe, and Sweden's attempt to keep it's Great Power status.

http://www.military-history.us/2015/11/book-review-the-great-northern-war-compendium-edited-by-steve-kling/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on January 03, 2016, 08:06:35 PM
I whipped through This Book is Full of Spiders pretty quickly.  It was OK but nothing great.

I ordered a couple of Osprey books from Amazon and just cracked open Ki-61 and Ki-100 Aces.  Haven't started reading yet.  I'm just looking at the pretty pictures at this point.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2016, 08:53:00 PM
Bes have you read this?

http://smile.amazon.com/Northern-Wars-Society-Northeastern-Europe/dp/0582064295/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1451872313&sr=1-2&keywords=The+Great+Northern+War

I read it probably 10 years ago before the price got ludicrous.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 04, 2016, 08:02:10 AM
Quote from: Hofstadter on January 03, 2016, 06:44:50 AM
D day, the battle for normandy by anthony beevor

I just finished reading this book a couple of months ago...it's an outstanding read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on January 04, 2016, 09:13:35 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on January 04, 2016, 08:02:10 AM
Quote from: Hofstadter on January 03, 2016, 06:44:50 AM
D day, the battle for normandy by anthony beevor

I just finished reading this book a couple of months ago...it's an outstanding read.

Know any good games about the subject?   ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on January 04, 2016, 06:31:05 PM
Thanks, Gus, had never seen this before.
Think I will see if can arrange a library loan though.  That is quite a lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hofstadter on January 04, 2016, 06:45:38 PM
Quote from: Barthheart on January 04, 2016, 09:13:35 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on January 04, 2016, 08:02:10 AM
Quote from: Hofstadter on January 03, 2016, 06:44:50 AM
D day, the battle for normandy by anthony beevor

I just finished reading this book a couple of months ago...it's an outstanding read.

Know any good games about the subject?   ;)

Depends on what type youre after. Hex and counter, tactical, fps.

Also got a couple of other books by him as well. Stalingrad, ww2 and ardennes 1944
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 04, 2016, 07:04:07 PM
Bes if you want I can check my Library of Gus and forward to you, no charge.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 05, 2016, 06:30:34 AM
Quote from: mirth on January 03, 2016, 06:56:26 PM
Those Clancy books are fun as long as you skim them for the action parts. There's lots of unnecessary filler in his later books. It kinda reminds me of Stephen King, the more popular and well known he became the less anyone dared to edit him.
David Weber suffers from the same problem (which I've been forcibly reminded of while currently reading Hell's Foundations Quiver).  I love his work, but his tendency to interrupt conversations and/or action scenes with 5-10 pages of exposition regarding some new/secret weapon/plan/whatever drives me absolutely insane sometimes.  :tickedoff:  I really wish they'd rein him in a bit, if only for that reason. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on January 05, 2016, 08:09:00 AM
Gus, thank you.  Let me hold on that for a bit, though.  May be some traveling coming up, and I'd hate to just hold your book without the chance of getting into it.
That's a very generous offer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2016, 10:59:47 AM
Sure thing...I would hate to see someone try to find it at a library or fork over that kind of money when they don't have to.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2016, 04:55:21 PM
About to start Japan's Imperial Army - Its Rise and Fall, 1853-1945, by Edward J. Drea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 08, 2016, 09:21:30 AM
 Currently reading: In Mortal Combat: Korea, 1950-1953 by John Toland
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 08, 2016, 02:21:57 PM
Currently reading the four books of The Wingfeather Chronicles or something like that, lent by my brother who received them several months ago on his birthday and has just now gotten around to reading and finishing them himself.

They have ALL THE WHIMSY ALL OF IT. Moreso than I usually care to stomach. But the whimsy is icing (lots of icing) on an occasionally dark story, and the author is a fellow Tennessean (or anyway he and his family live near Nashville now) who has succeeded a lot better than I in writing a popular fantasy series so... ;)

I'm enjoying it well enough. Bro and I both think it'd be a little too dark (ironically enough, considering Narnia is less than a 100th as whimsical) for the nieces yet. Actually made me want to go back and read the first part of The Eye of the World while hanging out at the hospital with Dad for a few days, which I did.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on January 12, 2016, 05:53:39 PM
Trench: A History of Trench Warfare on the Western Front by Stephen Bull awaits my hot, little hands.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2016, 07:34:13 PM
Is that a new title?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: TacticalWargames on January 13, 2016, 10:48:35 AM
Bloody Stalingrad Trilogy Mr Andrew McGregor

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1516927230?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1516927230?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on January 13, 2016, 10:51:51 AM
I honestly don't know and don't have the book handy at the moment.  But it's from Osprey Publishing is wonderfully illustrated and feels sturdy for a paperback type.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2016, 01:56:18 PM
Dammit Carl!

Ha
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 18, 2016, 06:27:10 AM
Have just begun re-reading Brandon Sanderson's fantastic Mistborn trilogy.  Am curious to see what clues I pick up on now that I know how it goes (although it's been a few years, so my memory's a bit foggy at this point). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 18, 2016, 08:44:08 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 18, 2016, 06:27:10 AM
Have just begun re-reading Brandon Sanderson's fantastic Mistborn trilogy.  Am curious to see what clues I pick up on now that I know how it goes (although it's been a few years, so my memory's a bit foggy at this point).

I've never heard of that series. Now I'll have to add it to the crushing weight already on my virtual nightstand. Thanks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 19, 2016, 03:36:29 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on January 18, 2016, 08:44:08 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 18, 2016, 06:27:10 AM
Have just begun re-reading Brandon Sanderson's fantastic Mistborn trilogy.  Am curious to see what clues I pick up on now that I know how it goes (although it's been a few years, so my memory's a bit foggy at this point).

I've never heard of that series. Now I'll have to add it to the crushing weight already on my virtual nightstand. Thanks.
You're welcome.  :D 

Fair warning, though:  Sanderson likes to play around with tropes (especially fantasy tropes) a good deal, including having characters lampshade them in-story.  He writes some great stories, but the trope-fiddling can be a bit off-putting unless/until you get used to it. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 21, 2016, 09:52:08 AM
Just started: Shinsengumi - The Shogun's Last Samurai Corps by Romulus Hillsborough.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 21, 2016, 01:49:11 PM
I should change my first name to Romulus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 21, 2016, 02:06:22 PM
Star should change his first name to Remus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 21, 2016, 02:31:40 PM
Who's the wolf?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on January 21, 2016, 05:14:31 PM
Terms of Enlistment by Marko Kloos.

I picked this up last weekend after my son recommended it. Four days later and I'm on the third book. It's solid, solid sci/fi and one of the best military sci/fi series I've ever read. Seriously, I can compare it to Starship Troopers or The Forever War with a straight face.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 21, 2016, 06:08:41 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 21, 2016, 02:31:40 PM
Who's the wolf?

Duh. You.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 21, 2016, 06:44:40 PM
I lack suckleable tits.

Steelie I read Terms of Enlistment last year, really liked it. I have Angles of Attack (book 2) ready to go while I play some Homeward Remastered. I've read that the third book is kind of weak...you disagree?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 21, 2016, 06:51:54 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 21, 2016, 06:44:40 PM
I lack suckleable tits.

Nobody's perfect.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 21, 2016, 10:33:20 PM
How ironic. I suck lackable tits.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on January 21, 2016, 10:40:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 21, 2016, 06:44:40 PM
I lack suckleable tits.

Steelie I read Terms of Enlistment last year, really liked it. I have Angles of Attack (book 2) ready to go while I play some Homeward Remastered. I've read that the third book is kind of weak...you disagree?

I'm only about fifty pages into the third book so I don't have a real opinion yet, but so far so good. Angles of Attack is a must read if you enjoyed Terms.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 22, 2016, 08:30:40 AM
Slash I just spit my corn flakes all over the place, thanks.

Steelie some reviews said the third book is kinda dull and can be totally skipped over...4th book to be released in April IIRC.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 22, 2016, 09:10:10 AM
Just looked up Terms of Enlistment. It looks like a good read.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 22, 2016, 11:48:37 AM
Sorry about your corn flakes Gus. Tell your wife I did it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 22, 2016, 02:31:36 PM
Can Terms of Enlistment be read as a standalone piece?  I enjoy my military sci-fi, but have no desire to get caught up in a series that isn't finished yet. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 22, 2016, 03:26:06 PM
Quote from: Martok on January 22, 2016, 02:31:36 PM
Can Terms of Enlistment be read as a standalone piece?  I enjoy my military sci-fi, but have no desire to get caught up in a series that isn't finished yet.

I really enjoyed the Odyssey One series, which wraps up the story in 4 books but sets the stage for the next set of books.

http://www.amazon.com/Into-Black-Remastered-Edition-Odyssey-ebook/dp/B005ML0EZS (http://www.amazon.com/Into-Black-Remastered-Edition-Odyssey-ebook/dp/B005ML0EZS)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 22, 2016, 03:49:56 PM
I've only read the first Terms of Enlistment but I immediately wanted another when I was done. Book 4 comes out in the spring.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 22, 2016, 03:56:31 PM
Hmm.  Sounds like I need to wait til sometime after this spring then.  Thanks fellas.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 22, 2016, 06:33:35 PM
^As far as I know there is no set available. But there never really is when you want one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on January 22, 2016, 08:36:09 PM
There's a Kindle set available for the first 3 books.  I think it's called the Frontlines series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 22, 2016, 09:07:09 PM
Nice. Don't think there's one in print though...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on January 23, 2016, 08:04:35 AM
I just finished reading the Warstrider series by Ian Douglas (aka William H Keith Jr). Good military scifi with interesting characters, a strong Japanese cultural flavor, and a mix of mech-type ground combat and space combat. There are 7 books in the series and the final book wraps up all plotlines. Recommended.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LLHOTFS/ref=series_rw_dp_sw (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LLHOTFS/ref=series_rw_dp_sw)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 23, 2016, 09:41:32 AM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on January 22, 2016, 08:36:09 PM
There's a Kindle set available for the first 3 books.  I think it's called the Frontlines series.

Yup. (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WT8XT86/ref=series_rw_dp_sw/191-0766093-6644663)

I don't like buying book series in general, though. I might just pick up the first one and see how it goes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on January 23, 2016, 06:47:01 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 22, 2016, 08:30:40 AM
Slash I just spit my corn flakes all over the place, thanks.

Steelie some reviews said the third book is kinda dull and can be totally skipped over...4th book to be released in April IIRC.

Gus, I just finished the third book and all I can say is any negative reviews are horse manure. The book was excellent. Hell, all three were excellent and this is hands down my new favorite military sci/fi series. The third novel brings the series to a reasonable finish if the author had so chosen, no cliffhangers, but there is plenty of room to explore future possibilities and I'm glad he's decided to write more. And in the "put my money where my mouth is", I pre-ordered the fourth book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 23, 2016, 07:32:42 PM
That's all I need to hear!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on January 23, 2016, 09:04:46 PM
I've been going a bit nuts with reading since around Thanksgiving:

The End of All Things, and Lock In by John Scalzi
The Gods of Risk, The Churn, The Vital Abyss, Abaddon's Gate, and Cibola Burn by James S.A. Corey
Merlin's Gun, Troika, and House of Suns by Alastair Reynolds
Rendezvous with Rama by Arthur C. Clarke
Coders at Work: Reflections on the Craft of Programming by Peter Seibel
Dealers of Lightning: Xerox Parc and the Dawn of the Computer Age by Michael Hiltzik
Seveneves by Neal Stephenson
The Supermen: The Story of Seymour Cray and the Technical Wizards behind the Supercomputer by Charles Murray
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 24, 2016, 03:20:20 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 22, 2016, 06:33:35 PM
^As far as I know there is no set available. But there never really is when you want one.
Eh.  A set would be nice, sure, but it's certainly not necessary.  I'll probably end up copying Banzai_Cat and get just the first book to start with anyway. 



Quote from: vyshka on January 23, 2016, 09:04:46 PM
I've been going a bit nuts with reading since around Thanksgiving:

The End of All Things, and Lock In by John Scalzi
The Gods of Risk, The Churn, The Vital Abyss, Abaddon's Gate, and Cibola Burn by James S.A. Corey
Merlin's Gun, Troika, and House of Suns by Alastair Reynolds
Rendezvous with Rama by Arthur C. Clarke
Coders at Work: Reflections on the Craft of Programming by Peter Seibel
Dealers of Lightning: Xerox Parc and the Dawn of the Computer Age by Michael Hiltzik
Seveneves by Neal Stephenson
The Supermen: The Story of Seymour Cray and the Technical Wizards behind the Supercomputer by Charles Murray

Damn, vyshka, you must be a beast when it comes to reading!  :o  In that same amount of time, I would probably only just now be finishing up Seveneves.  Stephenson's works make for some...dense reading. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 24, 2016, 08:04:54 PM
Martin do you have an e-reader? I was wrong and there is a digital Terms of Enlistment set available as posted above.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 01, 2016, 03:26:06 PM
Just started The Tomorrow War by J.L. Bourne.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 01, 2016, 03:29:36 PM
Just starting:


The Conquering Tide by Ian Toll

&

John Paul Jones: Sailor, Hero, Father of the American Navy by Evan Thomas

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 02, 2016, 07:00:19 AM
I just finished reading Alan Glenn's Amerikan Eagle (http://www.amazon.com/Amerikan-Eagle-Novel-Alan-Glenn/dp/0553593579) late last night. It was surprisingly engrossing and kept me hooked the entire time, which is not easy when it comes to alternate history novels.

The book's divergence from the timeline comes in 1933 when Giuseppe Zangara actually manages to assassinate FDR. FDR's vice president is highly ineffectual, which paves the way for Huey Long to become President. (Might sound like a stretch, but consider that in our timeline, FDR thought Long was one of the most dangerous men in America.) The story revolves around a police inspector in the town of Portsmouth, NH, and a murder investigation that ends up being much more than what it seems at face value.

There's plenty of disturbing things in this novel...disturbing insofar as thinking, "how can this happen in America?" The more I thought about it, the more it seemed plausible. By the end of the novel, I was wishing it was longer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 02, 2016, 07:15:26 AM
^I've heard of that one. I held of on getting it because a lot of contemporary nazi-related alt history is pretty awful. Good to know that one isn't.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on February 02, 2016, 05:56:54 PM
Finally finished Massie's "Castles of Steel" the other night after first reading through his "Dreadnought". Both books were excellent and many thanks to those who recommended them on this forum.  :)

Started reading  Otto Carius' "Tigers in the Mud". About 20 pages into the book and it's a very good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 02, 2016, 06:13:32 PM
Massie will soon be one of your favorite writers too...prepare to be assimilated!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 10, 2016, 04:02:14 PM
Just finished, "Constantine Roman Emperor, Christian Victor" last pm. Good book, not great. Lots of things I never knew about the Big C. but mostly deals with his conversion to Christianity and the realities of his faith vs political needs of ruling an increasingly Christian people. Not a lot of history, more philosophy and VERY deep. But a good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on February 12, 2016, 03:08:33 PM
Just finished Nemesis Games so now I'm caught up on the Expanse series and just waiting for next book to come out this year.

Currently reading The Innovators by Walter Isaacson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 14, 2016, 09:45:21 AM
Just started One Second After by William Forschten.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 14, 2016, 12:51:20 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 14, 2016, 09:45:21 AM
Just started One Second After by William Forschten.

I got the audio book of that some time ago but never listened to it. Forschten is a good author though, so it should be a good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 14, 2016, 01:00:09 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 14, 2016, 09:45:21 AM
Just started One Second After by William Forschten.

Haven't read that one. Would love to hear what you think once you get into it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 14, 2016, 01:08:49 PM
^Seconded

Thomas Cahill, 'Heretics And Heroes: How Renaissance Artists And Reformation Priests Created Our World.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 14, 2016, 01:35:03 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 14, 2016, 01:08:49 PM
^Seconded

Thomas Cahill, 'Heretics And Heroes: How Renaissance Artists And Reformation Priests Created Our World.'


How is it so far? I read Cahill's How The Irish Saved Civilization about about 15-20 years ago and liked it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 14, 2016, 01:44:37 PM
I am 70 pages in so far and it is better than The Tomorrow War, which I just finished. Not as jingoistic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 14, 2016, 02:17:59 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 14, 2016, 01:35:03 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 14, 2016, 01:08:49 PM
^Seconded

Thomas Cahill, 'Heretics And Heroes: How Renaissance Artists And Reformation Priests Created Our World.'


How is it so far? I read Cahill's How The Irish Saved Civilization about about 15-20 years ago and liked it.

I like it.  It seems to be written for an audience that is taking the step from being interested in history and knowing a few things after poking around a bit and is now getting deeper into the 'why' of things.  Not anything a well read student of history wouldn't already know or have bumped into.  At least, that's how it seems half way through.  And his writing style is definitely readable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 15, 2016, 08:55:23 AM
Right now I'm going between Mustaine (http://www.amazon.com/Mustaine-Heavy-Metal-Memoir-Dave-ebook/dp/B003VIWO8Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1455544436&sr=1-1&keywords=mustaine), Snow Crash (http://www.amazon.com/Snow-Crash-Neal-Stephenson-ebook/dp/B000FBJCJE/ref=sr_1_1_ha?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1455544407&sr=1-1&keywords=snow+crash), and Red Phoenix (http://www.amazon.com/Red-Phoenix-Larry-Bond-ebook/dp/B008LYZQ74/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1455544379&sr=1-1&keywords=red+phoenix). Snow Crash is weird and Red Phoenix isn't doing it for me, really, though I'll stick with it a bit longer. And I just got a few freebies off of Amazon, plus a 0.99 special for Spitfire!: The Experiences of a Battle of Britain Fighter Pilot (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019S32ESK?redirect=true&ref_=pe_851910_167972200_em_1p_0_ti).

The Mustaine bio is only $1.99 for the Kindle edition (here in the U.S., anyway).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 15, 2016, 08:57:17 AM
Red Phoenix isn't very good. I've tried it a couple times and mostly just skimmed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on February 15, 2016, 09:11:02 AM
Dies Irae: Day of Wrath by Forstchen is a quick and enjoyable, although disturbing, read.

http://www.dayofwrathbook.com/ (http://www.dayofwrathbook.com/)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 15, 2016, 12:54:27 PM
Finally finished The Wingfeather Saga lent to me by the Bro. It gets significantly less whimsical and far more dark as the story goes on; which is good because man I don't think I could have taken four books of the goofiness early in Book 1. Normally I would say I don't know who the audience is supposed to be, but on consideration I suppose the audience is whoever-likes-the-style-of-Harry-Potter and how that series developed.

The last book (#4), which is about the size of two previous books, is about as much of a Last Battle book as RJ's A Memory of the Light concluding The Wheel of Time (by proportion anyway, considering how vastly large RJ's book is). That surprised me, but in a good way -- not that there are a lot of tactics and strategies going on (even compared to AMotL), but there's no shortage of action.

Note that it's a Christian fantasy; though not quite as blatantly so as Narnia, and sceptics may appreciate what looks like some generally unanswered complaints about how messed up and evil the world is. (Or not, since after all no one ends up non-theistic.) There's a strong theme of the importance of self-sacrifice, and of saving one's enemies, and even a mixture of the two ideas.


To show my gratitude, and because the author seems to nod directly at the series a few times himself, I lent Bro The Eye of the World. We'll see how long he hangs in with that before bailing; but if he looks like he may make it into Book 2, I'll start working harder on prepping my abridged versions of Books 6-11!  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on February 15, 2016, 01:34:33 PM
Just finished Morning Star third novel in the red rising trilogy. Not sure how I feel about the series overall. They try to market it in the same vein of hunger games or divergent but the subject matter was much darker and mature.
I like some of the aspects / moral questions brought forth but the end was just too near and clean.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on February 15, 2016, 01:35:43 PM
And I have Calamity coming tomorrow to finish up Sanderson's Reckoner's trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 15, 2016, 01:54:18 PM
Is that Red Phoenix by Larry Bond? I read that long, long ago...barely remember it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 15, 2016, 01:57:05 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 15, 2016, 01:54:18 PM
Is that Red Phoenix by Larry Bond? I read that long, long ago...barely remember it.

Tis. And tis not very memorable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 15, 2016, 02:17:40 PM
Quote from: mirth on February 15, 2016, 01:57:05 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 15, 2016, 01:54:18 PM
Is that Red Phoenix by Larry Bond? I read that long, long ago...barely remember it.

Tis. And tis not very memorable.

Yes...on both counts. The beginning was interesting, but how the discovery of North Korean tunnels under South Korea, loaded with armored regiments, isn't an immediate act of war is beyond me. Now he's into the Washington twerps and they're not very interesting characters at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 15, 2016, 02:22:59 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 15, 2016, 02:17:40 PM
Quote from: mirth on February 15, 2016, 01:57:05 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 15, 2016, 01:54:18 PM
Is that Red Phoenix by Larry Bond? I read that long, long ago...barely remember it.

Tis. And tis not very memorable.

Yes...on both counts. The beginning was interesting, but how the discovery of North Korean tunnels under South Korea, loaded with armored regiments, isn't an immediate act of war is beyond me. Now he's into the Washington twerps and they're not very interesting characters at all.

It has a few interesting moments, but Larry Bond is no Tom Clancy. And take that for what it's worth because Clancy isn't exactly Shakespeare.

The romantic subplot in Red Phoenix is absolutely dreadful.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 15, 2016, 05:47:55 PM
I remember the tunnels! I think that was my favorite part!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 15, 2016, 06:35:22 PM
I liked Red Phoenix. Certainly not as good as RSR, but it had more of an infanty ground component to the story that was actually pretty well done.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 15, 2016, 06:40:33 PM
I love your AARs, but we're gonna have to disagree on this thing ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 15, 2016, 08:23:50 PM
For those interested One Second After is very good and I am enjoying it more than The Tomorrow War. Will pick up the second in the series at some point, IIRC it is One Year After and came out not too long ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 16, 2016, 07:33:17 AM
Quote from: mirth on February 15, 2016, 06:40:33 PM
I love your AARs, but we're gonna have to disagree on this thing ;)

Heresy! You must agree with my opinions on 2nd- (or possibly 3rd-) rate technothrillers!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 16, 2016, 08:47:16 AM
Granted, there's some real crap out there that makes Larry Bond and Harry Turtledove look like first-rate writers. Makes me wonder why the hell the publishers sign whom they sign. Makes me even more afraid to finish my own novel...though I'm about 95% certain I'd have to take the self-pub route through Amazon or some other party. Which means relative obscurity, a needle in a haystack so to speak, and a lot of praying to get noticed.

BTW, the Spitfire book I mentioned above is a pretty good read. It was penned by an RAF pilot (so the description says, anyway) that wrote it sometime after the Battle of Britain to help explain what it's like to fly during wartime to the public. He ended up going off over the North Sea on a mission in 1942 and never returned, so he was presumed killed. Kind of sucks, especially since he begins the book talking about how he's led a charmed life.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 16, 2016, 08:51:16 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 16, 2016, 08:47:16 AM
Granted, there's some real crap out there that makes Larry Bond and Harry Turtledove look like first-rate writers.

This is the truth. I may not be a fan of Larry Bond, but he's well above average for the genre.  If find most stuff in the techno-thriller genre completely unreadable. Bond is somewhat readable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 17, 2016, 11:14:20 PM
Just started, " The Most Dangerous Moment of the War-- Japan's Attack on the Indian Ocean in 1942". By John Clancy-- no kin to Tom. I must be getting old but I swear when I ordered this book I thought it had more than 186 pages. So I'll be finished about this time tomorrow.  :'(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 18, 2016, 06:31:51 AM
Quote from: mirth on February 16, 2016, 08:51:16 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 16, 2016, 08:47:16 AM
Granted, there's some real crap out there that makes Larry Bond and Harry Turtledove look like first-rate writers.

This is the truth. I may not be a fan of Larry Bond, but he's well above average for the genre.  If find most stuff in the techno-thriller genre completely unreadable. Bond is somewhat readable.

Yeah, he's really not all that bad, though I read more of Coyle's books (The Ten Thousand, Bright Star, Sword Point, and Trial by Fire come immediately to mind). Coyle wasn't bad at all.

Goodness knows that Clancy could be downright dull at times, too. Several of his books I just couldn't get into, the most egregious of which was The Hunt for Red October. I know, I know...thing is, the first of his books I read was Red Storm Rising, so Hunt was something of a downer after reading the constant action in RSR. Hunt actually bored the hell out of me. Might be a different story today if I try it, who knows.

And Harry Turtledove can suck it. How a guy can be so prolific and have decent ideas just write some of the most boring characters and worlds imaginable mystifies me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 18, 2016, 09:21:26 AM
I read Hunt for Red October when I was in high school and absolutely loved it. I'm kind of a sucker for the technical stuff and Clancy did it as well as anyone. He definitely wasn't perfect as an author and some of his later books are a real slog. However, nothing in the genre can compete with RSR. I've probably read that book 20-plus times. I can recall entire passages word-for-word.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 18, 2016, 02:28:33 PM
Quote from: mirth on February 18, 2016, 09:21:26 AM
I read Hunt for Red October when I was in high school and absolutely loved it. I'm kind of a sucker for the technical stuff and Clancy did it as well as anyone. He definitely wasn't perfect as an author and some of his later books are a real slog. However, nothing in the genre can compete with RSR. I've probably read that book 20-plus times. I can recall entire passages word-for-word.

Yep.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: vyshka on February 19, 2016, 02:32:23 AM
Finished up The Innovators and quickly read Jim Butcher's first Dresden Files book Storm Front. Currently reading his 2nd book Fool Moon, and Ann Leckie's Ancillary Justice. Waiting to be read is The 3-Body Problem by Cixin Liu.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JudgeDredd on February 19, 2016, 03:33:44 AM
I'm currently reading Red Storm Rising for the second time
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 19, 2016, 04:22:55 AM
Quote from: JudgeDredd on February 19, 2016, 03:33:44 AM
I'm currently reading Red Storm Rising for the second time

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 21, 2016, 06:22:50 AM
The Whiskey Rebellion: George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and the Frontier Rebels Who Challenged America's Newfound Sovereignty by William Hogeland
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2016, 11:33:54 AM
^Ooh is that new?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2016, 05:12:38 PM
About to start Lines of Departure by Marko Kloos.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 21, 2016, 05:24:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 21, 2016, 11:33:54 AM
^Ooh is that new?

2005 I think. I found it at the library. I've never really read much about the Whiskey Rebellion even though I find it fascinating. Such a use of Federal force coming right on the heels of the Revolution. Very curious and interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2016, 05:56:56 PM
And George Washington putting the Presidency aside to deploy himself!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 21, 2016, 06:10:11 PM
He wasn't exactly thrilled about that.

Did you know that 'Light Horse' Lee was there too? Virginians invading Pennsylvania, who'd thunk it?!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 21, 2016, 07:56:37 PM
Reading Command and Control: Nuclear weapons, the Damascus accident, and the illusion of safety by Eric Schlosser. All about the close calls, mismanagement, and disasters that have occurred in the US nuclear weapons program. Scary stuff!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2016, 09:25:01 AM
Anything on EMPs in there? I'm going to read Ted Koeppel's book on the subject soon...it's all the rage here at work.

So mirth - Washington was all pissed that he had to go out into the saddle again and kick ass?

Or was it more of a moral dilemma...putting down a rebellion of fellow 'Muricans?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 22, 2016, 09:40:30 AM
Quote from: Gusington on February 22, 2016, 09:25:01 AM
So mirth - Washington was all pissed that he had to go out into the saddle again and kick ass?

Or was it more of a moral dilemma...putting down a rebellion of fellow 'Muricans?

Not a moral dilemma. He wasn't in the best of health (he had suffered a serious back injury that he never really recovered from) and I don't think he was too keen on having to go back into the field.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 22, 2016, 12:06:53 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 22, 2016, 09:25:01 AM
Anything on EMPs in there? I'm going to read Ted Koeppel's book on the subject soon...it's all the rage here at work.

Not so far. Just multi-megaton hydrogen bombs being dropped over rural North Carolina (as the scariest example so far) and Jupiter ballistic missiles in Europe (Turkey and Italy) being guarded by a single American officer with the launch key around his neck.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2016, 05:38:14 PM
The whole "illusion of safety" disturbs me a little...maybe a lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 23, 2016, 08:32:13 AM
I had a rough weekend with a perfect storm of afflictions hitting me all at once...which was made worse by the fact that past weekend was the second of three weekends of our melodrama show. I still feel like crap but at least I'm not as exhausted as I was 24 hours ago.

Anyway, most of my weekend was spent trying to rest and recuperate from this nuclear assault on my body, so I did some reading. A LOT of buying and reading of Kindle books, in fact.

Bought The Miraculous Torpedo Squadron (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00THSCSS8/ref=pe_385040_118058080_TE_M1T1DP) by Jūzõ Mori. It has high reviews (four stars), was only $2.99, and looked interesting: The author was a pilot for the IJN and was involved in many of its campaigns. I haven't had a chance to read it yet.

Also bought Red Hammer 1994 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AUZ8HPK/ref=pe_385040_118058080_TE_M1T1DP) by Robert Ratcliffe. Another four-star book for $3.99. This one details a nuclear war between Russia and the United States. I haven't had a chance to start this one yet, either.

I hadn't started either of the above because I HAVE been reading these two, which I just bought and am reading now, too:

Invasion Alaska (http://www.amazon.com/Invasion-Alaska-America-Book-ebook/dp/B006KHGWAO/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1456234178&sr=1-1&keywords=invasion+alaska) by Vaughn Heppner. The reviews equal four stars and it's only $3.99 also. This is the first book of a lot of books in the series (five, perhaps more by now, I don't know). I wasn't expecting a lot from this, to be honest, but it's rather well written and the characters are believable and engaging. It takes place a bit in the future and of course makes some leaps to connect the dots as to why the world is where it is when the book starts, but it's not totally a stretch. I'm liking it.

Also have one called Invasion (http://www.amazon.com/Invasion-Alien-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00TADUV1Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1456233702&sr=1-1&keywords=invasion) by several authors. It's free for Kindle devices right now and I'd recommend getting it if you're into alien contact kind of books. This one takes place a bit in the future too and centers on an upscale family and their plight while the world suddenly discovers that lots of alien ships are headed to Earth, with no idea as to their intention. I'm more than halfway through it and it's held my attention in my conscious hours this past weekend. It's pretty cool that they're giving it away for free; there's two other books in the series and this first one really builds up the tension as the alien ships get closer and this family struggles to do what they need to do.

A week ago, I also found this little gem: Sniper on the Eastern Front: The Memoirs of Sepp Allerberger, Knight's Cross (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005586WRW/ref=pe_385040_118058080_TE_M1T1DP). It's a pretty good read about an Austrian drafted into a Mountain Division and experiencing combat on the Eastern Front. It's also only $1.99 and has 4.5 stars as its average review.

My reading is going to diminish as I get better but damn I've found some decent books! Hope you guys try some of these out that I'm recommending.

One other thing - I finally finished Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir (http://www.amazon.com/Mustaine-Heavy-Metal-Memoir-Dave-ebook/dp/B003VIWO8Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1456234054&sr=1-1&keywords=mustaine). VERY highly recommended if you have any interest in Dave Mustaine/Megadeth/metal in general. Especially recommended as it is currently $1.99.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 23, 2016, 08:49:18 AM
You catch the flu or something?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 23, 2016, 09:44:45 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 23, 2016, 08:32:13 AM

Invasion Alaska (http://www.amazon.com/Invasion-Alaska-America-Book-ebook/dp/B006KHGWAO/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1456234178&sr=1-1&keywords=invasion+alaska) by Vaughn Heppner. The reviews equal four stars and it's only $3.99 also. This is the first book of a lot of books in the series (five, perhaps more by now, I don't know). I wasn't expecting a lot from this, to be honest, but it's rather well written and the characters are believable and engaging. It takes place a bit in the future and of course makes some leaps to connect the dots as to why the world is where it is when the book starts, but it's not totally a stretch. I'm liking it.


I read this whole series last year. Much of the military stuff is cringe-worthy, but it is well-written, doesn't unfold as you expect, and the tension stays high until the end. The climax in the last book, even though completely unbelievable, was a lot of fun to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on February 23, 2016, 11:20:37 AM
I am currently reading Doom of the Dragon by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. It is the fourth book in their Dragonships of Vindras series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 23, 2016, 11:54:01 AM
Quote from: Gusington on February 23, 2016, 08:49:18 AM
You catch the flu or something?

Too many things to count, and all at once.  :buck2:

Quote from: Airborne Rifles
I read this whole series last year. Much of the military stuff is cringe-worthy, but it is well-written, doesn't unfold as you expect, and the tension stays high until the end. The climax in the last book, even though completely unbelievable, was a lot of fun to read.

That's the feeling I'm getting, that there's going to be some potholes in the book's logic but overall it's a good enough read to make me want to keep going and find out what's going to happen next. I'm not near any conflict yet - it's about to happen but has not yet. I just finished reading a part yesterday about one of the characters getting his drunk dad away from the cops.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on February 23, 2016, 12:08:54 PM
I thought the first book was the weakest of the series. If you can get through that one the stakes get raised significantly in the follow-on books, and the author does have some interesting thoughts about near-future technologies like lasers, railguns, etc.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 23, 2016, 01:04:15 PM
Aeronaut's Windless (see front page for a review) by Jim Butcher is excellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 23, 2016, 01:12:36 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on February 23, 2016, 12:08:54 PM
I thought the first book was the weakest of the series. If you can get through that one the stakes get raised significantly in the follow-on books, and the author does have some interesting thoughts about near-future technologies like lasers, railguns, etc.

If I can get all the way through The Texas-Israeli War (http://www.amazon.com/Texas-Israeli-War-1999-Howard-Waldrop/dp/0345277368), I can get through anything.  O0

Almost.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 23, 2016, 07:02:36 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on February 23, 2016, 11:20:37 AM
I am currently reading Doom of the Dragon by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. It is the fourth book in their Dragonships of Vindras series.

My daughter is a Weis and Hickman nut.  How is that series?  I don't think she's read it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 23, 2016, 08:12:23 PM
Huh. I don't remember buying this, but apparently I did during one of my OTC-drug hazes this past weekend.

Battlecruiser Alamo: The Price of Admiralty (http://www.amazon.com/Battlecruiser-Alamo-Price-Admiralty-Series-ebook/dp/B00DN8XKIK)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 23, 2016, 08:20:31 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 23, 2016, 08:12:23 PM
Huh. I don't remember buying this, but apparently I did during one of my OTC-drug hazes this past weekend.

Battlecruiser Alamo: The Price of Admiralty (http://www.amazon.com/Battlecruiser-Alamo-Price-Admiralty-Series-ebook/dp/B00DN8XKIK)

Did you read it finally? I know it's only 4 dollah but the signal-to-noise ratio in many of these self published books is cringe-worthy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 23, 2016, 09:22:32 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 23, 2016, 08:20:31 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 23, 2016, 08:12:23 PM
Huh. I don't remember buying this, but apparently I did during one of my OTC-drug hazes this past weekend.

Battlecruiser Alamo: The Price of Admiralty (http://www.amazon.com/Battlecruiser-Alamo-Price-Admiralty-Series-ebook/dp/B00DN8XKIK)

Did you read it finally? I know it's only 4 dollah but the signal-to-noise ratio in many of these self published books is cringe-worthy.

No, I hadn't read it quite yet, but I will give it a shot when I get done with either Invasion (Alien Invasion Book 1) or Invasion Alaska.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 23, 2016, 09:24:34 PM
I think I need to track down a copy of Final Countdown and re-read that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 23, 2016, 09:25:57 PM
Quote from: mirth on February 23, 2016, 09:24:34 PM
I think I need to track down a copy of Final Countdown and re-read that.

Is this the novelization of the movie, or some other Final Countdown?

Please don't let it be Europe.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 23, 2016, 09:32:01 PM
Novelization of the movie. Or maybe the movie was based on the novel. Anyway, I read the novel first. It was pretty good for alt-history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 24, 2016, 06:19:50 AM
Quote from: mirth on February 23, 2016, 09:32:01 PM
Novelization of the movie. Or maybe the movie was based on the novel. Anyway, I read the novel first. It was pretty good for alt-history.

+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 24, 2016, 08:14:54 AM
Huh. Better than the movie?

I really enjoyed the movie; it was pretty awesome. The dogfight scenes alone are well worth the time investment in the entire film.

I want to say the game Carrier has a Nimitz variant, too, though I can't recall offhand. I know some game out there has a Nimitz variant because of this movie. :)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on February 24, 2016, 02:08:21 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2016, 07:02:36 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on February 23, 2016, 11:20:37 AM
I am currently reading Doom of the Dragon by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. It is the fourth book in their Dragonships of Vindras series.

My daughter is a Weis and Hickman nut.  How is that series?  I don't think she's read it.

It's easy reading and I am enjoying it. It might interest you to know that the authors also wrote the Dragonlance series and other books for TSR.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 24, 2016, 07:45:29 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 24, 2016, 08:14:54 AM
Huh. Better than the movie?

I really enjoyed the movie; it was pretty awesome. The dogfight scenes alone are well worth the time investment in the entire film.

I want to say the game Carrier has a Nimitz variant, too, though I can't recall offhand. I know some game out there has a Nimitz variant because of this movie. :)

The original Complete Carriers at War from SSG came with a Final Countdown scenario and someone put together a scenario for the Matrix Reboot of the game as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 24, 2016, 07:57:00 PM
I still have my copy of CCAW. Such a great game.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 24, 2016, 08:18:04 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on February 24, 2016, 02:08:21 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 23, 2016, 07:02:36 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on February 23, 2016, 11:20:37 AM
I am currently reading Doom of the Dragon by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. It is the fourth book in their Dragonships of Vindras series.

My daughter is a Weis and Hickman nut.  How is that series?  I don't think she's read it.

It's easy reading and I am enjoying it. It might interest you to know that the authors also wrote the Dragonlance series and other books for TSR.

Her nuttiness started after I loaned her my Dragons of Autumn Twilight ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 24, 2016, 09:23:32 PM
Quote from: mirth on February 24, 2016, 07:57:00 PM
I still have my copy of CCAW. Such a great game.

That it was. I spent quite a while trying to add the USS Macon to the game, complete with Sparrowhawks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 24, 2016, 09:44:26 PM
I never really knew what I was doing with that game, but I had a lot of fun playing it badly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 25, 2016, 07:21:16 AM
My grandfather had the original CAW for the Apple IIc.

The cover art is terrific:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mobygames.com%2Fimages%2Fcovers%2Fl%2F305553-carriers-at-war-1941-1945-fleet-carrier-operations-in-the-pacific-apple-ii-front-cover.jpg&hash=1e00c4b1350266459b6bc92ce50ad5839ee85bfb)

I played the hell out of that game in the early 80s...it was easily my favorite. And you could go in and create your own scenarios and forces, too...loved doing that, though I generally don't like doing that at all.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fplayitagainproject.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2FCarriers-at-War-Screenshot-AppleII-6.png&hash=8a0d3b80cd00f4bbff58ba19c49eb91efd7d749a)

"RUN5"

:smitten: :smitten: :smitten: :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 25, 2016, 12:10:44 PM
Incidentally, the novel of The Final Countdown came first, and was written by Martin Caidin, the same guy who created the Six Million Dollar Man (also first a novel, though not by that name.)

I remember back in college at UT Knoxville doing a search in the library for his original book, on a whim, and lucking into finding a copy of it in the children's section.

Note: this is not a children's book. At all. Which darkly amused me, but I made sure to point out its misfiling when I returned it. Clearly it had been put there because some geek recognized it as the source material for the show (also not often a children's show really), but it seemed a first edition or anyway published before the first three hit TV movies as the publisher had made no attempt at tying in for marketing. So it wasn't as though kids looking for the Six Million Dollar Man would find it there. (Also I'm not overly sure any kids young enough to be in that section of the library would even know who Steve Austin or the character otherwise was.)

The book itself was an odd case of being closer to the eventual form of the TV show than the original trio of TV movies, although the plot had been closely adapted for the original TV movie. If I recall correctly, the "mission" part of the book's plot however (only about 1/3 to 1/4 of the book) was replaced by a mid-east terrorist plot for the first TV movie, and was ported to the main plot of a subsequent movie. But it's been a good 20 years or more since I read it, so I may be misremembering.

Anyway. Final Countdown, same author. :)

(Though it's entirely possible the movie was novelized, too, by Alan Dean Foster or someone like that.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on February 25, 2016, 12:27:24 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 25, 2016, 07:21:16 AM
My grandfather had the original CAW for the Apple IIc.

....

Get off my lawn!  :tickedoff:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 25, 2016, 12:44:18 PM
Quote from: Barthheart on February 25, 2016, 12:27:24 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on February 25, 2016, 07:21:16 AM
My grandfather had the original CAW for the Apple IIc.

....

Get off my lawn!  :tickedoff:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fjanetterallison.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fblogger%2F-qbyDpCZtpos%2FTvArcdb-74I%2FAAAAAAAAAtg%2FOT2PE8yMlZE%2Fs1600%2Fblog%252Bpooping%252Bdog.jpg&hash=ca065a03a09a8f7a5e075d278cca1cf85236d452)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 25, 2016, 12:48:02 PM
I finished Invasion (http://www.amazon.com/Invasion-Alien-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00TADUV1Q) last night when I couldn't sleep. It was a great read. So good that grabbed the second one.

But, I'll go finish Invasion Alaska first.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 27, 2016, 02:24:19 AM
I finished
Wyrd Sisters by Terry Pratchett (a diskworld book).
Uprooted - this is a Nebula Novel nominee for 2016
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 27, 2016, 04:09:42 AM
Not reading but I'm listening to some audiobooks by Larry Correia.  They're action pulp but quite enjoyable.  The first one is called Dead Six and the sequel is Swords of Exodus.  I thought they'd be more of Correia's weird mix of modern horror/fantasy with liberal amounts of gun porn but they're much more straight laced and there are no magic/horror/fantasy elements (except for the part where the anti-hero beats up Michael Moore at a secret terrorist convention).   And the best part is that they're narrated by Bronson Pinchot.  (kinda sad that he doesn't do the Balki voice though.)

QuoteDead Six

Michael Valentine, air force veteran and former member of a private military company, has been recruited by the government to conduct a secret counter-terror operation in the Persian Gulf. The unit is called Dead Six. Their mission is to take the fight to the enemy and not get caught.  Lorenzo, assassin and thief extraordinaire, is being blackmailed by Southeast Asia's most vicious crime lord. His team has to infiltrate a terrorist network and pull off an impossible heist or his family will die. When Dead Six compromises his objective, Lorenzo has a new job: Find and kill Valentine. As allegiances are betrayed and the nation descends into a bloody civil war, Lorenzo and Valentine must face off.  Two men. Two missions. Only one will win.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 27, 2016, 04:31:33 AM
Turns out Larry's also a gamer nerd as well as an author and a gun nut.  Cool! 

http://monsterhunternation.com/ (http://monsterhunternation.com/)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: avrotim on February 29, 2016, 07:34:37 PM
I am currently re-reading The Shiva Option by David Weber and Steven White, because I can't remember what happens in it from the first time I read it. :(  Getting old kinda sucks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 29, 2016, 08:00:54 PM
Is that the novel where a nuclear sub gets repurposed into a spacecraft, or am I also suffering from Old Brain Syndrome?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: avrotim on February 29, 2016, 08:52:49 PM
Nope...although that certainly sounds like a fun read!

This is part of a series of space-combat novels by Weber and White that was published back in the 1990's.  What I heard was that both authors were also enthusiastic players of the old Task Force scifi game called "Starfire", and that all the action in the books is based on the game.  I have the game too and its a lot of fun.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on March 01, 2016, 03:27:16 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on February 29, 2016, 08:00:54 PM
Is that the novel where a nuclear sub gets repurposed into a spacecraft, or am I also suffering from Old Brain Syndrome?

That would be Vorpal Blade (book 2 of the Looking Glass series) by John Ringo and Travis Taylor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Shelldrake on March 01, 2016, 03:32:12 PM
Quote from: avrotim on February 29, 2016, 07:34:37 PM
I am currently re-reading The Shiva Option by David Weber and Steven White, because I can't remember what happens in it from the first time I read it. :(  Getting old kinda sucks.

The next books in the series (Extremis and Exodus) are good reads too, although Charles Gannon has replaced David Weber as the co-author. A new book in the series - Imperative - has also just been released.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 01, 2016, 03:36:23 PM
Currently reading Bergerud's Touched With Fire: The Land War In The South Pacific, but haven't gotten much past the war's overview yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 01, 2016, 03:44:50 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on March 01, 2016, 03:36:23 PM
Currently reading Bergerud's Touched With Fire: The Land War In The South Pacific, but haven't gotten much past the war's overview yet.

Excellent book!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on March 01, 2016, 03:55:47 PM
the recent dramatisation of the shanarra chronicles has me eyeing the books on amazon
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 01, 2016, 06:24:28 PM
I've read a lot of them and they are not bad. The later 'Voyage of the Jerle Shannara' books are OK as well.

If you like Terry brooks, then try the 'Word and the Void' trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 01, 2016, 07:12:10 PM
Quote from: Shelldrake on March 01, 2016, 03:32:12 PM
Quote from: avrotim on February 29, 2016, 07:34:37 PM
I am currently re-reading The Shiva Option by David Weber and Steven White, because I can't remember what happens in it from the first time I read it. :(  Getting old kinda sucks.

The next books in the series (Extremis and Exodus) are good reads too, although Charles Gannon has replaced David Weber as the co-author. A new book in the series - Imperative - has also just been released.

Thanks Barth. I remember reading the blurb a while back but forgot what book it was for.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 01, 2016, 07:49:59 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on March 01, 2016, 03:55:47 PM
the recent dramatisation of the shanarra chronicles has me eyeing the books on amazon

bob's vote notwithstanding, PLEASE don't read anything by Terry Brooks.  Except for maybe Magic Kingdom For Sale: Sold.  The Shannara books are shite.  Pure and utter.  And if you do read them, when you come back here to announce how crappy they were, I will be glad to say I told you so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 01, 2016, 08:10:49 PM
And for the love of God, PLEASE don't read anything by Harry Turtledove. He has great ideas but develops characters in his stories like cardboard cut-outs in third-grader plays. His books are basically shiny Maaco paint jobs over a thoroughly rusted-through junker POS car - looks awesome at a distance, smells like cat vomit and old people farts close up. Ugh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 01, 2016, 08:37:46 PM
I'm with you on that, B_C.  The only Turtledove book I ever read was Guns of the South.  Upon finishing, I decided I wouldn't read another of Turtledove's books.  And I haven't.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: avrotim on March 01, 2016, 11:08:39 PM
I've given up on Turtledove as well.  His series never end, and he keeps killing off characters for no reason.  The only book I liked was "Ruled Britannia", which, while very long, was at least just one book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: avrotim on March 01, 2016, 11:12:26 PM
Weber seems to be going the same route with the Honor Harrington series.  The first 3 books were fantastic, the next couple were good, but the rest have just gone steadily downhill. In one of those later books, the main character isnt even in it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 02, 2016, 06:37:39 AM
Quote from: avrotim on March 01, 2016, 11:12:26 PM
Weber seems to be going the same route with the Honor Harrington series.  The first 3 books were fantastic, the next couple were good, but the rest have just gone steadily downhill. In one of those later books, the main character isnt even in it!

Weber had actually planned to kill off HH a few books back, letting some of the younger characters come to the forefront, but fan pressure made him keep her alive. Instead he spun off several divergent series that run concurrently with the main story line, one set in the Talbott Cluster and one following the emergence of the planet Torch and it's role in the slow breakup of the Solaria League Frontier. Both of them also focus heavily on the Mesan puppet-masters and their centuries-long machinations.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: avrotim on March 02, 2016, 10:13:40 AM
Quotehe spun off several divergent series that run concurrently with the main story line, one set in the Talbott Cluster and one following the emergence of the planet Torch and it's role in the slow breakup of the Solaria League Frontier. Both of them also focus heavily on the Mesan puppet-masters and their centuries-long machinations.

Zzzzzzzzz 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on March 02, 2016, 07:48:54 PM
Finished reading Otto Carius' Tigers in the Mud and started Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. Wanted to read that novella before I start on King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 02, 2016, 08:31:08 PM
King Leopold's Ghost is fantastic! It will make you wince the next time anyone says 'poor little Belgium.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 03, 2016, 09:16:56 AM
I've dove into my annual re-reading of Asimov's Foundation series.  I'm always amazed (but pleased) by how easily it reads for me.  :smitten: 




Quote from: avrotim on March 01, 2016, 11:08:39 PM
I've given up on Turtledove as well.  His series never end, and he keeps killing off characters for no reason.  The only book I liked was "Ruled Britannia", which, while very long, was at least just one book.
I'm a big fan of Ruled Britannia as well.  I also enjoy In the Presence of Mine Enemies, even if it's not as fun or lighthearted a read (obviously, given the material it's dealing with).  I wonder if Turtledove does better with just standalone novels? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 03, 2016, 09:27:18 AM
One of the first Turtledove books I read was Guns of the South. I admit, I enjoyed it, even though it was hamfisted.

I will never, ever forgive him for wasting my time reading the four Worldwar series. I loved the premise and the first book was decent enough, but nothing really happened. None of the characters developed. I kept waiting for the storyline (very, VERY patiently, I might add) to start amping up but it slowly became apparent that I was reading a book about a painting that did nothing but sit there. None of his characters developed at all, grew, changed, or did anything other than be one-dimensional puppets.

I kept thinking, "there HAS to be something big coming up..." ...but no, nothing. By the end of Book 4 he'd killed off some of the main characters (which didn't matter since he never developed them and you never felt any connection to any of them) and I was in no mood to continue with the next series, Colonization. :(

I tried a few of his other series (starting with How Few Remain, and tried the one where the Japanese invade and conquer Hawaii), but it was just more of the goddamned same! Boring characters. I had these books as a child that I loved where you could punch out buildings that folded together to make 3D representations, like train stations and stuff like that; the punch-out people from those books had more character than Turtledove puts in his books.

If Turtledove does it for any of you...good for you! But me...no. Never again.

Plus his publishers are assh*les, which I know I've mentioned before.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: avrotim on March 03, 2016, 10:29:57 AM
Yep.  I am still willing to read a stand-alone book of his, but I wont be sucked into another never-ending-series.  In fact I think I will go back and re-read Ruled Britannia.  Using Shakespeare as the main character in a treason plot is clever, and he actually does get to you care about him!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 03, 2016, 10:35:27 AM
To Hell and Back: Europe, 1914-1949 by Ian Kershaw
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 03, 2016, 03:26:24 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on March 02, 2016, 07:48:54 PM
Finished reading Otto Carius' Tigers in the Mud and started Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. Wanted to read that novella before I start on King Leopold's Ghost by Adam Hochschild.

I've been meaning to get 'Tigers in the Mud' for a long time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 03, 2016, 07:03:41 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on March 03, 2016, 09:27:18 AM
One of the first Turtledove books I read was Guns of the South. I admit, I enjoyed it, even though it was hamfisted.

I will never, ever forgive him for wasting my time reading the four Worldwar series. I loved the premise and the first book was decent enough, but nothing really happened. None of the characters developed. I kept waiting for the storyline (very, VERY patiently, I might add) to start amping up but it slowly became apparent that I was reading a book about a painting that did nothing but sit there. None of his characters developed at all, grew, changed, or did anything other than be one-dimensional puppets.

I kept thinking, "there HAS to be something big coming up..." ...but no, nothing. By the end of Book 4 he'd killed off some of the main characters (which didn't matter since he never developed them and you never felt any connection to any of them) and I was in no mood to continue with the next series, Colonization. :(

I tried a few of his other series (starting with How Few Remain, and tried the one where the Japanese invade and conquer Hawaii), but it was just more of the goddamned same! Boring characters. I had these books as a child that I loved where you could punch out buildings that folded together to make 3D representations, like train stations and stuff like that; the punch-out people from those books had more character than Turtledove puts in his books.

If Turtledove does it for any of you...good for you! But me...no. Never again.

Plus his publishers are assh*les, which I know I've mentioned before.

I'm good with Turtledove except the World War/Aliens one.  But I read books like that right before going to bed to help me sleep (no kidding).

Why the hate for Del Ray?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 03, 2016, 07:05:02 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 27, 2016, 04:31:33 AM
Turns out Larry's also a gamer nerd as well as an author and a gun nut.  Cool! 

http://monsterhunternation.com/ (http://monsterhunternation.com/)

The audio books for the Monster Hunter and Grim Noire series are both better than the Dead Six books.  He has won multiple "audies" for the audio versions in these series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 03, 2016, 07:46:37 PM
Quote from: airboy on March 03, 2016, 07:03:41 PM
Why the hate for Del Ray?

I meant his personal publishers, not Del Ray. I've had a run-in or two with them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 03, 2016, 08:44:09 PM
Ooh I have To Hell and Back on my to-read queue...what do you think of it so far mirth?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 03, 2016, 08:51:36 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 03, 2016, 08:44:09 PM
Ooh I have To Hell and Back on my to-read queue...what do you think of it so far mirth?

One of the most engrossing books I've picked up in awhile. Remarkably easy to read as well. Kershaw does an excellent job of exploring the political underpinnings of Europe during the period. Some of his lines of reasoning are refreshingly different from conventional wisdom.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 03, 2016, 08:57:02 PM
He is a kick ass writer. Maybe I should move it up in the queue.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 03, 2016, 09:16:06 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 03, 2016, 08:57:02 PM
He is a kick ass writer. Maybe I should move it up in the queue.

Not a terrible idea  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 04, 2016, 10:44:55 AM
How far along are you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 04, 2016, 10:56:05 AM
Only about 90 pages or so. Just finished with WWI. The political upheavals are about to begin.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 04, 2016, 05:22:24 PM
I'll get some popcorn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 04, 2016, 05:24:34 PM
Ludendorff was a real asshole.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on March 04, 2016, 05:29:23 PM
About to start My Enemy, My Ally by Diane Duane for the second time since 1984. It's mirth's fault.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 04, 2016, 05:30:52 PM
I'm like Ludendorff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on March 04, 2016, 05:43:43 PM
You mean Lumberg.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Fpics%2Flumberg.jpg&hash=ece4457a316f238a20c5ab795213bebd1c69ed57)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 04, 2016, 05:44:57 PM
^ That makes more sense.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 04, 2016, 09:28:23 PM
Lumberg Ludendorff says 'yeah if you could take out the Russians by 1917 that would be GREAT.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 05, 2016, 05:06:14 PM
<snicker>




Quote from: bbmike on March 04, 2016, 05:29:23 PM
About to start My Enemy, My Ally by Diane Duane for the second time since 1984. It's mirth's fault.
Good luck, bbmike!  Here's hoping you enjoy it more this time around.  The Rihannsu novels are almost certainly my favorite Star Trek series. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 06, 2016, 03:39:15 PM
Just finished Lines of Departure by Marko Kloos and it was excellent...better than Terms of Enlistment IMHO. People giving it poor reviews are arses. Definitely buying the next two books in the series.

Now about to start reading 'The Sea Wolves - A History of the Vikings' by Lars Brownnorth.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on March 09, 2016, 06:30:59 AM
So I started My Enemy, My Ally (again). It didn't take long before the first ???  A Horta crew member. (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Fpics%2Fgrolleyes.gif&hash=3082cfa9c4c2bb9de30ce31bfd227c876ada77fe)
I remember an early Star Trek novel with a Horta crew member. Please tell me if this novel is the one where [spoiler in white text]later the Horta comes screaming through the atmosphere to save the day. (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Fpics%2Fshakehead.gif&hash=d6326b4159f7e626ec4cddc26ebf21b107565a04)[/spoiler] If so, I'll stop now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 10, 2016, 11:51:51 AM
Got a chance to do a lot of reading on my flights this week and got just over halfway through Invasion Rabaul: The Epic Story of Lark Force, the Forgotten Garrison, January - July 1942 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K4SEXKG/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?ie=UTF8&btkr=1). It's a great read but admittedly I lost track of all the different groups as they fled through the jungles of Rabaul. Still, it is a fascinating insight into the Australian defense mindset at the outbreak of war; it was a tragedy just waiting to happen.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 15, 2016, 09:27:37 AM
Just picked-up, "War At The End Of The World" by James Duffy and by B.H. Liddell Hart, "Scipio Africanus- Greater Than Napoleon". Which to start first?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hancock on March 15, 2016, 04:40:26 PM
Dead Wake by Eric Larson.  Well researched and written story of the sinking of the British Cunard luxury liner Lusitania by a U-Boat just off the coast of Ireland in 1915...an act that arguably finally pushed the US into WWI.  Perspectives from the passengers and crew, the U-Boat captain and Great Britain's/Germany's strategies in battling for domination of the seas around the islands.  And the mind numbing series of events that, despite many warnings of potential German attacks on all shipping, led to the unescorted passenger liner falling victim to a U-Boat prowling where it was not intendedd to be.  A great read.


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 23, 2016, 09:19:40 AM
I'm reading Shattered Sword about Midway.  Totally different take on the IJN and Yamato.  The authors claim that many critical aspects on the IJN, their strategy, strategic result of the battle, and even a couple of things about the battle itself were historically wrong.  The authors went back to Japanese source documents.

I'm more digesting this book than doing a straight read.  It contradicts much of what I thought happened from the IJN strategic and tactical doctrine from other Midway books I've read that it is a slow go with quite a bit of bookmarking.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on March 23, 2016, 10:10:36 AM
Re-reading "Protector" by Larry Niven. Great yarn around how humans were a lost colony of an alien race known as the Pak.

I'll read just about anything by Niven.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 23, 2016, 10:32:39 AM
^I love the 'Ringworld' books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on March 23, 2016, 09:39:05 PM
One of my favorite Niven works is the short story collection "Neutron Star". It has several stories featuring Beowulf Shaeffer, starship pilot and man about space. Good stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 26, 2016, 08:02:21 PM
About to start Enoch's Device by Joseph Finley, a historical fantasy thriller set in 10th century France. Just finished up some Osprey reading on Pict warriors and fortresses.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on April 02, 2016, 07:19:39 PM
Finished Adam Hochschild's "King Leopold's Ghost" and I highly recommend it.

Started Peter H. Wilson's "Europe's Tragedy: A New History of the Thirty Years War". Might buy Ageod's game on this war depending on how this book goes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 02, 2016, 08:36:44 PM
Glad you liked King Leopold's Ghost. One of my favorite books on African history. Makes it hard to look at 'poor little Belgium' the same way after reading it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on April 02, 2016, 09:48:56 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 02, 2016, 08:36:44 PM
Glad you liked King Leopold's Ghost. One of my favorite books on African history. Makes it hard to look at 'poor little Belgium' the same way after reading it.
Yes, definitely so. Interesting to read that even after Belgium took over the colony, things didn't change much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 02, 2016, 10:01:58 PM
Yes. What struck me was that the Belgians could have changed the status quo there but instead used it to milk the Congo for all it was worth and more. Classic imperialism, unfortunately.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 02, 2016, 11:26:24 PM
I am in the middle of reading Midnight Rising: John Brown and the Raid that Sparked the Civil War by Tony Horwitz.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 12, 2016, 12:41:54 PM
I believe someone else mentioned reading it not that long ago, but I've just started Of Dice and Men: The Story of Dungeons & Dragons and the People Who Play It by David M. Ewalt.  It was lent it to me a couple months ago by my friend Amy, who (along with myself and quite a few others here) is a big D&D fan.  Definitely a solid read thus far. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 13, 2016, 12:06:08 PM
I am about two-thirds of the way through Five Days that Shocked the World: Eyewitness Accounts from Europe at the End of World War II by Nicholas Best.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 13, 2016, 06:47:56 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 13, 2016, 12:06:08 PM
I am about two-thirds of the way through Five Days that Shocked the World: Eyewitness Accounts from Europe at the End of World War II by Nicholas Best.

That sounds intriguing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 13, 2016, 06:54:00 PM
Fire in the Sky: The Air War in the South Pacific by Eric M. Bergerud

http://www.amazon.com/Fire-In-The-Sky-Pacific/dp/0813338697
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 14, 2016, 06:29:19 AM
Fire in the Sky is also the title of a book on the first Battle of Britain (1917) that's been on my list forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 14, 2016, 09:26:05 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on April 13, 2016, 06:47:56 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 13, 2016, 12:06:08 PM
I am about two-thirds of the way through Five Days that Shocked the World: Eyewitness Accounts from Europe at the End of World War II by Nicholas Best.

That sounds intriguing.

It's interesting and I have learned some things I wasn't aware of before.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on April 14, 2016, 08:50:12 PM
Scouts Out (http://www.amazon.com/Scouts-Out-Books-One-Two-ebook/dp/B01BJ3G8K2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1460684840&sr=8-1&keywords=scouts+out) by Danny Loomis. This one is surprising me by being really good military science fiction. The characters and story line don't seem forced and it flows nicely.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 15, 2016, 10:16:07 PM
I just started reading We Were Soldiers Once...and Young: Ia Drang-The Battle That Changed the War in Vietnam by Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore (Ret.) and Joseph L. Galloway.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 19, 2016, 05:20:12 PM
^Classic.

I am about to start The Edge of the World - A Cultural History of the North Sea and the Transformation of Europe by Michael Pye.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 19, 2016, 06:20:25 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 19, 2016, 05:20:12 PM
^Classic.

I am about to start The Edge of the World - A Cultural History of the North Sea and the Transformation of Europe by Michael Pye.

Wow- Longships and Cogs, Vikings and Hanseatics, oh my! I'll have to add that to my wishlist.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 19, 2016, 06:47:21 PM
I had been virtually fondling it for a while and the the NYTimes reviewed it out of the blue a few weeks ago and made it sound pretty epic. Couldn't resist. I begin tonight after also cracking open the Grand Ages: Medieval campaign. Good times.

I have been looking for a relatively new, inexpensive book on The Hanse but haven't been able to find anything for quite some time. Got any recommendations?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on April 30, 2016, 02:04:07 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 15, 2016, 10:16:07 PM
I just started reading We Were Soldiers Once...and Young: Ia Drang-The Battle That Changed the War in Vietnam by Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore (Ret.) and Joseph L. Galloway.

Quote from: Gusington on April 19, 2016, 05:20:12 PM
^Classic....

I am about to finish We Were Soldiers Once...and Young: Ia Drang-The Battle That Changed the War in Vietnam. My tour of duty in Vietnam started about 2.5 years before the time the events described in this book took place. I saw some action during my tour but nothing as bad (thank God!) as what Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore (Ret.) and Joseph L. Galloway describe--they were in nightmare situations! I purchased the movie and will watch it once I've finished reading the book to see how true it is to the events in the book--if I can, that is; it may be too much for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 30, 2016, 08:42:12 PM
What rank were you there?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 01, 2016, 12:30:06 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 30, 2016, 08:42:12 PM
What rank were you there?

I arrived in Vietnam as a Private (E-2), was automatically promoted to Private First Class (E-3), and made Specialist (E-4) before I left on emergency leave after a little over 10 months in country.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JudgeDredd on May 01, 2016, 12:44:41 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 30, 2016, 02:04:07 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 15, 2016, 10:16:07 PM
I just started reading We Were Soldiers Once...and Young: Ia Drang-The Battle That Changed the War in Vietnam by Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore (Ret.) and Joseph L. Galloway.

Quote from: Gusington on April 19, 2016, 05:20:12 PM
^Classic....

I am about to finish We Were Soldiers Once...and Young: Ia Drang-The Battle That Changed the War in Vietnam. My tour of duty in Vietnam started about 2.5 years before the time the events described in this book took place. I saw some action during my tour but nothing as bad (thank God!) as what Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore (Ret.) and Joseph L. Galloway describe--they were in nightmare situations! I purchased the movie and will watch it once I've finished reading the book to see how true it is to the events in the book--if I can, that is; it may be too much for me.
That is a superb book and a great film. I love how the book took you to LZ Albany with the relief battalion. Really gripping book.

I watched the film and then got the book. The film was fantastic too....they really seem to capture the hot LZ (although I guess you would have more of an insight to that than I would). There are accuracies and inaccuracies in the movie - it is Hollywood after all. But overall I thought it stayed pretty faithful to the book
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JudgeDredd on May 01, 2016, 12:47:41 AM
I've currently just finished Red Storm Rising. I believe that's the second time I've read that book.

I ought to stop re-reading books because it takes me an age to read (as I only read when I go to bed and therefore, tired). It took me 6 months to read the book - and it certainly didn't take me that long the first time I read it.

Next up? The Wild Geese I think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 01, 2016, 12:03:32 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 15, 2016, 10:16:07 PM
I just started reading We Were Soldiers Once...and Young: Ia Drang-The Battle That Changed the War in Vietnam by Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore (Ret.) and Joseph L. Galloway.

General Moore is a member of my parish in Auburn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 01, 2016, 12:06:55 PM
I've finished a bunch of (mostly, non-military) books recently.

Silence by Mercades Lackey - modern, dark young adult fantasy.  I would give it a pass.
Shattered Sword about Midway - very good if you are interested in Midway.  Learned quite a bit.
Changeling Isle - a young adult book with light fantasy.  Coming of age of a young male who is sent to live with his half-blind grandmother in a remote island off of Australia.  Very pleasant and fun read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on May 01, 2016, 10:14:17 PM
Red Phoenix Burning by Larry Bond. North Korea implodes and the South invades. Really enjoying it so far. I'd read Red Phoenix back in the day so it's great seeing some of the old characters back.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 02, 2016, 08:55:28 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on May 01, 2016, 10:14:17 PM
Red Phoenix Burning by Larry Bond. North Korea implodes and the South invades. Really enjoying it so far. I'd read Red Phoenix back in the day so it's great seeing some of the old characters back.

How is that book?  I read Red Phoenix two or three times and still own the hardback.  Is the quality of the sequel as good as the original?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 02, 2016, 10:59:59 AM
Quote from: airboy on May 01, 2016, 12:03:32 PM
General Moore is a member of my parish in Auburn.

Wow!  :o O0

Quote from: Greybriar on April 30, 2016, 02:04:07 PM
I purchased the movie and will watch it once I've finished reading the book to see how true it is to the events in the book--if I can, that is; it may be too much for me.

The movie is more than a little intense in spots. I'm not sure it was a good idea for my Dad to watch it. (At the time we didn't realize that he had been involved in secret spec op support for teams in-country before the draft started; he'd help crew choppers flying in from offshore to bring supplies, evac wounded.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on May 03, 2016, 06:48:25 AM
Quote from: airboy on May 02, 2016, 08:55:28 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on May 01, 2016, 10:14:17 PM
Red Phoenix Burning by Larry Bond. North Korea implodes and the South invades. Really enjoying it so far. I'd read Red Phoenix back in the day so it's great seeing some of the old characters back.

How is that book?  I read Red Phoenix two or three times and still own the hardback.  Is the quality of the sequel as good as the original?

I'm not even halfway through it yet so it's hard to make a judgement, but from what I've read so far, yes. A lot of the old characters are back and then there are the new ones who have connections back to the first book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 03, 2016, 06:57:53 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on May 03, 2016, 06:48:25 AM
Quote from: airboy on May 02, 2016, 08:55:28 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on May 01, 2016, 10:14:17 PM
Red Phoenix Burning by Larry Bond. North Korea implodes and the South invades. Really enjoying it so far. I'd read Red Phoenix back in the day so it's great seeing some of the old characters back.

How is that book?  I read Red Phoenix two or three times and still own the hardback.  Is the quality of the sequel as good as the original?

I've been eyeing this one. Thanks Pinetree!
I'm not even halfway through it yet so it's hard to make a judgement, but from what I've read so far, yes. A lot of the old characters are back and then there are the new ones who have connections back to the first book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 03, 2016, 02:29:41 PM
I wasn't a huge fan of Red Phoenix, but I did recently reread it (well I skimmed it). Tempted to check out the sequel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 03, 2016, 02:49:32 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on May 02, 2016, 10:59:59 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on April 30, 2016, 02:04:07 PM

I purchased the movie and will watch it once I've finished reading the book to see how true it is to the events in the book--if I can, that is; it may be too much for me.

The movie is more than a little intense in spots. I'm not sure it was a good idea for my Dad to watch it. (At the time we didn't realize that he had been involved in secret spec op support for teams in-country before the draft started; he'd help crew choppers flying in from offshore to bring supplies, evac wounded.)

I just finished watching the movie. It had its moments but the book is more complete. Perhaps it was seeing those Hueys that got to your dad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 03, 2016, 05:04:15 PM
I must have read Red Phoenix 25 years ago...I barely remember it. Was it the book where N. Korea invaded the south mainly through tunnels?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 04, 2016, 09:28:15 AM
Just finished, "War At The End Of The World" by James Duffy about the WWII in New Guinea. Great book, lots of details from both sides though Duffy comes-off as a bit of a Mc Arthur Fan-boy. And again, very few decent maps to follow the action--- my pet peeve. Next up is, "Scipio Africanius" by B.H. Liddell Hart. When I got this book, I knew Hart had been dead for some time now but I didn't realize he wrote this book in 1926!. So it probably has some people in it that were actually with Scipio at the time.  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 04, 2016, 09:59:08 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 03, 2016, 05:04:15 PM
I must have read Red Phoenix 25 years ago...I barely remember it. Was it the book where N. Korea invaded the south mainly through tunnels?

Yes.  Red Phoenix came out close to Red Storm Rising - a better book.  Still, Red Phoenix was a fun read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 04, 2016, 10:03:12 AM
I'm about half way through "The Fall of Japan" by William Craig.

I've not been that impressed.  But I've read American Caesar and the Rising Sun by Toland which cover the end of the war in a more interesting fashion.  I think I had too much background knowledge to appreciate The Fall of Japan which is more of a broad overview.  Some of the diplomatic maneuvers with Japan in late 1944 to May 1945 are weird due to the psyche of the Japanese military and civilian leadership.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 04, 2016, 03:26:05 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on May 03, 2016, 02:49:32 PM
I just finished watching the movie. It had its moments but the book is more complete. Perhaps it was seeing those Hueys that got to your dad.

The wounded on the Huey evacs. And how they got wounded (which naturally he was rarely there to see).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 04, 2016, 08:12:20 PM
Thanks Airboy. IIRC I enjoyed Red Phoenix. Had no idea there was a sequel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on May 07, 2016, 05:29:59 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on May 03, 2016, 06:48:25 AM
Quote from: airboy on May 02, 2016, 08:55:28 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on May 01, 2016, 10:14:17 PM
Red Phoenix Burning by Larry Bond. North Korea implodes and the South invades. Really enjoying it so far. I'd read Red Phoenix back in the day so it's great seeing some of the old characters back.

How is that book?  I read Red Phoenix two or three times and still own the hardback.  Is the quality of the sequel as good as the original?

I'm not even halfway through it yet so it's hard to make a judgement, but from what I've read so far, yes. A lot of the old characters are back and then there are the new ones who have connections back to the first book.

I've just finished it. It's pretty good, I'd give it a 3 out of 5. It's definitely not a rehash of the original, but not quite as epic neither. The story flows well and there are some nice set-pieces but the final showdown doesn't quite have that knife-edged feel a techno-thriller should have. I still enjoyed it though, what made it for me was seeing some of the old characters again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 15, 2016, 03:04:31 PM
I'm reading "Echoes of a Haunting - Revisited" by Clara Miller. Terrible writing and her narrative voice reminds me of listening to my Mom tell old wives tales, but if even one percent of this ghost story is indeed true then it's pretty insane.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 15, 2016, 04:00:16 PM
Just finished Ready Player One.  HIGHLY recommend it to any child/fan of the 80's, video games, D&D and geeky nerddom in general.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 15, 2016, 05:33:35 PM
^I've been wanting to read that for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 15, 2016, 05:58:25 PM
Then you should make time for it today.  It was a joy.  And the musical references are more up your alley than mine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 15, 2016, 06:00:57 PM
The third book in the Hell's Gate series by David Weber & friends just came out, 10 years after the first one (!). I actually gave up waiting after a few years so I'm pleasantly surprised.

Hell's Gate (http://www.amazon.com/Hells-Gate-BOOK-MULTIVERSE-Multiverse/dp/1416555412/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1463351930&sr=8-2&keywords=hell%27s+gate)

Hell hath no fury (http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Hath-No-Fury-Multiverse/dp/141655551X/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0YZ1ZQ42SY4GKTH8E630)

The Road to Hell (http://www.amazon.com/Road-Hell-Multiverse-David-Weber/dp/1476780676/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=01K52ZPSJTS7FEN47K1D)



It's been so long that I'm re-reading the first two books just to refresh my memory. The series is about what happens when two different civilizations in different parallel Earths, one based on magic 'technology' with no real material technology beyond that of the middle ages, and one roughly equivalent to our world around 1900 with some psychic elements, begin exploring huge multidimensional portals that started appearing roughly 100-150 years before the events in the books. Eventually the two civilizations bump into one another and a misunderstanding leads to war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on May 15, 2016, 06:10:02 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fgrogheads.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F05%2FZOC-SPLASH.jpg&hash=ba2a2567cd024e5940c42f3ce30212163d2dff55) (http://grogheads.com/?p=11236)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 15, 2016, 06:27:55 PM
^Yeah, I saw that. Nice writeup  O0.  I wish listed it for near-future purchase.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 15, 2016, 09:19:15 PM
Very nice review. Don't know if I want to read the whole book though. Interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 25, 2016, 09:52:31 AM
I'm currently reading 'The Thirty Years war' by Friedrich Schiller. Interesting but pretty heavy going in places.

This has also got me reading the standard rules to GMT's 'Musket & Pike' series games..............
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 25, 2016, 07:53:43 PM
I've been looking for a lighter Thirty Years War book seemingly forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 26, 2016, 02:44:55 PM
I suspect there is no such thing, it really is an amazingly complicated period. However, a small handy book on the war is the one in the Osprey 'Essential Histories' series, entitled, strangely enough, 'The Thirty Years' War 1618-1648'

Oh, and I've just ordered a copy of 'Saints in Armor' which is one of GMT's Musket and Pike series of games.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 26, 2016, 05:04:40 PM
^I'll wait for you to write your memoirs of the era.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 27, 2016, 04:49:58 AM
I'll send you a signed copy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2016, 07:07:18 AM
Sign with a quill, for authenticity.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 27, 2016, 11:06:07 AM
...extra 5 dolla...........
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2016, 11:07:59 AM
Gus can't spare $5. He needs every penny for TW: Warhammer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 27, 2016, 11:10:27 AM
You mean he's a little short right now?

...OK, 4.50.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 27, 2016, 11:12:39 AM
I've been reading a little here and there. Usually I get in about 30 minutes, tops, just before bed, but I've been struggling to find something decent and keep jumping around.

Snow Crash continues to get my attention off and on. Although, my latest quit from this odd hodgepodge of futurepunk type fiction was over the main character having a LONG, LONG, LONG and utterly dull discussion about religion with an A.I. librarian. Holy hell it just NEVER ended. Maybe I'll try again sometime.

Trying to read through Red Hope: A Modern Day Adventure Technothriller by John Dreese. The premise was interesting - Curiosity finds a fossil on Mars, a crash Mars mission is implemented...but I'm having problems with it. The civvie that built the rocket engines (which are some fictional new technology where they run forever and use very little gas) that push them to Mars in one month (yes, one) gets to be one of the four crew members. But he has severe claustrophobia. He blackmailed NASA to let him go along or he'd withhold the tech. This, after he screwed the Russian space program by backing out of a deal and not repaying the 20 million he received for it. How he avoids getting killed by the Putin assassins is beyond me, but apparently all is well because NASA is threatened to have all access to their Soyuz rockets for trips to the Space Station removed, because of the back-out deal, but only if they take a cosmonaut with them. The other two are just generally bad characters, but astronauts apparently. You'd think the author would kind of indicate some adeptness at astronauting by the characters in his book, but they're constantly doing stupid things (oops, I forgot to ground the ship! oops, I forgot NASA was calling us!). They just seem like a bunch of amateurs, though the mission commander is a veteran of a Shuttle mission. He doesn't act the part, though. I'm losing my buy-in to this book fast and I'm about 60% through the book (they just landed on Mars). I might stick around for a bit longer, but I can't stand stuff like this - it takes me out of the story.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: veb_yw on May 27, 2016, 06:20:22 PM
Battle Cry of Freedom by James McPherson
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 27, 2016, 10:00:07 PM
Awesome book.  First time?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2016, 10:04:07 PM
Holy crap. That book's a classic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: veb_yw on May 28, 2016, 06:39:04 AM
Yes, first time with Battle Cry! The book is great although the maps are too small so it is difficult to follow the battles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 28, 2016, 07:22:52 AM
I won a copy of that way back when Sid Meier released Gettysburg. Sadly it wasn't signed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 28, 2016, 09:19:10 AM
Quote from: veb_yw on May 27, 2016, 06:20:22 PM
Battle Cry of Freedom by James McPherson

Excellent book. I've read it maybe 3 times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 30, 2016, 11:50:43 AM
Re-read Jurassic Park this weekend. First time in 20-plus years that I've read it. Terrific book. Perfect summer read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 03, 2016, 01:45:36 PM
Even his own The Lost World wasn't too bad, although I only recall that it wasn't too bad -- so I must have only read it once, then had all memory obliterated by the movie (for better and/or for worse).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 03, 2016, 01:58:33 PM
Speaking of dinosaurs (sort of, maybe, or maybe giant prehistoric seals) in the (sort of) modern world, I'm currently scanning through Oudemans' The Great Sea Serpent. Originally published back in the late 1800s (this is a modern hardback reprint), the author is a naturalist who has done his best to collect all printed accounts up to that date of animals thought to be a giant sea-serpent, and then collate them in chronological order, with reports he deems mistakes or frauds excerpted in their own category.

Keeping in mind further variances for mistaken details in the accounts -- which also involves him explaining away some variant details or lacks of them to theorize how the accounts can fit his theory -- he infers from the majority of reports, the existence, not of a reptile or living dinosaur (although he isn't against the idea of living prehistoric animals, he just doesn't think the accounts as a majority point that way), but of a pretty dang freaky seal or sea lion species with a super-long neck, body, and tail (as distinct parts, unlike serpents). Possibly still prehistoric of course, from the age of giant mammals.

One of the things that struck me while reading it, which I'm surprised the author hasn't mentioned yet (although he might still do so in his concluding chapters), is that his collected descriptions of how the animal moves (undulating up and down like other water-going mammals) and its mane (for some animals) and eyebrows and whiskers and large eyes, plus its small four fins, synch up very well with Asian notions of sea (and sky?) dragons, even down to modern day art -- although they don't tend to represent a proper difference in the body per se compared to the neck and tail.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 03, 2016, 02:01:34 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 03, 2016, 01:45:36 PM
Even his own The Lost World wasn't too bad, although I only recall that it wasn't too bad -- so I must have only read it once, then had all memory obliterated by the movie (for better and/or for worse).

Didn't read it. The only sequel that Crichton ever wrote. Spielberg talked him into it.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 05, 2016, 11:06:03 AM
Finishing up The Scourge series by Roberto Calas, one of the few series I have read and probably the first series I have finished. Zombies in medieval England. Very well written, quick paced and funny as Hell in some spots...most of you guys would love it. Later today moving on to Under the Black Flag by David Cordingly, a history of the Age of Pirates. Unless I get swept away by a flood or killed by a tornado first.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 05, 2016, 11:17:35 AM
Good luck with the tornado/flood thing.  And what?  No zombie pirates on the high seas?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 05, 2016, 11:20:57 AM
My reading habits have not evolved to that advanced stage yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 05, 2016, 11:38:10 AM
http://smile.amazon.com/Fell-Cargo-Warhammer-Novels-Abnett/dp/1844163016/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465144640&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=Warhammer+Corsair+pirates
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 05, 2016, 11:40:37 AM
See?  Something to aspire to :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 05, 2016, 01:35:17 PM
My aspiration is to one day be writing and publishing the stuff!

THE STUFF [tm].
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 06, 2016, 12:25:04 PM
I just started reading Of Dice and Men: The Story of Dungeons & Dragons and The People Who Play It by David M. Ewalt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 06, 2016, 06:18:55 PM
Be interested in your impressions when done, Greybriar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 08, 2016, 08:13:35 AM
Just finished 'The Thirty Years War - Complete' by Schiller, and now about to start 'Civil War - The War of the Three Kingdoms 1638-1660'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 08, 2016, 12:27:53 PM
^Just can't get enough of those good times can you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 08, 2016, 12:30:59 PM
;-))
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on June 08, 2016, 06:31:20 PM
You'd like to be a writer, Gus?
Something to consider.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 08, 2016, 08:05:03 PM
^Uh thanks.I was actually assigned to read Elements of Style in 8th grade, I still have the copy around here somewhere.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 09, 2016, 04:47:52 PM
In the middle of The Thousand Mile War right now. Really enjoying it. Also just finished listening to Ghost Fleet on audio book (enjoyable) and just started Red Phoenix Burning on audio book. The book itself is entertaining enough, but the RFB narrator is the first one I've listened to that makes me want to move on to a different book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 10, 2016, 08:49:33 AM
I just finished up Brandon Sanderson's Steelheart a couple days ago, which I didn't realize (til I was done) was the first book in the Reckoners Trilogy.  Now I gotta get my hands on the other two books (Firefight and Calamity), as it was probably his best book yet, at least of the ones I've read so far -- all the more remarkable given that it's not fantasy, sci-fi (well, it sort of is, but not really), or historical fiction, which are my usual fare.  As Sanderson's career has continued, he's definitely gotten better at fleshing out his characters and (even more importantly IMO) improving his pacing; the book moved along well at all points.  I definitely look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy! 

Am now engaging in a bit of lighter reading with the novelization of Star Trek: First Contact, which was gifted to me by a friend.  It's been...okay so far.  It's not bad, but I suspect I (ironically) will end up not enjoying it nearly as much as I did the movie itself. 

On deck after this are two books I checked out the library today:  Mother of Kings by Poul Anderson (I enjoy his sci-fi writing, so I'm curious to see what/how he does with mythical/historical fiction), and Ready Player One by Ernest Cline.  Given that everyone and their mother-in-law has suddenly been recommending the latter to me -- seriously, I've now had five people (including MetalDog) tell me just in the last 3-4 weeks that I need to read this one -- I decided that perhaps I should see what all the fuss is about...   




Quote from: Greybriar on June 06, 2016, 12:25:04 PM
I just started reading Of Dice and Men: The Story of Dungeons & Dragons and The People Who Play It by David M. Ewalt.
If you enjoy it even half as much as I did, Greybriar, it'll have been time well-spent.  The book has lot of fascinating information on the history of D&D, as well as being a love-letter to the game (along with RPG's and wargaming in general). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 10, 2016, 11:26:37 AM
I started reading The Miraculous Torpedo Squadron (https://www.amazon.com/Miraculous-Torpedo-Squadron-x16B-Mori-ebook/dp/B00THSCSS8) by Jūzõ Mori on my Kindle. Despite my insane schedule lately I always try to take 10-20 minutes to read before sleeping (sorta) for the night, and this one has kept me going for a good 30 or so minutes, or more, at times. It's a fascinating account of a Japanese torpedo bomber pilot, whom not only served in China before the war began with America, he also dropped a torpedo that hit the California and helped defeat our Wake Island defenses when the Soryu and another carrier altered course to help support that failing invasion. I'm halfway through it but it's still early 1942, before the Coral Sea battle, so there's a lot more to read through. He went into great detail of what life was like on the carrier as they crossed the Pacific, aiming for Hawaii. Before that, he talked a lot about his upbringing, how he joined the IJN and became a pilot candidate, all about his training, and the fighting in China. From the forward, I want to say the original memoirs were written not too long after the end of the war, because Mori managed to survive it all. It's a great read if you're interested in this kind of thing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Boggit on June 13, 2016, 07:06:44 PM
It sounds good. O0 I remember reading Letters from Iwo Jima a few years back, after I'd seen the film. It was very different to the film, but very insightful as to what was going on in the minds of the defenders.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 13, 2016, 07:29:30 PM
You know, Boggit, it somewhat troubled me, actually. Here I was reading with rapt attention the account of a man that piloted a B5N Kate torpedo bomber across Pearl Harbor, and maneuvered to put his fish into the side of the California. If I read her after-action report (https://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/USN/ships/logs/BB/bb44-Pearl.html) correctly, she took several torpedoes, but from Mori's account it sounds as if he was the first one to do it. There was a total of 53 dead, 64 wounded, and 45 missing. Considering she had a compliment of nearly 1,100 officers and men, it seems the old battleship got off lightly. But the fact was, I was basically reading the account of a man that was part of a heinous and devious sneak attack and was party to the murder of several thousand Americans.

I rarely have moments like that in the histories I read, or the games I play. Hell, I think this was the first time it really got to me.

In any case, I continued reading it, as like you said, so many accounts from the front-line soldier's/pilot's/sailor's point of view are heavily on the Allied side, and there's so few memoirs of Japanese doing something similar.

Last night I just got to the part where he participated in the Battle of Midway. He talked about how they hardly slept, got up while it was still pitch black, flew off the Soryu, and bombed Midway. Then, how they returned, went to their ready room while their planes were made ready again in the decks below, had a snack, and then BOOM, the Soryu was nailed.

He described their ordeal as there was a mad scramble to get out on the deck, how they were saved at the last minute from a rushing wall of fire by a strong wind, how the great carrier was under power for some time but then went dead in the water when one of her boilers blew, and how he jumped 60' into water to get away. The destroyer Makigumo picked Mori and many other survivors up.

The book mentions, too (interestingly enough) that the Makigumo also picked up Ensign Frank W. O'Flaherty and his radioman/gunner, AMM 1/c Bruno P. Gaido. The author shows a picture of the Makigumo, and as an aside, mentions how these two U.S. airmen were picked up, interrogated, then marched up on deck, where the crew tied fuel drums around their ankles and dropped them into the water.

Now, I've read plenty of things on Japanese atrocities in World War II, and it's all stunningly terrible, but this particular mention (which I'd heard of briefly before) is absolutely terrifying. I can't imagine what went through those poor guys' minds when that destroyer crew did that to them. Mori doesn't mention anything about witnessing it - I think this may have happened long after Mori and his fellow Soryu crew members were transfered off. While sickening to even contemplate, it made me realize just how brutally honest Mori was being in even describing something like that, not trying to brush it off. "Oh, by the way, here's something really f*cking awful that happened on that same destroyer..."

In any event, this is a very stirring read so far. I'm still not sure I'm entirely comfortable, but my comfort doesn't change the facts of what happened of course. And, admittedly, it's a fascinating glimpse into their lives at the time, and mindset.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 13, 2016, 09:25:50 PM
It's easy to forget that a lot of the events we read about deal with an overwhelming amount of death. It becomes abstracted after a while, especially if you've been reading military history for decades.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 18, 2016, 04:15:49 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 06, 2016, 06:18:55 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 06, 2016, 12:25:04 PM
I just started reading Of Dice and Men: The Story of Dungeons & Dragons and The People Who Play It by David M. Ewalt.
Be interested in your impressions when done, Greybriar.

Martok put it quite well when he posted:

Quote from: Martok on June 10, 2016, 08:49:33 AM
If you enjoy it even half as much as I did, Greybriar, it'll have been time well-spent.  The book has lot of fascinating information on the history of D&D, as well as being a love-letter to the game (along with RPG's and wargaming in general).

I read Of Dice and Men because the game that got me started on PC gaming was Pool of Radiance (http://www.mobygames.com/game/dos/pool-of-radiance), an Advanced Dungeons & Dragons game and I wanted to know more about Dungeons & Dragons. Of Dice and Men was very informative. I learned all about D & D, how it was played, its history, and the people behind it. I recommend Of Dice and Men to all gamers who are--like me--curious about the subject.

I was also pleasantly surprised to learn that Dungeons & Dragons originated in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. I've even been there, but the next time I am there I will see the town through a gamer's eyes instead of just a tourist's.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 19, 2016, 11:37:21 AM
Just started Empires of the Sea: The Siege of Malta, the Battle of Lepanto, and the Contest for the Center of the World by Roger Crowley.

Also, The Lost World by Michael Crichton.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2016, 12:53:54 PM
Roger Crowley is one my favorite writers! I am just about to start Conquerors: How Portugal Forged the First Global Empire. Good summer reading for types like us.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 19, 2016, 12:55:02 PM
This is the first of his books I've read. I suspect it will not be the last.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2016, 01:07:51 PM
I've read most of them, except 1453. That's probably his best selling of all his titles. I'll get to it eventually. I really enjoyed the one you're about to start and his work on Venice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 19, 2016, 01:15:31 PM
My gaming group is planning to do some Renaissance era naval gaming, so I am looking to read up on the period. Crowley's name came up at our last session. I'll likely read his Venice book next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2016, 01:34:42 PM
If you like pina coladas, getting caught in the rain and galleys with 200 sets of oars...Crowley is your man.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 19, 2016, 01:59:48 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 19, 2016, 01:34:42 PM
If you like pina coladas, getting caught in the rain and galleys with 200 sets of oars...Crowley is your man.

You know I like all those things.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2016, 09:18:10 PM
Stop wasting time, take Crowley to bed or lose me forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 19, 2016, 09:35:31 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 19, 2016, 11:37:21 AM
Just started Empires of the Sea: The Siege of Malta, the Battle of Lepanto, and the Contest for the Center of the World by Roger Crowley.


Empires of the Sea is one of my favorite read, but I listened to it by audiobook so maybe that made a difference. Loved 1453 as well and also enjoyed City of Fortune, though not as much.

Quote from: Gusington on June 19, 2016, 12:53:54 PM
Roger Crowley is one my favorite writers! I am just about to start Conquerors: How Portugal Forged the First Global Empire. Good summer reading for types like us.

Going to need to pick this one up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 20, 2016, 06:39:57 AM
Just finished The Rising Sun by John Toland. Excellent book. Now I'm about to start Redcoats and Rebels: The American Revolution Through British Eyes by Christopher Hibbert.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 20, 2016, 07:55:50 AM
See now don't just take my word for it...if AR likes it, it has to be legit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 20, 2016, 09:18:15 AM
After reading Of Dice and Men, I thought I would continue in a similar vein by reading Ready Player One by Ernest Kline.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 20, 2016, 03:29:01 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 20, 2016, 09:18:15 AM
After reading Of Dice and Men, I thought I would continue in a similar vein by reading Ready Player One by Ernest Kline.

It's a great read.  Although, iirc, you probably have close to 20 years on me, so, all of the obvious 80's nerd cultural references may not resonate with you.  If they do, more power to you and I say enjoy either way  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 25, 2016, 12:32:13 PM
I'm 40 pages into Conquerors by Crowley and I am not disappointed. He is a gifted writer. Definitely read it if you love Renaissance history and the history of discovery & exploration.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 25, 2016, 08:48:11 PM
I finished The Miraculous Torpedo Squadron. It was a great read, ultimately. However, it ended rather unceremoniously; he flew off the Junyo after Midway, and had his hand shot off in a raid against Henderson Field. He described ditching (I think this was his third time having to ditch his torpedo bomber) with just the one hand (his left; he was right-handed, and that's the one he lost), and the weeks that followed in the Guadalcanal jungles. Ultimately on his return, he described how he decided to leave the IJN, despite numerous peers suggesting he not do so. I found that part a little hard to believe; I can't imagine he would just be let go, even with a missing hand, as he could easily have been tapped as an instructor or some other position. But I guess the IJN could have let men with newfound, permanent disabilities be discharged. However, he talked all too briefly about how he was re-drafted in mid-44 as an instructor out of a base near Tokyo, and that's about where it ended. The translator elaborated a bit, saying how that field was used for a lot of Kamikaze raids. Could have been that Mori found it way too distasteful to describe, or perhaps the time he was there and the firebombing of Tokyo was too much to bear. I had, honestly, really hoped to read his FULL memoirs, his insights, not just from 'the good years' but also from the bad ones. It would have truly been a very unique insight into the mind of a Japanese naval officer as things started turning to shite in the later war years. In any case, I recommend it.

Now I've started to read the first book in the Honor Harrington series. I admit total ignorance of this, despite having heard an interview with the guys that ran HonorCon. For one, I didn't know Honor was a woman. Not that THAT is a big deal - certainly not - I'm just saying how totally in the dark I am with this book, going into it. So far it's a great read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 29, 2016, 11:52:38 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 25, 2016, 12:32:13 PM
I'm 40 pages into Conquerors by Crowley and I am not disappointed. He is a gifted writer. Definitely read it if you love Renaissance history and the history of discovery & exploration.

Next on my list!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 29, 2016, 02:41:50 PM
AR if you have time I can hand my copy off to you in a few weeks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 29, 2016, 03:00:35 PM
Quote from: bbmike on June 20, 2016, 06:39:57 AM
Just finished The Rising Sun by John Toland. Excellent book.

A classic. I need to re-read it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 03, 2016, 08:09:23 AM
Just finish One Second After.  If you want a book that will keep you awake at night with nightmares as to how fragile the US infrastructure is, this is the book. 

Getting ready to start the next book in the series, One Year After. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 05, 2016, 10:08:23 AM
I read One Second After a few months back, I enjoyed it. One Year After is in my queue.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on July 08, 2016, 07:28:30 PM
Reading an oldie but a goodie, The Complete Hammer's Slammers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 10, 2016, 01:31:39 PM
Just finished Empires of the Sea by Roger Crowley. Now starting City of Fortune.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on July 10, 2016, 03:08:24 PM
I'm about 120 pages into Robert K. Massie's Peter the Great: His Life and World. So far, it's very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on July 10, 2016, 03:33:28 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on July 10, 2016, 03:08:24 PM
I'm about 120 pages into Robert K. Massie's Peter the Great: His Life and World. So far, it's very good.

One of my favorite books of all time. I read it when I was living in Russia and then again later, and some of Massie's notes on how things haven't really changed all that much from the 1600's are spot on and hilarious.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on July 10, 2016, 03:34:24 PM
Quote from: mirth on July 10, 2016, 01:31:39 PM
Just finished Empires of the Sea by Roger Crowley. Now starting City of Fortune.

Empires of the Sea is by far my favorite Crowley book. Really enjoyed 1453 as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 10, 2016, 03:37:59 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on July 10, 2016, 03:34:24 PM
Quote from: mirth on July 10, 2016, 01:31:39 PM
Just finished Empires of the Sea by Roger Crowley. Now starting City of Fortune.

Empires of the Sea is by far my favorite Crowley book. Really enjoyed 1453 as well.

I loved it. Very well written, incredibly readable. The little details were fantastic. I'm looking forward to reading all of his work.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2016, 05:27:09 PM
Conquerors was good but not his best. Read it if you're a Crowley fan.

Started Book 2 of the Warrior of Rome [King of Kings] series by Harry Sidebottom yesterday and already read 100 pages of it, which is very fast for me. Books 1-3 are set in the Roman East (vs. the Sassanids) in the 3rd century, Books 4-6 are set in other theaters. Great books and Sidebottom is a great writer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 10, 2016, 06:47:26 PM
I read Empires of the Sea in a few weeks. Granted it's only about 300 pages, but that's fast for me and a history book. I tend to savor and reread a lot. I devoured Empires. One of the best books I've read in the past five years.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2016, 08:11:33 PM
You'll like Conquerors then. Sounds like you read at about the same pace I do.

If you like late Roman history try Sidebottom!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 10, 2016, 10:09:55 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 10, 2016, 08:11:33 PMtry Sidebottom!

Oh, I've tried side bottom.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on July 11, 2016, 05:56:24 AM
Quote from: mirth on July 10, 2016, 10:09:55 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 10, 2016, 08:11:33 PMtry Sidebottom!

Oh, I've tried side bottom.

Wasn't Side Bottom the original title for Star Trek V?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 11, 2016, 10:04:10 AM
Clouds of Glory: The Life and Legend of Robert E. Lee by Michael Korda. At 700+ pages, that should keep me busy enough that I don't need to worry about getting any 'Side-Bottom'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 11, 2016, 05:16:38 PM
You want Sidebottom. You need it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 11, 2016, 10:12:02 PM
At my age it's tough for me to handle 'side' much less 'bottom'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on July 12, 2016, 03:33:59 AM
For some of us it's difficult to find where "side" starts and "bottom" ends
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 12, 2016, 06:24:03 PM
Read the damned books and eat your damned oatmeal, all of you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 12, 2016, 06:26:56 PM
But Mom, I'm afraid I'll get oatmeal on my Sidebottom.  :-[
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 12, 2016, 06:45:29 PM
Way too late for that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 13, 2016, 03:18:43 AM
Just finished The Conquering Tide by Ian Toll.  I found it a little too triumphalist in tone and not nearly as informative as The Rising Sun by John Tolland.

I'm taking a break and reading some light fiction now.  Just started Into the Storm by Larry Correia.  Reads like a novel based on the Dishonored PC game.

After I finish this, I'm going to start The Secret War: Spies, Ciphers, and Guerrillas 1939-1945 by Max Hastings.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 13, 2016, 05:18:37 PM
Into the Storm you say?

*runs to Amazon*
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 18, 2016, 08:44:13 PM
I just started reading The Shining by Stephen King.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 18, 2016, 08:44:55 PM
^YES
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 19, 2016, 05:38:27 AM
Much better than the Kubrick film -- it has its moments as its own film, but they changed way too much to make Jack an obvious bad threat instead of a good father with some serious problems.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 19, 2016, 05:46:12 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on July 19, 2016, 05:38:27 AM
Much better than the Kubrick film -- it has its moments as its own film, but they changed way too much to make Jack an obvious bad threat instead of a good father with some serious problems.

How was the remake (with that guy from "wings' as Jack)? Did it bring more focus to the Overlook's malevolence as an entity in itself?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2016, 07:14:09 AM
It was crap. But I absolutely kove the book and the film so I am biased.

Anyone read Dr. Sleep, King's sequel to the Shining?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on July 19, 2016, 07:45:10 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on July 19, 2016, 05:46:12 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on July 19, 2016, 05:38:27 AM
Much better than the Kubrick film -- it has its moments as its own film, but they changed way too much to make Jack an obvious bad threat instead of a good father with some serious problems.

How was the remake (with that guy from "wings' as Jack)? Did it bring more focus to the Overlook's malevolence as an entity in itself?

I thought this remake was much better because it was very close to the book. Like you say it brought to the fore the overriding malevolence of the Overlook.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on July 19, 2016, 07:49:29 AM
If fact even Stephen King didn't like Kubrick's Shinning movie very much...

http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Stephen-King-Biggest-Problem-With-Stanley-Kubrick-Version-Shining-110157.html

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 19, 2016, 10:40:15 AM
Just started, "The Struggle for Sea Power-- A Naval History of the American Revolution" by Sam Willis. Great read so far. And it's got 1st. class maps.  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 19, 2016, 11:02:07 AM
Agreed that the TV movie was better generally than the Kubrick film as an adaptation of the book. Artistic and production quality wasn't up to Kubrick's level naturally, but I liked it a lot better. I'd rather watch it over Kubrick's film any day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 19, 2016, 01:51:13 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 19, 2016, 07:14:09 AM
It was crap.

+12
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2016, 06:11:43 PM
Kubrick's Shining was not at all like the book but I think it stands on its own as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, horror movie ever made. The music alone will make viewers crap themselves.

King did not like the movie because it was so different from his book. Which is totally understandable...I love the book too. But the movie is awesome on its own.

The Shining, The Exorcist and believe it or not The Witch (from this year) are probably my top 3 all time horror movies that I will watch at least twice a year until I die.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on July 19, 2016, 06:50:41 PM
Would you be at all interested in the new It?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 19, 2016, 07:16:01 PM
Quote from: undercovergeek on July 19, 2016, 06:50:41 PM
Would you be at all interested in the new It?

When will this madness stop!?! There have to be thousands of great new scripts out there begging to be turned into movies but all the studios can think to do is recycle old movies and TV shows.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 19, 2016, 07:57:17 PM
A lot of those new scripts end up in development hell. New writers tend to agree to chump change and then studios that are interested snatch them up and sit on them for eternity, if anything to keep other studios from getting to it.

It sounds ridiculous, but that's Hollywood. Development Hell is a special ring below all nine circles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2016, 08:40:57 PM
I read the old It 20+ years ago and found it really disturbing. I also got about 9 pages in to the Dark Half and couldn't go any further. The next Stephen King I want to read is Salem's Lot. Never seen that movie either but the trailer and poster were enough to make me soil my drawers 30+ years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on July 19, 2016, 09:24:52 PM
Salem's Lot is a really good one. (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fgrogheads.com%2Fforums%2FSmileys%2F%2FBrantz%2520Smilies%2Fafro.gif&hash=039e95bd4a616abd34cdb9e7b01bb25caa5523c6)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 19, 2016, 09:43:54 PM
And just in time to make the studio re-make list is..... Ben Hur. Due next month I believe. Soon to be followed by a trans-gender version, Been Her-But A Him Now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 19, 2016, 09:53:57 PM
Finished One Year After.  Good short read.  Now waiting for January for the next book in the series, The Final Day.

Did start Pillar in the Sky.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 20, 2016, 06:32:23 AM
I'm only 30% through the Honor Harrington book, On Basilisk Station. It's a great read. I wish I had more time to get through it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 20, 2016, 09:00:22 AM
OJ was One Year as good as the first book in the series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 20, 2016, 09:26:48 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 20, 2016, 06:32:23 AM
I'm only 30% through the Honor Harrington book, On Basilisk Station. It's a great read. I wish I had more time to get through it.

That is a great book. I need to read more in the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 20, 2016, 08:58:56 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 20, 2016, 09:00:22 AM
OJ was One Year as good as the first book in the series?

Yes, I think it is.  It starts one year after the end of One Second After.  The period covered is only 45 days.  We find the Black Mountain is very much on it's own still.  In fact, most of the country still seems to be very much on it's own.  I don't want to give any more away, but would encourage you to give it a read. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 21, 2016, 07:22:05 AM
Thanks man
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 22, 2016, 09:47:11 PM
King of Kings was superb. Got the third book in the series on its way, Lion of the Sun.

In the meantime I am about to start Shadows in the Desert - Ancient Persia at War by Dr. Kaveh Farrokh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 23, 2016, 11:34:03 PM
I finished reading The Shining this afternoon and watched Kubrick's movie of the same name this evening.

Quote from: JasonPratt on July 19, 2016, 05:38:27 AM
Much better than the Kubrick film -- it has its moments as its own film, but they changed way too much to make Jack an obvious bad threat instead of a good father with some serious problems.

I agree. The movie didn't hold a candle to the book; I've watched B movies from the 50s that were better than it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 24, 2016, 11:04:30 AM
Watch the movie on its own.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 24, 2016, 02:52:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 24, 2016, 11:04:30 AM
Watch the movie on its own.

Sorry, Gus. I just don't believe the movie is as good as many other horror flcks I've watched in the past. Or are the newer horror movies not meant to scare the bejesus out of you like the ones in the old days?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 24, 2016, 08:35:58 PM
Are you watching the Shining from 1980 or some lame TV movie version? Kubrick's, while absolutely different from the book, is widely cited as one of the most frightening movies of all time. There are still scenes in it, at 42 years old, that are almost impossible for me to watch...like the Old Woman in the Bathtub Scene(tm).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 25, 2016, 12:37:11 AM
Kubrick's. It rated a 61 Metascore from Metacritic (http://www.metacritic.com/movie/the-shining), so apparently some reviewers were about as impressed with it as I was.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 25, 2016, 07:52:18 AM
I'm generally unimpressed with Kubrick's pretensiousness anyway. (Unimpressed enough to not even double-check how to spell that word!  ::) :P )

No doubt he had talent. Artistically daring? Sure. But the Shining is the only film of his I've ever watched all the way through more than once (yes, including 2001), and that's maybe only 3 times. After each time of which I'd say to myself, "Man I'll never waste my time watching this thing again, ugh!" Eventually, 20 years ago or so, that stuck.  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 08:43:06 AM
Fine. It's still tied with The Exorcist as my top horror film of all time. The Witch rounds out my top 3.

Pratt are you telling me you can't watch Full Metal Jacket or Paths of Glory??? Come on. Two classic war movies there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 25, 2016, 08:57:01 AM
Haven't even tried Paths to Glory, to be fair; can't watch FMJ.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 25, 2016, 10:05:07 AM
The Old Woman in the bathtub scene was scary for a Old Woman type reason. It'd been more scary if she had pulled Jack in with her. Where's that Vomit Emote? The first Nightmare on Elm Street movie scared the shit outta me when I first saw it late at night on HBO. I still like to watch it to see Johnny Depp get hacked-up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 25, 2016, 10:34:30 AM
I'm still working my way though The Secret War: Spies, Ciphers, and Guerillas.  I'm also slogging through The Bombing War: Europe 1939-1945 by Richard Overy.  It's a massive book.  The opening chapters that detail the philosophies and assumptions made by each nation and how this led to differing air warfare strategies was quite good.  Some of the later chapters covering the actual war aren't as good as they don't go into the sort of depth I was hoping for.  The chapters on the Battle of Britain and the USAAF and RAF campaigns don't reveal anything new.  However, the chapters on the Eastern Front are fascinating as much of the information presented in the book is based on newly declassified Soviet documents. 

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61Y-r%2BIY3zL._SY498_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51jMzxNfK4L._SX323_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)




Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 07:45:53 PM
I have never seen an of the Nightmare on Elm Street movies.

CAN'T WATCH FMJ??? WHAT WHAT WHAT
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 25, 2016, 07:47:02 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 07:45:53 PM
I have never seen an of the Nightmare on Elm Street movies.


Assuming you're not kidding, you and MD could have a heck of a slumber party.  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 25, 2016, 07:49:06 PM
I've seen most of the Nightmare On Elm Street movies.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 25, 2016, 07:49:58 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 25, 2016, 07:49:06 PM
I've seen most of the Nightmare On Elm Street movies.

But oh so many that you have not seen...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 25, 2016, 07:50:20 PM
What the hell did you people do with your childhoods?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 07:51:52 PM
I understand the shock at my Nightmare on Elm Street reveal but please let's focus on Pratt's inability to watch FMJ.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 25, 2016, 07:52:55 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 07:51:52 PM
I understand the shock at my Nightmare on Elm Street reveal but please let's focus on Pratt's inability to watch FMJ.

Good point. WTF?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 07:53:24 PM
YEAH PRATT WTF
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 25, 2016, 07:53:42 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 25, 2016, 07:49:58 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 25, 2016, 07:49:06 PM
I've seen most of the Nightmare On Elm Street movies.

But oh so many that you have not seen...

I just watched Get Shorty and High Fidelity for the first time the other night.  Saw Straight Outta Compton last weekend.  What else do you guys want from me?!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 07:54:00 PM
^Use itals more.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 25, 2016, 09:10:54 PM
I didn't like Get Shorty. But I liked Swordfish. Hell, I liked Last Action Hero and Flash Gordon, so what do I know.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 25, 2016, 09:12:15 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 25, 2016, 09:10:54 PM
....I liked Swordfish. Hell, I liked Last Action Hero....

:o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on July 25, 2016, 09:14:13 PM
Get Shorty sucked, but High Fidelity rocks.

Try UHF next.  ;)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 25, 2016, 09:30:42 PM
I liked Get Shorty
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 25, 2016, 09:54:09 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 25, 2016, 07:45:53 PM
I have never seen an of the Nightmare on Elm Street movies....

Check this out:

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 25, 2016, 10:20:30 PM
FMJ Was ALMOST as scary as Nightmare on Elm Street. At least Ermy was.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 25, 2016, 10:20:49 PM
 :knuppel2:Take it to the movie thread, cretins!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 26, 2016, 08:55:01 AM
That place is too scary.  :-\
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 26, 2016, 10:27:08 AM
YOU WANT SCARY???

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on July 26, 2016, 10:34:38 AM
You couldn't pay me enough to click on that horror.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 26, 2016, 10:49:35 AM
Now I know what I'll face in Hell (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Fpics%2Fvomit.gif&hash=f8c0cec79f834c3558ced52ccf681c80fdf7c2e4)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 26, 2016, 10:54:08 AM
That's going to be the sound in her 'election headquarters' come election night, as she giddily reflects on how much she's managed to manipulate and cheat her way into the Presidency.

F8cking Clintons.  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on July 26, 2016, 11:05:55 AM
Hold on, let me fix that for you:

Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 26, 2016, 10:54:08 AM
That's going to be the sound in her 'election headquarters' come election night, as she giddily reflects on how much she's managed to manipulate and cheat her way into the Presidency.

F8cking Clintons.  (http://www.aarcentral.com\pics\vomit.gif)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 26, 2016, 11:06:15 AM
They should play that at Gitmo to get info from Al Queda. It would make me tell things I don't even know.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 26, 2016, 11:12:16 AM
Quote from: bbmike on July 26, 2016, 11:05:55 AM
Hold on, let me fix that for you:

Quote from: Banzai_Cat on July 26, 2016, 10:54:08 AM
That's going to be the sound in her 'election headquarters' come election night, as she giddily reflects on how much she's managed to manipulate and cheat her way into the Presidency.

F8cking Clintons.  (http://www.aarcentral.com\pics\vomit.gif)

That little emoticon really does make every post better!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 27, 2016, 07:35:58 AM
In order to distract myself from the perverse pleasure I'm feeling in watching reactions to my being unable to watch FMJ, I'm currently finishing catching up on the final two Rusty Wilson Bigfoot Story books I haven't yet read.

...my mental life is a little complicated. Sometimes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 27, 2016, 07:37:22 AM
(But while I'm passing by, I adore the 80s Flash Gordon movie, and kind of like Last Action Hero. Not a lot, but a little.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 27, 2016, 08:18:34 AM
Don't get me wrong...the kid in Last Action Hero was possibly the most annoying child in any 90s-era movie. But the rest of it was pretty awesome. Any movie that absolutely does not take itself seriously is okay in my book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 27, 2016, 09:33:08 AM
I liked both movies too. Maybe ARH-NOLD's best over-the-top performance. And good villians too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 27, 2016, 05:14:12 PM
...

never seen Last Action Hero

...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 27, 2016, 05:42:06 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 27, 2016, 05:14:12 PM
...

never seen Last Action Hero

...

Dude,

You cannot give MD grief for not seeing movies if you've not seen Last Action Hero.

Go and rectify this, now. We'll wait.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 27, 2016, 05:50:23 PM
Don't do it Gus. It's a stinker.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on July 27, 2016, 05:58:17 PM
Quote from: mirth on July 27, 2016, 05:50:23 PM
Don't do it Gus. It's a stinker.

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 27, 2016, 06:28:19 PM
Don't listen to these philistines. They took it way too seriously. Check your brain at the door and you'll enjoy it tremendously.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 27, 2016, 06:48:24 PM
Gus, this is all you need to know about Last Action Hero - the key plot device is a magic movie ticket.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 27, 2016, 06:55:59 PM
Gandalf's in it. Nuff said.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 27, 2016, 07:24:14 PM
I liked the soundtrack well enough when I was in college...and I never give grief to MD over anything. I give Pratt grief for being a weirdo.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 27, 2016, 07:38:59 PM
Gus is good like that.  The REST of you jamokes...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 28, 2016, 09:01:12 AM
Clouds of Glory: The Life and Legend of Robert E. Lee (http://"http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/clouds-of-glory-michael-korda/1117196157") by Michael Korda.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 28, 2016, 09:36:47 AM
Me too.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 28, 2016, 06:55:57 PM
Thanks for recommending it. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 28, 2016, 09:56:43 PM
You're very welcome. Careful though. Lots of Yankee spies around here.  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 29, 2016, 05:55:09 AM
Carpetbaggers, suh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 29, 2016, 07:52:37 AM
Muckrakers and scalawags? My buddies and always thought that sounded like a breakfast cereal. 'Two scoops of scalawags in every box.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 29, 2016, 11:42:07 AM
Quote from: mirth on July 27, 2016, 05:50:23 PM
Don't do it Gus. It's a stinker.

I think I can fairly say it's an acquired taste. My opinion of it bounces around a lot every five minutes, whenever I catch parts of it (I've watched it all the way through at least 3 times -- still bounces around a lot). It doesn't help that I never believe one single thing written for the kid. "Watch out, don't trust him! He killed Mozart!" The writers fail in having me believe that kid ever watched Amadeus.  :crazy2: Heck, I've never watched Amadeus!

Quote from: Sir Slash on July 27, 2016, 06:55:59 PM
Gandalf's in it. Nuff said.

And Gandalf plays Death.

Which isn't as remotely as awesome as that sounds like it should be.

Which is emblematic of the movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 29, 2016, 05:23:27 PM
Hey look what I found.

http://io9.gizmodo.com/all-56-single-stephen-king-movies-and-tv-series-adaptat-1783887752
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 29, 2016, 06:33:29 PM
Damn. Does that guy ever take a vacation? Oh, wait. He did and wrote a book while doing it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on August 05, 2016, 02:58:01 PM
Just finished Pillar in the Sky.  It was ok.  I was expecting a lot more.  The story is about building a space elevator.  Unfortunately, it is all from the perspective of just a couple of people, all working on the project.  It would have been better if there were perspectives taken from those opposing the project. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 06, 2016, 09:47:46 AM
I finished Monster Hunter Memoirs: Grunge less than 12 hours after I got it.  Very hard to put down.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 14, 2016, 06:12:46 PM
Picked up used, good condition copy of Massie's Dreadnought yesterday for $4. Such an epic book.

Also recently started The Generals - https://www.amazon.com/Generals-American-Military-Command-World/dp/0143124099 (https://www.amazon.com/Generals-American-Military-Command-World/dp/0143124099)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 15, 2016, 05:40:00 AM
I'm at about 86% with On Basilisk Station. The first 3/4 of the book is build up to the actual action, which you can see coming a mile away. However, it builds such anticipation up in me that I'm almost on the edge of my seat when reading it. I wish I had more time than to read just a few pages here and there, but it's damn good.

The only thing that I didn't like was the author just starting the Big Chase between the Fearless and the Sirius, and then goes into a multi-page, detailed description of the history of FTL travel. Not that the discussion didn't dovetail nicely into the actual action going on, and props to him for not just vomiting all of this out within the first 20 pages or so, but dammit, it was like breaking to commercial RIGHT at the good part.  ;D

Plus it was pretty boring. Authors that do that turn me off, but I'll keep going with this. The author of Snow Crash ruined the book when he started on and on and on with a religious discussion the protagonist (literally, Protagonist) had with some AI librarian. It might be central to that book, but I tolerated it for about a dozen pages before I moved on to something else.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on August 15, 2016, 11:03:47 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 15, 2016, 05:40:00 AM
I'm at about 86% with On Basilisk Station. The first 3/4 of the book is build up to the actual action, which you can see coming a mile away. However, it builds such anticipation up in me that I'm almost on the edge of my seat when reading it. I wish I had more time than to read just a few pages here and there, but it's damn good.

The only thing that I didn't like was the author just starting the Big Chase between the Fearless and the Sirius, and then goes into a multi-page, detailed description of the history of FTL travel. Not that the discussion didn't dovetail nicely into the actual action going on, and props to him for not just vomiting all of this out within the first 20 pages or so, but dammit, it was like breaking to commercial RIGHT at the good part.  ;D

Plus it was pretty boring. Authors that do that turn me off, but I'll keep going with this. The author of Snow Crash ruined the book when he started on and on and on with a religious discussion the protagonist (literally, Protagonist) had with some AI librarian. It might be central to that book, but I tolerated it for about a dozen pages before I moved on to something else.

Glad your liking BC. Just remember.  Keep in mind that Honorverse is in no small part Weber recreating blue water naval warfare in space.  You can think of OBS being at the beginning of WWI. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on August 15, 2016, 03:52:36 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 15, 2016, 05:40:00 AM
I'm at about 86% with On Basilisk Station. The first 3/4 of the book is build up to the actual action, which you can see coming a mile away. However, it builds such anticipation up in me that I'm almost on the edge of my seat when reading it. I wish I had more time than to read just a few pages here and there, but it's damn good.

The only thing that I didn't like was the author just starting the Big Chase between the Fearless and the Sirius, and then goes into a multi-page, detailed description of the history of FTL travel. Not that the discussion didn't dovetail nicely into the actual action going on, and props to him for not just vomiting all of this out within the first 20 pages or so, but dammit, it was like breaking to commercial RIGHT at the good part.  ;D

Plus it was pretty boring. Authors that do that turn me off, but I'll keep going with this. The author of Snow Crash ruined the book when he started on and on and on with a religious discussion the protagonist (literally, Protagonist) had with some AI librarian. It might be central to that book, but I tolerated it for about a dozen pages before I moved on to something else.

Glad you're enjoying it BC. I think the first several books are the best.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: CptHowdy on August 15, 2016, 04:54:31 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on August 15, 2016, 03:52:36 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 15, 2016, 05:40:00 AM
I'm at about 86% with On Basilisk Station. The first 3/4 of the book is build up to the actual action, which you can see coming a mile away. However, it builds such anticipation up in me that I'm almost on the edge of my seat when reading it. I wish I had more time than to read just a few pages here and there, but it's damn good.

The only thing that I didn't like was the author just starting the Big Chase between the Fearless and the Sirius, and then goes into a multi-page, detailed description of the history of FTL travel. Not that the discussion didn't dovetail nicely into the actual action going on, and props to him for not just vomiting all of this out within the first 20 pages or so, but dammit, it was like breaking to commercial RIGHT at the good part.  ;D

Plus it was pretty boring. Authors that do that turn me off, but I'll keep going with this. The author of Snow Crash ruined the book when he started on and on and on with a religious discussion the protagonist (literally, Protagonist) had with some AI librarian. It might be central to that book, but I tolerated it for about a dozen pages before I moved on to something else.

Glad you're enjoying it BC. I think the first several books are the best.

read em all up until she got involved with the much older guy and she moved into the political arena. the series definitely has some intense fight sequences.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 17, 2016, 08:03:49 AM
I'm reading Mr. Lincoln's Army by Bruce Catton.

I got it on a $1.99 Kindle ebook deal.  Just got finished reading about Pope getting crushed at 2nd Manassas and McClellan regaining command of the Army of the Potomac.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 17, 2016, 12:59:29 PM
All the Catton books are worth reading, excellent indeed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 18, 2016, 09:48:29 AM
Quote from: bob48 on August 17, 2016, 12:59:29 PM
All the Catton books are worth reading, excellent indeed.

+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 18, 2016, 04:40:02 PM
Hey all -  was just finishing up the first Honor Harrington book and went to Amazon to check out how much Book 2 was for the Kindle...and I see it's free. Book 1 is free too, if anyone's interested. I just grabbed Book 2.

Book One: On Basilisk Station (https://www.amazon.com/Basilisk-Station-Honor-Harrington-Book-ebook/dp/B00ARPJBS0/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1471556192&sr=1-2&keywords=honor+harrington#nav-subnav)

Book Two: The Honor of the Queen (https://www.amazon.com/Honor-Queen-Harrington-Book-ebook/dp/B00BBI9WD6/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1471556192&sr=1-3&keywords=honor+harrington#nav-subnav)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 18, 2016, 04:45:29 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 18, 2016, 04:40:02 PM
Hey all -  was just finishing up the first Honor Harrington book and went to Amazon to check out how much Book 2 was for the Kindle...and I see it's free. Book 1 is free too, if anyone's interested. I just grabbed Book 2.

Book One: On Basilisk Station (https://www.amazon.com/Basilisk-Station-Honor-Harrington-Book-ebook/dp/B00ARPJBS0/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1471556192&sr=1-2&keywords=honor+harrington#nav-subnav)

Book Two: The Honor of the Queen (https://www.amazon.com/Honor-Queen-Harrington-Book-ebook/dp/B00BBI9WD6/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1471556192&sr=1-3&keywords=honor+harrington#nav-subnav)

Sweet! Just grabbed book 2. Thx!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 18, 2016, 04:46:43 PM
Thanks B_C, I just grabbed book 1, but book 2 is not free in the UK atm.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 18, 2016, 04:51:04 PM
Basterds!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 18, 2016, 04:54:10 PM
Indeed so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on August 18, 2016, 04:57:53 PM
Thanks, BC! I grabbed book 2 as I already own book 1 in paperback and audiobook.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on August 21, 2016, 12:55:44 PM
Um, you know you can download most of the Honorverse books for free.  When Storm From Shadows was released, there was a CD that had all of the previous books included on it.  There were other David Weber books on there also, like all four of his Starfire books, the first two 1632 books, ect.  I would also recommend Apocalypse Troll.   

Yes, this is legit.  The link to the site is on David Weber's web site. 

http://baencd.thefifthimperium.com/


This link will give you the order to read all of the stories and books up to Mission of Honor. 

http://www.davidweber.net/downloads/30-honorverse-timeline-3.html
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 22, 2016, 05:25:49 PM
Just began an oddball book I found on Amazon a while back, War Elephants by John M. Kistler.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 22, 2016, 10:26:49 PM
Is that about the University of Alabama Football team, Gus?  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2016, 01:15:03 AM
Yes! No.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 23, 2016, 06:17:12 AM
I had no idea the Honorverse books were free...thanks for the info, OJ.

I finished Book One but instead of moving on to Book Two, I found something else that caught my attention and was on sale (well, it was reasonable at about five bucks). It's called Hell Divers (https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Divers-Nicholas-Sansbury-Smith-ebook/dp/B01BW6CG1Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1471950343&sr=8-2&keywords=hell+divers+kindle#nav-subnav) and has a ton of 5-star ratings. I'm early in the book but its premise is post-apocalyptic (which I'm generally a sucker for, if it's not old and retreaded). Earth was destroyed in some major war two and a half centuries before the book begins. Back then the U.S. military had invested in these large airships from which to launch their super-weapons; there were about 50 built IIRC. Now, there are two left, and they are home to the only humans left alive (perhaps 1,000 or so, judging from the compliment of the one where the book is set, which has 534 I think, all descendants from the original military crews and their families that escaped just before the war started). These airships are ancient and were never intended to become permanent homes; they wander around the planet looking for a safe piece of land, which they've obviously never found. (Considering it's been about 250 years they've been flying around up there, one's gotta wonder how they've not covered the whole planet by that point, but who knows.) Since they're ancient rigs running on early 21st-century technology, and they don't produce anything like that themselves, and everything is run-down, in disrepair, or is in danger of falling apart, it's a never-ending struggle with them to stay in the air; the planet is far too poisonous in parts, and large electrical storms dominate the atmosphere. This is where the 'Hell Divers' come in - they're men and women that parachute four miles to Earth through the lightning storms, into the radiation areas, to find fuel cells from old plants that used to manufacture the airships as well as other desperately-needed parts and supplies. It's a very interesting premise that I've not heard of before. The writing isn't too bad (I wouldn't gush over it the way some of these people do; the author and editor(s) missed an end quote in one of the character's dialogue which was a little confusing, and I hate finding little mistakes like that when I'm reading because it takes me right out of the story). I'm liking it's uniqueness, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on August 28, 2016, 08:02:00 AM
Just found this.

http://www.pacificamilitary.com/books/f-roadToBigWeek.html

Looks good and the writing is very readable.  Anyone know if this book has any new revelations?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 31, 2016, 08:54:22 AM
Well, in a fit of nostalgia, since I'm having fun with the Shandalar campaign occasionally (and Magic Duels occasionally), I suddenly remembered that MtG used to have novels, so after a little research I've picked up the first 8 or 10 (I don't recall which), written back before Wizards of the Coast decided to go for epic long-running series. But I fully plan to get to those, too (at least as far as the end of the Phyrexian war, maybe also through the next large arc or a little farther, after which the quality largely tanked too much.)

Just finished Arena, the very first Magic: the Gathering novel, written by William R. Forstchen. I'm going into allllll of these with pretty low expectations, and this was a good start, if rather... hmm... not quite grimdark... but close. Grimgrime? The random repetitive cursing got distracting, and I'd bet a Coke that one in five pages either take place in a sewer or might as well. Of course it's a bad situation in a city (entirely set there, with a few scenes outside toward the end), so the super-grimy tone fit the setting enough. Harder core than the Dragonlance novels the original readers (who would have been me if I had cared at the time) would have been coming to the series from.

Back when these novels were released, continuity wasn't a concern because the cards themselves carried no real continuity, or faint wisps at most; which is why I didn't care to ever buy them or even borrow them from friends. Heck, I didn't know it at the time, but the Wheel of Time series was already running and I would have eaten that up like cake! (I got into it a few years later, just after college, when Lord of Chaos, Book 6, came out.)

But I'm feeling old, I guess, and just want something imaginative to chew on in between more serious research reading.

The author did a fair job working out the plot, and I felt emotional (in a good way) about the situations a few times. He didn't always have a handle on juggling the various character-secrets around, though, and especially in the first half (but even occasionally in the second half) there were times when the characters would ignorantly forget what they had just heard or even said themselves a few pages or minutes ago -- of course so-and-so suspects "X", YOU JUST HEARD HIM SAY SO WHY ARE YOU CONNIVING AS THOUGH THAT MIGHT OR MIGHT NOT BE A FACTOR!  :uglystupid2:

Still, he takes a Yojimbo/Fistful of Dollars plot, with a Gladiator structure added in (a few years before the Ridley Scott film as I recall), and manages to improve the basic source material quite far -- and I regard that as no small achievement.

Also, it's fun as a player of the game (especially back with old cards like this) making guesses as to what spells are supposed to be (or seeing them called out straight up), even if the mechanics of the game itself don't translate well to something-like-a-real-life situation and so have to be changed for the scenes to work. I grinned every time someone threw a "fissure", which in the card game destroys a lot of things that a real fissure wouldn't. As in the card game at the time, they're popular among the fighting characters, too! -- and then the author comes up with ways to make a fissure kill a swarm of flying bats for instance.

And it was fun seeing a bunch of core concepts being introduced to readers who might never have played the game, even though I knew the concepts would be changing later as various writers (and the game designers) worked out the milieu better. Often I'd ponder 'when' this was supposed to be happening in relation to the first major plot arc (clearly not later than that): during its multi-thousand year run, or sometime before it (but not too long before)? Well, that's why these books are in a state of semi-canon.

Anyway, more fun to be had soon along this line. Overall glad to have read it, and while I'd give it a 5/10 I'm just doing that to set a relative bar for other MtG books (some of which I've heard are much better, others much worse, although lots of readers seem to rank Arena up pretty high.)

Next up, The Whispering Woods.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 31, 2016, 11:58:11 AM
Currently reading The Generals by Thomas Ricks and Ardennes 1944 by Antony Beevor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 31, 2016, 01:26:36 PM
Ardennes 1944 is an excellent read, as are all the Beevor books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 31, 2016, 01:31:55 PM
Quote from: bob48 on August 31, 2016, 01:26:36 PM
Ardennes 1944 is an excellent read, as are all the Beevor books.

Agreed. Beevor's right up there with Hastings as one of my favorite military historians.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 31, 2016, 06:02:47 PM
I read Arena back when it came out.  I really enjoyed it.  I've liked the few things I've read by Forstchen.  Just not sure why mirth hasn't piped in about his connection.





































;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 31, 2016, 06:20:29 PM
Antony Beevor rocks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 31, 2016, 09:31:23 PM
Beevor's Berlin book is easily my favorite, followed by his Stalingrad book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 01, 2016, 07:45:56 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on August 31, 2016, 06:02:47 PM
I read Arena back when it came out.  I really enjoyed it.  I've liked the few things I've read by Forstchen.  Just not sure why mirth hasn't piped in about his connection.

I try not to acknowledge any connection to you. :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 01, 2016, 03:55:37 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on August 31, 2016, 09:31:23 PM
Beevor's Berlin book is easily my favorite, followed by his Stalingrad book.

Yup - agreed, and also his book on the Spanish Civil War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 01, 2016, 05:44:50 PM
I read his Stalingrad book a while ago and loved it. I have the Berlin book here on my to-read shelf.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 01, 2016, 05:49:23 PM
Anyone read his Crete book?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 01, 2016, 05:52:31 PM
Did that come out before or after Stalingrad?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 01, 2016, 05:54:32 PM
Before. 1991.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 02, 2016, 06:34:14 AM
I didn't know he did a book on Crete, nor on the Spanish Civil War. I'll have to check them out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 02, 2016, 07:30:02 AM
I just purchased the Crete book through Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 02, 2016, 11:28:32 AM
Quote from: mirth on September 01, 2016, 07:45:56 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on August 31, 2016, 06:02:47 PM
I read Arena back when it came out.  I really enjoyed it.  I've liked the few things I've read by Forstchen.  Just not sure why mirth hasn't piped in about his connection.

I try not to acknowledge any connection to you. :P

Someone will have to explain this joke eventually.  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 02, 2016, 12:57:40 PM
If it's what I think it is, it's not much of a joke*. Might as well profess a connection to King as well.



*though what is around here, really
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 02, 2016, 02:48:41 PM
"The Thousand Names" by Django Wexler.  The first in a low fantasy series of four books (I'm actually on book 3 now) complete with muskets, sorcerous goings on, assassins, dark priests, well fleshed out fantasy kingdoms immersed in geo-political and military struggles.....pretty much everything a grog/geek could ask for in a novel. It's much easier reading than "Game of Thrones" (which I love) and the musket era of the novels caused me to fire up Pike and Shot again as I'm reading them  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 02, 2016, 02:50:24 PM
MD was mocking me because I may have mentioned, once or twice, that I knew and gamed with Bill Forstchen some years back. Not quite the same as hanging out with Stephen King, though Forstchen was a character. And anyway, I opted to ignore MD's snark :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 02, 2016, 02:51:41 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 02, 2016, 02:50:24 PM
MD was mocking me because I may have mentioned, once or twice, that I knew and gamed with Bill Fortschen some years back. Not quite the same as hanging out the Stephen King, though Forstchen was a character. And anyway, I opted to ignore MD's snark :P

I liked Fortschen's Rally Cry series. I don't think I read more than the first two or three and they weren't amazing, but enjoyable enough.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 02, 2016, 02:54:55 PM
Several characters from the Rally Cry books are based on people I know. Keane, Malady, Rossignol - those are all friends of Bill's that I knew well back in the day.

And now I'll never hear the end of it from MD.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 02, 2016, 03:00:20 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 02, 2016, 02:54:55 PM
Several characters from the Rally Cry books are based on people I know. Keane, Malady, Rossignol - those are all friends of Bill's that I knew well back in the day.

And now I'll never hear the end of it from MD.

So which one is you? Or is that a secret?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 02, 2016, 03:10:31 PM
I didn't make the cut. Those other guys were his peers. I was just one of the young pups he liked to beat up on in whatever game we happened to be playing. He could be a sneaky bastard.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 02, 2016, 04:16:15 PM
Steelgrave that series sounds awesome. There goes the self control I was trying to instill on myself on Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 02, 2016, 06:11:44 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 02, 2016, 02:54:55 PM
Several characters from the Rally Cry books are based on people I know. Keane, Malady, Rossignol - those are all friends of Bill's that I knew well back in the day.

And now I'll never hear the end of it from MD.

Did someone call me?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on September 02, 2016, 06:41:41 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 02, 2016, 02:50:24 PM
MD was mocking me because I may have mentioned, once or twice, that I knew and gamed with Bill Forstchen some years back. Not quite the same as hanging out with Stephen King, though Forstchen was a character. And anyway, I opted to ignore MD's snark :P

Your my hero.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 02, 2016, 07:20:32 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on September 02, 2016, 06:11:44 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 02, 2016, 02:54:55 PM
Several characters from the Rally Cry books are based on people I know. Keane, Malady, Rossignol - those are all friends of Bill's that I knew well back in the day.

And now I'll never hear the end of it from MD.

Did someone call me?

Bill Forstchen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 02, 2016, 08:51:05 PM
Hey now, the Rally Cry series is easily one of my favorite fiction series, ever.

Admittedly by the fourth and fifth books it was starting to get a little old, but the first three at least are nothing short of epic. They'd make GREAT big-budget movies.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on September 03, 2016, 07:40:52 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on September 02, 2016, 08:51:05 PM
Hey now, the Rally Cry series is easily one of my favorite fiction series, ever.

Admittedly by the fourth and fifth books it was starting to get a little old, but the first three at least are nothing short of epic. They'd make GREAT big-budget movies.

The first four were by far the best.  I would like to seem them each done as a 6 episode TV series.  I think a movie would cut too much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 03, 2016, 09:08:43 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 02, 2016, 04:16:15 PM
Steelgrave that series sounds awesome. There goes the self control I was trying to instill on myself on Amazon.

That's what friends are for, Gus, breaking down your self control and leading you astray. It is a good series though and I think you will enjoy it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 03, 2016, 09:08:07 PM
How far in to the series are you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 03, 2016, 09:31:35 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 03, 2016, 09:08:07 PM
How far in to the series are you?

I'm about a third of the way into book three. The first book was the best but that's not to say there was a letdown afterwards. Book one, "The Thousand Names", had a lot more combat as part of the story; book two "The Shadow Throne", was more focused on the homefront and comparable in some ways to Game of Throne's first season, i.e. political intrigue, etc.... book three, "The Price of Valor",  is so far a mixture of a grand military campaign and political struggle. All three books do a great job of character development, in particular the main characters: the intriguing new regimental commander, Colonel Janus;  the tired Captain Markus, leading the dregs of the Army known as The Colonials in a dusty and hostile land and a private named Winter who has a very interesting secret.  The supernatural aspect of the novels is.....rather unique and very well done...."The Penitent Damned", now there's an RPG class you won't see elsewhere, ha!!! Not typical swords and spells fare to be sure. 

The novels aren't as grand in scope as GoT but you also have fewer characters to keep track of and there is never a time when the story isn't being driven forward. So in that it can be considered superior in execution at least. I'm really enjoying the books, Gus, and I think you will too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 04, 2016, 09:03:54 AM
Sounds excellent
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 04, 2016, 09:21:53 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 04, 2016, 09:03:54 AM
Sounds excellent

Yes it does. I got the first one for kindle. Thanks for the intro to the series Steelie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 04, 2016, 11:39:12 AM
I will work my way towards the first book eventually.

Just started Justinian's Flea - The First Great Plague and the End of the Roman Empire by William Rosen. 15 pages in and it's already fantastic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 04, 2016, 11:54:02 AM
Well, yesterday I finished Whispering Woods, the second book of the original MtG novel series, this time written by Clayton Emery.

Arena was a pretty standard hero-revenge tale, leveled up by means of the Fistful of Roman Gladiators plot (so to speak); this is even more of a stereotypical HERO'S JOURNEY (tm) with a farmboy (or rather woodcutter) from a totally backwater rural town being caught up into an adventure where over time he gains experience and grows as a person until he sets out on an epic task to etc.

However, those plots are popular because when they're done well they work well, and this one has a ton of cleverness to it. For one thing, I was hooked fast by the novel (and eventually the mini-series trilogy I already know is coming) addressing one of the angles I would have liked to see in Arena: what about a story set from the perspective of the creatures who are summoned to fight in these duels? I also would have liked to see a version of Arena's story restructured to play out from the interweaving of non-wizard characters drawn into the plotting and counter-plotting of the various factions; and this book nods in that direction, too, although without the intricate plotting.

Which I don't mean as a criticism of this book: you can't get that kind of factional plotting in this setup, so it isn't like Emery misses an opportunity. (Nor does Fortschen really; he's just concentrating on one main character in the wizards' side of the situation, which makes plenty of sense in a series based on a card game where the players are acting somewhat like those wizards.) But this plot does run straight as a string, thanks to its setup, and some people might find that pedestrian if not boring -- I can't imagine being bored by the book, because there's plenty of hair-raising action (in the same "grimgrey" tone as Arena, though not always quite as grimy)! Enough action that the mortality rate for secondary characters ran surprisingly high! And since there are only two groups of secondary characters, those deaths add a lot more meaning to what's going on. Moreover, since the late teen inexperienced woodcutter can't do magic AT ALL, that adds an exhausting amount of threat to what's going on.

The book does have a couple of weaknesses, mainly in that Emery on rare occasion forgets what his characters have already worked out earlier in the plot and treats the re-development as being new. The most clunky version of this happens when Gull, the woodcutter, realizes X must have done Y, and comes to this realization no less than 3 times (or maybe 2-1/2 times since the second time he's interrupted pretty quickly by a nearly fatal threat) -- based on the same exact two pieces of evidence. Plot-details existed which could have allowed this to be angulated into a good in-story explanation, if the author thought the dramatic revelation really did need to happen 2-or-3 times to Gull, but I don't think that could have avoided some eyerolling by the reader who is more likely to have kept this revelation in mind after the first time!

There are also a few compositional/editing blips, some of which crop up thanks to what I otherwise appreciated: Emery's skill at coming up with fresh descriptions and turns of phrases, which overall I regard as a strong success. It doesn't hurt that the author sounds like he knows what he's talking about on various small living details, whether from research or (based on his bio paragraph) experience.

On the continuity/milieu, I might have been a bit annoyed at how the magic system seems to have changed to a clearly different interpretation of the card-game rules. But since I'm reading this in hindsight of knowing that different authors are taking different first-stabs at translating the action coherently into narrative form (and since the card game mechanics would make nearly no-sense in narrative form anyway), I gave that a big pass. It helped that Emery includes a nice bit of angulation accounting for the difference in-story: a character who has lived around a wizard enough to get an idea of how things work, has also lived around the world long enough in her life to have heard about the city and situation from the previous novel -- and so draws the inference that those wizards just do things differently there! Little things like that can solve a lot of friction problems; plus I liked the continuity nod. (I already know enough from researching the novels to have heard that there will be a more direct continuity nod toward the end of this trilogy.) The world is first called the Domains in this novel (later more formally "Dominaria"), and expanded rather beyond the limited plot view of the first novel, which makes it more epic in some ways (certainly more countryside is traveled) even though not yet as epic in others.

In the larger milieu continuity, again I know that different authors are hashing together a loose continuity in these early novels for a property that in its main form won't be trying to do epic coherent continuity for a while; so I loosely appreciated the start of references (no doubt contemporary with what were the start of loose worldbuilding in the card sets) to the Brother Artificers and what will eventually be the first (and also somewhat second) macro-huge overarching plot. The reference also gives me, from this later perspective, a rough confirmation of the setting in the overall milieu: several thousand years after the Brothers and the fallout from their shenanigans. (Maybe around the time of what will eventually be the "Legends" setting.)

As always, it was fun to see card references go by, some of them simply in colorful swearing -- also for me nostalgic, since my physical deck mostly comes from this early period!

As a quick novel in a popular fantasy property (both books so far have run 300 and 275 pages respectively, in small pages and relatively large font), I haven't been disappointed yet. Onward to the second book in this first trilogy, Shattered Chains.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 04, 2016, 04:05:31 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on September 04, 2016, 09:21:53 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 04, 2016, 09:03:54 AM
Sounds excellent

Yes it does. I got the first one for kindle. Thanks for the intro to the series Steelie.

Half the joy in discovering a good book is sharing    O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 04, 2016, 10:23:40 PM
You're like Mr. Frickin' Rogers...😎
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 05, 2016, 10:10:32 AM
Quote from: Steelgrave on September 02, 2016, 02:48:41 PM
"The Thousand Names" by Django Wexler.  The first in a low fantasy series of four books (I'm actually on book 3 now) complete with muskets, sorcerous goings on, assassins, dark priests, well fleshed out fantasy kingdoms immersed in geo-political and military struggles.....pretty much everything a grog/geek could ask for in a novel. It's much easier reading than "Game of Thrones" (which I love) and the musket era of the novels caused me to fire up Pike and Shot again as I'm reading them  :smitten:

Ordered the Kindle sample. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 05, 2016, 10:15:02 AM
Quote from: bob48 on August 18, 2016, 04:46:43 PM
Thanks B_C, I just grabbed book 1, but book 2 is not free in the UK atm.

Bob - you can get The Honor of the Queen at the baen free library - even in the UK!
http://www.baen.com/the-honor-of-the-queen.html
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 05, 2016, 11:16:21 AM
Before I forget, again, I wanted to call attention to a funny marketing inadvertence on the back of these MtG books so far.

Naturally, the publisher (not originally Wizards of the Coast by the way, who took over publishing later to set the books into true long-form continuity) was instructed by WotC to market the card game in marketing the books. One form this took was offering one or two free "unique" cards for those who purchased any book and sent in the coupon in the back. (Both of Emery's books had theirs cut out; Arena doesn't! -- and I was tempted to snip it and send it in, even though the offer has expired literally a few decades ago nOWWWW I FEEL OLD AGAIN AAAHHH!)

Another form, which I suspect (but don't know) is related to that offer, involves the back cover, where beneath about 1/3 a page of plot description there's a depiction of several cards scattered around flipped face down and two face up.

For the first book, Arena, the cards are "Arena" (a card I think I might own in my collection somewhere) and a black card I didn't recognize. But since one of the cards was "Arena" I figured the second card had some connection to the plot, too.

After finishing Arena, I went back to study that card more closely, and after some squinting I made out the font at the top of the card to read "Sewer of..." some city I couldn't quite decipher. Okay, that made sense: I joked in my review upthread that it seemed like 1 in 5 pages was either set in the city's sewer or might as well be! Being familiar with the tendency to make up foreign/exotic sounding names for places and things on the cards, and not remembering the name of the city anyway, I didn't pursue the matter more closely, but went away satisfied with the cute plot / marketing connection.

Comes the second book, which starts its own separate story, where the connection to Book 1 is just a quick bit of plot-angulation to acknowledge (by what story-trope students now call "lampshade hanging", calling attention to a problematic detail voluntarily) that the wizards of that city and the areas nearby seem to practice magic differently, and that the world of the "Domains" is a vastly larger place than that book's plot suggested, with tons of areas not involved in that story at all. Yep, fine. So out of curiosity, what cards are being presented in the back-cover's marketing tie-in?

... ........ lol! "Arena" and the "Sewers of..." some city card! Wow, the marketing department faceplanted on that one!

Now comes book 3, the second in the current series, and the first thing I do is check the back: there they are again, "Arena" and "Sewers of..."!

Only this time something is different. Something about the sewer card... oh, they left off the whole title!  :o

Now, it happens unexpectedly that the author (Clayton Emery), or possibly his publisher or (more likely than the book's direct publisher) WotC, decided to connect this 2nd book in the "Greensleeves" trilogy back a lot more strongly to Arena, much more quickly than I was expecting, too: the whole second or third chapter hot-patches the first book's plot directly into this story's own ongoing plot!

Huh. So, I guess, in a way the cards on the marketing art in the back do tie in after all? Except no Sewers? -- and only a tangential connection to the Arena now?

The city's name (Etrarsk I think? -- book's in the car at the moment) gets thrown around enough in Book 3 that now I'm wondering if I did see it before in the first book and just forgot it because there were so many exotic place names that it didn't mean anything. (A common fantasy-author problem, one that's hard to work around as I know from experience.) So, huh... why didn't they print that name on the "Sewers" card on the back cover? Was it something else and they now knew they'd have to change it, but the name hadn't been decided on when the cover went to printing (not impossible considering production schedules) and so they just left off the card-title altogether rather than change it?

That led me to look back to Book 2's back cover, to see what the city's name had been.

...

......

OMG, now that I care enough to squint to clarify the name, I can see: it's "Sewers of Cityname"!

I'm not joking! -- I even went back to the first book's back cover, and it's the same thing! "Sewers of Cityname"!

I hadn't even noticed! I was so used to the name being an exotic non-meaning (to me) that my mind just parsed the city's name as an exotic meaningless name, and I never even noticed the name is the most generic possible placeholder graphic!

:2funny: :2funny: :2funny:

Whoever designed that back cover, that was pretty dang clever as a desperate trick to get past a production snafu! I bow in your general direction, wherever you are and whoever.


Edited to add: "Estark" is the name of the city; and indeed there was a production card named "Sewers of Estark" -- but not named that on the back of those books.  :2funny: It's a powerful, but still legal, card, too! It makes any target attacking creature unblockable this turn, or prevents all damage to a blocking creature regardless of how many creatures it's blocking.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 05, 2016, 03:52:38 PM
Quote from: airboy on September 05, 2016, 10:15:02 AM
Quote from: bob48 on August 18, 2016, 04:46:43 PM
Thanks B_C, I just grabbed book 1, but book 2 is not free in the UK atm.

Bob - you can get The Honor of the Queen at the baen free library - even in the UK!
http://www.baen.com/the-honor-of-the-queen.html

Yup, thank you - I did get it and now I'm hooked. I've actually finished them and just started on book 3.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on September 05, 2016, 10:12:47 PM
I'm currently in the second book of the First Law series by Joe Abercrombie. This is now up there with the Black Company books as my favourite fantasy series. The characters in this series are just brilliant, Inquisitor Glokta has to be one of the best characters in a fantasy series ever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 06, 2016, 07:57:56 PM
Black Company rules!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 06, 2016, 08:04:34 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on September 05, 2016, 10:12:47 PM
I'm currently in the second book of the First Law series by Joe Abercrombie. This is now up there with the Black Company books as my favourite fantasy series. The characters in this series are just brilliant, Inquisitor Glokta has to be one of the best characters in a fantasy series ever.

I love how Abercrombie manages to give even Glokta a sympathetic background and how he fleshes out each and every character he writes. None of his character's just suddenly appear in his novels as who they are, each has a history that contributes to who they become. Great series!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 06, 2016, 09:49:40 PM
I've finished several books in Eric Flint's 1632 world:
1636: The Cardinal Virtues - Which was excellent
1635: The Papal Stakes - Which was excellent
I reread parts of Ring of Fire and Grantville Gazette 1.

also:
1636: The Chronicles of Dr. Gribbleflotz  - which was bad enough I wrote a negative review:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/RULXZEJ4GY0AO/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_viewpnt?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B01II4MSZE#RULXZEJ4GY0AO
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on September 11, 2016, 10:03:20 AM
Finally finished Robert K. Massie's "Peter the Great: His Life and World". What a book! I learned so much about Peter and Russia for that time. Very much recommend it.

Next up is V.M. Yeates' "Winged Victory". After playing Rise of Flight quite a bit lately, I want to read this book and switch to a bit of fiction for a change after Massie's book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2016, 02:39:00 PM
I Love loved loved Peter the Great 😎

Never read a Massie book I didn't love, actually.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 11, 2016, 02:54:23 PM
Swords and Deviltry by Fritz Leiber is $1.99 on US Kindle today.
https://www.amazon.com/Swords-Deviltry-Fafhrd-Gray-Mouser-ebook/dp/B00J90EZIA?_bbid=2281071&tag=bookbubemailc-20#nav-subnav

This is a Farfred and the Gray Mouser collection including "Ill met in Lankmahr"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on September 11, 2016, 03:05:43 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 11, 2016, 02:39:00 PM
I Love loved loved Peter the Great 😎

Never read a Massie book I didn't love, actually.
Agree!

Massie's Catherine the Great book is my "to buy" list too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2016, 03:17:56 PM
I have to read that one. Dreadnought is one of my favorite books of all time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 11, 2016, 03:30:32 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 11, 2016, 03:17:56 PM
Dreadnought is one of my favorite books of all time.

+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2016, 07:21:32 PM
Speaking of great books, Justinian's Flea is one of the best books I have ever read on anything. Most of you guys would love it. Took me a week to finish, which is really fast for me.

And now, in honor of beginning The Witcher 3, I am about to crack open The World of the Witcher, recommended by BBoyer:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/1616554827/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on September 12, 2016, 05:49:51 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 11, 2016, 03:30:32 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 11, 2016, 03:17:56 PM
Dreadnought is one of my favorite books of all time.

+1

Castles of Steel for me. I've Read Peter th Great more than once too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2016, 06:55:34 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on September 12, 2016, 05:49:51 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 11, 2016, 03:30:32 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 11, 2016, 03:17:56 PM
Dreadnought is one of my favorite books of all time.

+1

Castles of Steel for me. I've Read Peter th Great more than once too.

All of Massie's stuff is gold.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 12, 2016, 06:58:47 PM
I've had a copy of Castles of Steel lurking behind me for years. I really have to get to it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on September 12, 2016, 08:50:05 PM
Have been playing some CMNAO lately so this weekend started on Red Storm Rising for the umpteenth time. I actually wore out my first copy and had to buy a second. Fortunately found a copy at Friends of the Library sale. Retibution by Max Hastings is up next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 15, 2016, 06:04:58 AM
Finally finished Shattered Chains yesterday -- I just read a lot slower nowadays because I'm old.  :buck2: The books are only 300 pages of relatively large font small paperbacks, after all.

Quality of this third book in the original Magic: the Gathering series remains up to par, although I noticed the author, Clayton Emery, dialed waaaaaaayyyy back on the interesting alt-English terms and turns of phrasing this time. Too bad, I thought that gave the previous book some nice extra flavor. The reduction isn't really a negative, just less of a positive, though.

As I noted upthread, I was surprised at how quickly and how strongly CE brought back and integrated the plot of Book 1 (Arena, which is really its own story). By the end of this book, though, I felt like maybe this had been mandated by Wizards of the Coast (the property owners) or maybe HarperCollins (the publishers), because while a certain character thus factors strongly here in Book 3, the character (trying to avoid spoilers) spends most of the book quite divorced from the plot of Book 1. Still, any continuity building is appreciated.

The grim-greyness (as I coined the term) of the series so far has also dropped back a touch, although that may just be a random flux. Still a high casualty rate in the hero team along the way!

The concept of the new story (this book being actually the second in an ongoing trilogy, with Book 1 effectively being an independent prequel) continues to lend itself well to small-unit tactics and strategy management, as the main characters chew on how to make their new little "army" work most efficiently. This warms the cockles of my little groggy heart.  :smitten:

As a fan of the card game, I was pleased to see the new first expansion (at the time of the book's release) being integrated into the storyline in a fashion that wasn't janky: the first action scene out of the gate (and these books start off running so far) features an enemy wizard who comes from a background where she uses Arabian Nights spells! I'm pretty sure the all-important next expansion set, "Antiquities", got repeatedly referenced yet along the way, too, with the author working in more references to the Brothers' War, Phyrexia (the Hell for Artifacts) and its denizens, and those who tried to oppose both dangers.

I wasn't entirely a fan of how the only way the protagonist team has even the slightest chance of accomplishing their goals, involves them having stumbled (in the previous book) into a hunt for the Most Powerful Artifact Ever Which Just So Happens To Have Been Built To Do What They Want To Do Although No One Knows That Until This Book.  ::) :P That just seems like too much of a convenient plot gift, which no amount of handwaving generalities about "the gods" or "fate" can make seem more plausible since there is literally nothing in the books so far to suggest that there's a "fate", or any "gods" that would care about setting this up to happen -- much the contrary, actually, because the "gods" of the milieu (so far) are just elevated wizards who can now travel between planes!

I did however appreciate that this (quite literal) Plot Device doesn't end up working as well as the protags were hoping, and the final chapters of the book reveal that if anything their use of it will be directly backfiring on them! The author also brings out some of the ethical problems in using the thing at all.

Anyway, my low entry expectations for enjoying the series, continue to be strongly exceeded. Onward to Book 4, The Final Sacrifice, which will end the current trilogy (and maybe any semblance of a 'series' for the rest of these first books).

I instantly checked Book 4's back cover, first thing, and was greatly amused that it continues to feature the same two cards bearing on the plot of Book 1 (we'll see if they finally loop back around to that book's plot specifically in the city of Estark) -- and also that the card for the Sewers of Estark, previously known on the first two back covers as "Sewers of Cityname"  :2funny: , continues to just not have the title of the card printed on it at all anymore!  :crazy2: :uglystupid2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 15, 2016, 11:27:50 AM
Just started, "Killing The Rising Sun" by Bill O'Reilly. Three Hundred pages. So I should be finished about bedtime.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 15, 2016, 12:01:01 PM
I've recently finished Death's Bright Day by David Drake.

His RCN series is some of the best Space Opera books ever written This is the 12th book in the series.  I like this series much better than the Honor Harrington books.

Death's Bright Day is not as good as say my favorite 7 books in this series.  I gave it 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon.  But 4 stars in the RCN series is a 5 star for pretty much any other author of space opera.

David Drake had his 70th birthday this year.  So no telling how many more books he will write.  Drake served in the 11th Cav in Vietnam/Cambodia so he has a military background for these books and the Hammers Slammers series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 15, 2016, 12:10:30 PM
Damn. I had no idea Drake was 70.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 15, 2016, 05:54:46 PM
Quote from: airboy on September 15, 2016, 12:01:01 PM
I've recently finished Death's Bright Day by David Drake.

His RCN series is some of the best Space Opera books ever written This is the 12th book in the series.  I like this series much better than the Honor Harrington books.

Death's Bright Day is not as good as say my favorite 7 books in this series.  I gave it 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon.  But 4 stars in the RCN series is a 5 star for pretty much any other author of space opera.

David Drake had his 70th birthday this year.  So no telling how many more books he will write.  Drake served in the 11th Cav in Vietnam/Cambodia so he has a military background for these books and the Hammers Slammers series.

His Belisarius series ( 'An Oblique Approach', etc) is pretty good as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 19, 2016, 05:51:06 PM
I am currently reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on September 19, 2016, 07:23:47 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on September 19, 2016, 05:51:06 PM
I am currently reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain.

I've heard of that one! Don't tell us how it ends!   8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 20, 2016, 05:14:40 AM
Quote from: Steelgrave on September 19, 2016, 07:23:47 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on September 19, 2016, 05:51:06 PM
I am currently reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain.

I've heard of that one! Don't tell us how it ends!   8)

The whale lives.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 20, 2016, 09:31:53 AM
I finished Agent of Byzantium by Harry Turtledove.  I got it for $1.99 and it was meh. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 20, 2016, 02:39:20 PM
Quote from: bbmike on September 20, 2016, 05:14:40 AM
Quote from: Steelgrave on September 19, 2016, 07:23:47 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on September 19, 2016, 05:51:06 PM
I am currently reading The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain.

I've heard of that one! Don't tell us how it ends!   8)

The whale lives.

Kolchak, however.... ......
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 20, 2016, 10:26:20 PM
Quote from: airboy on September 20, 2016, 09:31:53 AM
I finished Agent of Byzantium by Harry Turtledove.  I got it for $1.99 and it was meh.

I had the same reaction when I first read it many years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 22, 2016, 09:08:45 PM
Just started Hex by Thomas Olde Heuvelt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 23, 2016, 02:42:51 PM
I just started reading The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 23, 2016, 06:09:44 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on September 23, 2016, 02:42:51 PM
I just started reading The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams.

I have had that book for years but have yet to start it. LMK what you think after a chapter to two.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 23, 2016, 07:33:55 PM
If you like Tolkien, I think you would like it. I am enjoying it so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 23, 2016, 07:44:35 PM
It's been thirty years since I read The Dragonbone Chair.  The thing I remember most is not liking it.  Too close to Tolkien iIrc.  Ymmv.  Hope you enjoy, Greybriar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 26, 2016, 10:22:23 AM
Finished the fourth of the original MtG novels, The Final Sacrifice by Clayton Emery, at brunch a few minutes ago. Was kind of surprised that, after the strong connections back to book 1, Arena, in the previous entry, those connections were totally ignored even when the protagonists could have desperately needed them.

Overall, though, I thought the book worked well. Without going into spoilers, it tied more strongly back to the Brothers' War (which will eventually, and naturally, become the foundation of the new continuity later), and featured a lot of tactical fighting as every surviving antagonist (and some new ones from fights between books) returned in a (somewhat forced) team to fight the main characters and their wandering army. Lots of small-scale and large-scale action. All ongoing plotlines (such as they are, since really there aren't many) are tied up. The grim-grey tone returns, toned down a bit but still with random protagonist deaths of secondary characters whom the author took a little time to establish -- which is a nice touch as always. The typesetter, however, and/or the author, forgot to add extra carriage returns or small section breaks within chapters to signal when the scene had substantially changed, often with timeskips. I kept being janked out of the story whenever this happened, even though recognizing the real problem I could adjust for it.

The overarching plot technically continues at the end, with the protagonist army still positioned to keep hunting and leashing selfish wizards, now more effectively than ever; but my vague impression from studying the subsequent book plots (and whether any of them should be tried later when the continuity reboots) is that this plot will be dropped in favor of standalone entries that never, or only with trivial rareness, will call back to what's going on here. That will be annoying if true, but it's understandable and I think I'll have an easier time swallowing it if I'm prepared for the plot-disjunction.

Anyway, a new story for Book 5 to come! -- and I'll report on whether the back cover art has finally advanced!  :2funny: :crazy2: :uglystupid2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 02, 2016, 11:21:25 AM
Finished Beevor's Ardennes book a week or so ago. Now splitting time between his Crete and Spanish Civil War books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 02, 2016, 01:02:19 PM
Its a good read, innit. The Battle for Spain is excellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 02, 2016, 01:24:43 PM
Quote from: bob48 on October 02, 2016, 01:02:19 PM
Its a good read, innit. The Battle for Spain is excellent.

It truly is. Beevor is a master historian.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 02, 2016, 01:56:33 PM
Quote from: mirth on October 02, 2016, 11:21:25 AM
Finished Beevor's Ardennes book a week or so ago. Now splitting time between his Crete and Spanish Civil War books.

I'm reading Crete right now as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 02, 2016, 01:59:07 PM
Its definitely on my 'to buy' list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 02, 2016, 01:59:31 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on October 02, 2016, 01:56:33 PM
Quote from: mirth on October 02, 2016, 11:21:25 AM
Finished Beevor's Ardennes book a week or so ago. Now splitting time between his Crete and Spanish Civil War books.

I'm reading Crete right now as well.

So friggin good. His books are history crack.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 07, 2016, 08:51:17 AM
Just started, "Russia's Last Gasp" the last book of Prit Buttar's trilogy of WWI's Eastern Front. Be waiting on this one as the other two were... ex-cellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 07, 2016, 05:31:31 PM
Please post what you think!

About to start Outcast (graphic novel) by the guy who wrote The Walking Dead graphic novels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 07, 2016, 10:15:00 PM
I finished "Making Money" by Pratchett.  It is a shame he was never given a Hugo.  But he recused himself for "Going Postal" which is my favorite of the 10 or so books I've read in the series.  Making Money was good, but not as good as Going Postal which featured the same major character.

Reread "Tinker" by Wen Spencer.  Unfortunately had to repurchase because my 13 year old paperback made my allergies explode.  I reread because I was halfway through "Wood Sprites" and wanted to refresh my memory of the world.  Tinker is good, but too much romance for me.  I then deleted "Wood Sprites" by the same author that I was half way through because it has not been as good as Tinker and life is short.

I find a sharp dividing line in my SF reading.  If the story becomes too much about romantic relationships - the book becomes marginal even if very well written.  Tinker is a very interesting concept but went way too much into relationships.

I'm 50% through Mr. Lincoln's Army according to Mr. Kindle.  I think I read it 35 years ago or so.  It is good, but you just want to reach through the pages and slap McClellan for being such a doofus about Confederate troop strength.  I still think Lee was a great general, but he sure had a leg up on the competition before he had to face Grant.  McClellan and Pope so outnumbered the Army of Northern Virginia and they would not put their entire army (or even 80% of it) into action.  If Lee had taken the command of the Army of the Potomac as Winfield Scott wished him to do - he would have taken Richmond like a hot knife through butter within 24 months of the start of the war.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 07, 2016, 11:24:04 PM
Will do Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 08, 2016, 09:54:56 AM
Oops - Misread Mr. Kindle.  I finished Mr. Lincolns Army last night.  The other 45% of the book were references and excerpts from the next two books as an enticement to buy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 08, 2016, 07:50:08 PM
Thanks Slash. Read Outcast in one night while drunk. It was ok...definitely not on par with The Walking Dead. Started The Fisherman by John Langan. Very good, 25 pages in. Vivid, engaging writing. I can feel that the creepy vibe on this one is set to go way up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 09, 2016, 02:01:15 PM
Anyone hear anything about this
https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Reality-German-Warfare-Operational/dp/0813168376/ref

Always interested in serious treatments on German Operational work.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2016, 03:17:47 PM
^Have not heard of that one but while looking at your link Amazon recommended this one too:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1472813006/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 11, 2016, 03:27:45 PM
I usually like or love First Things, but I'm reading that article by Peter Hitchens (brother if I recall correctly to the late Christopher Hitchens?) and thinking... um... yeah, this argument only needs a few topical switches to be an apologetic for the Lebensraum policy that arrived at those anti-tank teeth you noticed within sight of Ivan the Great's bell tower, Hitch.  ::)

The Russian culture (somewhat distinct from the Soviet culture) can be great, and also the Russian people, but that doesn't make Putin less problematically dangerous to other nations and to his own.

Also, someone who thinks there's no good excuse for the existence of the FBI, is so dangerously, wildly naive that, to slightly paraphrase one of his fellow countrymen, "After a man has said that, why need one attend to anything else he says about any political situation in the world?"

Pretty good article otherwise.  O:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on October 12, 2016, 03:44:22 AM
I'm currently up to book 5 of the First Law series, The Heroes. Damn, what a book. I really enjoyed the trilogy and then the first standalone, Best Served Cold, but this is something else. It's basically the story of a single battle over 3 days and wow, brilliant characters and brilliant storytelling.  Minor spoiler ahead:


The chapter on the fighting of the first day is amazing, you start by following a character who gets killed and then you follow his killer, then he is killed and so forth until the climax.


END spoiler: It's a very brutal story but also can be very funny. Fantastic read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: undercovergeek on October 12, 2016, 04:02:25 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on October 12, 2016, 03:44:22 AM
I'm currently up to book 5 of the First Law series, The Heroes. Damn, what a book. I really enjoyed the trilogy and then the first standalone, Best Served Cold, but this is something else. It's basically the story of a single battle over 3 days and wow, brilliant characters and brilliant storytelling.  Minor spoiler ahead:


The chapter on the fighting of the first day is amazing, you start by following a character who gets killed and then you follow his killer, then he is killed and so forth until the climax.


END spoiler: It's a very brutal story but also can be very funny. Fantastic read.

Sold - I loved the trilogy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 12, 2016, 04:10:36 PM
Have begun reading Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Tales series; I just finished The Last Kingdom earlier today, and will start in on The Pale Horseman when I wake up tonight.  Technically, I'm actually re-reading the series (the first 6-7 books IIRC), but it's been so long that it's almost like reading them for the firsr time.  And I've not read the last 3-4 books at all, so I'm definitely looking forward to this.  :) 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 12, 2016, 06:43:57 PM
WHERE THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 12, 2016, 10:44:19 PM
I heard he was doing 18 to 24 months for that illegal Fertilization Clinic he was running.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 13, 2016, 02:07:32 PM
That was just the cover story.  I was actually in the Witness Protection Program until they could put away the Giraffe Mafia. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 13, 2016, 04:20:49 PM
The Giraffe Mafia doesn't play.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 13, 2016, 04:59:20 PM
Incredible Victory by Walter Lord, one of the benchmark books of Midway is on sale at amazon for $1.99

https://www.amazon.com/Incredible-Victory-Battle-Midway-Classics-ebook/dp/B0078X73G6?_bbid=2424922&tag=bookbubemailc-20
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2016, 12:43:34 PM
Just started Disappearance at Devil's Rock by Paul Tremblay.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 16, 2016, 05:34:15 PM
I am reading  Ship of Ghosts: The Story of the USS Houston, FDR's Legendary Lost Cruiser, and the Epic Saga of Her Survivors by James D. Hornfischer.  This is a book those who are interested in World War II in the Pacific should read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on October 16, 2016, 05:58:06 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on October 16, 2016, 05:34:15 PM
I am reading  Ship of Ghosts: The Story of the USS Houston, FDR's Legendary Lost Cruiser, and the Epic Saga of Her Survivors by James D. Hornfischer.  This is a book those who are interested in World War II in the Pacific should read.

Everything by Hornfischer is gold.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 17, 2016, 05:31:41 PM
Just started a collection of Lovecraft-inspired stories called 'A Lonely and Curious Country'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on October 23, 2016, 04:35:32 PM
Tried reading a book called 'Into the Guns'.  I only got through about a 1/3 of it.  It was such junk, that I actually went to B&N and gave it a 1 star and wrote a review. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 25, 2016, 10:57:12 AM
I'm currently finishing up C. S. Lewis' Till We Have Faces, the only major work of his I haven't read yet in all these years of being a superfan. (I even own and have read the OHEL! And enjoyed it!)

While I don't join those fans who think this is his best work evar (or not yet, I've still to finish Part 2, the extended epilogue to the story), I have been constantly amusing myself while reading it (beyond enjoying the work itself) by imagining that Lewis was writing a narrative AAR of a game of Crusader King 2! (Which for creativity's sake he re-set in a pre-Roman time, using fictional kingdoms.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 25, 2016, 02:29:55 PM
Am almost halfway through Lords of the North, the third book in Cornwell's Saxon Tales.  Thus far, I'm enjoying the series even more than I did the first time around.  :smitten: 


Coincidentally, I just received an email from B&N a few days ago notifying me that the tenth book, The Flame Bearer, is due to be released at the end of November.  Giggity!  :D 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on October 25, 2016, 07:33:02 PM
Got started on Gettysburg July 1 by David G. Martin. Not to far in but has lots of detail. Looking forward to working my through this.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 27, 2016, 07:44:11 PM
To Hell and Back by Ian Kershaw

https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Back-1914-1949-Penguin-History/dp/0670024589
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 27, 2016, 07:55:21 PM
^That's on my short list to-read...please post your impressions!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 27, 2016, 07:57:15 PM
Will do. I'm only a short ways in. So far, so good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 27, 2016, 08:00:27 PM
He's a great author...I pre-ordered that title. Just haven't been in a world war mood in a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 27, 2016, 08:02:44 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 27, 2016, 08:00:27 PM
He's a great author...I pre-ordered that title. Just haven't been in a world war mood in a while.

I hear ya. I like the scope on this one though, tying together both wars, the interwar period and the start of the Cold War. And he's going to do a second volume covering the rest of the 20th Century.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 27, 2016, 08:04:57 PM
Up until...1989?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on October 27, 2016, 08:17:53 PM
Quote from: Martok on October 25, 2016, 02:29:55 PM
Coincidentally, I just received an email from B&N a few days ago notifying me that the tenth book, The Flame Bearer, is due to be released at the end of November.  Giggity!  :D

The next book for David Weber's Honorverse Series, 'Shadow of Victory', is coming out 1 Nov and his next book in his Safehold series, 'At the Sign of Triumph', comes at a week later on 8 Nov.  It's going to be a busy November for you Martok. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 27, 2016, 08:22:16 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 27, 2016, 08:04:57 PM
Up until...1989?

Not sure.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on November 01, 2016, 07:44:22 PM
Started Shadow of Victory.  The last book in the Honor Harrington series by David Weber. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 01, 2016, 08:32:00 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on November 01, 2016, 07:44:22 PM
Started Shadow of Victory.  The last book in the Honor Harrington series by David Weber.

Uh, last.. or latest...?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on November 01, 2016, 08:42:58 PM
Finished V.M. Keats' "Winged Victory": a very good semi-autobiographical book about aerial combat in World War One. Highlights the excitement, terror, comradeship and even sometimes boredom of being a fighter pilot in the RFC. The book reminded me a lot of the 1976  movie "Aces High" which I really like.

Just started "A Brief History of the Roman Empire: Rise and Fall" by Stephen Kershaw.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on November 01, 2016, 09:06:37 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on November 01, 2016, 08:32:00 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on November 01, 2016, 07:44:22 PM
Started Shadow of Victory.  The last book in the Honor Harrington series by David Weber.

Uh, last.. or latest...?

Yes, the latest.  Though it's my understanding that it's last of the Shadow story line. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on November 02, 2016, 04:24:26 AM
I've started the first book in the freebie Four Years War Star Trek novel series. It's been pretty good so far, the writing's not bad and it's set in the background established by FASA for the STRPG which has always been my favourite ST setting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 02, 2016, 01:12:04 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on October 27, 2016, 08:17:53 PM
Quote from: Martok on October 25, 2016, 02:29:55 PM
Coincidentally, I just received an email from B&N a few days ago notifying me that the tenth book, The Flame Bearer, is due to be released at the end of November.  Giggity!  :D

The next book for David Weber's Honorverse Series, 'Shadow of Victory', is coming out 1 Nov and his next book in his Safehold series, 'At the Sign of Triumph', comes at a week later on 8 Nov.  It's going to be a busy November for you Martok.
Oy!  I was not aware of that.  :o  Thanks for the heads-up, OJsDad

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on November 02, 2016, 10:43:48 PM
Quote from: Martok on November 02, 2016, 01:12:04 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on October 27, 2016, 08:17:53 PM
Quote from: Martok on October 25, 2016, 02:29:55 PM
Coincidentally, I just received an email from B&N a few days ago notifying me that the tenth book, The Flame Bearer, is due to be released at the end of November.  Giggity!  :D

The next book for David Weber's Honorverse Series, 'Shadow of Victory', is coming out 1 Nov and his next book in his Safehold series, 'At the Sign of Triumph', comes at a week later on 8 Nov.  It's going to be a busy November for you Martok.
Oy!  I was not aware of that.  :o  Thanks for the heads-up, OJsDad!

Your welcome.  You should see some of the snippets Weber's post on his web site for ATST.  The one is absolutely mouth watering. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 03, 2016, 04:01:27 PM
Gah!  Stop teasing me!  Must get through the Saxon books first! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 10, 2016, 02:47:00 PM
Catton's "Glory Road" is available in ebook for $1.99
https://www.amazon.com/Glory-Road-Army-Potomac-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B015DJ7DDE?_bbid=2431922&tag=bookbubemailc-20
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 11, 2016, 11:50:49 AM
Just finished Sword Song; next one in the series is The Burning Land.  Am slightly worried I'll finish the 8th book before the 9th one (The Flame Bearer) is released at the end of the month. 


EDIT:  Me no count gud.  :-[ 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on November 16, 2016, 07:19:10 AM
Just started re-reading Icerigger (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/898559.Icerigger) by Alan Dean Foster. I read it and the sequel way back in high school and both are good books. There is a third book that I never read and I'm looking forward to reading it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 16, 2016, 09:56:52 PM
The Audible versions of the Heinlein juveniles have been very good.  Thus far I've listened to Farmer in the Sky, Space Cadet, Orphans in the Sky (I'd avoid that one), Citizen of the Galaxy and Have Spacesuit Will Travel.

The only negative is how the narrator says "huh?" 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on November 18, 2016, 04:09:50 PM
Just finished David Weber's 'At the Sign of Triumph'.  This ended the current story line for the Safehold series.  Weber has promised more books, but not sure when he plans on delivering them.

I cannot say that a lot of how the book ended was a surprise.  Not that it wasn't worth reading, just not a great surprise.  Having read all of Safehold books, and more of the Honor Harrington books, I wasn't blown away with some of the twists that he through in.  Not that I saw them coming, it's just that he has so many twists and surprises, that I tend to expect them.

Weber's a good writer, but in this book, and some of his others, include Shadow of Victory, he gets too long winded.  Too many scenes that he goes into great detail for no real purpose.  Felt like I was rereading the same sections at times, just different names and places.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 18, 2016, 10:30:33 PM
I finished rereading "The Drawing of the Dark" by Tim Powers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 21, 2016, 11:45:49 AM
Finished "Taken" and "Treachery's Tools"

Treachery's Tools was good if you like the Imager books by Modesitt.  I would read the Harry Dresden series instead of Taken.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on November 21, 2016, 01:21:22 PM
I'm working my way through some of the 'Disc World' books again because they always cheer me up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on November 21, 2016, 01:38:19 PM
I just read the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek Owners/Operators Manual.

Still unclear what the consequences are of driving/running the Suby's boxer engine when the little temperature light is still blue. Seems to stay on for awhile.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 21, 2016, 03:14:18 PM
Ohhh. I LOVE Owner's Manuals. It's like punishing your brain when it miss-behaves.  :wow:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 21, 2016, 04:28:10 PM
I just finished the first two Missing 411 books (Western US & Canada + Eastern US and Quebec / Nova Scotia) by David Paulides. Not for the faint of heart (or faint of wallet -- the cheapest way to get the current box set still runs over $100, and many books are out of print so sell at exorbitant rates easily crossing $80 each.)

By the nature of his research, a good half the cases simply fall in the "they disappeared in this area at some time around then and were never seen again", with no real details beyond that. But the cases that do have details are often chilling in themselves, and moreso as the less-but-still-somewhat detailed cases correspond to the variant patterns of the more detailed cases.

I'm not sure yet how many of his subsequent books (I think there are six in the box) repeat past case reports from earlier books; I'm working on finishing another small book before going back to the series. But anyone living in rural North America ought to become familiar with the case details: whatever the cause(s), the cases are still happening with some regularity. The Pinson, TN boy south of here about an hour and a half corresponds strongly to the details; and while I was reading it (the first two books are actually one book in two volumes) Mom heard about a case on the news, involving the daughter of one of the famous "Piano Men" internet musical team whose disappearance and remains fit the profile somewhat just in the past few weeks.

For those unfamiliar with the cases, people disappear in rural areas across all North America (although with some areas producing more clusters than others), often in or near state or national parks, in ways which aren't easily explicable. Young children, most of whom have just learned to walk up to 4 years old, make up a majority of the cases. When dogs are used, they either lose the scent or never pick it up or refuse to track even when they have the scene. When recovered alive, they're always in peculiar places that make little to no sense for their capabilities or (when adults) their situation. They tend to shed some or most or all their clothes quickly after disappearing regardless of weather conditions (which tend to get suddenly worse after their disappearance, hampering searches). Shoes and (where applicable) socks are most often lost, yet their feet show little sign of wear even if they have thorn scratches on the rest of their bodies. Not uncommonly, the found clothes are discovered in weird placements (whether or not the person is found alive or dead). If found dead, their bodies will either show up in areas already thoroughly searched despite (per autopsies) having died soon after disappearing; or they'll be recovered from freakishly difficult to reach areas that make no sense for them to have gotten into. If they leave behind equipment other than clothes, the equipment makes little sense for how they've been abandoned. Sometimes extensive searching turns up nothing at all. When recovered alive or dead (more often dead), they're found miles (sometimes many miles) from where such a person could be expected to have gotten to, often having crossed terrain that make no sense for the time and capabilities involved for them to have arrived at final recovery. If recovered, they're either too young (or mentally disabled already) to give clear explanations for what happened; or if adults, they act like they've been drugged in such a way that they couldn't form memories to recover. Despite the fact that the FBI doesn't officially get involved in mere missing person cases, they often show up to observe and advise even when abduction hasn't been formally proposed. In the Appalachians (especially on the Tennessee / North Carolina border), Green Berets have been sometimes brought in to hunt in armed squads to find the missing person -- never successfully so far.

One of the most damning bits of data brought forth, is that neither the Department of the Interior, the National Park Service, nor the National Parks themselves, profess to keep lists of people who have gone missing in or nearby the parks; and their explanations for not doing so sound reaalllly lame. When the author brings this up in discussion with other law enforcement officers and Seach-And-Rescue leaders, he says the response is universal incredulity, since this is an extremely basic law enforcement jurisdictional action. No one except the NPS relies on "institutional memory" (i.e. the experience of officers working in the area over time) to keep track of missing persons: it would be impossible to track patterns for detecting and catching serial abductors! This is basically why Paulides started the series, to provide the closest thing possible to a database for unexplained missing persons in and near American national and state parks, after discussing a smaller set of such disappearances years ago with a park ranger and learning there is no such database. (Or for oddly explained disappearances where the official explanation doesn't match the known data of the disappearance very well.)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 21, 2016, 04:38:16 PM
The blue light on a Subaru dash means 'global warming is a myth'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 21, 2016, 07:25:14 PM
Quote from: Gusington on November 21, 2016, 04:38:16 PM
The blue light on a Subaru dash means 'global warming is a myth'

It actually means that the engine is not yet hot enough to cook roadkill on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on November 21, 2016, 07:27:16 PM
I've read Earthrise Book 1 and Earthrise Book 2 in dribs and drabs here and there...it's a great concept though the stories are a bit weak and the characters don't act much like soldiers. I'll probably eventually pick up Book 3 but only after I get through the library I have on my Kindle.

Finally started Honor Harrington Book 2 last night.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 21, 2016, 08:35:12 PM
Realized that I haven't posted the last 3-4 books I've read because I have been reading them pretty quickly. Still in pseudo-Halloween mode. Right now I'm in the middle of the Penguin History of the Undead: 1500 Years of Supernatural Encounters, edited by Scott Bruce. It is very academic but kinda interesting to skim late at night :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on November 22, 2016, 03:48:52 AM
Quote from: Gusington on November 21, 2016, 04:38:16 PM
The blue light on a Subaru dash means 'global warming is a myth'
I love it when you talk bad you dirty boy!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 22, 2016, 10:02:53 AM
TEEHEE
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 22, 2016, 10:44:21 AM
I thought the 'Blue Light' meant it was on sale at K-Mart. I know the Green Light means it was assembled in America and is about to fall-apart. Get ready to spend some 'Green'.  #:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on November 22, 2016, 05:14:28 PM
Not sure who built the Subaru, other than the label indicates its Japanese
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 22, 2016, 05:24:11 PM
Fuji Heavy Industries
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 22, 2016, 08:06:59 PM
^ that's what it said on the engine block of my 78 Subaru Brat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 22, 2016, 08:13:06 PM
Yep, still Fuji now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 22, 2016, 08:24:32 PM
The spare tire was under the hood, over the air-cleaner cover. Unusual for then and probably now as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 22, 2016, 09:21:01 PM
Fuji also made this for the Japanese Air *ahem* 'Self Defense' Force...

(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/dc/3f/99/dc3f99cdfa339197c0ed572f0a14d86f.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 22, 2016, 10:42:36 PM
Where's the spare tire on that one?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 22, 2016, 10:48:13 PM
Quote from: Gusington on November 22, 2016, 05:24:11 PM
Fuji Shinohara Heavy Industries

>:D  :nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 22, 2016, 11:49:22 PM
Spare is under the nose, of course.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on November 23, 2016, 09:34:21 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on November 21, 2016, 07:27:16 PM
Finally started Honor Harrington Book 2 last night.

I've been reading it on my Kindle App. Good stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 23, 2016, 07:00:25 PM
As an update, the 3rd Missing 411 so far (about 1/3 into it) features only new or newly discovered cases, not repeats from the first two volumes -- although naturally parallels with certain cases in the first two volumes are discussed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on November 24, 2016, 03:15:29 PM
Just started Death of Kings, the 8th novel in Cornwell's Saxon Chronicles.  It's the first book in the series I've not yet read, so am entering uncharted territory. 

Also:  I realized I'll be able to pick up book 10 (The Flame Bearer) before I finish book 9 after all.  Huzzah! 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 25, 2016, 01:30:35 PM
Started Dutch New York: The Roots of Hudson Valley Culture, edited by Roger Panetta - a companion book to the 2009 art exhibit celebrating the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's discoveries.

After that it will be Revolution on the Hudson: New York City & the Hudson River Valley in the American War of Independence by George Daughan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on November 25, 2016, 07:11:25 PM
Quote from: Gusington on November 25, 2016, 01:30:35 PM
Started Dutch New York: The Roots of Hudson Valley Culture, edited by Roger Panetta - a companion book to the 2009 art exhibit celebrating the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's discoveries.

After that it will be Revolution on the Hudson: New York City & the Hudson River Valley in the American War of Independence by George Daughan.

Intriguing...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 25, 2016, 09:39:30 PM
The first book on the Dutch is very academic so I am basically skimming it. I expect the 2nd book to be better. After that 2nd book comes Six Frigates by Ian Toll, which I have been waiting to read forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 01, 2016, 07:23:54 AM
I found a nice book called Survivors of Stalingrad: Eyewitness Accounts from the 6th Army, 1942-43 (https://www.amazon.com/Survivors-Stalingrad-Eyewitness-Accounts-1942-43-ebook/dp/B00OZ3I186/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480594503&sr=8-1&keywords=stalingrad+german+survivor). It's very easy to digest as most accounts are only a few pages each. I got the Kindle version many months ago (it's showing as $13.99 now, but I rarely pay that much for Kindle books so it must have been on sale). Most of the accounts are great reads as I've always been fascinated by the battle, especially the last few months (even fictional accounts like War of the Rats (https://www.amazon.com/War-Rats-David-L-Robbins/dp/055358135X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480594834&sr=8-1&keywords=war+of+the+rats) and Disaster at Stalingrad: An Alternate History (https://www.amazon.com/Disaster-at-Stalingrad-Alternate-History/dp/1848326637/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480594862&sr=8-1&keywords=stalingrad+alternate+history) are great reads).

I was thinking of buying the book Alien: River of Pain (https://www.amazon.com/Disaster-at-Stalingrad-Alternate-History/dp/1848326637/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480594862&sr=8-1&keywords=stalingrad+alternate+history), which deals with the events on LV-426 before the movie Aliens happened. The reviews are fairly high (four out of five stars), but after reading some of the reviews, it's apparent that the book has issues tying in with Aliens, so I might skip it for now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 01, 2016, 08:16:12 AM
It sounds like 'Alien: River of Pain' has some serious plot issues:


QuoteAccording to the book, there was a full contingent of colonial marines at Hadley's Hope, about 10 or 12 of them. They are armed with far more than just the hand guns and seismic survey charges. They have the same advanced equipment (pulse rifles, motion trackers) that the group led by Gorman in "Aliens" has. Right there this is a deal-breaker as it destroys the premise of the helpless civilians laid out in "Aliens" and takes all the suspense out of the struggle. Burke or Gorman might have mentioned there had been marines on LV-426 but nope, somehow it didn't come up.

I have to agree, that's a deal-breaker. If there was a full squad of marines on the colony before it went dark, it's pretty unlikely higher command would sent just one squad in to investigate. The idea that the first squad would not be mentioned at all in Aliens seems ludicrous. Pass.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JudgeDredd on December 01, 2016, 08:20:36 AM
Currently Alien
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 01, 2016, 10:49:27 AM
Quote from: mirth on December 01, 2016, 08:16:12 AM
It sounds like 'Alien: River of Pain' has some serious plot issues:


QuoteAccording to the book, there was a full contingent of colonial marines at Hadley's Hope, about 10 or 12 of them. They are armed with far more than just the hand guns and seismic survey charges. They have the same advanced equipment (pulse rifles, motion trackers) that the group led by Gorman in "Aliens" has. Right there this is a deal-breaker as it destroys the premise of the helpless civilians laid out in "Aliens" and takes all the suspense out of the struggle. Burke or Gorman might have mentioned there had been marines on LV-426 but nope, somehow it didn't come up.

I have to agree, that's a deal-breaker. If there was a full squad of marines on the colony before it went dark, it's pretty unlikely higher command would sent just one squad in to investigate. The idea that the first squad would not be mentioned at all in Aliens seems ludicrous. Pass.

Yeah, that was the most egregious of those mentioned in the reviews. I could understand/get behind a police force (a small one), colony-side, sort of Outland style (Sean Connery), torn between corporate BS and doing his job the way it's supposed to be done. THAT has tons more potential and much more believable at going under the radar or explaining why problems weren't reported and why LV-426 just suddenly went off the air.

I liked the Aliens books that came out in the 90s that more or less mirrored the Dark Horse comics, where Aliens get to Earth and overrun it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 10:53:39 AM
Get to Earth you say? Is there an omnibus of those Dark Horse comics?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 01, 2016, 10:59:34 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 10:53:39 AM
Get to Earth you say? Is there an omnibus of those Dark Horse comics?

As far as the novels go, I'm thinking of the trilogy by Steve Perry (I doubt it's that Steve Perry). I might be getting the details fuzzy as it's been a while, but the series was good.

Book 1 - Earth Hive (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aliens:_Earth_Hive)
Book 2 - Nightmare Asylum (http://nightmare%20asylum)
Book 3 - The Female War (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aliens:_The_Female_War)

Take a look at this omnibus of the first two books (https://www.amazon.com/Aliens-Omnibus-Earth-Nightmare-Asylum/dp/1857984137) on Amazon.

Dark Horse has done a TON of comics on the Aliens universe (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aliens_(comic_book)), though I don't recall all of them. I still have the Newt's Tale comic somewhere (which tells her story on LV-426 and is pretty good). It's a little weird at first, but the stories overall are pretty impressive.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 11:01:50 AM
Thank you Sir. I have some browsing to do.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 01, 2016, 11:30:18 AM
I read Earth Hive back in the day. It was decent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 02:25:48 PM
Wow that omnibus is avawesome available for less than 5 dollah new!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 02:27:14 PM
There are also 2 other omnibusses - how are those?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 01, 2016, 02:30:23 PM
I never read anything other than Earth Hive. I don't think the others were out back then and by the time they were published I had moved on to other things.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 01, 2016, 02:31:22 PM
Just buy 'em all, Gus. Ya know ya wanna.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 02:35:32 PM
I am looking through he related books now - there is a sweet encyclopedia of the universe called Alien - The Weyland Yutani Report...anyone have that?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 01, 2016, 02:38:13 PM
Feel free to buy it as my Christmas present.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 01, 2016, 02:40:49 PM
Beyond those books (and there's many more besides the one trilogy of course), the nerdiest I got with Aliens was buying a copy of the Aliens Role Playing Game (http://avp.wikia.com/wiki/Aliens_Adventure_Game).

Never played it, but that never stopped me from buying RPG books that looked interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 02:45:34 PM
Check out the encyclopedia...it is the bomb diggity. The art is not by Giger but by some dude named Pansegru but it still looks damned good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 01, 2016, 02:47:19 PM
Thanks for calling it out, Gus. It looks pretty good.

Thanks for the link (https://www.amazon.com/Alien-Weyland-Yutani-Report-S-Perry/dp/160887866X), too. :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 02:49:28 PM
Also the Aliens Colonial Marines Tech Manual...sexy!!

I am on my phone so you'll have to take two seconds and do your own damned search, knaves!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 01, 2016, 03:16:42 PM
Did a midget just call us 'knaves?'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 01, 2016, 03:18:00 PM
He's a feisty one, but he'll soon learn some manners.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 01, 2016, 03:19:32 PM
I must absolutely apologize for such an offensive and non-inclusive statement made by me regarding midgets.

He's not "A" midget, he's "OUR" midget.  ^-^
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 08:43:33 PM
I can't wait for the day [that may never come] when you all find out my true height. And race.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 01, 2016, 08:52:47 PM
Yeah fellas. Don't make him angry. Look what happened to these guys...



(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/85/35/b5/8535b5015c1c8e08095891232ebe001a.jpg)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on December 01, 2016, 08:54:04 PM
What a great album that was. First real rock album I bought with my own money.
\m/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 01, 2016, 10:03:08 PM
That is actually a really close physical likeness to me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 01, 2016, 11:48:27 PM
Really?!?! No Testes? Or have they not dropped yet?  :peace:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 03, 2016, 01:31:45 PM
No but mine are highly evolved.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 03, 2016, 08:38:07 PM
Finished "A Brief History of the Roman Empire: Rise and Fall" by Stephen Kershaw. A very good book which gives details of all emperors from Augustus to the end of the western Roman Empire.

Starting to read Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's "August 1914". I bought the second book ("November 1916") in the series many years ago, but haven't read it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on December 03, 2016, 11:27:50 PM
Finished the Gettysburg book and now starting The Battle of the Wilderness by Gordon Rhea. For a bit lighter reading on the Kindle I'm reading Braving the Storms which is the third volume of Strengthe What Remains series by Kyle Pratt. I just love a good post apocalyptic series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 12:10:45 PM
Wally I have been wanting a I read August 1914 for a long time. How is it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 04, 2016, 05:29:50 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 12:10:45 PM
Wally I have been wanting a I read August 1914 for a long time. How is it?
I'm only about thirteen pages into the book so I can't say much about it yet. So far so good though. You get a good feel of life in Imperial Russia in 1914 from what I've read and Tolstoy's writings have played quite a large part in the main character's motivations at least in the beginning.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 06:21:37 PM
^Thanks Wally!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 04, 2016, 06:40:15 PM
Re-reading Castles of Steel now. Can't believe I don't own it already.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 07:43:42 PM
Why don't you own it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 04, 2016, 07:46:31 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 07:43:42 PM
Why don't you own it?

Oversight on my part. Soon to be corrected.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 08:32:28 PM
Available for a penny!

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0345408780/ref=tmm_pap_used_olp_sr?ie=UTF8&condition=used&qid=1480901512&sr=1-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 04, 2016, 08:36:35 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 08:32:28 PM
Available for a penny!

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0345408780/ref=tmm_pap_used_olp_sr?ie=UTF8&condition=used&qid=1480901512&sr=1-1


Meh. I'll buy it new and take the free Prime shipping.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 05, 2016, 06:28:02 AM
I just received 'Dien Bien Phu' today (by Legion Games and via Limey-Yank - thanks Andy :bd:) so I'll be reading 'Hell in a Very Small Place' again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 12, 2016, 04:32:53 PM
Finished Vol 3 (technically Book 2) of Missing 411, and as previously expected it was almost all new material with the occasional, and reasonable, call backs to prior entries for comparison. Vol 4 ("The Devils in the Detail") is following suit so far.

Which is great for book value, though of course terrible for the number of people whose lives have been ruined and/or lost by whatever. :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 13, 2016, 09:56:21 AM
Just finished, "Russia's Last Gasp" by Prit Buttar. The third of 4 books covering WWI's East Front. And another great one full of detail and info mostly covering 1916's Brusilov's Offensive but the Rumanian Campaign as well.

These are my kind of books-- 500 pages plus, lots of battle details, quotes from both sides, and the in's and out's of planning, political maneuvering, and why what didn't work didn't and what might have.

My only niggling complaint is as before, plain, generic maps that don't always fit the fighting going on at the time. Especially tough if you've no general knowledge of Russian geography.

But anyone interested in the time or subject couldn't go wrong in reading this excellent series. Can't wait for number 4.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 13, 2016, 11:44:27 AM
I've only read the first one, which is excellent. Must catch up with the others.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 13, 2016, 07:16:29 PM
Beginning The Wake by Paul Kingsnorth tonight, historical/apocalyptic fiction set during the Norman invasion of England.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 14, 2016, 06:05:56 AM
After finishing that Stalingrad book, I started reading Book 2 of Honor Harrington, but before I went too far into it I instead started Constitution: Book 1 of The Legacy Fleet Trilogy (https://www.amazon.com/Constitution-Book-Legacy-Fleet-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B010L6JTO0). I grabbed this a long time ago on sale through Amazon for my Kindle and forgot about it (I have a lot of those on my Kindle, heh). It's a pretty good read so far; I'm about four or so chapters in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 14, 2016, 04:19:39 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on December 13, 2016, 09:56:21 AM
Just finished, "Russia's Last Gasp" by Prit Buttar. The third of 4 books covering WWI's East Front. And another great one full of detail and info mostly covering 1916's Brusilov's Offensive but the Rumanian Campaign as well.

I take it Book 4 will be about the subsequent multi-sided Russian Civil War?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 14, 2016, 11:45:16 PM
No idea but probably yes along with the wrap-up of the war in the east.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on December 16, 2016, 11:12:07 AM
Georgette Heyer , A civil contract . She is an author along the lines of Jane Austen , with most of her books taking place in regency England . I discovered her a couple of years ago and I'm slowly making my way through her rather large catalogue of books !

I'm listening to this one on audible , usually before bed when I want to wind down , but today she's got me through cleaning the windows in the kitchen ....ugh , thank god for audible !
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 17, 2016, 08:33:22 PM
Someone upthread mentioned a book covering the Roman Empire history through colorful discussion of all the Emperors -- A Short History of the Roman Empire? (I don't have my Kindle immediately at hand, and there is at least one more Short History book on the Roman Empire -- which also focuses on the Emperors iirc, just to make things confusing.)

Anyway. Wishlisted it at the time, and picked it up on Kindle a few days ago. Thoroughly enjoying it; currently up to Caesar having departed Cleopatra in Egypt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 19, 2016, 01:05:34 PM
Started Eye of the World this morning. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on December 19, 2016, 03:34:19 PM
I was in the Dermatologists Office for over 2 hours today. Read a People Magazine that said Brad Pitt and Angelina were engaged.... sure there was one magazine that said it was Gwenyth and Brad that were the engaged couple... time warps are real... in doctors offices.

Oh and I now have a few more cool scars to make stories up for the grandkids
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 19, 2016, 06:41:55 PM
^Olde.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 19, 2016, 06:43:54 PM
They still print People magazine?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 19, 2016, 06:46:39 PM
You won't believe this but I receive it on a weekly basis and no one in my household ordered it. Started about three weeks ago out of nowhere. I plan to keep some of the issues around for when Mama Gus visits and toss the rest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 19, 2016, 06:53:47 PM
It's good for reading on the can.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 19, 2016, 07:49:15 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 19, 2016, 01:05:34 PM
Started Eye of the World this morning.


Do yourself a favor and stop now.  It is neverending and will leave you wanting something more "light."  Like the Complete Supreme Court Rulings from inception to the present day.  With addendums, annuals, commentaries, and notations.  Trust me on this.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on December 19, 2016, 09:10:15 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 19, 2016, 07:49:15 PM
Quote from: Bison on December 19, 2016, 01:05:34 PM
Started Eye of the World this morning.


Do yourself a favor and stop now.  It is neverending and will leave you wanting something more "light."  Like the Complete Supreme Court Rulings from inception to the present day.  With addendums, annuals, commentaries, and notations.  Trust me on this.

Too late, buddy!  I'm already 200+ pages into the book, but its the only one I own in the series so I doubt I will go beyond this one.  Its the first for enjoyment reading I've done is several months, so far its been a nice light page turner.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 20, 2016, 12:23:43 AM
It's your time good sense brain cells soul eyesight to lose.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 21, 2016, 10:01:00 AM
Never mind Sour-tok; it does end, and the ending is pretty great.  O0

Not that I blame anyone for giving up on it long before then, or for being bitter about it: the last six books actually written by RJ, could have been compressed into two quite feasibly, and that's where I finally gave up originally (until the series was actually finished by Sanderson and reports from friends gave me hope).

Feel free to keep us updated as you go!  O:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 21, 2016, 01:19:08 PM
I finished Vol 4 of Missing 411 at brunch today; as with Vol 3 (Vols 1 and 2 being intended as one large book), the cases are all entirely new, although like Vol 3 some brief time is spent mentioning similarities to earlier cases from Vols 1-3. The stat crunch at the end takes account of all four volumes so far, for 730 cases (if I recall correctly) up to this volume. I still lack another two or three volumes before catching up through the latest release.

Despite the colorful subtitle, "The Devil's In The Detail", Paulides doesn't focus especially on what he's evidently referring to from the cover design: the number of "devil" or similar names for geographical locations in North America. Maybe that's because there doesn't seem to be a significantly larger number of such sites in the missing list. I know from crypto studies that he's probably referencing Bigfoot with that list; but while he still doesn't talk openly about what he thinks is happening, a reader who knows his interests (he started this while researching native Bigfoot lore in the Pacific Northwest) can read between the lines a bit when he says he started this study with one expectation but has started shifting to other ideas. (i.e. fairy bigfoot aliens?) As of this book, he likes six rather different theories which he doesn't discuss the details of.

I'm hoping by the current entry (2 vols from now?) he'll have thought to start cross-comparing the disappearances with cases that seemed similarly strange but ended up with mundane explanations. In Vol 3, he ended with some updates and in one of them he very briefly reported that the woman in question had been found alive in a rest home or something like that. His lack of detail was itself suspicious, and in this case more against him: if this was a mundane explanation after all, that's still data to help in working out answers!

Moreover, I'd like to see better comparisons with a SAR guidebook he often references, about where children of various ages have previously been found in various terrain, e.g. 95% of the time a child X years old will be found on flat terrain within Y miles or something like that, with his current example busting that curve hard. (Weird missing cases can be found well inside the statistical location curve, too.) Are the weird missing cases significantly affecting that curve? -- that seems likely. If 5% of kids are found within X radius, how many of the kids outside this radius are M411? And of any that aren't, did they have M411 characteristics to any degree?

At some point, he should also consider bracketing out about 50 cases from Vols 1 and 2 which had very minimal information, which he included simply in case they helped identify clusters and evidently had enough unusualness to be reported wherever he found them (in news accounts and/or law enforcement records). I understand there's a good reason to include them for investigating potential patterns, but the level of detail is so low that they might be returning false data blips, too. They shouldn't just be ignored, he has enough data now that he should sideline them as proportionately minimal evidence.

I haven't started Vol 5 yet, so I can't report yet about whether he continues with fresh cases or starts re-printing old ones.

Edited to add: please note that sometimes the individual books are out of print; I got mine in a bound collection reasonably price, but the price gouging for individual entries on Amazon is freakish. Don't buy there -- not one penny goes to the author anyway (who doesn't sell them on Amazon). www.canammissing.com
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on December 21, 2016, 05:19:33 PM
Sick in bed reading. Instructions Manual for my Roku 3 Device.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 21, 2016, 05:36:46 PM
Does it detect squirrels?  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on December 22, 2016, 01:01:08 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on December 21, 2016, 05:36:46 PM
Does it detect squirrels?  >:D

No but it makes it easy to stream netflix
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 22, 2016, 10:15:41 PM
I found something called Waterloo: The History of Four Days, Three Armies, and Three Battles (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MMFCEDC/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1) for my Kindle for only 2.99. Admittedly I don't know as much about this battle as I'd like so I'll get to it when I finish the first book in the Constitution series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on December 30, 2016, 08:34:53 AM
Kiss Me Like a Stranger: My Search for Love and Art by Gene Wilder
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on December 30, 2016, 08:53:19 AM
Just finished reading Little Wars by H.G. Wells, finally. Great little book and look at early wargaming, gentleman style. Would really like to find the spring fired cannons he used, or something like it available today, and give his game a try... complete rules in the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 02, 2017, 10:35:58 PM
About to start Life in a Medieval City by Joseph & Frances Gies.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 11, 2017, 01:52:34 PM
Finished Volume 5 of David Paulides' Missing 411, called "A Sobering Coincidence". A bit shorter at 363 pages, it still contains almost entirely new reports, with the usual brief comparisons to some past entries; plus a handful of prior cases re-classified and re-presented.

This volume practically counts as the first true sequel in the series, as Paulides shifts over to a new but overlapping topic, one he had intentionally left out before: cases of (mostly) college-age young professional and accomplished men disappearing and being found dead in water, usually although not always after drinking (and/or smoking weed). Although the concept of drunk young men dying in nearby water is so prevalent as to be stereotypical, these men (and two women) stand out for the cases being highly a-typical, with overlapping details similar to other disappearances and deaths in prior books -- one big difference being that only two men in the book seem to have survived the experience.

Paulides was convinced to start including drowning accounts in his lists (as long as they meet other criteria) after, during his research, chancing onto a reference to a forensic pathology casebook written by Professor D. Le Gilbertson and retired New York City Homicide Detective Kevin Gannon called Case Studies in Drowning Forensics. Despite the broad sounding title, the book focuses on fourteen case studies with similar motifs where subsequent cold-case analysis (in great forensic detail) suggests that the verdict of accidental drowning has, for various reasons, been misapplied to men who, on the scientific evidence, must have been abducted by unknown parties, kept alive for periods of up to a few weeks, then slain in somewhat unknown ways (in one case the body had been almost completely drained of fluid, even from in the eyeballs, by means the coroners and forensic pathologists could not detect) and placed in bodies of water so as to superficially mimic an accidental drowning. When Paulides read about the motifs surrounding their disappearance and subsequent dead recoveries, he realized he had come across many similar cases beyond the fourteen found by Gilbertson and Gannon; and reporting these becomes the core of Volume 5.

I do think Paulides may be mistaking detection characteristics for an abduction criteria that doesn't necessarily exist; a point I have occasionally thought in his previous volumes, too. There are reasons the cases stand out as not being easily, or at all, explicable: the men aren't depressed losers too dumb and too physically incompetent to survive, which makes their cases stand out; prior victims are also smart, competent, stable and talented people which makes their cases stand out -- or, they're medically and mentally challenged people which, in other ways, makes their cases stand out (because they couldn't be normally expected to do so-and-so or accomplish this-and-that.) By, naturally, focusing on examples where characteristics of the victims make clearer that they aren't (evidently) accidentally dying or getting radically lost, those characteristics naturally become a selection pattern; but not necessarily a selection by whatever agents or process is claiming their lives, rather a selection by Paulides which helps him detect aberrant cases.

I have noted in prior reviews that at some point David needs to spend a lot more time giving us 'control' examples: if a young man dies in water of normally explicable causes after getting drunk, how does that happen? -- what kind of usual characteristics can we expect, and what kind of unusual variance characteristics can we expect? If (to ref other books) a 2 year old is found 95% of the time downhill in mountainous terrain within 1.6 miles (or whatever the stat range was), what about the other 5%? What do normal exceptions to the rule, so to speak, normally look like?

This has not yet happened -- or not in his books. Maybe on the internet site, www.canammissing.com ?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 11, 2017, 01:59:47 PM
David and Ben Paulides produced a documentary film last year, which they're hoping will be picked up for distribution (don't think that's happened yet). Here's the trailer:

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2017, 08:40:46 PM
Just started The Norman Conquest: The Battle of Hastings and the Fall of Anglo Saxon England by Marc Morris.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 12, 2017, 09:06:43 PM
Countdown to Pearl Harbor (https://www.amazon.com/Countdown-Pearl-Harbor-Twelve-Attack/dp/1476776466) by Steve Twomey
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 12, 2017, 09:23:24 PM
The Destroyermen book 1 (https://www.amazon.com/Into-Storm-Destroyermen-Taylor-Anderson/dp/0451462378). Good first book, way less pulpy than the promo blurb sounds.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on January 13, 2017, 06:13:22 AM
I just finished this book.  Good, broad view of some of the key factors in the allied victory in WW2.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F2JPQ9BA.jpg&hash=af7dccf06593cf3a6788dcb70bf12d26f7b7bf28)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hofstadter on January 13, 2017, 06:29:07 AM
Metro 2033 by dmitriii glukhovskii in the original russian
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2017, 10:50:54 AM
I gotta read Metro 2033 at an me point...

...also one of my favorite books ever was Paul Kennedy's Rise and Fall of the Great Powers - 25 years ago!!

Olde 💀
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: egg_salad on January 13, 2017, 10:58:43 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on January 12, 2017, 09:23:24 PM
The Destroyermen book 1 (https://www.amazon.com/Into-Storm-Destroyermen-Taylor-Anderson/dp/0451462378). Good first book, way less pulpy than the promo blurb sounds.

I am on book 6 right now.  They get somewhat cheesier as the series goes along, but it's not bad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 13, 2017, 06:34:56 PM
Quote from: egg_salad on January 13, 2017, 10:58:43 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on January 12, 2017, 09:23:24 PM
The Destroyermen book 1 (https://www.amazon.com/Into-Storm-Destroyermen-Taylor-Anderson/dp/0451462378). Good first book, way less pulpy than the promo blurb sounds.

I am on book 6 right now.  They get somewhat cheesier as the series goes along, but it's not bad.

Good to know. Thanks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 13, 2017, 09:15:39 PM
Isn't Destroyermen about the lizards ruling the Earth? Or am I mixing up my alternate history? (Different lizards from Turtledove's highly dull and silly Worldwar series.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on January 13, 2017, 09:32:58 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 13, 2017, 10:50:54 AM

...also one of my favorite books ever was Paul Kennedy's Rise and Fall of the Great Powers - 25 years ago!!


Yeah, I remember reading that around 1990 or so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: egg_salad on January 14, 2017, 02:16:29 PM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on January 13, 2017, 09:15:39 PM
Isn't Destroyermen about the lizards ruling the Earth? Or am I mixing up my alternate history? (Different lizards from Turtledove's highly dull and silly Worldwar series.)

Yes, a destroyer goes through a storm and ends up in an alternate timeline with dinosaurs and crap.  Much of the cheesiness comes from this.  Sometimes I like cheese, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2017, 10:54:17 PM
So, it's Martin Caidin's The Final Countdown + Brian Daley's Coramonde Duology + dinosaurs and lizardmen? (Plus, I guess, The Last Ship?)

Giggity!  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on January 14, 2017, 11:08:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 04, 2016, 12:10:45 PM
Wally I have been wanting a I read August 1914 for a long time. How is it?

I'm about 250 pages into the book and I like it. The first 65 pages was about describing some civilian characters and that was a bit of a chore to get through. But from page 66 or so on the book focuses on the Battle of Tannenberg exclusively from the Russian side of things with both fictional and historical characters (example: Samsanov) being included.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 16, 2017, 08:45:31 PM
Amazon had a sale (might still be doing it) on the James Bond Extended Series by Ian Fleming. I got the first four...never read any of them but the first is Casino Royale, and from what I can tell it seems to just be a repub of the old books...maybe? Always wanted to read 'em anyway.

Besides Casino Royale, there's Diamonds Are Forever, Moonraker, and I can't remember the fourth one offhand.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 17, 2017, 09:18:59 AM
Just started The Hidden War - A Russian Journalist's Account of the Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan by Artyom Borovik.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 17, 2017, 10:03:35 AM
I'm onto book 4 of the Expanse, Cibola Burn. This is a great series. Has that down to earth, working class in space feel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 17, 2017, 08:29:48 PM
^I am going to guess you watched the show on SyFy?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 18, 2017, 12:17:53 AM
Yep. I've followed the exact same pattern as GoT. Saw the first season, then got the books. I think there's more chance of the Expanse novels being finished though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 18, 2017, 07:02:37 AM
Yeah.  Martin is a glacially slow writer.  Plus, he looks like an old Sam Tarly.  Not a winning combination.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 18, 2017, 08:07:57 AM
Thanks for the hint, MetalDog.

You're right about George R. R. Martin. I doubt he will live long enough to finish the Ice and Fire series.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi67.tinypic.com%2F23ku1wn.jpg&hash=ba81f9b15aa69079c2677e3f568980e5210a061c)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 18, 2017, 07:03:51 PM
My pleasure, Greybriar.  I hope the next book, Winds of Winter, isn't the hot mess the last book was.  It's my understanding that he's pretty close to finishing this one up.  If you want some inside information on Martin, he spends a fair amount of time on his LiveJournal blog, Not A Blog:

http://grrm.livejournal.com/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 19, 2017, 12:36:24 AM
I hope you're right and Winds of Winter comes out soon. According to Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Song_of_Ice_and_Fire), it has been over five years since A Dance with Dragons was released. His schedule must be pretty full with movies, games, ball games, book signings, etc., going on. He must not have much time left for writing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 19, 2017, 07:31:44 AM
Plus Martin is almost 70 and severely overweight. He's about due for a 'death juuuuust before finishing the last book' kind of womp-wommmmp fan event.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 19, 2017, 07:44:06 AM
SHUT UP
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 19, 2017, 03:32:52 PM
GRRM dropping dead might be the best thing to happen for his series -- WoT fans basically agree the final three books are a solid and worthwhile finale, but I don't think many of us would have confidence they'd have been that good with Robert Jordan himself writing them. Knife of Dreams (Book 11) was a major improvement and generally a good return to form, but still showed signs that RJ might yet return to meandering bloat. A talented journeyman who loves the series and who is dedicated to finishing out strong, could very well be the way for ASoIaF to putt home.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 19, 2017, 03:38:45 PM
Just re-read Magician: Apprentice by Raymond Feist. Such a great book and an easy read. Got through it in a couple days. Probably end up reading the series again now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 19, 2017, 06:19:29 PM
Quote from: mirth on January 19, 2017, 03:38:45 PM
Just re-read Magician: Apprentice by Raymond Feist. Such a great book and an easy read. Got through it in a couple days. Probably end up reading the series again now.

Some of my all time favorite books, mirth.  And they were based off his home brew D&D campaign.  I  re-read them a couple of years ago.  Always enjoy them.


Quote from: JasonPratt on January 19, 2017, 03:32:52 PM
GRRM dropping dead might be the best thing to happen for his series -- WoT fans basically agree the final three books are a solid and worthwhile finale, but I don't think many of us would have confidence they'd have been that good with Robert Jordan himself writing them. Knife of Dreams (Book 11) was a major improvement and generally a good return to form, but still showed signs that RJ might yet return to meandering bloat. A talented journeyman who loves the series and who is dedicated to finishing out strong, could very well be the way for ASoIaF to putt home.


Ahhhhhh, Jason.  Here we are again.  While I agree that getting the books out faster and with less bloat than Jordan helped get them out in a more timely manner, WoT went off the rails back around book....1?  Or 2 maybe?  I would like to speak up for the trees that were murdered to print that verbose shite.  They aren't coming back and being dead didn't help make the series any better.  Summing up: I disagree with your assertion that death may help Martin's series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: egg_salad on January 19, 2017, 08:12:04 PM
Quote from: mirth on January 19, 2017, 03:38:45 PM
Just re-read Magician: Apprentice by Raymond Feist. Such a great book and an easy read. Got through it in a couple days. Probably end up reading the series again now.

I loved these books too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 19, 2017, 10:54:04 PM
Just finished The Final Day.  It the third book that started with One Second After by William Forstchen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 20, 2017, 08:25:53 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on January 19, 2017, 10:54:04 PM
Just finished The Final Day.  It the third book that started with One Second After by William Forstchen.

I might try to read that again. I do enjoy a good post-apocalyptic novel. Can't recall why I stopped reading it the first time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 20, 2017, 09:30:15 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 19, 2017, 06:19:29 PM
Some of my all time favorite books, mirth.  And they were based off his home brew D&D campaign.  I  re-read them a couple of years ago.  Always enjoy them.

Yeah, I knew that. Pretty cool.

A lot of his ideas for Kelewan and the Tsurani came from this -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empire_of_the_Petal_Throne
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on January 20, 2017, 09:34:25 AM
The Order of the Death's Head: The Story of Hitler's SS by Heinz Höhne.

Interesting but dreadfully, tear-jerkingly dry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 20, 2017, 09:59:38 AM
Quote from: mirth on January 19, 2017, 03:38:45 PM
Just re-read Magician: Apprentice by Raymond Feist. Such a great book and an easy read. Got through it in a couple days. Probably end up reading the series again now.

Never heard of it. I was pretty much anti-fantasy books in high school/college. But a main character named Pug? I think I might read this.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 20, 2017, 01:35:43 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 19, 2017, 06:19:29 PM
Summing up: I disagree with your assertion that death may help Martin's series.

Well, I suppose it's possible it could help RJ's series and yet not help Martin's -- not much possible to help a festering, throbbing pink tower, yo.  >:D

But for the sake of GRRM's fans I'm willing to hope for the best.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2017, 02:17:01 PM
OJsDad is The Final Day the finale to the series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 20, 2017, 02:27:51 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 20, 2017, 02:17:01 PM
OJsDad is The Final Day the finale to the series?

Yes. I could see where there could be more books set further out, but i think hes told the story he wanted.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2017, 06:25:18 PM
Thanks. I read the first one, set to read the second one, didn't know there was a third.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 20, 2017, 06:41:11 PM
The third just came out a week or two ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2017, 09:38:18 PM
Gotcha.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hofstadter on January 23, 2017, 10:57:00 PM
Metro 2033 is aids
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 24, 2017, 10:41:24 AM
Pardon?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 24, 2017, 01:11:00 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 24, 2017, 10:41:24 AM
Pardon?

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 24, 2017, 05:44:15 PM
Goddamn I remember that. Olde.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 26, 2017, 10:01:47 AM
Yesterday, I *finally* finished The Flame Bearer, the most recent entry in Bernard Cornwell's The Saxon Chronicles.  While I've liked every book in the series thus far (to a greater or lesser degree), I found this to be his best one in quite some time, with a highly satisfactory ending. 

While both this novel and the previous one (Warriors of the Storm) definitely favor the fictional aspects of "historical fiction" over the historical (even more so than his usual), I highly enjoyed them even so.  As if to make up for the lack of historicity, Cornwell seems to have picked up the pace (story-wise) -- it had admittedly been dragging a bit in books 6-8 -- as well as giving us interesting new characters...or more often, finally fleshing out existing ones. 

I'm definitely looking forward to more books in this series.  However, it seems quite impossible that Cornwell will be able to finish, given the guy is 72.  :( 



Have how begun reading At the Sign of Triumph, the most recent (and apparently final?) entry in David Weber's Safehold series. 




Quote from: MetalDog on January 19, 2017, 06:19:29 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 19, 2017, 03:32:52 PM
GRRM dropping dead might be the best thing to happen for his series -- WoT fans basically agree the final three books are a solid and worthwhile finale, but I don't think many of us would have confidence they'd have been that good with Robert Jordan himself writing them. Knife of Dreams (Book 11) was a major improvement and generally a good return to form, but still showed signs that RJ might yet return to meandering bloat. A talented journeyman who loves the series and who is dedicated to finishing out strong, could very well be the way for ASoIaF to putt home.


Ahhhhhh, Jason.  Here we are again.  While I agree that getting the books out faster and with less bloat than Jordan helped get them out in a more timely manner, WoT went off the rails back around book....1?  Or 2 maybe?  I would like to speak up for the trees that were murdered to print that verbose shite.  They aren't coming back and being dead didn't help make the series any better.  Summing up: I disagree with your assertion that death may help Martin's series.
Given that the books have been written by Martin thus far, his death couldn't help but improve the series.  O:-) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 26, 2017, 02:45:17 PM
I'm afraid to delve deeply into Cornwell. My wallet can't handle it. I've read one of his books years ago (can't remember which) and enjoyed it. And I have his Agincourt in my to-read pile.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 26, 2017, 07:03:38 PM
Watched the first two episodes of The Last Kingdom.  Very good stuff.  Probably get one or two more in this evening.


Quote from: Martok on January 26, 2017, 10:01:47 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 19, 2017, 06:19:29 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 19, 2017, 03:32:52 PM
GRRM dropping dead might be the best thing to happen for his series -- WoT fans basically agree the final three books are a solid and worthwhile finale, but I don't think many of us would have confidence they'd have been that good with Robert Jordan himself writing them. Knife of Dreams (Book 11) was a major improvement and generally a good return to form, but still showed signs that RJ might yet return to meandering bloat. A talented journeyman who loves the series and who is dedicated to finishing out strong, could very well be the way for ASoIaF to putt home.


Ahhhhhh, Jason.  Here we are again.  While I agree that getting the books out faster and with less bloat than Jordan helped get them out in a more timely manner, WoT went off the rails back around book....1?  Or 2 maybe?  I would like to speak up for the trees that were murdered to print that verbose shite.  They aren't coming back and being dead didn't help make the series any better.  Summing up: I disagree with your assertion that death may help Martin's series.

Given that the books have been written by Martin thus far, his death couldn't help but improve the series.  O:-) 


You coming to Origins this year?  I have something for you if you do.   :knuppel2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on January 27, 2017, 07:48:55 AM
^  Is it a pet dragon??  Please say yes!  :D 




Quote from: Gusington on January 26, 2017, 02:45:17 PM
I'm afraid to delve deeply into Cornwell. My wallet can't handle it. I've read one of his books years ago (can't remember which) and enjoyed it. And I have his Agincourt in my to-read pile.
Can't say I blame you.  It's one reason why I've ended up mostly focusing on just the one series (and even that's still not exactly cheap). 


Agincourt is a solid read; one of his few standalone novels (although it does reference people/places from earlier works).  I felt it did a decent job of placing the reader in the both English and French mindsets, especially as regards to prior to/during the battle. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 27, 2017, 11:06:26 AM
^That's what I need, thank you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 28, 2017, 01:05:01 PM
About to start One Soldier's War by Arkady Babchenko, about the Chechen Wars 1994-2009.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 31, 2017, 05:16:59 AM
The Iron King by Maurice Druon. It is the first book in The Accursed Kings series (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Accursed_Kings).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 31, 2017, 07:36:28 AM
Been reading something called Omega Rising (https://www.amazon.com/Omega-Rising-Joshua-Dalzelle/dp/1484016327/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485865094&sr=8-1&keywords=omega+rising). It has a compelling premise -

QuoteJason Burke was a man hiding from himself in a small cabin high in the American Rocky Mountains when his simple, quiet life was shattered one night by what he first assumed was an aviation mishap. But when he investigates the crash, what he finds will yank him out of his self-imposed exile and thrust him into a world he could have never imagined. He suddenly finds himself trapped on a damaged alien spacecraft and plunged into a universe of interstellar crime lords and government conspiracies, along the way meeting strange new friends... and enemies. As he struggles to find his way back home he is inexorably drawn deeper into a world where one misstep could mean his death. Or worse. He desperately wants to get back to Earth, but it may be the end for him. ... or is it just the beginning?

It's one of those books that's just good enough to keep my attention, though now that I'm more than halfway through it I feel like I'm obligated to finish it. The author is driving me insane because he has NO idea what a semicolon is, and is separating ideas with commas instead. Plus, mispellings (such as "he wondered down the hall" - ugh) make me feel like I'm reading fanfic and not an actual, real author's work. I hate that feeling.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 31, 2017, 08:09:42 AM
Semicolons are for pussies. Just write separate sentences!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 31, 2017, 09:35:42 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 31, 2017, 08:09:42 AM
Semicolons are for pussies. Just write separate sentences!

So says the semicolon hater. :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on January 31, 2017, 09:56:54 AM
I completed Lord's Pearl Harbor book, "Day of Infamy." 

It read like a Turtledove book with real people.  Very light on any planning/strategy and very heavy on random US people who were impacted.  It did capture the chaos and confusion of the response and aftermath.

It was a $1.99 Kindle deal.  This was not as strong as Incredible Victory (Midway).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on January 31, 2017, 11:46:12 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 31, 2017, 08:09:42 AM
Semicolons are for pussies; just write separate sentences!

Fixed that for you. ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on January 31, 2017, 11:47:00 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on January 31, 2017, 11:46:12 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 31, 2017, 08:09:42 AM
Semicolons are for pussies; just write separate sentences!

Fixed that for you. ;)

:DD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 31, 2017, 11:51:48 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 31, 2017, 08:09:42 AM
Semicolons are for pussies; just write separate sentences!

FtfCRAP, NINJA'D BY GB!  :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 31, 2017, 06:55:14 PM
For realz, semicolons are like celery as well as like underwear on Star.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 01, 2017, 04:11:37 PM
 Knights of the Sea - The True Story of the Boxer and the Enterprise and the War of 1812
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 01, 2017, 09:35:39 PM
The Dark Side of the Enlightenment: Wizards, Alchemists, and Spiritual Seekers in the Age of Reason by John V. Fleming
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 01, 2017, 10:00:53 PM
^Wow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 01, 2017, 10:23:03 PM
Knew you'd be the first to reply ;)  Jumped out at me in the library when I returned a book on wars of liberation. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 02, 2017, 10:20:02 AM
How is it so far?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 02, 2017, 07:18:52 PM
Only about 20 pages in.  You can definitely tell he was an English professor at an Ivy League school.  He liberally sprinkles 50 cent words in all he writes.  He's giving some background on the Enlightenment and what it was.  There are chapters on three individuals, Valentine Greatrakes, a.k.a. the Stroker, Count Cagliostro and Julie de Krudener.  I have to admit, I've heard of none of them.  There are also chapters on the Convulisionists, the Rosicrusians, the Freemasons, and the Three Occult Arts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 02, 2017, 07:50:07 PM
Wow indeed. I'll have to add that to the pile on the virtual night table. I've been meaning to get back into a DaVinci Code escapist frame of mind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 02, 2017, 08:46:56 PM
Seems very high brow for me...have you read The Magic Circle of Rudolf II by Peter Marshall, MD? If you like the above, you'll certainly like this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 02, 2017, 09:00:37 PM
Never heard of it, Gus.  I'll give it a look though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 02, 2017, 10:09:57 PM
Love that book. If you would like, I can ship you my hard copy. Also just found this, you may like it:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/0300194099/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 02, 2017, 10:12:33 PM
Appreciate the offer.  Might even take you up on it.  But let me finish Fleming's book first.  How I pick what I read from the public library really has no rhyme or reason beyond, "It looked interesting at the time."  Could be I don't even finish it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 14, 2017, 08:19:33 AM
Just started Tank Warfare on the Eastern Front 1941-1942 - Schwerpunkt - by Robert Forczyk.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 14, 2017, 10:24:17 AM
Started reading "A History of Scotland" a month or so ago, and boy the author wasn't kidding. He starts about a billion years ago and goes into plate tetonics and landform and glaciers carving out the land and eventually into early people/animal migration.  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Emeraldlis on February 14, 2017, 10:33:58 AM
^^^ hahahahaha  ;D and the thing is , Scotland probably doesn't even look like that anymore , and the Scottish people of that time are more than likely Irish now !!!!! But hey , you could maybe lecture as a sideline about all things Scottish , new string to your bow   :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 14, 2017, 12:37:37 PM
Just finished Kershaw's Brief History of the Roman Empire (https://smile.amazon.com/Brief-History-Roman-Empire-ebook/dp/B00OGUPET2), recommended by someone upthread, which focuses on the Emperors (and so is really more their history with contextual events), and stops with the final Western Emperor. I've mentioned before upthread how much I liked it ("delightful" is not a word I throw around lightly), but it turns into quite a chaotic slog in the final chapters. To be fair, this could be expected! I have a couple of unread books on the Byzantines I can segue into from there, not counting a few unread medieval series which pick up from around this point.


Also a few days ago I finished Volume 6 of Paulides' Missing 411 series. This one, on "Hunters", is I think the shortest book so far, and is also the first book to feature more than three or four case repeats from earlier books. I haven't personally counted them (and he doesn't mark them consistently or easily make a way to tally them), but basically he has picked up many (maybe not all) hunting cases from prior volumes (up through number 4, since vol 5 was really about a related but distinctly separate phenomenon) to flesh out this entry. My loose impression is that more than two thirds, maybe more than three quarters, are still new entries, but I might be off, could be less than two thirds. Surely not half.

He also mentions briefly late in the book, in his entry on Texas, that while he originally thought he had so many Texas and Florida entries that they would constitute a book or two on their own (thus leaving them out of the first double-volume), he has eventually decided that most of those don't fit his criteria after all, and indeed that Texas and Florida feature far fewer events than he was expecting given their rural areas.

This suggests he's running short on new material, as would of course be expected eventually as he catches up on researching things. That doesn't bother me, but I'll repeat what I've said for the past two or three volumes: he should dedicate a volume to providing a context of normal and counterfactual examples. If kids less than 4 years old will be found less than 2 miles from their disappearance in mountainous terrain 95% of the time, what does the other 5% look like? (Are his entries the other 5%?!) If kids are found uphill sometimes in normal situations, what do those situations look like? If people are found from normal disappearances when dogs couldn't find them, what are those explanations and how do his cases differ? I know for a fact there are murder and abduction cases which seem like his collection at first but then turn out to be human-caused or mundane accidents: a discussion of that type of false positive case would be helpful.

Mom read part of the first book (and dropped it because it was too repetitive to be entertaining and was giving her nightmares!), and we've discussed our reservations about his approach. I'm fairly sure he's over-reaching at times about connections in various ways, such as when he talks about a few disastrous aircraft accidents during the searches: he acts like these are common and uncanny, but they're OBVIOUSLY quite rare considering how many aircraft of different kinds he reports helping with the searches, and they're OBVIOUSLY caused by bad weather during the searches. It's almost a miracle there aren't far more such accidents, really! Or again, from Vol 1 onward, he'll talk about how it seems like certain types of people disproportionately disappear like they're being selected. But in some cases their characteristics would help account for disappearance, and to me there seems to be a normal statistical spread. The only truly abnormal statistic is that almost all the missing are white, with a smattering of Mexicans and Asians, and even fewer black people and native tribals. But considering how many of those who disappear are involved in hobbies that require a larger than normal cash flow (in modern day examples), or in pioneering (in 19th century examples), that could be a normal side effect of social conditions in North America.

You can keep up with current events as he hears about them here: http://www.canammissing.com/current_events.html  Note that this ongoing list is not exclusive -- I know of at least two maybe three more cases (maybe more) that might qualify that Mom and I have heard about in the news since I started reading (and at least one, here in West TN, from Jan last year that definitely qualifies), and none are on this page.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 22, 2017, 05:17:51 PM
Just finishing off 'A Brief History of the War of Austrian Succession' before starting 'A Collision of Giants - The British Army During the War of Austrian Succession & Seven Years War in Europe 1740-1763'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2017, 06:29:56 PM
Just started Hitler's Jet Plane - The Me262 Story by Mano Ziegler.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 23, 2017, 02:36:51 PM
..my title is longer than your title.....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 23, 2017, 03:16:13 PM
And you personally experienced the events you are now reading about.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 23, 2017, 03:48:16 PM
But I'd forgotten such a lot of the details.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 23, 2017, 10:49:11 PM
Weren't you just beginning your life of retirement and doddering around the house at the beginning of the War of the Austrian Succession, Sir?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 24, 2017, 10:36:00 AM
I am retired and I can relate that 'doddering' is not an easy thing. First, there's a fine line between 'puttering', 'doddering', and just plain 'lazy-as-shit'. So you have to know where you're at with that. And then doddering involves less active involvement than true puttering, and more un-even wandering and aimless searching for things that you can't find, but are usually in plain sight in front of you. Doddering is also less socially accepted than 'puttering' but more so than 'lazy-as-shit'. And when people ask, you never admit to doddering, you say, "No, I was just 'puttering' around". Most people don't know the difference anyway. Hope this helps.  :nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 24, 2017, 10:40:23 AM
Not to be confused with 'pootling' or plain old ' just farting about'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 24, 2017, 10:47:52 AM
In Maine, we call it dubbin' around.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 24, 2017, 03:37:33 PM
Wey, nah man. Dubbin's the stuff yer clean yer hiking boots with.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 24, 2017, 07:00:37 PM
Here we don't clean our hiking boots. You hot house flower, you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 24, 2017, 07:36:37 PM
Redneck question: Why do you need special boots to 'hike' your leg? Can't you do that barefoot?  :idiot2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 25, 2017, 06:34:02 AM
You've been out in the sun without your hat on again, haven't you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 25, 2017, 10:21:24 AM
I always wear my hat out in the sun. It's a nice little tin-foil one with a pointed top. That way it reflects the sun and govt. microwaves at the same time.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 25, 2017, 04:23:11 PM
What about gamma rays?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 25, 2017, 05:51:32 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 25, 2017, 04:23:11 PM
What about gamma rays?

Keep them away from Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds. Just saying...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 25, 2017, 06:48:59 PM
That book about Chesty Puller that was recommended recently is a brilliant read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 25, 2017, 11:08:38 PM
I love Gamma Rays. They make you big and strong. And green. Slash Smash! It rhymes.  :clap:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 26, 2017, 03:05:14 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on February 25, 2017, 11:08:38 PM
Slash Smash! It rhymes.  :clap:

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 26, 2017, 10:26:40 PM
About to start The Fall of Berlin 1945 by Antony Beevor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 27, 2017, 07:01:02 AM
He's a truly outstanding author.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 27, 2017, 09:04:38 AM
Yes - Even the intro, the maps and the abbreviations sections are interesting. I read his Stalingrad about 15 years ago and its one of my favorite all time books. He elicits emotion that other writers can only aspire to. Beevor is right up there with Massie for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 27, 2017, 09:06:33 AM
Quote from: bob48 on February 27, 2017, 07:01:02 AM
He's a truly outstanding author.

+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 27, 2017, 09:57:39 AM
His books on the Ardennes Offensive and Spanish Civil War are both are well worth reading if you have not already done so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 27, 2017, 10:03:19 AM
I'm reading his Crete book currently. I also have the Spanish Civil War book. I started it but got sidetracked.

I read his Ardennes book a while back.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 27, 2017, 10:03:34 AM
I didn't know about his Spanish Civil War title until seeing it listed as in the Berlin book. Want to pick that up too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 27, 2017, 03:40:35 PM
I'm reading Instruments of Darkness by Alfred Price.  It took me a few years to track down a copy at a reasonable price but I finally got one a few months ago. 

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41KJ79CH16L.jpg)

It's about the history of electronic warfare from 1939-1945 and it focuses almost entirely on the night time air war between RAF Bomber Command and the Luftwaffe.   Lots of good tech stuff in there.  I find this stuff utterly fascinating.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 27, 2017, 03:42:10 PM
^cool!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 27, 2017, 03:51:21 PM
Ooh night fighters...sexy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on February 27, 2017, 10:10:33 PM
Started "Hidden Figures" after enjoying the movie. I've always been a space geek and it's an interesting view into the space program and the early '60s.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on February 27, 2017, 11:15:43 PM
Working through Lev Grossman's The Magicians series. Not sure if I like it or not.

The characters are mostly unlikable. The book has a tendency to meander at times (although I am thinking it was written this way).

I'm reading it as the author decided to throw Holden Caulfield into Hogwarts and then to Narnia...I might be off base...but that's my take so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 28, 2017, 06:58:51 AM
jamus, that was my experience as well.  I think I read the first two books and finally got tired of the whining, so I put it down.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 01, 2017, 03:37:55 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 27, 2017, 03:40:35 PM
I'm reading Instruments of Darkness by Alfred Price.  It took me a few years to track down a copy at a reasonable price but I finally got one a few months ago.

Ooooooooooooh! Note to self, wishlist that thing. Hm, it goes back at least as far as 1967 in its original publication, with a new edition coming out this year. Wonder if it's updated with new RAF vs Luft material along the way?  ???

Also, I'm curious what if anything he has to write about the Foo Fighter phenomenon.  :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 01, 2017, 04:38:14 PM
In my continuing project of reading 5 pages of 'study' books to 1 page of 'purely entertainment' books, I have gotten around at last to burning through Book 5 of the original Magic: the Gathering novels as a reward for my efforts at cleaning out my ginormous backlog of unread material.

This one, The Cursed Land by Teri McLaren, started a tad weak: Teri got the idea from somewhere that she desperately needed to start books like this in the middle of an exotic action scene with no context at all and develop the context along the way. I'm about half convinced this was a late addition or emendation of an earlier more coherent draft, because her command of grammar is flawless throughout the book except at one run-on sentence in this prologue scene where she jumps point-of-view confusingly. That looks like an editing artifact to me from adjusting the scene to be more punchy out of the gate.

That said, despite the clompy opening which settles out well enough eventually, I was highly impressed with her plot and effective characterizations while briskly moving through a surprisingly epic story in just under 300 pages -- but then, this author cut her teeth writing for the Dragonlance expanded universe material (and credits Tracey Hickman NEURON FAIL Margaret Weis for inspiring and helping her to get into the business).

This is the first of the original novels not set in (what eventually by novel 4 came to be known as) the world of Dominaria, and that's fine -- the original setting hadn't really been fleshed out yet anyway except as a convenient hodgepodge for material. But it not only has no connection at all to the previous plots (also fine), it baaarrreeelllly counts as a MTG story. There are connections to Planeswalking and mana usage, and green magic (also blue less obviously; black is briefly mentioned). But that's it. The fantasy staples are pretty D&D. It feels a lot like a story Teri had already largely written that she retro-fitted to be close enough to MTG to count. Which again is fine, even interesting in a way, but anyone coming to the book expecting more of the fanservice from the first four books could be disappointed. Amusingly, the promotional department finally got on the ball and synched the back cover to the plot with "Equinox" and "Cursed Land" cards, the former of which I've seen before in other old decks, the latter of which I think I own a couple from ye olde dayes. Their role in the story is so different from their card operation that the similarities are limited to both being "Equinoxes" and "Cursed Lands", but whatev: at least there's a proper plot tie-in again of some sort!

Not to spoil a plot literally 22 years oMG THE AGE IT BURRNNNNSSS MEEEEEEE, but as I'm reading the early novels I'm tracking the efforts of Wizards of the Coast (the game's publisher) to connect the novels to new deck sets being released. Since the previous trilogy ended up tying in (albeit loosely) to the artifact war between the brothers Urza and Mishra, the next step would seem to be The Dark leading into The Ice Age. This books reads a lot like a limited prototype of the Dark (and maybe also the Ice Age), except (1) there's no connection at all to the Brothers and their war (especially in how the Dark happens); and (2) there are no clear reference to cards from those sets (that I could recognize anyway, though I'm far from entirely knowledgeable about those sets having rarely gotten any cards from them).

The plot then: a cataclysmic Dark/Ice Age event is set off by a greedy ex-wizard instigating a family feud to gain access to this world's only line of mana which, unfortunately for everyone, was keeping this world properly spinning. With the link largely shattered, the exiled broken wizard can't escape the plane and people across the island of not-Scottish-Irenotland ;) are sundered into competing clans while their world teeters on the edge of extinction for five hundred years. The plot resolves this situation with quite a few twists and turns even into the final twenty pages, and while the resolution was telegraphed prophetically from the beginning Teri did a good job both hinting along the way at the coming resolution and deflecting expectations of the resolution. I'm not sure how much of the connection to Christian morality about forgiveness and salvation of enemies was intentional (certainly no theology per se along that line), but I appreciated it anyway.  O:-)

I thoroughly enjoyed my literary vacation with the book, and I've built up enough of a 5:1 surfeit that I should be able to get another one (maybe another two by the time I'm done with the next one) before going back to non-fiction reading -- but I'm already pretty sure there won't be a connection later to this book (which is fine, Terri ties up all the plot threads and foreshows a happy ever after).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 01, 2017, 06:27:51 PM
Wow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 01, 2017, 08:23:33 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs2.quickmeme.com%2Fimg%2F69%2F69fbf7240f42620c870bdc173856ead82781e930db2ac505e941931fc2c24ea1.jpg&hash=39d6c5ecb44a21968a47e18566cc20383f2350ff)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 01, 2017, 09:03:50 PM
'Escaladed'- when she takes off with the pool boy in her sugar daddy's caddy SUV.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on March 10, 2017, 04:53:10 PM
Just finished 1632 by John Ringo and starting the second book in the Ring of Fire series, 1633.  I've both of these first two before.  I definitely is not as good as books like Forstchen's Lost Regiment series or his One Second After book.  David Webers Safehold books are also a lot better.  In 1632, there's no struggle just to get the basics up and running.  No having to make decisions on what gets priority over something else.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 11, 2017, 05:43:46 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 26, 2017, 10:26:40 PM
About to start The Fall of Berlin 1945 by Antony Beevor.

I read that book last year.  Good book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 11, 2017, 06:05:07 PM
I just finished these two books:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FmErLDWE.jpg&hash=5b827ddbd95b99fb886823686f5ecd511be779c4)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FT48LBnG.jpg&hash=89799b355a3940b96983a947958808b7de4b069b)

War of the Rats is a story that's been done before in the book and movie Enemy at the Gates, so it was pretty familiar to me.  I thought War of the Rats was OK, but not spectacular.  The book spends a lot of time in character development, which I expected and wanted in a novel.  But I didn't find the German sniper's character very plausible, and I also didn't find the endgame very plausible either.

The Last Citadel was a bit better.  Again, there was a lot of character development, which I wanted, especially on the Russian side.  I've read about Kursk and Pokhorovka, but I wanted to see it from the soldiers' view, and I got some of that in the book.  The description of tank operations was interesting, but when I was done, I didn't find the story to be tight.  I guess it was enjoyable enough, and I've always found historical fiction to be a good way to learn.

Since we're talking about books -- I recently found out that I have privileges to the Pentagon library.  Nice!   :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2017, 09:52:45 PM
I enjoyed War of the Rats very much.

Almost done with the Fall of Berlin and its even better than Beevor's Stalingrad, if possible. It's a true work of art.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 12, 2017, 03:20:19 PM
Don't laugh, but I'm just now getting around to reading The Once and Future King by T.H. White for the first time.  Given it's pretty much considered the gold standard for modern Arthurian storytelling (and a benchmark for modern fantasy in general), I figured I should probably finally sit down and give it a go. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 12, 2017, 03:22:33 PM
The lesser known, Book of Merlyn is decent, too.  Once And Future King is pretty good.  I wish you happy reading.  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 12, 2017, 04:14:27 PM
Thanks MD!  Yeah, Book of Merlyn is also mentioned in the beginning, so I may have to check that out as well. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 04:34:52 PM
I finally got around to starting 'Crete' by Beevor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 12, 2017, 04:39:06 PM
^How is it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 04:49:00 PM
Excellent. I'm about half way through it, and its very illuminating. Its a campaign that I was pretty vague about, but as usual, Beevor covers it all in astounding detail and in a very readable way. Its also interesting in that Prince Phillip served on a destroyer in this campaign.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 12, 2017, 04:56:11 PM
Quote from: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 04:34:52 PM
I finally got around to starting 'Crete' by Beevor.

I'm about halfway through. Great read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 12, 2017, 05:01:01 PM
Beevor should be the Official Grogheads Author.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 12, 2017, 05:04:22 PM
Beevor or Max Hastings. Both are brilliant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 05:34:23 PM
Quote from: mirth on March 12, 2017, 04:56:11 PM
Quote from: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 04:34:52 PM
I finally got around to starting 'Crete' by Beevor.

I'm about halfway through. Great read.

Both sides made some incredible cock-ups.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 12, 2017, 05:37:54 PM
Quote from: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 05:34:23 PM
Quote from: mirth on March 12, 2017, 04:56:11 PM
Quote from: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 04:34:52 PM
I finally got around to starting 'Crete' by Beevor.

I'm about halfway through. Great read.

Both sides made some incredible cock-ups.

You ain't kidding. I just read about the 2nd drop on Maleme. Why Student thought it was okay to try and drop east of the Tavronitis is baffling. Just as baffling as pretty much everything the Brits did there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 06:36:51 PM
Plus its Freyberg's obsession with a sea landing, when all the evidence said 'no sea landing'. One good push at the airfield would have won the day. But hells teeth, the Cretan people were a ferocious lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 12, 2017, 06:43:28 PM
I think the Creatans were a bit fed up with invaders in general.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 12, 2017, 06:58:40 PM
Blame the Mycenaeans for souring the Cretans' opinions on invaders right from the get-go.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 12, 2017, 07:17:12 PM
I blame the Mycenaeans for a lot of things.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 12, 2017, 07:29:29 PM
It's all their fault. All of it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 12, 2017, 09:13:08 PM
What'd they ever do to you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 12, 2017, 10:38:05 PM
I think they peed in his Greece.  :DD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 13, 2017, 10:06:16 PM
I just finished "The Good Years" by Walter Lord.  It is a light US history of some major events from 1900 to 1914.

I'm currently reading "Lonely Vigil" about the Coast Watchers in the Solomons in WW2.

I've already read Incredible Victory and Day of Infamy.

He writes entertaining, light history that incorporate a lot of viewpoints of individuals from the time period. 
I may read "A Time to Stand" (the Alamo) and Miracle at Dunkirk.  Any opinions on these two if you have read them?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on March 14, 2017, 12:57:27 AM
I am enjoying reading The Royal Succession by Maurice Druon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 16, 2017, 09:47:29 AM
Just started, "Lee's Lost Dispatch and Other Civil War Controversies" by Philip Leigh. Great book so far-- lots to think about with some very good points from both sides.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 16, 2017, 02:51:53 PM
Finished Beevor's Fall of Berlin yesterday. Classic book. Just started Ghostland: American History in Haunted Places by Colin Dickey.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on March 16, 2017, 03:26:01 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 16, 2017, 02:51:53 PM
Finished Beevor's Fall of Berlin yesterday. Classic book.
I very much enjoyed that book too!

Putting down Solzhenitsyn's "August 1914" for a while. The first half of the book was pretty good with the Tannenberg battle.

Started Prit Buttar's "Collision of Empires: The War on the Eastern Front in 1914" a few nights ago and I'm liking it so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 16, 2017, 04:05:00 PM
Quote from: bob48 on March 12, 2017, 04:34:52 PM
I finally got around to starting 'Crete' by Beevor.

Read this a couple months ago and really enjoyed it as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 16, 2017, 04:49:51 PM
I finished it today. Some of the incident's, such as the capture of General Kreipe, are astounding.

Definitely I would rank this as one of his best books, an amazing mixture of bravery, brutality, and downright stupidity.

Also, if you've not already read it, I would recommend 'A Magnificent Disaster' by David Bennett.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 16, 2017, 05:13:24 PM
^Have you read Beevor's Berlin book?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 16, 2017, 05:13:49 PM
Not yet, but its on my list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 16, 2017, 05:32:52 PM
Read it, Sir. READ IT NOW!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 16, 2017, 05:37:44 PM
I'll try and shoe-horn it into my busy reading schedule :-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 16, 2017, 05:59:01 PM
Come on, Sir.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/WbheD0Y54pBPW/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 16, 2017, 06:14:21 PM
Read it, I will.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 16, 2017, 07:55:19 PM
You can thank me when you get that warm glow upon finishing the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 16, 2017, 08:02:26 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 16, 2017, 07:55:19 PM
You can thank me when you get that warm glow upon finishing the book.

It's a tad depressing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 17, 2017, 07:43:20 AM
Bawb can handle it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 17, 2017, 08:57:44 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 17, 2017, 07:43:20 AM
Bawb can handle it.

No doubt. I'm just not sure it's going to give him a warm glow when he's finished.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 17, 2017, 09:21:11 AM
I don't think any of them ever have, given the sombre nature of the subjects.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 17, 2017, 09:35:05 AM
The Berlin book is particularly grim. It's incredibly well written, but I found it a tough read at times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 17, 2017, 07:38:29 PM
The Stalingrad book had you all bright eyed and bushy tailed?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 18, 2017, 07:44:37 AM
Now that book was grim reading in parts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 18, 2017, 08:04:34 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 17, 2017, 07:38:29 PM
The Stalingrad book had you all bright eyed and bushy tailed?

Not so much. The Berlin book was even more grim though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 18, 2017, 12:17:12 PM
Grim-Fight in the hallway!!!  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 18, 2017, 01:54:20 PM
Stalingrad vs. Berlin...FIGHT!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 18, 2017, 01:59:34 PM
Hastings' Armageddon was equally tough, but equally brilliant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 18, 2017, 02:08:03 PM
That I haven't read yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 18, 2017, 02:12:49 PM
Highly recommended. Along with his Retribution which covers the end of the war in Japan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 18, 2017, 05:01:59 PM
I don't think I have read any of Hastings books at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 18, 2017, 05:19:53 PM
Quote from: mirth on March 18, 2017, 02:12:49 PM
Highly recommended. Along with his Retribution which covers the end of the war in Japan.

I've read both Armageddon and Retribution, and would recommend both.

I visited Japan last Fall.  The first base I stayed at was NAF Atsugi, which is where the first US forces landed in Japan after the surrender.  The description of that event in Retribution was pretty interesting.  After being locked in total war for four years, it would have taken a bit of courage to be the first plane to land in the middle of mainland Japan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 18, 2017, 10:07:02 PM
My Father was in the Navy in WW II on a destroyer. His ship was one of the first to sail into Tokyo Bay ahead of the USS Missouri. The Japanese were told to fly black flags from all their gun emplacements and I remember well him saying, in his best Navy-like voice, all the black flags looked like fleas on a dogs ass. I think that means there were a lot though I'm not an expert on dog asses or fleas. Glad it wasn't my job-- the whole 'first-in' business.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on March 19, 2017, 06:03:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 18, 2017, 05:01:59 PM
I don't think I have read any of Hastings books at all.
His Overlord book is brilliant as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 19, 2017, 08:31:30 PM
Speaking of the end of the war with Japan, I'm just finishing up Hornfischer's The Fleet at Flood Tide. He wrote Neptune's Inferno, Ship of Ghosts, and Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors , and this one is up to the standards of those excellent books. It covers the Marianas campaign and the decision to drop the atomic bomb, and how the two were linked.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 19, 2017, 08:51:09 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on March 19, 2017, 08:31:30 PM
It covers the Marianas campaign and the decision to drop the atomic bomb, and how the two were linked.

I have not (yet) read the book and I can already guess at one possible link... involving the letter 'K'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 20, 2017, 08:41:16 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on March 19, 2017, 06:03:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 18, 2017, 05:01:59 PM
I don't think I have read any of Hastings books at all.
His Overlord book is brilliant as well.

Agreed. The best book I've read on the Normandy campaign.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 20, 2017, 08:42:14 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on March 19, 2017, 08:31:30 PM
Speaking of the end of the war with Japan, I'm just finishing up Hornfischer's The Fleet at Flood Tide.

Outstanding book. Hornfischer is an excellent writer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 20, 2017, 10:11:53 AM
Quote from: mirth on March 20, 2017, 08:41:16 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on March 19, 2017, 06:03:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 18, 2017, 05:01:59 PM
I don't think I have read any of Hastings books at all.
His Overlord book is brilliant as well.

Agreed. The best book I've read on the Normandy campaign.

Whilst 'Overlord' is good, I thought that 'Decision in Normandy' by D'Este was better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 20, 2017, 10:20:28 AM
Quote from: bob48 on March 20, 2017, 10:11:53 AM
Quote from: mirth on March 20, 2017, 08:41:16 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on March 19, 2017, 06:03:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 18, 2017, 05:01:59 PM
I don't think I have read any of Hastings books at all.
His Overlord book is brilliant as well.

Agreed. The best book I've read on the Normandy campaign.

Whilst 'Overlord' is good, I thought that 'Decision in Normandy' by D'Este was better.

Decision in Normandy is also excellent. Rating one over the other comes down to a matter of personal preference.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 20, 2017, 10:29:13 AM
Agreed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 24, 2017, 11:24:55 AM
I finished Lord's book on the coastwatchers in the Solomons.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 25, 2017, 10:28:26 AM
Between Two Giants-- WWII in the Baltics by Prit Buttar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on March 25, 2017, 02:24:33 PM
Re-reading the Stormlight Archives by Brandon Sanderson to prep for the release of the 3rd book in the series this fall.

Also found out a new book of the Red Rising series is coming out. While not a huge fan of that series I'll probably read the new one regardless.

Also the endless wait for the next Dresden novel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on March 25, 2017, 04:42:08 PM
I'm about halfway through Endgame, book 7 of the Red Gambit series. This is alt-history done right.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 25, 2017, 09:02:54 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on March 25, 2017, 04:42:08 PM
I'm about halfway through Endgame, book 7 of the Red Gambit series. This is alt-history done right.

I've been eyeing this series. What makes it good?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on March 26, 2017, 12:01:16 AM
The author has done a huge amount of research and nails it. He gets the technology and tactics right plus the strategic stuff seems very plausible. The battles are pretty brutal too. The writing's not too bad to start with and it improves as the series continues. Book 7 was going to be the last one but he couldn't fit it all in so there's now going to be one more.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on March 26, 2017, 02:26:37 PM
Just got done reading Arthur C. Clarkes Superiority.  Short read you can find here;

http://www.mayofamily.com/RLM/txt_Clarke_Superiority.html
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 26, 2017, 05:41:29 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on March 26, 2017, 02:26:37 PM
Just got done reading Arthur C. Clarkes Superiority.  Short read you can find here;

http://www.mayofamily.com/RLM/txt_Clarke_Superiority.html

That's a great story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on March 26, 2017, 09:27:06 PM
Had you read that before Mirth.

For those of you that haven't, it's a very short story, maybe 3 pages if it was in paper back book format. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 26, 2017, 09:29:31 PM
I had read it before. Couple different times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 26, 2017, 10:04:52 PM
Quote from: Pinetree on March 26, 2017, 12:01:16 AM
The author has done a huge amount of research and nails it. He gets the technology and tactics right plus the strategic stuff seems very plausible. The battles are pretty brutal too. The writing's not too bad to start with and it improves as the series continues. Book 7 was going to be the last one but he couldn't fit it all in so there's now going to be one more.

Thanks! Need to check this out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on March 27, 2017, 05:44:32 AM
Quote from: mirth on March 26, 2017, 05:41:29 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on March 26, 2017, 02:26:37 PM
Just got done reading Arthur C. Clarkes Superiority.  Short read you can find here;

http://www.mayofamily.com/RLM/txt_Clarke_Superiority.html

That's a great story.

+1 I had never read that before.

Better is the enemy of good. - Engineer's creed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 27, 2017, 06:03:59 AM
After Bob mentioning it, I am re-reading Carlos D'Este's Decision in Normandy, which I had forgotten I own in hardcover.  :crazy2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 27, 2017, 06:38:46 AM
 :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on March 27, 2017, 07:04:54 AM
http://www.oregonlive.com/books/index.ssf/2017/03/tides_jonathan_white_review.html

Tides is really very interesting.  Seeing how mankind, including savants like Isaac Newton, have tried to understand the nature and mechanisms of Tides is actually a great story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 28, 2017, 08:04:06 AM
Anyone here read The Historian? I am thinking of reading that next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 28, 2017, 09:26:22 AM
Yeah. I have read it. Very spooky indeed. Gave me the chills a couple of times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 28, 2017, 12:34:14 PM
Well that settles it. Good enough for you Sir is more than adequate for me. Was it a quick read? My hardback copy is 600+ pages but if it's good I don't mind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 28, 2017, 12:48:19 PM
Once I started getting into it, I couldn't put it down.

If you read it in a room by yourself, I guarantee you'll end up in a chair which does not have a door or window behind it......
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 28, 2017, 12:49:25 PM
Oh dear...now I gotta read it 💀
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on March 28, 2017, 12:50:47 PM
Mwhahahahaha >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 28, 2017, 12:54:03 PM
I am titillated!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 28, 2017, 09:16:06 PM
Officially have begun The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 03, 2017, 08:08:18 AM
So, in accordance with my continuing 1:5 plan, where I work in 1 page of strictly "fun" reading for 5 pages of "research/study" reading (also sometimes fun), I recently finished Mark Sumner's The Prodigal Sorcerer, the next book in the very-loose-series of original Magic: the Gathering novels published by Harper-Prism -- basically the books before Wizards of the Coast (MtG's ip owner) took more direct control of the intellectual property to restart the series in a much more continuity-building fashion.

That's an especially important qualifier in this case, because this story has even fewer pretended connections to MtG than its predecessor The Cursed Land. That book, which served as a sort of prototype to "the Dark" storyline (a catastrophe plunges the world into hanging onto a thin thread of existence with the sun obscured), might have been pretty clearly an independent story originally with some MtG elements tacked onto the fringes, but it still had mana and some colored magic and Planeswalkers. This story reduces the MtG connections to a few cursory nods to famous artifact cards (classically famous now) which don't even get used in the story. I'd bet a Coke that the word "mana", nor even the concept of it, is never used in the story once.

But like the previous novel, the story is quite good! -- so, unless you're the type of person who insists a MtG novel be about, you know, MtG (and you're perfectly in your rights to insist on that since the story is marketing itself to fans of MtG as a selling point), then you'll probably like it. Even if the titular prodigal sorcerer, though plot-important, isn't a main character, and doesn't behave at all like the card (either in personality or ability), and only gets around to looking like the card at the end of the story for a few scenes in a way (literally a "fashion" even) that's completely superficial.

As an aside, for those who recall me tracking this issue, of the two MtG cards featured on the back, one is of course the Prodigal Sorcerer (with its text largely obscured, probably by an accident of design but conveniently in this case). What's the other card?

A swamp.

One of the five basic lands. That's it. Because there's a swamp in the story.  L:-) The cover-art marketing for this series so far is ludicrous. The front cover is even funnier, because obviously the artist asked what the sentient reptilian race in the story is supposed to look like, and got a note that said they have traits of snakes and iguanas and lizards and geckos and, uh, those things like alligators with the long snouts I guess. (Gharials.) So the artist simply put all those animals in clothes standing around separately in the background!

I did say the novel itself was quite good, right? The goofiness of various marketing factors shouldn't be allowed to obscure this (even though fun to talk about). It isn't especially action packed, so again readers insisting on that will be disappointed; but for a short book (309 physically small pages with relatively large font) it's packed instead with a colorful cultural/political plot. The big betrayals can be seen developing long before they strike, but the author seems to realize he can expect experienced readers to pre-plot this and so writes up to their expectations rather than trying to trick them. The story isn't nearly as grimdark as the first four books, or even as the previous one, although a rape threat develops toward the end (kind of out of plot nowhere though it makes sense in context). And the author takes advantage of a situation to throw a final-third twist on reader expectations about a developing romance (not related to the rape threat, btw.) There's a drug-addiction plot element, too.

Without going too far into spoilers, the setup is that a magical research institution has set up a magical wall with a large diameter around their tower to keep threats from marching armies into the area to loot their gear (since they aren't combat mages at all). This wall is porous and completely unharmful: all it does is radically slow down people (and only living creatures, maybe only sentient living creatures) passing through it, so that anyone on the other side can easily dispatch them.

Inside the magewall, are three races of humans, elves (this book's Elves Are Different), and the aforementioned lizardfolk, who would normally have little to do with each other but now for several generations they've been forced to interact more than they'd prefer. With increasing hostility and resentment.

The book starts with a climactic battle led by a human revolutionary who honestly and truly just wants everyone in the land to live in peace, and who seeks out help from the institute to take the one large city of the region (largely inhabited by the Varishino, the lizardfolk) without any loss of life or harm to anyone. He receives this help from the prodigal sorcerer of the title, over-against worry from his fellows about interfering, and this sets off the story per se. (This isn't much of a spoiler, since all this happens in the prologue chapter(s)!) The new king now has to navigate turbulent political and socio-cultural waters, trying to make peace among the three peoples, while one of the much larger nations outside the wall attempts to destabilize the situation for a convenient invasion -- they live in a mostly swampy area (thus the basic land card on the back cover) and need better land to live on, so their concerns are understandable, but their radical lack of resources affects their cultural expectations, too.

I enjoyed the book a lot, and keeping in mind my provisional qualifications I gladly recommend it.

Next up in the series will be Ashes of the Sun, eventually: I'll have more than 1500 pages reckoned up again soon.  O0 :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 03, 2017, 05:46:50 PM
Uh...wut?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 03, 2017, 05:48:19 PM
I know what I'm not reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 03, 2017, 05:50:28 PM
 :buck2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on April 04, 2017, 05:14:00 AM
I'm reading Kenobi: Star Wars Legends. Good so far but I'm starting to hope the plot picks up soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Nefaro on April 05, 2017, 09:31:43 PM
Quote from: vyshka on February 19, 2016, 02:32:23 AM
Finished up The Innovators and quickly read Jim Butcher's first Dresden Files book Storm Front. Currently reading his 2nd book Fool Moon, and Ann Leckie's Ancillary Justice. Waiting to be read is The 3-Body Problem by Cixin Liu.



Finally got around to picking up a couple Dresden Files books, after having them on my wish list for years. 

A couple softbacks were going for half price, so I snatched them.  Storm Front (#1) and Grave Peril (#3). 

Saw people say that the first book isn't the best in the series.  So figured I'd read at least two or three for a start & keep an eye out for a discount #2 in the meantime.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 06, 2017, 01:56:21 PM
I finally started into my copy of Maximilian Uriarte's graphic novel Terminal Lance: The White Donkey today.  I'm guessing it'll be an interesting read...and hopefully an enlightening one, as well. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 15, 2017, 02:47:33 PM
Finished The Historian...damn fine book and one that inspires me to write one similar, one day.

Started the graphic novel 1441 AD - Trail of Steel by Marcos Mateu-Mestre.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on April 15, 2017, 10:01:00 PM
Has anyone read Thrawn yet?

IMHO opinion he's one of the more interesting Empire characters. Not every member of the Empire can be completely braindead...although they try.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 16, 2017, 10:59:08 AM
IIRC mirth did.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 20, 2017, 03:39:49 AM
Quote from: jamus34 on April 15, 2017, 10:01:00 PM
Has anyone read Thrawn yet?

IMHO opinion he's one of the more interesting Empire characters. Not every member of the Empire can be completely braindead...although they try.
That reminds me.  Must order Thrawn and David Weber's Shadow of Victory from Barnes & Noble.  I have a gift card burning a hole in my pocket.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 20, 2017, 12:15:12 PM
Just started Backpacking with Dracula by Leif Pettersen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 20, 2017, 12:18:26 PM
William Tecumseh Sherman: In the Service of My Country

https://www.amazon.com/William-Tecumseh-Sherman-Service-Country/dp/0393241572/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 20, 2017, 12:51:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 15, 2017, 02:47:33 PM
Finished The Historian...damn fine book and one that inspires me to write one similar, one day.

Started the graphic novel 1441 AD - Trail of Steel by Marcos Mateu-Mestre.

:bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 20, 2017, 01:01:43 PM
You were not fibbing, Sir. Took me two weeks to finish. And at ~650 pages that is no mean feat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 24, 2017, 05:28:09 PM
I'm just finishing one of my periodic reads of LotR, which I first read in 1967(ish). This must be at least the 12th time I've read it, but it never gets old.

Next up, 'The Franco-Prussian War' volumes 1 & 2 by H.M.Hozier. Kindle downloads for just £0.99 each. I already have his book on the Seven Weeks War which is very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 24, 2017, 05:30:12 PM
^Any recommendations on the Thirty Years War? I ask this periodically and there never seems to be anything quite user friendly out there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 24, 2017, 05:33:55 PM
Yes, but its quite hard going in places, but very informative. 'The Thirty Years War Complete' by Friedrich Schiller.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 24, 2017, 05:56:15 PM
Sounds intimidating. I guess I shouldn't be surprised there is no Thirty Years War for Dummies.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 24, 2017, 06:39:55 PM
I pre-ordered Aliens: Bug Hunt about a month back and forgot about it, until it uploaded to my Kindle a few days ago. It's a collection of short stories about the Alien universe, with a decided slant towards Colonial Marines. If you're a fan of Aliens in particular, you'll like this book. I've read the first story and while it was somewhat predictable, it was still enjoyable.

I also finished My Life in the Red Army by Fred Virski. Not a bad book, but I wonder how much of it is fiction and truth. There's way too many coincidences in it and the conversations are far too clear (sort of like Forgotten Soldier and Soldat)...and he shirked most of his duty, but I couldn't really blame him considering the idiocy that was the Red Army. It was also very vague on training. Still, it was a decent book for the price ($2.99).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 24, 2017, 06:42:02 PM
You drunk ordering shit again/still?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 24, 2017, 07:45:37 PM
Quote from: mirth on April 24, 2017, 06:42:02 PM
You drunk ordering shit again/still?

LOL nope...I hardly ever buy books. When I do they're usually 2.99 or cheaper, on sale. This one was Aliens, though, so I had to do it even if it meant waiting a few weeks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on April 25, 2017, 05:55:09 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 24, 2017, 05:56:15 PM
Sounds intimidating. I guess I shouldn't be surprised there is no Thirty Years War for Dummies.

It's well worth the effort.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 25, 2017, 06:30:15 AM
That's what she said. I think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on April 25, 2017, 09:14:58 AM
Thirty Years War is a tough good-read to find. Most people consider it too boring but not me. Lots of interesting characters and events. I get confused over the city and region names a lot though. Also the rulers are hard for me to keep straight( not a pun).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on April 25, 2017, 09:40:35 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 24, 2017, 05:30:12 PM
^Any recommendations on the Thirty Years War? I ask this periodically and there never seems to be anything quite user friendly out there.

The Thirty Years War (Illustrated) Kindle Edition (https://www.amazon.com/Thirty-Years-War-Illustrated-ebook/dp/B00E1VU8C4/ref=pd_cp_351_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=E5RWYM3NK9ZGRYTJQW9P) by Samuel Gardner, written in 1912. As light as it gets but no lighter O0

Schiller's book is available for free as a Kindle edition, while this one is a whopping 1.23. No reason to start with both and to see where it goes

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 25, 2017, 01:29:29 PM
Thanks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on April 25, 2017, 03:41:49 PM
Snow Crash right now.

I also have The Years of Rice and Salt on deck.

Anxiously awaiting the release of Stormlight book 3
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 25, 2017, 05:05:00 PM
I read The Years of Rice and Salt a long time ago...I enjoyed it. Long book by page count but it goes by quickly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 25, 2017, 08:30:07 PM
I've tried several times to get into Snow Crash. My most recent time I got up to a part where the protagonist (literally, which you'll get if you've read it, lol) had a very...long...conversation about religion with an AI. It went on and on and on for pages upon pages and just bored the crap out of me. That book really got its hooks into me early, but it went downhill from there. Does it get better, anyone that's read it?

Doesn't beat Ready Player One - that book is an absolute and total treat for anyone that's got some 80s nostalgia in them - D&D, video games, movies, music, you name it, that book is like crack.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on April 25, 2017, 08:36:58 PM
Ready Player One is probably the most fun novel I've read in some time. Not the best, simply the most fun. Of course it doesn't hurt that the 80's was totally my era   8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 25, 2017, 08:38:00 PM
Quote from: Steelgrave on April 25, 2017, 08:36:58 PM
Ready Player One is probably the most fun novel I've read in some time. Not the best, simply the most fun. Of course it doesn't hurt that the 80's was totally my era   8)

+ 1,000  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 26, 2017, 01:13:15 AM
Am currently re-reading The Iron Lance, the first novel in Stephen R. Lawhead's The Celtic Crusades trilogy.  His portrayal of the early/middle Medieval era feels a bit more...high-browed?...than Bernard Cornwell's take on the period, but I still really enjoy it. 




Quote from: bob48 on April 24, 2017, 05:28:09 PM
I'm just finishing one of my periodic reads of LotR, which I first read in 1967(ish). This must be at least the 12th time I've read it, but it never gets old.
Agreed about it never getting old.  I was just thinking a couple days ago that I'm about due for my annual re-reading of the trilogy (along with The Hobbit).  It's something I always look forward to. 




Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 25, 2017, 08:30:07 PM
I've tried several times to get into Snow Crash. My most recent time I got up to a part where the protagonist (literally, which you'll get if you've read it, lol) had a very...long...conversation about religion with an AI. It went on and on and on for pages upon pages and just bored the crap out of me. That book really got its hooks into me early, but it went downhill from there. Does it get better, anyone that's read it?
Yes, it definitely gets better. 

Once you get through the slow spots (all of Stephenson's novels have them), I think you'll find it's well worth having done so.  That's admittedly not the case for all of Stephenson's books, but Snow Crash is better paced than most of his work. 



Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 25, 2017, 08:30:07 PM
Doesn't beat Ready Player One - that book is an absolute and total treat for anyone that's got some 80s nostalgia in them - D&D, video games, movies, music, you name it, that book is like crack.
Yeah, that was a great read!  Definitely a page-turner. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on April 26, 2017, 05:14:36 AM
Quote from: Steelgrave on April 25, 2017, 08:36:58 PM
Ready Player One is probably the most fun novel I've read in some time. Not the best, simply the most fun. Of course it doesn't hurt that the 80's was totally my era   8)
Ready Player One is one of my go to books to read and I don't even own it, I borrow it from the library but will grab at some point.

That said you can see where Cline got a lot of his inspiration from this and Neuromancer which is still the benchmark to me.

Most younger people who have read RPO that I have talked too usually complain it's overly geeky but don't get half the references.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on April 26, 2017, 07:22:44 AM
Quote from: Banzai_Cat on April 25, 2017, 08:30:07 PM
I've tried several times to get into Snow Crash. My most recent time I got up to a part where the protagonist (literally, which you'll get if you've read it, lol) had a very...long...conversation about religion with an AI. It went on and on and on for pages upon pages and just bored the crap out of me. That book really got its hooks into me early, but it went downhill from there. Does it get better, anyone that's read it?

Doesn't beat Ready Player One - that book is an absolute and total treat for anyone that's got some 80s nostalgia in them - D&D, video games, movies, music, you name it, that book is like crack.

Snow Crash is one of those paperbacks I've kept around, it was really quite something when it came along, so ahead of the time then. It's been a good few years since I've read it. IIRC it does have its slow moments, but is worth the read. One of the better Neal Stephenson novels imho :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 27, 2017, 07:45:48 PM
Just about to start The Witcher novel Time of Contempt by Andrej Sapkowski, at the same exact time I am almost done with the main quest in The Witcher 3.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on April 27, 2017, 09:32:56 PM
@bob&Martok:

I used to do an annual reading of LotR.  It stopped when I got married.  I don't think I've read them since.  My daughter did The Hobbit and Fellowship for the first time.  Was disappointed in the movies, just like her old man (at least she knows what I am talking about now).  I think it's about time again.

RPO was...sublime.  I was especially stoked with the inclusion of Tomb Of Horrors and Adventure.  I owned and played both and to see them used like they were was a total nerdgasm!

A book I am hoping to be able to recommend soon (once I actually crack it open for the first time), is Kings of the Wylde by Nicholas Eames.  It's a marriage of rock n roll and mercenaries.  I'll report back when finished.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 02, 2017, 08:51:48 AM
Just got finished reading D DAY Through German Eyes - The Hidden Story of June 6th 1944 (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VX372UE) by Holger Eckhertz -- volume 1, not vol 2 yet (both are combined in a paperback edition). WW2 Axis memoirs (or Allied for that matter) are a new genre for me, but while I enjoyed this entry a lot the experience has been unfortunately mired in strong suspicions about the publisher Sprech Media forging or hoaxing much or all of their material, including from Eckhertz as their latest entries. (A 3rd book from HE is on the way.) It doesn't help that Sprech Media has definitely had cheaty publishing practices in their prior series "SS Panzer SS Voices" where, even if their material was one hundred percent legitimate, the publisher has misled readers about which books in the set feature which content, in an effort to milk as much money as possible from rebuying the same material -- when all of it together would make one solid book. (There are signs of similar problems in this series, as the publisher reported the book I bought running around 330 pages, which is frankly impossible, although both books together might run that. On the Kindle page counts are notoriously iffy.)

Some recent research by an Amazon reviewer suggests that this might be material repackaged from a German pulp magazine "Der Landser", whose contributors were (per the German wikipedia page on the magazine) former Nazis with journalism and propaganda backgrounds -- exactly the background of the (supposed) grandfather of the author (who is more like an editor really, collating his grandfather's interview notes... supposedly.) No one has been able to confirm yet that Dieter Eckhertz (the grandfather) even existed, much less that he visited the Atlantic Wall to write a series of interview / propaganda articles for "Der Wehrmacht" magazine. (Was there such a magazine?) Much much less that he then went back 10 years later to re-interview a number of survivors, especially including people he originally interviewed before Overlord. Der Landser was (supposedly??? per the German Wiki) shut down in 2013 after complaints from the Simon Wiesenthal Center. It's plausible that someone is repackaging the material, but more study needs doing.

The books themselves thus feature an interesting case study in why informal historiography should be avoided: because it's difficult to tell legitimate informal material like this from hoaxes. And yet, informal historiography does happen, and can be very legitimate. And yet again, informal historiography, but formal, too, runs into the constraints of memory; and into redaction processes with an editor touching up material to run more smoothly than the interviews themselves; and how far these and other factors can create historical fiction even with intentions otherwise. Or, is an author using verisimilitude to just create historical fiction from the outset?

(This naturally has bearing on historical religious studies and evaluating any ancient texts historically, and detecting modern or relatively modern forgeries, so I've run into these problems often before -- but it's interesting to see them in the context of modern events.)

I will say that, to me, the presentation of the material rings ideologically true, in that the veterans present plausible mental recollections of how people believed and acted at the time, and that there seems to be no attempt at making the Wehrmacht and/or SS heroes retroactively, or at lauding or demonizing the Allies. The atrocities committed on both sides during fighting, and the compassion (generally) of the Allies after fighting, fits the historical scenarios elsewhere reported. That the imagery seems "cinematic" also rings true to the devastating power of the weapons involved and the clarity with which such scenes can be burned into memory (though also perhaps redacted a bit for narrative convenience). If the material is legitimate, then we have some firsthand accounts of attempts at German wonder-weapons which operate plausibly, warts and all -- like the wire-controlled tracked bombs which seemed like a great idea until actually put into action, or (in Vol 2) the attempt at taking early fuel-air-explosive weapon technology (definitely used by the Germans in Poland and the Crimea) and converting it to artillery shells (which ends inconclusively).

The most serious problems so far seem to be the reported presence of StuGs in a unit that, reportedly, didn't have them; and a pilot being part of a flying group which should have been a different flying group for the area. Historical clarification, or hoax goof?

Anyway, reader beware that this may be some kind of scam.  :-\ But one way or another I found it interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 02, 2017, 09:41:26 AM
I have that book in my Amazon cart right now. Is the hoax stench that strong?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 02, 2017, 09:42:38 AM
Quote from: Gusington on April 27, 2017, 07:45:48 PM
Just about to start The Witcher novel Time of Contempt by Andrej Sapkowski, at the same exact time I am almost done with the main quest in The Witcher 3.

Nice. Let us know what you think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on May 02, 2017, 10:03:29 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 02, 2017, 09:41:26 AM
I have that book in my Amazon cart right now. Is the hoax stench that strong?

This is what I found online :  http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/non-fiction-d-day-history-book-seems-fake-should-i-be-annoyed

I Started "D DAY Through German Eyes - The Hidden Story of June 6th" by Holger Eckhertz last night. Purchased from Amazon. It's sold as non fiction accounts for German soldiers present on D-Day. (With an elaborate back story of how these accounts were collected.)
I'm half way through and it seems to me to that the style of these supposedly transcribed accounts from different people is suspiciously similar. There's a total absence of anything that could easily identify their specific units or any names beyond the interviewees. In contrast their memory for detail of events is incredible. Blow by blow account of combat after combat which you'd think would be very hard to recollect in detail.
Now it's possible that the high level of recollection is explained by Eckhertz picking the best, most lucid, of hundreds of accounts and the names of people, units and places have been deliberately omitted, however I have my doubts.
Googling Holger Eckhertz revels nothing, apart from writing this series of books. As far as a I can tell no Newspaper has ever reviewed it and there's no photographs of Eckhertz with source material etc.
So I reckon it might be fiction sold as non-fiction and some of the Amazon reviews appear to agree.



There are some questions that would be worthwhile following up for clarification and accuracy. One centres upon the interviewees use of the term 'Tobruk' bunker to describe their 2 man prefabricated machine gun posts; the use of this term was not a German but an Allied one. Additionally, while I have found reference to German development and practice of coal-dust and fuel mixtures on the Eastern front, this book was the only reference that I have found that refers to a FAE style weapon deployed at D-Day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 02, 2017, 10:08:24 AM
Time of Contempt is excellent. It demands the reader pay attention because there is so much going on, but I can see how rich it is for CD Projekt to farm material from. Time of Contempt takes place sometime before Witcher 3 I think because Ciri is a young kid. Yennefer is still hawt, though, and everywhere she goes louts like us drool over her. Will definitely be reading the rest of the series.

And thanks for the above, Pete...removing from cart now :/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 02, 2017, 10:58:30 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 02, 2017, 10:08:24 AM
Time of Contempt is excellent. It demands the reader pay attention because there is so much going on, but I can see how rich it is for CD Projekt to farm material from. Time of Contempt takes place sometime before Witcher 3 I think because Ciri is a young kid. Yennefer is still hawt, though, and everywhere she goes louts like us drool over her. Will definitely be reading the rest of the series.

Cool. I'll check it out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 02, 2017, 11:50:30 AM
My only complaint is that it should have been given a better cover. The cover of my paperback looks like a crappy 7th grade art project.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on May 02, 2017, 12:29:46 PM
Read this one :

The War in the West - A New History: Volume 1: Germany Ascendant 1939-1941
https://www.amazon.com/War-West-History-Ascendant-1939-1941-ebook/dp/B00XGX9GIU/ref=la_B001HPCROY_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493745811&sr=1-2

and now waiting for part two to release this week

The War in the West: (New History Vol 2)
https://www.amazon.com/War-West-History-Allies-1941-43-ebook/dp/B019CGXMWK/ref=la_B001HPCROY_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493746073&sr=1-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 02, 2017, 12:31:49 PM
Quote from: Pete Dero on May 02, 2017, 10:03:29 AM
This is what I found online :  http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/non-fiction-d-day-history-book-seems-fake-should-i-be-annoyed

[snipped] I'm half way through and it seems to me to that the style of these supposedly transcribed accounts from different people is suspiciously similar.

This could easily be a combination of redaction / translation, and a known habit of Germans of a particular age to speak in a formal manner in circumstances like this. On the flip side, the relatively minor distinctions between 'characters' (such as how the officer at the end of book 1 talks compared to lower-rank soldiers) could well be within the range of a limited imagination: I certainly understand the objection here (as a novelist who also struggles to provide different 'voices' for different characters.)

QuoteThere's a total absence of anything that could easily identify their specific units or any names beyond the interviewees.

"Total absence" is too strong: each character is introduced as part of a division, but not brigade, regiment/battalion, company, etc. [Edited to correct: actually, at least some characters are identified by regiment as well as division! Come to think of it, I'm not sure the Wehrmacht even had many 'brigades' per se...?] Geographical locations are detailed enough that someone could try to crosscheck. In fact some complaints have been that the author stumbles in having provided the wrong identifying units for the place, or the wrong equipment for the identifying units! Both complaints could be accurate, but the latter cancels the degree of "total absence" per se.

QuoteIn contrast their memory for detail of events is incredible. Blow by blow account of combat after combat which you'd think would be very hard to recollect in detail.

This sounds like someone who has never been in highly destructive combat. While memory patterns vary, this level isn't unknown. Commenters who have been in such traumatic combat, or known people who have, regularly rebut this common criticism. That said, it also seems likely some redactional polishing is going on for flavor.

QuoteNow it's possible that the high level of recollection is explained by Eckhertz picking the best, most lucid, of hundreds of accounts and the names of people, units and places have been deliberately omitted, however I have my doubts.

This is of course another explanatory factor for the detail. That most personal names would have been omitted might also be reasonable, considering the legal and political situations. Place names have not in fact been omitted, even if not supplied at the level of meticulous formal reports; informal historiography wouldn't always be expected to mention the names of exactly which towns the arty garrison was visiting nearby. Why unit names are not included in more detail, is on the other hand puzzling.

QuoteGoogling Holger Eckhertz revels nothing, apart from writing this series of books. As far as a I can tell no Newspaper has ever reviewed it and there's no photographs of Eckhertz with source material etc.

This is admittedly something of a problem. It's less of a problem if the material has not been previously published. I myself would not regard a photograph of some guy with a box of paper and maybe some audio tape reels, as evidence weighing in favor of authenticity, since this could be easily faked.

QuoteThere are some questions that would be worthwhile following up for clarification and accuracy. One centres upon the interviewees use of the term 'Tobruk' bunker to describe their 2 man prefabricated machine gun posts; the use of this term was not a German but an Allied one.

Considering that the bunkers were originated by the Axis (Italians if I recall correctly), this might not really be a problem. The characters routinely use German terminology elsewhere as far as I can tell, except where the author clearly signals he's translating for explanatory English. Still if the term was primarily Allied, its inclusion here would be problematic as I don't recall any signalling by the author that he's translating into terms an English reader would contextualize better: he and the characters act as though they themselves called the things "Tobruks". It is not implausible that they could have borrowed a colorful nickname from the Allies: Allied works often calls portable anti-tank cannons pack artillery, which refers back to PAK designations (panzer defense cannon, abbreviated in German), and everyone everywhere calls FLaK "flack", even contemporary at the time.

QuoteAdditionally, while I have found reference to German development and practice of coal-dust and fuel mixtures on the Eastern front, this book was the only reference that I have found that refers to a FAE style weapon deployed at D-Day.

I haven't gotten to that yet in Vol 2, but from what I've read beforehand the shells are inadvertently destroyed before they could be used. This of course is also convenient, to be sure!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on May 02, 2017, 02:09:18 PM
Quote from: Pete Dero on May 02, 2017, 10:03:29 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 02, 2017, 09:41:26 AM
I have that book in my Amazon cart right now. Is the hoax stench that strong?

This is what I found online :  http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/non-fiction-d-day-history-book-seems-fake-should-i-be-annoyed

I Started "D DAY Through German Eyes - The Hidden Story of June 6th" by Holger Eckhertz last night. Purchased from Amazon. It's sold as non fiction accounts for German soldiers present on D-Day. (With an elaborate back story of how these accounts were collected.)
I'm half way through and it seems to me to that the style of these supposedly transcribed accounts from different people is suspiciously similar. There's a total absence of anything that could easily identify their specific units or any names beyond the interviewees. In contrast their memory for detail of events is incredible. Blow by blow account of combat after combat which you'd think would be very hard to recollect in detail.
Now it's possible that the high level of recollection is explained by Eckhertz picking the best, most lucid, of hundreds of accounts and the names of people, units and places have been deliberately omitted, however I have my doubts.
Googling Holger Eckhertz revels nothing, apart from writing this series of books. As far as a I can tell no Newspaper has ever reviewed it and there's no photographs of Eckhertz with source material etc.
So I reckon it might be fiction sold as non-fiction and some of the Amazon reviews appear to agree.



There are some questions that would be worthwhile following up for clarification and accuracy. One centres upon the interviewees use of the term 'Tobruk' bunker to describe their 2 man prefabricated machine gun posts; the use of this term was not a German but an Allied one. Additionally, while I have found reference to German development and practice of coal-dust and fuel mixtures on the Eastern front, this book was the only reference that I have found that refers to a FAE style weapon deployed at D-Day.

I bought a few of those Eckhertz titles myself too, and was wondering the same thing as if these are genuine or not. I did not find anything about them from any other source either.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 02, 2017, 07:35:00 PM
I have been reading Hitler's War: The War That Came Early by Harry Turtledove. I like it so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 02, 2017, 08:12:10 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on May 02, 2017, 07:35:00 PM
I have been reading Hitler's War: The War That Came Early by Harry Turtledove. I like it so far.

I've been tempted to start that but after slogging through the extended Worldwar/Colonization series and also the How Few Remain/ Special Order 191-verse I've been a little gun-shy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 03, 2017, 10:36:37 AM
I haven't read Turtledove's other works but Hitler's War is a light read if what I have read thus far is any indication so I don't believe I will be "slogging through" the remainder of this book. If it turns out to be otherwise, I won't be reading the rest of the series. (Or any of Turtledove's other books for that matter.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 03, 2017, 10:53:15 AM
I've never been able to get in Turtledove's books. Tried a couple times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 03, 2017, 11:46:46 AM
Same here. I've tried, but they just do not grab me at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 03, 2017, 08:01:20 PM
I need to be careful of what I start because I have 'Completism', a disorder that forces me to read every book in a series or watch every episode of a TV show if I've gotten past the third or fourth one. David Weber is going to drive me over the edge with his Hellgate series (which I really like and is way to slow in adding volumes) and his Safehold series which are getting a bit over the top (will the Charisians develop jet propulsion, radar, and atomic fission before their enemies catch up to percussion caps and steam power?).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 03, 2017, 08:40:15 PM
I read Guns of the South by Turtledove.  It was ok, but, not an author I would pursue reading unless there were no other options.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 09, 2017, 07:49:23 AM
Finished Volume 2 of D Day Through German Eyes, and I'm no closer to discerning how much of the book is legitimate; intentional fake; harmless redaction and/or translational issues (would a soldier in 1954 call something a quantum jump forward in technology? or is that a paraphrase of a German word difficult to translate meaningfully into modern English?); or redaction intended to obscure or change meaning, and if so then how relevant is the alteration?

As a clear example of the latter question: I know from other historical materials that part of the propaganda fed to the people and the troops was the need to protect a united Europe (and the need to unite Europe by force, therefore, for its own protection) against the Bolsheviks in Russia ruining Europe despotically, and thus against the international banking system which supposedly fostered the communist revolution in order to achieve state despotic power and which naturally also was backing the British and American governments until they could be undermined and overthrown into communist rule. This concept shows up several times in the interviews, usually but not always with a hindsight understanding that this was false propaganda after all. What never once shows up in connection with this idea in the book, but which did regularly show up historically in connection with it, is anti-Judaism (and its connected racial anti-Semitism): the Jews run the banking system, the Jews run the communists, all communists are Jews all Jews are communists etc. It can't help but seem suspicious that out of every single mention of defending against the international banking system and international socialism (compared to "national" socialism of course), not one connection is made even for correction against Jewish culture/religion or against a Semitic race. (There is even some mention of racial competition in other regards: why are people of our race attacking us when we should all be fighting against the Slavic race? -- that kind of thing.)

Did everyone by pure accident just happen not to mention the popular connection (a popular connection so popularized it formed the underlying basis for the freaking Holocaust)?! Did they censor themselves on this topic out of post-war sensitivity (to things like for example the freaking Holocaust)? Did the (ostensible) interviewer in his notes, or his (ostensible) grandson, redact that connection out to avoid potential problems with the book being accepted which already had controversial views hampering publication? or redact out for other reasons? Was there some combination thereof? Or did the author avoid making these connections when fictionalizing these narratives? I have no idea.

Sometimes the structure of the narrative seems suspicious, too. As far as I recall, every single interviewee explains one way or another how they left the war, either on June 6th or shortly afterward or sometime afterward -- except one. This one happens to also be the only one caught out by paratroopers before dawn (paratroop fights after daybreak feature on rare occasion elsewhere). The scene involves him narrowly missing being silenced by paratroops once, and then he finds a German ad hoc squad in the road while escaping and they all get ambushed by (American) paratroops again with each squad member quickly dispatched. How did the interviewee survive? Well, he raised his gun out of fear to try any desperation to fight back, and they smash it from his hands and start beating him -- and that's the end of his story, he doesn't want to talk about it anymore.

...really? But that sounds like an author painted himself into a corner or had a nightmare he wanted to use as ground for a short story! Shouldn't the editor or the collector have added a postscript explaining that Herr Whateverhisnamewas was left for dead in the road and found the next day by a retreating company who took him to the rear where his wounds were regarded as severe enough to be sent to, say, Holland for recuperation, where he later served in stopping Operation Market-Garden before withdrawing behind the Westwall etc.?


And yet there are lots of little touches which count toward verisimilitude, too, like a soldier wondering if a British Typhoon (iirc) had been outfitted with horns similar to Stukas earlier in the war: he knows that despite the stereotype, the Stuka dive-bomb sirens were pretty quickly removed as being more trouble for the crew overall than for their targets.

I continued to be impressed, but I also continued to see why readers would be suspicious. Certainly, with the lack of contextual provenance, I couldn't recommend the book as a basis for doing any history. But at the very least the book (in its 2 vols, collected for print I think) often reads like history.


Relatedly, I have also now started Richard Hargreaves' The Germans in Normandy, which unlike that 2-vol set does routinely source its quotes from established memoirs. Points of contact immediately jump out; not in the sense of plagiarism, just confirmation of topics and ideas shared by both works in a historical context.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 12, 2017, 09:12:47 PM
To compliment my starting Alien: Isolation and the upcoming release of Alien: Covenant, I am reading Alien: The Weyland-Yutani Report:

https://smile.amazon.com/Alien-Weyland-Yutani-Report-S-Perry/dp/160887866X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1494641527&sr=1-1&keywords=weyland+yutani+report
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 13, 2017, 07:00:13 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 12, 2017, 09:12:47 PM
To compliment my starting Alien: Isolation and the upcoming release of Alien: Covenant, I am reading Alien: The Weyland-Yutani Report:

https://smile.amazon.com/Alien-Weyland-Yutani-Report-S-Perry/dp/160887866X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1494641527&sr=1-1&keywords=weyland+yutani+report


I think you should read the companion book next

https://www.amazon.com/Alien-Next-Door-Joey-Spiotto/dp/1785650262/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2017, 04:14:26 PM
^Read that already.

Next is the Colonial Marines 'Tech Manual'

https://www.amazon.com/Aliens-Colonial-Marines-Technical-Manual/dp/1781161313/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1494800039&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=Colonial+Marines+Tech+Manual
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on May 14, 2017, 09:45:42 PM
I just finished reading The King Without a Kingdom, book 7 in The Accursed Kings series by Maurice Druon. Now I will resume reading Hitler's War, book 1 of The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on May 15, 2017, 11:32:36 AM
Started Thrawn on Friday. Finished this morning. Good book although I'm a little behind in my Star Wars mythology so some references I did not get.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 16, 2017, 06:01:14 PM
The Weyland-Yutani Report was great. About to start the Colonial Marines Tech Manual.

https://www.amazon.com/Aliens-Colonial-Marines-Technical-Manual/dp/1781161313/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1494800039&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=Colonial+Marines+Tech+Manual
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 17, 2017, 03:17:52 PM
Back to my ongoing report of the original Magic: the Gathering novels, the series published by HarperPrism. We're now at Book 7, Ashes of the Sun, by Havovi Braddock. In order to make my inevitable wall of text more palatable if no less inevitable I shall Fraternally Anticipate Questions.


DOES THIS BOOK WARM THE COCKLES OF A FOLK ANTHROPOLOGIST'S HEART?

Why, yes, yes it does, O Suspiciously Particular Imaginary Questioner! -- even my little amateur heart, although I expect a more professional folkanthra of my acquaintance would like it even more if she hasn't read it already. It's about lore and languages and why myth and history are both important (but maybe myth more important in the end, at least in pre-industrial societies)...

PASS.

...and about minotaurs and goblins and cow-chopping axes and sadness and a beautiful but desperately lonely and grieving middle-aged female human martial-arts wrestler and... wait, that wasn't a question.


MINOTAURS, EH? ARE WE FINALLY BACK TO A STORY THAT IS ACTUALLY ABOUT MAGIC: THE GATHERING IN SOME MEANINGFUL FASHION?

Eh, no. Everything verbally connected with the game, up to and including the "Hurloon Minotaurs" (who are the Minotaurs-Not-Appearing-In-This-Story), are decorative bling. Again. There's more of the decorative bling than in the previous story, and it technically happens back in "Dominaria" the first main world of the game, but --

-- BUT THIS SOUNDS LIKE ANOTHER FANTASY NOVEL REPURPOSED TO BE INCLUDED IN A SERIES ABOUT MAGIC: THE GATHERING CARDS.

Not a question again, but yes I wouldn't be even slightly surprised if this was true.

DOES THE COVER ARTIST GOOF AS BADLY AS ON THE PREVIOUS BOOK ABOUT THE SNAKEY-LIZARDY-ALLIGATOR PEOPLE?

No, but what the minotaurs should be wearing is important in the story and this gets botched.

A STORY ABOUT WHAT MINOTAURS SHOULD BE WEARING. GREAT. WHAT ABOUT THE BACK COVER? ARE THE TWO MAGIC CARDS HILARIOUSLY AND/OR VAGUELY INAPPROPRIATE?

Less so. There are indeed minotaurs who live in a labyrinth, so "Labyrinth Minotaur" at least makes some kind of sense. Goblins are not lacking, but no "Goblin Sappers" per se.

HOW'S THE SEX AND VIOLENCE AND CURSING?

Less R-rated than several previous entries, though the violence is still bloody. But it isn't a chocked-full-of-action plot. It's a thinky moody thoughtful plot.

MUCH LIKE THE PREVIOUS TWO BOOKS WHICH WEREN'T REALLY ABOUT MTG EITHER?

A little more action than either of those, I'd say, but also even more thoughtful. Keep in mind that I have rather liked all the books in the series so far, including those prior two. For books clocking under 350 small pages (and no more than 292 in this case), they pack quite a bit of plot. I vaguely recall only one or two editing/composition glitches, too, and the book doesn't start in the middle of a fight while trying to explain what the hell either. It takes a little while to get to the main plot, but I wasn't bored. I was actually impressed at how the plot worked itself back along its track (both literally and figuratively) at the end. Also, I appreciated the nerve of the author in drawing out an extended set of epilogue chapters rather than ending with a thump of a few pages.

COULD YOU BE MORE SPECIFIC ABOUT THE PLOT WITHOUT UNDUE SPOILERAGE?

The aforementioned woman, Ayesh, is the last known survivor of a glorious human civilization overthrown, more than a little embarrassingly all things considered, by a goblin horde. Possibly because the seven cities of this Empire avoided training any military to bother talking about, and ended up relying on a few handfulls of wrestlers to defend them. (Not entirely joking, the author's unfortunately a bit vague about this.) Now the woman in her 40s travels the world as a minstrel trying to teach people the history of her land, but she's been doing it long enough (over 20 years now) that she's starting to hear her own stories come back in popular deformations which causes her to lose hope that her culture can ever rise again. On an ill-fated venture to find a northern human outpost where maybe she can tell her histories and keep them alive without other people coming along to legendarily accrete them, she decides screw it her whole mission in life is a worthless failure and she'd rather die literally kicking the asses of the local goblin infestation while drunk.

Then minotaurs happen.

SOUNDS PORTENTOUS.

It is.

SOUNDS PRETENTIOUS.

It... well, kind of is, I guess. But in a good way? I didn't mind.

SOUNDS PREDICTABLE.

If I say that it wasn't, then that might sound predictable in another way. The author likes to send out signals so you expect the story to zig, but then more often it zags instead. I can't say I was very happy that the Big Bad of the piece was an extremely fundamentalist religious leader (very often called "fundamentalist" vs the "liberals"), but she's the only blatantly obvious and unshaded villain of the piece and the relationship between conservative and liberal religion, ditto politics, is more nuanced than I was worried it would be when I saw this side of the plot starting up early.  ::) :P


I think I have another couple of books to go before Wizards of the Coast yanks the publishing contract back to itself in order to publish actual freaking MTG novels (again), and considering the dearth of more than cosmetic MTG in these past three books I can understand why they'd do that. But the stories themselves are good quality (even if the editing and composition gets sloppy sometimes -- not in this one.) I won't mind reading another book or two in this general vein, but I'll be glad to get to epic plottiness and lore-wallowing eventually, too.  :nerd: :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 17, 2017, 06:37:38 PM
Google Translate fail  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 17, 2017, 08:00:41 PM
What are cockles?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 18, 2017, 04:26:38 AM
Molluscs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 18, 2017, 08:31:50 AM
Oh.

Wut?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 18, 2017, 08:51:14 AM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cockle_(bivalve)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 18, 2017, 10:26:26 AM
"Warm the cockles of your/my/his heart", is archaic slang dating back to the 1670s in English. It was still prevalent, in a winky-old way, in comic books and things like that when I was growing up in the 1970s.

The term, and the mollusc's name, come from the same Latin medical term, cochleae referring to heart valves. Which I'm sure is based on an analogy with something a lot more mundane.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 19, 2017, 06:34:55 PM
I've heard the term...I was alive in the 1970s :)

Just never knew wtf a cockle is.

I should probably go to bed now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on May 19, 2017, 07:29:35 PM
OK but no touching your cockle!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 19, 2017, 07:55:50 PM
Or dongle?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 19, 2017, 08:34:15 PM
I'll touch both all night.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 19, 2017, 08:56:54 PM
But don't let either catch you with the other...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 20, 2017, 02:59:44 PM
What happens then?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 20, 2017, 03:20:08 PM
Jealousy, hurt feelings, the works.

It could get very ugly...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 20, 2017, 03:23:30 PM
Ugh don't want that
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bobarossa on May 20, 2017, 04:07:35 PM
Never read this thread before.  "246 pages!  Must be a lot of good discussions on books."  And this is what I see?  How naive can I be.  This is Grogheads.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 20, 2017, 04:14:03 PM
I hope you didn't go through all 246 pages just to figure that out?!?!!??!  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 20, 2017, 10:21:58 PM
Yeah, page 1 was the first time I read, "Green Eggs and Ham" in the second grade.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 21, 2017, 08:00:19 AM
Just finished Kenobi and I'm about to start Ken Follett's Fall of Giants.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 21, 2017, 12:11:17 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 20, 2017, 04:14:03 PM
I hope you didn't go through all 246 pages just to figure that out?!?!!??!  ;)

At least one-third of which are wall-length reviews from me on books no one anywhere cares about.  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 21, 2017, 12:12:46 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 20, 2017, 02:59:44 PM
What happens then?

I have a feeling the answer is sixty-nine.  :o :timeout:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on May 21, 2017, 12:15:22 PM
Just finished 1634.  Somewhere in that series, there a great idea, but it's just a hot mess.  The writing in 1634 is just awful. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on May 23, 2017, 06:16:57 AM
Quote from: OJsDad on May 21, 2017, 12:15:22 PM
Just finished 1634.  Somewhere in that series, there a great idea, but it's just a hot mess. The writing in 1634 is just awful.

So much wanted to like the series too. At times it's really working, at (most) other times it's not. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 23, 2017, 07:12:14 AM
Just started Ancestral Machines by Michael Cobley.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 23, 2017, 10:14:12 AM
Just finished, "Between Giants-- The Battle for the Baltics in WWII" by Prit Buttar. Another great book by this guy with lots of up to date facts and figures about this narrow slice of the Eastern Front.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 23, 2017, 10:18:28 AM
Quote from: bbmike on May 21, 2017, 08:00:19 AM
Just finished Kenobi and I'm about to start Ken Follett's Fall of Giants.

What'd you think of Kenobi?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 23, 2017, 10:21:20 AM
Slash I've had Between Giants in my Amazon basket forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 23, 2017, 10:23:22 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 23, 2017, 10:18:28 AM
Quote from: bbmike on May 21, 2017, 08:00:19 AM
Just finished Kenobi and I'm about to start Ken Follett's Fall of Giants.

What'd you think of Kenobi?

I actually liked Kenobi.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 23, 2017, 10:36:34 AM
Quote from: bbmike on May 23, 2017, 10:23:22 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 23, 2017, 10:18:28 AM
Quote from: bbmike on May 21, 2017, 08:00:19 AM
Just finished Kenobi and I'm about to start Ken Follett's Fall of Giants.

What'd you think of Kenobi?

I actually liked Kenobi.  O0

Me too, though I haven't finished it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 23, 2017, 12:21:03 PM
Next up is Prit Buttar's earlier book, "Battleground Prussia".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 23, 2017, 12:23:26 PM
^Also on my list. I wish I could read faster.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 23, 2017, 03:53:14 PM
I could read faster if I quit playing games. But then....  I really wish I could read AND play games at the same time. And eat chicken wings.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 23, 2017, 03:59:35 PM
Never read with your mouth full?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 23, 2017, 04:00:03 PM
^If I could do that while holding a female bewb I would never leave the house.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 23, 2017, 04:04:42 PM
Not even to get a fresh one?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 23, 2017, 04:15:35 PM
Have to think about that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 23, 2017, 06:47:46 PM
Gus if you want my copy of "Between Giants", just PM me your address and I'll mail it to you. I'm done with it after all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 23, 2017, 09:21:57 PM
You don't want to keep it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 23, 2017, 10:39:38 PM
No, I'll probably never get around to reading it again.... because I can't read any faster.  :peace:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 24, 2017, 08:12:41 AM
Thanks! PM sent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 24, 2017, 10:07:10 AM
You're welcome. I got it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 24, 2017, 12:50:55 PM
I have 1000s of books. As I post what I read, feel free to pipe up if it's something you want.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2017, 05:10:36 PM
'The Secret War,' by Max Hastings
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 07:51:53 PM
^Nice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2017, 07:59:12 PM
Picked it up at a local bookstore today. I'm pretty psyched.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 08:01:50 PM
Max Hastings has written some of the best history ever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2017, 08:02:35 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 08:01:50 PM
Max Hastings has written some of the best history ever.

Complete agreement. He's a master.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 08:07:20 PM
One day when I have time I want to read his books on WWI. He's written on the Korean War and the Falklands War too, which I just found out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 08:09:26 PM
And a book on Bloody Sunday in Northern Ireland...he is a prolific mofo.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2017, 08:09:37 PM
The Falklands book is truly a masterpiece. I've read it several times.

I have his Korea book as well. Could be time to give it another read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 08:10:37 PM
I thought he was older than ~70.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2017, 08:14:40 PM
He's been writing for such a long time, you kinda expect him to be older.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2017, 08:25:41 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 08:09:26 PM
And a book on Bloody Sunday in Northern Ireland

That one I haven't read. I'll add it to the list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 08:35:14 PM
It's close to 200.00. Must be out of print.

https://smile.amazon.com/Ulster-1969-rights-Northern-Ireland/dp/0575004827/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2017, 08:39:15 PM
whoa...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2017, 09:51:09 PM
Ha yeah
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 28, 2017, 05:52:43 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 27, 2017, 08:39:15 PM
whoa...


Interlibrary Loan to the rescue!

https://www.portlandlibrary.com/using-the-library/interlibrary-loan-requests/

https://www.portlandlibrary.com/using-the-library/interlibrary-loan-requests/book-request-for-ppl-cardholders/

The PPL has a few Hastings books but not Ulster 1969, so you'll need to request using the second link.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 28, 2017, 07:32:42 AM
Thanks, Wing. I've reserved a copy through my local branch  O0

I'm trying to figure out if there's actually a  difference between these:

https://www.amazon.com/Barricades-Belfast-rights-Northern-Ireland/dp/0800806654 (https://www.amazon.com/Barricades-Belfast-rights-Northern-Ireland/dp/0800806654)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0575004827?ref%5F=asap%5Fbc&pldnSite=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0575004827?ref%5F=asap%5Fbc&pldnSite=1)

Barricades in Belfast isn't listed in his bibliography on Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Max_Hastings (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Max_Hastings)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on May 28, 2017, 08:00:49 AM
Interesting.  Goodreads lists them as two different editions of the same book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 28, 2017, 09:12:17 AM
Quote from: Bison on May 28, 2017, 08:00:49 AM
Interesting.  Goodreads lists them as two different editions of the same book.

That's what I was thinking it probably was.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on May 28, 2017, 09:40:55 AM
I'm not sure how much you care, but https://openlibrary.org/authors/OL337400A/Max_Hastings provides the answer.  If you look at the details of the book, you will find the following details.

The "Barricades in Belfast" version is the American edition and the "Ulster 1969" is the London edition.  Two different publishers for the book in two different markets.  The Library of Congress number is the same with the exception that "Barricades in Belfast" has the additional numbering of 1970b, which I believe denotes it as an alternative printing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 28, 2017, 09:45:23 AM
Quote from: Bison on May 28, 2017, 09:40:55 AM
I'm not sure how much you care, but https://openlibrary.org/authors/OL337400A/Max_Hastings provides the answer.  If you look at the details of the book, you will find the following details.

The "Barricades in Belfast" version is the American edition and the "Ulster 1969" is the London edition.  Two different publishers for the book in two different markets.  The Library of Congress number is the same with the exception that "Barricades in Belfast" has the additional numbering of 1970b, which I believe denotes it as an alternative printing.

Hey if you're doing all the work, I'm happy to know the answer ;)

Explains the difference in prices on Amazon too. A copy of the US printing can be had for $13.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on May 28, 2017, 09:49:08 AM
It was either that or decipher a rule book and explain to the kid why wargames are good for you.  I don't have the energy for the latter battle today.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 28, 2017, 09:53:52 AM
Time well spent then.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 28, 2017, 04:37:11 PM
About to start The Ruin of the Roman Empire by James J. O'Donnell. I had to stop reading Ancestral Machines and set it aside for another time, I just couldn't get into it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 28, 2017, 05:00:32 PM
I'm also reading A Darkness at Sethanon by Raymond Feist. I've read it a bunch of times before, but it's a great summer time read. Picked it up yesterday and I'm already halfway through it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 29, 2017, 07:27:48 AM
Isn't that the last book?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 29, 2017, 07:31:39 AM
It is. I've read the series enough times that it doesn't really matter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on May 29, 2017, 09:23:00 AM
I've not read any on the Riftwar series. I'll have to add it to my list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 29, 2017, 09:57:14 AM
Good stuff and easy reads.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 29, 2017, 10:28:16 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 29, 2017, 09:57:14 AM
Good stuff and easy reads.

+1

It was taken directly from Feist's home brew D&D game. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 29, 2017, 10:30:46 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 29, 2017, 10:28:16 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 29, 2017, 09:57:14 AM
Good stuff and easy reads.

+1

It was taken directly from Feist's home brew D&D game. 

Pretty cool, right?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 29, 2017, 08:59:36 PM
Quote from: mirth on May 29, 2017, 10:30:46 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on May 29, 2017, 10:28:16 AM
Quote from: mirth on May 29, 2017, 09:57:14 AM
Good stuff and easy reads.

+1

It was taken directly from Feist's home brew D&D game. 

Pretty cool, right?


If he could DM a tenth of how cool he made those stories, I would have been in Nerd-vana being in that home brew.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 01, 2017, 01:29:14 AM
I am currently reading West and East, book 2 of The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on June 02, 2017, 08:38:12 PM
I just finished Max Hastings Catastrophe 1914: Europe Goes to War.

Continuing the WW 1 theme, I went to the Pentagon library this afternoon and picked up this book:

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FAcOvzBX.jpg&hash=08ab16a3448081698c025137395dd0f9b3d7db63)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 03, 2017, 08:20:43 AM
Nice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 03, 2017, 04:38:52 PM
British and German Battlecruisers - Their Development and Operations


https://www.usni.org/store/books/fighting-ships/ship-reference/british-and-german-battlecruisers (https://www.usni.org/store/books/fighting-ships/ship-reference/british-and-german-battlecruisers)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 03, 2017, 04:42:12 PM
That sounds interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 03, 2017, 04:43:49 PM
It's pretty awesome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 03, 2017, 04:46:58 PM
Looks like its only 46 US bucks on Amazon:
https://smile.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=BRITISH+AND+GERMAN+BATTLECRUISERS

Not many copies left though...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 03, 2017, 05:38:03 PM
That is quite the sexy looking title. On that page I also found this:

http://amzn.to/2qNyH29

Also sexy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 03, 2017, 05:45:42 PM
Quote from: mirth on May 29, 2017, 09:57:14 AM
Good stuff and easy reads.

The four book set just arrived. I blame you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 03, 2017, 06:55:01 PM
Quote from: bbmike on June 03, 2017, 05:45:42 PM
Quote from: mirth on May 29, 2017, 09:57:14 AM
Good stuff and easy reads.

The four book set just arrived. I blame you.

Lol. You should really enjoy them. I've read them all many times over the past 30 years. There's a rather extensive universe covered by several book series, if you really get into it. The four Riftwar books are the best though, imho.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 03, 2017, 06:56:48 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 03, 2017, 06:55:01 PM
Quote from: bbmike on June 03, 2017, 05:45:42 PM
Quote from: mirth on May 29, 2017, 09:57:14 AM
Good stuff and easy reads.

The four book set just arrived. I blame you.

Lol. You should really enjoy them. I've read them all many times over the past 30 years. There's a rather extensive universe covered by several book series, if you really get into it. The four Riftwar books are the best though, imho.

+ 1 to all of the above
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 03, 2017, 07:25:32 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 03, 2017, 05:38:03 PM
That is quite the sexy looking title. On that page I also found this:

http://amzn.to/2qNyH29

Also sexy.

Very sexy. With all the naval wargaming I've been doing lately, I've had my eye on a number of related books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 03, 2017, 08:38:17 PM
I hate that they're so pricey but kinda like it too. I'm a book snob.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 03, 2017, 09:21:46 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 01, 2017, 01:29:14 AM
I am currently reading West and East, book 2 of The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove.

I wrote a review for "The Big Switch" which was just too weird for my tolerance level.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 03, 2017, 09:33:18 PM
I've been reading a bunch of light fantasy and SF (or rereading things I've read before) over the last two months because of all of the weird BS coming from my wife's family.

In the last 90 days or so I've read in the history book area:
The Dark Valley: A Panorama of the 1930s - which is depressing.

American Heritage History of World War - Which I would not recommend to anyone here.

The Miracle of Dunkirk: The True Story of Operation Dynamo by Lord - and that was a really good read.  Highly recommend it.

Lonely Vigil: Coastwatchers of the Solomons by Lord which was just awesome!  Great read.

The Good Years: From 1900 to the First World War by Lord which was good, but I've read better of this type of general US popular history.  The one thing that was really interesting was his pulling from many national and regional US newspapers about the Balkans crisis which led to WW1.  The amazing lack of coverage until everyone started actually mobilizing is fascinating.  For many weeks the only newspaper coverage to speak of was how Serbian and Austrian-Hungarian bonds were tanking.


I'm reading "After the Downfall" by Harry Turtledove right now.  A Captain in the German Infantry during the fall of Berlin gets teleported to a different world.  It has been ok so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 04, 2017, 10:53:23 AM
'The Good Years' sounds very interesting. What do you prefer that is better?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 04, 2017, 11:28:02 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 04, 2017, 10:53:23 AM
'The Good Years' sounds very interesting. What do you prefer that is better?

Only Yesterday (the 1920s)
and
Since Yesterday (the 1930s)

both by Frederic Allen
They will go on sale every so often on Amazon for $1.99

There is an even better series Our Times but it is not in ebook.  I've strongly considered buying used copies and having them converted to pdf.  Allergies suck for cheap reads.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 04, 2017, 11:30:25 AM
Thanks airboy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 04, 2017, 12:21:52 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 04, 2017, 11:28:02 AM

There is an even better series Our Times but it is not in ebook.  I've strongly considered buying used copies and having them converted to pdf.  Allergies suck for cheap reads.


I'd like to thank your allergies for many hours of good reading :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 05, 2017, 09:15:24 AM
Finished Hargreaves' Germans in Normandy (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BCOW254) over the weekend. As previously noted, unlike the D-Day Through German Eyes collection, these accounts are all properly sourced, although the newer collection could perhaps be an interesting supplement to GiN. On the other hand, I could sure understand suspicions that the more infamous collection has cribbed somewhat from GiN for verisimilitude in writing fictional vignettes!

Strictly speaking there's nothing here that anyone who has studied Normandy (and the related North France operations up through the end of August 44) won't have seen before, of course -- in that sense the ostensible eye-witness collection might be more useful (if it's true! ;) ) GiN provides a ton of snapshots from the highest levels to the lowest grunts, although naturally officers get more screentime simply due to being more connected with the big picture and better able to have had their thoughts recorded in various survivable ways: phone transcripts between HQs play a valuable role for example.

The book segues very smoothly into Kershaw's It Never Snows in September, which discusses Market-Garden from German perspectives: Kershaw starts at the tail end of August and the first days of September to set up context for the operation. Kershaw's organization and writing style are a bit different, naturally, and he seems to have relied more on personal interviews than Hargreaves did, which is giving his book (which I'm reading now) a little different flavor. Both GiN and INSiS are quality works either way.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 05, 2017, 03:05:35 PM
Castles and Crusades PHB and Castlekeeper Guide. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 05, 2017, 03:13:32 PM
NERD!!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 05, 2017, 03:34:22 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 05, 2017, 03:13:32 PM
NERD!!!

I cannot deny my nerd ways of awesomeness. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 05, 2017, 03:47:17 PM
Started re-reading Spock's World over the weekend.

https://www.amazon.com/Spocks-World-Star-Trek-Original-ebook/dp/B000FC0UPI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1496695499&sr=8-5

Which lead me to order this

https://www.amazon.com/Star-Trek-Original-Rihannsu-Bloodwing-ebook/dp/B000N2HCPG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1496695431&sr=8-2

mainly for the last two books in the compilation - I've read the other two many times
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 05, 2017, 03:58:23 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 05, 2017, 03:47:17 PM
Started re-reading Spock's World over the weekend.

https://www.amazon.com/Spocks-World-Star-Trek-Original-ebook/dp/B000FC0UPI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1496695499&sr=8-5

Which lead me to order this

https://www.amazon.com/Star-Trek-Original-Rihannsu-Bloodwing-ebook/dp/B000N2HCPG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1496695431&sr=8-2

mainly for the last two books in the compilation - I've read the other two many times

Who's NERD now?  Nerd!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 05, 2017, 04:17:01 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 05, 2017, 03:47:17 PM
Started re-reading Spock's World over the weekend.

https://www.amazon.com/Spocks-World-Star-Trek-Original-ebook/dp/B000FC0UPI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1496695499&sr=8-5

Which lead me to order this

https://www.amazon.com/Star-Trek-Original-Rihannsu-Bloodwing-ebook/dp/B000N2HCPG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1496695431&sr=8-2

mainly for the last two books in the compilation - I've read the other two many times

God no, not the Starfleet Ensign Horta one. :hide: (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Fpics%2Fshakehead.gif&hash=d6326b4159f7e626ec4cddc26ebf21b107565a04)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 05, 2017, 04:26:35 PM
Ensign Horta is only a secondary character :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 05, 2017, 04:43:38 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 05, 2017, 04:26:35 PM
Ensign Horta is only a secondary character :P

But...Ensign....Horta. (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Fpics%2Fvomit.gif&hash=f8c0cec79f834c3558ced52ccf681c80fdf7c2e4)
Now, I'm not saying they would stop a Horta from joining Starfleet if that's what it wanted to do (no Horta would ever want to join Starfleet). But if it did it would never be assigned to a starship. Its rock hard ass would be immediately shipped off to Rigel XII to dig tunnels in order to get at all of that sweet dilithium (they said lithium in that episode but meant dilithium). And even then it wouldn't get to keep any of the profits the greedy miners made.
Now if you will excuse me there's a bourbon with my name on it calling to me. Horta in Starfleet. Sheesh.  :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 05, 2017, 04:45:14 PM
^Speciesist.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 05, 2017, 05:11:29 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 05, 2017, 04:45:14 PM
^Speciesist.

That's exactly what Commodore Mendez said until I told him about the dilithium mining thing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 07, 2017, 10:20:38 AM
Mike, you should absolutely read Spock's World. I had forgotten just how good it is. Lots of very cool Vulcan lore.

And Ensign Horta is only in it for a couple pages ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 07, 2017, 11:01:45 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 07, 2017, 10:20:38 AM
Mike, you should absolutely read Spock's World. I had forgotten just how good it is. Lots of very cool Vulcan lore.

And Ensign Horta is only in it for a couple pages ;)

That ubiquitous Horta is everywhere!
I can't remember if I read that one or not. I do remember when it came out and Waldenbooks had posters of it everywhere.  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 07, 2017, 11:07:55 AM
Diane Duane does an outstanding job creating a fascinating history for the Vulcans and Romulans.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 07, 2017, 11:15:41 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 07, 2017, 11:07:55 AM
Diane Duane does an outstanding job creating a fascinating history for the Vulcans and Romulans.

She really should do a Horta one.  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on June 11, 2017, 08:13:14 AM
http://www.nyjournalofbooks.com/book-review/implacable-foes

Implacable Foes pretty thoroughly puts paid to the myth that Japan was on the verge of surrendering, and it was not necessary to drop the A bombs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 11, 2017, 09:29:07 AM
Quote from: bbmike on June 07, 2017, 11:15:41 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 07, 2017, 11:07:55 AM
Diane Duane does an outstanding job creating a fascinating history for the Vulcans and Romulans.

She really should do a Horta one.  :P

That might be a little rocky.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on June 11, 2017, 02:16:32 PM
I just started reading The Big Switch, book 3 in The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove. :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 11, 2017, 08:10:25 PM
Quote from: besilarius on June 11, 2017, 08:13:14 AM
http://www.nyjournalofbooks.com/book-review/implacable-foes

Implacable Foes pretty thoroughly puts paid to the myth that Japan was on the verge of surrendering, and it was not necessary to drop the A bombs.

This got a very favorable review in the Wall St. Journal.  I put it on my wish list to track the price for the future.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 11, 2017, 08:11:17 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 11, 2017, 02:16:32 PM
I just started reading The Big Switch, book 3 in The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove. :coolsmiley:

I'll be interested to see if you dislike the main plot change as much as I did.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 11, 2017, 08:31:30 PM
Just started book 3 of the Expeditionary Force series by Craig Alanson.  It's pulpy military sci-fi with a good sense of humour.  Basically, some furry aliens show up on Earth in present day and start blowing a bunch of stuff up.  One of their dropships is forced to do an emergency landing in Maine and an off-duty soldier and some local rednecks manage to capture one.  Before the furry aliens can do much damage, some lizard aliens that they're currently at war with jumps into orbit around Earth and chases the invaders off.  Earth allies itself with the lizards and agrees to send off an expeditionary force to fight on behalf of the lizards off-world.  The lizards see humans as backwards savages and treat them as such (think colonial troops fighting for the Imperial powers in the 19th century) and won't trust them with advanced tech or weapons.

Things take a turn when the same off duty soldier from Maine stumbles across an AI system that may be partially insane and that's when the series gets interesting. 


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 13, 2017, 08:23:29 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 11, 2017, 08:31:30 PM
Just started book 3 of the Expeditionary Force series by Craig Alanson.  It's pulpy military sci-fi with a good sense of humour.  Basically, some furry aliens show up on Earth in present day and start blowing a bunch of stuff up.  One of their dropships is forced to do an emergency landing in Maine and an off-duty soldier and some local rednecks manage to capture one.  Before the furry aliens can do much damage, some lizard aliens that they're currently at war with jumps into orbit around Earth and chases the invaders off.  Earth allies itself with the lizards and agrees to send off an expeditionary force to fight on behalf of the lizards off-world.  The lizards see humans as backwards savages and treat them as such (think colonial troops fighting for the Imperial powers in the 19th century) and won't trust them with advanced tech or weapons.

Things take a turn when the same off duty soldier from Maine stumbles across an AI system that may be partially insane and that's when the series gets interesting.

I bought the first book for a buck.  Then the audible bastards sold me the audio version for four bucks.  I have a crack habit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 17, 2017, 01:13:29 PM
From Ruin of the Roman Empire by James O'Donnell: "Civilization is a thing of the calm, the patient, the pragmatic, and the wise. We are not assured that it will triumph." Damn but that is a great final statement.

Now about to start "Lights Out - A Cyberattack - A Nation Unprepared - Surviving the Aftermath" by Ted Koppel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 17, 2017, 02:13:26 PM
Sounds like pretty depressing stuff, Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 17, 2017, 06:55:56 PM
Gus, I have Lights Out also. Tried to start it recently but it just wasn't very interesting, at least not at start. LMK what you think.

I re-started Invasion: Alaska. Never finished it a couple of years ago and I remember it being a decent enough read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 17, 2017, 07:42:36 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 13, 2017, 08:23:29 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on June 11, 2017, 08:31:30 PM
Just started book 3 of the Expeditionary Force series by Craig Alanson.  It's pulpy military sci-fi with a good sense of humour.  Basically, some furry aliens show up on Earth in present day and start blowing a bunch of stuff up.  One of their dropships is forced to do an emergency landing in Maine and an off-duty soldier and some local rednecks manage to capture one.  Before the furry aliens can do much damage, some lizard aliens that they're currently at war with jumps into orbit around Earth and chases the invaders off.  Earth allies itself with the lizards and agrees to send off an expeditionary force to fight on behalf of the lizards off-world.  The lizards see humans as backwards savages and treat them as such (think colonial troops fighting for the Imperial powers in the 19th century) and won't trust them with advanced tech or weapons.

Things take a turn when the same off duty soldier from Maine stumbles across an AI system that may be partially insane and that's when the series gets interesting.

I bought the first book for a buck.  Then the audible bastards sold me the audio version for four bucks.  I have a crack habit.

I got the audio books as well.  The narrator does a great job. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 17, 2017, 07:59:45 PM
I had grabbed the audiobook version of the four Alien movies (Alien, Aliens, Alien 3, and Alien Resurrection). I got about 80% of the way through the first book on my drive. I also have Beevor's Stalingrad on audiobook format as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 17, 2017, 09:51:28 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 17, 2017, 01:13:29 PM
From Ruin of the Roman Empire by James O'Donnell: "Civilization is a thing of the calm, the patient, the pragmatic, and the wise. We are not assured that it will triumph." Damn but that is a great final statement.

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 17, 2017, 10:17:20 PM
^I agree 😎

Will let you know about Lights Out, BC. Starting it now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on June 17, 2017, 10:23:16 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 17, 2017, 01:13:29 PM
From Ruin of the Roman Empire by James O'Donnell: "Civilization is a thing of the calm, the patient, the pragmatic, and the wise. We are not assured that it will triumph." Damn but that is a great final statement.

Now about to start "Lights Out - A Cyberattack - A Nation Unprepared - Surviving the Aftermath" by Ted Koppel.

Ted Koppel?!?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 17, 2017, 10:35:25 PM
Indeed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 19, 2017, 09:27:56 AM
I'm re-reading, "Hitler Strikes North-- The Nazi Invasion of Norway and Denmark, April 9, 1940" by Jack Greene & Alessandro Massignani while I'm waiting for my next read, "Maximinus Thrax-- From Common Soldier to Emperor of Rome" because I can't pass by a good Roman Emperor story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 19, 2017, 09:29:38 AM
'Maxiumus Thrax' should be the name of a fighter in my next D&D AAR.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2017, 09:31:55 AM
Star already took that name for...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2017, 09:47:46 AM
Sir Slash: Harry Sidebottom (Warrior of Rome series) has another series now called Iron and Rust: Throne of the Caesars, which fictionalizes Thrax's life and world. If you've never read the Warrior of Rome series, it is awesome...I would expect nothing less from his new series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 19, 2017, 10:19:13 AM
That sounds great Gus. I'll confess here to being a total Rome Whore when it comes to all their power-hungry, mad Emperors--- so unlike what we have today of course.  ::)   This guy was supposed to be 8ft. tall! The other book is one of my favorites too( Hitler Strikes North). The authors have written a bunch of WWII books about the war in the Med and N. Africa. I'll check-out Sidebottom. Thanks for the tip.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2017, 01:13:42 PM
I've only read the first two Warrior of Rome books by Sidebottom but they are both excellent. I have books 3 & 4 waiting on my to-read shelf. If you would like me to ship 1&2 down to you send me a PM.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 19, 2017, 02:10:48 PM
When I get caught-up I'll probably do just that. Thanks Gus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2017, 02:28:12 PM
You got it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bison on June 19, 2017, 02:36:23 PM
Stopped by Barnes and Noble to pick up Gene Wolfe's Shadow and Claw, but they wanted over $20 for a paperback.  Ridiculous.  I'll be scouring used book stores for this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2017, 05:35:01 PM
Copy here for 1.91:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/0312890176/ref=tmm_pap_used_olp_sr?ie=UTF8&condition=used&qid=1497911674&sr=1-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 20, 2017, 09:45:52 AM
Aliens: Bug Hunt kind of sucks, in retrospect. The stories are pretty rookie and not well-written. Some are better than others for certain, but overall it's pretty mediocre.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on June 23, 2017, 06:22:48 PM
Anxiously awaiting Oathbringer.

Beyond that waiting on Butcher to finish the next Dresden Files book...seems like he's taking a page from GRRMartin's playbook
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 24, 2017, 10:35:43 AM
Hue 1968 by Mark Bowden

http://www.nationalreview.com/article/448934/hue-1968-review-key-vietnam-battle
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on June 24, 2017, 12:43:31 PM
Thought I'd try something different so bought this sci-fi thingie for a light summer read:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51drYsyx7VL.jpg)

The free sample was pretty good, with the protagonist leading a platoon of the 173d Airborne in the thick of it at Afganistan. Once they rotate out, they get a task to participate in the 70th Anniversary of the D-Day landing, jumping into Normandy on period gear as part of the anniversary celebrations. Only, the ghost C-47 drops them to actual D-Day.

It all started very nicely, but soon got quite tedious, as the lost platoon mostly tried to stay out of everyone's way in fear of changing the flow of history, not to mention few other plot twists I did not much care for.

A neat idea for sure, but not something I'd recommend at the end. Too bad, really, it had promise, and the free sample covering the Stan part was pretty cool.

Stay clear...   :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 24, 2017, 05:58:08 PM
^ So, kind of like Martin Caidin's The Final Countdown then?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 24, 2017, 06:21:08 PM
The time has come for another MtG novel review from the original HarperPrism series. LOOK AWAY NOW LEST YOUR BOREDOM OVERCOME YOU!  >:D

I'm now up to Teri McLaren's Song of Time; and the book itself has finally returned to a plot set in "Dominaria", the main MtG plot continuity. Sort of. At this time, Wizards of the Coast (who own MtG, and eventually used profits from it and other games to buy TSR's title rights including freaking Dungeons and Dragons of all things) had released several decks dedicated to building actual stories into the game and its history. But authors still weren't trying to write those stories. SoT uses the war of the Brother Artificers as a backdrop to start the story in the first few chapters, and then skips ahead (past the Dark Age and the Ice Age) to an undefined time for a story that really has nothing to do with the plot of the cards anymore. It's better than no continuity, but still not what a fan would really want.

Despite having more plot connections to actual 'cards' in the game, the story itself (like all the series from Book 5 onwards) still seems like it was originally designed (if perhaps not written yet) as an independent fantasy novel and then got retrofitted to MtG details. The magic system is still quite generic (aside from some basic color-effect connections), and the plot connections to the Artificer War are so token that the Armageddon Clock in the story is totally different than what the card text talks about -- it isn't slowly killing everyone in the world (or both fighters or whatever), it's just a key to unlock a prison where a cockatrice has been trapped. And the cockatrice, a popular card back then, is a world-destroying monster (sort of, somehow) now nicknamed the Beast of Hours for no real reason, instead of being just this flying thing about the size of a horse (or large rooster) which turns victims to stone. (The back cover does at least show the relevant cards that the story is 'based' on.) The plot itself recognizes that a cockatrice shouldn't be that much of a threat, with some lampshading about how this one is unexpectedly stronger and more dangerous due to being summoned from another world. But it's still only the size of a horse.

Other connections to the card game are just as tacit and offhand. The main hero and his adopted dad (I think?) hails from the land of Argivia, which in the cards was the one nation (heavily invested in green cards) that was able to keep itself from being sucked into the world war between the brothers. But the story doesn't happen there, and that war has been done for thousands of years, and the only plot connection is just a side effect of the wars. Bleh.

The story itself, on its own merits, is just as competent as the prior ones so far in the series. Amusingly, like most prior authors, this one also has strong thematic connections to folk anthropology, and this time more directly to archaeology! It runs just over 288 pages, and packs quite a bit of plot and to-ing and fro-ing into that run (especially in the last half). But the author ends, not with a cliffhanger, but with an overt acknowledgement that the plot hasn't been resolved and that the story will continue.

Which it doesn't. Anywhere, as far as I know. HarperPrism's final MtG novels have nothing to do with this plot, and when WotC took back the rights to publish novels directly they ignored that this story was hanging.

So, while the book itself isn't bad, a good solid B overall and maybe stronger than that in context of its subgenre (of short adult magical fantasy based on another property), I'd have to recommend it last out of the entries I've covered so far, if anyone looked into picking up the series. What's there isn't strong enough to make the book worth reading on its own, over-against the unfinished story. That's admittedly subjective, but I can imagine going back and reading the prior books someday. I don't care to ever read this one again. It sounds harsh to say, but while it isn't a bad waste of time it was a waste of my time. (When I realized the story didn't seem likely to arrive anywhere solid in the remaining chapters, I thumbed through them quickly. Thus I was not disappointed. ;) )

A few more of these to go, but I've got to build up enough 1:5 'credit' reading some other things first.


Edited to add a link to my eventual review of the final two of this oddity of a "series": http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg676495#msg676495
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 24, 2017, 06:22:21 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 24, 2017, 05:58:08 PM
^ So, kind of like Martin Caidin's The Final Countdown then?

Are you actually suggesting to stay away from The Final Countdown?  :o  :knuppel2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 24, 2017, 06:27:37 PM
I honestly can't remember if I've read the original book. If I have, then I guess, um, yep?  >:D

I remember seeing the cover of it, and I have a vague recollection of 'reading' it. It is, however, possible that all I read was a novelization of the film. Caidin's actual novel might be better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 24, 2017, 06:31:45 PM
The Caidan book was simply a novelization of the film. It was an okay read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 24, 2017, 07:11:01 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 24, 2017, 06:27:37 PM
I honestly can't remember if I've read the original book. If I have, then I guess, um, yep?  >:D

I remember seeing the cover of it, and I have a vague recollection of 'reading' it. It is, however, possible that all I read was a novelization of the film. Caidin's actual novel might be better.

Gasp

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on June 25, 2017, 04:17:12 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 24, 2017, 05:58:08 PM
^ So, kind of like Martin Caidin's The Final Countdown then?

Ha, now there's a memory, I remember going to the movies when it came out, never to think about it again, too much. Was a decent movie, at the time, for a kid at least. Kudos for the Nimitz crew, at least they were not to go pussyfooting around, at least their intention was not to. And behaved like military throughout. 

Enough spoilers regarding the Back to Normandy book, though  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 26, 2017, 12:21:10 PM
Seeing the film a couple dozen times does not equal having read the book.  ::)


In a total coincidence by the way, the History Buff guy did a video on Tora, Tora, Tora (sort of as a protest against being constantly asked to do Pearl Harbor), and ended the video fangasming about the dogfight from FinalCount. There are actually some good stories about how film crews in that time just weren't prepared to deal with filming on a working carrier; how the Zeroes nearly did get fatally soft-killed by the F-14s, etc.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 26, 2017, 12:31:56 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 26, 2017, 12:21:10 PM
Seeing the film a couple dozen times does not equal having read the book.  ::)

No one is missing much if they didn't read the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 26, 2017, 01:33:54 PM
Today, they'd CGI a dogfight between an F-14 and an A6M2 to death. Back then, though, without said technology it was a fantastic display of piloting and skill, making the movie a helluva lot better than some CGI nonsense could provide.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 26, 2017, 01:41:04 PM
How's your lawn doing?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 26, 2017, 01:57:15 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 26, 2017, 01:41:04 PM
How's your lawn doing?

Dunno, I'm nowhere near it right now.  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 26, 2017, 02:15:55 PM
I am ashamed to say it took me until now to realize there's still a cat in your avatar, BC!  :hug:

Quote from: BC on June 26, 2017, 01:33:54 PM
Today, they'd CGI a dogfight between an F-14 and an A6M2 to death. Back then, though, without said technology it was a fantastic display of piloting and skill, making the movie a helluva lot better than some CGI nonsense could provide.

Whereas in this film, the only special effect for the dogfighting sequence was the scream of the wife of one of the stunt pilots when she first saw the footage of her husband in (mock) combat -- which then got mixed into the shriek of the F-14 engines at a key moment.  :o

When one of the stunt pilots can talk about, not only his helmet (with radio connections) but his wristwatch being blown out of the open canopy by the backblast from one of the stunts...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 07:48:22 AM
I am thinking of starting The Dark Tower series by Stephen King. Is it really wacky and out there or is it sorta grounded dark fantasy? Seeing the trailers for the upcoming movie got me interested.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 08:46:53 AM
Never read it, but I've wanted to, in a sado-masochistic way. I say that because I actually read through all of "The Stand" and it kind of turned me off from SK. Not that I was a huge fan of his in the first place; he has a few very awesome stories (The Mist is one of my favorites). Then he does 1500-page masturbatory fantasies like The Stand that makes you think "hey, this will get good again, right?" but never does.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 08:56:46 AM
I liked The Stand (book).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 08:59:09 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 08:56:46 AM
I liked The Stand (book).

I liked the start of it a lot. But it went downhill slowly but surely - for me anyway. Isn't it just?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 09:18:07 AM
I've been yelled at for enjoying The Shining (book) too. Finally got a copy of Salem's Lot that I will be reading this fall.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on June 27, 2017, 09:20:44 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 09:18:07 AM
I've been yelled at for enjoying The Shining (book) too. Finally got a copy of Salem's Lot that I will be reading this fall.

Both of those are far better books than The Stand... but I liked The Stand too.

The Dark Tower stuff I've read off and on, never in sequence, and never the whole series. Some of it is interesting, some not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 09:22:39 AM
Have you read the 1st Dark Tower? Is it worth reading?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on June 27, 2017, 09:25:17 AM
Nope, never read that one. Probably should to get a proper basing of the overall story....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 27, 2017, 09:34:05 AM
Stop messing around and read the Dark Tower series. Its excellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 09:37:52 AM
Have you read the 1st one?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on June 27, 2017, 09:39:34 AM
I've got all 7 books in the set, plus the additional book '4.1/2' which is interesting, but adds nothing to the main story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 10:23:45 AM
The Dork Tower is better than The Dark Tower...

(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e9/e6/d8/e9e6d8c24439b3430e603321235407cf--online-comics-game-ideas.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:15:42 PM
Maybe I will get the Dork Tower compilation instead.

Now I am torn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 12:18:38 PM
Are you cold and shamed, lying naked on the floor?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:19:13 PM
Yes but that's just Tuesday Afternoon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 12:19:53 PM
'Til Tuesday, voices carry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:20:47 PM
Moody Blues are WAY better than Til Tuesday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 12:22:02 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:20:47 PM
Moody Blues Fingernails down a blackboard are WAY better than Til Tuesday.

FTFY
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:22:53 PM
Hush hush.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 12:24:23 PM
 ???

Pistol Annies, or Deep Purple?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:25:45 PM
Neither?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 27, 2017, 12:27:53 PM
Fair enough. I've run out of song analogies.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:34:01 PM
~fin~
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 27, 2017, 12:50:50 PM
Quote from: BC on June 27, 2017, 12:19:53 PM
'Til Tuesday, voices carry.

I thought the boyfriend in that song showed remarkable restraint by waiting so long to tell the whiney girl to shut up.  I would have bought the guy a beer if I had heard about her at a bar. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2017, 12:54:10 PM
 :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on June 28, 2017, 01:09:11 PM
Picking up some classics, reading Company Commander now. I like his writing style very much, no bullsh*t, one day he just appears in France to lead his Coy. Read only the first few chapters, things are sure to pick up soon. First deployment to a quiet Sigfried line outpost, near a place called St Vith.

Nothing should happen near St Vith in winter 1944, I'm told.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51NjnPTBTJL._SY346_.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on June 28, 2017, 01:17:43 PM
Reread Red Phoenix for the first in 20+ years while on vacation this last week. 

One thing that dawned on me, both Red Phoenix and Red Storm Rising end the same general way.  Commies come out swinging, but when the US and their Allies get their footing and start kicking butt, there Commies have a change of government that ends the war.  We don't get see the Allies roll the Commies, or we see a little bit of it, but not much. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on June 28, 2017, 01:42:37 PM
It's a cool book but true, what is it with those commie governments  :))
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 28, 2017, 01:50:45 PM
It's fun to see ModernCommie!Rommel decide to stop screwing around and boot out his asinine leaders.  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 28, 2017, 01:56:26 PM
Re Dark Tower: I tried reading the 1st book ages ago, and it was faaaaarrr too whackadoo for me to stick with. And I finished The Talisman which King wrote with Straub. (And which served as a sort of thematic prequel to TDT. Eventually the story was retconned into being a parallel world connected to TDT.)

I'm actually glad to see the start of a big-budget adaptation, and I hope it's put together well and makes enough money to run the distance with quality adaptations; because I'd frankly rather watch it than read it.


Good pick on Salem's Lot, though. I quit reading King around the time he released Dolores Clairborn, and I still regard that as his best work proportionate to his page count.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 28, 2017, 02:53:39 PM
Too whackadoo for you, Pratt?? Hmm.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 28, 2017, 02:56:57 PM
I'm re-reading Hunt for Red October. Buddy gave me a first edition hardback copy the other day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on June 28, 2017, 07:36:46 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 28, 2017, 02:56:57 PM
I'm re-reading Hunt for Red October. Buddy gave me a first edition hardback copy the other day.

Nice...that's one of the only early Clancy novels I do not have.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 28, 2017, 07:42:26 PM
Quote from: jamus34 on June 28, 2017, 07:36:46 PM
Quote from: mirth on June 28, 2017, 02:56:57 PM
I'm re-reading Hunt for Red October. Buddy gave me a first edition hardback copy the other day.

Nice...that's one of the only early Clancy novels I do not have.

I owned all the early books in hardback 25 years ago. Then I sold them off and have regretted it ever since. I have a mix of hard/paperbacks now. Really glad to have Hunt for Red October in hardback again. Pretty cool of my buddy, same guy who gave me a hardback 1st edition of Salem's Lot on my birthday.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 28, 2017, 10:38:45 PM
I didn't like the book, but the movie was decent enough. I saw it in IMAX back in the day; it was the first movie theater (or one of the first) to show a movie in IMAX in the country, and my best friend's dad had made the lens for the camera, so they had a bunch of free passes for the premier and brought me along. Hunt For Red October was that first movie.

Red Army is pretty good...I might re-read that one. I remember it being a bit of a slog in places, though.

Harold Coyle's series of books are pretty good too, but there's only so many major wars a character can go through before you start wondering why the world isn't an ashen, crispy ruin by the ninth one. I did like Sword Point, though; that one sticks out in my mind for some reason, though it's been 30 or so years since I read it last. The Ten Thousand was the last book of his I read; I think it was a good idea but the entire scenario was implausible to me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 06:57:46 AM
Reading One Year After by William Forschten, the 2nd in the series. A little more hokey than the first but not bad at 125 pages in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 07:26:39 AM
You should try 1945 by Forschten and Gingrich. It was way the hell out there but the whole bit with Skorzeny conducting raids on American soil was interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 07:40:55 AM
I don't dabble a lot in WWII alternate history stuff. ACW and WWI alternate history I dig.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 07:42:50 AM
Quote from: BC on June 30, 2017, 07:26:39 AM
You should try 1945 by Forschten and Gingrich. It was way the hell out there but the whole bit with Skorzeny conducting raids on American soil was interesting.

Fun read. I wish they had done the follow-on books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on June 30, 2017, 07:47:27 AM
Forstchen's The Lost Regiment series was excellent. Would make an awesome move.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 07:50:52 AM
Quote from: bbmike on June 30, 2017, 07:47:27 AM
Forstchen's The Lost Regiment series was excellent. Would make an awesome move.  O0

A Lost Regiment movie has been rumored for many years. I think it was optioned at least once,  but nothing came out of it.

I liked the first few books, but they became repetitive as the series went on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 07:52:08 AM
As long as you stay away from Harry Turtledove. Paint drying is far more exciting than his pedantic plots.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 07:53:51 AM
Never read him on the advice of almost everyone here.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 07:55:04 AM
Quote from: BC on June 30, 2017, 07:52:08 AM
As long as you stay away from Harry Turtledove. Paint drying is far more exciting than his pedantic plots.

Yep. I've tried many times to read Turtledove. Never made it past the first chapter of anything he's written.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 07:56:40 AM
I hate stories where a Confederate units get AK47s or a Roman legion lands on Mars.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 07:57:13 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 30, 2017, 07:50:52 AM
Quote from: bbmike on June 30, 2017, 07:47:27 AM
Forstchen's The Lost Regiment series was excellent. Would make an awesome move.  O0

A Lost Regiment movie has been rumored for many years. I think it was optioned at least once,  but nothing came out of it.

I liked the first few books, but they became repetitive as the series went on.

I think the first four are pretty amazing; it's one of my favorite series ever. The fourth is pushing it a bit (not sure if it's the third or fourth one where they defend the Rome/Roma area or not). I did read a few after that but I don't remember the plots from them.

There was indeed a movie in the works, which got me all excited. I don't even see it showing up on IMDB anymore. Forstchen.com's last update on this was from 2007 I think. A shame, but then again, considering Hollywood's track record, they'd find a way to screw it up and make it pander to the Chinese market.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 07:58:59 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 07:56:40 AM
I hate stories where a Confederate units get AK47s or a Roman legion lands on Mars.

As stupid as those concepts sound, you'd think they could at least be fun in a pulpy sorta way. Turtledove just makes everything dull.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 08:00:23 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 07:56:40 AM
I hate stories where a Confederate units get AK47s or a Roman legion lands on Mars.

Guns of the South was...an okay read. It was the ONLY book Turtledove did that was readable for me (admittedly I read it early on before I even knew who he was - I worked at Waldenbooks at the time and saw the hardcover with Lee on the cover holding an AK-47 and that got me all moist in the cockles of my alt-history heart).

I tried his Roman Legion series (the Videossis Cycle? Something like that, I don't care enough to look it up) where a Roman legion is transported to another planet, and I couldn't get through it.

Turtledove's books are like what's wrong with trailers these days. Trailer-makers can make any movie look like the most amazing thing ever, but when you go see it, the movie sucks balls. That's Turtledove in a nutshell - great ideas, awesomely shitty and boring executions.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 08:01:27 AM
Quote from: BC on June 30, 2017, 07:57:13 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 30, 2017, 07:50:52 AM
Quote from: bbmike on June 30, 2017, 07:47:27 AM
Forstchen's The Lost Regiment series was excellent. Would make an awesome move.  O0

A Lost Regiment movie has been rumored for many years. I think it was optioned at least once,  but nothing came out of it.

I liked the first few books, but they became repetitive as the series went on.

I think the first four are pretty amazing; it's one of my favorite series ever. The fourth is pushing it a bit (not sure if it's the third or fourth one where they defend the Rome/Roma area or not). I did read a few after that but I don't remember the plots from them.

There was indeed a movie in the works, which got me all excited. I don't even see it showing up on IMDB anymore. Forstchen.com's last update on this was from 2007 I think. A shame, but then again, considering Hollywood's track record, they'd find a way to screw it up and make it pander to the Chinese market.

I think the fourth is where I stopped reading. Those first 2-3 where excellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 08:02:21 AM
That's one of the few series that actually gets better the further into it you get...at least for those first three or four books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 08:03:23 AM
Quote from: BC on June 30, 2017, 08:00:23 AM
Turtledove's books are like what's wrong with trailers these days. Trailer-makers can make any movie look like the most amazing thing ever, but when you go see it, the movie sucks balls. That's Turtledove in a nutshell - great ideas, awesomely shitty and boring executions.

That's why I've tried reading his stuff so many times. The jacket synopsis always sounds really cool and the cover art looks great, but what's inside sucks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 08:04:22 AM
Come for the great ideas, stay for the shitty, boring executions!

Since I do love steampunk and dieselpunk genres, that is probably directly related to my like of older alternate history with a nice dash of plausible tech and events. Nothing too out there, like Star wearing underwear or a sober Toonces.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 08:06:15 AM
Quote from: BC on June 30, 2017, 08:02:21 AM
That's one of the few series that actually gets better the further into it you get...at least for those first three or four books.

The problem I had was the basic formula was pretty much the same in every book.  Big bad threatens, good guys lose the first fight (usually because of some betrayal), good guys lick their wounds and find some clever way to win the desperate final battle. Rinse, repeat in the next book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 08:08:55 AM
Try reading the Axis of Time trilogy by John Birmingham. The guy that writes it should be what hack fraud Turtledove and his legion of no-name equally-awful copycats should aspire to.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Axis_of_Time

The characters are both fictional and historical, the situations believable, the character interaction interesting, and the action is all kinds of awesome. Check out the first book in the series.

The premise is way the hell out there but pfft, if it's well written you can easily overlook that. I devoured all three books in the series and I'm one of the harshest judges of alt-history (see: Turtledove (natch), Robert Conroy, et al).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 08:11:48 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 30, 2017, 08:06:15 AM
Quote from: BC on June 30, 2017, 08:02:21 AM
That's one of the few series that actually gets better the further into it you get...at least for those first three or four books.

The problem I had was the basic formula was pretty much the same in every book.  Big bad threatens, good guys lose the first fight (usually because of some betrayal), good guys lick their wounds and find some clever way to win the desperate final battle. Rinse, repeat in the next book.

True enough. But you really get a feel for how ingenious humans can be, when they put aside their differences and have a common enemy. The time period is perfect since so many soldiers of the time came from so many backgrounds, they really were a microcosm of society and could easily create a mini-industrial revolution on the planet they were on.

One thing I wanted to see more of in that series was, more of a history of how it happened instead of the occasional dribbits of info from the people-eaters. It's pretty obvious they devolved greatly from what they once were; I wanted to read about how that happened. Not sure if he gets into it in the later books or not. I know they got their airships from the 'burial mounds' and some aliens died from what was apparently radiation poisoning, but he didn't get much further into it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 08:13:28 AM
Thanks BC, I will. Come for the alt history, stay for the hack/fraud! I love it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 08:18:14 AM
Hahahaha  :bd:

The Axis of Time trilogy has all kinds of tongue-in-cheek references, too, that are hilarious. Some are less subtle than others. For example, the flagship of the multinational fleet is the supercarrier USS Hillary Clinton, "the United States' greatest wartime president."  :2funny: ;D Before you let that turn you off from it, trust me, it's well worth a read, and that name doesn't come up that often. I laughed out loud every time it did though, but felt like I was laughing at some inside joke rather than the stupidity of what I was reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 30, 2017, 08:27:55 AM
I remember seeing you guys laughing your asses off at that in other posts around here.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 08:29:32 AM
I don't think I can tolerate any version of history where Hillary is president.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 30, 2017, 11:02:47 AM
How about where she's Emperor? And Bill becomes a monk and goes to live in a monastery. Run by Amazon Death-Girls. And A. Weiner is his room mate. Could you tolerate that?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on June 30, 2017, 11:07:07 AM
Quote from: mirth on June 30, 2017, 08:29:32 AM
I don't think I can tolerate any version of history where Hillary is president.

RIGHT there with you, trust me. But he's such a good writer he made it kind of an in-joke. At least, that's the way I took it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 11:07:47 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on June 30, 2017, 11:02:47 AM
How about where she's Emperor? And Bill becomes a monk and goes to live in a monastery. Run by Amazon Death-Girls. And A. Weiner is his room mate. Could you tolerate that?

possibly
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 30, 2017, 10:21:00 PM
Very open-minded of you.  :clap:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 30, 2017, 10:24:45 PM
I am always open minded
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 01, 2017, 03:38:05 PM
"Open minded" is Maine for "open container."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 01, 2017, 05:10:14 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 11, 2017, 08:11:17 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on June 11, 2017, 02:16:32 PM
I just started reading The Big Switch, book 3 in The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove. :coolsmiley:

I'll be interested to see if you dislike the main plot change as much as I did.

Sorry for the delay but I've had some things come up that held up my reading and I have only just now finished reading The Big Switch. While it was somewhat of a surprise, I did not really dislike the main plot change. It is alternate history after all and--unlike historical fiction--anything goes.

Next on my reading agenda is Coup d'État, book 4 in The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove. I never read much (if any) alternate history and I am enjoying reading this series of books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on July 02, 2017, 07:11:42 AM
Axis of Time was awesome. He's written a trilogy of novellas set in the 50's that seems to be setting up for another series.

His After America series was also well done.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 02, 2017, 07:32:36 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on July 02, 2017, 07:11:42 AM
Axis of Time was awesome. He's written a trilogy of novellas set in the 50's that seems to be setting up for another series.

His After America series was also well done.

+1
I've read both the Axis of Time series and After America.
The former did have a somewhat abrupt jump between the second and third book, almost as if the author had originally planned several more but then decided to wrap it all up. Yet then came the novellas...
The After America series definitely left the door open for a fourth book.

For those of you who are used to reading alt-history written by guys like turtledove and Conroy, you may find Birmigham's style a little more gritty. He also Tuckerizes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuckerization) quite a bit in his books.

I've yet to read the Stalin's Hammer novellas. Soon...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on July 02, 2017, 07:37:10 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on July 02, 2017, 07:32:36 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on July 02, 2017, 07:11:42 AM
Axis of Time was awesome. He's written a trilogy of novellas set in the 50's that seems to be setting up for another series.

His After America series was also well done.

+1
I've read both the Axis of Time series and After America.
The former did have a somewhat abrupt jump between the second and third book, almost as if the author had originally planned several more but then decided to wrap it all up. Yet then came the novellas...
The After America series definitely left the door open for a fourth book.

For those of you who are used to reading alt-history written by guys like turtledove and Conroy, you may find Birmigham's style a little more gritty. He also Tuckerizes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuckerization) quite a bit in his books.

I've yet to read the Stalin's Hammer novellas. Soon...

Oh my god! You made a Wilson Tucker reference! One of my favorite authors of all time. So few seem to know his work. (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Fpics%2Fworship.gif&hash=5710f5bfb020c671b0d5b3957c76f589f2922b06)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on July 02, 2017, 09:43:29 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on July 02, 2017, 07:32:36 AM
Quote from: Pinetree on July 02, 2017, 07:11:42 AM
Axis of Time was awesome. He's written a trilogy of novellas set in the 50's that seems to be setting up for another series.

His After America series was also well done.

+1
I've read both the Axis of Time series and After America.
The former did have a somewhat abrupt jump between the second and third book, almost as if the author had originally planned several more but then decided to wrap it all up. Yet then came the novellas...
The After America series definitely left the door open for a fourth book.

For those of you who are used to reading alt-history written by guys like turtledove and Conroy, you may find Birmigham's style a little more gritty. He also Tuckerizes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuckerization) quite a bit in his books.

I've yet to read the Stalin's Hammer novellas. Soon...
I'm part way into the second, Cairo. Rome was pretty good with it's description of life there, an alt-version of Cold War Berlin. I bought the omnibus edition of all 3 for kindle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 02, 2017, 09:50:52 AM
I picked up the kindle omnibus as well. Just have not gotten to it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on July 04, 2017, 08:29:08 AM
Quote from: Crossroads on June 28, 2017, 01:09:11 PM
Picking up some classics, reading Company Commander now. I like his writing style very much, no bullsh*t, one day he just appears in France to lead his Coy. Read only the first few chapters, things are sure to pick up soon. First deployment to a quiet Sigfried line outpost, near a place called St Vith.

Nothing should happen near St Vith in winter 1944, I'm told.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51NjnPTBTJL._SY346_.jpg)

Was a nice read, recommended. It was written in 1947, so while there's perhaps better "Coy commander" books around from modern era, for instance Nathaniel Flick's (of the Generation Kill fame) "One Bullet Away", Company Commander painted a very rich picture of a very young Captain leading a Coy made of citizen soldiers, from October '44 to end of war, being afraid under barrage, cheering when some one else got the call to go into harm's way, yet performed their duties when the call came.

Next, back to if not sci-fi then alternative reality with

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51ltazn93cL._SY346_.jpg).

January 1945: As Hitler's Germany and Tojo's Japan collapse, General George Marshall dies unexpectedly days before the critical Yalta Conference. His successor as US Army Chief of Staff, General Douglas MacArthur, flies halfway around the world to butt heads with Josef Stalin and change history.

The first a couple of chapters done, Marshall had his heart attack, and Mac Arthur's left the PTO towards Jalta, already with his list of keepers and leavers, Ike being in the latter category by the way. Ha.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on July 05, 2017, 10:17:04 AM
some of y'all I'm sure would be "reading" this, huh?

(https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/19598900_1545303202195808_6181103932823481134_n.jpg?oh=2940e4020131eb7852e4ba022a6c8254&oe=5A0E2300)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 05, 2017, 04:45:05 PM
I'm halfway through Freehold by Michael Z. Williamson.  You can get the ebook for free.
It has held my interest.  Sort of a Libertarian Paradise with awesome people in the Military.  Sort of Starship Troopers politically with a lot more sex.

I'm close to finishing Tank Commander by Bill Close.  It is an ok WW2 Memoir about a Brit Tanker who got 8 tanks shot out from under him.  He was a tanker in the 1930s.  First couple of "battles" he hardly fired a shot in the 3rd Royal Tank Regiment who were defeated around Calais and in Greece and lost all of their equipment.

I'm almost through The Dark Valley by Brendon which is a very depressing book about the major nations in the 1930s (UK, France, USSR, USA, Japan, China) and how totally screwed up they were.  It is interesting, but very depressing.

I finished the first book in The Laundry series by Charles Stross - The Atrocity Archives.  It goes better as an audio book than a live read.  It is a really interesting mash up of Cthulhu, horrible bureaucracy, and Harry Dresden.  I highly recommend it.   

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on July 06, 2017, 09:18:57 AM
Quote from: Crossroads on July 04, 2017, 08:29:08 AM

Next, back to if not sci-fi then alternative reality with

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51ltazn93cL._SY346_.jpg).

January 1945: As Hitler's Germany and Tojo's Japan collapse, General George Marshall dies unexpectedly days before the critical Yalta Conference. His successor as US Army Chief of Staff, General Douglas MacArthur, flies halfway around the world to butt heads with Josef Stalin and change history.

The first a couple of chapters done, Marshall had his heart attack, and Mac Arthur's left the PTO towards Jalta, already with his list of keepers and leavers, Ike being in the latter category by the way. Ha.

Finished the book, the author's written a few military histories of and it tells, he built the alt reality quite nicely tweaking things a bit here and there - having had MacArthur take over first of course. He's obviously building up for his book two, where Patton gets his fight vs Zukov apparently, here the story finishes just as the US and Soviet forces close on each other. So all things still peaceful between the sides, if just.

It could have kept a better focus imho though, the number of POV characters just keeps adding up. Then again, he seems again to build for his sequels, it is obvious things are going to stay heated in PTO as well, not just in ETO.

For 0.99 not a bad read, at all, I'll give it a solid 3,5 stars out of five. I'll likely get the sequel once they come out. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2017, 04:10:20 PM
Began reading The Reivers - The Story of the Border Reivers by Alistair Moffat.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 10, 2017, 04:14:05 PM
 :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2017, 04:21:33 PM
It's some neighbors you've got to the north here, Sir. Quite the cast of characters.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 10, 2017, 05:05:30 PM
Indeed it is.

"Oi, you in the kilt. Put that bloody cow down and bugger off"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 10, 2017, 06:32:40 PM
Oi, that's no kilt. It's me Mum's drapes. And, the bloody cow started it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 10, 2017, 07:06:15 PM
I finished Invasion: Alaska finally. It was okay. It had moments but I could tell the author was trying way too hard to be like Tom Clancy in Red Storm Rising; his ability to weave narrative about weapons systems was halting and juvenile, but I stuck with it. The ending was rushed and there were some head-scratching moments in it, too.

I get a freebie every month with Prime, so I went ahead and got Invasion: California, the next one in the series. It starts off a LOT better than any part of Invasion: Alaska, so here's hoping it continues to do well. I'm hoping the author improved his prose significantly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 10, 2017, 07:51:46 PM
I recently finished A Blaze of Glory followed immediately by A Chain of Thunder, both by Jeff Shaara.  Not bad books, but man, I just do not groove on Shaara's writing style in large doses.  There's another book in the series released, but I'm sort of full of the way he writes.  I swear, every scene Grant and Sherman are lighting up cigars.  I mean, I know they smoked a lot of cigars, but it gets tiresome to read how in every scene they're "reaching for a cigar, face surrounded by the warming smoke" etc., etc.

With those out of the way, I've gone back to finish Shelby Foote's third in his Civil War Trilogy.  Also trying to finish The Rules of the Game, but I had to start from the beginning since it's been so long since I put it down.

Finally, I've decided upon Les Miserables as my summer reading project.  I'm 20% through, so I think I might actually finish it...only like 800 pages to go.   ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 11, 2017, 04:58:31 AM
I finished 'Les Miserables' not too long ago. Its actually quite hard going in places although it is a good story. Unfortunately, he often goes off into descriptions of places and people that really don't mean much unless you are familiar with 19th century France.

I admit it took me quite a time to finish it as I would leave it for periods and then go back to it.

I also recently finished the 2 volumes by Hozier about the Franco-Prussian War and the subsequent uprising in Paris. Victor Hugo's name crops up several times as a participant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 11, 2017, 06:24:03 AM
Lovelace star Amanda Seyfried: Les Mis would make a great porn parody (http://metro.co.uk/2013/08/19/lovelace-star-amanda-seyfried-les-mis-would-make-a-great-porn-parody-3929719/)

Of course, the UK would report this.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 12, 2017, 10:40:07 AM
I just picked up this book last week:


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fstore.nationalww2museum.org%2Fmedia%2Fcatalog%2Fproduct%2Fcache%2F1%2Fimage%2F9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95%2F1%2F9%2F19217.jpg&hash=fc527ca156f30aea9e874c3dd1dc4ab2abf9886e)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 12, 2017, 05:40:40 PM
Makes you wonder what subliminal process caused to the ice planet in Empire Strikes Back to be named 'Hoth'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 12, 2017, 06:55:52 PM
I got that one in my library right now W8. Good book but I wish it had been longer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on July 12, 2017, 07:33:45 PM
Just started this. Single-volume history of the NZ Div in WW2. Great read so far, lots of photos, tables and maps.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnoted-cdn.azureedge.net%2Fuploads%2FListener%2F2015%2F01%2FA-Bloody-Road-Home.jpg&hash=fd816c781a7d97afe9ecd1c954f7ea106c54dda0)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on July 12, 2017, 07:37:17 PM
Finished Prit Buttar's "Collision of Empires: The War on the Eastern Front in 1914" which gives a good detailed account of the fighting and decision making.

Just started his "Germany Ascendant: The Eastern Front 1915".

Also finished "July 1914: Countdown to War" by Sean McMeekin. The book provides great insight into the political and diplomatic thinking during the July Crisis and how war could have been adverted many times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 12, 2017, 09:28:49 PM
Buttar's books about WWI on the Eastern Front are great. The third book is, "Russia's Last Gasp" and the fourth and final book is due out in September if I remember correctly and already on my 'must have' list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on July 12, 2017, 10:34:51 PM
Yes, I am working my way through Buttar's series. I really liked Norman Stone's book on the Eastern Front too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 13, 2017, 04:24:56 AM
One day I will read all of Buttar's books. Slash has got me started, like a drug dealer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 13, 2017, 07:36:16 AM
You fargin' bastages. Added that Collision of Empires to my wishlist.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 13, 2017, 08:16:22 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on July 12, 2017, 05:40:40 PM
Makes you wonder what subliminal process caused to the ice planet in Empire Strikes Back to be named 'Hoth'.

I know right?


Quote from: Sir Slash on July 12, 2017, 06:55:52 PM
I got that one in my library right now W8. Good book but I wish it had been longer.

Yeah and the print is really big which is great for my old tired eyes but I can already tell after finishing the first chapter that I wish there was more.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 13, 2017, 09:50:26 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on July 12, 2017, 07:37:17 PM
Finished Prit Buttar's "Collision of Empires: The War on the Eastern Front in 1914" which gives a good detailed account of the fighting and decision making.

Just started his "Germany Ascendant: The Eastern Front 1915".

Also finished "July 1914: Countdown to War" by Sean McMeekin. The book provides great insight into the political and diplomatic thinking during the July Crisis and how war could have been adverted many times.

I've read Collision and it was very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 17, 2017, 06:52:26 PM
I  just read the first book in the Axis of Time trilogy, Weapons of Choice.  I thought it was so-so.

1.  I would have loved for the author to spend more time describing the ships, their systems, and their designed uses.  There were bits and pieces of this, but there seemed to be so much left unsaid. 

2.  It's touched on a few times, but not really explored, on the fact that the weapons they brought with them, is all they're going to have for a long time.  There should have been a more thought put into how best to use those weapons.  The knowledge that the Allies would win and about how long it would take was brought back.  Yamamoto was right that the Allies wasted a lot of weapons using them the way they did. 

3.  It seemed like the author was trying to pursue too many story lines, but never seemed to progress them very far or in much depth.  I understand this is just the first book, but they just seemed hollow.

4.  The best thing that I think the author did was the social impacts and conflicts when throwing people from 80 years difference together.  It might have been nice to see Nimitz or FDR drop the hammer on a couple of flag officers with an either accept it or your out ultimatum. 

I'll probably get the other books, but I'm not in a hurry to get them. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 17, 2017, 08:36:26 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on July 17, 2017, 06:52:26 PM
I  just read the first book in the Axis of Time trilogy, Weapons of Choice.  I thought it was so-so.

1.  I would have loved for the author to spend more time describing the ships, their systems, and their designed uses.  There were bits and pieces of this, but there seemed to be so much left unsaid. 

2.  It's touched on a few times, but not really explored, on the fact that the weapons they brought with them, is all they're going to have for a long time.  There should have been a more thought put into how best to use those weapons.  The knowledge that the Allies would win and about how long it would take was brought back.  Yamamoto was right that the Allies wasted a lot of weapons using them the way they did. 

3.  It seemed like the author was trying to pursue too many story lines, but never seemed to progress them very far or in much depth.  I understand this is just the first book, but they just seemed hollow.

4.  The best thing that I think the author did was the social impacts and conflicts when throwing people from 80 years difference together.  It might have been nice to see Nimitz or FDR drop the hammer on a couple of flag officers with an either accept it or your out ultimatum. 

I'll probably get the other books, but I'm not in a hurry to get them.

I mostly liked it.  But the female NYT writer who suddenly gained automatic weapons skills was annoying if I'm remembering correctly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on July 17, 2017, 10:15:46 PM
Quote from: OJsDad on July 17, 2017, 06:52:26 PM
I  just read the first book in the Axis of Time trilogy, Weapons of Choice.  I thought it was so-so.

I read 'em a few years ago and your assessment of "so-so" reflects my view as well. Lot of potential in that storyline but execution wasn't what it could have been.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2017, 07:16:26 AM
Just began the Steampunk Cthuhlu compilation, ~15 different authors and stories.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 28, 2017, 07:32:40 AM
'Revelation Space' trilogy by Alastair Reynolds.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 28, 2017, 07:52:57 AM
Just finished Horowitz' second article/speech collection. It's sort of mindblowing to be reminded that back in the 90s the Clintons were intentionally deprecating national security resulting in major leaks to Russia and even selling military secrets. We clearly got grazed by that bullet again! (Though whether we dodged into another bullet remains to be seen...  :hide: )

Back to It Never Snows in September.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 28, 2017, 08:03:39 AM
Just started Teddy Suhren, Ace of Aces: Memoirs of a U-Boat Rebel (https://www.amazon.com/Teddy-Suhren-Ace-Aces-Memoirs/dp/1591148510). A little short for my taste (only 224 pages), but still, a great read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2017, 12:07:59 PM
Like me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 28, 2017, 01:35:11 PM
You're a great read? Or a U-Boat captain?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2017, 01:39:48 PM
Both.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 28, 2017, 01:59:25 PM
And too short for some people's tastes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2017, 05:31:35 PM
Not you though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 07, 2017, 05:34:09 PM
The book is a little short...I don't get but about 15 minutes a night or so to read and I'm almost 3/4 of the way through it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Labbug on August 08, 2017, 08:30:27 AM
Finally finished the last book of "A Tale of the Malazan Book of the Fallen" by Steve Erikson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 08, 2017, 12:32:34 PM
I finished reading Coup d'État and Two Fronts, books 4 and 5 in The War That Came Early series by Harry Turtledove. I am now reading Last Orders, the 6th and last book of the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 08, 2017, 01:07:19 PM
Quote from: Labbug on August 08, 2017, 08:30:27 AM
Finally finished the last book of "A Tale of the Malazan Book of the Fallen" by Steve Erikson.

I've heard good things about the series, but haven't tried getting into it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Labbug on August 08, 2017, 03:12:23 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 08, 2017, 01:07:19 PM
Quote from: Labbug on August 08, 2017, 08:30:27 AM
Finally finished the last book of "A Tale of the Malazan Book of the Fallen" by Steve Erikson.

I've heard good things about the series, but haven't tried getting into it yet.


I enjoyed the read but you do have to put some effort into it.  There are many characters and many threads with one over arching story.  It can be hard to keep things straight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 09, 2017, 11:26:45 AM
No problems with that here!  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 10, 2017, 09:50:46 AM
Finished reading The Truth Machine by James Halperin a couple days ago.  Not the most gripping read, but still pretty decent.  I enjoyed the characters, and found the story an interesting (if unrealistic) premise. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 10, 2017, 04:36:34 PM
I'm back to reading the Honor Harrington books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 10, 2017, 04:38:20 PM
Quote from: bob48 on August 10, 2017, 04:36:34 PM
I'm back to reading the Honor Harrington books.

O0

I need to get back to the second one. The first one was brilliant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 10, 2017, 04:39:44 PM
I've read the first three so far and nothing negative to say about them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 11, 2017, 12:54:49 AM
Quote from: bob48 on August 10, 2017, 04:36:34 PM
I'm back to reading the Honor Harrington books.
You must be sending me telepathic signals, Bawb.  I just started re-reading On Baselisk Station on Tuesday.  :) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 11, 2017, 06:20:08 AM
Excellent  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 11, 2017, 06:21:45 AM
Quote from: bob48 on August 11, 2017, 06:20:08 AM
Excellent  :bd:

(https://static1.squarespace.com/static/54499378e4b003f5babae12f/t/5678c74b4bf118d6ee51fd5a/1450755926438/)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2017, 08:53:45 AM
Fate of Nations - Einstein Must Die! By Chris Kohout. Steampunk/alternate history, excellent writing so far, 50 pages in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 10:11:31 AM
Just started The Empty Chair (last of the Diane Duane 'Rihannsu' books)

https://www.amazon.com/Empty-Chair-Star-Trek-Rihannsu/dp/1416508910
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on August 15, 2017, 11:03:21 AM
^Does the empty chair get filled by Ensign Horta?  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 11:06:45 AM
Ensign Munchkin
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 15, 2017, 12:09:08 PM
You rang?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 12:13:35 PM
Arm photon torpedoes!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 15, 2017, 12:20:28 PM
..and photo the arm toes while you're at it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 15, 2017, 12:22:12 PM
Aye Sirs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 12:25:30 PM
And bring me my hasenpfeffer!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 15, 2017, 12:27:51 PM
Say what
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 12:29:51 PM
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 15, 2017, 01:05:50 PM
say what
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 01:10:06 PM
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 15, 2017, 01:17:44 PM
your mom
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 01:19:17 PM
Was a saint
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 15, 2017, 01:37:19 PM
She certainly was!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 15, 2017, 02:18:06 PM
Finished the Teddy Suhren book, which was pretty good, but really short.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on August 15, 2017, 02:52:30 PM
Finished "Germany Ascendant: The Eastern Front 1915" by Prit Buttar. Great book and will definitely buy the next two in the series.

Reading "A Brief History of Medieval Warfare" by Peter Reid. So far so good about The Hundred Years' War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 15, 2017, 08:44:02 PM
Quote from: mirth on August 15, 2017, 10:11:31 AM
Just started The Empty Chair (last of the Diane Duane 'Rihannsu' books)

https://www.amazon.com/Empty-Chair-Star-Trek-Rihannsu/dp/1416508910
Heh.  I was actually wondering how long before I let myself reread the Rihannsu books again.  My favorite Star Trek novel series by far (and I've always been more of a TNG/DS9 fan overall)! 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 15, 2017, 08:45:58 PM
Quote from: Martok on August 15, 2017, 08:44:02 PM
Quote from: mirth on August 15, 2017, 10:11:31 AM
Just started The Empty Chair (last of the Diane Duane 'Rihannsu' books)

https://www.amazon.com/Empty-Chair-Star-Trek-Rihannsu/dp/1416508910
Heh.  I was actually wondering how long before I let myself reread the Rihannsu books again.  My favorite Star Trek novel series by far (and I've always been more of a TNG/DS9 fan overall)! 



It's a great series. Love Ensign Horta!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 16, 2017, 08:59:42 AM
Now reading a short book, Across the Reef: The Marine Assault of Tarawa (https://www.amazon.com/Across-Reef-Marine-Assault-Tarawa-ebook/dp/B01KTRH5Z6/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1502891933&sr=1-2&keywords=tarawa).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 20, 2017, 01:03:19 PM
Started Never Built New York by Greg Goldin and Sam Lubell.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 20, 2017, 03:19:33 PM
That reminds me, I read something called New York Deep (https://www.amazon.com/New-York-Deep-Andrew-Morgan-ebook/dp/B01N664XZ4) earlier this year - good story. It's free via Kindle if you're an Amazon Prime member.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 20, 2017, 04:43:05 PM
^Interesting...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 22, 2017, 05:36:59 PM
I'm almost 40% through Les Miserables.  I'm seeing the show in Providence in about a month...I'd really like to finish the book before I see the show, but wow is Hugo long-winded.

Having said that, I'm quite enjoying the story.  I particularly liked the Waterloo interlude...very well-written.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 22, 2017, 06:47:54 PM
I saw a production of Les Mis about 20 years ago with a cool rotating stage set. Good stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 22, 2017, 08:04:42 PM
About to start God's Battalions: The Case for the Crusades by Rodney Stark.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 22, 2017, 10:07:41 PM
Oooh. That sounds good. Can you make a case for reading it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 22, 2017, 10:25:27 PM
I just read a passage in Les Mis, I don't think that's what you're referring to Slash but still...

It was amazing.  If you've read the book, it's the final portion of Cosette, where Jean Valjean contemplates his experience as a galley slave to that of a convent nun.  I don't want to spoil it.  It is perhaps one of the most moving pieces of writing I have ever read.  I actually stopped, took a break, re-read it on Kindle, took another break, then re-read it for a third time in hardback to see if the translation differed (it didn't).

I sometimes wonder at Hugo's long-windedness, but then I couldn't help feeling that the amount of time he spent on the background reinforced the gravity of what happened.  Not that it couldn't have been truncated or abridged.  But the time you invest in the story makes each climatic point more invested, if that makes sense.  So, while you could skip the whole convent discussion and get to the bottom line, somehow the extraordinarily long discussion of the convent makes you appreciate how it all works out all the more.

You have to want to appreciate the literature to get this.  If you just want to get from point A to B this is not the book.  For me, I'm enjoying the voyage.  There's probably a metaphor for today's youth in there somewhere...sometimes it's ok to take a really long time and, perhaps, never get to the end but enjoy the journey for what it was...

nah...that'll never fly.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 22, 2017, 10:52:20 PM
Since it's open domain, I'm happy to paste the portion of Les Mis into here if someone is interested.

It's not as awesome if you're not 400 pages invested into the story, but the writing is still very elegant and worth the investment in time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 23, 2017, 07:21:58 AM
Quote from: Toonces on August 22, 2017, 10:25:27 PM
You have to want to appreciate the literature to get this.  If you just want to get from point A to B this is not the book.  For me, I'm enjoying the voyage.  There's probably a metaphor for today's youth in there somewhere...sometimes it's ok to take a really long time and, perhaps, never get to the end but enjoy the journey for what it was...

I actually enjoy Shakespeare, myself. That's definitely about experiencing the journey of the prose and it's fascinating (probably just to me) to see what passed for humor hundreds of years ago. I was probably the only kid in English class that liked reading Shakespeare. :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on August 23, 2017, 07:47:28 AM
Quote from: Toonces on August 22, 2017, 10:25:27 PM
I just read a passage in Les Mis, I don't think that's what you're referring to Slash but still...

It was amazing.  If you've read the book, it's the final portion of Cosette, where Jean Valjean contemplates his experience as a galley slave to that of a convent nun.  I don't want to spoil it.  It is perhaps one of the most moving pieces of writing I have ever read.  I actually stopped, took a break, re-read it on Kindle, took another break, then re-read it for a third time in hardback to see if the translation differed (it didn't).

I sometimes wonder at Hugo's long-windedness, but then I couldn't help feeling that the amount of time he spent on the background reinforced the gravity of what happened.  Not that it couldn't have been truncated or abridged.  But the time you invest in the story makes each climatic point more invested, if that makes sense.  So, while you could skip the whole convent discussion and get to the bottom line, somehow the extraordinarily long discussion of the convent makes you appreciate how it all works out all the more.


Toonces, I know which passage you're talking about. I listened to Le Mis on audiobook a couple of years ago while running, and when I got to that passage I had to stop in the middle of my run and compose myself a bit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2017, 07:57:38 AM
Slash I am only ~15 pages in but I already think God's Battalions is worth reading, even if you have only a fleeting interest in the Crusades. It is the opposite of PC and is refreshing to read without being overbearing and is short at about 200 pages.

I also enjoyed Shakespeare. I used to work for Barnes and Noble, electronically typesetting books for them, and I worked on their in-house Shakespeare line. I actually read a lot of it while I was composing the books...not supposed to do that, but it was too interesting not to. That was a cool job.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 23, 2017, 10:01:39 AM
I worked at Book Stop a long time ago. I hated that job.  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 23, 2017, 10:07:44 AM
I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express once.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2017, 12:46:42 PM
Did you have your black light with you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on August 23, 2017, 04:26:29 PM
Reading Leviathan Wakes by James Corey
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 23, 2017, 05:48:43 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 23, 2017, 12:46:42 PM
Did you have your black light with you?

Aaaand we have the title for mirth's memoirs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 23, 2017, 05:52:26 PM
I was going to go with, "Hold my beer and watch this".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 23, 2017, 05:56:46 PM
That's pretty much a redneck mantra, and YOU, sir, do not strike me as a redneck.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 23, 2017, 05:58:34 PM
"Hold my bourbon and watch this."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 23, 2017, 05:59:19 PM
Add "stick yer pinky out" and that's a win.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 23, 2017, 09:46:38 PM
Real Crusades History (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpiumHmUE5EZeLTftxv9qGw) is a pretty great YT channel about various Crusades issues -- fairly neutral historically, credit and warts where they're due, without disrespect to anyone. They made their fame on the net by hosting a chat about Scott's Kingdom of Heaven (director's cut, although with noted differences between the theatrical and blu ray), lasting in total about as long as the director's cut. Essentially going scene by scene to opine on how close or far Ridley Scott and his writers (and occasionally the production crew) got to whatever we can figure out historically.

The first ep of that particular series starts here:

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2017, 09:51:58 PM
^That's pretty awesome, thank you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 24, 2017, 09:10:44 PM
Hey Martok- I really liked the way the Empty Chair ended. I didn't think the last couple books were great, but the ending was perfect.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on August 25, 2017, 07:45:23 AM
^It was all a dream that momma Horta on Janus VI was having?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 25, 2017, 02:55:17 PM
Just started, "Hue 1968" by Mark Bowden. Looks fantastic, and if it is anything like his "Black Hawk Down" and "Killing Pablo", it will not disappoint.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51ZaM3OUSNL._SX329_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 25, 2017, 04:50:34 PM
I finished reading Last Orders, the sixth and final book in Harry Turtledove's The War That Came Early series. For those unfamiliar with this series, it is a work in alternate history. The author uses the experiences of a dozen or so characters as the war with Hitler progresses, a style not unusual. Be advised that course language is sometimes used to flavor the text, so don't read this series of books if you are easily offended.

I enjoyed reading The War That Came Early series. They aren't the best books I have ever read but they were far from being the worst. I even learned a few nuggets of history by reading them.

Now I am reading Beren and Lúthien by J. R. R. Tolkien and edited by Christopher Tolkien. Lord of the Rings it is not. :(

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 25, 2017, 08:06:28 PM
Have you read The Silmarillion or Book of Lost Tales, Greybriar?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 26, 2017, 01:34:02 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on August 25, 2017, 08:06:28 PM
Have you read The Silmarillion or Book of Lost Tales, Greybriar?

Yes, I read them years ago but I don't remember much about them except that I didn't like them as much as The Lord of the Rings.

I guess I will have to re-read The Lord of the Rings...again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on August 26, 2017, 06:38:18 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on August 25, 2017, 04:50:34 PM
Now I am reading Beren and Lúthien by J. R. R. Tolkien and edited by Christopher Tolkien. Lord of the Rings it is not. :(


Thanks for the heads-up, Greybriar.  I still want to read it for myself, but I'll consider myself forewarned. 

I don't see how any of Tolkien's other Middle-Earth tales can come anywhere his LotR novels.  Very little (if any?) of his fictional materials were published as finished stories during his lifetime, and (with no disrespect to his son Christopher) it shows.  Even The Silmarillion, which I enjoy, doesn't have quite the same magic -- it reads like a combination biblical Old Testament & history textbook. 




Quote from: mirth on August 24, 2017, 09:10:44 PM
Hey Martok- I really liked the way the Empty Chair ended. I didn't think the last couple books were great, but the ending was perfect.
O0



Quote from: bbmike on August 25, 2017, 07:45:23 AM
^It was all a dream that momma Horta on Janus VI was having?
Don't be hatin'! 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on August 26, 2017, 08:39:19 AM
Quote from: Martok on August 26, 2017, 06:38:18 AM
Quote from: Greybriar on August 25, 2017, 04:50:34 PM
Now I am reading Beren and Lúthien by J. R. R. Tolkien and edited by Christopher Tolkien. Lord of the Rings it is not. :(
Thanks for the heads-up, Greybriar.  I still want to read it for myself, but I'll consider myself forewarned. 

I don't see how any of Tolkien's other Middle-Earth tales can come anywhere his LotR novels.  Very little (if any?) of his fictional materials were published as finished stories during his lifetime, and (with no disrespect to his son Christopher) it shows.  Even The Silmarillion, which I enjoy, doesn't have quite the same magic -- it reads like a combination biblical Old Testament & history textbook. 

I agree. It seems to me that only those who want to study Beren and Lúthien and learn all the hows and whys of its existence should read it. Those of us who are casual readers will find the book to contain slim pickings when compared to the literary feast that The Lord of the Rings is.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 26, 2017, 12:45:40 PM
JH please post impressions on Hue 1968, I've had my eye on it for a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 26, 2017, 02:06:46 PM
Hue you gonna call?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 26, 2017, 02:13:03 PM
Hue over my head!  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2017, 08:06:42 AM
Now reading Tragedy of the Templars - I think the author's name is Michael Haag.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 30, 2017, 01:22:33 PM
Can't find the post in the thread...wasn't there a title on the Eastern Front in World War 1 that was recommended recently? I thought I added it to my wish list but it's not coming up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 30, 2017, 01:33:51 PM
Was it 'Collision of Empires?'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2017, 01:43:23 PM
Prit Buttar (the author) comes up quite a bit here so it probably was Collision of Empires.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 30, 2017, 02:01:46 PM
Thanks, Gus.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2017, 02:06:03 PM
At your service!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 30, 2017, 03:48:51 PM
I just this morning pre-ordered his 4Th and final book of WWI on the Eastern Front, "Splintered Empires- The Eastern Front 1917 to 1921". It's due out Sept. 19th. I can't wait.  :bd:   The other 3 were great for anyone interested in this theater and time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 30, 2017, 03:52:36 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on August 30, 2017, 03:48:51 PM
I just this morning pre-ordered his 4Th and final book of WWI on the Eastern Front, "Splintered Empires- The Eastern Front 1917 to 1921". It's due out Sept. 19th. I can't wait.  :bd:   The other 3 were great for anyone interested in this theater and time.

Crap. I'll probably be ordering the first 3 tonight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 30, 2017, 04:20:14 PM
'The Armoured Campaign in Normandy, June-August 1944' by Stephen Napier.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 30, 2017, 10:57:32 PM
Ohhh. That sounds good. How many pages Bob?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 31, 2017, 05:41:40 AM
It's in excess of 400 and an interesting read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on August 31, 2017, 06:15:59 AM
Just saw this review.

https://www.strategypage.com/bookreviews/1537.asp

Sounds good for understanding ancient warfare.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 31, 2017, 08:04:11 AM
^Ooh that looks tasty.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 31, 2017, 08:13:36 AM
No way I'm clicking that link.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 31, 2017, 08:16:37 AM
Redirects to www.cakefarts.com

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 31, 2017, 08:40:14 AM
TASTY
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 31, 2017, 04:27:58 PM
I just started Hell Divers II (https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Divers-Ghosts-Trilogy-Book-ebook/dp/B01I5ZZDQW). The first Hell Divers (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BW6CG1Q/ref=series_rw_dp_sw) was a post-apocalyptic story of awesomeness. So totally different than what you usually read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 31, 2017, 04:32:39 PM
Anyone here read The Destroyermen series, or the Kirov series?

https://www.amazon.com/Into-Storm-Destroyermen-Book-I-ebook/dp/B001ANUOUM/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1504215025&sr=1-4&keywords=destroyermen

https://www.amazon.com/Kirov-Book-1-John-Schettler-ebook/dp/B007JKPEW8/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1504215151&sr=1-1&keywords=kirov+book+1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on August 31, 2017, 04:39:26 PM
^I recall the first book in the Destroyermen series being pretty good but that's all I read.
The other series I've never heard of. And are you aware that it says there are 31 books in that series!  :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 31, 2017, 04:41:45 PM
Yeah, that's exactly why I'm considering it - it's longevity. Same with the Kirov series. Not sure I'm too hot on the premise for Book 1 of Kirov, but hell, the author of that and the Destroyermen has to be doing something right, right? If you liked Destroyermen, bbmike, I might give it a shot.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 01, 2017, 09:21:24 AM
Anyone familiar with Mark Simner's work?

https://www.amazon.com/Pathan-Rising-Jihad-Frontier-1897-1898/dp/1781555400/ref=pd_cp_14_1/146-8081014-0710535?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=090ZGXARZGBSEXGZCRB8

https://www.amazon.com/Chitral-1895-Episode-Great-Game/dp/1781556180/ref=pd_sim_14_4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=H8P9WFAY2PFYBJW6H4R8

https://www.amazon.com/Sirdar-Khalifa-Kitcheners-Re-conquest-1896-98/dp/1781555885/ref=pd_sim_14_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=H8P9WFAY2PFYBJW6H4R8
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 06, 2017, 11:57:36 AM
http://thecooperreview.com/9-tricks-to-look-smart-in-a-book-club/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 06, 2017, 09:15:12 PM
I'm about to start Vampire Crusader by Dan Davis.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 10, 2017, 06:38:46 PM
I got about 85% through that first Destroyermen book last week. Extremely good writing, though it has shades of 'The Lost Regiment' in it. I expected a bit of that though it doesn't go to the extremes that Forschen did in his series. Though this has what, a dozen books in the series now?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 10, 2017, 06:47:00 PM
Humanoid Lemurs vs humanoid Velociraptors doesn't go the extremes Forstchen did?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on September 10, 2017, 07:45:09 PM
Picked this up at the Pentagon library.  After reading my Kindle for so long, it now feels odd to read an book with paper pages.

(https://i.imgur.com/YXrgLpZ.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 10, 2017, 07:46:47 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 10, 2017, 06:47:00 PM
Humanoid Lemurs vs humanoid Velociraptors doesn't go the extremes Forstchen did?

Insofar as building an entire military-industrial complex within the framework of the first book, no.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 11, 2017, 05:20:21 AM
^I thought Eisenhower Lemur warned them against that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 11, 2017, 06:09:37 AM
Quote from: bbmike on September 11, 2017, 05:20:21 AM
^I thought Eisenhower Lemur warned them against that.

LOL, I've not come across an Eisenhower lemur yet, but I found it interesting how quickly they built rudimentary copper cannons. I used The Lost Regiment, I suppose, as a watershed whilst reading that, because I recall the discussions the characters had in TLR regarding how they were going to build their first cannons and muskets to arm the Rus. I know absolutely nothing about any of how that works, but TLR was compelling and fascinating in its discussion. In Destroyermen it was pretty much "we need cannons" "ok" *poof" "fire cannons!" More or less.

Not saying anything bad about it. I like this first Destroyermen book. I find it interesting how the two are similar AND different.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 11, 2017, 09:05:55 AM
I liked how they developed the tech in that first Lost Regiment book. It got a little over the top in the later books, but that first one handled it pretty well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 11, 2017, 09:07:31 AM
Quote from: bbmike on September 11, 2017, 05:20:21 AM
^I thought Eisenhower Lemur warned them against that.

Yes, but then the Velociraptor Commies launched Sputnik and the Lemurs went nuts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 11, 2017, 10:11:02 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on August 31, 2017, 04:32:39 PM
Anyone here read The Destroyermen series, or the Kirov series?

https://www.amazon.com/Into-Storm-Destroyermen-Book-I-ebook/dp/B001ANUOUM/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1504215025&sr=1-4&keywords=destroyermen

https://www.amazon.com/Kirov-Book-1-John-Schettler-ebook/dp/B007JKPEW8/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1504215151&sr=1-1&keywords=kirov+book+1

I read the first one and could not get into it.  S.M. Stirling's books are better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 11, 2017, 10:24:29 AM
^Hmm, Stirling. I tried to read Island in the Sea of Time but didn't make it far. It was not good at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 11, 2017, 10:45:57 AM
I've finished You are Never Weird on the Internet (almost) by Felicia Day.

My wife got it as a $1.99 kindle deal.

Felicia Day is odd.  Home schooled by a knee-jerk leftist Mom Felicia became good at Math, Violin, reading lots of books and playing early RPG games.  She was accepted into the University of Texas at 16.  She completed a double major in Math & Music with a 4.0 average.

Then she decided to go to Hollywood to become an actress.  She succeeded in getting commercial work and bit parts.  Then became totally obsessed with World of Warcraft.  Wrote "the Guild" and ran it for 6 years.

She has severe anxiety issues and depression.  Got doxed by 4Chan & Gamersgate types.  Creepy stalkers, but does not carry a gun.

This was a train wreck/success story.  Highly creative individual who is not balanced.  Unfortunately, she lost a couple of key people on her big projects.  But Geek&Sundry brought us Tabletop which is a fun way to see how a game works.

A really different book from what I normally read.  Interesting, in a train wreck / success sort of way.  She did have some funny insights on growing up in Alabama and Mississippi and interacting with other homeschool kids.

The "Do You Want to Date My Avatar" video was great:


and Gamer Girl Country Boy video has the worst eye shadow in history


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 11, 2017, 10:46:36 AM
Quote from: bbmike on September 11, 2017, 10:24:29 AM
^Hmm, Stirling. I tried to read Island in the Sea of Time but didn't make it far. It was not good at all.

Tastes differ.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 11, 2017, 08:22:30 PM
I never could get into The Guild. I tried a few times, but I just didn't find it funny.

I do enjoy her on Wil Wheaton's TableTop series - she's engaging and enjoyable as much of his guests are. But as an actress...not so much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 11, 2017, 09:26:03 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 11, 2017, 08:22:30 PM
I never could get into The Guild. I tried a few times, but I just didn't find it funny.

I do enjoy her on Wil Wheaton's TableTop series - she's engaging and enjoyable as much of his guests are. But as an actress...not so much.

I had the same experience with The Guild.  But I did not do MMRPGS either.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 07:48:19 AM
^ There's a few such shows on Amazon Prime that are pretty good.

The Gamers: Dorkness Rising is one that's surprisingly entertaining.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 12, 2017, 08:01:03 AM
Just started The Only Child by Andrew Pyper.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 12, 2017, 08:09:43 AM
To coincide with playing 'Tunisia II', I'm reading 'Exit Rommel - The Tunisian Campaign' by Bruce Allen Watson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 12, 2017, 11:37:40 AM
Started reading Harold Coyle's "Team Yankee" again. Fun book.  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 12, 2017, 12:08:38 PM
Just finished Fall of Giants and I'm about to start The Final Reflection.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 12:26:18 PM
Picked up a hardback copy of Clancy's 'Bear and the Dragon' for 50 cents. Giving that a quick re-read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 12:34:45 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 12, 2017, 12:26:18 PM
Picked up a hardback copy of Clancy's 'Bear and the Dragon' for 50 cents. Giving that a quick re-read.

Is that about China mixing it up with the Soviets?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 12:36:01 PM
That's the one. The political stuff gets stale, but the battles are as entertaining as ever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 12:36:53 PM
Not a bad read. Not anywhere near RSR, but still it scratches the massive-modern-tank-battle itch, which I think is kind of a fetish around here.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on September 12, 2017, 12:39:48 PM
I thought that was his worst book... haven't read anything of his since... although now that I think about it he's not put much else out has he?  ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 12:41:17 PM
Kind of hard to when you're dead.  O:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on September 12, 2017, 12:44:05 PM
Well there's that.....  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on September 12, 2017, 12:44:59 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 12, 2017, 12:36:01 PM
That's the one. The political stuff gets stale, but the battles are as entertaining as ever.

Is that the one which starts out with the RPG attack in Moscow?  Clancy reluctantly admits the car was German-built but then proudly proclaims "but the bullet proof glass was MADE IN MURICA!!!!!!!" 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 12:47:50 PM
Quote from: Barthheart on September 12, 2017, 12:44:05 PM
Well there's that.....  :P

LOL I figured you knew that, I couldn't resist being a smart-arse though.

I'm not sure what his last books were. He did some weird Net-Force stuff that I never bothered with. RSR and his Carrier book are my favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 12:53:03 PM
Quote from: Barthheart on September 12, 2017, 12:39:48 PM
I thought that was his worst book... haven't read anything of his since... although now that I think about it he's not put much else out has he?  ???

Red Rabbit (came after Bear and Dragon) was his worst book. I stopped with the new stuff after that.

Bear and Dragon isn't his best work, but it's generally readable and far better than most other stuff in that genre.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 12, 2017, 12:54:59 PM
IIRC books are still being put out under the Clancy moniker by Writers-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Credited.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 12:59:12 PM
There are books still being published as "Tom Clancy's ...". The writer's do credited though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 12, 2017, 01:01:23 PM
Probably Russian and Chinese translations.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on September 12, 2017, 01:03:55 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 12, 2017, 12:53:03 PM
Quote from: Barthheart on September 12, 2017, 12:39:48 PM
I thought that was his worst book... haven't read anything of his since... although now that I think about it he's not put much else out has he?  ???

Red Rabbit (came after Bear and Dragon) was his worst book. I stopped with the new stuff after that.

Bear and Dragon isn't his best work, but it's generally readable and far better than most other stuff in that genre.

Red Rabbit, that's the one I couldn't remember... I didn't get that one specifically because Bear and Dragon sucked....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 01:11:44 PM
You did not miss anything by skipping Red Rabbit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 12, 2017, 02:29:54 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 12:36:53 PM
Not a bad read. Not anywhere near RSR, but still it scratches the massive-modern-tank-battle itch, which I think is kind of a fetish around here.

I reread RSR after a longest time a while ago. Funny thing was there was hardly any tank battles there, despite them being what was stuck to my mind. Sea and sea-air related battles for most part, and a long incursion in Iceland.

Haven't read Bear and Dragon, just might pick it up. Why not.

Mmmm. Massive modern tank battles  :nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 12, 2017, 02:39:24 PM
Has anyone tried Larry Bond's Red Dragon Rising series? I quite enjoyed the Korean base Red Phoenix books, two of them, but these are cowritten while Red Phoenix wasn't.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 03:02:59 PM
Yeah, we've mentioned Bond a time or two here, I think. I know I posted something about Red Phoenix, something unflattering most likely. :)

I know I read it way back in the day and thought it was okay. I confuse Bond with Coyle sometimes (I really liked Sword Point, but just can't get through Team Yankee).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 03:26:49 PM
Not a Larry Bond fan. I did read Red Phoenix back in the day and thought it was 'meh'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 12, 2017, 03:31:16 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 03:02:59 PM
Yeah, we've mentioned Bond a time or two here, I think. I know I posted something about Red Phoenix, something unflattering most likely. :)

I know I read it way back in the day and thought it was okay. I confuse Bond with Coyle sometimes (I really liked Sword Point, but just can't get through Team Yankee).

I read Team Yankee before RSR, it was probably the first WWIII book I recall reading. A fun book with guys wearing white hats easily beating the commie intruders  :))

I never (bothered) read any other Coyle books, might give Sword Point a try. Why not.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 12, 2017, 03:43:19 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 12, 2017, 03:26:49 PM
Not a Larry Bond fan. I did read Red Phoenix back in the day and thought it was 'meh'.

Korean War books  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 04:26:39 PM
My local library has Bond's Red Dragon series so I decided to give the first one a try. Hopefully I like it more than his other works that I've read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 12, 2017, 06:56:47 PM
I enjoyed Red Rabbit - but that was a book about smuggling people out of Russia.  No tanks, RPGs or other things that go boom.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 12, 2017, 07:03:18 PM
I didn't think it compared to Clancy's earlier spy-thrillers like Cardinal of the Kremlin, Patriot Games, or Clear and Present Danger. Red Rabbit was remarkably dull for a Clancy story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 12, 2017, 07:03:35 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 03:02:59 PM
Yeah, we've mentioned Bond a time or two here, I think. I know I posted something about Red Phoenix, something unflattering most likely. :)

I know I read it way back in the day and thought it was okay. I confuse Bond with Coyle sometimes (I really liked Sword Point, but just can't get through Team Yankee).

IIRC, Team Yankee was Coyle's first book. He had the tech stuff down but was still trying to find his characters' voices.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 07:40:46 PM
I remember a comic series done about Team Yankee, which I hate to admit I actually liked a lot more than the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 12, 2017, 07:56:17 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 12, 2017, 07:03:18 PM
I didn't think it compared to Clancy's earlier spy-thrillers like Cardinal of the Kremlin, Patriot Games, or Clear and Present Danger. Red Rabbit was remarkably dull for a Clancy story.

Greatly enjoyed Cardinal and Patriot Games.  Clear and Present Danger needed to be cut by 25%.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on September 12, 2017, 09:17:08 PM
I was very disappointed with The Bear and the Dragon. That was my last Clancy book I think. Not very much military action, and it all gets resolved in one night of wonder weapon attacks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 12:52:42 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 12, 2017, 07:40:46 PM
I remember a comic series done about Team Yankee, which I hate to admit I actually liked a lot more than the book.

I have a Team Yankee board game on my shelf, picked one from a seller at BGG a couple of years ago. Haven't played it yet, but happy to have it sitting there looking absolutely gorgeous.

TY is weak especially on the little infantry action it has, but the tank action more than makes for it, and for the plot, too. Then again I am a fool for any protagonists shouting LOAD SABOT! UP! so there's that.

I have Red Army on my bookshelf to balance TY, the Decadent West has it coming on that one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 12:54:14 AM
Quote from: mirth on September 12, 2017, 04:26:39 PM
My local library has Bond's Red Dragon series so I decided to give the first one a try. Hopefully I like it more than his other works that I've read.

Cheers, give us a holler as what you think. It is co-authored I believe, so will keep it further down the reading queue for a while.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 01:01:32 AM
While we're at Cold War gone hot subject, I read Harvey Black's The Red / Black / Blue Effect trilogy a couple of months ago. I especially liked the first book, as it was mostly about SOF action in East Germany, reconnoitring the closed military areas there for Soviet build up.

I had no idea the Cold War East Germany was not a closed country, but open to WW2 Allied lands per the three other occupation areas. Only some military areas were allowed to be locked up, and that's where the first book spends it time.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51ih0dumK%2BL._SY346_.jpg)

The second and third books are then about the massive modern tank battles, second book is OKish especially as it for a change constantly depicts the western forces operating without air cover. The subplots come up one after another though, making the third book especially quite a chore to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 13, 2017, 05:51:04 AM
Quote from: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 12:52:42 AM
Then again I am a fool for any protagonists shouting LOAD SABOT! UP! so there's that.

Pretty sure Brant has yelled that a time or thousand out on the range.

Red Army was a pretty decent read. I read it shortly after I read RSR the first time and remember how jarring it was to be told just from the Soviet side, and from down in the trenches to boot (I don't actually recall if it actually tells much story from a perspective higher than tactical level - I'll have to read it again sooner or later).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on September 13, 2017, 06:21:29 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 13, 2017, 05:51:04 AM
Quote from: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 12:52:42 AM
Then again I am a fool for any protagonists shouting LOAD SABOT! UP! so there's that.

Pretty sure Brant has yelled that a time or thousand out on the range.

Red Army was a pretty decent read. I read it shortly after I read RSR the first time and remember how jarring it was to be told just from the Soviet side, and from down in the trenches to boot (I don't actually recall if it actually tells much story from a perspective higher than tactical level - I'll have to read it again sooner or later).

I really liked Red Army. It does give you some strategic perspective, which I thought was pretty eye-opening as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 06:42:10 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on September 13, 2017, 06:21:29 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 13, 2017, 05:51:04 AM
Quote from: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 12:52:42 AM
Then again I am a fool for any protagonists shouting LOAD SABOT! UP! so there's that.

Pretty sure Brant has yelled that a time or thousand out on the range.

Red Army was a pretty decent read. I read it shortly after I read RSR the first time and remember how jarring it was to be told just from the Soviet side, and from down in the trenches to boot (I don't actually recall if it actually tells much story from a perspective higher than tactical level - I'll have to read it again sooner or later).

I really liked Red Army. It does give you some strategic perspective, which I thought was pretty eye-opening as well.

Red Army has protagonists at all level, including Kremlin, while most time is spent at tactical levels. It is a good read, and in that aspect quite on a different level to Team Yankee, whom which it is often quoted as a definitive pioneering 80's WWIII book

General Hacket's Thirld World War is another one, I have started it a good few times but still haven't finished it in one go.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 13, 2017, 07:12:09 AM
I read The Third World War back in middle school, I think. It was a slog, but then again I was 12 or so and thought it was such a cool concept at the time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 13, 2017, 07:59:42 AM
Third World War is a slog. Very dry material.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on September 13, 2017, 08:22:31 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 13, 2017, 07:12:09 AM
I read The Third World War back in middle school, I think. It was a slog, but then again I was 12 or so and thought it was such a cool concept at the time.

Quote from: mirth on September 13, 2017, 07:59:42 AM
Third World War is a slog. Very dry material.

So it's not just me then...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 13, 2017, 09:48:17 AM
Quote from: airboy on September 12, 2017, 07:56:17 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 12, 2017, 07:03:18 PM
I didn't think it compared to Clancy's earlier spy-thrillers like Cardinal of the Kremlin, Patriot Games, or Clear and Present Danger. Red Rabbit was remarkably dull for a Clancy story.

Greatly enjoyed Cardinal and Patriot Games.  Clear and Present Danger needed to be cut by 25%.

Huh, I'm almost the opposite. I still regard PGames as dull, but CaPD as my favorite of the Ryan series. (Admittedly nothing beats RSR.)

I was okay with B&D, but I never even tried Red Rabbit, although I own a copy given at Christmas (I didn't realize it was a prequel to PG until it arrived, and worried it would break canon too much trying to be relevant to the overarching story). And I haven't read the Ryan Jr novels at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 13, 2017, 09:53:41 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on September 13, 2017, 09:48:17 AM
I was okay with B&D, but I never even tried Red Rabbit, although I own a copy given at Christmas (I didn't realize it was a prequel to PG until it arrived, and worried it would break canon too much trying to be relevant to the overarching story).

Was Red Rabbit a prequel to PG? I think it's set between PG and Red October.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 14, 2017, 11:02:46 AM
...um, yes, you're right. I had to look up to be sure, but in RedRab Ryan is in England working for the CIA, while in PGames he accepts the job offer from the CIA.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 14, 2017, 11:04:26 AM
Meanwhile, at brunch I finished reading the analysis of the German side of the Market-Garden operation, It Never Snows in September. Well worth the investment.  O0

Next up, finishing my thematic trilogy of the major West Euro operations from the German side, is... um... ....well, I've got it already, but I've forgotten the title. Bulge of course.

Edited to add: oh, yeah, it's Merriam's Dark December.  :clap:


(I'm also still marching through the seven current volumes of Horowitz's collected political essays, speeches, and articles. I'm somewhere in Volume 5, "Culture Wars".)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 17, 2017, 10:08:08 PM
Just began Only the Dead Know Brooklyn by Chris Vola.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 19, 2017, 07:48:41 PM
Finished The Final Reflection by John M. Ford. One of the best Star Trek books ever written and the way Klingons should have been.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 19, 2017, 07:51:32 PM
Quote from: bbmike on September 19, 2017, 07:48:41 PM
Finished The Final Reflection by John M. Ford. One of the best Star Trek books ever written and the way Klingons should have been.

This should make you happy:

Quote
The novel was one source of inspiration for the depiction of the Klingons in Star Trek: Discovery, including an adaption of the game klin zha. Actor Kenneth Mitchell also read the novel as part of preparing for his role.

http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/The_Final_Reflection
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 19, 2017, 07:53:58 PM
I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say that the 'Klingons' in Star Trek Discovery will be nothing like John M. Ford's Klingons.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 19, 2017, 07:54:49 PM
but they read the book!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 19, 2017, 07:58:56 PM
Khest Star Trek Discovery!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 19, 2017, 08:00:22 PM
lol.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 20, 2017, 05:55:32 PM
Just started Star Trek Vanguard #1 - https://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-Harbinger-Star-Trek-Original-ebook/dp/B000FCKBTI/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1505948082&sr=1-7&keywords=star+trek+vanguard+series (https://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-Harbinger-Star-Trek-Original-ebook/dp/B000FCKBTI/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1505948082&sr=1-7&keywords=star+trek+vanguard+series)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 20, 2017, 06:01:33 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 20, 2017, 05:55:32 PM
Just started Star Trek Vanguard #1 - https://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-Harbinger-Star-Trek-Original-ebook/dp/B000FCKBTI/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1505948082&sr=1-7&keywords=star+trek+vanguard+series (https://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-Harbinger-Star-Trek-Original-ebook/dp/B000FCKBTI/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1505948082&sr=1-7&keywords=star+trek+vanguard+series)

Ha! I started The Face of the Unknown (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CO347UY/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1) last night. Let me know how Vanguard #1 is.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 09:42:21 AM
Quote from: Crossroads on September 12, 2017, 02:39:24 PM
Has anyone tried Larry Bond's Red Dragon Rising series?

I picked up the first book from the library this week and started reading it. It's going right back to the library. Basically unreadable imo. Clancy at his worst is better than anything Bond has done.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 09:43:45 AM
Quote from: bbmike on September 20, 2017, 06:01:33 PM
Let me know how Vanguard #1 is.

Will do. Only 20 or so pages in, but pretty good so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on September 21, 2017, 09:58:26 AM
Quote from: mirth on September 21, 2017, 09:42:21 AM
Quote from: Crossroads on September 12, 2017, 02:39:24 PM
Has anyone tried Larry Bond's Red Dragon Rising series?

I picked up the first book from the library this week and started reading it. It's going right back to the library. Basically unreadable imo. Clancy at his worst is better than anything Bond has done.

I think I read Cauldron and while I was able to finish it I agree with the above sentiment on Bonds' work.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 10:04:59 AM
Quote from: mirth on September 21, 2017, 09:42:21 AM
Basically unreadable imo. Clancy at his worst is better than anything Bond has done.

I tried so hard to like Bond. And Coyle. I just don't get how anyone can be so prolific and so mediocre at the same time (e.g. Turtledove, that shithead).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 10:18:33 AM
I've tried reading Bond several times in the past 30 years. Usually about once every 10 years. Each time, I am immediately reminded why I don't read his stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 10:20:35 AM
And I'd read Bond any day over Turtledove. What dreck he writes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 12:41:21 PM
+1 for excellent usage of 'dreck.'

I read Cauldron when I was 15-16 and loved it. Haven't read any Bond since.

In the next week or two I am finally getting around to cracking open my illustrated copy of Salem's Lot! Psyched for that. BTW Stephen King turns 70 today 👍
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 12:42:50 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 12:41:21 PM
BTW Stephen King turns 70 today 👍

Yes he does. Local paper had an article on it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 21, 2017, 12:43:43 PM
Quote from: mirth on September 21, 2017, 10:20:35 AM
And I'd read Bond any day over Turtledove. What dreck he writes.

Different strokes for different folks. Live with it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 12:44:45 PM
What you talkin bout Willis?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 12:47:23 PM
Greybriar likes Turtledove.

I can't judge as I have never read his dreck 😎
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 12:47:48 PM
To each his own. I'll forever despise Turtledove and his publishers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 12:48:53 PM
I knew what he was talkin bout, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity for a Different Strokes reference.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 12:49:11 PM
Respect.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 12:51:15 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 12:47:48 PM
To each his own. I'll forever despise Turtledove and his publishers.

To each his own is right. I realize Bond and Turtledove are both very popular and successful authors. And I'm not trying to piss off anyone who enjoys their work, but I definitely have not enjoyed reading either despite many attempts.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 21, 2017, 12:54:44 PM
Many people enjoy reading Turtledove's books. I've only read one series of his books but I don't understand the criticism I have seen of him here. Is Turtledove my favorite author? No, not by a long shot. But I have read far worse books than his. Dreck? I wish I had the money his books have brought in for him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 12:56:45 PM
Quote from: Greybriar on September 21, 2017, 12:54:44 PM
Dreck? I wish I had the money his books have brought in for him.

So do I. I also don't particularly like most of Stephen King's work, but he seems to be doing alright without my support.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 12:59:33 PM
It all boils down to Greybriar's sig.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 01:00:20 PM
We're talking about books, not PC games.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:02:45 PM
Doesn't matter. It's art and subjective.

You don't know my pain!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 01:02:53 PM
I might think Turtledove sucks and his publishers are grade-A a**holes, but I respect Greybriar for his taste in liking the author. After all, just because it's my opinion doesn't mean it's the most popular or correct one.

And mirth is right about Stephen King, too. I've not read but a few of his books and they're struggles. The Mist was the only one (and of course it was a short story) that I actually enjoyed a great deal.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 01:04:22 PM
King is a much better short story writer than novelist.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:18:46 PM
I haven't read any Turtledove and just a few King novels. I have met many more people that despise King than even know who Turtledove is.

Still very much looking forward to Salem's Lot. If it is even close in quality to The Stand or The Shining, I will enjoy it. If it's gross like The Dark Half, I won't.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 01:19:54 PM
Salem's Lot is excellent and scary as hell. It's also one of his shorter novels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:21:11 PM
I have read many reviews and talked to many peeps who agree with your above statement. Hell just the poster for tv movie from the early 80s scares the crap out of me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 21, 2017, 01:22:25 PM
I think the TV movie was late 70s, but I get your point. Scared the crap out of me too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:25:12 PM
I never watched it because of that damned poster/book cover.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 01:28:22 PM
Same. Made mistake of watching Salem's Lot in the 70s. Scarred me but good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:29:23 PM
The Shining did that to me at around age 7. But it will always be one of my favorite movies. Salem's Lot I could not handle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 01:30:50 PM
We saw The Shining at a drive-in movie theater (remember those?). My mom made me lay down in the backseat and told me to go to sleep so I'd not see it, but they were so enthralled with it they didn't notice me watching. That was another head-scortcher.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:32:10 PM
Dude I still can't watch the old lady in the tub scene. I blame my parents. At least yours tried to help you. Mine didn't even know I scarred myself!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 01:40:47 PM
Another movie they made me not watch was It's Alive. But it was so bad they caught me sneaking peeks.

I finally watched it about 15 years ago. They weren't wrong...that was a terrible movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:43:04 PM
Progress.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 21, 2017, 01:44:15 PM
Unlike just having trailers full of dancing girls.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:53:17 PM
That's a lot to ask.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 23, 2017, 07:00:54 AM
We're going to see Les Miserables at the Providence Performing Arts Center tonight.  So for the last 2 weeks I've been on a tear trying to finish up the book.

Finally, last night at 12:30 I finished it.  Very good book.  I can't lie, I had to skim some of the asides Hugo goes on in order to finish it up, but I did it.  I skipped the portion about the history of the sewer system and some of the characters' long speeches.  I also didn't give the part about the nature of revolutions enough attention. 

I didn't care too much for the end, but I guess maybe that was to be expected.  Regardless, I feel a real sense of accomplishment getting through the book, and doing it in time to see the show and not have spoilers.  I'd like to go back and re-read it from where I started skimming, but I don't know if I have the stamina at this point.  Perhaps, when I retire to Florida, I'll sit on my porch in my rocker with nothing but time on my hands, bring out a cold beer, and give the book another close read.  The story itself is pretty quick, it's the long expositions Hugo goes on that make the book so classic in my opinion.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 23, 2017, 07:01:46 AM
I'm strongly considering hitting War and Peace next...another book I've always wanted to read and has been sitting on my bookshelf (and Kindle) for years now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 23, 2017, 08:22:45 AM
I think I've said upthread somewhere that I consider Salem's Lot to be King's best work. It's focused, keeps enough plot details for color, homages his source material nicely, effective on the monster and its rules of operation, effective on the atmosphere(s) (especially around Halloween / deep fall), but also a novel's length of content. The heroes are smart but also make understandable and tragic mistakes; the villains are kept sharp enough to be a constant threat. I wish a faithful adaptation with good production values would be made as a Netflix 8-part series or something that would make sense to be available to watch in the proper season.

Verrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrry loosely remade by King himself with Needful Things, which on balance I'd also call a better adaptation to screen overall. But I don't like the book version of NT as much, due to a lack of proper terror, ditto for the atmosphere, and of course the villain is too broad in operational power to feel like a real opponent. (To be fair, I don't think the story was going for the first two per se.)

Here I'll caveat as usual that I haven't read anything from King since he released Dolores Clairborne (or however it's spelled), so my evaluation has some hard limits.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 23, 2017, 08:36:57 AM
The Stand is King's best work.  Pretty much irrefutable. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on September 23, 2017, 09:14:08 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 21, 2017, 01:29:23 PM
The Shining did that to me at around age 7.

I read The Shining when I was about 20. But I was spending a week alone in a cabin in the mountains. Probably not the best choice to read at that time.

My parents were pretty liberal about letting me watch movies, but the one movie they wouldn't let me watch was The Exorcist. I was maybe 11 when it came out. I think they made a good choice, because I watched it when I was older and it still freaked me out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 23, 2017, 10:06:34 AM
The Exorcist is one movie I refuse to watch again.  Rosemary's Baby is another.

I haven't read much Stephen King, The Stand, and Eyes of the Dragon, and the first few Dark Tower books are the extent of it.  I liked The Stand the best by far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 23, 2017, 10:14:21 AM
The Exorcist is tied with The Shining for me as my favorite horror movie of all time. The Fox show based (very loosely) on The Exorcist is supposed to good also, I need to watch it.

I know when the original Exorcist movie was released in 1973 it provoked a lot of protests from the Church and religious groups and I personally know a lot of people that won't watch it or let their families watch it. Makes sense since even today it is so extreme in its imagery/language...I can imagine in 1973 that it blew more than a few minds.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 23, 2017, 10:39:21 AM
I won't watch The Exorcist again because it scares the ever loving CRAP out of me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 23, 2017, 10:47:51 AM
I remember I was about 8 or so and wanted to read The Exorcist. I don't remember why but my mom was right there and I was looking at the book on the shelf and asked if I could read it.

She laughed a little and said "Nooo, sorry." ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 23, 2017, 11:12:18 AM
Have you seen a The Shining MD? Having seen pieces of it at like 6 or 8 I am sure it damaged my psyche a bit 🤓
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on September 23, 2017, 12:21:03 PM
Quote from: Toonces on September 23, 2017, 07:01:46 AM
I'm strongly considering hitting War and Peace next...another book I've always wanted to read and has been sitting on my bookshelf (and Kindle) for years now.

Did you know the original title was War, What is it Good For?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 23, 2017, 12:29:21 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 23, 2017, 11:12:18 AM
Have you seen a The Shining MD? Having seen pieces of it at like 6 or 8 I am sure it damaged my psyche a bit 🤓


Yeah.  But it's been a while.  I was in my, "No movie is going to scare me," phase and I don't remember it being near as scary to me as The Exorcist.  Having said that, seeing it at 6 or 8 would scar me for life.  And I am not sure a viewing at my age now wouldn't do the same thing. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 23, 2017, 12:31:52 PM
Especially The Shining's bathtub scene. When I saw that the first time my face must have looked exactly like Danny's, 'shining' it remotely.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 23, 2017, 02:07:38 PM
@ bbmike - no, I did not know that.

Debating between starting that, and running through The Deluge Trilogy again.  I'm not sure I'm ready for War and Peace...I'm kind of worn out from Les Mis, TBH.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 23, 2017, 08:14:00 PM
You gotta take your sour French attitude literature in doses, man.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 24, 2017, 05:22:15 AM
I've just started reading Gormenghast (again).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 24, 2017, 11:06:14 AM
Que?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on September 24, 2017, 11:19:08 AM
I knew I had heard the word, Gormenghast, I didn't know anything about it.  A quick look at the Wiki is an eye opener:


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gormenghast_(series)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 24, 2017, 11:23:28 AM
If you've not read it, then I recommend it. I guarantee its like nothing you have read before.

Also;


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 24, 2017, 07:23:33 PM
About to start Into the Carpathians by Alan Sparks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on September 24, 2017, 10:00:16 PM
Turtledove has some great ideas but his writing is truly crap. I've read a few of Bond and actually quite enjoyed them, mostly his early stuff with Patrick Larkin. His sequel to Red Phoenix was pretty good too.

I've just started reading Shelby Foote's Civil War trilogy, I'd read the first 2 1/2 books years ago but had stopped for some reason so trying it again. Really enjoying it, he's a great writer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 26, 2017, 10:44:18 PM
Just started, "Killing England" Bill O'Reilly's latest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on September 27, 2017, 06:59:01 AM
NPR Interview with Candace Millard, author of "Hero of the Empire: The Boer War, a Daring Escape, and the Making of Winston Churchill"

http://www.npr.org/2017/09/26/544447697/how-the-boer-war-helped-winston-churchill-become-the-hero-of-the-empire
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 27, 2017, 07:26:57 AM
Ooh nice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on September 27, 2017, 09:14:36 AM
I just started reading The Politically Incorrect Guide to American History by Thomas E. Woods. (Yes, it is politically incorrect!)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 27, 2017, 11:16:17 AM
I loved all the P.I.G. (Politically Incorrect Guide) books.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on October 01, 2017, 05:56:39 AM
Purchased the kindle edition of "Tank Warfare on the Eastern Front 1941-1942".

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51HlWVEbGLL.jpg)

An interesting read so far, especially as it makes the point how badly Stalin's purges affected Soviet Mech Formations especially, as that's where their most brilliant young commanders were, and those were the first who got executed. Thus, from the revolutionary "Deep Strike" tactic, down they went, and were utterly unprepared to Barbarossa, especially on use of their tank formations.

Strong critic on German approach to war as well, how slow they were in getting modern medium tanks even out. The definitive advantage of their experienced and skilled officer core made such a difference in the beginning of war, when they were so utterly unprepared for a long war in their part.

About a quarter of the book read so far, but can recommend this already. A few dimes under $3.00, won't break your budget either  O0   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 01, 2017, 06:04:11 AM
Thanks for the review. I went to buy it and found that I already own it!  ::)

Now maybe I'll actually read it. Between Kindle and Steam I have enough forgotten books and games to keep me busy until the heat-death of the Universe.


lazy link for US kindles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OZ3HSNA/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 01, 2017, 10:41:40 AM
I read that Schwerpunkt book last winter - it's quite academic. Go to me the 2nd book as well, waiting to be read (1943-1945).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on October 01, 2017, 01:22:18 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 01, 2017, 10:41:40 AM
I read that Schwerpunkt book last winter - it's quite academic. Go to me the 2nd book as well, waiting to be read (1943-1945).

The first chapter with the background on tank development, trainng, logistics, he could have spent more time with it. Just finished the second chapter, it's back to more traditional Barbarossa writing, but since it is solely concentrating on tank warfare (where combined arms or lack of play a role), it's perhaps not that distinctive anymore.

Yet, the author is denying the German loss reports by David Glantz for instance, so he is offering an alternative view there too.

Very good value for three bucks, still  :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on October 01, 2017, 01:29:42 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/ltAJ3uX.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 01, 2017, 01:47:29 PM
There was a great episode of American Experience on PBS a while back, called Into the Deep, all about American Whalers. It used the story of the Essex as a sort of centerpiece.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/whaling/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 01, 2017, 01:55:41 PM
^cool. Thanks for the heads up, 'wing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 05, 2017, 08:21:52 PM
I am finally about to start reading Salem's Lot! Either tonight or tomorrow. Psyched!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 05, 2017, 08:23:19 PM
I finished Hell Divers II last night - good read. Not as excellent as the first, but pretty good in and of itself.

Now I've moved to a bit of fluff called Zombie Road: Convoy of Carnage (https://www.amazon.com/Zombie-Road-Carnage-David-Simpson-ebook/dp/B01N7ZHNEL).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 07, 2017, 07:34:43 AM
Quote from: Gusington on October 05, 2017, 08:21:52 PM
I am finally about to start reading Salem's Lot! Either tonight or tomorrow. Psyched!


Keep us updated!  :D


I own Forczyk's duology, but haven't gotten around to reading it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 11:10:37 AM
60 pages in to Salem's Lot and I really like it so far. Makes me want to right an equivalent story taking place in the Hudson Valley instead of New England one day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 11:22:22 AM
Gusington's Lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 12:10:31 PM
^You will be my publicist. Whether you want to or not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 12:15:31 PM
That's a hell of an offer
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 08, 2017, 12:59:43 PM
mirth: "Not enough sex. Needs more female vampire-on-vampire action."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 01:09:53 PM
^Good suggestions.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 08, 2017, 01:18:08 PM
Just avoid dudes pounding billionaire dinosaur butt and you should be good. Because it's been done (https://www.amazon.com/Helicopter-Pounds-Dinosaur-Billionaire-Novel-ebook/dp/B011YHWHPI). ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 01:18:55 PM
You can never really go wrong recommending more lesbian vampire action.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 08, 2017, 01:21:44 PM
Sparkly might even work in that case. Actually anything would.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 04:12:52 PM
You are a gifted agent, mirth. I'm going to double your salary.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 04:30:09 PM
Gus, I like you so much that I'm going to buy you a bus ticket to Jerusalem's Lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 05:00:15 PM
I will write it off to our corporation.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 08, 2017, 05:01:23 PM
Hey, now. What about my worthwhile suggestions?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 05:03:56 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 05:00:15 PM
I will write it off to our corporation.

Barlow & Straker, LLC?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 05:05:25 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on October 08, 2017, 05:01:23 PM
Hey, now. What about my worthwhile suggestions?

Take it up with Herr Barlow
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 08, 2017, 05:07:28 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi0.kym-cdn.com%2Fphotos%2Fimages%2Fnewsfeed%2F000%2F992%2F407%2F776.jpg&hash=08e3fa7b2205de657c6ebcf873749211e672ed20)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 05:09:23 PM
You must have gone to the Seth McFarlane School of Comedy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 08, 2017, 05:10:46 PM
I'm no Pokemon trainer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 05:30:25 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 05, 2017, 08:21:52 PM
I am finally about to start reading Salem's Lot! Either tonight or tomorrow. Psyched!

Well you've got me reading it now (for the first time in 30 years). Not terribly comfortable reading about vampires taking over a town 20 miles north of where I currently live.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 08, 2017, 05:37:38 PM
Just remember, the vamps can't come in unless you invite them in. You didn't happen to order a pizza delivery tonight, did you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 05:40:46 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on October 08, 2017, 05:37:38 PM
Just remember, the vamps can't come in unless you invite them in. You didn't happen to order a pizza delivery tonight, did you?

Yeah, but it's xtra garlic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 05:41:32 PM
If it's a hot lesbian vampire, I'm done for.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 08, 2017, 05:44:52 PM
^ Who wouldn't be?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 06:36:46 PM
Man, I'm 46 pages in and this thing is already creeping me out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 08, 2017, 07:15:16 PM
Quote from: mirth on October 08, 2017, 01:18:55 PM
You can never really go wrong recommending more lesbian vampire action.

These guys beg to differ.

(https://fanart.tv/fanart/movies/18238/moviethumb/lesbian-vampire-killers-51d9cdfc4251f.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 07:16:40 PM
That's a couple of very butch looking lesbians.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 07:18:07 PM
How do we know which ones are the lesbians?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 08, 2017, 07:19:52 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 08, 2017, 07:18:07 PM
How do we know which ones are the lesbians?

The eternal question.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 09, 2017, 12:01:11 PM
Gus how far into the Lot are you? Between last night and today, I'm a little over halfway through. Gonna be some serious nightmares this week. I grew up in a rural Maine town so the book rings very true to me.

This is really King at his best. Better than I remember even.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 01:07:06 PM
It's reading quickly for me...I am about 125 pages in. The version I have is divided into three 'books' so I am almost done with the first one. I really like it. I want to write something like this for Hudson Valley small towns, which can give Maine small towns a run for their money in terms of creep factor.

I didn't know you grew up in rural Maine...what town??
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 09, 2017, 01:13:39 PM
Benton. About 20 minutes north of Augusta. Very small farm town surrounded by similar small towns.

Turns out Salem's Lot would be much closer to where I live now. Doesn't take long outside of Portland to get into the sticks.

When you get into western Maine, there's a real King vibe to a lot of places. Places where you would not want to break down after dark because you know they'd never find your body.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 01:17:51 PM
Sounds a lot like...my driveway 🤡
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 09, 2017, 01:20:10 PM
I drove through your neck of the woods last year. Upstate NY has a very similar look/feel to the inland areas of Maine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 01:24:11 PM
I know and you sped by before I could invite you in for a beer. Loser.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 09, 2017, 02:16:18 PM
No way I was sticking around past dark.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 02:21:44 PM
Probably for the best. The road out is wooded on all sides.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 09, 2017, 02:45:33 PM
I have maybe 70 pages left of Salem's Lot. Needed to take a break and go to see my priest.

I'm very glad I don't live in the sticks these days.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 09, 2017, 06:49:35 PM
Oh, I bet the Killer, Lesbian Vampires are just as afraid of us  as we are of them. Open Mind Gentlemen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 09, 2017, 06:52:27 PM
The problem is that I'm not afraid of the lesbian vampires at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 09, 2017, 06:54:50 PM
<SMH>  You agreed to let one of them in, didn't you?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 09, 2017, 06:56:04 PM
That's going to be trouble, innit?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 07:21:37 PM
Not for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:08:36 PM
One soul-sucking harpy per home, please.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:12:20 PM
O'Snap
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:12:56 PM
It's a by-law somewhere, maybe. Unless you're into soul-sucking harpies, in which case by all means, SGT.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:15:12 PM
I wasn't...she just turned in to one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:16:06 PM
They all do. It's like a Green Lantern transformation. I'm talking about the crappy movie Green Lantern.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:21:49 PM
Is there a good one?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:22:58 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:21:49 PM
Is there a good one?

Oh there's much better than that crap movie out there.

The DC animated movies are far and away better than any DC live-action movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:24:28 PM
I'm a Marvel guy most of the time, with a weakness for anything Dark Knight on the flip side.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:26:23 PM
Same. I'm not a DC fan at all, but those animated movies are surprisingly awesome.

You'll feel embarrassed clicking on one to watch, but try either Justice League: War or Justice League: Flashpoint Paradox. Both are as highly entertaining as any Marvel movie, IMO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:27:56 PM
Have you met me? I have way better things to be embarrassed about.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:28:48 PM
I'll believe you once you smack haut baus's ass and post the video here.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:30:37 PM
She wants it so bad. She keeps complaining about how she can't sleep at night.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:33:27 PM
Haut baus is trying to bring you in like a 747.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fairlines.org%2Fwp-content%2Fthemes%2Fairlines%2Fconnect%2Fimages%2Fmarshall%2FMarshaller-Animations_Move-Ahead.gif&hash=16b50b597ae03fa652236f5e57daf4db2a4d5343)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2017, 08:35:23 PM
The best thing that ever happened to me was when my infatuation for her collapsed under 25 pounds of ass flab.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 09, 2017, 08:36:53 PM
 :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 09, 2017, 09:28:12 PM
THAT should keep the Lesbian Vampires away.  :-"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 10, 2017, 07:59:36 AM
Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 10, 2017, 08:00:14 AM
Wait, we're trying to keep the lesbian vampires away now?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 10, 2017, 08:01:18 AM
The ones with an extra 25 pounds of ass flab.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 10, 2017, 08:02:13 AM
Oh, them
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 10, 2017, 08:06:14 AM
Yeah I like to pretend they don't exist too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 10, 2017, 10:34:37 AM
FYI Gus, once you're done with Salem's Lot, there's a short story in Night Shift that serves as a bit of a sequel. It's called, One for the Road. There's also something of prequel called Jerusalem's Lot.

Night Shift (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_Shift_(short_story_collection))
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 10, 2017, 12:10:05 PM
Not to be confused with Night Shift (1982):



That's your 1989 Batman, folks. ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 10, 2017, 12:20:53 PM
I think I have seen bits of the movie way back when...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 10, 2017, 12:21:42 PM
It was one of my big time favorites in the 80s. I must have seen it 100 times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 10, 2017, 12:23:58 PM
That and Dr Detroit make a great double feature.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on October 10, 2017, 12:35:05 PM
Quote from: mirth on October 10, 2017, 12:23:58 PM
That and Dr Detroit and one of those Star Trek whiskey glasses filled with bourbon make a great double feature.

ftfy
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 10, 2017, 12:53:20 PM
Quote from: bbmike on October 10, 2017, 12:35:05 PM
Quote from: mirth on October 10, 2017, 12:23:58 PM
That and Dr Detroit and one of those Star Trek whiskey glasses filled with bourbon make a great double feature.

ftfy

good call
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 10, 2017, 12:57:53 PM
That's more like a triple feature, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 10, 2017, 02:00:37 PM
Bourbon really helps with all films made in the 80's. Enough bourbon and squint your eyes a little, and Freddy Kruger looks like Art Carney from the Honeymooners. Try it sometime.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on October 10, 2017, 04:42:38 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on October 10, 2017, 12:57:53 PM
That's more like a triple feature, though.

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 11, 2017, 08:11:07 AM
Well, I'm done with the vampires of Southern Maine. I will be canceling that weekend hiking trip I had planned.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 11, 2017, 08:37:22 AM
I'll take that trip for you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 11, 2017, 08:38:39 AM
Go for it. We were planning to camp just outside the Lot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 11, 2017, 08:43:15 AM
Tell Susan to wear a nice dress.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 11, 2017, 08:44:29 AM
You know it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 11, 2017, 10:22:20 AM
If I were a vampire I wouldn't go to Maine. I would hang-out at South Beach, Miami where you would look and act like everybody else there. Maybe it's not exciting enough for them.  :idiot2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 11, 2017, 04:41:42 PM
Night Shift is pretty damn good reading.  I just read it about 6 or 8 months ago for like the third time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on October 14, 2017, 02:07:36 PM
https://twitter.com/MilHistNow/status/919214688168267776
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on October 14, 2017, 02:20:59 PM
^I wasn't surprised.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 14, 2017, 04:47:34 PM
Quote from: mirth on October 11, 2017, 08:11:07 AM
Well, I'm done with the vampires of Southern Maine. I will be canceling that weekend hiking trip I had planned.

To extra-cancel that hike, I can recommend for the Halloween season Rusty Wilson's collections of Bigfoot short stories. I assume most or all are fictional, but he knows how to set up a bunch of different narratives with behaviors broadly typical of encounter stories. (Actually, his one definitely fictional novel about Bigfoot is much more clumsy and amateur and obviously fake than his short stories, so there's that. And I'm including comparison to such things as his story of a Bigfoot caught in a tsunami up around Alaska! -- that story was amazing. The novel, not so much.) I'm thinking of burning through them again this month myself.

Note if anyone goes shopping for them, that some of his books are handy collections of other books. Which is helpful because the shorter collections are priced a bit disproportionately high for their amount of content.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on October 15, 2017, 11:42:59 AM
Having read the first half, that is the year 1941, of the "Tank Warfare on the Eastern Front 1941-1942", and which I've enjoyed immensively because of the  :nerd: that I am , I got sidetracked and started on Amiran Ezov's recently translated (from Hebrew) "Crossing", which details the crossing of the Suez in '73.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51YMTpqAbEL._SY346_.jpg)

As it was advertised to me, it is supposedly a really good read into the events and the OOB of the crossing to "Africa".

First few chapters done, this is certainly written on a more personal level (yet at the operational level), than what I've read about this so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on October 16, 2017, 05:43:51 AM
Finished The Day of the Triffids. Good, classic post apoc stuff. I really doubt the movie from the 60's follows the book but might have to find it and watch it now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 16, 2017, 06:32:09 AM
The movie is campy sci-fi fun  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on October 16, 2017, 06:47:26 AM
There's a later BBC TV mini-series that's pretty good as well.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_of_the_Triffids_(2009_TV_miniseries)

and before that

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_of_the_Triffids_(1981_TV_series)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 16, 2017, 06:50:21 AM
Quote from: Barthheart on October 16, 2017, 06:47:26 AM
There's a later BBC TV mini-series that's pretty good as well.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_of_the_Triffids_(2009_TV_miniseries)

and before that

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_of_the_Triffids_(1981_TV_series)



And the 1957, 1968, and 2008 radio dramas

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_of_the_Triffids
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on October 16, 2017, 06:51:05 AM
yeah, it really is a good book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 16, 2017, 06:52:55 AM
There's a book?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 16, 2017, 07:58:33 AM
I just started reading The Red Knight (http://fantasybookcritic.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-red-knight-by-miles-cameron.html) by Miles Cameron.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 16, 2017, 08:40:16 AM
I started reading The Red Knight a couple of years ago...I got about 1/3 of the way through, it was a long read for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 16, 2017, 12:40:14 PM
The Red Knight was really good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 19, 2017, 06:16:23 AM
Can anyone recommend a book covering the general history of the war in the Pacific, please. I've read odd bits, but not a good chronological history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on October 19, 2017, 06:40:11 AM
Quote from: bob48 on October 19, 2017, 06:16:23 AM
Can anyone recommend a book covering the general history of the war in the Pacific, please. I've read odd bits, but not a good chronological history.


World War 2: Pacific Theatre: A Brief History of the Pacific Theatre in WWII    (Not the best but currently free)
https://www.amazon.com/World-War-Pacific-Invasion-Hiroshima-ebook/dp/B00KSP29II/ref=zg_bs_156678011_f_9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=1XFBAGS4PZT3QAH8YE07

Pacific Crucible: War at Sea in the Pacific, 1941-1942
https://www.amazon.com/Pacific-Crucible-War-Sea-1941-1942-ebook/dp/B005LW5JL2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1508412635&sr=1-1&keywords=war+in+the+pacific

The Conquering Tide: War in the Pacific Islands, 1942-1944
https://www.amazon.com/Conquering-Tide-Pacific-Islands-1942-1944-ebook/dp/B00TG24BC6/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1508412784&sr=1-5&keywords=war+in+the+pacific

War in the Pacific: From Pearl Harbor to Tokyo Bay
https://www.amazon.com/War-Pacific-Pearl-Harbor-Tokyo-ebook/dp/B005DXOOK6/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1508413065&sr=1-2&keywords=war+in+the+pacific
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 19, 2017, 06:53:23 AM
Thank you, Pete. I'll check those out. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 19, 2017, 07:03:57 AM
Haven't begun to read, but Pacific Thunder looks very good for those interested in the Fast Carriers.

https://www.amazon.com/Pacific-Thunder-Central-Campaign-1943-October/dp/147282184X
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on October 19, 2017, 09:26:38 AM
Quote from: bob48 on October 19, 2017, 06:16:23 AM
Can anyone recommend a book covering the general history of the war in the Pacific, please. I've read odd bits, but not a good chronological history.

You might want to check out volumes 3 - 8 and 12 - 14 of History of United States Naval Operations in World War II (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_United_States_Naval_Operations_in_World_War_II).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Crossroads on October 21, 2017, 12:27:18 PM
Quote from: Crossroads on October 15, 2017, 11:42:59 AM
Having read the first half, that is the year 1941, of the "Tank Warfare on the Eastern Front 1941-1942", and which I've enjoyed immensively because of the  :nerd: that I am , I got sidetracked and started on Amiran Ezov's recently translated (from Hebrew) "Crossing", which details the crossing of the Suez in '73.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51YMTpqAbEL._SY346_.jpg)

As it was advertised to me, it is supposedly a really good read into the events and the OOB of the crossing to "Africa".

First few chapters done, this is certainly written on a more personal level (yet at the operational level), than what I've read about this so far.

Finished reading Ezov's "The Crossing" today. What a fascinating read, and a great book if you ever want to see how friction and fog-of-war can wreac havoc on a modern battlefield.

The 1973 Suez Crossing is mostly remembered for the battle for the Chinese Farm, yet that was supposed be just a routine highway clearance to rid the area of a few  Sagger-armed Egyptian "tank-hunter teams".  Yet, this securing of the northern flank of the crossing corridor proved out to be one of the most costly battle in the history of IDF.

But that's just one of the stories that keeps you glued to the book. The other is the engineering feat of how to cross the Suez Canal in the first place. Several solutions were tested, yet to even get them to the crossing site turned out to be a major endeavour.

All this is easily forgotten when reading about the decisives action after IDF secured the west bank of the canal and surrounded a full Egyptian Army to the east side. Recommended reading if interested in this particular topic. The Crossing, that is, as that's where it starts, and that's where it stops.

Very academic as well, but perfect for those Order-of-battle studies.  :nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on October 21, 2017, 07:52:08 PM
Standing the Final Watch: The Last Brigade, Book 1 (https://www.amazon.com/Standing-Final-Watch-Last-Brigade-ebook/dp/B01HSCAJM6).

Pretty solid writing so far. A little farfetched in the plot, but if you're no fan of Obama and believe in conspiracy theories, well...hey, it's a work of fiction.  O0

QuoteAmerica might be dead, but Nick Angriff will kick your ass to resurrect her.

Lt. General Nick Angriff has spent his adult life protecting family and country from a world of terrorism spinning out of control. On the battlefield, off the grid, in clandestine special task forces and outright black ops, Angriff never wavers from duty. But when a terror attack on Lake Tahoe kills his family, he's left with only the corrosive acid of revenge... that is, until a hated superior officer reveals the deepest of all secret operations. Against the day of national collapse, a heavily-armed military unit rests in cryogenic storage, to be awakened when needed, and Angriff is named its commander.

Fifty years later he wakes to find the USA destroyed and predatory warlords roaming the ruins. Stalked by assassins bent on seizing his command for their own purposes, Angriff has to prepare for war while avoiding murder.

Because the only wall still shielding survivors from slavery and death are the men and women of The Last Brigade.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 22, 2017, 08:40:49 AM
Quote from: bob48 on October 19, 2017, 06:16:23 AM
Can anyone recommend a book covering the general history of the war in the Pacific, please. I've read odd bits, but not a good chronological history.

Costello's Pacific War is widely considered the best single volume treatment of the war.  It is very good.

Toland's The Rising Sun is an cel lent single volume account told from the Japanese perspective.

I highly recommend both.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on October 22, 2017, 08:52:20 AM
Thank you - on my list now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 27, 2017, 09:30:03 AM
Finished, "Killing England" by Bill O'Reilly last night. Good book as are all the 'killing' series and I learned a few things I didn't know before but this one lacks the emotional grab of the other books and felt a little flat. Next up is, "The Splintered Empires" by Pritt Buttar, the 4th and final book of WWI on the Eastern Front 1917-1922. So you probably won't see me until sometime after X-Mas.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on October 27, 2017, 09:50:49 AM
Quote from: Toonces on October 22, 2017, 08:40:49 AM
Quote from: bob48 on October 19, 2017, 06:16:23 AM
Can anyone recommend a book covering the general history of the war in the Pacific, please. I've read odd bits, but not a good chronological history.

Costello's Pacific War is widely considered the best single volume treatment of the war.  It is very good.

Toland's The Rising Sun is an cel lent single volume account told from the Japanese perspective.

I highly recommend both.

The Rising Sun was really good. I just ordered Costello's Pacific War, thanks!  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on October 27, 2017, 10:05:03 AM
Quote from: Toonces on October 22, 2017, 08:40:49 AM
Quote from: bob48 on October 19, 2017, 06:16:23 AM
Can anyone recommend a book covering the general history of the war in the Pacific, please. I've read odd bits, but not a good chronological history.

Costello's Pacific War is widely considered the best single volume treatment of the war.  It is very good.

Toland's The Rising Sun is an cel lent single volume account told from the Japanese perspective.

I highly recommend both.

I'm just finishing Eagle Against the Sun. It's quite good.

https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Against-Sun-American-Japan/dp/0394741013
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on October 27, 2017, 03:20:55 PM
^Good to hear, that's already on my shelf waiting to be read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 27, 2017, 04:40:35 PM
Finished Salem's Lot last night. Enjoyed it, some creepy if not overtly scary scenes. The edition I have also had a couple of short stories also set in Salem's Lot, including a Lovecraftian one set in 1850 that was also very good. Next I think I will read the first book in Victor Foia's Dracula Chronicles series, Son of the Dragon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 27, 2017, 06:07:07 PM
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KBA9R9Y/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_dp_t2_.b38zbGWYQ3WQ

Think this would find a Groggy audience.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 27, 2017, 06:08:02 PM
^Heh, quite.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 28, 2017, 08:33:37 AM
That art looks more like Cthulhu: Mafia Buttonman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on November 04, 2017, 08:19:00 PM
Picked these up at the Pentagon library yesterday.

(https://i.imgur.com/aXgSPI4.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/iahUiFZl.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 05, 2017, 11:31:44 AM
Just started 'Lore' by Aaron Mahnke, based on the podcast and also the new show of the same name on Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 13, 2017, 08:56:09 PM
About to start Book One of the Dracula Chronicles: Son of the Dragon, by Victor Foia.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 25, 2017, 09:56:20 AM
About to begin Dracula's Wars: Vlad the Impaler and Rivals by James Waterson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 04, 2017, 10:32:55 PM
Reading and very much enjoying Osprey's "Israeli A-4 Skyhawk Units in Combat" by Shlomo Aloni.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 04, 2017, 10:53:29 PM
Yesterday, I finished up Five Days in London: May 1940 by John Lukacs.  It takes a look at Churchill's early War Cabinet (towards the end of May, just as the direness of the Dunkirk situation was becoming clear), and the fateful decisions made by its members over whether to negotiate with Hitler or continue fighting.  Interesting stuff. 


Today, I began rereading Chesapeake by James Michener for the first time in over twenty years.  (I stumbled across a used copy at a bookstore a couple months back, and -- recognizing the title -- I had to pick it up.)  Thus far, it's every bit as good as I remember. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 05, 2017, 08:34:11 AM
Starting Osrpey's Medieval Polish Armies by David Nicolle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 05, 2017, 08:52:12 AM
Enduring Vietnam - https://www.amazon.com/Enduring-Vietnam-American-Generation-Its/dp/1250092485
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 05, 2017, 10:45:36 AM
Four Days in September: The Battle of Teutoberg (https://www.amazon.com/Four-Days-September-Battle-Teutoberg/dp/1473860857/ref=oosr).

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 11, 2017, 05:29:53 PM
After watching one of my favorite movies ("Gorky Park") again, I started reading the fourth book in the Arkady Renko series by Martin Cruz Smith: Havana Bay.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 11, 2017, 06:24:02 PM
Just started Half Moon: Henry Hudson and the Voyage That Redrew the Map of the New World by Douglas Hunter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 11, 2017, 08:32:43 PM
Been reading Four Days in September, about the battle in the Teutoburg Forest between the German barbarians and three of Rome's legions, but just bought The Pegasus and Orne Bridges: Their Capture, Defences and Relief on D-Day and German Northern Theater of Operations 1940-1945. It's hard to resist highly-rated 4.5+ star military history books on Amazon when they cost about a buck.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 12, 2017, 04:38:23 PM
Thank you, BC. I just picked that up for my Kindle for £0.99
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 12, 2017, 06:35:15 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 12, 2017, 04:38:23 PM
Thank you, BC. I just picked that up for my Kindle for £0.99

Which one, Bob?

I'm fairly excited over the Northern Operations book. I always wanted to learn something more in-depth about German operations there beyond the Norway campaign and especially surrounding the Murmansk offensives.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 12, 2017, 08:06:46 PM
Thanks for the reminder on Four Days in September. I forgot I had gotten the kindle version a while back and not yet read it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 12, 2017, 08:55:04 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on December 12, 2017, 08:06:46 PM
Thanks for the reminder on Four Days in September. I forgot I had gotten the kindle version a while back and not yet read it.

It's a pretty decent read so far. Be forewarned, the author goes into a lot of background building up to the battle; it's not just a discussion of the battle itself. He goes into quite a bit of exposition on the German tribes but he's a good enough author that he doesn't get too bogged down into details. It's quite a build-up. I'm not to the battle yet myself - maybe 30% into the book so far. The author is a good writer so it's not dry and boring as I feared it might be. He also likes to say things like, "...this is what most historians think, but let me say what I think, and why..." which is good for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 13, 2017, 07:05:32 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on December 12, 2017, 06:35:15 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 12, 2017, 04:38:23 PM
Thank you, BC. I just picked that up for my Kindle for £0.99

Which one, Bob?

I'm fairly excited over the Northern Operations book. I always wanted to learn something more in-depth about German operations there beyond the Norway campaign and especially surrounding the Murmansk offensives.

The one about the Orne and Pegasus bridges.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 13, 2017, 04:28:43 PM
I figured that's what you were referring to.

I've been fascinated by that battle since it was portrayed in both the first Call of Duty game and in Memoir '44, but I haven't read a proper tome on it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 13, 2017, 04:38:27 PM
No, I have only read about it as part of other D-Day books, so I'll be interested to read about it in detail. Yeah, played it in CoD 1 it was very atmospheric.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 18, 2017, 10:46:18 AM
Just started Six Frigates by Ian Toll. Only 25 pages in but I can tell this is a special book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 18, 2017, 10:46:51 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 18, 2017, 10:46:18 AM
Just started Six Frigates by Ian Toll. Only 25 pages in but I can tell this is a special book.

It is outstanding. I need to give it another read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 18, 2017, 10:53:52 AM
Just in th first 25 pages I found 3 or 4 passages that just made me stop to admire their beauty.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on December 18, 2017, 11:53:05 AM
Finished Ready Player One. A bit predictable and formulaic but it was a great read.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 18, 2017, 11:55:46 AM
Quote from: bbmike on December 18, 2017, 11:53:05 AM
Finished Ready Player One. A bit predictable and formulaic but it was a great read.  O0

Now gird your loins for the movie... ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on December 18, 2017, 11:59:04 AM
It's going to be interesting to see how they do it. I hope it doesn't get Jar Jar'd.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on December 18, 2017, 05:16:36 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 13, 2017, 07:05:32 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on December 12, 2017, 06:35:15 PM
Quote from: bob48 on December 12, 2017, 04:38:23 PM
Thank you, BC. I just picked that up for my Kindle for £0.99

Which one, Bob?

I'm fairly excited over the Northern Operations book. I always wanted to learn something more in-depth about German operations there beyond the Norway campaign and especially surrounding the Murmansk offensives.

The one about the Orne and Pegasus bridges.

Proving to be a very interesting read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 27, 2017, 12:50:34 AM
About to begin The Faded Map: Lost Kingdoms of Scotland by Alistair Moffett.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 27, 2017, 12:56:36 AM
Whoa, thanks for that one, Gus. Sounds like something to read before the next trip over there!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 27, 2017, 01:02:17 AM
Actually I have to thank you. With your late night conversatin', I was able to choose this era over WWI, for now.

Have you read any Alistair Moffett? He is a legend in the UK, especially Scotland. I've read a few books by him and picked up a couple of more when I was on the Isle of Sky.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 27, 2017, 01:10:44 AM
I've not, though I've just tried for the last several minutes to find a book I have on my Kindle about a history of Scotland. The dude goes into the VERY distant past, describing the Earth forming and the plates that formed northwestern Europe, going into migration to England, how it was connected to mainland Europe via Doggerland, and then into the history of Scotland. It's not showing up in my Kindle library on my PC.

I think it's this one (https://www.amazon.com/History-Scotland-Neil-Oliver-ebook/dp/B00GVFZWXI/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1514354806&sr=1-3&keywords=history+scotland), though. I haven't tried to read it since I last went in May.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 27, 2017, 01:14:53 AM
Haven't heard of that one. Tectonics is a little too far back for me :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on December 27, 2017, 01:19:24 AM
I thought the same, but it's actually rather interesting. Instead of choosing an arbitrary point in time and declaring that to be the start of the history of Scotland, he instead decides to ratchet the clock back a ways and start from scratch. I didn't finish the book but he's very entertaining in his description, so it's not some boring treatise on plate tectonics. At least, I didn't think so. It actually sets the stage well and shows you how society on the British Isles started the way they did.

And it was the first time I learned about Doggerland (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doggerland), too, which I found fascinating.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 27, 2017, 10:08:21 AM
'I didn't finish the book.'

😎

20 pages in to The Faded Map and it starts with a Greek explorer's charting of almost the entire British coastline, circa 320 BC!

😳
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 27, 2017, 08:01:16 PM
320 BC?  I had no idea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 27, 2017, 08:26:24 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on December 27, 2017, 08:01:16 PM
320 BC?  I had no idea.

That was Pytheas of Massalia. There is even a chance that he passed Iceland on his circumnavigation of the British Isles.

If you get the chance, read "The Extraordinary Voyage of Pytheas the Greek (https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Voyage-Pytheas-Greek-Discovered/dp/0802713939/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=)" by none other than Barry Cunliffe (https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1?ie=UTF8&text=Barry+Cunliffe&search-alias=books&field-author=Barry+Cunliffe&sort=relevancerank).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 27, 2017, 08:30:48 PM
Thanks, Stagger!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2017, 12:34:49 AM
^That's him. You guys should pick up The Faded Map, you would love it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on December 31, 2017, 02:12:55 PM
Killing Pablo by Mark Bowden
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 31, 2017, 03:01:19 PM
I could read a menu written by Mark Bowden and be happy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 02, 2018, 01:02:12 PM
I'm more than halfway done with Lost to the West: The Forgotten Byzantine Empire That Rescued Western Civilization by Lars Brownworth. It's a nice little popular-level narrative history from the arrival of Diocletian (setting up context of Byzantium) onward, mostly focusing on the Emperors and their generals and close relatives plus some patriarchs and popes crossing across the stage occasionally (and similarly high-level leaders of neighboring nation/cultures, naturally). Nothing jumps out as hideously wrong, except I don't think the Syrian (and other eastern) monophysite Christians would have welcomed the new Muslim invaders for the theological reasons the author briefly presents. (Monophysites were, and are, still trinitarian Christians with a high Christology; they would not have appreciated the low or rather non-Christology and simpler monotheism of the new arrivals, who in turn definitely did not find the monophysites kindred theological spirits as the author occasionally remembers to note. ;) )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on January 02, 2018, 02:05:49 PM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41fHuHHgYDL._SX323_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 04, 2018, 11:19:57 AM
"Nothing Like It In The World-- The Men Who Built The Transcontinental Railroad 1863-1869" by Stephen Ambrose. Hope it's not a Train-Wreck.  ;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 04, 2018, 11:45:50 AM
You'll just be chugging along, and then the story might get derailed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 04, 2018, 01:25:39 PM
Just started Beyond the Northlands - Viking Voyages and the Old Norse Sagas by Eleanor Rosamund Barraclough.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 04, 2018, 01:29:45 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on January 04, 2018, 11:19:57 AM
"Nothing Like It In The World-- The Men Who Built The Transcontinental Railroad 1863-1869" by Stephen Ambrose. Hope it's not a Train-Wreck.  ;D

I have this somewhere. Don't think I ever finished. Ambrose can be hit or miss for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 04, 2018, 04:36:16 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 04, 2018, 01:25:39 PM
Just started Beyond the Northlands - Viking Voyages and the Old Norse Sagas by Eleanor Rosamund Barraclough.

Oooh... shiny!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 04, 2018, 10:15:24 PM
It's a quick read, I will be done soon. Want me to ship it to you? You'd frickin' love it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on January 05, 2018, 05:46:00 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on January 04, 2018, 11:19:57 AM
"Nothing Like It In The World-- The Men Who Built The Transcontinental Railroad 1863-1869" by Stephen Ambrose. Hope it's not a Train-Wreck.  ;D

I read that about 10 years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 05, 2018, 02:48:09 PM
Don't tell me how it comes-out. I'm betting on the Mormons.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 05, 2018, 02:50:22 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on January 05, 2018, 02:48:09 PM
Don't tell me how it comes-out. I'm betting on the Mormons.

To do what?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 05, 2018, 07:18:10 PM
Roll over and become the 45th state.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 05, 2018, 07:32:52 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 04, 2018, 10:15:24 PM
It's a quick read, I will be done soon. Want me to ship it to you? You'd frickin' love it.

Deal!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2018, 07:39:26 PM
^PM me your address...(I had it for our Secret Santa but have since deleted it).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bayonetbrant on January 06, 2018, 02:58:33 PM
I'm working on The Clockwork Universe (http://amzn.to/2CzZbWO) right now.  Picked it up at the library when I took Bayonette over there just to get out of the house for a bit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 06, 2018, 05:43:07 PM
^Hello, beautiful.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 11, 2018, 01:49:27 PM
I was re-reading Ready Player One in anticipation of the movie coming out in a couple of months and wanted to check out other titles related to it, so I bought the first book in Tad Williams' series, Otherland: City of Golden Shadow. Sounded interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 11, 2018, 02:03:11 PM
^The preview doesn't look all that promising to me, but I remain hopeful.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 11, 2018, 02:10:21 PM
Quote from: bbmike on January 11, 2018, 02:03:11 PM
^The preview doesn't look all that promising to me, but I remain hopeful.

For Ready Player One?

I'm in tepid agreement, as the book is amazing - there's SO many 80s culture references that I can't imagine they were able to secure licenses for ALL of them. Which might, for me, remove a lot of the charm of the book. I mean, there's some esoteric stuff in there, so maybe it wouldn't cost that much, but who knows. It would be an organizational nightmare figuring it all out. The preview has some references, but it's not as loaded as I'd hoped it would be.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 11, 2018, 09:10:08 PM
I wasn't super impressed with the trailer either.  I really dug the book and all the references.  It would suck if they gutted it for whatever reason.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 11, 2018, 09:41:41 PM
Well, RP1 was in development hell for a while. I would like to think it was because they were trying to secure movie rights to so many things.

There's some things that are just integral to the story (e.g. the WarGames movie and the bronze gate). So, this is either going to be a tremendously awesome homage to he book, or it's going to be a watered-down pile of crap. I told my son to read the book before he sees the movie so if the movie is bad, it doesn't ruin his impression and make him NOT read the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 11, 2018, 10:56:55 PM
Good advice  O0  Heartily endorsed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2018, 08:39:44 AM
Just started The White War: Life and Death on the Italian Front, 1915-1919 by Mark Thompson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 12, 2018, 08:48:06 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on January 11, 2018, 10:56:55 PM
Good advice  O0  Heartily endorsed.

+1. That's what I'm telling people.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pinetree on January 12, 2018, 07:45:54 PM
Currently reading SpaceCorp (https://www.amazon.com/SpaceCorp-Galactican-Book-Ejner-Fulsang-ebook/dp/B01NCWCYF8/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1515804051&sr=8-1) after seeing a recommendation on the Atomic Rockets website. Hard SF with a good story and it's also a great read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 13, 2018, 12:56:52 PM
Saw the new Jumanji movie last night and they played the RP1 trailer. I missed a few things the first time I saw it, namely what looked like some very book-accurate events, so my hopes have been lifted.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on January 13, 2018, 01:30:49 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on January 13, 2018, 12:56:52 PM
Saw the new Jumanji movie last night and they played the RP1 trailer. I missed a few things the first time I saw it, namely what looked like some very book-accurate events, so my hopes have been lifted.

You're as hopeful as all those Star Wars were before Last Jedi came out.  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 13, 2018, 01:32:40 PM
Who am I kidding. I'll be honest, the trailer gives me goose bumps every time I see it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on January 14, 2018, 09:58:30 AM
American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant

https://www.amazon.com/American-Ulysses-Life-S-Grant/dp/0812981251/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 23, 2018, 09:24:03 AM
Finally, finally starting the Warhammer omnibus Thunder and Steel by Dan Abnett.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 23, 2018, 07:02:52 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 23, 2018, 09:24:03 AM
Finally, finally starting the Warhammer omnibus Thunder and Steel by Dan Abnett.

What's that one about? I still have to read the last Eisenhorn/Ravenor book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 23, 2018, 11:18:56 PM
^It's Abnett's earliest writing for Games Workshop, three different novels, a couple of short stories and a small graphic novel at the end, all set in the Warhammer (not WH40k) universe.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on January 24, 2018, 08:09:46 PM
What I've been reading lately are RPG pdfs.  Mostly Call of Cthulhu related.

Over the past several months I've read:
Pulp Cthulhu
A huge book Pulp Cthulhu adventure.
Masks of Nyarlahotep and Masks of Nyarlahotep Companion (this totaled 1000 pages).
Atchung Cthulhu (Rules, Players Guide, Guide to the Pacific; Guide to North Africa) among others.
More than a dozen Call of Cthulhu scenarios

I'm reading:
The Laundry RPG (manual and players guide)
The Dresden Files RPG

I've read Modessits' latest novel in the Recluse world and a couple of other books.  But I've almost exclusively been reading RPG things for about six to eight months.

I checked my RPGnow library and it runs more than 10 pages.  I've also bought a ton of stuff from Chaosium.  In all, I think I've spent an amazing amount of time and money on this.  And right now I'm only playing at conventions less than half a dozen times a year.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 25, 2018, 07:09:03 AM
I think I have a ton of Warhammer 40K e-books but I've yet to crack one open.

Currently reading both Ready Player One (still/again) and started Alien: Out of the Shadows (http://=https://www.amazon.com/Out-Shadows-Alien-Tim-Lebbon/dp/1781162689).

I bought the Alien book at Christmas and have been wanting to at least start it so I read the first couple of chapters. It's pretty good, but it jumps way too fast into the action. The characters are interesting but the book jumps way too fast into the action without building up tension, which it easily could have done.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 25, 2018, 09:50:05 AM
I think I enjoy WH40k more than WH. WH can be dense, like Thunder and Steel, and can be an insanity inducing slog for me if I don't skim. I have not felt that way with WH40k books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 25, 2018, 01:36:07 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 25, 2018, 09:50:05 AM
I think I enjoy WH40k more than WH. WH can be dense, like Thunder and Steel, and can be an insanity inducing slog for me if I don't skim. I have not felt that way with WH40k books.

Ironically. And, ironically. (Since chaos insanity is a major factor in both sets of stories.) :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 25, 2018, 01:42:14 PM
^I see what you did there Pratt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 25, 2018, 01:49:11 PM
Meanwhile, I finished Lost to the West a couple of weeks ago -- not gonna lie, I teared up at the final stand of the last Byzantine Emperor, who chose to die anonymously as one of his soldiers at the end -- and have moved on to the start of Susan Bauer's pre-modern history of the world trilogy (from near-prehistoric times to the end of the Renaissance.) Enjoying that immensely. Making notes for some sourcebooks she's using, to follow up on.

I also started reading a recent biography of Constantine, that I've barely gotten into yet so I don't have much opinion (other than I liked what little I've seen so far -- shaping up to be a very balanced and nuanced account.)

Finished David Paulides' latest Missing 411 collection of cases ("Off the Grid"), which seem to be veering back slightly into "Bigfoot did it, sometimes" territory. Several of the new cases demonstrate that the related but distinctly different murders of (mostly) college aged men in (mostly) urban college areas, with their bodies being (mostly) dumped in ponds and rivers nearby ("A Sobering Coincidence"), continues along. Considering that a retired forensic pathologist and a detective from New York State have also jumped on that case (before Paulides found it, and added incidents to it), and concluded decisively there's some kind of organized murder group behind it, the FBI should be jumping on that case more thoroughly and consistently than they seem to be.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on January 27, 2018, 10:02:06 PM
Finished "Havana Bay": the fourth book in the Arkady Renko series by George Martin Smith.

I'm about fifty pages into Patrick Rambaud's "The Battle: A Novel" which I am enjoying.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 27, 2018, 10:20:27 PM
How was Havana Bay? I've only read up to Red Square.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on January 28, 2018, 03:25:17 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on January 27, 2018, 10:20:27 PM
How was Havana Bay? I've only read up to Red Square.
Pretty good. The setting in post-Soviet Union Cuba was interesting with the problems that came with Russia cutting off aid to Cuba. As I read each book, I can clearly imagine William Hurt as Renko.

I liked it better than Red Square, but not as good as Gorky Park and Polar Star. I'll take a break from the series before moving onto "Wolves Eat Dogs".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 10, 2018, 03:53:53 PM
'Waterloo - the Hundred Days' by David Chandler.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on February 11, 2018, 08:20:57 AM
Finished "The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O"

Currently reading "Artemis" by Andy Weir
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 11, 2018, 08:29:44 AM
Quote from: jamus34 on February 11, 2018, 08:20:57 AM
Finished "The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O"

Currently reading "Artemis" by Andy Weir

Plot reviews are already out there but if you can please let us know how the novel is from a tech-appreciation perspective.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 12, 2018, 10:24:02 PM
Just started Revenger by Alastair Reynolds.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 13, 2018, 10:10:23 AM
Gus, have you read Reynold's 'Revelation Space' trilogy? If not, then do yourself a favour and grab it. Absolutely fantastic stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 13, 2018, 10:12:40 AM
Been reading the Northern Operations book and it seems like an excellent tome on the subject of German military operations in Denmark and Norway thus far, but there's several misspellings (maybe six so far), some of which are rather egregious that could have been caught with a simple editorial pass. But the quality of the writing is otherwise excellent. Finally getting to the part where the battle of Narvik is winding down near the mid-point/end of May, 1940. Looking forward to reading more about German operations against Murmansk.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 13, 2018, 10:21:58 AM
Ooh thank you Bawb. Have you read Revenger? About 30 pages in and it is taking its sweet time in the buildup.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 13, 2018, 11:03:51 AM
^Not yet, but its on my list!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 13, 2018, 01:27:04 PM
 O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 13, 2018, 02:16:33 PM
Alright, so my currently reining Favorite Author has to be Adrian Tchaikovsky. Since picking up "Children of Time" (winner, 2016 Arthur C. Clarke Award for Best Novel), I've been devouring his novels. He tinkers in sci fi and light fantasy for the most part, but so far one novel is nothing like another. Honestly, I would have a difficult time choosing my favorite, although having just finishes "Spiderlight", I can say without reservation it's the most entertaining novel I've read in some time. Anyone who has ever played AD&D should stop what you're doing, log onto Amazon and buy Spiderlight right now!  I'll stake a personal reputation point on that score....if I have one left anywhere   8)

So far I've read:

Children of Time
Ironclads
The Tiger and the Wolf
Spiderlight
Guns of the Dawn

Next up is Empire of Black and Gold. Gus, you would in particular enjoy this author, especially Guns of the Dawn and Ironclads.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 13, 2018, 02:19:52 PM
You complete me...I picked up Guns of the Dawn a while ago and will be reading it very soon 👍
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 13, 2018, 02:24:19 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 13, 2018, 02:19:52 PM
You complete me...I picked up Guns of the Dawn a while ago and will be reading it very soon 👍

I said I couldn't pick a favorite, but I almost went back and changed my post to reflect my love for Guns of the Dawn. You will greatly enjoy it, Gus  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 13, 2018, 02:44:00 PM
Just the summary of it sounds very steampunk meets Wizardry, which is all it takes for me.

I have not bought Ironclads yet - sounds like scifi.

I am more interested in his fantasy titles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 13, 2018, 03:09:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 13, 2018, 02:44:00 PM
Just the summary of it sounds very steampunk meets Wizardry, which is all it takes for me.

I have not bought Ironclads yet - sounds like scifi.

I am more interested in his fantasy titles.

Ironclads is indeed a mech-ish scifi type of novel. Children of Time is very definitely scifi, although one of the more original ideas I've read in some time.  Spiderlight is a vastly entertaining dark vs light adventure novel that manages to present some standard rpg mantras in a new, often damn funny, light. Guns of the Dawn....just read it. Tiger and the Wolf was a really good read with well-thought out and developed characters and a solid storyline.  Believable characters with depth are a true gift of Tchaikovsky that reflects in all of his writing (except perhaps Ironclads). Good stuff!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on February 13, 2018, 03:11:59 PM
Oooh, Children of Time sounds interesting.  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 13, 2018, 03:15:02 PM
Quote from: bbmike on February 13, 2018, 03:11:59 PM
Oooh, Children of Time sounds interesting.  8)

I found myself wanting to rush through the parts where humanity was in the spotlight in order to get back to his aliens as quickly as possible. I don't want to give away anything in the book, but he manages to create an alien culture from something familiar and he nails it completely. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 13, 2018, 03:18:44 PM
Just looking at these books on amazon. I can see I'm going to have to read some of these, maybe starting with Guns of the Dawn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on February 13, 2018, 03:20:34 PM
Hard to go wrong with that thinking, Bawb   8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on February 13, 2018, 03:26:45 PM
Quote from: bob48 on February 13, 2018, 03:18:44 PM
Just looking at these books on amazon. I can see I'm going to have to read some of these, maybe starting with Guns of the Dawn.

That also sounds cools. It almost sounds like he was playing Age of Wonders 3 when came up with the idea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 13, 2018, 03:38:22 PM
Or Warhammer as the dwarfs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on February 19, 2018, 01:02:11 AM
Finished Patrick Rambaud's "The Battle: A Novel". A good historical novel about the Battle of Aspern-Essling as told by the French side.

Now reading "In the Hour of Victory: The Royal Navy at War in the Age of Nelson" by Sam Willis which goes into great detail about the dispatches written by the Royal Navy commanders that took part in the major battles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 22, 2018, 01:03:48 PM
While I knew this on the far, faaaarrrr periphery of my (already somewhat limited) American Civil War knowledge, I was reminded by HistoryBuff's nice video on the film Gettysburg (comparing the film to real life), that the British Lt. Col. Arthur Lyon Fremantle was present as an observer at the battle, while on his three month vacation tour through the South during the War. (He wasn't an official observer, he just thought it would be awesome to go take a tour of the American war, and traveled around with official delegates, semi-pretending to be a delegate.)

After being reminded this guy existed, I wondered if he had published an account afterward, and yes indeed he did: Three Months in the Southern States. I found an excellent printed edition in paperback here: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/0995074712

One has to account for his various prejudices of course -- he's a clear example of how someone can be both technically anti-slavery, and also dyed-in-the-wool racist; also a class elitist -- but it's a fascinating snapshot of the Southern war right at the turning of the tide, from April through June 1863.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on February 22, 2018, 01:28:12 PM
I'm currently reading 'The History of Napoleon Buoaparte' by J.G.Lockhart. Its a free Kindle download.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on February 22, 2018, 04:20:13 PM
Currently reading "Master and Commander" by Patrick OBrien
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on February 22, 2018, 04:49:39 PM
Quote from: jamus34 on February 22, 2018, 04:20:13 PM
Currently reading "Master and Commander" by Patrick OBrien

:bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on February 22, 2018, 04:52:40 PM
My daughter gave me this book a while ago for Christmas or my birthday, and I just got around to reading it.  I did not realize that it was about Mathews County, Virginia.  30 pages into it so far, and so far I'm enjoying it.


(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51huUJ2REXL.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2018, 08:18:21 PM
For anyone keeping score, Revenger by Alastair Reynolds is not so good. I'm skimming through the rest of it to move on. Some of the reviews on Amazon are pretty scathing and I agree with some of them. I probably should have tried some other Reynolds first.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 24, 2018, 02:55:28 PM
Starting Ancestral Machines by Michael Cobley for the second time. It is 4x space opera. First time I tried I got 20 pages in and it required too much thought. So I'm trying again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on February 24, 2018, 08:28:56 PM
Hornfischer's The Fleet at Flood Tide
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 24, 2018, 08:56:37 PM
Quote from: mirth on February 24, 2018, 08:28:56 PM
Hornfischer's The Fleet at Flood Tide

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 04, 2018, 08:21:56 PM
About to start The Cold War, A Global History by Odd Arne Westad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 04, 2018, 09:07:35 PM
Last of the Breed by Louis  L'Amour.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 05, 2018, 11:23:49 AM
The Battles and Campaigns of Nathan Bedford Forrest by Gen. John Scales.  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 05, 2018, 08:35:22 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on March 04, 2018, 09:07:35 PM
Last of the Breed by Louis  L'Amour.

The only L'Amour novel I've read is his last: The Haunted Mesa, written just after Last of the Breed. A very different kettle of fish though. Let us know what you think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on March 06, 2018, 07:19:10 AM
Just finished 1493: Uncovering the New World Columbus Created by Charles Mann. (Audio book version - afternoon commute and lunch time walk about.)
Very interesting read about how Columbus stumbling into North America created follow on effects that are still affecting the world today.
I really liked it because it's one of those few books that ties the history of various regions of the world together that seem very far apart and disconnected.

Trying to get my hands on the first one now: 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 06, 2018, 09:54:44 AM
Both of those have been on my to-read list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on March 06, 2018, 09:56:33 AM
The author is quite good at making what could be rather dull info very interesting and engaging.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 06, 2018, 09:58:41 AM
Unfortunately German Northern Theater of Operations 1940-1945 (https://www.amazon.com/Northern-Theater-Operations-1940-1945-Illustrated-ebook/dp/B06XGQR2T1) is losing a bit of steam for me. He described in great detail Mountain Corps Norway's assault on Murmansk and how pathetic it was, as well as mid-Karelia operations which are immensely hard to follow without having Google Maps next to you while reading. It's finally started to pick up as he's gotten into the Siege of Leningrad and the Finns' unwillingness to attack the northern part of that city in 1941, which allowed the Soviets to move a few desperately-needed divisions to oppose the Germans. It's gotten a bit more interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on March 06, 2018, 10:01:20 AM
"Outpost", a nifty new sci-fi by W. Michael Gear.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/510iam-BFWL.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 09, 2018, 07:21:17 PM
Life in a medieval city was on sale so I'm rereading it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2018, 03:55:26 PM
This one?

https://smile.amazon.com/Life-Medieval-City-Frances-Gies/dp/0062415182/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520801683&sr=1-1&keywords=life+in+a+medieval+city

I enjoy a lot of the Gies books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 11, 2018, 06:10:02 PM
Yes.  I've read all of them at one point or another.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2018, 09:34:18 PM
Good stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on March 11, 2018, 10:16:21 PM
Quote from: airboy on March 09, 2018, 07:21:17 PM
Life in a medieval city was on sale so I'm rereading it.

I have not read any of the books by Frances and Joseph Gies (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frances_and_Joseph_Gies). I will definitely have a look at them now that I know they exist.

Thanks for mentioning Life in a Medieval City, Airboy. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 17, 2018, 07:19:00 AM
Received these as gifts last night.  Perfect timing, because I had just finished the book I had been reading.


(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/511%2BHS7YUjL._SX307_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51KlpIwBH1L._SX326_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 17, 2018, 03:27:31 PM
Oooh how's the Nomonhan book? I've had that on my list forever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JudgeDredd on March 17, 2018, 03:58:51 PM
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0741XHVDP/ref=kinw_myk_ro_title
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 17, 2018, 04:11:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 17, 2018, 03:27:31 PM
Oooh how's the Nomonhan book? I've had that on my list forever.

I just started, but I'll let you know. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 17, 2018, 04:26:05 PM
thanks
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 18, 2018, 10:38:30 AM
Finished up Rusty Wilson's latest collection of Bigfoot short stories recently -- I was increasingly worried the guy had had to quit due to health (or death?!) but surprise, new book! They're up to par on quality, though longer and more incidentally detailed. Despite the dramatic title, a lot of his prior stories had hostile hunters in them -- it's just that all six in this new collection go that way, and he had to call it something I guess. ;)

Back to serious study elsewhere after the thematic break.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 24, 2018, 05:34:26 PM
Just started Frontline Ukraine: Crisis in the Borderlands by Richard Sakwa.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 27, 2018, 06:36:18 PM
I just started Lucky Universe: Lucky's Marines (https://www.amazon.com/Lucky-Universe-Luckys-Marines-Book-ebook/dp/B078NFY7HB/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1522193734&sr=1-3&keywords=lucky+marine).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 27, 2018, 06:42:02 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 17, 2018, 03:27:31 PM
Oooh how's the Nomonhan book? I've had that on my list forever.

I'm about halfway through the book.  So far I'm enjoying it.  The author gives an account of the military aspects of the battle, as expected, but he also talks about how the battle affected the larger, complex geo-political negotiations leading up to the invasion of Poland.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 27, 2018, 07:31:17 PM
^Thanks, it's right in my wheelhouse.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 28, 2018, 03:39:39 PM
At brunch today I finished Fremantle's Three Months in the Southern States. It deserves to be a classic of the genre, but I had never heard of it before last month! -- certainly my loss.

I'm unsure how much of the book has been fictionalized -- a few points here and there seem touched up a bit -- but, considering I have no way to independently vouch for its essential historicity, there seem to be numerous markers of a strong historical core to the work. A bit of research indicates that the work is regarded as a historical source reminiscence, popular in Britain and (surprisingly) the Union during the late war but which lost its (clearly romanticized) luster after the final defeat of the Confederacy. Fremantle went on to a high career as a British general, capped by governorship of Malta in 1894. His diplomatic crown was receiving a tour from Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Fremantle was present for the battle of Gettysburg, and passed close to action at Jackson, MS; Vicksburg (at a greater distance); and Shelbyville, TN. Along the way (including a naturally protracted trek across Texas from his legal circumvention of the Union blockade by entering from Mexico across the Rio Grande), Fremantle meets most of the great southern Generals still alive at the time, and also various politicians up to two or three of the high Confederate officials including Jefferson Davis.

The book is very much a work of its time, and the enlightened Fremantle, while detesting slavery in principle, can't help but show a constant ongoing racism and blithe disregard for the make-do attitudes of enslaved blacks -- it's easier to see such things in hindsight, but he also contravenes presuppositions of our time in what to expect about various situations.

Fremantle was somewhat surprised to discover a strong degree of admiration for all things British among the higher classes of the South (he himself being quite a believer in good breeding etc.). Especially he was surprised to discover that all Confederate officers above a certain grade, due to their class education, spoke English no differently than the English did -- with what we would call a British high-class accent! -- and indeed made it a point of pride to do so, in contrast to the ladies who, although they could speak that way if they wanted to, chose to affect 'southern' accents, apparently as guardians of southern culture (or, if I may suspect, because of the aesthetic attractiveness of southern accents in women.  :coolsmiley: )

This was tacitly exhibited in an incident told to the Lt.Col several times which he eventually heard from the mouth of the Louisianan General Polk (serving in Tennessee at the time): early one evening, while overseeing the arrival of a new brigade at the front, and settling them in, Polk observed a regiment lining up from the shelter of a treeline to take harassing pot-shots at the arrivals. All his couriers were off carrying messages, so he rode up to the regiment himself and demanded they stop shooting at their allies. The colonel replied that he was sure that they were the enemy, to which of course Polk retorted that he himself had only just come over from them and could assure that they weren't. Upon demanding to know the colonel's name, Polk discovered that this was an Indiana regiment! Polk successfully bluffed his way to settling down the Union regiment without letting them know who he really was, and coolly trotted off to make his escape -- whereupon he raised up the newly arrived Confederate brigade to launch a devastating night attack upon the regiment! Aside from the entertainment of the story, it shows that Polk, who could not have been from deeper 'South', spoke with no detectable 'southern' accent.

Overall, although Fremantle's own exposure to Union soldiers was brief (as he was making his way to and through New York and back to Britain), he greatly admired the Confederate armies, down to the level of the individual soldier, regardless of their relative 'class', considerably moreso than his (much more limited) exposure to Union troops. (This is why I was surprised at the short-term popularity of his published diary in the Union during the back half of the war.) His observations on Gettysburg's aftermath are interesting, in that he traced the Union victory to enough common sense to hold a solid defensive position (once driven there), combined with more grit than anyone was expecting among his guests; and on the other side, he had to acknowledge that the defeat primarily came from the universal contempt of Union soldiery (in this theater of the war) by all degrees of Confederate soldiers. (Confederates had a higher opinion in the western theaters, where the troops they faced more usually came from what back then were the northwestern frontier states.) Indeed, while Lee had to retreat to resupply, the impression received by Fremantle was that Lee had no intention of leaving the state but simply to regroup and try again: by the Confederate estimate, they had given better than they got at Gettysburg, and had not sullied their reputation, since they had actively driven an army of greater numbers into a defensive position from which the Unionists dared not sally out even to take advantage of the Confederate withdrawal and reorganization at the end of July 3rd, and never approached within half a mile of Confederate cannons, while the Rebels had gallantly marched into their teeth, breaking through defenses, holding the famous "cemetery" for some time, and the artillery area secured by Pickett's charge (which only had to be withdrawn from when other parts of the Confederate line couldn't make it up far enough for mutual support of the breach to be established. But even in that failure they were trying!) Again in the matter of the Little Round Top, the Confederates had come within an ace of taking it, and while repulsed they fell back in good morale for having acted with gallant initiative. In this the attitude of the various Confederate generals certainly helped restore and reshape the morale after those two losses; but they also expected dangerous counterattacks from the Union lines on both days which never happened and which might have resulted in a far more crushing rout of the Confederacy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on March 28, 2018, 07:51:43 PM
In anticipation of getting Raiders Of The Deep from Compass, and with a credit from Amazon for doing some four-week Kindle reading challenge, I bought Fips : Legendary U-Boat Commander 1915-1918 (https://www.amazon.com/Fips-Legendary-U-Boat-Commander-1915-1918-ebook/dp/B00KIXWHKA/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1522283716&sr=8-5&keywords=ww1+german+submarine+book+kindle).

Precious few books from the German perspective during the Great War, centered on submarines.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 28, 2018, 07:55:23 PM
^Sounds cool.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 29, 2018, 10:42:36 AM
One hundred fifty six pages is not enough for me. I like 'em BIG! Though it does look interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on March 29, 2018, 10:48:08 AM
Currently trying to finish JP's last post in this thread.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 29, 2018, 12:55:39 PM
Get the heavily abridged version.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 29, 2018, 03:44:30 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 29, 2018, 12:55:39 PM
Get the heavily abridged version.

Or better yet - the haiku version.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on March 29, 2018, 04:58:25 PM
Get the braille version, when you're done reading no one will ever be able to identify your fingerprints at a crime scene again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 29, 2018, 05:20:44 PM
Braille-Ku
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 29, 2018, 09:30:10 PM
Braille-fu!

...I think there's a Netflix series or something about that.  :nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 29, 2018, 10:18:03 PM
I saw that one. It's about a guy starting a Latvian Death Song Band, "Doom Doom Doom". Or was it Estonian? Good show but needs more dialog.  :clap:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on March 31, 2018, 05:31:58 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 27, 2018, 07:31:17 PM
^Thanks, it's right in my wheelhouse.

Finished Nomonhan last night.  Good book.  He concluded with an interesting idea that the (relatively) small battle there was pivotal in deciding the outcome of WW2.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 31, 2018, 10:15:56 AM
Thanks bruh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on April 03, 2018, 01:57:09 PM
I dunno, but I'm damned tempted to read Tha Holy Bibizzle (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1544259158/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1).

No, I'm not joking.

(https://cdn.thisiswhyimbroke.com/images/tha-holy-bibizzle-gangsta-slang-bible2-640x533.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/1mmHBbM.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/CH7iKSN.jpg)

:2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny: :2funny:
:DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD :DD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 03, 2018, 05:18:24 PM
OMGangsta
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 03, 2018, 07:02:28 PM
Playa...




Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 03, 2018, 07:05:24 PM
Pint-sized playa
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 03, 2018, 07:20:37 PM
Yes?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on April 03, 2018, 07:29:47 PM
Favor us with a haiku
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on April 03, 2018, 07:31:23 PM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51U7kqf76DL._SX329_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on April 03, 2018, 07:43:15 PM
^ They just found out that the one crewmember on the roster who was never accounted for among either the dead or survivors had not actually shipped out on that mission. He was recorded as boarding but was then immediately transferred to another assignment though never recorded as disembarking.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on April 11, 2018, 08:22:48 PM
Finished this on my way out to the west coast:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51v477SCSTL._SX308_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)

And then I started reading this one the way back:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51QOFYz-XAL.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 12, 2018, 09:17:55 AM
Just started Vindolanda by Adrian Goldsworthy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 18, 2018, 02:19:40 PM
Recently finished the first volume of Susan Baur's pre-modern history trilogy, History of the Ancient World. Despite the subtitle describing the timeline reaching "to the fall of Rome", it actually transitions at the rise of Constantine. She takes a quick stab at justifying the title anyway, with the idea that what emerged from Constantine's accession was something different from Rome, and greater for better and for worse, but eh. She could have just as easily ended with the founding of Constantinople and the shift of government there as a better argument for "the fall of Rome" (as a seat of government). Either way, everyone everywhere regards the fall of Rome as something rather more dramatically obvious (if more varied about when exactly it happens) than where she ends up. Were the dust-jackets already printed when she decided she had better not go out to something more like the actual fall?? ???

Despite this annoying quibble, I enjoyed the tome as a very readable history of ancient world civilizations up to (verrrrrrrrry arguably) the start of the medieval period (if one takes the so-called Dark Ages as early medieval, and the start of this as the fall of Rome, and the fall of Rome as the rise of ugh.) Grogs should especially appreciate it as, in effect, a military history, since most of the historical 'narrative' up to this point is SO VERY CONCENTRATED on wars. On the other hand, the near-total focus on war-as-history started to seriously depress me after a while. I don't blame anyone for that, except our fallen humanity in general. But still, I didn't rush out and immediately start reading Vol 2 either. I'm sure I'll get to it presently.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 27, 2018, 08:33:23 AM
Vindolanda was very good - anyone who likes Harry Sidebottom will enjoy it.

On to Alexander the Great by Philip Freeman now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 08, 2018, 06:55:21 AM
Alexander the Great by Philip Freeman was also very good. Just started Ghost on the Throne by James Romm, on the Alexandrian Succession Wars.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 08, 2018, 01:03:19 PM
https://thestrategybridge.org/the-bridge/2018/5/8/whos-missing-the-limits-of-professional-reading-lists
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 20, 2018, 02:16:39 PM
Ghost on the Throne was good but complicated - I enjoyed Alexander the Great more.

About to start The Poison King - The Life and Legend of Mithradates by Adrienne Mayor.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 24, 2018, 09:24:53 AM
Just finished, "The Battles and Campaigns of Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest" by Brig. Gen. John Scales. A very good book about Forrest's Civil War record, not so much about the man himself, with assessments of his tactics and operational abilities as his experience increased during the war. It even includes step-by-step directions to almost all of his battles and campaigns if you're ever near the Tennessee/Mississippi/Alabama area. I enjoyed it greatly.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 24, 2018, 09:12:37 PM
Finished Guadalcanal Diary.  First time I've read it since junior high.  I bought a kindle copy of Vietnam Diary by the same author for less than $4.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 24, 2018, 09:45:52 PM
I just downloaded the Kindle app and my first book for it...Lord have mercy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on May 25, 2018, 06:45:14 AM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/512IbMQEAJL.jpg)

Since my current job has me working on Navy systems, I figured this book would be appropriate.  I also think I got it for free on my Kindle.  Sort of looks like an modern version of Red Storm Rising, which I read almost 30 years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 25, 2018, 07:05:39 AM
Quote from: trailrunner on May 25, 2018, 06:45:14 AM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/512IbMQEAJL.jpg)

Since my current job has me working on Navy systems, I figured this book would be appropriate.  I also think I got it for free on my Kindle.  Sort of looks like an modern version of Red Storm Rising, which I read almost 30 years ago.

Enjoyed that one a great deal. The author has some short fiction about future war out as well through Naval Institute Press.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on May 25, 2018, 05:28:30 PM
^ Thank you much for the heads up on that. It's free for Prime members.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 25, 2018, 05:46:47 PM
trailrunner, I can't remember, do you work in DC? There was a DC thread here somewhere about maybe a DC Grogheads meetup.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on May 25, 2018, 06:17:33 PM
Quote from: bbmike on May 25, 2018, 05:46:47 PM
trailrunner, I can't remember, do you work in DC? There was a DC thread here somewhere about maybe a DC Grogheads meetup.

I live in Springfield and work at the Pentagon.  I don't remember seeing the thread here about a meet up, but I'm set for this weekend.  I'm doing the DC Conscripts ASL Human Wave in two weekends.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 26, 2018, 01:12:48 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 24, 2018, 09:45:52 PM
I just downloaded the Kindle app and my first book for it...Lord have mercy.

:o Christ, Gus, as someone with equivalently low impulse control in buying games and books, allow me to warn you away from that a little too late!

:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 26, 2018, 01:23:38 PM
^Have mercy!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 26, 2018, 02:02:11 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 26, 2018, 01:23:38 PM
^Have mercy!

I have horrible impulse control on purchasing inexpensive history books.  I have enough now that I probably won't be able to read them all before I die of old age.  But they are so hard to turn down.


I'm slowly reading The Sleepwalkers about the origins of World War 1 and it is amazing.  I know a lot more about the Balkins in the late 1890s to 1914 than I ever did, which is really interesting since I've been to most of those countries.  I got that book for either $1.99 or $2.99. 


They keep piling up.  Then Pete Dero gives recommendations for history books that are even free - which sucks away even more reading.  I'm about 25% through "Never Say Goodbye" which is a story of a couple of people during WW2 prior to combat.  And it is interesting.


Guadacanal Diary for $1.99.  Reread it for the first time in 45 years.  Then bought Vietnam Diary for less than $4. 

Every single history book written by Walter Lord excepting the one focusing completely on the North Pole expedition.

I could go on, and on, and on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 26, 2018, 11:37:22 PM
Please don't. I loved Sleepwalkers...I read a hardcopy of that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2018, 01:16:42 PM
Masterpieces: The Best Science Fiction of the 20th Century

https://www.amazon.com/Masterpieces-Best-Science-Fiction-Century/dp/0441011330
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 27, 2018, 04:39:48 PM
Quote from: mirth on May 27, 2018, 01:16:42 PM
Masterpieces: The Best Science Fiction of the 20th Century

https://www.amazon.com/Masterpieces-Best-Science-Fiction-Century/dp/0441011330

Asimov, Clarke, Heinlein, Pohl...  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2018, 04:41:08 PM
My favs  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 27, 2018, 06:05:18 PM
Simak, Tucker...  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on May 27, 2018, 06:20:56 PM
Porn's getting weird.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on May 27, 2018, 08:15:38 PM
Don't forget Roger Zelazny & Poul Anderson. 'This Immortal' (aka 'Call me Conrad') and 'Boat of a Million Years' are must-reads. I wonder if they are both in that collection, though each is a bit long for a regular size anthology.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on May 27, 2018, 08:17:41 PM
 O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 29, 2018, 09:39:41 AM
Just starting, " General Lee's Immortals: The Battles and Campaigns of the Branch-Lane Brigade 1861-1865" by Michael C. Hardy. Slow start so far but lots of good maps and pics promises good things to come.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on May 29, 2018, 09:00:41 PM
I, too, read The Sleepwalkers.  Awesome book.  Took an area and an era I knew little about and informed me to overflow.  Really, really good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 31, 2018, 02:50:05 PM
Quote from: airboy on May 26, 2018, 02:02:11 PM
I have horrible impulse control on purchasing inexpensive history books.

I have horrible impulse control on purchasing EXPENSIVE history books. I don't dare look at inexpensive history books, because that would be worse. I have some hope at least of turning down a $160 monograph on Porphyry of Tyre and the Pagan-Christian debate in late antiquity. (...and then I find a used copy for $21.50.  :smitten:  :hide: Now it's currently sitting on my car seat next to a $160 monograph on freaking Bardaisan of Syria, the Persian grand vizier to the first Christian king, in Armenia, in the decades leading up to Emperor Decius.)


Quote from: airboy on May 26, 2018, 02:02:11 PMI'm slowly reading The Sleepwalkers about the origins of World War 1 and it is amazing.

Agreed. I read a Kindle version of that last year (not cheap, though, iirc). I couldn't tell you now what I recall from it, except the general theme of personal relationships between the principal leaders and how that both delayed and contributed to WW1, but I remember being impressed with it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 31, 2018, 02:52:55 PM
IIRC The Sleepwalkers made me tear up a little bit...it does a great job of bringing out the true tragedy of 1914.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 31, 2018, 03:11:00 PM
My wife and I took a river cruise through the Balkans.  We went from Bulgaria in the East to Vienna in the West.  Throughout the Balkan countries there is amazing hostility to Muslims in general and the Turks specifically.  The number of war monuments to the various wars in the Balkans which overthrew the rule of the Ottomans is amazing.  Similar to what you see in the South for Confederate dead.

The foreign policy and desire for a "greater Serbia" and what happens when the Serbs get the upper hand in my lifetime in the 1990s and in the 1910s is remarkably similar.  Seeing the mass graves and the destruction of Sebrenicia is shocking.  The Serbs are also building a national cathedrial to their form of Catholicism which is another manafestation of the greater serbian ideology. 

The Sleepwalkers is the first book I've read on the Balkans wars of the late 1800s to the 1910s.  The methods used by the Serbs then were pretty similar to those used in the 1990s.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 31, 2018, 05:21:03 PM
^I hope to go on a similar cruise one day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 04, 2018, 08:52:02 AM
Just began Cataphracts by Erich Anderson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on June 04, 2018, 08:53:00 AM
I have this on the way

https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Cobra-Admiral-Halseys-Pacific/dp/1592289789
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on June 09, 2018, 07:41:31 AM
Just finished "A Time for Trumpets" and have now started Bernard Cornwell's book "Waterloo: The History of Four Days, Three Armies"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on June 11, 2018, 07:03:51 AM
Just finished Neil DeGrasse Tyson's Astrophysics for People in a Hurry. Audio book. Read by him.

Good overview for anyone interested the subject.

https://www.amazon.ca/Astrophysics-People-Hurry-deGrasse-Tyson/dp/0393609391

(Borrowed from online library)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on June 13, 2018, 11:10:02 AM
Finished reading the second novel "Post Captain" in the Aubrey-Maturin series by Patrick O'Brian. A good book, but sometimes a grind to get through the non-naval parts of the book. Will move onto "H.M.S. Surprise" at some point.

I put it down for a long time, but I'm starting back on "The Renaissance at War (Smithsonian History of Warfare)" by Thomas Arnold. Excellent book on weaponry and tactics from the period. Goes into great detail about formations, the early guns replacing the crossbow and longbow and so on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 13, 2018, 12:49:00 PM
^ The Smithsonian series is excellent. The Renaissance title is one of my favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 16, 2018, 01:41:10 PM
Just started 'Alice in Chains - The Untold Story' by David De Sola.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on June 27, 2018, 09:33:29 PM
Re-reading "Dune". I lost my paperback versions in a move and it's been awhile.

I will read the "quadrilogy" but that's usually enough Dune for me...

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on June 27, 2018, 10:14:17 PM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on June 27, 2018, 09:33:29 PM
Re-reading "Dune". I lost my paperback versions in a move and it's been awhile.
I wouldn't mind reading "Dune". I like the Lynch movie so I wonder how the book compares to the film.

Finished "The Renaissance at War (Smithsonian History of Warfare)" which I really enjoyed. Started reading "The Victorian City: Everyday Life in Dickens' London" by Judith Flanders which goes into good detail about how the city was back in Dickens' day. London had a population of just over a million around 1820 and the author writes up to 750,000 walked to work every day and how the streets were very noisy. Just finished the part about how gas lights replaced oil lights.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 27, 2018, 11:39:11 PM
The Victorian City sounds like an awesome book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 06, 2018, 10:19:49 AM
The President Is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on July 06, 2018, 10:31:55 AM
Quote from: WallysWorld on June 27, 2018, 10:14:17 PM
Quote from: DoctorQuest on June 27, 2018, 09:33:29 PM
Re-reading "Dune". I lost my paperback versions in a move and it's been awhile.
I wouldn't mind reading "Dune". I like the Lynch movie so I wonder how the book compares to the film.


There was the Lynch movie and a mini-series produced based on the books. Much like the "Hobbit" and "Lord of the Rings" movies there was an outcry from the hardcore fans about missing commas, mis-crossed "T"s and such. I thought the mini-series was a bit closer to the book than the movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 06, 2018, 10:14:43 PM
I've read the Victorian city and enjoyed it.

I finished Monster hunter memoirs Saints.  It was one of the best books in the entire series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on July 07, 2018, 12:47:30 PM
I just finished this book:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51S4ScbrpmL._SX324_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)



And now I've started this book:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/516V1lXMziL._SX346_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 07, 2018, 01:42:19 PM
You'll have to let us know how Instruments of Darkness is. IIRC, SDR  mentioned it a while back and I've been waiting for a Kindle version to come out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 07, 2018, 11:35:50 PM
Yup.  It's a very interesting book.  Makes me want to bust out Bomber Command from GMT whenever I glance at it on my shelf.  I highly recommend reading The Other Battle: Luftwaffe Night Aces vs. Bomber Command by Peter Hinchcliffe as well as Price's Instruments of Darkness.  Hinchcliffe's book does a great job of detailing how each new development in EW affected the tactics used by both sides in the night bombing campaign and the first-hand accounts are fascinating.

https://www.amazon.ca/Other-Battle-Luftwaffe-Versus-Command/dp/0785814183/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1531024031&sr=1-2-fkmr1&keywords=the+other+battle+hinchcliffe (https://www.amazon.ca/Other-Battle-Luftwaffe-Versus-Command/dp/0785814183/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1531024031&sr=1-2-fkmr1&keywords=the+other+battle+hinchcliffe)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51WDEQA186L.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on July 08, 2018, 06:29:58 AM
Which do you recommend If I were to only get one right now?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on July 08, 2018, 08:32:31 AM
Can't go wrong with either.  The Other Battle deals exclusively with the night bombing campaign and does a better job of presenting a complete picture from both sides.  Instruments of Darkness is more narrowly focussed on electronic warfare.  The vast majority of the book centres on the bombing campaign but portions do look at other areas of the war as well as briefly touching on post WWII developments.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 08, 2018, 08:42:38 PM
On my 20-hour drive yesterday, I got through the unabridged Aliens audiobook and got through about eight chapters of Antony Beevor's Berlin audiobook (again, unabridged).

The reader of the Beevor book was fairly dry but the subject matter was great and really helped me stay awake. I've read that book at least three times already but hey, audiobook! (His Stalingrad book is great too - I've listened to the unabridged audiobook for that on long car trips too.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Greybriar on July 10, 2018, 05:31:33 PM
I am currently reading The First Confessor: The Legend of Magda Searus (https://www.amazon.com/First-Confessor-Legend-Magda-Searus/dp/0765383063) by Terry Goodkind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 11, 2018, 04:01:45 PM
Just finished Germany Ascendant, the second book by Prit Buttar's four book series on WWI's Eastern Front. 

Good read.  If you're not familiar with the Eastern Front during WWI, outside of Tannerberg, this series will giev you a good over view.


Time to move on to Russia's Last Grasp. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 11, 2018, 06:40:02 PM
I read the four book series last year and loved it.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 18, 2018, 10:16:18 AM
I found Marcus Aurelius's Meditations for four bucks on a Prime deal yesterday, so I grabbed it and Beevor's Stalingrad. I listened to the audio book version of the latter years ago but never read the book itself. Both actual spine-and-paper books. I'm so used to my Kindle Paperwhite that it'll be nice to have a real book in my hands to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2018, 12:18:44 PM
Beevor's Stalingrad is one of my favorite books ever, right up there with Dreadnaught by Robert Massie.

I am currently reading The Fifth Ward by Dale Lucas.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 19, 2018, 03:46:02 PM
^ O0

I just bought a copy of Ryan's A Bridge Too Far and Clark's Barbarossa: The Russo-German Conflict, 1941-1945. I've read that latter one before, when I was a teen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2018, 05:46:15 PM
I thought I read Clark in college. The Eastern Front is always interesting to me - hard for me to find a book on it I don't like...for WWI and WWII.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 20, 2018, 06:57:40 AM
Since I've been playing Pavlov's House, I've rekindled my interest in Stalingrad. I've found some videos on YouTube posted by locals digging around the area and it amazes me that they find, 75+ years later, all kinds of artifacts at ground level or just a bit under the surface.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 20, 2018, 10:41:39 AM
Biggest battle in the history of the world with millions engaged on both sides is going to leave a mark.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 20, 2018, 11:27:14 AM
It still boggles the mind. I'd love to take one of the tours there, someday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 20, 2018, 12:25:06 PM
Who gives them?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 20, 2018, 12:56:10 PM
http://www.stalingradtours.com/

https://www.theculturalexperience.com/tours/russia-1941-1943-battlefield-tour/

...plus many, many others, just from a preliminary Google search.

There's others that will do Stalingrad as part of a larger tour, including Kharkov/Kursk, Moscow, and the like: http://www.threewhales.ru/t7.htm

These guys do all kinds all over Europe: http://www.alpventures.com/russia.html

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 20, 2018, 01:46:18 PM
I just finished "The Black Chamber" by SM Stirling.

This was a very gripping alt-history military espionage story.  The change point is President Taft dies of a heart attack while running for reelection.  Teddy Roosevelt beats Wilson and gears the USA rapidly up for war with Germany.

Stirling comes up with a plausible way the Germans could have won WW1 in 1916.  The plot is really nasty, but the antoganists have strong positive qualities.  The opponents are not cardboard villians.  Most of the story revolves around a female spy in Teddy's intelligence operation.

I really enjoyed the book and had difficulty putting it down.  I like well written alt-histories and this was the best one Stirling has written since the Peshwar Lancers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 20, 2018, 02:03:49 PM
^That sounds extremely interesting...fondles Amazon...

BC this is a whole new industry to me. I had no idea that we could tour the former Eastern Front now. I wonder if WWI Eastern Front tours are offered...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on July 20, 2018, 06:03:20 PM
My wife has been mentioning that she might be interested in a WW2 tour. She was thinking Normandy, but I told her the eastern front would be good too. At first she wasn't too keen, but after spending a day in Budapest last summer, she is now much more open to the idea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 20, 2018, 09:26:26 PM
Budapest? So you're saying that made her Hungary for it?  :DD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 20, 2018, 09:45:04 PM
...

Drunk Uncle Sir Slash
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 21, 2018, 01:53:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 20, 2018, 02:03:49 PM
BC this is a whole new industry to me. I had no idea that we could tour the former Eastern Front now. I wonder if WWI Eastern Front tours are offered...

I think that one that does the Moscow/Volgograd/Kursk tour includes a stop at Borodino. If not them, somebody includes it, touting it as a look at Napoleon's invasion as well as Hitler's. Not sure about WW1 but-

-aww yeah, here you go Gus: https://www.theculturalexperience.com/tours/ww1-eastern-front-battlefield-tour/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 23, 2018, 12:59:11 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on July 21, 2018, 01:53:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 20, 2018, 02:03:49 PM
BC this is a whole new industry to me. I had no idea that we could tour the former Eastern Front now. I wonder if WWI Eastern Front tours are offered...

I think that one that does the Moscow/Volgograd/Kursk tour includes a stop at Borodino. If not them, somebody includes it, touting it as a look at Napoleon's invasion as well as Hitler's. Not sure about WW1 but-

-aww yeah, here you go Gus: https://www.theculturalexperience.com/tours/ww1-eastern-front-battlefield-tour/

If I retire to the Central Virginia area, there are a bunch of tours of Civil War battlefields.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 23, 2018, 02:45:33 PM
I would love to do a tour of the trenches in France as well. Ypres, Somme, Verdun...I expect it would be a very humbling visit.

Speaking of which, if any of you have not yet, go to Gettysburg. It is unbelievable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 23, 2018, 06:37:03 PM
Been to Gettysburg, Antietam, Manassas, Cedar Run, Harper's Ferry, and New Market. Loved them all.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 23, 2018, 06:44:26 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on July 23, 2018, 06:37:03 PM
Been to Gettysburg, Antietam, Manassas, Cedar Run, Harper's Ferry, and New Market. Loved them all.  O0


I've been to every major Civil War land battlefield except Vicksburg.  I hope to get there this Fall when the weather gets cooler.  My wife calls them "cannon parks" where beautiful scenery is marred by cannons and statues.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 23, 2018, 08:21:48 PM
Gettysburg reminded me of a giant chess board...an amazing place, if not very dark. The atmosphere there is very heavy and palpable.

I would like to go to Antietam next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 23, 2018, 08:32:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 23, 2018, 08:21:48 PM
Gettysburg reminded me of a giant chess board...an amazing place, if not very dark. The atmosphere there is very heavy and palpable.

I would like to go to Antietam next.

The tree that was cut down by rifle fire is in the Smithsonian (unless they replaced it with some BS PC crap).  See that, then see bloody lane and it will give you tremors.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 23, 2018, 09:00:44 PM
I will mentally prepare. I was thunderstruck by a lot of what I saw at Gettysburg.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 23, 2018, 10:24:28 PM
There's a big tower at Antietam you can climb in the middle of the battlefield that gives a great view of the whole field, almost. Lovely country. Also, lots of Groundhogs. Big ones!  :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 24, 2018, 07:33:37 AM
At Gettysburg is the memorial to the troops from PA...it also gives great views of the field and is incredibly sobering.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on July 24, 2018, 08:42:52 AM
Since I live in northern Virginia, I've been to many of the battlefields. I'm planning on going to Antietam this fall since I haven't been there in a while.

I haven't been to Vicksburg battlefield. The only time I've been in the area was for a very last-minute very brief business trip to the Army Corps of Engineers there. Ironically, I left the meeting early to rush home, but when I got close to Jackson, I got a text informing me that my flight had been cancelled and that I was going to spend a bonus night in Jackson. Had I known that earlier, I could have toured the battlefield in the afternoon instead of spending the afternoon looking for a hotel in lovely Jackson MS.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 24, 2018, 10:24:28 AM
I live in Florida. The only battlefields here are over parking places at Wal-Mart when the Snowbirds come back in the Fall.  But they are also very sobering.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Skwerl on July 24, 2018, 10:28:00 AM
Thomas Ligotti - The Collected Short Fiction - one creepy guy!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 25, 2018, 02:29:17 PM
Bro took the nieces (and wife and various relatives) to see the Shiloh battlefield last year around this time. The nieces were less impressed than everyone else. ;) The rifle demonstration got their attention tho!  :D :hide:

We weren't going during a re-enactment, however. Probably do that later. The nieces BADLY wanted to rush down a grass hill, past the cemetery, to the river's edge, but the parents didn't want to risk them falling in. (They were like 11 and 9 at the time, or 10 and 8, which to me seemed rather old to worry about that problem!)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 27, 2018, 06:14:00 AM
Pacific: Silicon Chips and Surfboards, Coral Reefs and Atom Bombs, Brutal Dictators and Fading Empires (https://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=pacific+simon+winchester&tag=mh0b-20&index=stripbooks&hvadid=77996668009838&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_629etkdoss_e)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 12:53:47 PM
Just finished The Fifth Ward: First Watch by Dale Lucas and just began The Bowery Boys: Adventures in Old New York by Greg Young & Tom Meyers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 03:12:54 PM
So I just came from my village library's book sale and got:

- Instrument of War - The German Army 1914-1918 by Dennis Showalter - perfect hard copy, 1.00
- The Boer War by Thomas Pakenham - perfect paperback, 1.00
- Neptune's Inferno - The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal by Jaames Hornfischer - perfect library hard copy, 1.00
- Vietnam War Almanac by Harry Summers Jr. - perfect library copy, 1.00

Total: 4.00

If I would have purchased all of these new at Amazon it would have cost me more than 100.00  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Steelgrave on July 28, 2018, 03:22:02 PM
Way to go, Gus!  :bd: :bd: :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 03:23:49 PM
I feel I am getting old...old men swarm library sales. This was my first foray.

I dig it :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 28, 2018, 04:28:32 PM
Nice, Gus!

I received my for-real-actual books over the past week -

- Stalingrad (Beevor)
- Barbarossa (Clark)
- A Bridge Too Far (Ryan)

It's weird to have actual books on my desk! I've missed these things.  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 06:39:35 PM
 Books are my drug of choice. I have only very recently bought just a couple of Kindle titles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on July 28, 2018, 08:07:33 PM
Quote from: mirth on July 27, 2018, 06:14:00 AM
Pacific: Silicon Chips and Surfboards, Coral Reefs and Atom Bombs, Brutal Dictators and Fading Empires (https://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=pacific+simon+winchester&tag=mh0b-20&index=stripbooks&hvadid=77996668009838&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_629etkdoss_e)

I loved Simon Winchester's "Krakatoa."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on July 28, 2018, 08:38:55 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 03:12:54 PM
So I just came from my village library's book sale and got:

- Neptune's Inferno - The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal by Jaames Hornfischer - perfect library hard copy, 1.00


I recently read this book and liked it a lot. I was at a bookstore last weekend and saw another book that he wrote on the war in the Pacific from 1943-45, so I bought it.

Good finds!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 08:45:06 PM
^Do you remember the title?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: trailrunner on July 28, 2018, 08:59:16 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 08:45:06 PM
^Do you remember the title?

I have the book here in the living room with me:

The Fleet at Flood Tide: America at Total War in the Pacific 1944-1945

(Note that I was off by a year.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on July 28, 2018, 09:15:27 PM
^ I have that one too, thanks to mirth. Excellent book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 09:23:34 PM
Oh yeah, I know that one. Very well reviewed book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 28, 2018, 09:45:12 PM
Read Ghost Fleet a couple of weeks ago.  Quick read.  Not as strong as Red Strom Rising or Red Phoenix, but pretty good. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: OJsDad on July 28, 2018, 09:49:27 PM
Recently, I've finished Collision of Empires and Germany Ascendant.  Both by Prit Buttar.  These are the first two of a four book series about the eastern front during World War 1.  It covers Russia, Germany, Austria-Hunger, and Serbia. 

I've started on the third book in the series, Russia's Last Gasp. 

I'm really starting to get into WWI with this series and the Der Weltkrieg table games. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on July 28, 2018, 10:42:09 PM
Quote from: trailrunner on July 28, 2018, 08:38:55 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 28, 2018, 03:12:54 PM
So I just came from my village library's book sale and got:

- Neptune's Inferno - The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal by Jaames Hornfischer - perfect library hard copy, 1.00


I recently read this book and liked it a lot. I was at a bookstore last weekend and saw another book that he wrote on the war in the Pacific from 1943-45, so I bought it.

Good finds!

Neptune's Inferno is a favorite of mine. I've loved everything I've read by Hornfisher.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 29, 2018, 06:44:48 AM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on July 28, 2018, 10:42:09 PM
Neptune's Inferno is a favorite of mine. I've loved everything I've read by Hornfisher.

same.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 31, 2018, 03:48:37 PM
This is a really good read;

https://www.amazon.co.uk/His-Majestys-Gunboat-658-Mediterranean/dp/0304361836/ref=sr_1_21?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1533070003&sr=1-21&keywords=war+in+the+mediterranean
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 31, 2018, 03:52:00 PM
that does look good
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on July 31, 2018, 03:53:01 PM
Well worth getting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on July 31, 2018, 03:54:13 PM
I have a ridiculous backlog of books right now. Almost as bad as my game backlog :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on August 01, 2018, 04:54:49 PM
Found this in the bargain section a weeks ago and just finished reading it. Gives a good history of the SS in general and brief histories of a lot of Waffen SS divisions. It's basically a compilation of smaller Osprey books.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/517tM1AoN2L._AC_US218_.jpg)

Now back to:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/515LzNyKQlL._AC_US218_.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 01, 2018, 05:37:28 PM
I just bought that Victorian City book for about a dollah.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on August 02, 2018, 08:48:30 AM
Quote from: Gusington on August 01, 2018, 05:37:28 PM
I just bought that Victorian City book for about a dollah.
I'm on the section about traveling to and from London on coaches. I think you'll find the book interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 02, 2018, 08:51:05 AM
Just starting A Stillness at Appomattox by Bruce Catton
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 02, 2018, 09:23:42 AM
Wally - yeah the book looks very interesting. Also looks like a quick, breezy read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 02, 2018, 12:39:28 PM
I found several of the Bruce Catton Civil War books in my Mom's inheritance from her favorite uncle. {checking} Not that one tho.

This reminds me, I have a few giveaway book offers I need to list somewhere...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on August 02, 2018, 02:12:53 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 02, 2018, 12:39:28 PM
I found several of the Bruce Catton Civil War books in my Mom's inheritance from her favorite uncle. {checking} Not that one tho.

This reminds me, I have a few giveaway book offers I need to list somewhere...

Indeed you do!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 02, 2018, 04:31:58 PM
Hm, relatedly, where best to list giveaway (or bids!) on book offers...? I mean here on the forum.

(Note that Catton's books won't be on there. I'm keeping several dozen of the inherited books, at least for a while, and I threw away twelve 55 gallon bags of books which were simply way out of date like old test-books for college classes in the 50s. At some point I should brag about my haul I'm keeping tho!  :D )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on August 02, 2018, 06:56:08 PM
There's always somebody who didn't get the memo.
Had no idea that Timothy Zahn was still writing Star Wars novels.

https://www.amazon.com/Thrawn-Alliances-Star-Wars/dp/052548048X
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 03, 2018, 09:08:46 AM
Quote from: mirth on August 02, 2018, 08:51:05 AM
Just starting A Stillness at Appomattox by Bruce Catton

All the Catton books are first class.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: mirth on August 03, 2018, 09:11:13 AM
Quote from: bob48 on August 03, 2018, 09:08:46 AM
Quote from: mirth on August 02, 2018, 08:51:05 AM
Just starting A Stillness at Appomattox by Bruce Catton

All the Catton books are first class.

O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 04, 2018, 03:07:47 PM
Actions books are great.  They have been popping up on kindle deals occasionally.

I finished the Mercedes Lackey trilogy: Hunter, Elite and Apex.  They were ok young adultish monster hunting books in a dystopian future.  Magic dogs from fairy land give the protagonist her powers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 12, 2018, 12:59:31 AM
Love Lackey.  I find her earlier Valdemar books stronger.  But I generally like her style.  Hadn't heard of the series you read before now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 12, 2018, 09:05:04 AM
I started reading the Kindle edition of Forgotten Battlefields of World War II (Hidden History Book 3) by Joseph Cummins. It's not a bad read, but it's obvious it was not reviewed by an editor, and there's tons of typos in it that are highly annoying. I'm finding this to be a trend more and more often with the authors I don't know as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2018, 03:59:24 PM
Just started Empty Mansions: The Mysterious Life of Hugette Clark and the Spending of a Great American Fortune by Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell Jr.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on August 12, 2018, 05:18:11 PM
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0304361836/ref=pe_3187911_185740111_TE_item
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 15, 2018, 10:44:15 AM
Rebel Yell: The Violence, Passion, and Redemption of Stonewall Jackson by S.C. Gwynne. Six Hundred pages. I should be good for awhile.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on August 15, 2018, 12:43:20 PM
Pacific Crucible: War at Sea in the Pacific, 1941-1942   https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005LW5JL2/ref=oh_aui_d_detailpage_o02_?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The Conquering Tide: War in the Pacific Islands, 1942-1944   https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TG24BC6/ref=oh_aui_d_detailpage_o01_?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Both by Ian W. Toll.


Next will be The Fall of Europe https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D8R1DTY/ref=oh_aui_d_detailpage_o04_?ie=UTF8&psc=1
(only $2)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 15, 2018, 04:53:11 PM
Toll's duology has been on my Kindle for a while.  O0

Just haven't gotten to it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on August 18, 2018, 10:30:14 PM
Just finished up 3 Osprey booklets.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51C%2BB8oLKOL.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51J8xzPv6DL.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51YPq-dEjvL.jpg)


The Hitlerjugend vs Canuck one was decent but relied heavily on excerpts from Mark Zuehlke's trilogy Juno Beach, Holding Juno, and Breakout From Juno which I've already read.   

The Cromwell vs. Jagdpanther had some interesting info on the development of each vehicle but there wasn't a lot of detail on their use in combat from a tanker's perspective. 

The Canadian Forces one was pretty weak and really only covered the Army.  The Air Force and Navy were barely touched upon.  Much of the info on the Army was focused on minutiae such as helmet lining and how the buttons on uniforms differed from the Brits.  Little on regimental histories or deployments, OOBs, battle history, etc.


Just starting this one now.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61fOYajiPEL.jpg)

Marius and Sulla have interested me ever since I read characterizations of them in McCullough's Men of Rome series.  Looking forward to this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 26, 2018, 11:12:57 AM
I just finished Leckie's "Helmet for my Pillow" about the 1st Marine Division in the pacific.  From the same outfit came the book, "With the Old Breed" by EB Sledge.

Leckie was a very educated man from New Jersey and professional writer (newspaper reporter) when he enlisted after Pearl Harbor.  Sledge was younger and from the rural South who later got an education from the GI Bill.

Leckie was in and out of the brig.  He really disliked being under military discipline.  He was also a front line troop (machine gunner and scout).  Sledge did not get into as much trouble, trusted the Marines that they were trying to make them successful and to stay alive, did not hate officers as much.  Sledge was a "close to the front" troop as a mortar guy.

Both write about the same things.  Sledge survived the entire campaign and fought in Okinawa.  Leckie was hurt at Palau and spent the last months of the war in a US hospital.  Both lost about everyone they enlisted with to death, wounds, suicide, or insanity.

Both are good books, but I like Sledge's better.  Leckie's ending annoys me.  He writes about the "sin" of the atomic bomb.  Leckie has sympathy for the Japanese infantry.  Sledge like most all other Pacific vets was very greatful for the A-bomb and really hated the Japs.  Sledge thought the A-Bomb probably saved his life and the lives of many Japanese. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 26, 2018, 02:57:23 PM
...I feel like some names got flipped around a little in that last paragraph, AB?  ???
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 26, 2018, 06:46:25 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 26, 2018, 02:57:23 PM
...I feel like some names got flipped around a little in that last paragraph, AB?  ???

Thanks - fixed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 26, 2018, 07:54:24 PM
Now reading The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on September 02, 2018, 07:31:50 AM
Not much to do with grogs but I'm reading Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdian.

Pretty good so far and from my time in HS working the service industry I can concur it's a pretty good representation of the industry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 02, 2018, 11:50:48 AM
The Wife just read that and enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2018, 07:49:14 PM
Now reading I, Ripper by Stephen Hunter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 11, 2018, 08:08:18 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 11, 2018, 07:49:14 PM
Now reading I, Ripper by Stephen Hunter.

The same Stephen Hunter that wrote a novel about an expert WW2 German sniper with one of the very first 'Vampyr' IR-equipped StGs? Titled 'The Master Shot', or something similar?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2018, 08:24:18 PM
Yep, he's got a lot of sniper titles. I, Ripper is so graphic and detailed I've almost had to stop reading a few times and I'm only 50 pages in.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 11, 2018, 08:36:03 PM
I read that 'Master Shot' book at least 30-odd years ago. It doesn't seem that long...  :(

We should have a thread for good WW2 fiction.

Lots of great stuff such as 'Whip' by Martin Caidin, 'HMS Ullyses'/'Guns of Navarone'/'Where Eagles Dare' by Alister MacLean, 'EASTER DAY, 1941' by some guy named Bordon, 'Von Ryan's Express' by What'sHisFace (I actually have the book somewhere  ::)) and so much more...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2018, 09:07:08 PM
WWII fiction and alternate history?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 11, 2018, 09:41:51 PM
No, keep them separate.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 12, 2018, 08:15:46 AM
Don't really see the need for it right now - it's not like this basic reading thread is really setting the world on fire.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on September 14, 2018, 08:40:32 PM
I'm reading Memoirs of Sergeant Bourgogne: 1812 - 1813. Should have started in July as I wouldn't have needed the air conditioner. About 50% in and he's just now reaching the Bezarina.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 15, 2018, 08:29:37 AM
Having finished some other things, I'm well into Anthony Everitt's The Rise of Rome: the Making of the World's Greatest Empire (a narrative history of the Republic, for what I suppose are obvious reasons ;) ).

And I'm about to start A Night With Saddam, which despite its pr0ny-sounding title  :buck2: is actually the story of the Special Ops medic who treated Saddam Hussein the night he was pulled out of his spider-hole, plus the Dr.'s campaign in Gulf War 2 leading up to that point. (Necessarily a brief campaign since, y'know, we flattened the Iraqis hard once we went to work.) Bro had gotten it for Christmas or maybe his birthday from someone (he knows a guy from church who was long-range recon special ops in the Middle East, who was one of the teams to go out putting up temporary beacons for the copters to navigate when attacking the Bin Ladin compound, so maybe from him), and lent it to the rest of us to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on September 20, 2018, 05:23:13 PM
I'm reading 'Goring' by Roger Manvell and Heinrich Fraenkel. Its pretty sobering stuff so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 20, 2018, 05:41:03 PM
Having gotten into A Night with Saddam, which is a title I'll never not-cringe at typing, or thinking, let me clarify that the author wasn't Hussein's primary medical examiner -- the one who was made famous on television -- but had that fellow not come on duty a few hours earlier it would have been the author. Instead, he happened to be hanging around nearby out of curiosity when someone came in for the night watch and realized that Hussein should have a trained medic in the cell with him (along with the usual translator and security guard, plus any extra visitor) for the night. He was the nearest and most senior medic, so that turned out to be him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on September 24, 2018, 07:20:31 AM
World War Z by Max Brooks.  I've read it damn near six or seven times at this point but as it is near October, I thought it time to pull it out and enjoy it again.

Afterwards, I've a bevvy of horror short story novels to delve in to.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on October 01, 2018, 11:40:04 AM
Picked up two very interesting books at my local used bookstore this weekend. The first is somewhat of a biography on COL John Boyd called "A Mind of War: John Boyd and American Security". This was an interesting find as I recently gave a presentation for lawyers wherein I explained the OODA loop and how it can be used in law practice.

Second, I picked up "Target Switzerland: Swiss Armed Neutrality in WWII". The premise of this book is interesting, that due to circumstances involving geography and a national history of arming and training its citizens, Switzerland was able to maintain independence despite overwhelming German conquest in Europe. Makes me think of how the right to keep and bear arms might discourage a foreign invader from attacking our shores.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 01, 2018, 03:24:23 PM
Is the Target Switzerland book a rewite/update of The Swiss and the Nazis three years later?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on October 01, 2018, 03:31:21 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on October 01, 2018, 03:24:23 PM
Is the Target Switzerland book a rewite/update of The Swiss and the Nazis three years later?

Not sure, but it is the same author. The one I have appears to pre-date the book you reference by 9 years.

interesting...in researching the author, I see he is a big Pro-Second Amendment scholar and has argued cases in the Supreme Court on behalf of the NRA and others. I have some of his books on the Second Amendment. I didn't initially make the connection.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on October 04, 2018, 05:50:56 PM
Just started Operation Crossbow:  Hunting Hitler's V-Weapons.


(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71YTOgW42aL.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 04, 2018, 08:26:02 PM
That sounds great.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 14, 2018, 08:29:52 AM
If you are interested in the night battless of Guadalcanal, or in the effects of doctrine on how people fight, The Gun Club is well worth a read.
https://www.amazon.com/Gun-Club-U-S-S-Duncan-Esperance/dp/0999075306

This is on a USN destroyer, and the Battle of Cape Esperance.  The middle third of the book is on the actual battle.
This section is a must read if you are a naval wargamer.  Admiral Norman Scott tried to come up with a plan to engage the Japanese forces.  The IJN had trained for night battles for years and this was their great advantage.  Radar was new, had lots of teething issues, and was not trusted by officers who had not grown up with it.
The USN had not done any night fighting training, because it was too chaotic and too dangerous.
Most accounts do not mention all the errors that nearly led to a complete disaster.  As it was, friendly fire was almost as dangerous as the enemy.  USS Fahrenholt lost it's mast to the cruiser Boise, and Duncan was sunk by Boise.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 14, 2018, 10:53:06 AM
Another October, another Missing 411 release! Still not including the Pinson boy lost in Jan 2016 about an hour and a half south of me, though that's a classic case.  :'(

This one starts off with an incident in the Thousand Mile War, however! -- which I think is the first incident the author, David Paulides, has listed in combat operations. He's listed incidents that happened during wartimes, including a few other WW2 incidents in this book, but not in actual ops. The reason for this is fairly obvious, I suppose: in combat ops, weird disappearances/deaths could usually be attributed to the enemy and/or to other normal fringe results of operations.

In this case, about a dozen troops (not sure if it was a platoon per se) was stationed on one of the Aleutian islands on the route to Attu, where by then the Japanese invaders had been bottled up. They had previously been on this island, too, but had been driven off. The troops were stationed there as a radio beacon, since Attu was hundreds of miles west, but the staging areas for ops against Attu were even farther still to the east! This station helped planes and ships navigate the area and the passage back and forth; and by securing the island there was at least a chance of recovering crash survivors if a plane had to go down in the sea nearby or on land.

So it was an important job, but also a quite safe one, since by now the Japanese at Attu weren't in a position to invade east again, and had there been moves by the Japanese to strike back in this direction, there would have been a lot of US ships and planes to notice the attempt (and maybe try to do something about it). At any rate there was no such move detected, and after the war records haven't evidenced any such move was planned. So no enemy action in the area.

The missing soldier told his fellows (properly) that he was going to do a perimeter walk around the camp to stretch his legs; but he never came back. The other troops searched the barren 8 mile island for him, and some help was sent in from HQ for the search, but nothing was found of him. The weather wasn't too bad (for the Aleutians), but the prevailing theory was that he had gone down to the shore and somehow gotten swept into the sea by a rogue wave, then pulled out to sea by an undertow (or perhaps taken by a predator once in the water). Naturally his family was distraught since, despite the climate, they had been relieved that he had lucked into a safe place to work during the war -- and suddenly he was gone for no clear reason.

If I recall correctly (I don't have the book at hand atm), his body and effects were found in 1994 by a expedition team on the island doing natural science work. They found him in a shallow crevice, practically on the other side of the island from the camp, and 1200 feet higher in elevation. There was no obvious sign, from the remains, for how he had died -- no wounds or broken bones -- although of course by now there had been a good deal of degradation to the body, even with preservation in the Arctic climate. The radio beacon team had long since explored the island before he disappeared, so there was no particular reason why he would have gone off alone, up the side of the mountain (and maybe down again?) to the other side of the island; and certainly he hadn't said he would be doing so, but rather just doing a perimeter camp walk to stretch his legs. It would have taken him more than 8 hours in that terrain to even hike to where his body was found, and that's assuming good weather by the local standards! (Instead of gale-force fog and rain and snow mixed together. ;) )

I'm unsure from the report whether searchers had tried to cover that area on the ground, but if not it would have been due to the unreasonableness of him being all the way up and over there. And planes had been sent to fly the whole island looking for him: they might not have spotted him in the crevice, but he could have seen and tried to signal to them. Obviously he was armed, and could have shot rounds to catch the attention of ground searchers at any time, had he been able or willing. Mentally, his team reported that he was in good spirits and glad to be there rather than slogging through a hot combat zone, and looking forward to getting home to his family, so suicide was ruled out -- and this would have been a goofy way to commit suicide anyway, when there were plenty of easier and handier options (like for example bullets).

It ticks a number of M411 boxes; and being a fan of the Thousand Mile War, I made a note to share it on a thread here somewhere when I got around to it.  O:-)


UPDATE: check my next post downthread for corrections and clarifications -- http://grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg633290#msg633290
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 14, 2018, 11:08:35 AM
Some excellent books here. 

@ DammitCarl!: if you enjoyed World War Z, consider giving Metro 2033 a try.  Not exactly the same, but a very good and somewhat scary book.  The paperbacks are pretty reasonably priced.

@ Bes:  I suspect you've read this, but if not, be sure to check out Neptune's Inferno.

I've got a couple of books in the queue.  I'm almost finished with a historical novel called Wolf Hall, about Thomas Cromwell during the era of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.  The author has a very distinctive writing style that I can't decide if I like or dislike, but it's certainly unusual.

I'm on my third try with The Rules of the Game, about Jutland and British naval culture.  I'm not going to sugar coat it - the book's a slog.  The first part is good about Jutland, but then it just goes into this lengthy biography and background of the key players and...it's just long and not that interesting.  I'm past the halfway part and we're back into the battle, so I might actually get through it, but I just don't know.  There are too many good books to be tied down with something I'm not enjoying.

Finally, I'm about 2/3 of the way through Don Quixote, a book I've always wanted to read.  Not sure if I'll finish this, either.  I wanted to see why it's a classic...ok, I guess I got the gist.   

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 14, 2018, 11:09:24 AM
Dracul, prequel to Dracula, written by Bram Stoker's great-grandnephew, Dacre Stoker. It is epic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 16, 2018, 10:02:19 PM
And how very Halloween of you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 17, 2018, 08:11:56 AM
Some corrections and updates to my previous post, on the disappearance of Corporal Carl "Bud" Houston during the Thousand Mile War (now that I've got the book back in front of me  ::) ):

Buldir Island was where it happened. I had the 2/3rds proportion right, and the hundreds of miles distance either way, but not between Attu and the nearest staging island. It's 2/3rds of the way to the Russian coast from the Alaskan coast. It's only 50 miles east from Attu, where the Japanese invasion garrison had been bottled in. 1400 miles west of Fairbanks, 600 miles east of Siberia (or perhaps more correctly, Kamchatka).

The disappearance happened on March 3rd, 1945, so the Attu garrison had been very firmly long-since locked down, and there was serious doubt whether they'd even be evacuated -- no Imperial ships had been sighted in Aleutian waters for more than 2 years by that point. So enemy action can be even more firmly ruled out.

Buldir isn't 8 miles long, but rather 4 miles. So Corporal Houston wouldn't have had to travel quite as far to die in the rocks, but on the other hand his squadron would have had a little easier time searching the island for him. It seems likely that they checked nearby where he said he'd be taking a walk, and perhaps walked the shoreline around the island. They did ask for air support in locating him, late on March 3rd when he didn't come back from his walk around the camp; and Shemya Air Base sent planes to help find him when the weather permitted. (The article doesn't call it a perimeter walk, but when a soldier says he's going to stretch his legs in the "vicinity" of the camp, then I know what that's meant to imply.)

The camp was about 100 feet above the shoreline, but I'm not sure how far away laterally from the shore -- again, the prevailing theory was either that he had been swept out to sea after falling in somehow, or that he had been buried by an avalanche. This suggests that there was evidence of a fresh avalanche, but that detail wasn't explicitly said. His body was located in a situation where a high-mountain avalanche might have thrown it, wedged in a crack between some boulders, but it was on the opposite side of the island, about as far as possible from the camp, and 1500 feet farther up in elevation.

He was found in July 1998 by scientists with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, who happened to make camp just around some boulders from his body, a few yards outside camp. In the crevice, they found a skull, leg, arm, and pelvis bone, an Army belt buckle (according to some sources), his M1 rifle with bayonet, his issued boots, a US coin and pocketwatch, and his wallet. The wallet was too deteriorated for identification, which was made by dental records from remaining teeth in the skull, as well as other bone confirmation. The author doesn't note this, but Grogs would know that this indicates both of his dog tags were missing! (Had they been so damaged somehow as to both be illegible, that would have been unusual enough to be mentioned in the official reports he's using as source material.)

The author doesn't mention the squadron being in charge of a radio beacon -- rather they were a Weather Squadron. The two tasks aren't mutually exclusive, of course, especially for only one squadron.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: RommelFox on October 17, 2018, 12:12:47 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 14, 2018, 11:09:24 AM
Dracul, prequel to Dracula, written by Bram Stoker's great-grandnephew, Dacre Stoker. It is epic.

I'm going to have to add this to my list.  He's got quite the pair of shoes to fill.

I'm reading "The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt" by Richard H. Wilkinson.  It's a wonderful book and very accessible even if you don't have much prior knowledge of Egyptian history/religion.  He really lays out what they believed and goes into quite a bit of depth for many deities.  There's over 1500 known ones, so he had to pick and choose a bit.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 17, 2018, 02:09:30 PM
^You won't be disappointed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 30, 2018, 09:36:09 AM
Trying to decide which to start first, Bill O'Reilly's latest: Killing the SS or Prit Buttar's latest: On A Knife's Edge: The Ukraine, Novenber 1942- March 1943. Or maybe both at the same time.  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 30, 2018, 10:17:07 PM
Quote from: Toonces on October 14, 2018, 11:08:35 AM

I've got a couple of books in the queue.  I'm almost finished with a historical novel called Wolf Hall, about Thomas Cromwell during the era of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.  The author has a very distinctive writing style that I can't decide if I like or dislike, but it's certainly unusual.

I'm on my third try with The Rules of the Game, about Jutland and British naval culture.  I'm not going to sugar coat it - the book's a slog.  The first part is good about Jutland, but then it just goes into this lengthy biography and background of the key players and...it's just long and not that interesting.  I'm past the halfway part and we're back into the battle, so I might actually get through it, but I just don't know.  There are too many good books to be tied down with something I'm not enjoying.


I finished Wolf Hall about two weeks ago.  It's a very good book.  It ends (spoiler alert) just after Thomas More loses his head, and just prior to the saga of Ann Boleyn.  The second book is about Boleyn's troubles.  Unfortunately the library doesn't have it in Kindle version, so I might have to keep an eye out for a cheap used physical copy.

I finished The Rules of the Game during my trip to Norfolk last week.  I'm going to go ahead and give it two thumbs up as well.  While the middle is a bit of a slog, now that I've finished it I wish I had gone ahead and read the middle more closely.  The author really ties things together at the end, and I am very impressed with how he draws the content of the book into lessons for today's military.  In fact, I'm considering giving the book another, closer read at some point, perhaps next summer.

On the flight home I started Castles of Steel, which I've had for a while but never read.  I'm also considering starting The Lord of the Rings trilogy.  I never finished it the first time I read it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 30, 2018, 11:55:23 PM
You really should read The Hobbit first.  Not because you have to have read it in order to make sense of LotR, but, because it's a complete-ist thing.  And it's a good story, for all that most folks feel it's a 'kids' story and LotR is an 'adult' story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 31, 2018, 08:46:13 AM
I remember the first time I tried reading the Fellowship of the Ring (given to me by my oldest aunt for Christmas long, long ago), and I was totally lost. And bored. I was admittedly also like 9. ;) But I also hadn't read the Hobbit yet. I think I had already been a fan of the Rankin-Bass animated adaptation of the Hobbit, but I just couldn't connect them together.

Actually reading the Hobbit helped a lot. Though I'm not gonna lie, LotR is super dry -- as I assume you already know, Commander, from having given up on it once already ;) -- and it doesn't get less dry as it goes.

Just try to skim over the photorealistic descriptions of everything, if you can. I appreciate those somewhat more when I'm already familiar with the story. (Same goes for the Wheel of Time, though nothing can help Crossroads of Twilight.  :buck2: )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 31, 2018, 10:22:16 AM
Fellowship is pretty slow until you get to Moria. From there I couldn't put it down.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 31, 2018, 10:27:13 AM
Castles of Steel FTW!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on October 31, 2018, 11:23:57 AM
I had a random urge to read Bram Stoker's Dracula...so I am.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Double Deuce on October 31, 2018, 11:30:44 AM
For my birthday, my wife recently picked me up a copy of "Where the Iron Crosses Grow: The Crimea 1941–44". More detailed and interesting than I was expecting. Only have about 50 pages left. Need to find me some more books on this theater.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 31, 2018, 05:45:41 PM
I never finished Dracula, but what I read was fantastic.  I think I got about halfway through.

It's packed away in a box somewhere in my house or I'd definitely be pulling it out right now.  What a great idea for Halloween reading!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on October 31, 2018, 08:42:30 PM
I've read Dracula all the way through.  I should probably read that again soon.  Mostly reading D&D manuals.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 31, 2018, 08:57:08 PM
Dracula is one of my favorite books of all time. If you liked that try Dracul, the new prequel written by Bram Stoker's great grandnephew, Dacre. I am almost done with it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 31, 2018, 09:29:56 PM
The immediate book to read after Dracula should be Saberhagen's The Dracula Tapes (pun with Tepes not actually intended I think).

It kicked off an ongoing series of various quality, though the "Dracula" scenes remained excellent, that ran until Saberhagen's death. But the original book is a great example of using plot holes in the original to retcon the story somewhat.

Part of me would like to see it adapted into a TV series, but I have no confidence they wouldn't mess it up. Dracula as a more-or-less pious Christian mafia leader just minding his own business (mostly ;) ) aside from occasionally herding the cats of hostile vampires and either yanking them in line or making them sorry they 'crossed' him...   :coolsmiley: At least two of the books half-serve as prequel novels for Dracula's pre- and early-vampire life.


The first sequel, with Dracula teaming up with Sherlock Holmes, is probably the best of the series after the Tapes; helped a lot by staying in one timeline. Saberhagen was not at his best trying to write 'modern' scenes.


Note: I don't know who reads the audible book, but the Kindle version is only $5.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on November 01, 2018, 08:50:17 AM
^Best book in that series is An Old Friend of the Family. Despite there being some iffy books it remains one of my favorite series. I love the way Dracula is portrayed. It would make a fantastic TV series or movie(s) but, yeah, it would have to be done right.

[side note: JasonPratt earns 100 bonus points for that post]  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 01, 2018, 09:26:23 AM
Bonus points revoked for not providing links.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 01, 2018, 09:32:41 AM
And what do sausages have to do with this particular subject?  :coolsmiley:   But if Jason provides them, of course I won't say no.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 01, 2018, 12:08:05 PM
Blood sausages. Duh.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 01, 2018, 08:12:37 PM
Did any of you guys try Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter?  I thought it was pretty clever and quite enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 01, 2018, 08:49:40 PM
Yeah I liked it and even liked the movie.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on November 01, 2018, 09:25:21 PM
Quote from: Gusington on November 01, 2018, 08:49:40 PM
Yeah I liked it and even liked the movie.

Oh, Gussy -smh-
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 01, 2018, 09:42:25 PM
I never saw the movie, but I'm game to give it a shot.  I honestly had no idea what the book was about (besides Lincoln hunting vampires).  The premise was really clever IMO.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 01, 2018, 09:50:56 PM
Was that the movie where Grant turned into a werewolf and bit the head off of Jeff Davis? Or was that, Wild, Wild West with Will Smith?  ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 02, 2018, 08:21:51 AM
Quote from: Gusington on November 01, 2018, 09:26:23 AM
Bonus points revoked for not providing links.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/bookseries/B00CKCXHB0/ref=dp_st_0812523830

Note that this is only a handy Amazon list. Some editions of some books are only available at grossly inflated prices, but anything can be found cheap in some editions.

I definitely put Old Friend of the Family at 3rd best of the series, and one of my favorites. It starts, however, the trend of the series only being very good when Dracula is around. Quick plot: a wealthy American family's daughter, near modern Chicago, is slain and their son kidnapped for ransom (being sent back in pieces) -- but they're descended from Mina Harker, and rousing the wrath of the King of Vampires turns out not to be an ideal long-term survival plan.

(He decides at the end of the story to immigrate to Chicago to enjoy modern life and keep an eye on his beloved's descendants. So he's like having a polite and benevolent old mafia uncle whose nephews and nieces get into supernatural trouble on a regular basis, sometimes by fools who think it's a good idea to challenge THE KING OF ALL VAMPIRES YOU MORONS!  :D )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 02, 2018, 08:54:03 AM
Points returned 👍
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bbmike on November 02, 2018, 11:48:02 AM
An Old Friend of the Family at 3rd best? (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aarcentral.com%2Femoti%2Fgaah.gif&hash=b1580987d04406014b8b5b5232c86c9a7582fad1) -25 points.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Yskonyn on November 02, 2018, 02:10:33 PM
Started 'The coming of Conan the Cimmerian' , the first book in the series of three by Del Rey publishing.
These books tell the unedited stories as written by Robert Howard of my favourite hero! The tales are printed in the order that Howard wrote them, not the chronological order of Conan's life.
I also have a 'complete' bundle where the stories are told in chronological order, but this book features the (often heavily) edited tales by other authors to make them more modern, which I personally find pretty blasphemous. So when I found out that 'complete' edition was just a load of crap I went digging and found the Del Rey books. They should portray the tales in their original form.

Its good reading to get inspired for Nefaro's upcoming campaign as well.  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on November 05, 2018, 12:04:55 AM
Finishing "Thunder in the Argonne" by Douglas Mastriano

https://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Argonne-Americas-Greatest-Campaigns/dp/0813175550/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541393519&sr=8-1&keywords=thunder+in+the+argonne (https://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Argonne-Americas-Greatest-Campaigns/dp/0813175550/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541393519&sr=8-1&keywords=thunder+in+the+argonne)

A great military history of the AEF's Meuse Argonne Offensive. Unlike other authors, he includes a good view of the German side; who the units were, what their commander's were thinking etc. The author is a Colonel in the US Army, so he describes the fighting from the an almost purely military point of view. Very little of the political discussion that you might see in other WWI books. This is also not a Pershing fanboy book. He rightly calls out the good and bad to Pershing's methods. For example, Pershing's insistence that regimental commanders lead from the front, usually meant that they were unable to properly coordinate their subordinates. Finally, it is not an AEF cheerleading book either. Other authors have over or under emphasized the US contribution to ending the Great War; I think the author gets the balance just right.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 05, 2018, 03:15:40 PM
Is this where you got a lot of those regimental histories you've been reporting in the other category? Those are good reading.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on November 05, 2018, 03:19:47 PM
Currently re-reading the Foundation series by Asimov. Trying to work in all the novels not just the originals. Still a great read... although I'm actually listening to audiobooks.

Something that's popped out at me this time through is the fact that, although never explicitly said, Asimov has implicitly written a galaxy with no alien life in it. Just humans on 25 millions worlds through out our galaxy.
I wonder if he had this as a personal belief, or just to make the novels easier from a not having to deal with aliens point of view....?

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Yskonyn on November 05, 2018, 03:39:55 PM
Asimov is great! I haven't read everything yet, but indeed, I never realised it either, but there aren't any aliens now that you mention it.  :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on November 09, 2018, 07:28:02 AM
It was pretty early Asimov, so he may not have thought of it.
Also, a number of reviewers were surprised that a female was a major character.  How times have changed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on November 09, 2018, 07:29:58 AM
Very early Cold War Espionage.
If you're interestted in that, this is turning into a great read.

https://kansaspress.ku.edu/978-0-7006-2192-7.html
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 10, 2018, 11:31:26 AM
Reading Day of the Barbarians by Alessandro Barbero.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 10, 2018, 10:57:30 PM
Just finished, "Rebel Yell" by S.C. Gwynne, an excellent biography of Stonewall Jackson.  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 28, 2012, 01:05:59 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on November 05, 2018, 03:15:40 PM
Is this where you got a lot of those regimental histories you've been reporting in the other category? Those are good reading.  O0

Actually, all of those I got as free PDF downloads from either the US Army Center for Military History, Google Books, or the Internet Archive.

I usually just do a search on the regiment. Say the "305th infantry", and then came up with all sorts of good stuff, including the regimental histories.

WWI is easier than WWII because most of the books are out of copyright.   

Here are some samples:

305th Infantry, 77th Division
https://archive.org/details/cu31924027818461 (https://archive.org/details/cu31924027818461)

From Upton the Meuse, 307th Infantry, 77th Division
https://archive.org/details/fromuptontomeuse00rainrich/page/n7 (https://archive.org/details/fromuptontomeuse00rainrich/page/n7)

313th Infantry, 79th Division, "Baltimore's Own"
https://archive.org/details/historyof313thus00thor/page/n5 (https://archive.org/details/historyof313thus00thor/page/n5)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 11, 2018, 01:14:40 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on November 10, 2018, 10:57:30 PM
Just finished, "Rebel Yell" by S.C. Gwynne, an excellent biography of Stonewall Jackson.  :bd:

I've got Rebel Yell here on my nightstand.  I'm not enjoying it as much as I'd hoped, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 16, 2018, 10:59:28 PM
How far along are you Toonces?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on November 16, 2018, 11:35:23 PM
Early.  Maybe 100 pages; I think I stopped just after he earned his first star.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bob48 on November 17, 2018, 08:39:56 AM
I recently read Sherman's autobiography which I thought was very interesting. Enjoyed it, it was a good read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 17, 2018, 05:34:51 PM
Just started The Indian World of George Washington. Fascinating topic, but this is very dense, like a college text.

May skim it and then move on to Autumn of the Black Snake, about the founding of the US Army in the late 18th century, to expand US borders and fight Indian tribes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on December 04, 2018, 10:02:28 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on November 10, 2018, 10:57:30 PM
Just finished, "Rebel Yell" by S.C. Gwynne, an excellent biography of Stonewall Jackson.  :bd:

I really enjoyed this as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 05, 2018, 11:16:36 AM
I decided to jump into Rebel Yell again, but it's still not grabbing me like y'all.  I'm on page 173, so about a quarter of the way through.  I may shelve it and give it another try next summer or something.

Meantime, last weekend I decided to read Rick Atkinson's Crusade again (3rd or 4th time I think) and re-started his Guns at Last Light last of the Liberation Trilogy.

I'm about a third of the way through A Bright Shining Lie as well.  I'm sort of bouncing between these books as the mood strikes me.  I'm still looking for a "can't put it down, just one more page" book...haven't read anything like that until the last 200 pages of The Rules of the Game.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Barthheart on December 05, 2018, 12:27:14 PM
Just finished Clockwork Dynasty by Daniel H. Wilson. Not high art but definitely something different in S.F. Fun read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Adam13th on December 06, 2018, 09:13:06 AM
I have just started reading the running man from stephen king, I am on the page 3 I really hope it will be ok
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 14, 2018, 11:41:10 PM
Reading the Kindle version of Warrior Dynasty - The Rise and Fall of Sweden as a Military Power 1611-1721 by Henrik O. Lunde.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 16, 2018, 09:33:16 AM
In Plain Sight - Dan Willis

The protagonist is a rune-maker, a flexible but generally not a terribly powerful mage. He is a detective and there are multiple mysteries going on simultaneously:
a] A disease constructed through magic killed everyone at a soup kitchen
b] A man is missing and his sister hires our detective to look for him
c] A murder investigation of a guy who works for a major import/export warehouse
d] Then two more mysteries branch out from this.

This was a very tightly written book. Parts of this I could figure out, but other parts I could not until revealed by the author. The clues were mostly there but were not obviously related.

Six super powerful sorcers are in New York. They use their powers for money (one makes things which broadcasts power, another makes tiny bits of metal that operate as refigeration/cooling devices, etc.....

I finished this in a couple of days.

Seldom have I read a book with this complex of a plot so clearly laid out in so few pages.

https://www.amazon.com/Plain-Sight-Arcane-Casebook-Book-ebook/dp/B07KVP3DN2/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

a "Smuckatelli" also rated this highly on Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 22, 2018, 09:46:50 PM
Just started The Kaiser's Battlefleet - German Capital Ships 1871-1918 by Aidan Dodson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 22, 2018, 10:49:59 PM
Just finished Hargreaves' Blitzkrieg Unleashed, which I'm including in my collection of accounts of various WW2 fronts told from predominantly the diaries and recollections of German soldiers, from the private up to the general. I haven't even started on the Eastern Front (or Fronts rather), and I still lack filling some gaps in the West and South, but I'm coming along. :)

One big point from this book I hadn't read or heard before, was that Hitler actually started the invasion of Poland a day or two after gaining the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact. But he called a halt to it at the last moment after receiving both an ultimatum from Britain that they would stand by their promise to avenge a Polish invasion, and also a letter from Mussolini apologizing that while he would love to be able to help, he had to be honest and report that he didn't think he could convince the Italian people to go for it! Hitlers generals scrambled to call off the attack, and mostly succeeded, but a few incursions happened anyway, most importantly a commando attack to secure a pair of railway tunnels in the southern mountains. The attack sort-of succeeded, but without immediate followup the commandos had to abandon the attempt, and some were captured, though handed back as Slavic agitators from the recently annexed Czechs. (Not a man was in fact Slav or Czech.)

This puts the first true though partial rebuttal I've found to a part of Suvorov's Icebreaker theory, by the way, where the plan is constantly represented as Hitler and Stalin agreeing to kick off the invasion of Poland together on Sept 1st (not August 26th), which Stalin then reneged on after Hitler had already launched, begging off as being unprepared and starting two weeks later -- so that Hitler could catch the world's blame, and Stalin could promote himself as saving the Poles and securing his borders.

This sequence could still be essentially true, however -- Suvorov does have his sources and details, which cannot be simply dismissed. The harmonization would be that Hitler decided on a definite attack of Sept 1st despite the nerve-shattering setback which caused him to cancel the invasion, because in the intervening period he had gotten reassurances from Stalin that they would divide up Poland at the same time. Hargreaves doesn't provide any direct evidence for this; but I'm not sure his silence counts in this case, since he is observably shallow on just what the Molotov-Ribbentropp pact involved. He tells enough to show that he does know it involved the mutual military elimination of Poland between the two powers, but he kinnnnnnd of just elides past it as much as possible, and barely discusses the Soviet side of action (though he's far from rose-colored about what was really happening there).

Anyway, the aborted attack is still good information I hadn't run across before, though offset later by the odd omission of any reference at all to the famous Visnia "40 to 1" defense.  ??? I can recommend the book readily.


Along the way, I learned (toward the end) about Johann Adolf Graf von Kielmansegg, who served in the 1st Panzer Division from the start through the end of the war, through France and the gates of Moscow, and who kept himself clean enough that he was granted command of the first post-war Bundeswehr and eventually rose to command all Central European NATO forces! -- dying at last in 2006 at the age of 99! Surely the last of the Panzer Generals. I would love to read an English version of his biography (released in 2007), or his account of the WW2 German Army (published in 2001), but alas, not available yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 27, 2018, 10:42:20 PM
Now reading Kaiser Wilhelm II - A Life in Power by Christopher Clark.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 27, 2018, 10:55:53 PM
Can't wait to hear the part about how he invented the roll.  ???   Heard he made a lot of dough because of it.  :DD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2018, 01:43:12 PM
 :-[
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 01, 2019, 01:37:26 PM
Just began The End of the German Monarchy: The Decline and Fall of the Hohenzollerns by John van der Kiste.

The Clark book on Wilhelm II was very academic. Good, but dry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 01, 2019, 02:54:10 PM
Currently stepping lively through Dando-Collins' Legions of Rome, a history of every Imperial Roman legion. (Possibly including their pre-Imperial history, probably not including the hundreds of micro-legions of late Byzantium, maybe not including any legions after the fall of Rome. Not sure yet, he hasn't specifically said and I'm not far enough to start the actual histories yet, only the preliminary context stuff.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: CJReich46 on January 01, 2019, 03:57:03 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 01, 2019, 02:54:10 PM
Currently stepping lively through Dando-Collins' Legions of Rome, a history of every Imperial Roman legion. (Possibly including their pre-Imperial history, probably not including the hundreds of micro-legions of late Byzantium, maybe not including any legions after the fall of Rome. Not sure yet, he hasn't specifically said and I'm not far enough to start the actual histories yet, only the preliminary context stuff.)

I remember that book. I found it at Barnes and Noble, and it's amazing. Literally the history of every legion. Their Scutum patterns (they all had different designs). There's a few that were actually disbanded, due to cowardice, rebellion etc. One survived a siege at Ctesiphon for 300 days.

I have the first three volumes of The Accursed Kings.- (Le Rois Maudits)- It was the inspiration for Game of Thrones, except this is historical based. It's about the fall of the Capetian kings of France, the rise of the House of Valois and the Hundred Years War with England.  Figure it would be good flavor for CK II.

But I'm looking for odd stuff, alt histories. etc.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 01, 2019, 05:20:57 PM
I've got that Dando Collins book too. It really scratches that Roman Army itch.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 01, 2019, 06:45:27 PM
^ I've started reading that Rome book a few times, but never have stuck with it long enough to get very far.  Beautiful book, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 01, 2019, 07:54:19 PM
To me it felt more like an encyclopedia than something you sit in front of the fire with. But I still enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 02, 2019, 11:08:55 AM
Just started, "On A Knife's Edge- The Ukraine November 1942- March 1943" by Prit Buttar, rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on January 02, 2019, 12:41:27 PM
Went crazy at my local used bookstore...I try to get out there once every other month, or so. They have a fantastic military history section and regularly get some great books that I would have no way of finding online or from any other source. Anyway, they had a crapload of new titles, including some awesome Osprey books. I picked up a whole series of them on WWII tactics covering armed recon, urban combat, infantry tactics, anti-tank operations, etc. I also picked up some technical books on the Panzer III and Stuka, and the A-4, and really great books on Operation Bagration (in anticipation of Steel Armor II), and the invasions of Poland and Okinawa. Finally, I also got detailed books on amphibious invasions in the Central Pacific and the wartime memoirs and journals of Generaloberst der Panzertruppen Erhard Raus.

We went with my in-laws on Saturday and had to leave before I was finished, so on Monday, I actually left work early and went back to buy more on my own time! Shhhhhhhh...don't tell wifey. She'll kill me. My book collection takes up A LOT of real estate in the house.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 02, 2019, 01:02:31 PM
Sounds like you are channeling Your Inner Gus.

Living newr West Point, our local library has some incredible books at their fundraisers. The last one I was at a few months ago had some incredible books that would normally sell for 40 or 50 dollars on sale for like .99 cents. I almost felt like I was stealing.

I am FINALLY going to start reading some Prit Buttar in the next few weeks...is that Urkaine book his latest?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 02, 2019, 01:25:55 PM
Yes, I believe it is, I had to wait for it to come out in November if I remember correctly. Love his stuff.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 02, 2019, 07:50:14 PM
Only three mixed reviews on Amazon right now for A Knife's Edge, the 1-star review reads as if it were written by a Russian troll:

https://smile.amazon.com/Knifes-Edge-Ukraine-November-1942-March/dp/1472828348/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1546476345&sr=1-4&keywords=Prit+Buttar
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 03, 2019, 11:29:17 AM
I am not that far, though close. Like his other books, he jumps right in the action before the actual time period of the book's title and notes atrocities committed by both sides as well as the 'spin' on the campaign from previous decades by both sides. He lists numerous sources in the Chapter notes from other authors and Russian sources not previously available. As for the errors listed by reviewer #1, Buttar wasn't born in the UK I don't believe and so all of his books I've read have some odd unit listings and place names as English is kind of a second language for him. Also, the maps STILL need to be bigger and more detailed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on January 03, 2019, 12:21:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 02, 2019, 07:50:14 PM
Only three mixed reviews on Amazon right now for A Knife's Edge, the 1-star review reads as if it were written by a Russian troll:

https://smile.amazon.com/Knifes-Edge-Ukraine-November-1942-March/dp/1472828348/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1546476345&sr=1-4&keywords=Prit+Buttar

The Armourer January 2019 review - Editor's choice of the month

Expert on all things Eastern Front related, Prit Buttar's latest effort is subtitled: The Ukraine, November 1942 – March 1943. It basically
takes up the story of the war in the East after Germany's catastrophic defeat at Stalingrad. It was the job of Erich von Manstein to thwart
the Red Army – which itself had suffered huge losses – and rebuild the shattered German forces.
It all starts with analysing just how prepared the German forces were for Operation Barbarossa.
The rapid victories in Western Europe papered over cracks in war materiel production, the quality of
the armour deployed and the lack of reserves.
Buttar is a good writer, so he explains the political manoeuvrings on both Russian and German
sides well, mixing in personal diary entries from those involved in the fighting. The story goes through all
the operations on the massive front as offensive and counter offensive ground down the troops on both
sides. Although it's only part of the story, it's a richly detailed history worth reading for any student of the Eastern Front.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Skwerl on January 03, 2019, 12:38:14 PM
Radix by A A Attanasio.  A great Science Fiction novel that I originally read way back in the 1980s.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 06, 2019, 08:42:50 PM
Having recently finished Hargreaves' Blitzkrieg Unleashed (see my earlier posts for comments), I'm chewing steadily along on (among other things) Robert Forczyk's Case Red: the Collapse of France.

I was hoping it would be an account of the German strategic and tactical perspective, as with several other books I've been collecting for a while, but I'm not sure it's going to be. I haven't gotten far enough to see how much reliance there is on soldier accounts and remembrances once the action starts -- I'm still in the preliminary context chapters.

RF spent years researching and writing the account due to finding a lack of detailed book-length analyzes of "Fall Rot", the invasion of most of France itself, after the breakthrough into northern France through Belgium and the Lowlands, i.e. "Fall Gelb / Case Yellow".) I'm lacking a good German-perspective book on that campaign, too, but I figure I'll get some hints from his sources.

RF's thesis after his research, is that the indispensable factors that led to French defeat in 1940 (i.e. had these factors changed, France would have had a real chance at victory, whereas a change of any other factors while these remained true would have still led to defeat) were a lack of effective air support to the army, and insufficient defensive firepower at the tactical level.

The two main causes leading to these problems were an excessive commitment to the concept of coalition warfare, which in various ways and degrees failed to support France in accordance with French expectations; and a long-running obsession with maintaining France's world image as a Great Power, leading France to build themselves as the strategic leader and material supporter of a military league ringing Germany (a ring which could be knocked out piecemeal or simply defect as with the Sudetenland), while also gearing their military to fight counter-insurgent colonial operations and to protect their sea lanes with a grossly expensive navy (and its prestige-level support bases, such as competing with Britain's Gibraltar by building Mers-el-Kebir.)

Britain (per RF's thesis) failed so hard at supporting France's coalition deterrence strategy (due to various factors including a focus on its own colonial strength) that it's singled out as the most indispensable indirect cause of France's defeat: had they, at least, been prepared to give France the coalition support to fight a serious war against a modern nation on the continent, France might have stood a real chance at winning.


It should be noted that RF thus steps away from blaming France's defeat on the standard doctrine-morale-leadership deficiency arguments we're all familiar with: obviously France wasn't a bunch of cheese-eating surrender-monkeys. ;) Nor were they married so hard to linear combat doctrines that they couldn't handle fluidity; much to the contrary, they had shifted the focus of their army, navy, and air operations to hyper-fluid counter-insurgent ops! -- ops however to be fought somewhere other than France. Their "firepower kills" doctrine was fine, but it wasn't being implemented to protect the homeland.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2019, 01:30:34 PM
^I've been wanting to read that book for a long time, thanks Pratt. Sounds excellent, even if it's not what you were looking for exactly.

I am currently reading German Uniforms, Insignia & Equipment, 1918-1923 by Charles Woolley and The Outlaws by Ernst von Solomon...I am on a Freikorps kick. Didn't know much about them until now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 13, 2019, 12:13:25 AM
I started Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance earlier this week.  I'm about 40% done already.

It's a book I've been wanting to read for a while.  It's...interesting.  I'm not sure I'm exactly enjoying it, but it does have a one more page factor I can't explain.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on January 13, 2019, 08:47:21 AM
Nothing is what I want.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 13, 2019, 09:30:41 AM
Quote from: Toonces on January 13, 2019, 12:13:25 AM
I started Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance earlier this week.  I'm about 40% done already.

It's a book I've been wanting to read for a while.  It's...interesting.  I'm not sure I'm exactly enjoying it, but it does have a one more page factor I can't explain.

I read that book when I was in my early 20's and was just blown away by it, even though much of it was over my head (no Google back then to look up stuff). I read it again after about 15 years, this time a more recent addition which included a new section at the end that the author added years later. Made quite an impact on me since I was not expecting it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 13, 2019, 11:46:09 AM
^ I keep reading that in reviews, which is why I decided to give it a go. 

It's just now what I was expecting.  I knew it was a philosophy book, but still...whatever I had made up in my mind how it would go, I was wrong.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 13, 2019, 12:58:27 PM
Pirsig wrote a follow up book called 'Lila', where the main character ('Phaedrus') from Zen goes on a second 'journey', this time by sailboat, with a new companion ('Lila'), and further developed some of his philosophical ideas about Western values and culture.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 13, 2019, 01:23:20 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 12, 2019, 01:30:34 PM
^I've been wanting to read that book for a long time, thanks Pratt. Sounds excellent, even if it's not what you were looking for exactly.

Still going along, still interesting -- just finished the invasion of Poland, with Britain's and France's moves during this time. I hadn't realized that France did in fact launch an offensive operation up to the West Wall area, the first offensive Allied operation of the War (apparently, happening a few days before the single major Polish counter-offensive), and came within shelling distance of a major arms factory in... Strassbourg, iirc? But then the commander decided to hang there (NOT SHELLING THE FACTORY!) waiting for further orders, while his troops indulged in a little looting.  ::) :P Eventually he was ordered to withdraw, once Warsaw was besieged and Poland seemed confirmed to be lost. Thus dooming Poland to be lost permanently.

I think the BEF is deploying now, too, and is setting up defenses on the coast. The Phony War (or Droll War in French) just started.

Another sign of France's tactical flexibility, instead of a pure commitment to "Methodical War", was that during a major training exercise they dropped airborne infantry unexpectedly on the headquarters of one side to capture it!  :o I'm not sure that counts as the first such formal exercise in history, but it has to be one of the earliest.

(The Soviets are almost surely the historical leader in airborne ops training -- something which this book naturally doesn't cover: Stalin was so hard in favor of it that he instituted informal parachute training at the level of public entertainment for years before the war! He didn't only have airborne divisions by summer of 41, he had whole airborne corps. Plural corps. As in, at least one whole airborne army in effect. What happened to this massive collection of highly trained elite airborne troops, is a whole other story. ;) Suffice to say that they rarely got deployed according to their intended training, the main events being a couple of airborne drops during one of the Soviet offensives in the Ukraine of 43 iirc.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2019, 02:03:02 PM
Is there detail given on the Polish counter offensive?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on January 13, 2019, 03:41:27 PM
Reading Beevor's Stalingrad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 13, 2019, 05:30:02 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 13, 2019, 02:03:02 PM
Is there detail given on the Polish counter offensive?

Not much, he just mentions it in passing (and I don't think when talking about the French offensive either). He correctly states that the Polish army managed to hit hard against the Wehrmacht at first, but then got crushed in the counter-riposte.

The best detail I've seen on the Polish counter-offensive (so far) is in a chapter of Hargreaves' Blitzkrieg Unleashed, which I previously talked about upthread although not about the Polish counter-offensive. Despite some peculiar shortsights (nothing about the Wisnia heroic stand, and not much about the Mlowa forts, for example), it's by far the best book I've read on Fall Weiss and the strategic and political situations leading up to it.

I can do a summary of the Polish counter-offensive tomorrow if you'd like.  O:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2019, 05:34:12 PM
Yes please. By 0430 EST.

:)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 09:25:31 AM
Well, I might get it done by 1630 CST!

The account takes up much of the content of chapter 6, "Much Blood Has Flowed". Summarizing will be hard, but I'll try.

The Polish commander was Taduesz Kutrzeba, former chief of staff during WW1, who had been agitating for a counter-offensive since the war started. An intelligent, decent commander, liked and highly regarded by all, his main weakness was being a textbook theoretician who lacked the ability to estimate tactical conditions. His own commander, the current Polish chief of staff, refused to approve the counter-offensive until signed off by the commander in chief, Smigly-Rydz -- who had fled for Romania already at the start of the war. Seriously bad communication problems hampered the attempt, delaying it until September 10th, although the first fighting of the offensive started on the 9th thanks to an impetuous local commander.

Kutrzeba had the mostly untouched Army of Poznan, bypassed in the Corridor, reinforced by the remnants of the Army of Pomorze which had been slaughtered by Guderian's famous 19th Corps on its dash eastward across the Corridor into East Prussia (aiming for the deep encirclement around the Mlowa fortifications, though it would be held up 3 days by the famous 40:1 defense of Wisnia.) TK thought the Army of Lodz would provide blocking security to the south, but didn't realize it had been too mangled to offer more than randomly effective defense.

TK's plan was to lunge to recover Lodz, relieve the Pomorze Army which could withdraw toward Warsaw, and so also rescue the Lodz Army which had been pushed south.

TK's communications lacked contact with Polish Intelligence, so he was operating on suppositions and a hastily scrawled map. He lacked practically any airpower, and local recon had been indifferent at best. He would be fighting with somewhat more than 60 light tanks and armored cars combined. And his opponents would know exactly where all their own forces were deployed, and would understand their own conditions.

On the other hand, TK had no less than seven fresh infantry divisions and two cavalry brigades, somewhere around 150K troops, outnumbering the Germans 3 to 1, and 2 to 1 in artillery, plus at least one more solid division of the Army of Lodz at his disposal, not counting remnants of the withdrawing Pomorze. Moreover, while the Germans had excellent information about their own dispositions, they had only a general idea of the size of the Polish opposition, and no information on deployments or plans -- a lack of Polish communications in this case kept the Germans in the dark about what was coming.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 09:48:38 AM
The operation would be concentrated on the Bzura River, which TK's forces would have to swim across at first until bridges could be secured. On the defense would be the German 30th Infantry mainly (commanded by Kurt von Briesen at the Piatek front-line), plus the 24th Inf, and 1st Panzer Div nearby within range of reinforcement. (The next nearest force was 4th Panzer, already being held up at the gates of Warsaw.)

The initial Polish infantry push across the Bzura at dawn on the 9th caught everyone by surprise (including TK, who had been planning for the 10th!), quickly crumbling through a dozen miles of KvB's lines. By midday artillery was already falling on German positions on the outskirts of Piatek, and the population of the historic small town of Leczyca (20 miles NE of Lodz) rose up to try to help overthrow the German 46th Infantry Regiment (of the 30th Division), heedless of Polish artillery and the fires that soon engulfed the place. The 46th defended beyond the last round as horse-drawn ammo supply struggled past Polish lines, but by midnight only the command staff effectively remained, radioing to vonB "Situation hopeless." The normally unflappable 30th Infantry General radioed his report that night, "Situation deadly serious. Request urgent support."

An entire Polish division crossed the Bzura during the night, and started a full assault upon Piatek at dawn of the 10th (the original op d-day), plastering the city with arty. A shell landed upon the German 30th Divisional command, shattering KvB's right arm. By mid-day the 30th Division had routed south back toward Lodz, being shadowed by a Polish arty spotting plane.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 09:57:20 AM
KvB's own father had died on the Vistula during WW1, only 40 miles away, and he had no intention of following after. KvB regarded the Poles as mauraders of his homeland in Pomerania, where 20 years previously he had directed defense against their invasion. He was adored by his men, whose officers swore by him, and he seemed to know every recruit of the 30th personally. Under his command, the 30th had been arguably the finest infantry division in the German army. And now it was ruined in one day.

According to the divisional history, he stepped from a car or truck onto the road with his torn uniform and arm, and personally rallied the fleeing 30th remnants into a counter-attack. But only briefly; they had to settle into a defense against the continuing surge of the Polish attack across the Bzura and the marshes, which did at least favor the defender.

Now the Polish communication crisis hit hard, as they lacked radios, phone lines, or enough air spotters, to effectively direct artillery upon defenders in the marsh. And while more Polish crossed the Bzura all the time at will, the brave Polish troops, eager for payback, threw away their pre-war training and rather than focusing on German lines per se tried to rescue and retake particular towns and villages, without waiting for local artillery support to arrive. The Polish retained the momentum for now, but the attack was (somewhat literally!) bogging down by the end of the 10th.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 14, 2019, 09:59:52 AM
 :clap:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 14, 2019, 12:21:03 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 09:25:31 AM
Well, I might get it done by 1630 CST!

The account takes up much of the content of chapter 6, "Much Blood Has Flowed". Summarizing will be hard, but I'll try.


:bd: Great Stuff Jason.  Putting this on my reading list!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 14, 2019, 12:39:42 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 06, 2019, 08:42:50 PM
Having recently finished Hargreaves' Blitzkrieg Unleashed (see my earlier posts for comments), I'm chewing steadily along on (among other things) Robert Forczyk's Case Red: the Collapse of France.

Another one to read for me. 

The subject of France's defeat in WWII has always fascinated...  I agree the French military fought too hard to give Bart Simpson much traction. I also think that Petain's political deal with the devil was in the end an act of lost nerves and treason. But I really don't know enough of the details...so looking for good reads on the subject.

Earnest May's "Strange Victory" has been on my list for a while. I will add "Case Red".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 12:41:21 PM
AzTank: RF seems to like Strange Victory more than the much more classic Strange Defeat (written shortly after the events), for what it's worth.


Although TK understood by the morning of the 11th that his attack was diffusing too far to keep up its momentum, as far as the troops were concerned the attack was continuing to be a smashing success! They had achieved total operational surprise (partly thanks to lunging a day early), catching their opponents unprepared for defense; they had practically destroyed the vaunted 30th Infantry division; most of their troops were over the river safely now; and many towns and villages in the region had been freed from Nazi occupation.

But now, the undisciplined ferocity and courage of the Polish avengers were starting to come up against remnants of the 30th ID who had shifted to fully defensive warfare. While still relatively green, the 30th had been strenuously trained, with clear understanding for why their training was necessary; and the men who remained were necessarily those with enough courage and skill to survive and stand against the storm of vengeance.

Unskilled human-wave bravery now would be crashing against professional defensive bravery, as the remnants of the 30th ID collected supplies into small fortified areas, prepared to repel the Polish with superior firepower. Command and control having broken down for the Polish, the local commanders simply saw the hated invaders still holding positions, and tunnel-visioned onto rooting them out at all costs.

At Piatek, the Poles were prevailing at hand-to-hand fighting, but the scattered remaining companies still held their ground. Being ordered to retreat, some company commanders realized any retreat would be through Polish encirclements and resolved to stay until rescued. One German survivor, Christian Kinder, reported this anecdote later:

QuoteA platoon leader drew the Hauptmann's attention to the Poles, who were trying to establish themselves in the company's rear. Each man could see individual soldiers with their triangular caps. The Hauptmann answered him curtly: "Who here sees any Poles in our rear? I cannot see any! If you don't believe me, then go there for yourself and find out!"

In Lodz, a city of 700,000, the joyous inhabitants were already talking about "the miracle of the Vistula". (The Polish army had attacked from the land between the two rivers.) Technically Lodz was still held by the German 13th Corps, with the Polish Lodz army still lodged to the south, but corps commander Freiherr (Baron) von Weichs did not even know that apart from his staff the only German troops remaining in the city were just 40 field police and clerks. Most of his forces had been marching on Warsaw when TK attacked, and now they were strung out northeast of the city. Eight Army HQ, with its chief of staff General Hans Felber, meanwhile was stuck in its trucks on the outskirts of Zgierz four miles away, with Polish forces hitting hard only a dozen miles away. Felber recalled later, "There was bad news followed by more bad news, raining down on us like blows from a club... extremely black."

But the 8th Army's CnC Johannes Blaskowitz stood firm. Hailing from an insignificant village of East Prussia near the Lithuanian and Polish border, he hated what the Versailles Treaty had done to Prussia, but also hated the brutality of the Nazi regime, and had boasted of overthrowing them if they ever took power. Nazism jarred with his religious beliefs, too, as a devout Christian, who read a passage from the New Testament every night in peace or in war. Supposedly lacking ability, due to timidness during pre-war maneuvers, he had still been assigned command of the 8th Army, and now Felber marveled as his Commander took "tough decisions" to block the Polish thrust.

KvB of the 30th Infantry held his remaining defensive points throughout the day, but as night fell even the holdouts realized the Polish were forcing them to burn through too much ammunition and no relief would be arriving on the 11th. Withdrawals started after dark, and as expected they fell into Polish ambushes. By dawn Monday, only scattered companies remained, navigating by stars and local landmarks across fields.

But by dawn, Blaskovitz had at last positioned a coherent German line for the 30th to retreat through, "presenting the enemy with a united front," (he wrote in his diary.) "The crisis has passed."

General Tadeusz Kutrzeba meanwhile issued the order of the day: "FORWARD TO TOTAL VICTORY!!"

{cue the Winged Hussar theme}  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 01:00:09 PM
The thin line where the destroyed 30th ID retreated, held throughout the 11th, despite massive Polish pressure, bolstered by the survivors of the onslaught.

6 miles north of Zgierz, on the heights of Celestynow, the Polish 17th bludgeoned 900 men out of the German 17th. But despite heroic efforts the 17th couldn't uproot the 17th.

Northwest of Lodz, a Panzer Regiment, the 23rd, finally rumbled to the rescue near the village of Orla -- and ran straight into a murderous anti-tank ambush. One company commander recalled:

QuoteA Polish anti-tank gun, situated behind the corner of a house, was particularly dangerous. Even though one crew after another was killed as a result of our panzer's machine-gun fire, again and again Polish soldiers jumped out of the house to man the gun. The last man to shoot -- and die -- at the gun was a Polish Lieutenant.

The panzers withdrew after a day of fruitless losses.

(I will note here that around 90 percent of the armor invading Poland didn't even have proper cannons, at most rapid-fire 20mm in the PzIIs. Most were basically tracked go-carts with a machine-gun turret. ;) By the time of France's invasion, matters had significantly improved: now only 60% of the tanks lacked a true cannon!)

The thin German line bent and buckled, and the arrival of their first available relief armor got butchered like sheep by the Polish avengers -- but the line did hold.

The Polish heroes had struck forward with all their might. But they had lost total victory.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 01:23:41 PM
On the 12th, TK tried again, striking southwest this time to seize the heights east of Lodz. But once again the attack bogged down, this time near Glowno.

And now the German 3rd Corps was arriving from his own northwest, cutting into the rear of Pomorze's Army, which had been reconstituting and resurging as his reserves, after his daring rescue of their withdrawal.

TK did not believe that continued pushing south would create the breakthrough he needed -- or he lacked the ability (and certainly the field communications) to coordinate a concentration of his forces in a narrow thrust for a decisive Schwerpunkt of his own. His only hope now, he believed, was to withdraw his Armies to the defense of Warsaw while Pozan Army still retained substantial fighting strength. But this would mean funneling them through a corridor barely 10 miles wide, along a road bordered by a forest infiltrated by German invaders.

At 10am on Wednesday Sept 13th, Adolf Hitler stepped down out of a Ju 52 at an airfield west of Lodz, to see the Polish counter-attack for himself. 8th Army General Blaskowitz himself escorted the Nazi Fuhrer around (not through) the city of Lodz to his headquarters on the eastern outskirts.

Felber, chief of staff for the 8th Army, gave a concise account of the Army's recent exploits. Hitler nodded, evidently satisfied by the efforts; and as they departed his own chief of staff, Keitel, warmly grasped Felber's hands, declaring, "Your Army has had the most difficult task up to now. We all know that."

Hitler toured the HQs for 10th ID, 17th ID, next 13th Corps, and finally to a rundown schoolhouse serving as the last redoubt for 30th Infantry's staff. Hitler turned to his Army liaison officer von Vormann after receiving von Briesen's report -- who had tried not to call attention to his wounded arm -- and near tears declared, "That is how I imagined a Prussian general to be when I was a child!"

Hitler smoldered about Blaskowitz however, on the return trip to the airfield: "He didn't seem to have realized his mission!" Yet in awe of von Briesen, he resolved, "I'm looking for hard men. I need fanatical National Socialists. If their ability is somewhat lacking, put a trained General Staff officer at their side. See to it that such officers are brought forward."

Felber finally relaxed, back at 8th HQ. He had thought the Poles would attack again that day -- and had worried that this time, they would surely succeed in punching through, perhaps overrunning the Fuhrer himself!


But the Poles were regrouping on the 13th, and on the 14th -- or as much as they could, with the Luftwaffe now having arrived for operational support, pouncing from above. Felber wrote admiringly in his diary of his unknown Polish opponent, "That chap, the commander facing us, has an amazing brain! He must be their best and youngest leader. He defends himself with the utmost bravura."

The 56-year-old Kutrzeba did not regard himself, or his situation, so warmly. "By Sept 14th," he wrote, "we were encircled and the noose around our necks would tighten day by day, if Warsaw did not come to our aid." Which, he knew, they simply could not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 14, 2019, 01:24:07 PM
CnC B. Johannes Blaskowitz??
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 01:27:20 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 14, 2019, 01:24:07 PM
CnC B. Johannes Blaskowitz??

That's him, 8th Army commander. Hitler didn't like him much, and the feeling was more than mutual.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 02:15:32 PM
September 15th. The decisive battle of the Polish offensive.

Kutrzeba rallied his troops:

QuoteYou have already destroyed two German divisions [the 17th and 30th infantry][...] Now a fresh victory awaits you. We know that we are stronger than the enemy facing us. Summon your strength, smash the Prussian hordes with a single, powerful blow and open the road to Warsaw. Full of belief and determination, throw yourselves into battle. Glory awaits you! Forward for the glory of the Fatherland, avenge the ravaging of our homeland!

General Knoll-Kownacki also assured the men of his ad hoc group that they were attacking a weaker enemy, and it would be disgraceful if they could not break such a foe. "Once again I stress with the greatest emphasis that our attack must have a desperado character!"

But they weren't striking now to destroy this arm reaching against Warsaw. They were only striking to escape to Warsaw.

And the Germans had also been regrouping -- for a counter attack to destroy the Polish armies on the Bzura, partly by crossing the Bzura themselves in daring raids. The 17th Infantry Division, despite Polish hopes, had only been punched hard, not destroyed, and its artillery played a key role. But the true leaders of the attack were the 1st Panzer Division, which had arrived the day before and had maneuvered toward the Bzura since midnight, crossing over two bridges the German engineers had thrown up overnight. The SS Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler had also arrived to drive a stake through the heart of the Polish resistance. "The Poles attack with great determination and prove yet again that they know how to die!" Hauptsturmfuhrer Kurt Meyer complimented them. "The finest Polish blood mixes with the waters of the river. The Poles' losses are awful."

Wave after wave of Stuka bombers dove through the heavy rainclouds upon the masses of Polish troops, so cleverly and skillfully using the cloud cover that some anti-aircraft posts themselves were destroyed without even firing a shot, despite loaded barrels.

The 17th Division proved its survival against the Polish 17th, by crossing a wooden footbridge under heavy machine gun fire, and then fixing bayonets -- proving also that Germans could overrun positions hand to hand.

Things didn't go entirely the Germans' way. 19th Infantry was held up behind the 1st Panzer; and Polish guns very nearly slew their generals along with visiting 10th Army Commander Walther von Reichenau! -- who, unfazed by the splintering death outside, continued to hand out orders for reconsolidating the thrust.

1st Panzer's Kielmansegg would go on to be the final living Panzer General, leading the post-war Bundeswehr as its first commander, and eventually becoming NATO Supreme Commander of Central European forces, living into the early 21st century.


1st Panzer had driven a knife into the belly of the Polish attackers on Sept 16th. On the 17th, they would twist it. As with much of the Polish campaign, the Wehrmacht demonstrated its true strength lay in the discipline of combined operations. Kielmansegg would later write of the captured Poles on the banks of the Bzura, that even Polish officers were visibly shaken and repeated expressed the opinion that no human being could endure panzers and stukas. "The captured Poles are driven half-insane by fear and throw themselves to the ground -- even in captivity! -- whenever there is one sound of an aircraft engine from somewhere."

The men of the 8th Machine-Gun Battalion cannot even take time to properly set up and fight during their march, due to Polish soldiers rushing out to surrender as the Luftwaffe drops bombs only a few hundred yards ahead of the Battalion's advance, seeming spawned by the gathering storm overhead.

By mid-morning on Sept 17th, General Kutrzeba had crossed back to the right bank of the Bzura -- into the path of the combined assault. "Hell on earth had begun," he later wrote. Abandoning their vehicles, he and his two companions eventually fell exhausted into a cluster of trees, unable to stir for fear, so threatened by death from the Luftwaffe.

The woods and copses of the Kampinos became "the grave of the Army of Poznan," TK recalled. But here and there the Poles managed to wilt German pockets piecemeal, including the 4th Panzer Division down to its headquarters staff.

TK was eventually led by Polish woodsmen to relative safety, but most of his men did not escape the hell of the Bzura -- and most of those who did found their fate soon beyond it. Elements of the German 1st Light Division were drawn up on the edge of Wolka Weglowa, half a dozen miles from the heart of Warsaw, when squadrons of Polish cavalry, fleeing the pocket, came galloping out of the broken terrain and into the German armor -- to be massacred. A Polish regimental commander surrendered to the 1st Light's commanding officer, offering Major General von Loeper his sword. "Keep your sword," Loeper told him. "The fortunes of war have gone against you."

The battle petered out on Sept 19th. 4th Panzer Division alone, surviving after its own desperate defense, took 20K prisoners.

In Lodz, Blaskowitz printed and handed out the order of the day:

QuoteThe ten-day battle on the Bzura has been waged victoriously. An enemy who was cleverly led and who fought with determination has surrendered.

You have grappled the enemy forces left west of the Vistula. You have withstood and thwarted all attempts to break through until fresh forces were brought up. You tightened the ring of encirclement as planned. A victory of decisive importance for the war is yours!

With just pride, you can take the lion's share of this great battle of encirclement. With justification you bear the number of the famous Eighth Army of Tannenberg!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 14, 2019, 02:20:22 PM
The Poles had a general named, 'Rommel' too. I learned that playing Decisive Campaigns.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 02:29:16 PM
In the author's estimation -- and by contemporary accounts -- the riposte of the Polish counter-attack by the 8th Army was the battle of the Polish campaign.

At least 17K Poles died; another 180 thousand captured, at least 300 field guns, 3500 horses, thirty tanks, more than 4000 trucks (much needed by the Wehrmacht's motorization projects), and 180 trains, all captured. The OKW report to Hitler boasted that the captives lined up man to man would stretch for 125 miles, and for 500 if the loot were added in.

The German 30th Infantry suffered heaviest on the invading side: 29 officers and 766 men, with another 794 wounded. Several hundred more had been marched around by Polish captors for days on end, without clear aim, covering upwards of 30 miles a day on thin cabbage soup and occasionally some bread.

At its height, the Battle of the Bzura had drawn in nearly half a million men, including nine Polish infantry divisions and nineteen German divisions, five of those armored and light formations. Eighth Army's operations officer Erwin Jaenecke conceded that "the miracle on the Vistula which the Poles so ardently longed for was tangibly close." Had the Poles been able to coordinate their efforts in striking at a decisive point, they would have sliced through 8th Army's flank and into the rear of the 10th. "The Poles," he commented, "did not know how to make use of their moment and so met their fate."

General Tadeusz Kutrzeba could only agree.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 14, 2019, 02:33:07 PM
My entire reality is being slashed and burned by this thread.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 02:34:58 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on January 14, 2019, 02:20:22 PM
The Poles had a general named, 'Rommel' too. I learned that playing Decisive Campaigns.

Yep! -- Juliusz Rommel, commandant of the city of Warsaw. TK reported to him after the battle, when he was smuggled into the city on the 20th. Rommel later wrote that standing before him was a man who was "utterly wrecked and who had lost self-control."

Rommel said nothing, encouraging his guest to speak.

"I have lost a battle," was all Kutrzeba could bluntly say.


Later captured, they spent the remainder of the war in German prison camps. Rommel returned to Poland to bask briefly as a war hero in 1945, before quietly retiring to write his memoirs. TK joined Polish exiles in London, wrote his memoirs, and nurtured the first systematic research of Fall Weiss -- dying in January 1947 before he could return to his homeland at last.

His work served as a major primary source for Hargreaves book.

:notworthy:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 14, 2019, 03:21:04 PM
Poor Gus. Just emerged from the Matrix and still adjusting. Wait till he finds out there's a dongle-port in the back of his head.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 14, 2019, 03:25:38 PM
I can't handle your truth.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 04:25:43 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on January 14, 2019, 03:21:04 PM
Poor Gus. Just emerged from the Matrix and still adjusting. Wait till he finds out there's a dongle-port in the back of his head.

You also get that plugging into the Avatars, apparently...  :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 14, 2019, 06:07:04 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 02:34:58 PM

His work served as a major primary source for Hargreaves book.


Do you know if this is available on line or in book form?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 07:11:57 PM
It is available in both a nice printed edition (which I got for my brother as part of his Christmas WW2 west-front German memoir package), and in a good kindle edition (which I have for myself). Kindle is significantly less expensive, and you don't really lose anything especially with new readers. (My old original reader might have some problems.) Endnote functionality is better certainly on newer readers. I don't recall if the printed edition has footnotes instead (which are easier than endnotes for reference.) Some of the notes include extra information so they're worth checking at the end of a chapter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 07:13:55 PM
Amazon link to the hardback -- I got the paperback for bro, quality was high for a softback.  O0

https://smile.amazon.com/BLITZKRIEG-UNLEASHED-German-Invasion-Poland/dp/1844157776


I gave a summary of about 50 pages, I think? It's a thick book. Despite his odd oversights, it's a fine account of the personal experiences of the operation with plenty of overall strategic and political context.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 14, 2019, 08:07:36 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 01:27:20 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 14, 2019, 01:24:07 PM
CnC B. Johannes Blaskowitz??

That's him, 8th Army commander. Hitler didn't like him much, and the feeling was more than mutual.

Maybe a distant relative of B.J. Blaskowitz: grandfather of Billy Blaze and great-grandfather of Doomguy?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 14, 2019, 08:12:45 PM
Didn't Commander Keen grow up to be the Doom guy?

But yes, both characters were apparently named after the German 8th Army commander, sort of.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on January 14, 2019, 08:20:22 PM
Billy Blaze from the Commander Keen series was Doomguy's dad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 14, 2019, 10:36:21 PM
*head explodes*
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 14, 2019, 10:49:46 PM
If I ever get another dog, I'm going to name it, 'Blaskowitz'. Just cause it's fun to say.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 20, 2019, 09:53:48 PM
I finished Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance today.  I really enjoyed about the first half of the book.  The discussion on philosophy was largely new to me and I liked how the author used the motorcycle trip as a vehicle to talk about it.  However, I really did not enjoy the last half of the book (after the other couple leaves, if you've read it) and the long discussion about Phaedrus that occupied the last third.  I hated the ending.

I dunno, I wasn't sure what to expect when I started to book, so perhaps that was a bad thing.  I never had a clear idea of where the story was going until the last third, and once I did, I felt sort of disappointed in the direction the book went. 

Overall I rate it 2.5/5.  It was interesting, but I wouldn't say that it's a book you need to read.  I don't intend to read it again this lifetime, and I don't intend to read the sequel.  It turns out that I kind of just don't care what happens to the author as related in the next book.

So, I re-booted Don Quixote with the intention of finally finishing it.  Man, is it a long book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 20, 2019, 09:57:53 PM
I'm thinking, after Don Quixote, of starting Winston Churchill's multi-volume account of WW2.  I already have the first volume, The Gathering Storm, that I picked up somewhere a few years ago. 

Has anybody read it and have an opinion on Churchill the author?

I'm also slowly working my way through Darwin's Voyage of the Beagle as sort of a palette cleanser when I don't want to get into anything too challenging.  It's one of the Great Books so I feel it's a worthy book to fill in some of my down time, and it doesn't seem to suffer if I read it in small pieces over a really long period of time.  I thank Airboy for turning me onto the very affordable collection of books, of which Voyage is part, on Kindle.  Thanks Airboy!    :hug:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 20, 2019, 10:44:22 PM
Currently reading Ferdinand and Elefant Tank Destroyers by Thomas Anderson and A Frozen Hell by Will Trotter!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 21, 2019, 08:52:29 AM
Quote from: Toonces on January 20, 2019, 09:57:53 PM
I'm thinking, after Don Quixote, of starting Winston Churchill's multi-volume account of WW2.  I already have the first volume, The Gathering Storm, that I picked up somewhere a few years ago. 

Has anybody read it and have an opinion on Churchill the author?

I want to read that series, too; but I was not overly impressed with the recent two-film adaptation starring Michael Gambon Albert Finney. How does someone make Churchill, in WW2's buildup and outbreak no less, as dull as dishwater!? -- apparently by filming him flopping around his house in the nude, like the Grinch.  :hide:

(Around the same time I watched Gambon playing Lyndon B. Johnson during his presidency; in my head the two garrulous twerps merged together.  :buck2: )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on January 30, 2019, 07:01:44 AM
Churchill is a great read.  Coming out relatively soon after the war, and with his eyewitness to history, it is involving and carries you on.  Sometimes he can really surprise you with events.
However, he did rewrite some things to make himself look better.  And, many things, like Enigma, were not revealed, so he does not discuss them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 06, 2019, 10:01:13 PM
Now reading Panther by Thomas Anderson and Nomonhan 1939 by Stuart Goodman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 09, 2019, 12:46:47 AM
Whew!

I finally finished Don Quixote.  I bought the physical book last April when we were out here looking at houses; finished it on Kindle with a different, easier translation in the house we bought.  That is one seriously long book.

I enjoyed it for the most part although I didn't like the end at all. 

I don't see me reading it a second time!  Honestly the last third was a bit of a chore, but I simply wouldn't give up after all that sunk cost getting to that point.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 18, 2019, 02:32:45 PM
Currently reading Iron Dragoons (#1) by Richard Fox which is quite good (going to pick up the first Ember War and the first Strike Marines too) and the Battletech Succession Wars Technical Readout.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 18, 2019, 04:11:27 PM
Puttering along with Case Red (back and forth with several other things), and I can report that at the 50% mark (including whatever end material) Dunkirk was just evacuated. So despite my concern, the author did include a solid Fall Gelb account after all.  O0

What he doesn't provide, which I bought the book hoping for (but after about 10% in was worried he wouldn't), is an eyewitness source account mixed in with the AAR (so to speak), as with other books I've been collecting about the Western Front campaigns.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 18, 2019, 08:46:38 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 18, 2019, 02:32:45 PM
Currently reading Iron Dragoons (#1) by Richard Fox which is quite good (going to pick up the first Ember War and the first Strike Marines too) and the Battletech Succession Wars Technical Readout.

:smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 18, 2019, 09:10:16 PM
^You like the Battletech, eh? I did not know this.

Can you recommend any good (full color) books, similar to the one listed above? I'm a little bummed it's only in black and white.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 19, 2019, 06:54:38 PM
Most of what I saw from FASA has great covers in color, but, nothing inside the books.  Especially not the Technical Readouts.  There was a series of game supplements that covered the Houses and Clans that might have had some good color illustrations inside.  I just can't get to any of my books as they are in storage right now.  The first Battletech sourcebook I got was the 3025 Technical Readout.  So, I am more of a pre Clans guy than Kerensky Returning.  The pilot blurbs for each mech added soooooooooooooo much flavor and information.  Fired my imagination UP!!!  Love me some Battletech!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 19, 2019, 09:25:42 PM
^After that post I really hope you have the new game. I am just a couple of hours in, know next to nothing about Battletech, and am falling in love with it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 19, 2019, 10:46:04 PM
I do not.  And I suspect my machine might be on the low end of required specs, if it qualifies at all.  But, I have a feeling I could disappear into that game if it's all I've read about it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 20, 2019, 09:36:56 AM
It's very solid. My one complaint is the slow loading time/general sluggishness of the game under the hood...I can feel the game churning along. Other than that, I love it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 20, 2019, 07:22:29 PM
Once they pry Windows 7 from my cold, angry, hands, I will upgrade to a machine that can handle it.  Then it's just a matter of time before I get me some Mech goodness!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 20, 2019, 08:47:34 PM
I've been working my way through Matterhorn

Man alive, what a fucking clusterfuck Vietnam was, if this book is even remotely representative of real life.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 21, 2019, 07:08:45 AM
Reading American Gods now, thanks to a co-worker's recommendation.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 21, 2019, 07:52:00 AM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on February 21, 2019, 07:08:45 AM
Reading American Gods now, thanks to a co-worker's recommendation.


Oh sure... never mind our recommendations...  ::)



(J/K)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2019, 08:51:16 AM
BC used to love us.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 21, 2019, 10:56:16 AM
I NEVER listen to co-workers. If they work with me, there has to be something very wrong with their judgement skills.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2019, 01:01:49 PM
What?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tpek on February 21, 2019, 04:46:06 PM
Late to this thread, but I'm currently reading Sapkowski's The Last Wish, the first book in the series upon which the Witcher video games are based.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2019, 06:37:31 PM
^Are you liking it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 21, 2019, 09:05:50 PM
^ I've read a couple of The Witcher books.  I really enjoyed them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 21, 2019, 11:05:17 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 18, 2019, 09:10:16 PM
^You like the Battletech, eh? I did not know this.

Can you recommend any good (full color) books, similar to the one listed above? I'm a little bummed it's only in black and white.

Was looking through my bookmarks when I stumbled across this little gem: http://www.sarna.net/wiki/Main_Page  Think you might like it ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 22, 2019, 08:30:05 AM
Holy moly!! http://www.sarna.net/news/mechcommander-gold-darkest-hours-gets-4-0-release/

I have that disc in its case sitting less than three feet from my gaming chair at the house! (And MechCom2, too.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2019, 01:31:47 PM
Thanks Dawg...looking through the book pages of that link now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 22, 2019, 02:02:14 PM
Yeah you guys backed up what my co-workers recommended over at The Other Site. I appreciate all the help. It's really rare that I pick up an actual tree-flesh book.

I appreciate you most of all Gus.  :smitten:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2019, 02:37:15 PM
Liar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 22, 2019, 03:13:37 PM
Ok
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2019, 06:37:42 PM
Show me don't tell me!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on February 28, 2019, 06:59:11 AM
 :hug: :hug: :hug:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 28, 2019, 07:36:52 AM
I can't hug this early in the morning in my weakened state.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 28, 2019, 09:03:06 AM
I'm reading House of Assassins by Larry Correia. I like his other series (Monster Hunter International; Grim Noire) much better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 28, 2019, 10:35:25 AM
Now reading The Ember War (Book 1) by Richard Fox, just finished Iron Dragoons (Book 1). Terra Nova (1) next and if I have not satiated my sci fi bug, The Dotari Salvation - Terran Strike Marines. Richard Fox has become my go to sci fi writer, replacing Marko Kloos and his Terms of Enlistment series. I just enjoy Fox's writing more.

With some sci fi out of the way, I think I will read Cornwell's Winter King next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 28, 2019, 08:38:21 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 28, 2019, 10:35:25 AM
Now reading The Ember War (Book 1) by Richard Fox, just finished Iron Dragoons (Book 1). Terra Nova (1) next and if I have not satiated my sci fi bug, The Dotari Salvation - Terran Strike Marines. Richard Fox has become my go to sci fi writer, replacing Marko Kloos and his Terms of Enlistment series. I just enjoy Fox's writing more.

With some sci fi out of the way, I think I will read Cornwell's Winter King next.

Three things got me to buy this.
1 won a dragon award
2 your recommendation
3 first review was  a 1 star from a SJW ignorant of history
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 28, 2019, 08:44:56 PM
The author is also a USMA grad and Iraq War vet. But your 3rd point may be the most important, still 😎

You may also like Marko Kloos if you haven't read his books yet, but I enjoy Fox's books more. It's also interesting to see units, troops and events mentioned in one book appear in another.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 02, 2019, 02:09:40 PM
I was fortunate enough to get to spend an extended amount of time in airliners the last week.

I finished Matterhorn.  I mostly liked it, although the end was a bummer.

I also finished The Hobbit.  I concur fully that it reads like a children's book.  I can't say I particularly enjoyed it, but I felt obligated to finish it so I can say that, yes, I've read The Hobbit.  It's like a children's book.

Not sure where I'm going to next.  I started Massie's Dreadnought, but it isn't grabbing me at all.  I also started re-reading a Clive Cussler book Raise the Titanic that I first read when I was much younger, but I think I might have simply outgrown Cussler's writing style.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 02, 2019, 09:17:11 PM
Dreadnought is not grabbing you?? That's a travesty.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 03, 2019, 12:22:37 AM
Dreadnought was stellar!  Even I enjoyed it.

And The Hobbit was written as a children's story.  however, I read it in 3rd Grade, so, it will always have a special place in my heart.  And as the entree into LotR, it holds a double special place in my heart.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 03, 2019, 01:44:17 AM
 :'(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 03, 2019, 12:24:22 PM
At what point does Dreadnought start getting good?  I'm still in the this guy married that woman, this one loved England, this one loved Germany part.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on March 03, 2019, 12:45:27 PM
Quote from: Toonces on March 03, 2019, 12:24:22 PM
At what point does Dreadnought start getting good?  I'm still in the this guy married that woman, this one loved England, this one loved Germany part.

That's the nature of Massie books. Think of what you're reading right now as setting the stage for the story, introducing the characters and immersing you in the time period. Once he's done with that, you have a much better understanding of all the players and their motivations when you get to the real meat of the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 03, 2019, 04:22:16 PM
Dude if you don't like the details then why bother?

I can't even look at you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 07, 2019, 08:26:33 PM
About to begin Ararat by Christopher Golden.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 05, 2019, 12:29:09 PM
Now reading Greek Fire, Poison Arrows & Scorpion Bombs - Biological and Chemical Warfare in the Ancient World by Adrienne Mayor. Great book, have read almost 100 pages since just yesterday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on May 05, 2019, 01:30:03 PM
The Strange Death of Europe by Douglas Murray.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 25, 2019, 05:24:32 PM
Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield. 100 pages in, great book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 25, 2019, 10:34:44 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 25, 2019, 05:24:32 PM
Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield. 100 pages in, great book.

Probably my favorite novel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: CJReich46 on May 25, 2019, 11:05:15 PM
[i The Book of The New Sun[/i] by Gene Wolfe . I have the first part Shadow of the Torturer and Claw of the Conciliator

Heard its really interesting with the world building etc. Just in the 2nd chapter. Taking my time with this.


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 26, 2019, 11:44:32 AM
I can see why AB.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 26, 2019, 12:42:57 PM
Oh man, Gates of Fire is absolutely fantastic.  His other novel is also outstanding.  I give my strongest, heartiest endorsement!   :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 26, 2019, 10:25:29 PM
What's the title of his other book?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 26, 2019, 11:14:19 PM
I thought it was Tides of War, but looking through some of his other books, the one I was thinking of is The Afghan Campaign.  I think I read Tides of War, but now I'm not sure.  The Afghan Campaign was great.

2,300 years ago an unbeaten army of the West invaded the homeland of a fierce Eastern tribal foe. This is one soldier's story . . .

The bestselling novelist of ancient warfare returns with a riveting historical novel that re-creates Alexander the Great's invasion of the Afghan kingdoms in 330 b.c.
In a story that might have been ripped from today's combat dispatches, Steven Pressfield brings to life the confrontation between an invading Western army and fierce Eastern warriors determined at all costs to defend their homeland. Narrated by an infantryman in Alexander's army, The Afghan Campaign explores the challenges, both military and moral, that Alexander and his soldiers face as they embark on a new type of war and are forced to adapt to the methods of a ruthless foe that employs terror and insurgent tactics. An edge-of-your-seat adventure, The Afghan Campaign once again demonstrates Pressfield's profound understanding of the hopes and desperation of men in battle and of the historical realities that continue to influence our world.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 26, 2019, 11:22:47 PM
Well, you drew me in.  I just checked out two of his books I haven't read: Last of the Amazons and The Virtues of War.  I think I'm going to start Virtues tomorrow.

Thanks Gus!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on May 27, 2019, 07:28:02 AM
Quote from: CJReich46 on May 25, 2019, 11:05:15 PM
The Book of The New Sun by Gene Wolfe . I have the first part Shadow of the Torturer and Claw of the Conciliator

Heard its really interesting with the world building etc. Just in the 2nd chapter. Taking my time with this.

It's worth taking your time. Absolutely brilliant series. To me it reads like fine literature as much as sci fi/fantasy. There's a final, 5th book called Urth of the new Sun that rounds out the series. I've probably read them a half a dozen times in the last 25 years. I was struck that a critic called Wolfe "the greatest living American author".

He wrote a couple of other trilogies that take place in the same universe that I sadly just didn't like that much. I forced myself to finish them but won't be reading them again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2019, 09:04:35 AM
Looks like I'm gonna be reading Pressfield books for a while. I knew about Tides of War but not The Afghan Campaign...I need to read both 😎🤓
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 27, 2019, 11:50:38 AM
I placed a hold with my library for those New Sun books.  I'm not sure they're my thing, but the praise is pretty high so I'll give them a try.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 27, 2019, 11:51:40 AM
They're all good, but none as good as Gates of Fire in my opinion. He's also got a couple more modern ones, The Profession, about a future war, and Killing Rommel is set in WWII (obviously).

Probably my favorite Pressfield book after Gates of Fire, though, is his non-fiction The Lion's Gate about the Six Day War. Absolutely brilliant story telling from the perspective of Moshe Dayan all the way down to the Israeli paratroopers on the streets of Jerusalem.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2019, 12:12:22 PM
Damn you all. Maybe I will be a responsible citizen and place a hold on every Pressfield title at my library.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2019, 05:06:09 PM
200 pages in, the Spartans engaged the Syracusans and their allies...I have never read a battle description so well written and vivid. Not only did it read like he was there, it reads like he was a gifted writer who happened to be there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 28, 2019, 06:59:07 AM
Quote from: Gusington on May 27, 2019, 05:06:09 PM
200 pages in, the Spartans engaged the Syracusans and their allies...I have never read a battle description so well written and vivid. Not only did it read like he was there, it reads like he was a gifted writer who happened to be there.

Yeah, that's a great scene. I get chills every time I read the part where the Spartan spears snap down to the horizontal.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 28, 2019, 07:54:09 AM
The scenes of the drill instructors dressing down Xeo are unreal too. The Spartan instructors here make Army drill instructors or Marine gunnery sergeants look like cuddly pups.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 28, 2019, 07:45:48 PM
I have the Pressfield books downloaded on my Kindle, but I decided for some unknown reason to finish A Bright Shining Lie.  Since it's been so long since I left off, I re-started it.  Diggin' it so far (again).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 29, 2019, 07:33:57 AM
Found a copy of The Afghan Campaign for .95 cents so I'll definitely be reading it at some point this summer. I have become an ancients fan boi!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on May 29, 2019, 09:10:33 AM
Currently reading the Alex Verus series by Benedict Jacka (currently on book 6 I think) and Tiamat's Wrath (book 8 of the Expanse series)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on June 03, 2019, 06:24:03 PM
New book on Chickamauga campaign.



by Eric J. Wittenberg

El Dorado Canyon, Ca.: Savas Beatie, 2018. Pp. xx, 268. Illus., maps, appends., notes, biblio., index. $29.95. ISBN: 1611214300

How Union Mounted Troops Opened the Ball at Chickamauga

Among the most prolific of Civil War historians, Wittenberg, author of One Continuous Fight, Like a Meteor Blazing Brightly, The Battle of Brandy Station, and many other works, has the knack of getting readers right into the front lines, while at the same time familiarizing them with the "Big Picture" and the conduct of war. This is well displayed in this look at the remarkable holding action by two rather weak Union mounted brigades on the eve of the Battle of Chickamauga that certainly saved the Army of the Cumberland from a disaster far worse than that which befell it over the following two days.

Wittenberg begins by introducing us to Col. H.G. Minty's "Saber Brigade", cavalrymen armed mostly with breech loaders, and Col. John T. Wilder's "Lightening Brigade", most mounted infantrymen armed with Spencer repeating rifles. He explains the circumstances that brought them to spend September 18, 1863, covering the front of the Army of the Cumberland as Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans desperately juggled his army corps to cope with an unanticipated Confederate offensive, and then plunges into a detailed account of their actions that day.

With a thorough knowledge of tactics, and excellent use of terrain, the two brigades, numbering hardly 2,000 men with a few pieces of artillery, held off far larger forces, in an action easily matching the more famous holding one by Brig. Gen. John Buford's cavalry on the first day at Gettysburg. At times Wittenberg gives us almost a minute by minute account of the events, drawing upon a large volume of personal accounts by men from both sides, while offering us a basic course in tactics; his description of vidette and outpost duty is the best summary this reviewer has seen.

Wittenberg covers the events of the 18th, and the role of the brigades during the Battle of Chickamauga through the Union retirement into Chattanooga, arguing that the battle, usually dated September 19-20 actually extended over a longer period. He follows with an overview of the careers of the two colonels and their troops through and beyond the end of the war, and then adds a mini-guidebook for anyone who wants to visit the scene.

This is an outstanding account of one of the most impressive, and very overlooked, feats of arms during the Civil War, and worth a read by anyone with an interested in the war or in mounted operations..


Note: Holding the Line on the River of Death is also available in several e-editions


---///---
Reviewer: A. A. Nofi   

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on June 04, 2019, 05:45:58 AM
Most (but not all) of Wittenberg's books deal with cavalry actions; One Continuous Fight covers Lee's retreat from G'burg to the Potomac River, Brandy Station is self-explanatory, Plenty of Blame to Go Around is about Stuart's G'burg ride (and completely revised my admittedly superficial estimate of him), and Protecting the Flanks and The Devil's to Pay both cover the cavalry battles around G'burg.  I was a bit less excited by The Second Battle of Winchester - the information's great and it really does a good job of showing what a clusterf*ck the battle was, but Wittenberg's writing style was a bit different.  I don't know if it was because he had a co-author (Scott Mingus) or what, but I found it a bit less engaging.  Heh - remember Robert Milroy?
If you want obscure scenarios for the Civil War, or want to try something different, these are great resources.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 08, 2019, 02:14:15 PM
Down to the last few chapters of Gates of Fire. Damned if they are not making me teary. A lot in there about 'the comrade next to you' and brotherhood, etc. Pressfield is some writer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on June 08, 2019, 03:52:58 PM
Current to-read list:


This isn't including the backlog of books I've picked up because they seem so interesting and I might have time to read them sooner or later  :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 08, 2019, 05:04:16 PM
^Welcome, we've been waiting for you...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 08, 2019, 05:43:12 PM
Gabba-gabba- we accept you! We accept you!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 09, 2019, 01:12:48 PM
About to begin Lords of the Sea - The Epic Story of the Athenian Navy and the Birth of Democracy by John Hale.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 09, 2019, 01:14:56 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 08, 2019, 02:14:15 PM
Down to the last few chapters of Gates of Fire. Damned if they are not making me teary. A lot in there about 'the comrade next to you' and brotherhood, etc. Pressfield is some writer.

Yeah, an Amazing book. I love the end in at the Battle of Platea where you see Rooster as the Persians see him and not as the Spartans see him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 09, 2019, 01:16:04 PM
I feel fortunate to have finally read Gates of Fire and unfortunate to have waited so long!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 09, 2019, 01:28:57 PM
Not to make you jealous, but in a couple of months I'm going to be leading a group of officers on a guided trip to Thermopylae and Platea. I went a few years ago on my own and the battlefields are exactly as you imagine them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 09, 2019, 01:34:00 PM
I think my invite was lost in the mail  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 12, 2019, 08:49:06 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 09, 2019, 01:28:57 PM
Not to make you jealous, but in a couple of months I'm going to be leading a group of officers on a guided trip to Thermopylae and Platea. I went a few years ago on my own and the battlefields are exactly as you imagine them.

Jelly nonetheless.  :( 

Making a book order soon for the Ursula LeGuin Illustrated Earthsea volume.  I will definitely add Gates of Fire to that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 12, 2019, 09:09:59 PM
You must!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on June 15, 2019, 05:33:58 PM
Quote from: Airborne Rifles on June 09, 2019, 12:28:57 PM

    Not to make you jealous, but in a couple of months I'm going to be leading a group of officers on a guided trip to Thermopylae and Platea. I went a few years ago on my own and the battlefields are exactly as you imagine them.

Good choices, a lot has changed in the elapsed time, so bring good maps.
I wanted to see Leuctra, where the Thebans wrecked a Spartan phalanx, but unless the government has upgraded the site, it's totally unremarkable.  There was one pillar noting the battle occurred there.  Nothing else.
Salamis is worth a look, but again, you would want a good map or reference book.  It's an active seaway into Elefsis shipyards, and there was nothing to help understand the battle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 16, 2019, 01:14:23 AM
Yeah, I went on my own a few years ago and Platea is very unremarkable as well. The good thing about Platea and Thermopylae though is that the area for both battlefields is pretty much undeveloped and unchanged, which is remarkable after two and a half millennia.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on June 16, 2019, 10:57:00 AM
If you want a break on the way back to Athens, Schinias beach is right next to Marathon.  It's dominated by the burial mound, and the terrain is mostly the same as it was back around 1900.
There were some nice convenience stands, and the beach and water are gorgeous.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 18, 2019, 12:05:34 PM
That sounds like a cool trip, AR.  Jelly!

I recently finished a bunch of books:  The Godfather (pretty good), The Wars of the Roses by Dan Jones which was also pretty good. I never quite could get through Alison Weir's version, but Dan Jones writes in a more accessible style.  The story was fascinating.  I read his Plantagenet history a few years ago so it was nice to close the loop.

The Last Dive, a sort-of autobiography of the author's adventures in extreme diving told around the story of the Rouses, a father/son team that both lost their lives diving on a German U-boat off the NJ coast that was the focus of the book Shadow Divers.  Wreck diving is huge in NJ and I used to dive the wrecks that could be accessed from a beach dive all the time when I was in college, but I had no idea just how challenging and dangerous true wreck diving is.  The writing was only average, but if you're into diving it's worth a read if you can get it from the library.

Raise the Titanic by Clive Cussler, about the 10th time I've read it.  It didn't quite hold up as well as I had hoped...I had to sort of dumb my brain down to that of 18 year old Toonces and try to just go with the flow.

Finally, I finished The Shining, about the 4th time I've read it.  Unlike Titanic, it does still hold up.  I don't think I've read the follow-on book, so I'll be adding that to the list at some point.

I'm at various stages of a handful of other books; about halfway through A Bright Shining Lie, part way through General Lee's Army, and just started Shattered Sword for the 4th or 5th time due to the thread in the computer gaming forum.  I have a whole bunch of new books loaded up on my Kindle, but haven't started any of them yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 18, 2019, 12:06:56 PM
Quote from: besilarius on June 04, 2019, 05:45:58 AM
Most (but not all) of Wittenberg's books deal with cavalry actions; Plenty of Blame to Go Around is about Stuart's G'burg ride (and completely revised my admittedly superficial estimate of him),

My mom bought this for me for Xmas like 10 years ago, but I still haven't read it.  I might have to pull it off the bookshelf soon.  Thanks for the heads up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on June 18, 2019, 07:42:31 PM
http://www.navyhistory.org/2019/04/winning-a-future-war-war-gaming-and-victory-in-the-pacific-war/

"Despite the vast numbers of books written on World War II in the last seventy years, there is still much we do not yet fully understand or appreciate. Prominent Naval Historian Norman Friedman fills yet another of these gaps in our knowledge with his book Winning a Future War. More specifically, Friedman helps us to understand and appreciate the important interwar role the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) and its war gaming played in preparing the Navy and its officers to fight the Pacific War. Friedman convincingly argues that the NWC served as the Navy's think tank in the 1920s and well into the 1930s, influencing war plans, naval aviation, ship design, and many other important issues that proved critical to ultimate victory over the Imperial Japanese Navy in the Pacific."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 18, 2019, 08:01:29 PM
^That sounds...deep.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on June 18, 2019, 09:26:21 PM
Toonces should have some insight into that stuff. After all, he got to hang out there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 19, 2019, 08:10:30 AM
Some good Baseball history...  The 1906 World Series, Chicago Cubs vs. Chicago White Sox.

The first intra-city World Series

"When Chicago Ruled Baseball"
https://www.amazon.com/When-Chicago-Ruled-Baseball-Cubs-White-ebook/dp/B0054KRIQU/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1SU4BXZS2QPVC&keywords=when+chicago+ruled+baseball&qid=1560949702&s=gateway&sprefix=when+chica%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-3 (https://www.amazon.com/When-Chicago-Ruled-Baseball-Cubs-White-ebook/dp/B0054KRIQU/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1SU4BXZS2QPVC&keywords=when+chicago+ruled+baseball&qid=1560949702&s=gateway&sprefix=when+chica%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-3)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2019, 08:16:21 AM
That sounds good too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 19, 2019, 10:39:51 AM
That Friedman book sounds pretty interesting.  I think I posted this a while back in another thread, but that old wargaming floor you see in the pictures from the pre-war years isn't there anymore.  They turned that whole room into a beautiful international student lounge.  There are some cases with a piece of the old floor, the old ship models they used, etc. but it's otherwise pretty unrecognizable.

Having said that, the new wargaming building is huge, and those guys do a ton of wargaming all year long.  I got to participate in a few and it was pretty cool, but not quite as fun as you might think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 21, 2019, 08:06:59 PM
Just began The Afghan Campaign by Pressfield. Already 40 pages in :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 22, 2019, 10:04:08 AM
I've not been reading war books recently - until the last month or so.

Started and then stopped a poorly edited book on the Spanish Civil War.  Two other books I read were much, much better.

I'm listing to an audiobook version of Black Hawk Down currently.  Reads like a horribly chaotic situation - but what would you expect from a country with no functioning government - for the last 1000 years or so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 22, 2019, 10:51:39 AM
^ I read about half of Black Hawk Down years ago, but I never did finish it.  Be sure to post your thoughts when you're done.  I could be convinced to give it another go.   :)

Edit:  Ah, I missed the audiobook part.  I'm definitely not an audiobook guy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 25, 2019, 06:41:58 PM
The Afghan Campaign is even better than Gates of Fire IMHO. Pressfield is quickly becoming one of my favorite writers. Definitely going to get his books on Alexander the Great and The Six Day War. He's got some books on writing too that would probably help me help myself too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 25, 2019, 10:10:07 PM
I just got my copy of, "Normandy '44" by James Holland, 720 pages. That should keep me busy until X-Mas.  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 25, 2019, 11:41:31 PM
Good for you, Gus.  I am really glad you like it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 26, 2019, 08:26:43 AM
^Can't believe it took me this long to get to these books :/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on June 26, 2019, 01:09:47 PM
Better late than never!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 26, 2019, 01:14:08 PM
I can't get over how quickly I get through them...they are really quick reads. Pressfield has a gift. I am going to pickup. Virtues of War next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 27, 2019, 10:07:28 AM
Just finished up, "Rampage:The Battle of Manila" by James Scott. Great book about the battle and commanders, Mac Arthur & Yamashita as well as the soldiers stories as well. Also a fact-based and brutal telling of the Japanese atrocities committed against the Phillipino and American civilians caught in the middle. Enjoyed it but you need a strong stomach to get through it at times. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 05, 2019, 11:13:11 AM
Quote from: Toonces on June 22, 2019, 10:51:39 AM
^ I read about half of Black Hawk Down years ago, but I never did finish it.  Be sure to post your thoughts when you're done.  I could be convinced to give it another go.   :)

Edit:  Ah, I missed the audiobook part.  I'm definitely not an audiobook guy.

I've found Black Hawk Down to be poorly edited and of questionable accuracy.  The guy keeps writing about what is going on in the minds of individual US Soldiers and Somalis which I find difficult to believe.  Did he interview all of these people - doubtful, especially the Somalis and the ones who died.  Did he actually get what was going through the minds of all of those people at the time - highly doubtful.  I'm sure quite a bit of it is an accurate description of chaos and old night when an urban battle goes to absolute hell unplanned - but I think he went too far.

The book is also poorly edited.  He keeps jumping back and forth from backstory to current events and back again.  He also takes on so many viewpoints that it is even harder to follow what is going on even given the chaotic situation.  I would not recommend this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 05, 2019, 12:26:30 PM
Started Legion vs. Phalanx by Myke Cole, another quick read. The author has had quite an interesting life in the military and law enforcement and is a self-professed nerd and wargamer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2019, 05:30:25 PM
Tearing through books this summer. Now reading Taken by the Flood: The Roman Invasion of Greece...forgot the author's name.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on July 10, 2019, 08:12:26 PM
"Lincoln and the Abolitionists" by Kaplan  Just started it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 17, 2019, 05:31:36 PM
Just started Life in Egypt Under Roman Rule by Naphtali Lewis. Slightly academic but the author has a good sense of humor too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on July 19, 2019, 05:41:49 PM
Just finished The Good Shepard by C.S. Forester which I hear Tom Hanks is making into a movie, and have now started Dividing the Spoils, The War for Alexander The Great's Empire. Should be a nice read to accompany my Field of Glory Empires play.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2019, 06:39:52 PM
^Have Dividing the Spoils in my Amazon shopping cart. Need to read that soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 30, 2019, 08:51:11 AM
Continuing my ancient reading marathon I have begun Harry Sidebottom's third (of six) Warrior of Rome book. Fifty pages in and the writing is even better than the first two, which is saying something.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DoctorQuest on July 30, 2019, 02:25:54 PM
I found a number of the original Fleming Bond ebooks on Amazon for 99 cents. Been working through "Dr. No", "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball".

Great adventure fare if a bit dated. I read the hell out of these books in my youth. They are as good as I remember. The sad part is that Fleming did his best to live like Bond and ended up dead at 56. Getting away with heavy drinking and smoking is really the stuff of fiction, unfortunately.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 30, 2019, 05:18:08 PM
I decided to take the plunge on David Glantz' Stalingrad Series:

Starting with "To the Gates of Stalingrad"

Very well written for such a dense (in a good way) treatment of the subject.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0700616306/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0700616306/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: solops on July 31, 2019, 09:40:57 PM
Just got a GREAT new book "The Complete Guide To German Armored Vehicles" by David Doyle. Cheap, only $26 on Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 13, 2019, 02:09:16 PM
Quote from: Toonces on June 18, 2019, 12:05:34 PM
Raise the Titanic by Clive Cussler, about the 10th time I've read it.  It didn't quite hold up as well as I had hoped...I had to sort of dumb my brain down to that of 18 year old Toonces and try to just go with the flow.

Best read at the peak of the Cold War. Doesn't hold up well but still a decent Cussler book - it's what got me into his books. The movie is even worse as far as holding up, but there IS something about that scene where Titanic is pulled in to New York.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Bardolph on August 13, 2019, 02:34:24 PM
The comments on Blackhawk Down led to me finding this:

http://inquirer.philly.com/packages/somalia/nov16/default16.asp


I've read the book and watched the movie but this is the original multi-media format. Shame most of the video clips are broken.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 21, 2019, 08:54:57 PM
I just finished Balkan Ghosts - written just before the fall of the Berlin Wall to the early 1990s.  Very interesting, very depressing.

His thesis was that every nation, ethnic group, religion, and what-not view the borders of the Balkans as "what ever point in history we had our high water mark - plus maybe a bit more" as the "natural boundary" of nations in the region.

Having been fortunate to travel through the area (Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia-Hertegnova, Hungary, Austria, Romania, Slovakia, Chezt Republic (spelling) and Greece it is a really screwed up region.  We did a Danube cruise from Bulgaria to Vienna and we have been to Turkey three times.

The number of monuments to wars not even remembered by the rest of the world (3 wars in the Balkans before WW1, every war and uprising against the Turks, and every single religious war ever) plus the casual comments by people about how much they hated (insert name - but everyone the Turks and Moslems outside the Turks and Moslems) to chance foreign visitors is amazing.  That was from our travels.

It is an interesting book - but it has its gaps.  The guy does not understand historical agriculture (Romania was a breadbasket of Rome and much of Europe until WW2 and when the Communists really screwed it up) and some other things.  Still, it gives you an excellent "slice of life" of the ethnic hatreds and ethnic cleansing that have been going on there since the 1200s.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on August 23, 2019, 06:12:34 AM
Airboy, that does sound good.  Have to look that up.
The Bulgarians seem to have been among the worst at claiming territory.
One of Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points after World War I, suggested that peoples who had historical claims to territory they lived in, should have their own country.
The Bulgarians came to the table and said that as the descendants of the Avars, who had conquered the Balkans in the Fifth century, they had the oldest, and therefore best claim to all of the Balkan peninsula.
They were politely ignored, which only made them angrier.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2019, 07:36:04 AM
Balkan Ghosts is one of my favorite books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 25, 2019, 11:15:35 PM
I really enjoyed Balkan Ghosts, too.  A lot of info on a place I knew little about.

Just finished LotR for the umpteenth time.  Going to get back to Guns, Germs, and Steel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 26, 2019, 06:57:10 AM
I have a copy of Guns, Germs and Steel that I tried to read 20 years ago...I'll try again one day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 26, 2019, 09:41:33 AM
Quote from: Gusington on August 26, 2019, 06:57:10 AM
I have a copy of Guns, Germs and Steel that I tried to read 20 years ago...I'll try again one day.

I read it and it was interesting.  Too much on how resources hindered the politically correct people from developing and too little on how a society's philosophy of cause and effect has on development.  But it was still interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 28, 2019, 09:41:19 AM
^ I gave Germs a good try a long time ago.  I agree with Airboy, it was pretty interesting.  But for me, after I got about halfway through, I kind of got the gist and shelved it for something else.  That's how I remember it anyway.

I've been thinking of giving LotR another go.  I've only read it once, and that was at least 10 or 15 years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on August 28, 2019, 11:28:03 PM
I have found through the years that there are LotR people and there are those who aren't.  As an admitted fanboi, I will wholeheartedly endorse giving it another go.  If you get through it and enjoy it, it is well worth it.  The feeling of depth and epicness and import is..a joy to experience.  However, if you find your eyes glazing at the odd names and places, the bits of poetry, and the pace, you should just give up.  No shame, it's just not for you.

As for Guns, I got about half way through before I had to bring it back to the library.  I don't feel like I missed anything not reading the rest.  When i go back to the library Saturday, I think I will look for Balkan Ghosts again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on August 30, 2019, 06:11:04 AM

Revolutionary France's War of Conquest in the Rhineland: Conquering the Natural Frontier, 1792-1797


by Jordan R. Hayworth

Cambridge & New York: Cambridge University Press, 2019. Pp. xviii, 346. Map, table, notes, biblio., index. $120.00. ISBN: 1108497454

The Rhineland Campaigns of Revolutionary France

The author of several works on French military history, Prof. Hayworth (Air Command and Staff College), has written an impressive account of why and how, within a few years of renouncing wars of conquest, Republican France undertook and carried out a successful war to secure the Rhineland.

Hayworth begins by noting that, contrary to nineteenth century nationalist scholarship, expansion to the Rhine (France's "natural frontier"), had not been a policy of the ancien regime, despite frequent campaigns into the region, but an idea that arose out of the fierce politics of revolutionary factionalism.

Hayworth then gives us a very detailed account of military operations during the war within framework of France's internal politics. So we get a look not only at battles and sieges, some quite impressive, but also at the logistical problems of the revolutionary armies. He also demonstrated that the vaunted "fervor" of the conscripts of 1793 – another myth of the French historiography – waned as the war became one of conquest, rather than the defense of the Republic. In the process, Hayworth also gives us looks at a lot of generals and politicians, many of considerable ability – Hoche, Moreau, Mirabeau, Luckner, Pichegru – now mostly forgotten, as well as others still well-known, due largely to their role in the Napoleonic era.

Revolutionary France's War of Conquest in the Rhineland, a volume in the Cambridge Military Histories series, is an excellent account of what has been a largely neglected war.

Lots of good scenarios for this forgotten series of battles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 15, 2019, 11:00:32 AM
I just finished Stephen King's On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft.

https://www.amazon.com/Writing-10th-Anniversary-Memoir-Craft/dp/1439156816/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stephen+King+On+Writing&qid=1568562869&s=gateway&sr=8-1

I really enjoyed it, more than I thought I would.  The first part of the book is a memoir of his life and some of the history behind the books he's written.  The second part is a sort-of tutorial on writing.  What I found most interesting in that part is how he usually writes fiction.  Instead of developing a plot (which is how I would have thought to approach it), he likes to put characters in a situation and see how the story develops from there.  A lot of times he has no idea how the story will evolve or end.  I found it absolutely fascinating.

I've always wanted to write something.  Maybe this book will finally get me off my bum and give it a try.  Like he says, it's free, you know?

I give it two thumbs up.

I'm now finally giving Steven Pressfield's The Virtues of War a read.  Pressfield's writing is just amazing. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 15, 2019, 07:01:51 PM
Haven't posted here in a while...but the season is now ripe for dark fantasy. So I am almost done with Scourge by Gail Martin. Very, very good. Will be reading the sequel, Vengeance, too.

Bes that book above sound meaty and delicious. EDIT: 90.00 dollah??? whoa
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 15, 2019, 09:28:43 PM
Gus, if you'd like to splurge on some real-life Halloween mysteries (still going on today), I can mostly recommend the Missing 411 books -- though finding them isn't easy!

(ironically) (ba-dump-tish)

Maybe start with "A Sobering Coincidence", which gathers together an impressive subset of mysterious deaths independently investigated by a pair of former New York officials (detective and coroner).


I say "mostly" because you'll soon notice that the author tends to overshoot quite a bit in trying to suss out connections between the cases beyond the standard criteria for inclusion (for example in a still-fairly religious nation like the US, a significant number of disappearances and deaths in the M411 category happen to religious or spiritual people! oooooh.  ::) ) Also in his earlier books (the Western and Eastern duology), he tends to include old newspaper cases with fewer details that might perhaps count maybe in his criteria; in other words he has no early gradation of quality, so these very secondary or tertiary cases get counted in clusters like fuller entries even though they may well not be.

Still, the remaining cases left over are unnerving. Enough so that the other independent investigators of the Sobering Coincidence subcategory concluded there must be a nationwide cult of some sort, out kidnapping and murdering mostly-young-men by drugging and then drowning them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on September 16, 2019, 06:22:39 AM
Quote from: Toonces on September 15, 2019, 11:00:32 AM
I just finished Stephen King's On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft.

https://www.amazon.com/Writing-10th-Anniversary-Memoir-Craft/dp/1439156816/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stephen+King+On+Writing&qid=1568562869&s=gateway&sr=8-1

I really enjoyed it, more than I thought I would.  The first part of the book is a memoir of his life and some of the history behind the books he's written.  The second part is a sort-of tutorial on writing.  What I found most interesting in that part is how he usually writes fiction.  Instead of developing a plot (which is how I would have thought to approach it), he likes to put characters in a situation and see how the story develops from there.  A lot of times he has no idea how the story will evolve or end.  I found it absolutely fascinating.

I've always wanted to write something.  Maybe this book will finally get me off my bum and give it a try.  Like he says, it's free, you know?

I give it two thumbs up.

I'm now finally giving Steven Pressfield's The Virtues of War a read.  Pressfield's writing is just amazing.

His book was absolutely fantastic.

Just finished rereading Virtues of War. I agree, Pressfield is a joy to read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on September 16, 2019, 06:46:11 AM
Call Sign Chaos by Jim Mattis and Bing West.

The title speaks for itself!

Just picked it up this weekend and haven't started yet. Need to finish Bagration 1944: The Destruction of Army Group Center, first. It's part of the Classic Battles series from Osprey Military.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 16, 2019, 07:20:54 AM
Thanks Pratt!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on September 16, 2019, 07:03:10 PM
Reading the first book of the trilogy on The Battle Chickamauga by David A. Powell. Good read!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 17, 2019, 08:30:09 AM
There's an epilogue or something to the trilogy, too, focusing on the Confederate Cavalry.

Nice to see a less famous Tennessee battle getting the full trilogy attention (with supporting maps as a fifth book even!)  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on September 17, 2019, 06:47:06 PM
 Spearhead: An American Tank Gunner, His Enemy, and a Collision of Lives in World War II
Archives

by Adam Makos

New York: Random House Ballantine Books, 2019. Pp. xiv, 382+. Illus., maps, diagr., notes, biblio., index. $28.00. ISBN: 0804176728

Tank Duel in the Rhineland

The best guide to the detailed history of armor combat on the Western front in 1944-45 may be the various books by Steven Zaloga, while you get the visceral feel of intense tank combat by watching Brad Pitt in Fury (2014), or playing the World of Tanks video game. But those who want a dramatic – and true – story about the tankers of both sides, blended with much of the tactical and technical background, should read Spearhead.

Mr. Makos has written a number of accounts of veterans' experiences in World War II. This one is hard to beat. First off, the story of how this story came to be told is remarkable. It tells of an epic confrontation in Cologne between a classic German Panther Panzer V tank and the new American Pershing, M26 tank, filmed by a combat photographer (stunning stills from which are included). The author learned about that "duel" some 60 years later from a teen's interviews of veterans for an Eagle Scout project. Makos found other surviving veterans from that tank unit and its supporting infantrymen and in 2013 took one (the American tank gunner, Clarence Smoyer) to the scene at the Cologne cathedral, and introduced him to a German gunner who had witnessed the event from another tank.

The book is named for the Third Armored (Spearhead) Division, in which Smoyer served. It picks up his story in September 1944 near Mons, Belgium, where his 32nd Armored Regiment's Sherman tanks violently engaged German troops fleeing from Normandy. From there the book interweaves the separate accounts of Smoyer and the German gunner, Gustav Schaefer, until their paths met in Cologne and then follows Smoyer to the war's end.

Meanwhile, Makos works in explanations of the mainstay Sherman 75mm M-4A1 tank and the opposing German Panther, and their tactical use.

Most accounts of the 1944-45 campaign tell of hapless Shermans bouncing shells off Panthers and then bursting in flame when hit by the superior German gun. Less often told are the counter-measures he describes, which reduced the Sherman's flammability risk after penetration from 80% to 15%, by changing ammo storage, enhancing armor with field expedients (e.g., welding on armor from totaled tanks, securing steel tracks or sand bags to the hull, etc.), and upgrading the gun to the high velocity 76mm.

The ultimate fix was a new generation tank. That was not, however, as obvious to decision-makers who, like Patton, found the Sherman good enough in 1943, when there was time for a new model to make a difference. The critics, who know now with perfect hindsight what was needed, often ignore the Sherman's strengths, including its ability to make long road marches without breakdowns (which plagued the heavy German tanks) and burn less scarce fuel than the bigger guzzlers. Shermans could log 2,000 miles without major maintenance and quickly change the engine in the field when needed. Smoyer's tanks successfully made several such long road marches in the course of his war. A gunner like Smoyer especially appreciated powered turret rotation enabling quick engagement of targets, even from one side of the road to the other.

A new tank did arrive, the Pershing T-26E3 with a powerful 90mm gun, heavy frontal armor and a low silhouette somewhat like the Panzer's. Clarence Smoyer's crew got one of the few in the European theater. That turned out to be a good match. Smoyer was a natural gunner, though never formally trained. In tests of the Pershing for the division commander, Smoyer reduced a chimney 1,200 yards away, to rubble in one shot. Asked to repeat the feat, he hit a smaller chimney at 1,500 yards. his sniping coup was somewhat diminished when the Pershing's muzzle blast bowled over Maj. Gen Maurice Rose, the division commander, standing nearby. General Rose recovered his stance and poise in time to laud the Pershing and the superb gunnery.

The climax, of course, is the tank battle in Cologne. Makos calls it a "duel", a bit of an exaggeration since one of the "duelists" never fired a shot. The reason is interesting. Smoyer's Pershing drove into an intersection over-watched by the Panther, whose gun was sighted on the intersection. Smoyer didn't know where the Panther was until he entered the intersection, which should have been a second too late. However, due to the Pershing's low silhouette, the German tank commander, never having seen a Pershing, thought it was a Panther and ordered the gunner to hesitate. He did so long enough for Smoyer to fire shells into and through the Panther. All of which was recorded on movie film. Stills from that film show the long muzzle blast from Smoyer's gun and then the flames erupting from the German tank.

Smoyer's unit moved on across the Rhine, from where they were sent on another long road march to close the encirclement of the Ruhr industrial area. They accomplished this mission at Paderborn, home of the German tank school; In intense combat with perhaps the best tankers in the Wehrmacht, Smoyer proved once again what he and the Pershing could accomplish.

Spearhead also tells us about the armored infantrymen supporting the tankers, especially against German infantry with the tank-killing Panzerfaust. As with the tankers, Makos found a surviving infantryman who fought alongside Smoyer.

These interlocking accounts are backed up with thorough research, including regimental morning reports and visits to the battle scenes with the survivors. The extensive notes include citations from Steve Zaloga on technical aspects, diagrams of the layout of the Sherman and Panther showing each crew member's position, and map sketches explaining the one-on-one tank battles. Also included are photos of those named in the story and their vehicles.

One unfortunate omission is that other than a few generalizations, there's a notable lack of useful information about tank maintenance. Thus, Makos's accounts of the tankers on both sides misses the opportunity to confirm by way of their experience whether or not the insistence of American logisticians on tight control of maintenance, including the flow of spare parts, kept the Shermans rolling when lack of the of spares and other inefficiencies on the German side left otherwise powerful Panthers abandoned by the roadside. ("For want of a nail....")

Makos's style is relaxed and readable, assisted by short paragraphs. It is accessible to the general reader
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 18, 2019, 07:42:38 AM
 :o O0 :notworthy:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on September 18, 2019, 05:16:52 PM
And today, Gunner Smoyer was awarded the Bronze Star in a surprise ceremony at the World War II memorial in Washington, DC.

https://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/wwii-hero-of-cologne-receives-valor-award-nearly-75-years-after-famous-tank-battle-1.599524
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on September 19, 2019, 08:42:44 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on September 17, 2019, 08:30:09 AM
There's an epilogue or something to the trilogy, too, focusing on the Confederate Cavalry.

Nice to see a less famous Tennessee battle getting the full trilogy attention (with supporting maps as a fifth book even!)  8)

I have the companion book Maps of Chickamauga and it's a great reference to have while reading the books. The other book is about the failure of the Confederate cavalry during the campaign. About 35% into the first book and it's a great read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 01, 2019, 01:34:02 PM
Have read a few Kindle schlock horror reads that ranged from kitschy to crappy. Now, on to the good stuff...about to start either The Witching Hour by Anne Rice or Dr. Sleep by Stephen King. Not sure which (witch?) yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on October 01, 2019, 02:35:39 PM
Have started Kevin Hamilton's Judas Unchained, the sequel to his excellent Pandora's Star.  My copy just arrived in the mail today, which is great timing, as I'd finished the latter a couple days ago. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 01, 2019, 04:03:10 PM
Finished Reaper Man by Terry Pratchett.  It was one of the better ones.

About 50% through Monster Hunter Guardian by Larry Correia and Sarah Hoyt.  It has been outstanding.

Just got The Price of Admiralty by Keegan which is a reading accompanying a geezer history class on technology and warfare that I'm taking.

Continuing to slug through Savage Continent: Europe in the Aftermath of WW2.  The degree of ethnic cleansing, starvation, disease, murder, etc..... after the war ended in different parts of Europe is horrifying.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 02, 2019, 09:30:28 AM
^ I'm using a portion of the chapter on the Battle of the Atlantic to teach a class next week on operational art and theater anti-submarine warfare.  I used the Midway portion as a case study for a class I taught at the Naval War College as well.  It's a good book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on October 02, 2019, 09:31:29 AM
I'm still working my way through Virtues of War and Your Money or Your Life.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 02, 2019, 10:57:54 AM
Interesting. What's your thoughts on if the Germans had come-up with the snorkel for their U-Boats early in the war what effect it would've had on the course of the battle?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 06, 2019, 11:31:51 AM
300 pages in to the 1000 page tome that is The Witching Hour by Anne Rice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 06, 2019, 01:42:39 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on October 02, 2019, 10:57:54 AM
Interesting. What's your thoughts on if the Germans had come-up with the snorkel for their U-Boats early in the war what effect it would've had on the course of the battle?

The Snorkel was actually first deployed by the Dutch on several of their Home Waters-based subs, just before WW2. The Germans subsequently had it themselves after they invaded the Netherlands in 1940 and took some of the Dutch naval tech back to Germany.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 06, 2019, 07:12:05 PM
Did not know that. Thanks Stagger.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on October 09, 2019, 08:22:14 AM
Well, don't give Doenitz and crew too much credit. 
They were totally hornswoggled by the brits about their Metox radar detector.  It allowed the Uboat to determine if it was being tracked by the british airborne radar.
However, a captured pilot spun a story that Metox was the cause of Uboat losses.  He said it actually had transmissions, and the Coastal Command aircraft homed in on Metox.
This explained everything without accepting that the brits were reading Enigma. 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metox_radar_detector

Doenitz and staff were submarine specialists and never really had a great ability to work outside of their specialty.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 09, 2019, 10:31:26 AM
Just started Ernst Junger's, Storm of Steel.

I have read several WWI trench memoirs and this is darkest of the lot. However it is also the most visually descriptive. Junger makes me feel the experience of trench warfare like no other memoir I have read.

Anyone interested WWI on the Western Front should definitely give this book some time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 09, 2019, 01:28:51 PM
Storm of Steel is perpetually in my Amazon cart. Haven't bought it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 09, 2019, 01:33:52 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on October 06, 2019, 01:42:39 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on October 02, 2019, 10:57:54 AM
Interesting. What's your thoughts on if the Germans had come-up with the snorkel for their U-Boats early in the war what effect it would've had on the course of the battle?

The Snorkel was actually first deployed by the Dutch on several of their Home Waters-based subs, just before WW2. The Germans subsequently had it themselves after they invaded the Netherlands in 1940 and took some of the Dutch naval tech back to Germany.

That is really interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 11, 2019, 09:23:57 PM
Finished Monster Hunter Guardian and it was enjoyable.

Reading another Terry Pratchett book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on October 11, 2019, 10:05:34 PM
Quote from: airboy on October 09, 2019, 01:33:52 PM
Quote from: Staggerwing on October 06, 2019, 01:42:39 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on October 02, 2019, 10:57:54 AM
Interesting. What's your thoughts on if the Germans had come-up with the snorkel for their U-Boats early in the war what effect it would've had on the course of the battle?

The Snorkel was actually first deployed by the Dutch on several of their Home Waters-based subs, just before WW2. The Germans subsequently had it themselves after they invaded the Netherlands in 1940 and took some of the Dutch naval tech back to Germany.

That is really interesting.

It certainly is.
The Dutch were not the first to experiment with it (IIRC, the Italians and the Brits did so before) but the Dutch actually put it into use. The Germans only seemed interested in using it for cabin ventilation and didn't give it much thought until their Uboats were forced to operate underwater for increasingly longer times due to the Allies' advances in detecting surfaced subs.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 13, 2019, 07:15:27 PM
Finished Witching Hour today. Excellent. Picked up the 2nd and final books in the series too.

Rice is still writing too...going to pick up a newer book on Lestat and the first book in her new werewolf series.

She's close to 80 now and still writing!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 04, 2019, 01:23:35 PM
Started Doctor Sleep by Stephen King, about 100 pages in. Kinda meh so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 07, 2019, 03:42:11 PM
Now 350 pages in. More meh. Will watch The Shining tomorrow to feel good about the story again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on November 07, 2019, 04:12:38 PM
Having settled some other reading list things, I am several days into Churchill's HISTORY OF THE ENGLISH SPEAKING PEOPLES, vol 1!

I'm up to the point where Henry III just died, and the Mother of Parliaments is about to be formed. Love it like pizza! (In fact I'm usually eating pizza when I read it.)

Using the Kindle edition to spare my physical copy from any wear.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on November 16, 2019, 03:55:29 AM
I'm in the middle of the Three Body Problem trilogy by Cixin Liu.  Has anyone here read it?  It's a pretty bizarre sci-fi about how the fates of two worlds are entwined.  I guess maybe because the author is Chinese, his characters keep pondering the political and ideological ramifications of everything that happens in the story which takes some getting used to, but overall it's been a pretty riveting read so far.  I'm excited to see how it ends.  It's one of those books where every now and again you're like um...did that actually just happen...flip back a page...yes, yes that really did happen, wow
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 16, 2019, 10:46:11 AM
^Books like that are more rare than I would like them to be.

I am in the middle of The Devil Aspect by Craig Russell:

https://smile.amazon.com/Devil-Aspect-Novel-Craig-Russell/dp/0385544367/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1573919143&sr=8-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on November 16, 2019, 10:49:34 AM
Quote from: Gusington on November 16, 2019, 10:46:11 AM
I am in the middle of The Devil Aspect by Craig Russell

Hmm that sounds intriguing based on the blurb.  Let us know how it turns out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 16, 2019, 10:55:18 AM
200 pages in so far - very, very good. Excellent writing and solid atmosphere. Reminds me a little of From Hell or The Alienist, two of my favorites evah.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 28, 2019, 12:35:33 PM
Reading through some Osprey titles I have had for some time...Medieval Siege Warfare by Christopher Gravett and Richard and Christa Hook and The Battle of Tannenberg 1410 by Stephen Turnbull.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on December 02, 2019, 06:51:37 PM
I've just finished the second book in the Three Body Problem trilogy and I'm pleased to report that it just keeps getting better and better.  There have been one or two times where I thought the author was losing me, but I've since learned to trust him completely.  These books are absolutely knocking me off my feet, in a way that hasn't happened since I read Blindsight by Peter Watts.  They're absolutely thrilling!  The second I finished the book I bought the third and just carried right on reading. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 03, 2019, 08:31:43 AM
Now reading The Accursed Tower by Roger Crowley on the end of the Crusades - Mongols, Mamluks and the fall of Acre, 1291.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 10, 2019, 05:01:14 PM
This is just a heads up on a book that is coming.
Brent Nosworthy, who has done some very detailed books on battle tactics in Napoleonic and ACW wars, has a new book readying for publication.
It will cover the Musket and Pike era, and from his earlier works, should be a lot of fun.
Although the frontispeice indicates this year, he is resigned to it coming out in 2020.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 10, 2019, 07:14:21 PM
Nice...I bet it will be pricey, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 12, 2019, 09:33:49 AM
Just started The Ottomans and the Mamluks: Imperial Diplomacy and Warfare in the Islamic World by Cihan Yuksel Muslu. A little dry and academic in spots while really interesting in other spots. More than half the book is notes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 15, 2019, 01:25:56 PM
Just started Medieval Warfare: A History, edited by Maurice Keen and written by ~12 different authors. It's basically a collection of essays/lectures. Also very academic but very interesting in spots.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on December 15, 2019, 02:41:39 PM
I'm re-reading "How the North Won" , "The Grand Design" and "Battlecry of Freedom" and trying to integrate some of their thoughts into my Civil War II AAR.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 15, 2019, 05:27:20 PM
Paulides released another book this year, focusing on Canada (about half new material); which came as a nice surprise, so I'm mainly on that, with continuations of Vol 2 of Churchill's History of the English Speaking Peoples ("The New World") on the side. Kindle says I'm about an hour out from finishing the latter, though that's probably wrong. ;) I'm in the reign of Charles II, after Cromwell; just had the Great Plague and the Fire of London in 1666.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 18, 2019, 02:26:49 PM
About to begin The Last Days of the Teutonic Knights by William Urban.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 18, 2019, 08:40:10 PM
Do you eat books?  That's like the third weighty tome in a week!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 18, 2019, 09:08:28 PM
The really academic ones I speedread...The Wife taught me how. And if I dare read a 1000 page book or something similar, I do the same. I did it with Anne Rice's Witching Hour and it still took me like two weeks!

I also do it with books that suck but I am too stubborn to stop reading.

It's very very rare for me to stop reading a book no matter how crappy it is. The last time I did that was 15+ years ago with a horrible translation of a Dutch book on colonial New Amsterdam, IIRC.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 18, 2019, 10:49:58 PM
Who knew you married Evelyn Wood?  How much do you retain?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 19, 2019, 09:50:29 AM
Not gonna lie...some. But for books that are crap it doesn't really matter.

I will tell you this...I will not be speed reading the book on the Teutonic Knights by Urban - that guy can write.

For reelz.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 19, 2019, 11:34:15 AM
Just starting, "Hymns of the Republic: The Story of the Last Year of the American Civil War" by S.C. Gwynne, an excellent author. Can't wait to get into it.  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 19, 2019, 12:58:28 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 18, 2019, 09:08:28 PM
The really academic ones I speedread...The Wife taught me how. And if I dare read a 1000 page book or something similar, I do the same. I did it with Anne Rice's Witching Hour and it still took me like two weeks!

He practices using my posts/threads.  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on December 19, 2019, 02:06:13 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on December 19, 2019, 12:58:28 PM
He practices using my posts/threads.  >:D

Oh god help us, it's self-aware! :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 19, 2019, 02:25:26 PM
This is the day we've been fearing. Let's not forget our training.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 19, 2019, 02:53:30 PM
No no no, don't worry!





That day is coming sometime next year. I promise.  >:D >:D >:D >:D >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 19, 2019, 02:55:37 PM
It's when you say 'don't worry' that I worry most.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 19, 2019, 03:27:18 PM
About halfway through Crazy '08: How a Cast of Cranks, Rogues, Boneheads, and Magnates Created the Greatest Year in Baseball History by Cait Murphy.

https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-08-Boneheads-Magnates-Greatest/dp/0060889381 (https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-08-Boneheads-Magnates-Greatest/dp/0060889381)

Well written history of the 1908 baseball season. May even be interesting for someone not into sports history. There is a bunch of social history covered.

The author makes the case that '08 was the greatest season ever. I'm not certain you could ever pick one season and say that's it...but maybe the author will convince me by the end of the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 19, 2019, 04:19:18 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 19, 2019, 02:55:37 PM
It's when you say 'don't worry' that I worry most.

It'll be groggy. Really really really groggy.

Don't worry.

:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on December 19, 2019, 11:41:16 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on December 19, 2019, 03:27:18 PM
About halfway through Crazy '08: How a Cast of Cranks, Rogues, Boneheads, and Magnates Created the Greatest Year in Baseball History by Cait Murphy.

https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-08-Boneheads-Magnates-Greatest/dp/0060889381 (https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-08-Boneheads-Magnates-Greatest/dp/0060889381)

Well written history of the 1908 baseball season. May even be interesting for someone not into sports history. There is a bunch of social history covered.

The author makes the case that '08 was the greatest season ever. I'm not certain you could ever pick one season and say that's it...but maybe the author will convince me by the end of the book.

When I was a boy, I got really into the history of baseball.  That looks awesome!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 20, 2019, 10:14:41 AM
1908 the best season ever? That's quite a ways back. Maybe for the Cubs...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 21, 2019, 02:55:17 PM
That is so interesting, Tripoli.  I was reading How the North Won just yesterday.

Anyway, I'm on book 3 of Catton's The Army of the Potomac trilogy (A Stillness at Appomattox).  I'm really enjoying it; Catton has a very good style of writing, different from Foote.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 21, 2019, 08:29:20 PM
Bro and his family came over, and one of the gifts they gave me was Robert Conquest's 40th Anniversary "Reassessment" edition of The Great Terror. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/0195317009/

This will be expedient for contextual purposes next year at some time yet to be determined.  ^-^
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on December 21, 2019, 10:09:20 PM
Quote from: Toonces on December 21, 2019, 02:55:17 PM
That is so interesting, Tripoli.  I was reading How the North Won just yesterday.

Anyway, I'm on book 3 of Catton's The Army of the Potomac trilogy (A Stillness at Appomattox).  I'm really enjoying it; Catton has a very good style of writing, different from Foote.

Catton is good.  He got me interested in the USCW way back in 1972, although I was so young, I didn't understand his "Army of the Potomac" trilogy then.  The "How the North Won" is an excellent book, effectively merging discussion of the various elements of strategy, tactics, operations, economy and logistics into a coherent, readable narrative.  It and "The Grand Design" should be required reading in any class on the US Civil War.  Right now, I'm reading "The First Team: Pacific Naval AIr Combat from Pearl Harbot to Midway" and "The First Team and the Guadalcanal Campaign"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on December 22, 2019, 11:46:20 AM
I finished The Three Body Problem trilogy.  I'm almost lost for words.  It's an absolute mind-bender, it really is.  The stakes just kept getting higher and higher.  Thoroughly recommended!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on December 23, 2019, 04:01:35 PM
Quote from: Tripoli on December 21, 2019, 10:09:20 PM
Quote from: Toonces on December 21, 2019, 02:55:17 PM
That is so interesting, Tripoli.  I was reading How the North Won just yesterday.

Anyway, I'm on book 3 of Catton's The Army of the Potomac trilogy (A Stillness at Appomattox).  I'm really enjoying it; Catton has a very good style of writing, different from Foote.

Catton is good.  He got me interested in the USCW way back in 1972, although I was so young, I didn't understand his "Army of the Potomac" trilogy then.  The "How the North Won" is an excellent book, effectively merging discussion of the various elements of strategy, tactics, operations, economy and logistics into a coherent, readable narrative.  It and "The Grand Design" should be required reading in any class on the US Civil War.  Right now, I'm reading "The First Team: Pacific Naval AIr Combat from Pearl Harbot to Midway" and "The First Team and the Guadalcanal Campaign"

"How the North Won" is an excellent book. I just finished "How the South Lost" by four authors (two of whom wrote "How the North Won"). It is interesting to compare the ideas they lay out in each book. Logistics and lines of communication mixed in with the South's lack of will to carry on the fight is spread throughout the two books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on December 23, 2019, 04:07:03 PM
I've started Tau Zero by Poul Anderson.  Not bad so far, very nice prose.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on December 23, 2019, 07:38:06 PM
Quote from: Huw the Poo on December 23, 2019, 04:07:03 PM
I've started Tau Zero by Poul Anderson.  Not bad so far, very nice prose.

If you can, read Anderson's "The Boat of a Million Years", another of his Hugo Award nominees.

His Time Patrol stories are also good, especially if you like a mix of history and sci-fi. Among my favorites are 'The Star of the Sea','Delenda Est', and The Sorrows of Odin the Goth'.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on December 23, 2019, 08:26:53 PM
Thanks mate.  If I get on with Tau Zero, and early indications are that I absolutely will, I will definitely add your suggestions to my reading list. O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 23, 2019, 08:31:39 PM
I'm reading: Great Pacific War: A History of the American-Japanese Campaign of 1931-33 by Hector C. Bywater

This alt-history was published in 1925 and sold very well during the early years of WW2.  I picked up a digital copy for $.99.

I like alt-histories a lot and am looking forward to this.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 23, 2019, 08:59:49 PM
Is it good enough to make you want to play War Plan Orange?  :coolsmiley:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on December 24, 2019, 01:27:57 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on December 23, 2019, 07:38:06 PM
Quote from: Huw the Poo on December 23, 2019, 04:07:03 PM
I've started Tau Zero by Poul Anderson.  Not bad so far, very nice prose.

If you can, read Anderson's "The Boat of a Million Years", another of his Hugo Award nominees.

His Time Patrol stories are also good, especially if you like a mix of history and sci-fi. Among my favorites are 'The Star of the Sea','Delenda Est', and The Sorrows of Odin the Goth'.
I'll second the recommendation of "Boat", and add his Harvest of Stars to the list.  I haven't read as much of Anderson's works as I should, but he truly is an outstanding writer. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on December 24, 2019, 04:42:11 AM
Roger that - thanks!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on December 24, 2019, 04:56:42 AM
Achtung Panzer!: The Development of Tank Warfare by Heinz Guderian

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AJ20NEC/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i1

Panzer Leader by Heinz Guderian

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KTBSD1L/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: demjansk1942 on December 24, 2019, 05:39:59 AM
Reading a book on Bruce Lee and a book called The Devil and Sonny List on.  Showtime had a great documentary on him last month.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on December 24, 2019, 08:11:17 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on Yesterday at 05:38:06 PM

    Quote from: Huw the Poo on Yesterday at 02:07:03 PM

        I've started Tau Zero by Poul Anderson.  Not bad so far, very nice prose.


    If you can, read Anderson's "The Boat of a Million Years", another of his Hugo Award nominees.

    His Time Patrol stories are also good, especially if you like a mix of history and sci-fi. Among my favorites are 'The Star of the Sea','Delenda Est', and The Sorrows of Odin the Goth'.

Poul Anderson was so prolific, it's hard to narrow down.  If you're interested in humor, Earthman's Burden with Gordon Dickson is a lot of fun.
If you like fantasy, Three Hearts and Three Lions.
If you like Norse, The Broken Sword.
If you like interstellar spies and space opera, the Dominic Flandry series is very engaging.  (his persona of Captain Ahab Whaling is a hoot.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on December 24, 2019, 08:26:28 AM
Operation Barbarossa by Alan Clark and War Without Garlands by Robert Kershaw.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on December 24, 2019, 09:57:12 AM
Quote from: besilarius on December 24, 2019, 08:11:17 AM
Quote from: Staggerwing on Yesterday at 05:38:06 PM

    Quote from: Huw the Poo on Yesterday at 02:07:03 PM

        I've started Tau Zero by Poul Anderson.  Not bad so far, very nice prose.


....
If you like interstellar spies and space opera, the Dominic Flandry series is very engaging.  (his persona of Captain Ahab Whaling is a hoot.)

The Dominic Flandry series is great.  It is one of the few science fiction book(s) I've kept since my youth.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on December 26, 2019, 11:47:01 PM
Finally got through the Napoleon book and started on Gettysburg: The Last Invasion by Allen Guelzo   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 27, 2019, 05:35:37 PM
The First Team books are awesome; I've read both of them a couple of times.  It's like you're raiding my library, Tripoli!

For my birthday a few days ago my father in law gave me a complete first edition of Churchill's Second World War series.  Stoked!  I just started The Gathering Storm, but I'm only reading bits of it as I finish up Catton.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 27, 2019, 05:59:07 PM
Yeah, I'll be getting to the Churchy WW2 books, too -- someday. Next year. They're in my collection already, just waiting.

I was not much of a fan of the "Gathering Storm" miniseries adaptation, which I have over in my DVD collection, but I fully expect it to be a lot better than that.  ::)

Trodding steadily now through Vol 3 of his History of the English Speaking Peoples, "The Age of Revolution". Runs from the reign of William III (aka William of Orange) through Napoleon; since I'm not reading multiple books concurrently right now, progress is progressing! Just started the reign of Queen Anne (William's daughter), and the zenith of the Duke of Marlborough (aka John Churchill, iirc. He's a Churchill anyway, as Churchill casually reminds his reader on occasion. ;) )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2020, 01:00:39 PM
Currently reading Brooklyn: The Once and Future City by Thomas J. Campanella.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: besilarius on January 05, 2020, 06:23:04 PM
Every Grog who reads this thread, there is good news!
It means you read books, and this lowers the chance of developing Alzheimers.

https://www.mic.com/articles/99408/science-has-great-news-for-people-who-read-actual-books
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2020, 07:12:12 PM
Nice. I'll live to 100 and enjoy some of it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on January 05, 2020, 07:27:30 PM
Actually that article was mainly about how e-books are inferior, brain development wise, to real books.  But in my case at least, that's tough shit.  If it weren't for the Kindle app on my phone I'd barely read at all; it's way more convenient than a real book, so although ideally I'd prefer to "keep it real", I'll take using my phone over not reading at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Huw the Poo on January 07, 2020, 12:03:44 PM
Well I'm struggling with Tau Zero.  I absolutely hate the characters and also the way they're written.  Absolutely not believable in the slightest, and I can only assume the author wasn't getting any when he wrote this book, because it's all the characters seem to think about.

At least it's short; I'm already 42% through it despite barely touching it, so I guess I'll go the distance and see if the second half can change my mind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on January 07, 2020, 12:43:05 PM
Quote from: besilarius on January 05, 2020, 06:23:04 PM
Every Grog who reads this thread, there is good news!
It means you read books, and this lowers the chance of developing Alzheimers.

https://www.mic.com/articles/99408/science-has-great-news-for-people-who-read-actual-books

Hope this is something that can be banked, as I read like a mofo up until my mid 20s.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 07, 2020, 01:20:32 PM
How old are you now?

Currently reading Brooklyn: The Once and Future City by Thomas Campanella. Got it as a Christmas gift - 100 pages in and it is great.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on January 07, 2020, 01:24:17 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 07, 2020, 01:20:32 PM
How old are you now?

Mid 40s.  Probably have used up all my "savings," by now, I'd guess.  Dang.  :-[
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on January 07, 2020, 01:45:10 PM
Currently reading Valley Thunder: The Battle of New Market and the Opening of the Shenandoah Campaign, May 1864 by Charles Knight. I am visiting there in two weeks and like to have an understanding of what I am about see.

https://www.amazon.com/Valley-Thunder-Opening-Shenandoah-Campaign/dp/1932714804
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on January 07, 2020, 03:33:11 PM
The US Army publishes some good guides and walking tours of various USCW battlefields.  Here's the one on New Market:
https://history.army.mil/html/books/070/70-24/cmhPub_70-24.pdf
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 07, 2020, 03:46:14 PM
Dammit Carl! Olde.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on January 07, 2020, 08:04:19 PM
Quote from: Tripoli on January 07, 2020, 03:33:11 PM
The US Army publishes some good guides and walking tours of various USCW battlefields.  Here's the one on New Market:
https://history.army.mil/html/books/070/70-24/cmhPub_70-24.pdf

Thank you! I will be reading this next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on January 16, 2020, 10:02:29 AM
Reading Stephen G. Fritz's excellent "Ostkrieg: Hitler's War of Extermination in the East". Just past after the Soviet counterattack after Operation Typhoon. A worthwhile book to read on the eastern front which focuses on the German decision making process and military issues faced by the Ostheer in the east.

I am looking at getting Robert M Citino's trilogy on the Wehrmacht after I finish reading this book:

Death of the Wehrmacht: The German Campaigns of 1942
Wehrmacht Retreats: Fighting a Lost War, 1943
The Wehrmacht's Last Stand The German Campaigns of 1944 - 1945
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 16, 2020, 12:47:15 PM
I read Ostkrieg a few years ago and it was very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 22, 2020, 09:05:30 AM
About 100 pages in to Imperial Twilight bu Stephen Platt, about the Opium War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 27, 2020, 11:19:10 AM
Starting "Cross of Iron" by Willie Heinrich. Still early into it and it has not gripped me yet. It is taking place on the Russian Southern Front in 43 (Kuban)...so it is not a happy setting. It does seem dark and hopeless for the Germans.

One annoying thing is that the book says both the Russians and the Germans are carrying "tommy guns"...it was translated in the 50s, so I am guessing the translator picked this term because of its familiarity.

The version I have is an English first edition hard cover. Wonderful feel and old book smell (1954).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 08, 2020, 01:07:41 PM
Just started Star Wars: Heir to the Empire (20th Anniversary Edition - 2011) by Timothy Zahn.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 08, 2020, 01:47:36 PM
I've not read it, but, all my Star Wars nerd friends say that is the Gold Standard.  And I believe it is considered canon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 08, 2020, 01:52:21 PM
Believe it or not I have never read any SW books...that's What I wanted to start here. Thrawn may be next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 09, 2020, 03:00:01 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on February 08, 2020, 01:47:36 PM
I've not read it, but, all my Star Wars nerd friends say that is the Gold Standard.  And I believe it is considered canon.
I don't know that it's still "canon" according to Disney (not that anyone should give a f*** what they decree), but Zahn's Thrawn trilogy definitely remains the benchmark against which all other Star Wars fiction is compared.  Hope you enjoy reading it, Gus
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 09, 2020, 11:57:15 AM
^First book in that trilogy, 'Thrawn' - is next for me 😎
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 09, 2020, 02:53:04 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 09, 2020, 11:57:15 AM
^First book in that trilogy, 'Thrawn' - is next for me 😎

You just started the Thrawn trilogy if you started Heir to the Empire. (There are other Thrawn series, too, but this is the trilogy that was originally avowed by Lucas to be the canonical sequel trilogy.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 11, 2020, 08:46:17 AM
wut
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 11, 2020, 07:36:54 PM
I've tried to get into Star Wars a few times but I just can't seem to get on board.  Maybe my nerd cred isn't high enough?

Anyway, I've been working through Ian Toll's The Conquering Tide the last few weeks.  I'm quite enjoying it; it's the same old story but told a different way.

I started reading my old copy of Costello's Pacific War as well, but I'm finding it somewhat slower going. 

Yes, I'm gearing up for a full play of War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition this year.  I shall finish one campaign before I die.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 12, 2020, 12:03:22 AM
Quote from: Gusington on February 11, 2020, 08:46:17 AM
wut
What is nowadays referred to as the Thrawn trilogy consists of three novels written by Timothy Zahn back in the 90's:  Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising, and The Last Command.  So since you've started Heir to the Empire, the book you want to read after that is Dark Force Rising, and then The Last Command. 

Zahn has also penned a more recent series of novels featuring Grand Admiral Thrawn (including one simply titled "Thrawn" in 2017), but they are separate from the original book trilogy he wrote almost 30 years ago. 



Quote from: Toonces on February 11, 2020, 07:36:54 PM
I've tried to get into Star Wars a few times but I just can't seem to get on board.  Maybe my nerd cred isn't high enough?
Heh.  I think you've got enough "cred" if you need it, Commander.  :P 

I don't know which Star Wars books you've tried getting into, but the writing quality tends to be all over the place -- for every Timothy Zahn and his Thrawn novels, you also have a Kevin J. Anderson and his novels featuring Admiral Daala (especially his anemic Jedi Academy trilogy) -- which obviously doesn't help matters.  It could very well be that Star Wars simply isn't for you, but a lot can depend on which books you tried reading. 



Quote from: Toonces on February 11, 2020, 07:36:54 PM
Anyway, I've been working through Ian Toll's The Conquering Tide the last few weeks.  I'm quite enjoying it; it's the same old story but told a different way.

I started reading my old copy of Costello's Pacific War as well, but I'm finding it somewhat slower going. 

Yes, I'm gearing up for a full play of War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition this year.  I shall finish one campaign before I die.
Nice.  O0 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on February 12, 2020, 04:25:07 AM
Quote from: Toonces on February 11, 2020, 07:36:54 PM
Yes, I'm gearing up for a full play of War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition this year.  I shall finish one campaign before I die.

Please post an AAR on the forums.

It will only extend the play time by approximately 10 years.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 12, 2020, 06:30:57 AM

Quote from: Toonces on February 11, 2020, 07:36:54 PM
Yes, I'm gearing up for a full play of War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition this year.  I shall finish one campaign before I die.

More likely, when your time comes, your kids can inherit the game-in-progress. Then they, in turn can pass it on to their kids. By the time it gets to your great-great-great grand kids it will be on at least turn five.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 12, 2020, 08:36:58 AM
Ah - the book I have queued next is Thrawn from 2017. Then one on Darth Plagueis. And I got a 4 book set of 'reference handbooks' on the Sith, the Jedi, Bounty Hunters and the Empire. Going through all of these while playing Jedi Fallen Order, which is very good so far.

Ironically I also have Ian Toll's The Conquering Tide on my to-read shelf. After my foray into Star Wars reading I'm going for a deep dive into Japanese history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 13, 2020, 11:14:41 PM
Putting aside "Cross of Iron"...  Having some difficulty with the premise of the story... 

Basically, a German platoon gets left behind to act as a rear guard in a retreat...and then has to trek 40 miles to find their regiment. On their way back, they manage to surprise and capture a female heavy mortar company....sexual tension...does the hard core Corporal Steiner (who runs the platoon) just decide to kill the prisoners? They lost me pretty much at the point where a regiment leaves a platoon behind to cover the retreat... 

Picking up "The Great Influenza" by John Barry.  My wife thinks it is because I watch too much news.  But I tend to like Louis Pasteur's explanation: "Fortune favors the prepared mind."

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Influenza-Deadliest-Pandemic-History/dp/0143036491/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2GSYQODCKV311&keywords=the+great+flu&qid=1581652998&sprefix=the+great+flu%2Caps%2C196&sr=8-1

Anyway, this is a book I read the last time there was a big virus outbreak.  Great history of 19th / early 20th century medicine. Also about how bad a pandemic can be. The Spanish Flu probably killed more people than all of the WWI and WWII military and civilian deaths combined (okay you could argue that the flu was actually spread by WWI, but that is nit picking).

What is amazing is that in Philadelphia, priests would drive horse drawn carts down the streets while calling out: "bring out your dead". They had mass graves with so many dead they just dumped them in. And to think there are people alive today who were alive then (sure, not many, and they were all babies and small children).

Anyway, I highly recommend the book.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 13, 2020, 11:15:51 PM
Quote from: Martok on February 12, 2020, 12:03:22 AM
Quote from: Gusington on February 11, 2020, 08:46:17 AM
wut
What is nowadays referred to as the Thrawn trilogy consists of three novels written by Timothy Zahn back in the 90's:  Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising, and The Last Command.  So since you've started Heir to the Empire, the book you want to read after that is Dark Force Rising, and then The Last Command. 

Zahn has also penned a more recent series of novels featuring Grand Admiral Thrawn (including one simply titled "Thrawn" in 2017), but they are separate from the original book trilogy he wrote almost 30 years ago.

Yeah, I haven't read those yet, but I gather they're retcon canonicity with the new baseline of whatever the hell Disney regards as canon now outside the films. Part of a project of bringing in the popular things from the old expanded universe, which sounds good in principle.

There's also an original Thrawn sequel duology written by Zahn (I don't recall the individual titles but the series itself is "Hand of Thrawn"), which I haven't read yet but I've heard is good. Been meaning to get around to that one eventually, after a reread of the original sequel trilogy someday... {sigh}

Anyway, yes, don't skip the two books after Heir to the Empire, Gus. All three are structured well, but the first is definitely not a standalone, though I don't get the impression there's a 20th anniversary out yet for the other two.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 13, 2020, 11:17:56 PM
Meanwhile, I have at last finished Churchill's "History of the English Speaking Peoples", which fulfilled my expectations in every way, including by being the very illustration of epic.  :notworthy:

Next up, after a short break for lighter fare, is his four volumes of "The World Crisis" -- Great War time!  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 13, 2020, 11:58:13 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on February 13, 2020, 11:17:56 PM
Meanwhile, I have at last finished Churchill's "History of the English Speaking Peoples", which fulfilled my expectations in every way, including by being the very illustration of epic.  :notworthy:

Next up, after a short break for lighter fare, is his four volumes of "The World Crisis" -- Great War time!  :bd:

I admire you for reading Churchill's book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 16, 2020, 06:49:14 PM
I finished Invasion Diary by Richard Tregaskis.  He also wrote Guadalcanal Diary and Vietnam Diary.

His style is to write about whatever he experienced as a war correspondent on a day to day basis.  Guadalcanal Diary was a huge commercial success since it was published in 1943 as one of the earliest, well written accounts of the war in the Pacific.  It is an excellent book.

Invasion Diary recounts the very end of the war in North Africa, the invasion of Sicily, and the invasion of Italy.  It is also excellent, but quite different.  It reads in a very similar way to Guadalcanal Diary.  The war is slowly marching up the toe of the Italian boot.  The allies have not yet reached the Cassio line. Then Richard gets a horrible brain injury from shellfire.  The book then goes into his initial inability to talk or move his left side.  He goes through several aid stations and hospitals and ends with his embarking on a hospital ship.  It is an excellent, but different from his earlier book because of his injury and writing about the military medical care he experienced.

I could not finish Vietnam Diary.  He uses the same writing technique - but a battle against an insurgency with no clear lines of battle becomes confusing when he writes of it.  He is able to move around a lot by plane and helicopter making the story much harder to follow.  His other two war books are much easier to follow because the battle is understandable from his first hand view.

I got both books for Kindle for $1.99 and they were well worth it.  He does not sugar coat what is going on.  He also really has no idea what is going on in the larger picture on a day-to-day basis - pretty much like the enlisted men and most of the officers.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 16, 2020, 06:59:24 PM
Quote from: airboy on February 16, 2020, 06:49:14 PM
I got both books for Kindle for $1.99 and they were well worth it.  He does not sugar coat what is going on.  He also really has no idea what is going on in the larger picture on a day-to-day basis - pretty much like the enlisted men and most of the officers.   

I regard this as being reflective of his fast transport around areas with no front lines in the Vietnam War, too: "confusing" and "much harder to follow"!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 16, 2020, 07:08:47 PM
Meanwhile, finished my quick entertainment read (Rusty Wilson released another book of Bigfoot short stories, up to his usual quality, all new material set in Montana; practically a quintessentially American writer at this point! -- not kidding!)

Then back to Churchill kicking off THE WORLD'S CRISIS! The first chapter recaps events in the history of English Speaking Peoples (so to speak ;) ) from 1870 onward with an eye to forming a context for the upcoming preliminaries to war in the early 1900s. I can already tell this will be different from his previous epic (which was written both before and after WW2), from how he intends to structure his narrative as much as possible on his personal account of events backed by correspondence he wrote, or was involved in issuing, plus texts released by other parties publicly: the first major one of these being Germany's resolution to build a second-rank fleet, i.e. a fleet stronger than France's and Russia's put together, thus affecting Britain's policy of aiming for a fleet stronger than the next two nations combined. Overtly, though without naming names, the German plan is to use such a fleet as a mutually assured destruction deterrent in the sense that they don't have to build a fleet capable of beating Britain. They only have to build a fleet requiring Britain to ruin her own naval lead to beat it! -- thus ensuring Britain will be very loathe to even challenge it.

In modern geek terms, that is one hell of a Yang Wen-Li strategy (from Legend of the Galactic Heroes). I had never even heard of that strategic rationale before! I'm not twenty pages in and I'm already learning new things!  :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on February 16, 2020, 08:30:38 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on February 16, 2020, 06:59:24 PM
Quote from: airboy on February 16, 2020, 06:49:14 PM
I got both books for Kindle for $1.99 and they were well worth it.  He does not sugar coat what is going on.  He also really has no idea what is going on in the larger picture on a day-to-day basis - pretty much like the enlisted men and most of the officers.   

I regard this as being reflective of his fast transport around areas with no front lines in the Vietnam War, too: "confusing" and "much harder to follow"!

My mistake.  Unclear writing.  He writes about the horror and randomness of combat in all of his books.  He does not write with a narrative and knows no more about the strategic situation than the average grunt or lower level officer.  This comment applies to all of his books, not just Vietnam Diary.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 17, 2020, 05:13:01 PM
Have just begun Sword of Kings, the 12th novel in the Saxon Tales series by Bernard Cornwell. 

I've really enjoyed these books, but hope Cornwell finishes them soon.  The man isn't getting any younger, and in terms of history/storyline, there's relatively little left to cover before the climax (the Battle of Brunanburh) anyway. 




Quote from: JasonPratt on February 16, 2020, 07:08:47 PM
Overtly, though without naming names, the German plan is to use such a fleet as a mutually assured destruction deterrent in the sense that they don't have to build a fleet capable of beating Britain. They only have to build a fleet requiring Britain to ruin her own naval lead to beat it! -- thus ensuring Britain will be very loathe to even challenge it.

In modern geek terms, that is one hell of a Yang Wen-Li strategy (from Legend of the Galactic Heroes). I had never even heard of that strategic rationale before! I'm not twenty pages in and I'm already learning new things!  :D
Really?  My impression is that's long been known among (at least some) historians that that was the raison d'être for the High Seas Fleet.  At the very least, I know I've read that somewhere before (and for as voracious a reader as you are, Jason, I'm mildly surprised you hadn't already as well :P ). 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 17, 2020, 08:23:15 PM
Ha! -- well, goes to show that I can read and hear a fair bit on a topic and yet never run across something widely known to others!  O0 But I'm relatively minor on WW1 studies; I don't think I've even read Guns of August and the prequel or sequel to that (though I do have them). I've read The Sleepwalkers, on the politics going into WW1, but as far as overview books that's it. Everything else I've picked up piecemeal from reading widely on other things, or watched some overview documentaries.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 17, 2020, 08:47:53 PM
You rang?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on February 18, 2020, 01:19:28 PM
While I was in Cuba, I listened to Red Storm Rising. First time using the audio-book format on my iPhone.
I love the format.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 19, 2020, 01:18:00 AM
Oy.  Have started going through my dad's books -- so many!  It includes a fair bit of WWII material; I wish I knew more about the authors to better separate the wheat from the chaff. 




Quote from: JasonPratt on February 17, 2020, 08:23:15 PM
Ha! -- well, goes to show that I can read and hear a fair bit on a topic and yet never run across something widely known to others!  O0 But I'm relatively minor on WW1 studies; I don't think I've even read Guns of August and the prequel or sequel to that (though I do have them). I've read The Sleepwalkers, on the politics going into WW1, but as far as overview books that's it. Everything else I've picked up piecemeal from reading widely on other things, or watched some overview documentaries.
Well I definitely can't claim to be an expert on WW1 either, or even an amateur enthusiast (that would be our resident Jewish Dawi :D ).  I guarantee I'm even more hit-and-miss in my knowledge than you are; I just happened to have come across that bit about the German fleet where you didn't.  I just take it for granted you're better read about most topics in general.  O:-) 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 19, 2020, 10:00:40 AM
Jewish Dawi. I like that. Not more than The Jewish Missile, though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 20, 2020, 09:56:44 AM
Well, Tolkien did base his dwarven language(s?) partly on Hebrew, so, y'know, there's that.

Up to August 1911 now, iirc.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 20, 2020, 10:15:50 AM
Just finished Heir to the Empire. Very good - felt a little drawn out for the last 100 pages.

Thinking of reading Darth Plagueis next.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 20, 2020, 02:51:46 PM
No! -- read sequel to Heir you must! Yes, yes, the trilogy finish!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 20, 2020, 03:09:36 PM
I don't have them yet - but they are in my Amazon cart.

I really want to read Plagueis, though...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 21, 2020, 12:41:23 AM
If I have to drive to upstate New York and hit you over the head with the other two books, I will.  :knuppel2: 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 21, 2020, 09:20:05 AM
I'm ready for you. In the interim, I cracked open the 4 box set of Star Wars guides I recently got - basically small texts on the Jedi, the Sith, Bounty Hunters and the Empire. Halfway through the Jedi one now. Very nice little text and it even smells good. Darth Plageuis is just a hair away from being cracked open as is Zahn's first book in the later series, Thrawn. Got some WH40k ready to go too - Titanicus, The Gothic War and the Rogue Trader omnibus. Been waiting to read these forever too. It's been a good winter for classic scifi reading for me after years of neglect!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on February 23, 2020, 04:59:53 AM
Yes, that sounds like a pretty solid list.  O0 


I'll issue just one warning about Thrawn -- or for that matter, any of Zahn's later novels featuring Thrawn (the character) -- and then I'll shut up:  If you read any of those books before reading Dark Force Rising and The Last Command, you'll definitely come across a number of spoilers (both major and minor) in regards to the original Thrawn trilogy.  Not sure how (or even if) that might affect your enjoyment of the other two books in the trilogy when you get around to them, but I would've felt derelict in my duty if I didn't at least give you a heads-up. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 23, 2020, 12:17:10 PM
What's up with the nerd love-fest in this thread?   :nerd:

;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 23, 2020, 02:35:10 PM
Thanks Martok - I still have time to squeeze in the last two books in that first Thrawn series before I get sci-fi burnout and move back to historical reading, etc.

And welcome Commander, we've been waiting 😎
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on February 23, 2020, 05:16:49 PM
If you're in a sci fi mood, try Leviathan's War by James S. A. Corey.  An ice hauler out by Saturn finds a black op ship with a deadly virus.  A small crew from the hauler grabs the ship and broadcasts its find and starts a war between Earth, Mars, and the Belt.  Meanwhile, a detective in the Belt gets a secret mission to find a missing heiress and his pursuit leads him to losing his job.  At loose ends, he continues to pursue the search for the heiress.  It's the first book of a trilogy.  I haven't read the final two.  But the first is shaping up pretty good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 23, 2020, 08:50:53 PM
^ A very good series.

I started it a while ago and next thing I knew, it was an acclaimed tv show ("The Expanse") with 3 seasons on Syfi (now on Amazon Prime for season 4).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on March 15, 2020, 12:25:20 PM
Reading "Collapse of the Third Republic", by William Shirer who is famous for "The Rise and Fall of Third Reich".

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QGXK6ZW?pf_rd_r=67P2YH4V7J9G5DCG1AJG&pf_rd_p=ab873d20-a0ca-439b-ac45-cd78f07a84d8

"Collapse" attempts to explain how the Germans were able take France down in six weeks in May-June 1940.

I am about 1/3 in, and the book has spent a great deal of time discussing the fault lines within the French government, military and social foundations. France had many of the issues we see today in the US. Particularly around tribalism in politics, and a monied class using its influence to not pay taxes. A distant warning from history perhaps? Probably not, there were also many differences, particularly the fact that as a parliamentary system, the French changed governments constantly, making it hard to get things done. 

A bit of a hard slog for me, since there is so much politics.  It still is interesting to see the other side of events such as Hitler's occupation of the Rhineland and Czechoslovakia. There really was not much backbone in either French or UK responses to Hitler before Poland. Still the book is teaching me a great deal that I did not know, so I will finish it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 15, 2020, 12:41:40 PM
^ I've started Rise and Fall a couple of times, but I always bog down about 1/2 way and have to start over.  It's very good, though; I'd like to get through it at some point.

As I mentioned in the China thread, I've been re-reading The Stand again.  This is probably the 30th time I've read it, so no plot surprises, but I just enjoy the journey.  It's interesting how much King got right in the first 1/3, seeing how the Coronavirus activity is playing out for real.

I'm also working through The Rules of the Game again, this time reading the entire book and not skipping the boring middle, and I've been working through Gibbon's Decline and Fall for about a month now, and making real progress.  Now that is tough reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 15, 2020, 01:20:22 PM
About to start The Passage by Justin Cronin.

https://amzn.to/33i1Y5a
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 15, 2020, 02:04:06 PM
^ That sounds pretty interesting.  I just borrowed it for my Kindle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 15, 2020, 02:06:46 PM
Yeah I thought it appropriate for right now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on March 15, 2020, 08:11:11 PM
Added it to my ever-growing wish list
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 15, 2020, 08:55:20 PM
If you want to read something about an engineered medical apocalypse with zombies, read Under a Graveyard Sky.  I have read the series several times and it is excellent.  The audio books are also very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on March 16, 2020, 08:48:41 AM
Love in the Time of Corona by Gabriel García Márquez (2020 edition)  8).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on March 16, 2020, 10:48:33 AM
Earth Abides is also a good post civilization book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on March 25, 2020, 10:31:54 AM
Quote from: airboy on March 15, 2020, 08:55:20 PM
If you want to read something about an engineered medical apocalypse with zombies, read Under a Graveyard Sky.  I have read the series several times and it is excellent.  The audio books are also very good.
I think I will do that. Ever since I took the audio book version of Red Storm Rising with me to Cuba, I am hooked on this format.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 25, 2020, 10:46:26 AM
Have to admit I am not enjoying The Passage. Not because of the post-apocalypse (well maybe a little) but it is overly detailed and really unnecessarily long. It's about 850 pages long and feels like it could have been half that length. Struggling to finish. Won't be reading the sequels. Oh well...next!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 25, 2020, 12:36:51 PM
I finished up Vol. 1 of Churchill's The World's Crisis recently, and before starting Vol.2 I've started Vol.5 on the East Front, since it serves as a giant one-volume appendix of what was going on over there across the other volumes. So I'll continue on there until the end of 1914, and then take Vol.2 in batches going forward. Kindle makes this easier than it otherwise would be (though I own all the books physically, too).  8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on March 25, 2020, 12:42:15 PM
I'm starting "A Journal of the Plague Year" by Defoe.  I'm interested to see if there are any insights into our current situation.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 25, 2020, 02:10:36 PM
^I've been looking into reading that now too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: demjansk1942 on March 25, 2020, 04:43:33 PM
I am almost done with Longerich's biography of Hitler at 1000 pages.  Then it's into a few Chernobyl books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on March 25, 2020, 04:56:28 PM
Bought the first three of Osprey's "Modern African Wars" series and "The Anglo-Afghan Wars 1839–1919".

I also started reading Frank Herbert's "Dune" and I'm about 140 pages into that 700 page novel.

And still slowly reading "The Victorian City: Everyday Life in Dickens's London" by Judith Flanders for something different.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 26, 2020, 12:54:09 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on March 25, 2020, 04:56:28 PM
Bought the first three of Osprey's "Modern African Wars" series and "The Anglo-Afghan Wars 1839–1919".

I also started reading Frank Herbert's "Dune" and I'm about 140 pages into that 700 page novel.

And still slowly reading "The Victorian City: Everyday Life in Dickens's London" by Judith Flanders for something different.

Is this your first read through?  I would like to know your thoughts if that is true.  And then again when you are done.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 26, 2020, 12:58:06 PM
I think I've tried Dune three times.  Man, I just cannot get into it for some reason.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on March 26, 2020, 02:24:30 PM
First read-through of "Dune" for me. Decided to read the book after watching the 1984 film a few times and liking it more each time I watch it.

Makes it easier to read the tome after watching the movie to get knowledge of the main characters. 140 or so pages into it, so far so good. But I'm taking a break from it for the past two weeks while I read the Osprey books.

To me, it would be harder to understand the book without watching the movie first as there is a lot of complicated things in the story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 26, 2020, 02:54:20 PM
Quote from: Toonces on March 26, 2020, 12:58:06 PM
I think I've tried Dune three times.  Man, I just cannot get into it for some reason.

Dune starts very slow.  Herbert tries to capture the mood of a religious Jihad in the making plus explaining many of the factions.  It is very good, but he takes a lot of space to develop his ideas.  Plus all of the new words he invented makes is harder to follow.

I just bought a kindle copy for $1.99 last week on sale.  I'd replaced my original paperback twice due to allergies. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 26, 2020, 04:09:26 PM
Quote from: Toonces on March 26, 2020, 12:58:06 PM
I think I've tried Dune three times.  Man, I just cannot get into it for some reason.
That's okay; it's definitely not for everyone. 

I only got around to reading Dune a few years ago; and while I'm glad I did, I don't know that I'd bother picking it up again (or read the sequels).  I can see its appeal, but I don't think I'd be able to immerse myself in Herbert's universe. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on March 27, 2020, 07:16:28 AM
Re-reading the last 10 or so novels in the Dresden series in anticipation of the next 2 books being released this year.

Also need to re-read Oathbringer by Sanderson as he is releasing book 4 of the Stormlight Chronicles this year also.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 27, 2020, 08:47:54 AM
It's good to see I am not the only one who had difficulty with Dune.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 27, 2020, 10:28:15 AM
I never read it.

*runs*
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on March 27, 2020, 12:45:52 PM
Dune is a classic and giant of the genre in a lot of circles.  And I don't dispute their assertion.  It's just not for me.  But, I have read it.  And the next two or three sequels just to make sure. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on March 27, 2020, 12:57:12 PM
Quote from: jamus34 on March 27, 2020, 07:16:28 AM
Also need to re-read Oathbringer by Sanderson as he is releasing book 4 of the Stormlight Chronicles this year also.
At some point, I need to sit down and read his Stormlight novels.  I enjoy Sanderson's writing, even if it is a bit dense at times. 




Quote from: MetalDog on March 27, 2020, 08:47:54 AM
It's good to see I am not the only one who had difficulty with Dune.
Not in the least; I know a number of folks who weren't enthralled with it.  For all that it's a cornerstone of the genre, Dune seems to be a bit more hit-and-miss.  But those who enjoy the book, seem to *really* enjoy it -- there doesn't seem to be much in-between. 




Quote from: Gusington on March 27, 2020, 10:28:15 AM
I never read it.

*runs*
Heh.  No shame in that, although I would still recommend giving it a go at some point.  I'm not sure why, exactly, but I could definitely see you appreciating Dune. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 27, 2020, 02:41:08 PM
Just about done with The Passage. A disappointment. Maybe I will reread someday.

Most likely will start Kaigun: Strategy, Tactics and Equipment of the Imperial Japanese Navy 1887-1941 by David Evans and Mark Peattie:

https://smile.amazon.com/Kaigun-Strategy-Technology-Imperial-1887-1941-ebook/dp/B01DRYEMH2/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Kaigun&qid=1585337989&s=books&sr=1-2

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on March 27, 2020, 08:38:58 PM
 Read Dune many years ago. Took a while to get into it but in the end I enjoyed it but not enough to read the sequels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on March 27, 2020, 09:28:54 PM
Quote from: nelmsm on March 27, 2020, 08:38:58 PM
Read Dune many years ago. Took a while to get into it but in the end I enjoyed it but not enough to read the sequels.

I read the first two sequels.  They seemed to get exponentially worse every iteration.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: jamus34 on March 28, 2020, 11:22:47 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 27, 2020, 12:57:12 PM
Quote from: jamus34 on March 27, 2020, 07:16:28 AM
Also need to re-read Oathbringer by Sanderson as he is releasing book 4 of the Stormlight Chronicles this year also.
At some point, I need to sit down and read his Stormlight novels.  I enjoy Sanderson's writing, even if it is a bit dense at times. 

Yeah it's tough because of the Cosmere; that said Sanderson has quickly become my favorite current / modern author. His books are well written, the plot line are usually tight and he's usually pretty good not tripping over himself in canon.

The Mistwalker series is also really good. If anything the 2nd season (for lack of a better word) has much more interesting characters. Wayne especially.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on March 28, 2020, 11:25:18 PM
Finally sunk my teeth into Berlin: The Downfall by Antony Beevor.  Had it sitting on my TBR list for ages, and dear lord I can't put it down!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 29, 2020, 10:48:21 AM
^Great book. Read Beevor's Stalingrad if you haven't already too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on April 01, 2020, 08:39:02 AM
Quote from: Gusington on March 29, 2020, 10:48:21 AM
^Great book. Read Beevor's Stalingrad if you haven't already too.

That was a great book.  Very gruesome and depressing details of the conditions suffered by the men surrounded at Stalingrad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: RedArgo on April 01, 2020, 09:47:47 AM
Quote from: nelmsm on March 27, 2020, 08:38:58 PM
Read Dune many years ago. Took a while to get into it but in the end I enjoyed it but not enough to read the sequels.

Exactly how I felt.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 01, 2020, 10:09:30 AM
Definitely gruesome and depressing, W8. Probably not the best read for right now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on April 07, 2020, 11:52:16 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on March 27, 2020, 12:45:52 PM
Dune is a classic and giant of the genre in a lot of circles.  And I don't dispute their assertion.  It's just not for me.  But, I have read it.  And the next two or three sequels just to make sure.


;D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 07, 2020, 12:38:08 PM
Just finished "The Collapse of the Third Republic; An Inquiry into the Fall of France" by William Shirer

Shirer was a journalist, but despite this, I found his description of the military campaign to be very good and compelling.

France was betrayed at several levels:

The most senior French generals were just outmaneuvered by the Germans. They never saw Manstein's "sickle cut" through the Ardennes until it was too late. By that time they understood what was happening, they had lost the cream of the French army, and most of the BEF was destroyed or had fled through Dunkirk. 

The military campaign was basically lost in the first two weeks, but it lingered for another four weeks. During that time, Weygand the Commander in Chief of Armed Forces began to agitate for an Armistice. He actively suppressed efforts move forces to North Africa to continue the fight.

The French Prime Minister, Reynaud wanted to fight on. He had support from the military in North Africa and the Governments of the UK and US. But he was betrayed by political schemers led by Laval, a former PM with a political axe to grind.

Laval was an opportunist, hoping for power in a French run province for Hitler, licking up German table scraps. The premise was that Britain would fall as well, so they might as well get on Hitler's good side before Britain could. Laval pulled the strings that set up an authoritarian coup led by Petain. But Laval was the puppet master, pulling Petain's strings.

After the war, Laval was executed, and Petain was given a commuted death sentence. I used to think these sentences were harsh. But now that I understand how they both betrayed their country in its time of most need, I feed the sentences were justified. 

Anyway great book.  But 1/2 political, and 1/2 military.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on April 17, 2020, 09:26:19 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on April 07, 2020, 12:38:08 PM
Just finished "The Collapse of the Third Republic; An Inquiry into the Fall of France" by William Shirer

Shirer was a journalist, but despite this, I found his description of the military campaign to be very good and compelling.

France was betrayed at several levels:

The most senior French generals were just outmaneuvered by the Germans. They never saw Manstein's "sickle cut" through the Ardennes until it was too late. By that time they understood what was happening, they had lost the cream of the French army, and most of the BEF was destroyed or had fled through Dunkirk. 

The military campaign was basically lost in the first two weeks, but it lingered for another four weeks. During that time, Weygand the Commander in Chief of Armed Forces began to agitate for an Armistice. He actively suppressed efforts move forces to North Africa to continue the fight.

The French Prime Minister, Reynaud wanted to fight on. He had support from the military in North Africa and the Governments of the UK and US. But he was betrayed by political schemers led by Laval, a former PM with a political axe to grind.

Laval was an opportunist, hoping for power in a French run province for Hitler, licking up German table scraps. The premise was that Britain would fall as well, so they might as well get on Hitler's good side before Britain could. Laval pulled the strings that set up an authoritarian coup led by Petain. But Laval was the puppet master, pulling Petain's strings.

After the war, Laval was executed, and Petain was given a commuted death sentence. I used to think these sentences were harsh. But now that I understand how they both betrayed their country in its time of most need, I feed the sentences were justified. 

Anyway great book.  But 1/2 political, and 1/2 military.   

I've read Berlin Diary and enjoyed it thoroughly.  I have never been able to complete the Rise and Fall of the Third Reich - too much horror and evil people.

I'd never heard of this book and put it on my wishlist.  He is a good writer - but tends to go on too long about things.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 22, 2020, 01:09:12 PM
Reading Ancient Siege Warfare by Paul Kern.

https://amzn.to/2RYA9dE
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on April 25, 2020, 10:39:11 PM
The Swamp Fox: How Francis Marion Saved The American Revolution by John Oller. Should be a good one.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on April 26, 2020, 12:08:12 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on April 07, 2020, 12:38:08 PM
Just finished "The Collapse of the Third Republic; An Inquiry into the Fall of France" by William Shirer

Shirer was a journalist, but despite this, I found his description of the military campaign to be very good and compelling.

France was betrayed at several levels:

The most senior French generals were just outmaneuvered by the Germans. They never saw Manstein's "sickle cut" through the Ardennes until it was too late. By that time they understood what was happening, they had lost the cream of the French army, and most of the BEF was destroyed or had fled through Dunkirk. 

The military campaign was basically lost in the first two weeks, but it lingered for another four weeks. During that time, Weygand the Commander in Chief of Armed Forces began to agitate for an Armistice. He actively suppressed efforts move forces to North Africa to continue the fight.

The French Prime Minister, Reynaud wanted to fight on. He had support from the military in North Africa and the Governments of the UK and US. But he was betrayed by political schemers led by Laval, a former PM with a political axe to grind.

Laval was an opportunist, hoping for power in a French run province for Hitler, licking up German table scraps. The premise was that Britain would fall as well, so they might as well get on Hitler's good side before Britain could. Laval pulled the strings that set up an authoritarian coup led by Petain. But Laval was the puppet master, pulling Petain's strings.

After the war, Laval was executed, and Petain was given a commuted death sentence. I used to think these sentences were harsh. But now that I understand how they both betrayed their country in its time of most need, I feed the sentences were justified. 

Anyway great book.  But 1/2 political, and 1/2 military.   


Got it on sale yesterday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 27, 2020, 11:57:07 AM
Quote from: airboy on April 26, 2020, 12:08:12 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on April 07, 2020, 12:38:08 PM
Just finished "The Collapse of the Third Republic; An Inquiry into the Fall of France" by William Shirer
Got it on sale yesterday.

Interested to hear your thoughts on it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 27, 2020, 12:30:26 PM
I know that several folks have mentioned "Shattered Sword: The Untold Story of the Battle of Midway". I am just getting around to reading it.  About 1/3 in and loving it.

https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Sword-Untold-Battle-Midway/dp/B07QFB2BLX/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2M15XTILFMN54&dchild=1&keywords=shattered+sword&qid=1588008422&s=books&sprefix=shattered+%2Cstripbooks%2C211&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Sword-Untold-Battle-Midway/dp/B07QFB2BLX/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2M15XTILFMN54&dchild=1&keywords=shattered+sword&qid=1588008422&s=books&sprefix=shattered+%2Cstripbooks%2C211&sr=1-2)

For a wargamer, it is a great book since it goes into organizational and technical details of the battle that are often glossed over in more general histories.  For example, the step by step discussion of how the Japanese crews rearmed aircraft...brilliant stuff.

I love the fact that the book goes to great length to bring the Japanese point of view. In fact, the book is almost a mirror image, national point of view wise, to other English language books on the subject. I particularly like that the author uses Japanese prime sources such as Japanese carrier flight logs, and secondary sources such as the Japanese Official Records; the "Senshi Sosho".

I spent part of my youth as an exchange student at a Japanese university. The school had a copy of the Japanese Official Records (over 100 volumes). For a class, I wrote a paper on the invasion of Hong Kong and used the Official Records extensively. I always wondered why US authors rarely seem to use this deep resource (it does not seem to have been fully translated is probably the best answer). So I was very happy to see "Shattered Sword" use it. The only other book in English that I have found that uses the Official Records, is Paul Dull's, "A Battle History of the Imperial Japanese Navy".

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GQSY6K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GQSY6K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

If "Shattered Sword" has a downside, it is that is almost too focused on the point of view of Japanese carrier operations. The book freely admits this. But the effect is that it is only a great "second" or "third" book to read about Midway (ie. read one of the more general histories first). Someone who is not familiar with the battle who is only reading "Shattered Sword" as his first Midway book, may wonder just what the Americans were thinking at certain points of the battle.



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on April 27, 2020, 10:42:00 PM
Been working through Beevor's Berlin book piecemeal, but I've got Stalingrad next on my list.  O0

Also, I just got around to reading The Old Man and the Sea for the first time, which got me started on a big maritime/nautical reading kick.  I'm emailing local bookstores looking for Patrick O'Brien's Master & Commander for starters.

Aside from the obvious Melville classic (which I've recently picked up and begun reading as well), what are some Grogs suggestions for great maritime lit?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 27, 2020, 11:08:37 PM
Quote from: al_infierno on April 27, 2020, 10:42:00 PM
Been working through Beevor's Berlin book piecemeal, but I've got Stalingrad next on my list.  O0

Also, I just got around to reading The Old Man and the Sea for the first time, which got me started on a big maritime/nautical reading kick.  I'm emailing local bookstores looking for Patrick O'Brien's Master & Commander for starters.

Aside from the obvious Melville classic (which I've recently picked up and begun reading as well), what are some Grogs suggestions for great maritime lit?

If you haven't already, check out C.S. Forester. There is of course the entire Horatio Hornblower series (from Midshipman to Admiral)...I have always been more of a Hornblower guy than a Aubrey - O'Brien guy.

Lesser known are Forester's various other maritime novels that I have enjoyed such as "The Good Shepherd",  "The African Queen", "The Ship", "The Captain from Connecticut".  "The Good Shepherd" is the basis for a major motion picture with Tom Hanks called "Greyhound".  Here is the trailer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQNDIjrGpS0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQNDIjrGpS0)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on April 27, 2020, 11:20:26 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on April 27, 2020, 12:30:26 PM
I know that several folks have mentioned "Shattered Sword: The Untold Story of the Battle of Midway". I am just getting around to reading it.  About 1/3 in and loving it.

https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Sword-Untold-Battle-Midway/dp/B07QFB2BLX/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2M15XTILFMN54&dchild=1&keywords=shattered+sword&qid=1588008422&s=books&sprefix=shattered+%2Cstripbooks%2C211&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Sword-Untold-Battle-Midway/dp/B07QFB2BLX/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2M15XTILFMN54&dchild=1&keywords=shattered+sword&qid=1588008422&s=books&sprefix=shattered+%2Cstripbooks%2C211&sr=1-2)

For a wargamer, it is a great book since it goes into organizational and technical details of the battle that are often glossed over in more general histories.  For example, the step by step discussion of how the Japanese crews rearmed aircraft...brilliant stuff.

I love the fact that the book goes to great length to bring the Japanese point of view. In fact, the book is almost a mirror image, national point of view wise, to other English language books on the subject. I particularly like that the author uses Japanese prime sources such as Japanese carrier flight logs, and secondary sources such as the Japanese Official Records; the "Senshi Sosho".

I spent part of my youth as an exchange student at a Japanese university. The school had a copy of the Japanese Official Records (over 100 volumes). For a class, I wrote a paper on the invasion of Hong Kong and used the Official Records extensively. I always wondered why US authors rarely seem to use this deep resource (it does not seem to have been fully translated is probably the best answer). So I was very happy to see "Shattered Sword" use it. The only other book in English that I have found that uses the Official Records, is Paul Dull's, "A Battle History of the Imperial Japanese Navy".

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GQSY6K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GQSY6K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

If "Shattered Sword" has a downside, it is that is almost too focused on the point of view of Japanese carrier operations. The book freely admits this. But the effect is that it is only a great "second" or "third" book to read about Midway (ie. read one of the more general histories first). Someone who is not familiar with the battle who is only reading "Shattered Sword" as his first Midway book, may wonder just what the Americans were thinking at certain points of the battle.

Agree with all of your observations.  I would start with Incredible Victory by Lord as a general book.  Then Shattered Sword is an excellent book from the Japanese side.

The IJN of the 1930s had the most elite naval aviation pilot program in the world.  But they could train very few people.  When they lost most of their pilots after Midway and Coral Sea - their training program was way too slow to fill the slots.  US training was not as good, but was much faster.  Japanese pilot doctrine did not give their pilots much in the way of down time - and they burned out and got shot down on the land based air side.  US also made a much greater effort at pilot recovery than Japan did.  All of this led to the US getting a huge lead in pilot quality/quantity after the Solomon Islands attrition battles.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on April 28, 2020, 03:56:46 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on April 27, 2020, 11:08:37 PM


If you haven't already, check out C.S. Forester. There is of course the entire Horatio Hornblower series (from Midshipman to Admiral)...I have always been more of a Hornblower guy than a Aubrey - O'Brien guy.

Lesser known are Forester's various other maritime novels that I have enjoyed such as "The Good Shepherd",  "The African Queen", "The Ship", "The Captain from Connecticut".  "The Good Shepherd" is the basis for a major motion picture with Tom Hanks called "Greyhound".  Here is the trailer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQNDIjrGpS0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQNDIjrGpS0)

Thanks for the tip!  I've heard of him and the Hornblower series but haven't gotten around to checking it out.  It's on my list now O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: RedArgo on April 28, 2020, 04:46:44 PM
Just finished reading Incredible Victory and Good Shepard, both very good.  I'll be interested to see how Good Shepard translates to the big screen since a lot of the main characters dialog is in his head/narrator.

I've read the whole Hornblower series 2 or 3 times and the first 4 Aubrey books, I like both, but Hornblower is my favorite, feels a little easier to read for me.

Shattered Sword is also very good.  The Battle of Midway was my favorite WWII battle as a kid, so I always like getting more information about it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on April 28, 2020, 07:35:19 PM
What's the best approach to the Hornblower series?  First book going forward?  Or is it like the Bond series where you don't really need to read them in order?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: RedArgo on April 28, 2020, 08:49:08 PM
I'd say it is better to read them in order as some characters come and go through the series and his career builds, but they aren't so complicated you'd be lost if you didn't read them in order.  When I first started reading them it was just what ever my dad had in the house, so I know I missed entire books and it didn't diminish my enjoyment.

I read them most recently on my Kindle and at least at that time the books weren't available on Amazon, so got them here enetpress.com (http://enetpress.com).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 28, 2020, 09:02:17 PM
Quote from: RedArgo on April 28, 2020, 08:49:08 PM
I'd say it is better to read them in order as some characters come and go through the series and his career builds, but they aren't so complicated you'd be lost if you didn't read them in order.  When I first started reading them it was just what ever my dad had in the house, so I know I missed entire books and it didn't diminish my enjoyment.

I read them most recently on my Kindle and at least at that time the books weren't available on Amazon, so got them here enetpress.com (http://enetpress.com).

+1 on reading in order. But also agree that you can jump in and out of the series and still enjoy them.

I have read the entire series about 5 times over the last 30 years, and it still holds my attention.

If you want to read one, just to see if you would like them, I suggest "Ship of the Line"

I did not know about enetpress  very nice to see that...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on April 29, 2020, 01:12:41 AM
For a decidedly lighter read, I've finally gotten around to cracking open my copy of The Autobiography of James T. Kirk: The Story of Starfleet's Greatest Captain, as "edited" by David A. Goodman.  While I didn't anticipate the book being bad, I'm still I'm enjoying it far more than I thought I would. 




Quote from: al_infierno on April 28, 2020, 07:35:19 PM
What's the best approach to the Hornblower series?  First book going forward?  Or is it like the Bond series where you don't really need to read them in order?
If you read the books "in order", I recommend doing so in chronological order, as opposed to the order in which the books were written/released.  So start with Mr. Midshipman Hornblower, rather than Beat to Quarters

Good series, by the way.  I really need to purchase it for myself (I borrowed them from the library the first time).  O0 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on April 29, 2020, 09:34:10 PM
I read the Hornblower books so many times through the end of High School I knew them back to front.  My Dad had all of Forrester's work in hardback.  Unfortunately, by the time my parents died I could no longer read them because of paper deterioration & allergies.

Not as good, but the same sorts of things in SF are the Honor Harrington books by Weber and the Leary books by David Drake. 

I prefer Drakes because Harrington is too perfect in all of her skills and her enemies are always utterly awful folks.  I mentioned this to David Weber over a game of Hearts at Liberty Con and he said he hears this about the character all of the time - and that the opinion was wrong, wrong, wrong because she does things that violate the normal rules of war for a 20th/21st century Western naval commander.  I thought his defense was off - but I did not go into it further.  Told him he should really like me since I had more than a dozen of his sole or co-authored books in hardback.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: RedArgo on April 30, 2020, 12:13:08 AM
I really enjoyed the Harrington main series, I'm glad he finally finished it.  I haven't read any of the side Harrington stories though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on April 30, 2020, 08:37:05 PM
I'm working my way through D'Este's Decision In Normandy. Pretty interesting so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on May 02, 2020, 03:50:43 PM
I've got Mr. Midshipman Hornblower on the way from Amazon as we speak.   O0  No doubt it'll be a while 'til I've got book in hand, considering the delays at the 'zon.

I finished The Old Man and the Sea a few days back, and instead of writing a review I figured this Ancestor quote from Darkest Dungeon summarizes it perfectly:

(https://i.imgur.com/90yhZWO.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 07, 2020, 11:44:43 AM
About to begin Hadrian's Wall by Adrian Goldsworthy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 08, 2020, 11:40:40 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on April 07, 2020, 12:38:08 PM
Just finished "The Collapse of the Third Republic; An Inquiry into the Fall of France" by William Shirer

Shirer was a journalist, but despite this, I found his description of the military campaign to be very good and compelling.

France was betrayed at several levels:

The most senior French generals were just outmaneuvered by the Germans. They never saw Manstein's "sickle cut" through the Ardennes until it was too late. By that time they understood what was happening, they had lost the cream of the French army, and most of the BEF was destroyed or had fled through Dunkirk. 

The military campaign was basically lost in the first two weeks, but it lingered for another four weeks. During that time, Weygand the Commander in Chief of Armed Forces began to agitate for an Armistice. He actively suppressed efforts move forces to North Africa to continue the fight.

The French Prime Minister, Reynaud wanted to fight on. He had support from the military in North Africa and the Governments of the UK and US. But he was betrayed by political schemers led by Laval, a former PM with a political axe to grind.

Laval was an opportunist, hoping for power in a French run province for Hitler, licking up German table scraps. The premise was that Britain would fall as well, so they might as well get on Hitler's good side before Britain could. Laval pulled the strings that set up an authoritarian coup led by Petain. But Laval was the puppet master, pulling Petain's strings.

After the war, Laval was executed, and Petain was given a commuted death sentence. I used to think these sentences were harsh. But now that I understand how they both betrayed their country in its time of most need, I feed the sentences were justified. 

Anyway great book.  But 1/2 political, and 1/2 military.   

I got bogged down in his explanations for the collapse of the 3rd Republic starting right after the collapse of Napoleon III. 

He kept veering into weird tangents.  Dreyfus - a Jewish scapegoat for someone else leaking French military secrets.  Lots of people lied about it.  This was horrible.  OK - I agree with the author.  He suffered horribly.  The French kept blowing their military security to the Germans.  OK - good points.

Some Catholic orders did not support the 3rd Republic.  They were banned by the State, the State was angry they could not name Catholic Bishops, they exiled huge numbers of priests and forbade even more to have anything to do with French education.  This is "good" by the author except that many could not get over the actions of the 3rd Republic and held a grudge.

Napoleon & Napoleon III - horrible dictators.  Anyone who was supporting them or a return of the monarchy is horrible, horrible.

The Dictators - well, they fought hard for France and anyone who did not support this is horrible.

He kept this weird dance up for at least 100 pages.  Anything supporting the 3rd Republic - Excellent (ban their papers, exile them, interfere with religion - all in the name of "progress."  Dreyfus - lying and punishing an innocent man is bad, bad, bad - unless they are enemies of the 3rd Republic when it is a good thing.

And he kept repeating himself.  This book is 1,082 pages - so be forewarned. 

I'm not contradicting anything Arizona Tank wrote about - because I could not get past the horrible moral "ends justify the means - except they kept France from uniting" without proper editing.

If you decide to get this one, skip to at least the end of WW1.  I might try to read this again some year, but I also got bogged down in Rise & Fall of the Third Reich which could have had one page out of every two cut without losing much.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Myrmidon on May 09, 2020, 06:43:17 AM
Oh man, a book thread!!! (Then realized there's an entire book forum page).

Currently working through Mary Beard's SPQR.  So far, has been a great mind opener about the birth of the Republic, and challenges what I thought I knew about the subject.  Only about a quarter through so far, but I anticipate me having some new perspectives on the topic by the time I finish.

My current audio book is Wars of the Roses by Dan Jones, which really brings to life the conflict and what led up to it.  For any interested in the topics, the same author's more recent published books The Templars and Crusaders do a great job of approaching the topics academically but in a very accessible and easy to read(or listen) manner.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 11, 2020, 01:37:21 PM
Now reading Roman Warfare by Adrian Goldsworthy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on May 12, 2020, 12:13:36 AM
Just started Warrior of the Altaii by Robert Jordan.  It was the first book he wrote, but not published until last year. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 16, 2020, 04:25:44 PM
Now reading Caligula - The Mad Emperor of Rome by Stephen Dando Collins.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on May 16, 2020, 05:16:27 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 16, 2020, 04:25:44 PM
Now reading Caligula - The Mad Emperor of Rome by Stephen Dando Collins.

You have been on a Rome foray lately.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on May 16, 2020, 05:39:00 PM
Finally reading through "Swords Around A Throne" by  John R. Elting. I bought it many years ago, but just read different sections and never really from start to finish. Great information about the Grande Armee.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on May 16, 2020, 05:40:05 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 16, 2020, 04:25:44 PM
Now reading Caligula - The Mad Emperor of Rome by Stephen Dando Collins.
How is the book? That piques my interest.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 16, 2020, 06:19:04 PM
Airboy yes, I have a giant stack of ancients reading that I am currently picking through. Not bored of the era yet so I'll keep going. It's helped that the last 2-3 books were short and only took a day or two to finish.

WallyWorld - I am 75 pages in. The book is ok but the author has some habits that annoy me so far - he injects modern comparisons to historical ideas and he does some 'telling instead of showing.' There are also some typos that get irritating.

Don't know if those things would bother you.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on May 18, 2020, 08:26:29 AM
Just finished "TopGun" by Dan "Yankee" Pedersen.

Overall it was a really fantastic book. Dan was one of the original founders of TopGun and its first CO. He had a long career in naval aviation, serving from the 1950s and into the early 90s. My favorite parts of the book were the anecdotal stories, particularly the highlights of his flying throughout the cold war. I think the 1950s through the 1970s is my favorite period of military aviation. He gives a lot of insight into how the Navy functions and makes decisions. I also learned a lot about the problems our aviators faced, and eventually overcame, during the Vietnam War, in large part due to the lessons that were being taught in Miramar. Dan flew many aircraft during his career and he talks a lot about the nuances of everything he flew, including the F4D Skyray, F3H Demon, F5, A4, F4 Phantom and finally the F-14, although by the time the Tomcats started filling out the squadrons in the fleet, Dan's flying career was mostly over and he was commanding ships at sea.

Those guys really were living legends...the cowboys of their time. Dan is definitely "Old School" and he spends the last chapter of the book addressing the Navy's growing over-reliance on technology and stealth. TopGun's philosophy was that it is the man in the cockpit that wins the fight, not the machine. Dan has grave concerns about the state of TopGun these days and the impact budget cuts have had keeping aircraft flying and pilots with the flight hours they need to win. Dan is not a fan of the F35 and I was really interested to read that there is a real push to get the F-14s in service again. That would just be awesome!

Anyway, if you're interested in military aviation and fighter combat, I'd say this is a must read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 18, 2020, 02:07:02 PM
I just finished "Case Red: The Collapse of France" by Robert Forczyk.

Very much a military history, there is only a perfunctory discussion of politics. But it has great detail about the battles, weapons, and organizations in the last weeks of the Battle of France.

The book fills a gap left in most other histories..  What happened after Dunkirk? 

Fall Gelb (Case Yellow) was the famous "sickle cut" that drove through the Ardennes into Flanders and on to the sea, cutting off the cream of the French and the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) in Brussels. This book addresses Fall Gelb only at a high level as background. The book really picks up after the Germans stopped at the sea and then transitioned to Fall Rot (Case Red), the Battle for France.

This period had been a gap in my personal understanding of the campaign, and this book did a great job in filling it. I was surprised to learn that once the "shock" of Fall Gelb was over, the French began to adapt their tactics and gave the Germans a run for their money, with fierce counter-attacks. The French also had the best tank on the field, the Char I bis, that often created "tank panic" among the German troops when it appeared on the battlefield.

But in the end, the Germans outnumbered and out gunned the French. The generals (British, French and German) contributed to the defeat through their insubordination against their governments. Guderian disobeyed orders to slow down and wait for the infantry during Fall Gelb, this kept the pressure up on France. In mid-June, British general Brook began withdrawing British forces without authorization from the British Government, or any notification to the French; this increased French distrust of the British. The French general Weygand openly defied efforts by the French Prime Minister Reynaud to pull back to North Africa to not surrender and continue the fight.

The book does a good job of portraying both sides of the battle, but tends to lean slightly toward the allies. Still, Rommel comes off as an excellent division commander, and Guderian and von Rundstedt play large roles in the book as well.

The level of detail is good given the scope of the book. It reminds me of one of one of David Glantz' works...and that is a very good thing.

https://www.amazon.com/Case-Red-Collapse-Robert-Forczyk/dp/1472824466/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=case+red&qid=1589825960&rnid=2941120011&s=books&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Case-Red-Collapse-Robert-Forczyk/dp/1472824466/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=case+red&qid=1589825960&rnid=2941120011&s=books&sr=1-1)   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 18, 2020, 02:22:13 PM
Top Gun and Case Red sound good. I've had Case Red in my Amazon cart forever and recently added Case White (Fall of Poland).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on May 18, 2020, 03:56:39 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on May 18, 2020, 02:07:02 PM
I just finished "Case Red: The Collapse of France" by Robert Forczyk.
Excellent book! I read it last year.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on May 18, 2020, 05:40:48 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 18, 2020, 02:22:13 PM
Top Gun and Case Red sound good. I've had Case Red in my Amazon cart forever and recently added Case White (Fall of Poland).

I've read Robert Forczyk's book Where the Iron Crosses Grow: The Crimea 1941-1944 and if he covers White and Red in the same fashion I'm buying them both!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 18, 2020, 05:45:37 PM
Where the Iron Crosses Grow has some very solid reviews too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on May 18, 2020, 05:52:32 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 18, 2020, 05:45:37 PM
Where the Iron Crosses Grow has some very solid reviews too.

I really learned a lot in that book. I picked it up at the Raleigh airport in a (now out of business) used book store for $10. I was looking for a topic I knew little about and it caught my eye.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 18, 2020, 07:00:03 PM
Quote from: twitter3 on May 18, 2020, 05:40:48 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 18, 2020, 02:22:13 PM
Top Gun and Case Red sound good. I've had Case Red in my Amazon cart forever and recently added Case White (Fall of Poland).

I've read Robert Forczyk's book Where the Iron Crosses Grow: The Crimea 1941-1944 and if he covers White and Red in the same fashion I'm buying them both!

I'm right there.  I bought both Case White and Where the Iron Crosses Grow this morning.  They are in the queue...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 18, 2020, 07:12:15 PM
I was surprised that Case Yellow and its setup ended up being a little more than half the book. It sure seemed like the same level of detail as Case Red following. (Case Red itself starts well into chapter 6, somewhere within 61% of the book per my kindle copy.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Giappy on May 18, 2020, 08:12:23 PM
Sengoku Jidai. Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu: Three Unifiers of Japan
By Danny Chaplin

So far so good
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 18, 2020, 09:10:32 PM
^Hmm I'll have to look into that one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 21, 2020, 07:53:48 PM
About to begin Persian Fire by Tom Holland, just in time for the Rise of Persia DLC for Field of Glory: Empires :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 22, 2020, 11:05:40 AM
Just finished "Fifty Nine in '84" by Edward Achorn

The title refers to Charles "Old Hoss" Radbourn's baseball pitching record of winning 59 games in the 1884 season for the Providence Grays. This record still stands today and will likely never be broken. The reason is that Radborun pitched full games, and started almost every game after July 1884. At one point, he even pitched five days in a row. In those days, managers did very little to save their pitchers arms. Today, hardly any MLB pitcher ever pitches a full game and would never start two games in a row.

Old Hoss may have another set of records...according to the author, Radbourn is probably the first and second man to be photographed flipping his middle finger at the camera.

Baseball at the time was at the same time very familiar, but also different. For the most part, a spectator today would immediately recognize the game. Some differences were: 1) pitchers were in a "box" not a mound, and threw from 10 feet closer to plate. 2) fielders and the catcher did not have gloves...broken, mangled fingers were just part of the job, 3) over hand pitching had just been made legal in the National League. But most pitches were side-arm tosses, with the occasional under-hand pitch, 4) balls were rarely replaced during the course of a game. In one case, the Providence manager stopped the game for 10 min while he got a ladder to pull the ball off of the roof over the stands. 5) ball players and crowds were rough around the edges. Providence's other ace pitcher, Charlie Sweeney was drunk half-way through the 1884 season, got into an on-field altercation with his manager, and walked out of the game after about seven innings. His team finished (and lost) the game with only eight players. Crowds would often wait outside the ballpark and attack players and umpires they did not like. 6) balls were harder and heavier, with less bounce. Home runs were infrequent. 6) the bunt had just been invented and was considered unmanly. 7) because there were no field lights, umpires would call the game at darkness, with the score being locked in from the last full inning.

The book is well written, and really brings the period to life. After a while, I felt like the author could have been talking about baseball in the modern era. The book is also a portrait of 1880s Providence. A town that lost its MLB franchise in 1885 and has not seen it again.

If you like baseball, this is a great book.

https://www.amazon.com/Edward-Achorn/dp/0061825875/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3RZB1SLQKN86Z&dchild=1&keywords=fifty+nine+in+84&qid=1590161658&sprefix=fifty+ni%2Caps%2C236&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Edward-Achorn/dp/0061825875/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3RZB1SLQKN86Z&dchild=1&keywords=fifty+nine+in+84&qid=1590161658&sprefix=fifty+ni%2Caps%2C236&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on May 23, 2020, 02:48:41 PM
^ Sounds very interesting! Thanks for the tip.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 27, 2020, 09:21:39 AM
Just finished Churchill's semi-autobiographical tome on 1915 of WW1 (Vol 2 of The World Crisis, depending on which publication is being read), plus the 1915 chapters of his Eastern Front volume.

As might be expected, he focuses mostly on the Dardenelle operation in 1915, or operations rather. Less so in his 1915 chapters for the East Front, but it has its topical connections.

The East Front book, as I may have said before, takes 70% of its absolute length to reach the end of 1914, and by the end of 1915 I'm at 90% done. I haven't checked the table of contents (in an amazing display of sheer laziness), but I don't have any clear idea why or how he's going to cover the East Front separately from 1916 through to even 1917. I suspect a good portion of what happens in late 1917 and afterward on the East Front is covered in his "Aftermath" main volume. But still, that's nearly two more years of warfare to cover in a 10% remaining space that also includes everything in the endnotes (not very extensive) and the appendices (moreso).  ???

Anyway, the edition I'm reading combines the other main volumes except Aftermath into the final tome which I started yesterday.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 27, 2020, 09:27:09 AM
I just finished, 'The Swamp Fox: How Francis Marion Saved the American Revolution'. Great little book of Marion's campaign, his battles, ambushes, tactics and method of operations. I now have a great deal of respect for him and his contribution to the revolution.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2020, 05:13:25 PM
Both the Churchill series and the Swamp Fox books sound good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on May 27, 2020, 05:18:14 PM
Reading The Northern Wars by Robert Frost to give me some background on my game of  Wars of Succession as Sweden.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 27, 2020, 05:19:35 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 27, 2020, 05:13:25 PM
Both the Churchill series and the Swamp Fox books sound good.

I've enjoyed it a lot, and especially in context of his volumes of the History of English Speaking Peoples which segues into pre-WW1 setup. It's a lot like playing a mod of Imperator Rome that starts well before the rise of Rome (though focusing on that in relation to Britain's emergence into 'history' per se), goes through the timeframe of that game into another mod up into a mod for CKII starting just before the fall of Rome, then through CKII and EUIV and Vicky2 into HOI3 or 4... with one guy playing the Island and its peoples and commenting on how the game is going.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2020, 07:51:32 PM
^You should work in a publishing company's marketing department!

Twitter3, I read The Northern Wars by Frost years ago. I remember enjoying it a lot and wishing there were more books in English on the subject. I think I read it along with Robert Massie's Peter the Great, one of my favorite books of all time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on May 27, 2020, 08:17:50 PM
Quote from: Gusington on May 27, 2020, 07:51:32 PM
... Robert Massie's Peter the Great, one of my favorite books of all time...

Just finished reading it for the third time several months ago. Definitely one of my favorites.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 27, 2020, 08:23:01 PM
Massie is probably my favorite historical author. Dreadnought may be my favorite history book ever.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Airborne Rifles on May 27, 2020, 09:53:25 PM
Agreed. Love Massie as a historian and Peter the Great is a masterpiece.

I first read Peter the Great when my family moved to Moscow after the collapse of the Soviet Union. It was really entertaining to read Massie's footnoted that began with "those who have been to Russia will note that this has not changed much since the 18th century." He was right! In many ways Peter's Russia is still the Russia of today.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on May 28, 2020, 08:31:44 AM
Thanks for the tips on Massie and his book on Peter the Great. I have added it to my list of books to read! I did read Peter Englund's book on the Battle of Poltava and really enjoyed it.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 28, 2020, 09:35:02 AM
Trying to remember if I read that book on Poltava...I don't think so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 31, 2020, 09:19:28 PM
About to begin Dividing the Spoils - The War for Alexander the Great's Empire by Robin Waterfield.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 31, 2020, 10:33:03 PM
Just finished "Case White: The Invasion of Poland" by Robert Forczyk.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NJ426D3/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NJ426D3/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0)

Very much a military history of the conflict, with just a sprinkling of the political and social parts.

The Poles were outnumbered and outgunned. Poland never had a chance of course...but nevertheless, the Poles mostly fought hard, and in some cases, such as the Battle of Kutno (Bzura) they even gave the Germans a bit of a bloody nose. Once the Soviet Union attacked however, it was all over.

One eye opening thing for me, was the participation of German Army (Heer) units in atrocities; mass execution of civilians and prisoners. I had always assumed that it was the SS and Einsatz Truppen who were at fault, but the killing was also done by regular troops. There were some in the high command (General Blaskowitz for example) who tried to stop or slow it down, but they were frustrated by the regime...with Hitler eventually issuing a general pardon.

Another thing was how ill-prepared the Germans were for the campaign. Goebbels propaganda made it seem like the blitzkrieg was all efficiency running like clockwork. But the reality was that the Germans really hadn't figured out logistics prior to campaign. If the fighting had gone longer, the Germans would have run into severe difficulty.

I got this book because I really enjoyed the author's other book, "Case Red: The Fall of France". Case White did not disappoint. The authors prose is direct and to the point, the way I like my military histories. However some folks may find this too terse, and may want a bit more background color in their books.

I have now moved on to the authors other book, "Where the Iron Crosses Grow", the Crimean Campaign. I am about 1/3 in and enjoying it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on June 01, 2020, 02:30:28 AM
Thanks for the recommendation, AT.  I'd been eying Case White for a while, but your description made me take the leap O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 01, 2020, 09:33:02 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on May 31, 2020, 10:33:03 PM
Another thing was how ill-prepared the Germans were for the campaign. Goebbels propaganda made it seem like the blitzkrieg was all efficiency running like clockwork. But the reality was that the Germans really hadn't figured out logistics prior to campaign. If the fighting had gone longer, the Germans would have run into severe difficulty.

More specifically, they were running into severe difficulties by the time Stalin eventually agreed to honor his treaty and step in on the other side (to save Poland from the eeeeevil Nazis who obviously and clearly just started WW2, of course. ;) ) The Luftwaffe was basically out of bombs, and the ground forces badly needed the east thrust formations untied to help finish off Warsaw before France and the UK could get going. Stalin's assault freed up enough Nazi ground forces to put the ball over the goal. (Though I don't recall it helping with the bomber load, aside from allowing more concentration of the few remaining explosives onto Warsaw.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 04, 2020, 05:32:06 PM
Over the holiday weekend, the History Channel had a three part mini-series about U.S. Grant. I enjoyed it a great deal (except for the far too numerous commercials). The mini-series was written by Ron Chernow (also, interestingly Leonardo Dicaprio was one of the producers).

So I decided to get Mr. Chernow's book "Grant"

At over 1000 pages it is a bit of a monster...in a good way.

I am only a few chapters in, but having a good time with it.

https://www.amazon.com/Grant-Ron-Chernow-ebook/dp/B06W2J89PV/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=grant&qid=1591309378&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Grant-Ron-Chernow-ebook/dp/B06W2J89PV/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=grant&qid=1591309378&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 05, 2020, 09:32:17 AM
Hmm, sounds like something I might be interested in.  Please let us know if it holds up! 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Black Robin on June 05, 2020, 12:41:51 PM
Good to know your interests.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 05, 2020, 12:45:48 PM
I'm reading Carpe Jugleum in the Diskworld series.  I'm rereading Keegan's WW1 and reading an excellent book on the Korean War.

Unfortunately, the news in the real world is so bad that I'm reading highly escapist stuff right now.  Listening to Hard Magic by Larry Correia when I drive.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 14, 2020, 01:13:30 PM
Dividing the Spoils was disappointing. Skimmed through another book after that on the Ptolemies which was basically a book on their Egyptian law codes and property rights :/ Oh well, they can't all be winners.

About 100 pages in on Book 4 of Harry Sidebottom's Warrior of Rome series, The Caspian Gates. One of my favorite historical series and a nice palette cleanser after the last two.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 18, 2020, 04:08:43 PM
I've about finished "Attack on Pearl Harbor" by Alan Zimm.  It is a detailed operational assessment of the attack and defense. 

Perhaps the most interesting thing in it is that a 3rd Wave attack on the oil storage was not feasible with the amount and type of ordinance left to the Japs after the first two waves.  It also hammered Japanese fighter doctrine and how successful the handful of US Fighters were that managed to reach the air.  It contends that if the US Planes had not been packed wingtip to wingtip that the losses would have been severe to the Japanese - even given the success of the first wave attacks.

I'd always thought Japan blundered badly by not attacking the oil storage - but he gave a very detailed analysis on how easy the tanks are to build and the number of tanker trips needed to refill the system.  He thinks Nimitz purposefully lied about the potential oil losses and problems that would have ensued to keep secret the underground storage of oil being built & filled at the time of the attack - something that was top secret.

Zimm also thought the dive bombers performed very poorly compared to the level bombers and the torpedo planes.

The book is sort of dry in large stretches - but he makes his points with a lot of data and I cannot spot obvious holes in his analyses - but I'm not an expert in any of this beyond how he is employing probability theory which he has done well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Anguille on June 18, 2020, 04:38:09 PM
Reading:

Fondation by Isaak Asimov...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 18, 2020, 04:41:14 PM
^Nice...one of my favorite books of all time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 18, 2020, 07:40:24 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 18, 2020, 04:08:43 PM
I've about finished "Attack on Pearl Harbor" by Alan Zimm.  It is a detailed operational assessment of the attack and defense. 

Perhaps the most interesting thing in it is that a 3rd Wave attack on the oil storage was not feasible with the amount and type of ordinance left to the Japs after the first two waves.

Back on an anniversary of the attack several years ago, Dad picked up a documentary somewhere (no doubt cheap) which turned out to be VASTLY much better than I was expecting; and one of the points I hadn't heard before was that going after the fuel depot would have been pointless with their remaining ammo. (If I recall correctly, the Japanese understood this and backed off intentionally, according to the doc.) Aside from their ammo being unable to crack the hardened casings very well, the facility was designed to contain and minimize any leakage and fire.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 18, 2020, 09:39:25 PM
Quote from: airboy on June 18, 2020, 04:08:43 PM
I've about finished "Attack on Pearl Harbor" by Alan Zimm.  It is a detailed operational assessment of the attack and defense. 

Alan Zimm also dipped his toes into the computer wargame market in the early 90s and produced probably the most accurate WWII naval surface battle game ever. The ballistics and penetration for each shot was individually calculated. The game was called: Action Stations!  I always hoped he would follow the game up as the years passed, but he never did.

https://www.mobygames.com/game/dos/action-stations (https://www.mobygames.com/game/dos/action-stations)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 18, 2020, 09:59:46 PM
Quote from: Anguille on June 18, 2020, 04:38:09 PM
Reading:

Fondation by Isaak Asimov...

Quote from: Gusington on June 18, 2020, 04:41:14 PM
^Nice...one of my favorite books of all time.

Ditto.  I'd be reading it right this instant if my library had a copy in.  I will keep looking when I go. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 19, 2020, 03:02:21 AM
Quote from: Anguille on June 18, 2020, 04:38:09 PM
Reading:

Fondation by Isaak Asimov...
Cheers, Anguille!  I'm in the midst of my annual re-reading of the Foundation trilogy myself.  Am currently reading the 2nd book, Foundation and Empire
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Anguille on June 19, 2020, 03:15:17 AM
Quote from: Martok on June 19, 2020, 03:02:21 AM
Quote from: Anguille on June 18, 2020, 04:38:09 PM
Reading:

Fondation by Isaak Asimov...
Cheers, Anguille!  I'm in the midst of my annual re-reading of the Foundation trilogy myself.  Am currently reading the 2nd book, Foundation and Empire.

So far, i only have this one (i think. Have to check)...will get the next two as soon as i finish this one. I have an edition of '57. Great reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2020, 09:51:43 AM
The series is almost legendary. But I've only read the first book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: RedArgo on June 19, 2020, 10:56:51 AM
Foundation series is great, I just picked it up on my Kindle to replace the real books that didn't make our move to AZ.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2020, 12:20:56 PM
How many books are there total in the series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Labbug on June 19, 2020, 12:34:52 PM
At first 3 books.  I think 2 prequels and 2 sequels were added later.  So 7 books for the Foundation Series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 19, 2020, 02:25:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 19, 2020, 09:51:43 AM
The series is almost legendary. But I've only read the first book.

They go downhill fast.  You chose wisely.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2020, 03:23:08 PM
Thanks Labbug. They get poor, eh Airboy? Maybe I'll just reread the first again.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 19, 2020, 05:40:07 PM
Reading the trilogy is required.  Then you get to make your own mind up.  However, I generally agree with Airboy.  I didn't care much for anything after the trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 19, 2020, 06:57:37 PM
Finished Churchill's followup supplementary work on the East Front of WW1, part of his The World Crisis series, earlier this week; having caught up to the 1917 revolution in his main volume at that time.

Is it necessary reading? ...eh, yes and no? It helps flesh out a lot of context preliminary to the War, and adds more detail to what was going on up to Russia's fall in 1917 (where it abruptly ends since at that point the East Front per se no longer exists). Extra information on the campaigns in the east, is much sparser, having been covered tolerably well in his main volumes; which is reflected in the prior reports I gave of where various topics arrived at percentages through the book (e.g. 1917 starts 96% through the book by linecount, and that includes end matter.)

Chugging along now at around 75% through the volume covering the end of the war (1917-1918), with the Aftermath volume still to go. The Germans just shot their final wads attempting to blast the British off mainland Europe and, failing that, to break the French lines -- rescued in a stirring portrait by the arrival of the first main American forces. (After this I plan to re-read the collected debriefing notes of German impressions of Americans during the War and the subsequent temporary occupation.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 19, 2020, 09:20:08 PM
^How many pages is all of this in total? 1000s?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 20, 2020, 04:23:32 PM
Depends on the edition; the texts are arranged into volumes with some variation between printings.

The version I'm reading on Kindle (can't find my print versions, packed up somewhere apparently), totals as follows:

Vol 1 (up thru 1914): 272 pages
Vol 2 (1915): 623 pages
Vol 3 (1916-1918): 619 pages
Vol 4 (Aftermath): 465 pages
Vol 5 (East Front addendum): 517 pages

Grand total (for this edition) 2496 pages.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on June 20, 2020, 04:49:45 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on June 20, 2020, 04:23:32 PM
Depends on the edition; the texts are arranged into volumes with some variation between printings.

The version I'm reading on Kindle (can't find my print versions, packed up somewhere apparently), totals as follows:

Vol 1 (up thru 1914): 272 pages
Vol 2 (1915): 623 pages
Vol 3 (1916-1918): 619 pages
Vol 4 (Aftermath): 465 pages
Vol 5 (East Front addendum): 517 pages

Grand total (for this edition) 2496 pages.

For those who are intimidated by the size of Churchill's various multi-volume histories, I would note that he is pretty readable, especially in comparison to the typical writer of the era
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 20, 2020, 05:59:01 PM
I am a dedicated reader but 2500 pages!! DAYUM.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 20, 2020, 07:05:48 PM
Don't worry, it's mostly politics and logistics.  >:D

Consequently, I found his (larger) History of the English Speaking Peoples, which is considerably less biographical (except when it comes to his ancestor Marlborough ;) ), more entertaining to read, just for being more narrative-driven. The World Crisis is at least 30% memos from Churchill to other people, plus at least another 10% memos from other people to Churchill.

There are some fine turns of prose along the way -- moreso than I recall in the preliminary series, actually! The themes of the Great War call forth his poetic side more often.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on June 21, 2020, 07:29:51 AM
Having finished Top Gun by Dan Pedersen, I'm now reading Top Gun Days by Dave "Bio" Baranek. This is a great companion to Dan's book. Dan was a senior aviator by the time he formed Top Gun and wrote about the school from the perspective of its founder and as an instructor. Dave was a young flight officer when he attended Top Gun as a student, so his book is much more about the actual flying in Top Gun from the perspective of being in the class. Dave's book is also interesting because he was a RIO, and there is not a lot of literature out there about this critical role in naval aircraft. Finally, Dan's flying days preceded the Tomcat, whereas, Dave flew almost exclusively in them so Top Gun Days is all about the F14.

I can't tell you how rewarding it is to read about technical flying and actually understand the terminology, technology and tactics from flying DCS. I think this speaks volumes about the efficacy of this sim. Speaking of DCS, it was recently announced that Dave Baranek is working on a Tomcat campaign for DCS called Zone 5. Very much looking forward to this. I've seen some videos of him on YouTube. He even did a DCS tomcat walk around. Seems like a super nice guy.

https://forums.eagle.ru/showthread.php?t=276338 (https://forums.eagle.ru/showthread.php?t=276338)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 21, 2020, 12:39:46 PM
If you were to go back and do it all again, would you train to become a USMC pilot?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on June 21, 2020, 02:06:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 21, 2020, 12:39:46 PM
If you were to go back and do it all again, would you train to become a USMC pilot?

It has been my lifelong dream to be a pilot. I honestly don't think I have what it takes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 21, 2020, 02:55:46 PM
Didn't know that. New JH trivia.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on June 21, 2020, 04:42:54 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on June 21, 2020, 02:06:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 21, 2020, 12:39:46 PM
If you were to go back and do it all again, would you train to become a USMC pilot?

It has been my lifelong dream to be a pilot. I honestly don't think I have what it takes.

Nothing wrong with being an amateur pilot. If I can do it, you certainly could. You made it through USMC boot camp and law school. I doubt I would have managed to get through marine boot. I'm lucky to have made it through USN boot on time without being held back!

I'm proud to have earned my PPL (under the stern gaze of my best friend/instructor). I quit my training partway through my instrument rating when I realized that I didn't think I had what it takes to go pro with it and couldn't justify going further into debt if I wasn't making it a career like Tom did.

I haven't flown in almost 20 years but I'll always have those memories.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on June 21, 2020, 07:18:56 PM
Quote from: Ubercat on June 21, 2020, 04:42:54 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on June 21, 2020, 02:06:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 21, 2020, 12:39:46 PM
If you were to go back and do it all again, would you train to become a USMC pilot?

It has been my lifelong dream to be a pilot. I honestly don't think I have what it takes.

Nothing wrong with being an amateur pilot. If I can do it, you certainly could. You made it through USMC boot camp and law school. I doubt I would have managed to get through marine boot. I'm lucky to have made it through USN boot on time without being held back!

I'm proud to have earned my PPL (under the stern gaze of my best friend/instructor). I quit my training partway through my instrument rating when I realized that I didn't think I had what it takes to go pro with it and couldn't justify going further into debt if I wasn't making it a career like Tom did.

I haven't flown in almost 20 years but I'll always have those memories.

I mean that I don't think I have what it takes to be a fighter pilot. Getting my PPL would be a walk in the park...an expensive one, but certainly a challenge I could manage.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 22, 2020, 12:53:00 AM
Quote from: Gusington on June 19, 2020, 12:20:56 PM
How many books are there total in the series?
Quote from: Labbug on June 19, 2020, 12:34:52 PM
At first 3 books.  I think 2 prequels and 2 sequels were added later.  So 7 books for the Foundation Series.
Correct. 

I personally enjoy all 7 books, but they are undeniably of varying quality.  Regardless, there's no question that the original trilogy is a must-read (as Metaldog pointed out). 




Quote from: Jarhead0331 on June 21, 2020, 02:06:08 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 21, 2020, 12:39:46 PM
If you were to go back and do it all again, would you train to become a USMC pilot?

It has been my lifelong dream to be a pilot. I honestly don't think I have what it takes.
???

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 22, 2020, 10:14:56 AM
Just started A Box of Sand: The Italo-Ottoman War 1911-1912 - The First Land, Sea and Air War by Charles Stephenson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 22, 2020, 10:33:14 AM
I'll admit to heresy - the entire plot of Foundation is dumb.

Unexpected events are forever occurring.  Don't believe me - take the easiest thing possible to predict: sports.  We have invariant rules, known players and coaches, huge amounts of data - yet how many predictions from the beginning of the season are correct at the end of the season?

Go into something more complicated: interest rates, birth rate, economic activity, wars & insurgencies, plagues, etc....  and the predictions are even more off.

The idea that a group could predict future history and crisis points even a decade out is nuts.  Just one simple example - I know of nobody who predicted that the US would become a net oil exporter in 1990, nobody.  Yet it happened and it shook up an awful lot of stuff.  The fact that it occurred under the hyper stupid regulatory regime of the Obama administration is even weirder.

Then Asimov put the Mule character in a further disrupted the story. 

Yes, I realize it is fiction.  Yes, I know lots of people love it.  And yes, I enjoyed the first book.  But even as a plot premise in a fiction book it was laugh out loud funny.

Don't let this stop you from reading it.  If you enjoyed it, I'm happy for you.  But it is based on an utterly wild concept that many believe "is just over the horizon."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 22, 2020, 12:16:35 PM
Part of reading fiction is a suspension of what you know to be true.  The joy, for me, of reading fantasy and sci fi is connecting to my inner child.  Who marveled at feats of magic, heroism, and science.  It's for that that I keep reading.  There is comfort in believing that there is someone to tell them what to do in times of crisis.  Seldon appears in videos.  Another guy might have a book of instructions.  You don't have to believe the guy in the video any more than the guy who had the book written.  But, if they bring you comfort, then, by all means, go to it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on June 22, 2020, 01:27:03 PM
Obama was President in 1990?   :-"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on June 22, 2020, 01:34:07 PM
Quote from: Ubercat on June 22, 2020, 01:27:03 PM
Obama was President in 1990?   :-"

I think he means nobody in 1990 would have predicted something that occurred during the Obama presidency.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 29, 2020, 02:20:15 PM
I finished Ron Chernow's "Grant" and I very much enjoyed it.

https://www.amazon.com/Grant-Ron-Chernow/dp/0143110632/ref=sr_1_1?crid=11L08AWDVPPO9&dchild=1&keywords=chernow+books&qid=1593452364&sprefix=chernow+%2Caps%2C197&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Grant-Ron-Chernow/dp/0143110632/ref=sr_1_1?crid=11L08AWDVPPO9&dchild=1&keywords=chernow+books&qid=1593452364&sprefix=chernow+%2Caps%2C197&sr=8-1)

It is primarily a biography, and therefore less of a military history. However, all of Grants major battles were covered in detail.

The book makes a very good case promoting Grant's usually underappreciated military genius. Grant's strength lay in logistics and army management. In the Overland Campaign, US Grant commanded five Federal armies, from Virginia to the Red River in Louisiana. Using the telegraph Grant was very involved with the daily dispositions, logistics and activities of each of his armies. Grant (with assistance from Sherman) was the architect of the grand strategy to use those armies to strangle and cut up the South. This contrasts with Lee who only commanded one army, mostly operating out of Virginia.

An example of Grant's logistical wizardry was his end run around Lee, pulling out of Cold Harbor and moving to Petersburg. Grant managed to outmaneuver Lee by moving 100,000 men out of Cold Harbor, then building a 2,100 foot pontoon bridge over the James River in 8 hours, getting his army across without being detected, and then attacking Petersburg before Lee could react. Subsequently Grant established his headquarters at City Point, Virginia, on the James River and used it as a base of supply. This river port would become the third busiest port in the United States for the rest of the war.

The book dispels the myth that Grant was just "lucky" or that he had so many resources he could not possibly fail. After all, six Union generals, who had the same resources, failed before him.

The book cheers Grant for his initiatives with Voting Rights, Civil Rights and the crushing of the first iteration of the Klan. But it does not spare him his mistakes and faults. The infamous "General Order No. 11" is the most prominent example (during the Vicksburg Campaign, Grant, bedeviled by dishonest contractors, did a terrible thing and directed his wrath at the Jewish community. He issued a directive to remove Jewish families from the occupied territory in Kentucky and Tennessee. Lincoln rescinded the order before much damage was done.) But Grant learned from his mistakes, and in this case, as President he did more than any other President up to that point to support the Jewish community. 

Grant also had a trusting nature, and as a result, he was very slow to recognize dishonesty among those he knew. The result were several large scandals during his presidency. Afterwards he himself lost all of his wealth in a ponzi scheme.

Some interesting things I learned from the book.

-After the war, Grant became good friends with John Mosby, the Confederate guerilla cavalry leader. Mosby supported unifying the nation, and he actively campaigned for Grant's second term.

-Immediately after the War, Grant wanted to send 60,000 men under Phil Sheridan into Mexico, to oust the French and the Emperor Maximillian.  Grant was a strong believer in the Monroe doctrine and wanted Europeans out of Mexico. However, Grant could not get the Secretaries of State and War to agree with him on military action. Still Grant continued to push for an invasion until Maximillian was captured and executed.

-Grant did more than any other 19th century President to advance Civil and Voting rights. He used all of his Federal power to ensure free voting in the South. He signed the Civil Rights Act of 1875 giving equal access to transportation and commercial and public facilities. It was unfortunately struck down by the Supreme Court in 1883.

-The US almost went to war with Britain in the early 1870s over reparations for British support of the CSS Alabama, a commerce raider that was finally sunk by the USS Kearsage in June, 1864. Grant suggested the use of arbitration to solve the dispute and he was widely hailed as a peacemaker after that.

-After his presidency, Grant took a two-year world tour. Visiting Europe, Egypt, India, Thailand, Hong Kong, China and Japan among many other places. He even conducted some unofficial diplomacy; mediating a territory dispute between Japan and China.

-Grant had an on-again, off-again relationship with Sherman in the post war years. Sherman was not nearly as progressive as Grant and did not agree with Grant's efforts to promote voting and civil rights.

-In 1880, Grant came very close to being nominated by the Republicans for a third term as President.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 29, 2020, 04:40:24 PM
My reading on Grant's campaigns was that he was a very good strategic general and a so-so tactical general.  Your observations on Grant's logistical skills support that view. 

Grant could learn - but sometimes at a terrible price in casualties.  But he accurately observed that the South could not be strong everywhere, and by keeping Lee tied up and engaged the war could be won at Sea and in the West. 

Grant also agreed with total war and waged economic destruction in the South (mostly through Sherman) and in the Shenandoah Valley (mostly by Sheridan).  The wanton destruction of civilian property broke the Confederacy's ability to wage war.  But that destruction, the 15th Amendment to the Constitution, and the vengeance by the post-war Congresses beggared the South until after WW1.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 29, 2020, 05:07:59 PM
I ask this as a serious question, Airboy, what kind of punishment would have been acceptable for rebels?  Again, in all seriousness, I get that on some level, the South was making war to be able to live the life they chose, but, the victors write the history books and the winners impose the penalties.  So, destruction of civil property, by act of war or by design, the enfranchisement of an unjustly enslaved people, and the vengeful laws set by the victors, were...what?  Too harsh?  Unjust?  I am interested in hearing the direction you are coming from.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 29, 2020, 07:02:17 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 29, 2020, 05:07:59 PM
I ask this as a serious question, Airboy, what kind of punishment would have been acceptable for rebels?  Again, in all seriousness, I get that on some level, the South was making war to be able to live the life they chose, but, the victors write the history books and the winners impose the penalties.  So, destruction of civil property, by act of war or by design, the enfranchisement of an unjustly enslaved people, and the vengeful laws set by the victors, were...what?  Too harsh?  Unjust?  I am interested in hearing the direction you are coming from.

Metaldog - there were two reconstructions. 

The US Congress decided that no former rebellious State could rejoin the Union without passing the 13th Amendment passed by the remaining States during the war.  Every formerly rebellious State passed the 13th amendment. 

Then there was an election and many former Senators, Representatives, and officials in the former Confederacy were elected to Congress.

Lincoln was dead and the Congress decided on vengeance.  They refused to sit the duly elected senators and representatives from the South. 

They passed the 14th Amendment which stripped voting rights of most white southerners.  Specifically:
"Executive and Judicial officers of a State, or the members of the Legislature thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such State, being twenty-one years of age, and citizens of the United States, or in any way abridged, except for participation in rebellion, or other crime, the basis of representation therein shall be reduced in the proportion which the number of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens twenty-one years of age in such State."

They also bankrupted every single Southern State, bank and pretty much everyone else with this part of the 14th Amendment:
"But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void. "

The critical part here is no State debts can be paid by any former State of the Confederacy.  Claims for the loss of slaves was not asked for by the former Confederate States - they knew they were under military occupation.

During "radical reconstruction" the North decreed that the rail cost for all steel shipments must be measured from Pittsburg, PA (bankrupting the Southern Steel Industry) and a host of other things to beggar the South.

If you look at the Statistical Abstract of the United States, or look at the Census decade to decade, the North bankrupted the South through various means to the point it did not recover until after WW1 where it was in 1860.

This part of the US Constitution, and economic history are right there if you want to look for them.  They are never taught in school anymore because it is unpopular and lacks "political correctness."

During the War, the North decided to wage total war against the South in a manner not seen in Western Civilization before.  Property destruction was done as a matter of policy.  This is pretty much what war evolved to when Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan, and the USSR engaged in WW2.  This was different from living off the land like Napoleonic War Era armies did.  The North destroyed the means of production, housing, roads, bridges, etc.... 

After the North decided to engage in wholesale economic war against the South after the surrender while also disenfranchising pretty much every white person in the South from voting - the terror started.  As a policy decision, this was not what Lincoln wanted and it was frankly stupid and set up the bitterness in the South after the war.

We could have probably healed quickly as a nation if the North had not passed the economic revenge laws associated with the 14th Amendment and healed much faster.  In the first election after the war blacks voted, as did whites in the South.  But the North was enraged to see former confederates in Congress, stripped them from their seats, passed the 14th Amendment, and waged economic war for 30 years.  This was stupid and destructive.

I can accept the total war that Grant and Sherman did to win.  It was questionable if Lincoln would be reelected and if the war would continue.  They did what they thought was necessary to win a very long war.

However, it was pure vengeance with a healthy dose of stupid that led to the economic revenge carried out in parts of the 14th amendment.

US Citizens rarely, if ever read the Constitution.  US Citizens are almost all ignorant of economic history.  This reply may need to go to R&P because it is true but very unpopular.

I think the greatest tragedy in US history was Lincoln's Assassination.  He wanted to end slavery (eventually - the Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves only in areas not controlled by the Union military).  He then wanted the States to rejoin the union with a minimum of strife and bitterness.  He was murdered and the radicals in the North decided to wage vengeance.  Did not end well at the end of WW1 at Versailles and it also did not end well in the USA for radical reconstruction.

Everything I mention above is easily found - except Lincoln's plan for the post-war.  I read a four volume work on Lincoln in High School and it included a lot of his papers for his future plans.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on June 29, 2020, 07:28:40 PM
No need for a fractious debate.  I just wanted to see how you stood.  And now I have.  Thanks for answering,.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 29, 2020, 08:06:53 PM
You are welcome.  Hope I did not make you or others angry.  My grandparents remembered Reconstruction and all of the poverty prior to WW1.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 29, 2020, 10:50:58 PM
Yes, and Lincoln wanted NO retribution against the South of any kind, remember his second Inauguration Speech, "With Malice toward none..." The South was not fighting to keep slavery. They were defending their homes and towns from invasion by those bent on destroying everything they had, like Sherman did in Georgia and elsewhere. Even Northern Abolitionists would have done the same. And would've been right to.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on June 30, 2020, 05:21:26 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on June 29, 2020, 10:50:58 PM
The South was not fighting to keep slavery.
Um, what? 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on June 30, 2020, 11:00:37 AM
Lets table this discussion or move it to R&P.  I don't want to refight this war in What are we reading?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 30, 2020, 11:56:15 AM
Quote from: MetalDog on June 29, 2020, 05:07:59 PM
Again, in all seriousness, I get that on some level, the South was making war to be able to live the life they chose, but, the victors write the history books and the winners impose the penalties.

As an aside, and kind of back on topic for the thread ;), one of the reasons the Grant book and miniseries were made at all, is because the losers DID start writing the history books (long ago back around the turn into the 20th century), and did their best to present the South's perspective of the war -- including the deprecation of US Grant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 01, 2020, 08:13:18 AM
Just started Early US Armor: Armored Cars 1915-40 by Steven Zaloga and Felipe Rodriguez (Osprey).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 01, 2020, 12:53:56 PM
Oooh! ^ ^

Just finished WW1 with Churchill, and I'm about 5% into his epilogue volume Aftermath, which digs hard into the post-war socio-political situations (and kicks off near the beginning with an idealized fantasy version of how the Big Three Leaders of the time might have teamed up together to create the world peace hoped for by the League of Nations.)

Currently I'm at the chapter talking about the rationales, and lack thereof ;) , in the reparations debate for post-War Great Britain, which is opening up a whole new economic/logistic vista for me (drowned by very understandable political pressures feeding on emotional tidal waves) on why even from GB the treaty turned out so worthlessly fatal for a peaceful German Republic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 01, 2020, 02:35:29 PM
Did Churchill want to punish Germany or was he more about rebuilding and reconciliation? I have always read it was the French who continually pushed to cripple the Germans, over and over, until they got their way.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 01, 2020, 04:17:27 PM
Ideally Churchill just wanted the German government replaced with a functional Republic; and a fair reparation scheme based mostly on land acquisition (already made by the victorious allies) plus the agreement to work as a military jumping point for removing the Communists and ending the Russian Civil War.

Since that couldn't be done, he was in very much of a puzzle about what could realistically be done. He was willing to go for 2 billion pounds sterling in financial reparations (to GB), to be paid out in a reasonable time as not to cripple Germany's ability to pay back, but popular politics in Britain quickly surged for six and seven times that amount more quickly -- so Britain did contribute to the push, at the level of popular politics, to cripple the Germans. (He notes that the women, who had just been given seven million more votes in suffrage, were the most bitter and vocal at demanding punishment.)

Churchill was stumping for MP re-election in his home district when the 2 billion sterling plan was drafted, and he knew that within a few days people would be pushing for much more than this, so he did his best to frame the proposal in such a way that people would accept it popularly, and hoped for the best. "We're going to make them pay!" {applause} "We're going to make them pay through the nose!" {applause} "We're going to make them pay ten times what they forced France to pay at the end of the Franco-Prussian war!" {prolonged applause!} "200 millions x 10 = 2000 millions" {applause!}

He stuck to his guns on this, but did qualify it soon with "Of course, if we can get more than that, we will!" But he didn't think it was prudent or good for the German people to push for more than that.

Another popular push during the new elections was for material reparations, replacing lost manufactured items and especially shipping tonnage, as well as raw materials where available like coal.

However, what the people demanding this sort of thing didn't realize, was that Germany's industrial strength (which had hardly been touched by the war, and if anything had greatly increased from picking up 40 percent of Russia's material and industry from Lenin's treaty) was so massive that in five years they could have replaced every ton of lost shipping plus all the material and goods lost in the shipping (mostly from the UBoat scourge in 1917 of course), and then having cleared their bill they would emerge from paying their debt as the masters of all commerce on Earth!  :D This type of reparation plan would have allowed them to corner the world markets on all item production, and to have destroyed all competition by (in effect) ruthless underbidding.

That's an important context that I hadn't noticed before, because it sets up part of the explanation for why the reparation demands were eventually set up to be so crippling to German industry: the other nations (including GB) didn't want Germany to be the undisputed rulers of the world's economy after finishing their payback. As it happened, the coal reparations nearly sunk GB's coal industry anyway (for example).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 01, 2020, 04:53:34 PM
If there weren't such punishing reparations after WWI then perhaps the Nazis would not have gained control in Germany.

Which leads me to quote my grandfather, who, despite only a 6th grade education was a smart guy. And he fought through the entirety of WWII in the US Army. He said: "You know what? After everything, the Germans and Japs [sic] really won the war."

Versailles and the reparations from the First World War were some of the biggest mistakes of the 20th century and definitely led to WWII.

But the joke may be on all of us, since Germany, as the biggest economy in Europe now and a world leader through the EU, ultimately got what it was looking for since unification in 1871.

Japan obviously in a different situation now because of their economy and the recent rise of China, but I think, ultimately, they also got what they wanted - to be taken seriously on the world stage.

But I guess there was no way for Churchill to see how damaging the reparations would be post-WWI. If anyone could possibly see it, I would think it would be him but's that probably expecting a lot, even for a historical titan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on July 01, 2020, 05:37:31 PM
It's funny.   I work in publishing and haven't read a danged thing outside the internet in three years.  That's irony.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 01, 2020, 07:55:11 PM
I worked in publishing from 1996-2006. My first job out of school was at a romance publisher, where one of my responsibilities was answering Fabio's fan mail. My best friend worked along my side me at the time and I wound up sleeping with his boss. And it was because of that same publishing company that I met The Wife in 1997 - NOT the best friend's boss, thank God. Good times!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 01, 2020, 08:10:22 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 01, 2020, 07:55:11 PM
I worked in publishing from 1996-2006. My first job out of school was at a romance publisher, where one of my responsibilities was answering Fabio's fan mail. My best friend worked along my side me at the time and I wound up sleeping with his boss. And it was because of that same publishing company that I met The Wife in 1997 - NOT the best friend's boss, thank God. Good times!

How many Fabio fan letters came with fan photos?  Apparel?  Marriage proposals?

Feel free to exaggerate if the truth is too boring!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 01, 2020, 08:32:55 PM
Every day, boxes of letters. Hundreds per week. I was instructed to ignore the marriage proposals and the pictures. Most of the pictures were true horrors anyway. This was around the same time that Fabio did his commercials for I Can't Believe It's Not Butter so he was at the height of his...popularity.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 01, 2020, 09:06:21 PM
^ I will never read a post by you again in the same way.  Ay carumba.   ::)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 01, 2020, 09:18:40 PM
There is (was) this used bookstore down in the village about a mile from my house that was sort of a community library/bookstore thing.  There were bookcases outside with tons of books that you could buy on the honor system, sort of a pay-what-you-want type of thing, or just borrow if you donated a book.  Of course you could also just take books since they were out there all night with not security or anything, but somehow it just worked. 

Inside the guy had all sorts of antique things, and books that were more valuable; typically classics and limited editions, it was very eclectic.  Then in the backyard there was this courtyard with tables and chairs where you could have coffee, chat, play games, and they'd have live music on Fridays.  Totally chill.

Anyway, the guy got evicted by the land owner and posted up something on instagram that he wanted people to come by and take everything.  My wife let me know so we just got back.  It was pretty picked through but I scored a few nuggets:

The Great Books:
1.  The Conversations
4.  The Iliad of Homer
6.  Herodotus and Thucydides
12. Marcus Aurelius, etc.
13. Virgil
19. Thomas Aquinas
30. Francis Bacon
47. Goethe
52. Dostoevsky
53. William James

Korea The Untold Story of the War by Goulden
The Last Days of Socrates by Plato
Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
The Cold War, a Post-Cold War History
and The Harvard Classics: Elizabethan Drama

As to what I'm reading:
I just finished To the Gates of Richmond by Stephen Sears, and started Return to Bull Run by John Hennessy. 
I'm also working through Black Shoe Carrier Admiral by Lundstrom.

Just got Black May by Michael Gannon in the mail today, so I'll probably start that as well. 

Whew!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 01, 2020, 09:19:31 PM
Jarhead,
I read a book on TopGun called Scream of Eagles that I quite enjoyed, but it was a long time ago.  It might be worth looking for a used copy if you're on a TopGun kick.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 01, 2020, 10:29:45 PM
So THAT'S why Fabio never wrote me back! I was writing to him but got Gus-Jumped instead.  :wow:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2020, 07:39:26 AM
No I definitely wrote you back. But not Toonces 'cause he's a hater.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 02, 2020, 09:20:15 AM
Whatever ever happened to Fabio? Didn't he end-up selling carpet in Cleveland? "I can't BELIEVE it's not Shag"!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on July 02, 2020, 09:33:51 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on July 02, 2020, 09:20:15 AM
Whatever ever happened to Fabio? Didn't he end-up selling carpet in Cleveland? "I can't BELIEVE it's not Shag"!

https://en.stories.newsner.com/news/where-is-fabio-lanzoni-now-and-whatever-happened-to-fabios-career/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 02, 2020, 12:16:36 PM
Seems like Fabio did not let fame go to his head and has had a pretty happy life.  Probably because his hair is better than mine.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 02, 2020, 01:48:37 PM
My hair is still great.. It's just all on my pillow when I wake up in the morning.  :-\
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 02, 2020, 02:24:45 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 01, 2020, 04:53:34 PM
But I guess there was no way for Churchill to see how damaging the reparations would be post-WWI. If anyone could possibly see it, I would think it would be him but's that probably expecting a lot, even for a historical titan.

Eh, yes and no. In 1918 Churchill was sure that crippling reparations would destroy the German people and cause havoc consequentially, so he would have preferred minimal reparations and for Germany to work off their war debt by, essentially, going after the Leninists, giving them a useful and heroic feat of arms to repair their reputation by.

Since that wasn't going to happen, he still agreed reparations ought to be sought, primarily in cash, and that 2 billion was a reasonable penalty because it wouldn't be crippling to the people. He didn't think that was a sufficient penalty but was puzzled about what more could and should reasonably be demanded.

He very much did NOT agree with any of the overtly intentional crippling plans, but understood that a lot of the officials (in Great Britain anyway) calling for such things were bowing to public political pressure and intended, at least at first, to give themselves leeway to be more lenient. Eventually that wasn't possible.

He didn't foresee in late 1918 just how bad the results would be for crippling penalties by the mid-20s; and he didn't foresee in the mid-20s (when writing The Aftermath) what the results would be by the mid-30s, not to say the late 30s! But what he did expect was bad enough that he tried to get people on his side to forego crippling Germany and driving the people to despair and desperation -- not least because he understood Bolshevism to be a deadly danger to civilization and that (according to their own promotional material) they dang well intended to take over Germany as soon as possible, in order to use Germany as a springboard for conquering Europe westward from there (and from there the worrrrld mua ha ha ha.)

He hasn't talked in the Aftermath yet about Lenin striking out in military invasions westward (starting in the Baltics) with a stated goal of reaching and absorbing Germany, less than 48 hours after the November 11 armistice, but that would certainly have been a big factor in his rejection of crippling Germany! (I'm unsure if he'll ever talk about those invasions, as a geo-political factor or otherwise.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2020, 04:34:25 PM
Have you read William Manchester's The Last Lion?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 02, 2020, 05:28:53 PM
Not yet. I do however have a 1st edition copy (bought partly by accident last year during my birthday haul at the estate sale) of Churchill's 1902 novel set before and throughout the American Civil War.

No, I'm not kidding.

Yes, it's real a thing.

No, I haven't read it yet. I forgot it even existed and ran across it the other weekend while trying to figure out what was in a box of my books and where to put them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2020, 08:12:01 PM
 :nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 02, 2020, 08:45:07 PM
I already shelved Black May for later.

Ever read a book where the author has some writing trait that drives you utterly crazy?

I can only remember two books where the way the writer wrote killed me from reading the book.

The first was The Crusades by Thomas Asbridge.  He had a habit of using - dashes - all the time.  Like multiple times a page.  It drove me nuts.

The second is Black May.  I'm only 20 pages in, but this guy loves parentheses (because they relate a point he was too lazy to just put in the text I guess).  There is a reason for parentheses (as long as they're used sparingly of course) but if you use them as a lazy way of writing (like this author does) then it just becomes extremely annoying.

Good thing he didn't submit that book for a grade to me.  I would not have been kind.  And did he even have an editor?  I've already been distracted by (LOL) the same thing being in parenthesis on the same friggin' page!  How did nobody catch that?!

Anyway, I've also shelved Black Shoe Carrier Admiral, a bloviated defense of Fletcher's actions in the early war.

I picked back up First Man in Rome by McCullough; I'm determined to finish this book (I understand (from others) that it's really good.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on July 02, 2020, 09:27:05 PM
^LOL (that was pretty funny).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 02, 2020, 09:48:36 PM
You're on a tear Toonces. (And) I don't even think you're drinking (yet).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 02, 2020, 10:28:47 PM
He missed a ) at the very end.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Martok on July 03, 2020, 03:24:56 PM
LOL Toonces.  That was quite...biting.  Well done, sir.  ;D 


Have just started Noir by Christopher Moore.  I haven't read any of his stuff in a while, but I can already tell I'm in for a zany ride, which is par for the course with him. 



Quote from: Toonces on July 02, 2020, 08:45:07 PM
I picked back up First Man in Rome by McCullough; I'm determined to finish this book (I understand (from others) that it's really good.)
I'll vouch for that (it's good).  :)  McCullough does a nice job of bringing historical characters to life, and making them relatable. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 03, 2020, 05:43:00 PM
I would make a joke about that writing style -- but I can't because (as anyone familiar with my efforts will already recognize) I do that, too.   :coolsmiley:

I will say in my defense, that I made a conscious absolute choice to NEVER use parentheses in my novel series. Split-infinitives, fine; parentheses, no. I do use dashes (or double-hyphens) with some regularity, and other far more goofy punctuation and even grammatic quirks -- such as meta-paragraphs and the intentional omission of punctuation at the end of some lines to aim for a subtle breathed-out emotional exhaustion effect. But no parentheses.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Lotti Fuehrscheim on July 03, 2020, 06:53:47 PM
I am currently reading a Dutch novel 'The Eye of the Basilisk'.

The protagonist is a Roman nobleman, born around the sacking of Rome by the Ostrogoths. He joins the army and becomes a centurion in the artillery, and is deployed during the Battle of the Catalaunian Planes, where he is involved, on the eve of battle, in a drinking party with Burgundian noble warriors, who launch themselves by ballista over the enemy lines. He is knocked out by the recoil of one of the things while trying to prevent this. So he missed out on the greatest battle in history.

Returning to Rome with a troop of injured soldiers, he is recruited by Pope Leo, a youth friend who he met at an elite brothel. They form a diplomatic mission to Attila who is threatening Rome. This results in a drinking match that caused the ultimate death of Attila.

It is a very funny book, but one story still haunts me, when Pope Leo tells about that time during the siege by the Goths when his family hasn't had a meal in days, there is suddenly a lot of meat, but his slave wet nurse has disappeared.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 03, 2020, 09:03:33 PM
^ Damn, that sounds really interesting.  Is it in English?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 03, 2020, 09:07:33 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 02, 2020, 10:28:47 PM
He missed a ) at the very end.

Oh bite me.   >:(   :coolsmiley:

So I went surfing today and on the way back I passed that used book store that closed up.  He still had a bunch of books out, although considerably fewer than before, and there was nobody there so I decided to just drop in and pick through the leftovers.

Holy cow am I glad I took a few minutes to stop.  Among the really good picks, I got a copy of Catton's Grant Takes Command (which I've already started reading) and Alison Weir's Elizabeth I.  I grabbed a bunch of others but I don't remember all of them right now.  They're all a little bit stinky, like Airboy couldn't read them for sure, but I've still got young lungs and can take the mold abuse.

What an absolute shame about that store, though.  I hate to see something awesome like that come to an end, you know?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 03, 2020, 11:03:32 PM
There's a store like that in Columbia County about an hour north of me that my buddies and I go to when we're in the area in an old barn. It's stocked to the gills with 1000s of used books and I have routinely left there with books worth hundreds for some ridiculous amount like 10 or 20 dollars. I really hope it never closes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MetalDog on July 04, 2020, 11:02:03 AM
Quote from: Toonces on July 03, 2020, 09:07:33 PM
Quote from: MetalDog on July 02, 2020, 10:28:47 PM
He missed a ) at the very end.

Oh bite me.   >:(   :coolsmiley:



I was just trying to add to the fun.  But you did though :P ;)



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 04, 2020, 07:26:21 PM
Just started The Pope and Mussolini - The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe by David Kertzer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 04, 2020, 09:38:40 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 04, 2020, 07:26:21 PM
Just started The Pope and Mussolini - The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe by David Kertzer.

Does this include material from the newly released documents?  A Pope's private papers get sealed for a certain period of time after their death, and his papers passed the deadline a year or two ago.  If they don't include those papers, then the book is probably out of date already.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 05, 2020, 12:24:56 PM
Book was published in 2014 but on the back flap it does include 'seven years of research based on the recent opening of the Vatican archives covering Pius XI's papacy.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 05, 2020, 01:28:26 PM
I could have the deadline wrong.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 05, 2020, 03:03:09 PM
Either way I just read about 60 pages of it and Kertzer is a great writer. If you have even an iota of interest in the subjects you will enjoy it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 05, 2020, 03:37:38 PM
Quote from: Myrmidon on May 09, 2020, 06:43:17 AM
My current audio book is Wars of the Roses by Dan Jones, which really brings to life the conflict and what led up to it.  For any interested in the topics, the same author's more recent published books The Templars and Crusaders do a great job of approaching the topics academically but in a very accessible and easy to read(or listen) manner.

Wars of the Roses was a good recommendation; Thanks! Just finished it. The book is mostly about the nobles of course. And, it was a very brutal and vicious time of history to be a noble. Plenty of folks lost their heads just because they had a few drops of the wrong blood in their veins. I would have liked a little more description of the battles, and a little more social history...but that is being picky.  I found the book to be interesting and entertaining.

The period is full of plot twists, treachery and probably more than a hundred major characters. The author does a great job in keeping them straight, but I still think I will have to read it again soon...just so that the complexity sinks in.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 05, 2020, 04:47:15 PM
Got through Churchill's two chapters on the rise of Lenin and Bolshevism, in The Aftermath this weekend.

I had been a little puzzled why he hadn't said much about them yet, even in his extended commentary addendum on The Eastern Front volume; but I finally realized that Churchill had decided to focus on what happened with Russia during the War -- thus also explaining why his East Front volume just sharply stops upon the fall of the Czar.

The Aftermath really backfills some details for the final couple years of the war, including what was happening in Russia from March 1917 (when the revolutions started) onward.

Currently I'm on the chapter about Wilson and the Fourteen Points.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 05, 2020, 07:31:09 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 04, 2020, 07:26:21 PM
Just started The Pope and Mussolini - The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe by David Kertzer.

Pius XI died before the start of WW2.  Pius XII was the wartime Pope.  His papers were scheduled to be unsealed in March, 2020 - but I don't know if the plague changed that timetable.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 05, 2020, 07:38:02 PM
Right, this is the story of the relationship between Pius XI and the rise of Mussolini's fascist Italy, from 1920 through the 1930s.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 06, 2020, 11:24:10 AM
I really liked Dan Jones' Wars of the Roses.  I found it much easier to follow than Alison Weir's version.  I was bummed, though, that it ended with little baby Henry VIII...he's the best part!  Although, I get it, the wars were over at that point, but still.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 15, 2020, 03:33:51 PM
The Pope and Mussolini was a fantastic book, highly recommended to any of you guys.

Now about to start Tower of Skulls - A History of the Asia-Pacific War July 1937 - May 1942 by Richard B. Frank. Been looking forward to this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on July 15, 2020, 07:16:10 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 15, 2020, 03:33:51 PM
The Pope and Mussolini was a fantastic book, highly recommended to any of you guys.

Now about to start Tower of Skulls - A History of the Asia-Pacific War July 1937 - May 1942 by Richard B. Frank. Been looking forward to this one.

What was your take on the Pope & Mussolini?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 15, 2020, 09:54:37 PM
David Kertzer is a great writer. It is my understanding that most of his books before The Pope and Mussolini were strictly for academics and historical specialists. This book was obviously very niche but it read very smoothly and even had some funny moments in dealing with topics that are so heavy.

It really gave me an understanding of what the Church was going through in the 20s and 30s and gave some great insights on Mussolini, in addition to Hitler and Pius XI as well as his advisors. I had no info on these relationships and now have a greater understanding of these things as well as the Church's relationship with Jews in that era.

It was a real eye opener for me, especially as a Jew and as someone who tries to ignore this history most of the time because of the painful direct connection I have to it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Destraex on July 16, 2020, 01:13:52 AM
Men Women and War - Do women belong in the front line
Martin Van Creveld

Just finished it. Gives the history and myths of women at war. I just found it interesting given all the PC stuff that goes on these days. Lot's of good info on the proportions that served and why.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 17, 2020, 09:19:48 AM
Just finished Prit Buttar's The Splintered Empires: The Eastern Front 1917–21

https://www.amazon.com/Splintered-Empires-Eastern-Front-1917-21/dp/1472819853/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1594994560&sr=8-8 (https://www.amazon.com/Splintered-Empires-Eastern-Front-1917-21/dp/1472819853/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1594994560&sr=8-8)

I enjoyed the book overall, and it filled in many gaps in my knowledge.

For example:
-The Czarist Russian Army still had some hitting power even into the Summer of 1917, and could make limited gains against the Austrians.
-The involvement of German "Freikorps" in keeping the Bolsheviks out of Latvia in 1919.
-The involvement of the British Navy in supporting Estonian independence in 1919. Including some running fights with Russian cruisers and destroyers.
-Possibly the last cavalry against cavalry charge (Polish Uhlans vs Bolshevik Cossacks) during the Russo-Polish War, 1920.

I don't know that I would recommend the book for everyone. It does drag a bit in parsing out the confusing political mess that was Russia during this period. But for anyone with an interest in the period and region, it is certainly a very good overview. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on July 17, 2020, 09:40:53 AM
I read Buttar's entire series on WW1's Eastern Front and enjoyed them very much. A few sections get bogged down in a lot of details, but overall I'm glad I read all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 17, 2020, 09:41:49 AM
^Sir Slash kindly sent me the first book in that series (Clash of Empires 1914) but I have not read it yet. Prit Buttar has a solid reputation and I have always been fascinated by WWI and the Eastern Front, so I want to eventually read all of his books. Even the WWII books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 17, 2020, 02:56:46 PM
I've read them all and especially enjoyed the East Front WWI series. I also learned a lot by reading them, there's lots of newer info in them. I was especially impressed with Brusilov after reading about he pulled-off his successful offensive in 1917. Or was it 16? Can't recall, but it was quite impressive. And, Gus I still have the last 3 in the series if you're interested.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 19, 2020, 12:29:30 PM
IIRC it was 1916. And I was wrong Slash you sent me Clash of Giants...WWII Eastern Front.

I bought Collision of Empires - 1914 on my own. Still need to read it.

Yes Slash are looking to sell the rest of your Buttar send me a pm and I will happily take them off your hands.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on July 30, 2020, 01:55:27 PM
I just started this e-book on the 87th Mountain Infantry Regiment (part of the 10th Mtn. Division). My Great Uncle was in company H throughout the Italy campaign.

http://deesdesktop.com/descendants/87th/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 30, 2020, 07:22:17 PM
Just finished Fire in the Lake by Frances Fitzgerald. This book is a socio-political overview of the war in South Vietnam in the mid-1950s through the 1960s. This was a Pulitzer Prize winning book back when it was written in the early 70s. The book almost exclusively covers the social and political aspects of the war, while military operations are barely mentioned. While the book certainly enlightened me in several areas, overall I would only give it a guarded recommendation.

On the positive side, it is probably the best book I have read about how the Vietcong established and maintained control of the country side. I really enjoyed that part of the book. The book has an almost grudging admiration for the Vietcong's approach. The book does call out the Vietcong for their brutal murder campaigns against government officials, and mass murders such as the killing of 3000 Catholics in Hue during the Tet Offensive. Still overall, the book makes the point that the Vietcong presented the farmers a much more stable, principled face than the South Vietnam government with its haughty, venal representatives. The book also made it seem that the US approach to solving the problem of Vietcong control was oblivious to the reality of the war...bulldoze the village and send the farmers to a refugee camp. The old, 'we had to destroy the village to save it.'

On the negative side, much of the book meandered from topic to topic and the timeline was sometimes hard to follow. Every once in a while, it would saunter back to a previous point and repeat the same information with different words. The book also often engaged in some socio-political navel gazing. Again, circling around the same points with different words. At one point the philosophical mish-mush almost had me putting the book down. 

Certainly the book has value for someone who is doing a period deep dive. Also, as I said, if you want to understand more about the nuts and bolts of the Vietcong's control of the country-side, I have read nothing better. But for those who just want a good overview of the war...I don't recommend Fire in the Lake as the book does not touch much on military operations.

https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Lake-Vietnamese-Americans-Vietnam/dp/0316159190/ref=sr_1_2?crid=17XIJOSDMVPIH&dchild=1&keywords=fire+in+the+lake+by+fitzgerald&qid=1596152551&sprefix=fire+in+the+lake%2Caps%2C207&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Lake-Vietnamese-Americans-Vietnam/dp/0316159190/ref=sr_1_2?crid=17XIJOSDMVPIH&dchild=1&keywords=fire+in+the+lake+by+fitzgerald&qid=1596152551&sprefix=fire+in+the+lake%2Caps%2C207&sr=8-2) 

   

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: PeaceFlower on July 30, 2020, 11:56:38 PM
Finished "Nuremberg Diary" which is a psychologist's account of interviews he conducted during the trials of Nazi leaders.

The biggest howler was this unforgettable quote by the defendant Julius Streicher, who claimed religious profiling could be achieved merely by
gazing at someone's ass....

=================================
More significant than Jewish eyes, however, was the Jewish behind, he had discovered. I asked him what was characteristic about the Jewish behind. "Oh, the Jewish behind is not like a Gentile behind," he smirked wisely, apparently rather serious and superior about this. "The Jewish behind is so feminine—so soft and feminine," he said, glowering and virtually drooling as he shaped the Jewish behind in the air with lascivious hands, indicating its softness and
femininity. "—And you can tell from the way it wobbles when they walk.—When I was at Mondorf, I was interrogated by four Jews—I could always tell by their behinds when they left the room, even though the others could not recognize it.
================================
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 08, 2020, 12:50:05 PM
I finished "The Darkest Year: The American Home Front 1941-1942 by Klingaman.

This is a superb book examining US Civilian life just prior to Pearl Harbor to the North Africa invasion (Torch) about a year later.  The Federal Government came close to nationalizing all industry and labor in the USA to fight the war.  There were few civilian goods produced and people had lots of money with full employment and war plant hiring.

There was massive censorship of any news, including all weather reports in the USA.  Cities were terrified of Japanese or German bombing.  Civilians thought everything was going wrong, in part because even big victories like Midway were not reported to the public.

Due to gross mismanagement and anger at being kept in the dark about what was going on in the war, the Democrats in control of the entire federal government lost big in the Fall, 1942 election coming close to losing the House.

This book is extremely well documented from historic newspaper and radio reports.  It also provides the big picture economic numbers.  A full third of the book is a reference list.

It is difficult to imagine today how much the US public was kept totally in the dark during the first year of the war.  Some of this censorship was idiotic (the Japanese Navy knew they lost 4 carriers at Midway), and pure distances and logistics made any sort of bombing attack on the US mainland next to impossible.  Some reviewers complain that the author makes President Roosevelt look bad - but the general public at that time was not happy and this was reflected during the 1942 election.

Other criticisms of the book are that certain topics (rationing for example) are repeated.  However, the author could either go by straight time chronology or organize by topic.  The author chose a little of both which makes for an easy read - but some topics do get revisited multiple times.

As someone who reads a lot of history, it is amazing how much the American Public was kept in the dark during the first year of the war.  What the public was panicking about made little sense in some places (bombing), but was horrible oversights in others (lack of blackouts on the East Coast backlighting merchant ships for German sub attacks).  The government did not treat topics honestly.  There was an east coast gasoline shortage due to no pipelines and tankers being sunk.  But the reason behind national gas rationing was the rubber shortage and that synthetic rubber had not gotten off the ground.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 08, 2020, 07:55:31 PM
Currently reading on my Nook app (the only title I have on it) Japanese Secret Projects: Experimental Aircraft of the IJA and IJN 1939-1945 Edwin Dyer III.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 09, 2020, 08:38:29 AM
Quote from: airboy on August 08, 2020, 12:50:05 PM
I finished "The Darkest Year: The American Home Front 1941-1942 by Klingaman.

This is a superb book examining US Civilian life just prior to Pearl Harbor to the North Africa invasion (Torch) about a year later.  The Federal Government came close to nationalizing all industry and labor in the USA to fight the war.  There were few civilian goods produced and people had lots of money with full employment and war plant hiring.

There was massive censorship of any news, including all weather reports in the USA.  Cities were terrified of Japanese or German bombing.  Civilians thought everything was going wrong, in part because even big victories like Midway were not reported to the public.

Due to gross mismanagement and anger at being kept in the dark about what was going on in the war, the Democrats in control of the entire federal government lost big in the Fall, 1942 election coming close to losing the House.

This book is extremely well documented from historic newspaper and radio reports.  It also provides the big picture economic numbers.  A full third of the book is a reference list.

It is difficult to imagine today how much the US public was kept totally in the dark during the first year of the war.  Some of this censorship was idiotic (the Japanese Navy knew they lost 4 carriers at Midway), and pure distances and logistics made any sort of bombing attack on the US mainland next to impossible.  Some reviewers complain that the author makes President Roosevelt look bad - but the general public at that time was not happy and this was reflected during the 1942 election.

Other criticisms of the book are that certain topics (rationing for example) are repeated.  However, the author could either go by straight time chronology or organize by topic.  The author chose a little of both which makes for an easy read - but some topics do get revisited multiple times.

As someone who reads a lot of history, it is amazing how much the American Public was kept in the dark during the first year of the war.  What the public was panicking about made little sense in some places (bombing), but was horrible oversights in others (lack of blackouts on the East Coast backlighting merchant ships for German sub attacks).  The government did not treat topics honestly.  There was an east coast gasoline shortage due to no pipelines and tankers being sunk.  But the reason behind national gas rationing was the rubber shortage and that synthetic rubber had not gotten off the ground.

Sounds like a book for me.  I will put in the queue.

Several years back I read, and liked, Alistair Cooke's travelogue, The American Home Front, 1941–1942 that he wrote while traveling across the US during this same period. He was a correspondent for the BBC and had access to a car, fuel and rubber tires. So Klingaman's book sounds like a good structured follow-up read. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 09, 2020, 09:07:55 AM
Klingaman quotes from Cooke's book several times.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 10, 2020, 08:08:21 PM
About to begin From Mahan to Pearl Harbor - The Imperial Japanese Navy and the United States by Sadao Asada.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 10, 2020, 09:01:10 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 10, 2020, 08:08:21 PM
About to begin From Mahan to Pearl Harbor - The Imperial Japanese Navy and the United States by Sadao Asada.

Curious to hear what you think of it once you finish.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 10, 2020, 09:57:48 PM
^Ok, will post some info once I do.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 11, 2020, 08:45:50 AM
Finished the first chapter of From Mahan to Pearl Harbor and I can tell already I will love this title. Asada's writing reminds me of the work of Paul Kennedy in one of my favorite books of all time, The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers. References have already been made to how Mahan saw a coming conflict between Imperial Japan and the U.S. as a 'race war.' 1890s troubles in Hawaii are detailed, which I knew little about. And Mahan had a close professional relationship with Theodore Roosevelt and also trained many of the up and coming IJN officers at Annapolis throughout the 1890s. Also learned that Mahan was named after Sylvanus Thayer (Alfred Thayer Mahan) 'Father of West Point' - the name Thayer is still as common around here where I live as Smith is.

And all this from the first 15 pages! Needless to say, if you have any interest in naval history, military history, American or Japanese history, getting From Mahan to Pearl Harbor is a no-brainer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 11, 2020, 01:11:00 PM
I finished Churchill's "Aftermath" volume of The World Crisis last weekend (I mean beyond this past weekend), and while his WW2 semi-autobiography is queued up ready to go, I'm taking a break for (possibly) the rest of the year and focusing on light entertainment reading instead.

....


.......{calculating}

...um, about 19,500 pages of light entertainment reading. Partly things I've read before, but mostly not.

We'll see how it goes.

(To be clear, the "mostly not" pages are paperback-sized small and have relatively large font, so the wordcount is less than would be expected from a typical page count.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 11, 2020, 01:17:08 PM
Oh, and I'm studying the rules for High Frontier version 3, with all the expansions.

As a break from my light reading.   :coolsmiley:

I feel like I'm getting a grip on them by now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 11, 2020, 01:36:44 PM
19,500 pages of light reading??
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Millipede on August 11, 2020, 01:43:39 PM
I recently finished 3 books about The Night Witches... "Night Witches" - Lasky, "Daughters of the Night Sky" - Runyan & "Tonight We Fly" - Hagan. The 1st two are fiction and the last is, wait for it, non-fiction.

It became apparent that "The Night Witches" was written for a younger audience and I suppose introducing that audience to history is a good thing but I didn't find it very rewarding. The author knows diddly about WW2 aircraft in that she seems to think that a Stuka was an interceptor that could turn & burn with any Soviet fighter of the day. Anyway, I could go on but the bottom line is that I found it annoying and hardly worth my time.

"Daughters of the Night Sky" was much better written and a good yarn. Obviously, the characters were all fictitious but several of them were made up of different historical individuals and various events that occurred during the war. A few times I did find myself scanning a page or two and skipping ahead but all and all it was a good read.

"Tonight We Fly" is the gem of the three! It tells the story of the 3 female air regiments (1 fighter, 1 day bomber & 1 night bomber) that the Soviets formed during the war but is most focused on the 588th Night Bomber Aviation Regiment which the Germans labeled Nachthexen (Night Witches) and which ended up as the most decorated Soviet air unit of the war regardless of gender. The fighter and day bomber regiments did eventually include some men but the 588th command staff, aircrew, groundcrew, cooks etc. remained exclusively women except for late in the war, when they started to get radios, one guy joined them briefly to help set the equipment up. They were at their best during the winter because the nights are longer and they could fly more missions. They moved constantly and were always close to the front so that they could take off on the 1st sortie as soon as it was dark, hit the target, rtb, sit in the plane while the mechanics and armorers got them ready to go again (usually 5 - 15 minutes), head for the next target... rinse and repeat. I can't remember exactly but the record was, at least, 13 sorties in one night (found it, 18 missions in one night). As you are all aware, Russian winters are a bit taxing. Try and imagine enduring -35 degrees in an ancient open cockpit biplane (Po-2) when touching anything with bare skin resulted in torn flesh and then think about the mechanics and armorers who, not uncommonly, had to remove gloves and mittens to perform some intricate tasks. Incredible warriors and I stand in awe! Needless to say, I really enjoyed this book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Anguille on August 14, 2020, 06:34:02 AM
Reading again (after what? 30 years?) the official (and true) sequel to Star Wars by Timothy Zahn...am in the middle of the first book: Heir to the Empire....
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 14, 2020, 07:49:25 AM
^I've got that on my to-read sci fi shelf. How is it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Anguille on August 14, 2020, 08:06:14 AM
Quote from: Gusington on August 14, 2020, 07:49:25 AM
^I've got that on my to-read sci fi shelf. How is it?
Well...much much better than what we got in the recent movies imho. Not as good as what i would have written though ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 14, 2020, 08:08:16 AM
O SNAP
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Anguille on August 14, 2020, 08:09:05 AM
Quote from: Gusington on August 14, 2020, 08:08:16 AM
O SNAP

I have just one word:

THRAWN!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 14, 2020, 08:48:07 AM
I've got the first Thrawn waiting to be read on that same shelf along with 'Darth Plagueis.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on August 15, 2020, 07:42:47 AM
Audiobook version of A Game of Birds and Wolves is on sale for $3.95 today at Audible.

https://www.audible.com/pd/A-Game-of-Birds-and-Wolves-Audiobook/1549149652?mi_u=amzn1.account.AGTMLADX2LFJ6URRBJQOKCVUCG3A&mi_sc=t&mi_cmp=0b1caa2b60b075e5&ddDate=15+August+2020&mi_ecmp=523677640&source_code=AUDOREM0405189NA9 (https://www.audible.com/pd/A-Game-of-Birds-and-Wolves-Audiobook/1549149652?mi_u=amzn1.account.AGTMLADX2LFJ6URRBJQOKCVUCG3A&mi_sc=t&mi_cmp=0b1caa2b60b075e5&ddDate=15+August+2020&mi_ecmp=523677640&source_code=AUDOREM0405189NA9)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2020, 02:56:27 PM
Reading the Osprey New Vanguard series book Imperial Japanese Navy Aircraft Carriers 1921-1945 by Mark Stille and Tony Bryan. Great color plates in this one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 23, 2020, 03:32:26 PM
About to start the Osprey Duel book Chinese Battleship vs. Japanese Cruiser - Yalu River 1894 by Benjamin Lai as well as Warships of the Imperial Japanese Navy 1869-1945 by Hansgeorg Jentschura, Diter Jung, and Peter Mickel, for flava.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 24, 2020, 02:39:11 PM
Just finishing The Battle History of the Imperial Japanese Navy by Paul S. Dull.

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-History-Imperial-Japanese-1941-1945/dp/0870210971/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Paul+dull+imperial+japanese+navy&qid=1598293220&s=books&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Battle-History-Imperial-Japanese-1941-1945/dp/0870210971/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Paul+dull+imperial+japanese+navy&qid=1598293220&s=books&sr=1-2)

This is a great, detailed battle history that has a very straightforward "just the facts" approach to telling the history of Pacific War through the experience of the Japanese Navy. You aren't going to learn what Admiral Mikawa had for dinner on the evening of the Battle off Savo Island, but you will get a blow by account of that naval "knifefight" off of Guadalcanal. The book covers orders of battle, the course tracks of the ships, torpedo volleys and gun duels. There is discussion of what the opposing forces knew, and their intent as the battles unfolded. But the text is succinct and to the point; readers looking for "entertaining" writing may think the prose is too terse.

The book is mostly written from the Japanese point of view. I was attracted to it because it was one of the first books in English that extensively used Japanese language sources. This included the 100+ volume Japanese official history that had just been completed only a handful of years before Dull's book was published in 1978. I went to university in Japan and had access to the official history, and was absolutely fascinated by it. I have often wondered why so few English language histories have used it. 

The book is great for covering even the small or often overlooked fights. For example, the four hour Battle of the Komandorski Islands (part of the Aleutians) in March, 1943. Basically a long range gun duel between cruisers with some hits on both sides, but in the end was pretty inconclusive.

A few things I learned from the book:

-There were quite a few collision accidents between Japanese ships during the war. Sometimes in the middle of a battle, and with fatal results. More than a few cases where ships were crippled by a collision, then sunk by Allied air forces while limping back to port.
-US submarines not only took a huge toll on Japanese shipping, but also on the Japanese navy itself. Sometimes these attacks changed the course of entire battles.
-Japanese gunnery did not seem to be any more effective than Allied gunnery. Japanese torpedo volleys were often devastating however, particularly in the early war.
-There were more than a few cases where in battle, one side fired a torpedo volley and missed by such a wide margin (firing at long range), that the other side never even knew it. 

For the armchair historian, this is a great read and reference. For someone interested in a more casual survey, this is probably not the best of books.

One criticism the copy I have is a hardcopy, but the quality of printing while adequate for the text, makes some of the numerous maps hard to read. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 24, 2020, 03:09:10 PM
^Goes well with what I have been reading lately too. While I was reading Tower of Skulls earlier this month I learned that the IJN suffered 100s of casualties just from intense night time drills they were conducting, at high speed, with no radar. I can't even imagine what those were like.

Terrible name for an author, though :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 24, 2020, 03:42:49 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on August 24, 2020, 02:39:11 PM
-There were more than a few cases where in battle, one side fired a torpedo volley and missed by such a wide margin (firing at long range), that the other side never even knew it.


....World of Warships has realism!! :o
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: solops on August 24, 2020, 04:06:47 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on August 24, 2020, 02:39:11 PM
Just finishing The Battle History of the Imperial Japanese Navy by Paul S. Dull
I read this years ago after buying it from the U S Naval Institute. I thought it was an exciting read. It still sits in my library and I refer to it from time to time. Recommended!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 27, 2020, 03:58:19 PM
Reading 'True Path of the Ninja' by Antony Cummins and Yoshie Minami.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on August 28, 2020, 08:09:35 AM
Tower of Skulls is on my wishlist.

A buddy of mine had joined a tour of Guadalcanal led by the Tower of Skulls author - but it was cancelled due to the plague.

I also got the "official word" that my 3 week WW1 battlefield tour for September was cancelled.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 28, 2020, 08:20:37 AM
^That sucks.

Tower of Skulls is a great book. First of a planned trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 28, 2020, 12:05:23 PM
Children of Ash and Elm: A History of the Vikings by Neil Price. This better not be about football!   :pullhair:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 28, 2020, 12:48:12 PM
^How is it? Looks pretty good from the Amazon description.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 28, 2020, 01:54:32 PM
Just started it. 600 Pages. Brand new history, copyright 2020. I'll let you know what I think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 28, 2020, 02:40:17 PM
Quote from: airboy on August 28, 2020, 08:09:35 AM
I also got the "official word" that my 3 week WW1 battlefield tour for September was cancelled.

Sorry to hear that. It sounded like it would have been a great trip.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 28, 2020, 03:05:04 PM
Cool thanks Slash.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2020, 02:26:08 PM
Currently reading Samurai and Ninja - The Real Story Behind the Japanese Warrior Myth that Shatters the Bushido Mystique by Antony Cummins.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 30, 2020, 03:24:18 PM
Awww Man! Don't be shattering my mystiques. There always be somebody up in here shattering mystiques.  #:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2020, 04:03:26 PM
The truth is actually more interesting in this case. It's a very good book, read almost 100 pages so far today.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 02, 2020, 08:20:52 PM
Just finished Waterloo: The Campaign of 1815 From Elba to Ligny and Quatre Bras Volume I by John Hussey

https://www.amazon.com/Waterloo-Campaign-1815-Ligny-Quatre/dp/1784381969/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=john+hussey&qid=1599093278&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Waterloo-Campaign-1815-Ligny-Quatre/dp/1784381969/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=john+hussey&qid=1599093278&sr=8-1)

This is an excellent operational / strategic dive into the Hundred Days campaign of 1815. The book covers the troop dispositions, message traffic and the difficulty that each of the armies had during the opening of the campaign. The book really shines at the operational level, making me think that this is what it would be like if David Glantz wrote Napoleonic books. The book tends to lean towards the British side, but the Prussians and French are well discussed. The book basks in operational details of supply, logistics, communications and intelligence. You can tell that the author really has a love for the material.

A few things I learned

1)  The Saxon contingent of the Prussian Army rebelled in May, 1815, causing significant command and control issues for Blucher. It also meant that Blucher had a significant part of his forces tied up in securing the mutiny.
2)  A French division commander (de Bourmont) and five of his staff defected to the Prussians on the night before Ligny. The next day, a French ADC from another division also defected. These should have given the Prussians a bunch of good intelligence on Napoleon's troop dispositions, but the information gained was not exploited.
3)  Wellington famously said that Napoleon had "buggered" him by getting the jump on the Allies at the opening of the campaign. The book goes into exhaustive detail proving that this was so. Wellington had indications of French intentions early in the campaign, but inexplicably he did not move until it was almost too late.
4)  Poor coordination caused the temporary loss of an entire French corps on June 16th (the day that Ligny and Quatre Bras were fought). Poor intelligence, had Napoleon thinking that Ney only faced 3,000 troops at Quatre Bras. So without consulting Ney, Napoleon pulled an entire corps away from Ney at the height of the Battle of Quatre Bras to reinforce the Ligny battle. The corps (D'Erlon's), got halfway to Ligny when Ney ordered them back. Because of the confused orders, the corps stopped in the middle. They were no good to either Ney or Napoleon. Ney might have won at Quatre Bras if he had had that corps. Then again, Ney was a near crazed wild-man so probably would have lost Quatre Bras anyway.
5)  Support for Napoleon in France was far from universal. There was a significant rebellion just at the cusp of being put down when the campaign opened. Napoleon had to send about 10,000 troops to put it down, at a time when he needed every available musket in Belgium.

Anyway, I recommend this book for anyone wanting a deep dive into the opening of the campaign. As in the title, Volume one only goes through Ligny and Quatre Bras.  But I definitely have Vol. II in my reading list.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 03, 2020, 07:25:31 PM
About to begin The Dark Side of Japan - Ancient Black Magic, Folklore, Ritual by Anthony Cummins.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on September 08, 2020, 12:23:45 AM
I've started reading Don Quixote again.  Still holds up in all its hilarity.


Does anyone have any suggestions on some good reading about the Pike and Shot era?  I'm looking for some good historical texts about warfare generally between 1500-1720.  Readability isn't a huge concern, but I'd rather not read a straight-up academic paper.  No particular conflicts in mind, but obviously Euro-centric is my preference :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Anguille on September 08, 2020, 04:12:13 AM
Reading the second book of the Star Wars Thrawn Trilogy: "Dark force rising".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on September 08, 2020, 09:16:29 AM
Quote from: al_infierno on September 08, 2020, 12:23:45 AM
I've started reading Don Quixote again.  Still holds up in all its hilarity.


Does anyone have any suggestions on some good reading about the Pike and Shot era?  I'm looking for some good historical texts about warfare generally between 1500-1720.  Readability isn't a huge concern, but I'd rather not read a straight-up academic paper.  No particular conflicts in mind, but obviously Euro-centric is my preference :)

I thoroughly enjoyed this book:

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-that-Shook-Europe-Poltava/dp/1780764766
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 08, 2020, 09:31:34 AM
Currently reading Life Along the Hudson by Allan Keller.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 08, 2020, 01:00:10 PM
Quote from: al_infierno on September 08, 2020, 12:23:45 AM
I've started reading Don Quixote again.  Still holds up in all its hilarity.


Does anyone have any suggestions on some good reading about the Pike and Shot era?  I'm looking for some good historical texts about warfare generally between 1500-1720.  Readability isn't a huge concern, but I'd rather not read a straight-up academic paper.  No particular conflicts in mind, but obviously Euro-centric is my preference :)

I had a similar question a few weeks back and I came up with this list. But I haven't got around to looking at any of them yet.
https://panzerde.blogspot.com/2016/12/pike-shot-reading-list-i.html (https://panzerde.blogspot.com/2016/12/pike-shot-reading-list-i.html)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 08, 2020, 01:46:24 PM
I read 50% of Alistaire Cooke's "The American Home Front, 1941–1942," stopped, and deleted it from my kindle.

The book discusses his travels as a young, foreign correspondent around the USA after Pearl Harbor.  It is poorly edited, he visits a lot of farms but knows little about agriculture, and spends far too little of his time recounting detailed conversations with US civilians.  A quick, off the cuff take by someone who is young and who does not understand the people or the economy very well is not that interesting.

When he occasionally gives detailed observations and recounts detailed conversations - it is very good.  His discussion of the guards at the Capital when Roosevelt asked for a declaration of war against Japan was quite good.  There were one or two other places where he lets people speak for themselves in detail instead of giving his off the cuff observations in the first half of the book.

He spends a lot of time with farmers and food processing plants.  Regretfully, he knew little about agriculture and gave snap comments about things he did not know much about.

Perhaps the most irritating thing about the book was his observation that a foreign correspondent cannot gain the "pulse of the people about the war" on a brief visit where they talk to a couple of people."  This is a valid point and I enjoyed reading about this - the first two times it is covered.  On the third and subsequent discussion of the same topic without any real new observation it grew tiresome.  This was an editing problem by the publisher since Mr. Cooke was unable to edit this.

My guess is that Mr. Cooke decided this manuscript was not that good and did not submit it for publication during his life.  Or, the publication was rejected by publishers and the rejection was forgotten.

There are usually good reasons why unpublished manuscripts by famous authors were not released.  When was the last time some discovered recording by a musical group was found after the fact and it was actually good compared to their released work?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 08, 2020, 08:49:47 PM
Welp, I'm finishing up my third Tuesday being off work for a COVID infection (apparently I have a rare stomach-flu variant that hasn't affected my lungs, thank God, but I can't keep my fever down). You might think this has been a great time to get reading done, but I haven't had enough energy to really bother with it after the first week -- primarily, I suspect, because I didn't have a fever for a whole week after I got it. Once the fever came back and stayed around, ugh.

This means my aforementioned reading project has languished, but I did manage to finish the final two novels of my HarperVista original Magic: the Gathering series some time ago, and I need to stay up another hour before taking medicine, soooo...

...what's that? You have no idea what novels I'm talking about?

LET ME PROVIDE YOU WITH LINKS TO PRIOR REVIEWS FOR A HANDY RECAP!  :D


Arena (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg465145#msg465145)
The Whispering Woods (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg466003#msg466003)
Shattered Chains (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg467737#msg467737)
(and a followup post about the broken attempt at a marketing theme for the back cover designs, resulting in the hilarious "Sewers of Cityname") (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg466120#msg466120)
The Final Sacrifice (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg469605#msg469605)
The Cursed Land (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg505732#msg505732)
The Prodigal Sorcerer (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg512386#msg512386)
Ashes of the Sun (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg523145#msg523145)
Song of Time (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.msg533426#msg533426)

...man, I nearly exhausted myself just trying to copy-paste-type that list...


Anyway, the final two are (in this production order) Sonia Orin Lyris' And Peace Shall Sleep; and Robert E. Vardeman's Dark Legacy. The title of the former by the way is a reference to a line from Shakespeare's Richard II (and cited as such as the header quote for the next to last chapter), although the phrase has a double-meaning: peace "sleeping" means wars breaking out in the book, but in the play peace is going to go sleep with pagans and Muslims instead while Christian nations and factions go to war with each other.

Both books share a common tangled plot structure of agents provoking nations to war with each other, although in Lyris' book the agent is a main protagonist (who is set up as a variation on Robin Hood of all things). In Dark Legacy, those agents are definitely amoral opportunists or evildoers, but Sleep's protagonist is trying to stop a civil war in his own beloved nation by setting up a legitimate foe for them to fight -- except things go horribly wrong. Both stories are tragedies.

They also share the commonality of being marketed as though they're set during (and so are about) a brief but important part of MtG's early meta-story development called The Dark, where after a world war fought using artifacts something like a nuclear winter wipes sunlight almost completely, for long enough to plunge the world of Dominaria into an ice age. The Dark was the first sequential story themed deck (the prior two, Arabian Knights and Antiquities, being independent of each other, and the original sets having no narrative themes at all or special set designations.) So including the Dark as a plot setting would be a big deal for recovering a proper narrative thrust from book to book: only the first four of this series from HarperPrism had been narratively connected to each other, and the first book had only been hot-patched into the subsequent trilogy along the way! Since then all the books had been independent from each other in story.

And yet the first of the compeltely independent stories, The Cursed Land, was far more of a "Dark" setting (even though not strictly) than these two! Neither one of them has anything to do with the situation of "the Dark" at all, although at least Sleep has the slow onset of an apparent ice age on the way. But while that's a large-scale factor of why the plot happens (resources are getting thin so various nations are eyeing each other for excuses to go to war to protect themselves and/or to loot someone else), the winter itself is only more like an early-cold autumn. And there's absolutely nothing even like that in Dark Legacy! -- only a brief prophetic local darkness in the courtyard of one key city to start the book with!

As with all the novels from #5 (The Cursed Land) onward, and increasingly so, these look hard like fantasy novels that never originally had anything to do with MtG per se, but which were trivially retrofitted with some references to make them seem like MtG stories.

Not that any of them are bad novels; the latter half (after the legitimate MtG stories) are all solidly good, with busy and clever plotting (in only around 300 pages each), good characters and characterizations, some interesting concepts, sometimes some interesting action thrown in. I haven't been bored reading any of them.

It just becomes increasingly obvious, to me anyway, why Wizards of the Coast might have decided to give up working with HarperPrism on these novels, and take direct control of publishing MtG stories: so that they can guarantee the stories will be about MtG situations and stories! Fans wanted to read the stories represented by the card sets: the story of the Antiquities set (the Brothers' War of the Artifacts), the story of the Dark and the subsequent Ice Age, etc. Not stories briefly referencing these things directly (like a prologue chapter set near the end of the Brothers' War then shifting to something completely different thousands of years later) or indirectly pretending to be about them.

Well, I don't regret reading them as a specimen of fantasy that I had never even tried to get into long ago during their publication, but as a minor fan of MtG and its lore I can't say they're really MtG novels. Except the first four, which I enjoyed the most other things being equal.

Fortunately a found a great deal on 32 books collecting WotC's true MtG novel series (in mostly trilogy sets), and I've got those boxed up nearby ready to start with once my energy recoups enough to dig in.

Don't worry, I won't promise to do reviews on them. ;) This original set is an obscure and outlying oddity in the history of fantasy intellectual property novels, however, so for that sake I thought I'd try to do them justice, pro and con.

Off to bed.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 08, 2020, 09:39:48 PM
Heal up and feel better.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 08, 2020, 09:42:33 PM
Damn Pratt! Glad you're beating this damned disease and, please, stay on top of it young Man. We need Pratt-Posts to Infinity.  :clap:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 08, 2020, 11:08:45 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on September 08, 2020, 08:49:47 PM
Welp, I'm finishing up my third Tuesday being off work for a COVID infection (apparently I have a rare stomach-flu variant that hasn't affected my lungs, thank God, but I can't keep my fever down). You might think this has been a great time to get reading done, but I haven't had enough energy to really bother with it after the first week -- primarily, I suspect, because I didn't have a fever for a whole week after I got it. Once the fever came back and stayed around, ugh.

Take care Jason
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 09, 2020, 12:33:23 AM
Get well soon Jason!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on September 09, 2020, 06:23:30 AM
Jason-I hope you get better soon.  Take care
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 09, 2020, 07:55:32 AM
Thanks guys, cough-hack. (Coughing has gotten worse in the past few days, ironically.) (But it has always been a productive cough, X-ray from a day ago is totally clean.)

I've managed to lose a few pounds, although much less of a loss than I was hoping for under the circumstances, which is odd.

Meanwhile, ironically I've found I'm better able to parse Churchill's Gathering Storm in this condition than entertaining fluff! So I started that a few days ago. It makes a great companion piece to his Aftermath so far, for people interested in the political inter-war.

A new thing I learned recently was that Churchill believed the crazy inflation of the German mark wasn't so much due to the insane restitution demands -- which were largely not required from Germany for various reasons (having been inflicted for political purposes back home) -- but rather due to Germany's government intentionally hyperinflating their currency to destroy its value themselves, in order to avoid paying back what (relatively) little they did actually owe!  :o

(My description oversimplifies the situation but gets the gist of it.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Anguille on September 09, 2020, 08:25:21 AM
Get well soon!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on September 10, 2020, 06:29:28 PM
Good to see you back Jason and I hope you feel better soon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on September 12, 2020, 08:06:06 PM
 Get better!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 13, 2020, 10:48:11 AM
Just started The Last Pirate of New York by Rich Cohen.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 16, 2020, 02:13:13 PM
Now reading Vanishing New York: How a Great City Lost Its Soul by 'Jeremiah Moss.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 16, 2020, 06:52:51 PM
Just finished "No Man's Land" by John Toland

https://www.amazon.com/No-Mans-Land-1918-Great/dp/1568520093/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600093581&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/No-Mans-Land-1918-Great/dp/1568520093/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600093581&sr=8-1)

This is a "popular" history of WWI that covers the key combat and political events of 1918. It is a good read because the author uses first hand accounts to tell much of the story. At points I felt almost like I was reading one of those "grand historical sweep" novels, following multiple characters through parallel story threads. Except the characters of "No Man's Land" were real people. Most of the voices are British, American or German.

The skillful use of these voices pulled me into their world, with the sights, sounds and smells of these long ago events. For example, the narrative did a great job in showing the Allied armies' near panic during the German's Michael offensive in March, 1918. This was just after Russia's surrender, but before the Americans were ready to fight. The Germans were able to redeploy a million men from the Eastern Front. These fresh troops slammed a wedge between the British and French, pushing the British towards the sea. For a brief moment, the French and British began to talk of collapse.

The book has a bit of an uneven approach to what it covers. Emphasis is on the Western Front, the rise of the Bolsheviks, and the Allied intervention in Russia. The Middle East and Italian Fronts are only mentioned in passing. Also, in the last few weeks of the narrative, the focus moves away from the military side of the war. The focus is then on the political machinations leading to the Armistice; this leaves a bit of a hole in the military narrative.

Despite a its blind spots, I found the book to be interesting, and entertaining. I enjoyed the first hand accounts and found myself looking forward to reading about how their stories would unfold.

If you are looking for a relatively light read, that is entertaining and puts the experience of the war front and center, I recommend this book.         
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 16, 2020, 07:02:09 PM
Quote from: airboy on September 08, 2020, 01:46:24 PM
....
My guess is that Mr. Cooke decided this manuscript was not that good and did not submit it for publication during his life.  Or, the publication was rejected by publishers and the rejection was forgotten.

There are usually good reasons why unpublished manuscripts by famous authors were not released.  When was the last time some discovered recording by a musical group was found after the fact and it was actually good compared to their released work?

It has been many years since I read this. I recall the good parts; the stories. Maybe I have just forgotten the bad. I am curious now to reread it in light of your comments. But there are many things my reading list, so it will be a while.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 16, 2020, 07:53:38 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on September 16, 2020, 06:52:51 PM
Just finished "No Man's Land" by John Toland

https://www.amazon.com/No-Mans-Land-1918-Great/dp/1568520093/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600093581&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/No-Mans-Land-1918-Great/dp/1568520093/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600093581&sr=8-1)

This is a "popular" history of WWI that covers the key combat and political events of 1918. It is a good read because the author uses first hand accounts to tell much of the story. At points I felt almost like I was reading one of those "grand historical sweep" novels, following multiple characters through parallel story threads. Except the characters of "No Man's Land" were real people. Most of the voices are British, American or German.

The skillful use of these voices pulled me into their world, with the sights, sounds and smells of these long ago events. For example, the narrative did a great job in showing the Allied armies' near panic during the German's Michael offensive in March, 1918. This was just after Russia's surrender, but before the Americans were ready to fight. The Germans were able to redeploy a million men from the Eastern Front. These fresh troops slammed a wedge between the British and French, pushing the British towards the sea. For a brief moment, the French and British began to talk of collapse.

The book has a bit of an uneven approach to what it covers. Emphasis is on the Western Front, the rise of the Bolsheviks, and the Allied intervention in Russia. The Middle East and Italian Fronts are only mentioned in passing. Also, in the last few weeks of the narrative, the focus moves away from the military side of the war. The focus is then on the political machinations leading to the Armistice; this leaves a bit of a hole in the military narrative.

Despite a its blind spots, I found the book to be interesting, and entertaining. I enjoyed the first hand accounts and found myself looking forward to reading about how their stories would unfold.

If you are looking for a relatively light read, that is entertaining and puts the experience of the war front and center, I recommend this book.       

Is this book primarily focused on the events of 1918, or is it looking at the entire war in equal weight?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 16, 2020, 11:41:20 PM
Quote from: airboy on September 16, 2020, 07:53:38 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on September 16, 2020, 06:52:51 PM
Just finished "No Man's Land" by John Toland

https://www.amazon.com/No-Mans-Land-1918-Great/dp/1568520093/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600093581&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/No-Mans-Land-1918-Great/dp/1568520093/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600093581&sr=8-1)

This is a "popular" history of WWI that covers the key combat and political events of 1918. It is a good read because the author uses first hand accounts to tell much of the story. At points I felt almost like I was reading one of those "grand historical sweep" novels, following multiple characters through parallel story threads. Except the characters of "No Man's Land" were real people. Most of the voices are British, American or German.

The skillful use of these voices pulled me into their world, with the sights, sounds and smells of these long ago events. For example, the narrative did a great job in showing the Allied armies' near panic during the German's Michael offensive in March, 1918. This was just after Russia's surrender, but before the Americans were ready to fight. The Germans were able to redeploy a million men from the Eastern Front. These fresh troops slammed a wedge between the British and French, pushing the British towards the sea. For a brief moment, the French and British began to talk of collapse.

The book has a bit of an uneven approach to what it covers. Emphasis is on the Western Front, the rise of the Bolsheviks, and the Allied intervention in Russia. The Middle East and Italian Fronts are only mentioned in passing. Also, in the last few weeks of the narrative, the focus moves away from the military side of the war. The focus is then on the political machinations leading to the Armistice; this leaves a bit of a hole in the military narrative.

Despite a its blind spots, I found the book to be interesting, and entertaining. I enjoyed the first hand accounts and found myself looking forward to reading about how their stories would unfold.

If you are looking for a relatively light read, that is entertaining and puts the experience of the war front and center, I recommend this book.       

Is this book primarily focused on the events of 1918, or is it looking at the entire war in equal weight?

The book only covers 1918. And IMHO this is a good thing. Combined arms and new tactics broke the armies free from trench warfare and much of the fighting was over open ground. The narrative takes off in March 1918 with the start of the German Michael Offensive. So the book really only covers about 8 months.

The fighting was very dynamic in this period. Sometimes the battle lines moved 20 miles in a day, something unimaginable in 1917. Spring and early summer saw the Germans push hard, since they were flush with troops released from the Eastern Front. At one point, the Germans threatened Paris. By August, a complete reversal occurred. The weight of American troops was being felt, the British and French executed some brilliant combined arms battles, while the German home front began to collapse.

IMHO, the two most interesting periods of WWI are 1914 and 1918. Both periods saw large armies maneuvering over open ground. But 1918 holds a special place since the fortunes of both sides swung so wildly over a short period of time. 

But if you are looking for a general history of the entire war, Toland's book is too focused.

IHMO A good general history of the entire war is: "A World Undone" by G. J. Meyer 
https://www.amazon.com/World-Undone-Story-Great-1914/dp/0553803549/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600317420&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/World-Undone-Story-Great-1914/dp/0553803549/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1600317420&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 17, 2020, 04:20:58 AM
I prefer Keegan's WW1 book.

No Man's Land is interesting enough to put on my wishlist.  But the price of $12 seems pretty high for a book first published sixteen years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 17, 2020, 07:49:14 AM
^I just put it in my cart for about 8.00 with shipping. Thanks Tank!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: solops on September 18, 2020, 03:36:14 PM
I am reading "The Wandering Inn" by Pirateaba. I highly recommend it. The Wandering Inn is a FREE fantasy web serial book located at :

https://wanderinginn.com/

It is actually seven books, the seventh book being the current one that is updated twice a week. While all of the books are free to read online, they are also available to purchase for Kindle or other readers. They are packaged in Volume I (books 1-3) for $0.99 and volume 2 (books 4-6) for ? I read two or three books a week. So I have absorbed a lot of mediocre to awful SF and fantasy garbage. This particular series is a step above the average. I like it enough to pay $5/month to get to read each chapter a few days earlier than the free version is posted.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 19, 2020, 10:32:30 AM
Quote from: solops on September 18, 2020, 03:36:14 PM
I am reading "The Wandering Inn" by Pirateaba. I highly recommend it. The Wandering Inn is a FREE fantasy web serial book located at :

https://wanderinginn.com/

It is actually seven books, the seventh book being the current one that is updated twice a week. While all of the books are free to read online, they are also available to purchase for Kindle or other readers. They are packaged in Volume I (books 1-3) for $0.99 and volume 2 (books 4-6) for ? I read two or three books a week. So I have absorbed a lot of mediocre to awful SF and fantasy garbage. This particular series is a step above the average. I like it enough to pay $5/month to get to read each chapter a few days earlier than the free version is posted.

Browsed the chapters a bit...looks really interesting. Love the concept. Thanks for suggesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on September 22, 2020, 06:19:03 PM
Just started on Gravity's Rainbow by Pynchon.  Very wild stuff, tough to get through at times, but the prose is immense.  Not sure I'll make it through to the end, but my interest in Pynchon is piqued.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 27, 2020, 06:03:57 PM
About to start The Vampire: A New History by Nick Groom.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 27, 2020, 06:36:05 PM
I'm reading Miracle at Midway by the same author as At Dawn We Slept.

This is a good book.  It takes both sides in chronological order alternating between Japan and the USA.  About 40% of the book is references and footnotes.

The downside of this book is that it was published before Shattered Sword was released.  Shattered Sword is the best account of Midway from the Japanese records and contradicts some of the earlier accounts about the Japanese decision making and some of the battle details that were falsely reported by one of the Japanese Officers whose early accounts have become discredited.

So Miracle at Midway is very good, especially for the interviews and details about the US side of the Battle.  The parts that are problematic are some of the Japanese details which are not the fault of the author - but the fault of a bad source not fully discredited until Shattered Sword was published.

I've found it to be a good buy and an interesting read for the $2.99 I paid for it on kindle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 27, 2020, 07:47:28 PM
Shattered Sword is on my (huge) to-read list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 27, 2020, 08:36:05 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 27, 2020, 07:47:28 PM
Shattered Sword is on my (huge) to-read list.

If you have a copy, I would read it.  Midway was the most important single naval battle of either world war.  Shattered Sword overturned some of the established beliefs about Midway.  I'm reading my sixth(?) book that focuses primarily on that battle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on September 27, 2020, 09:06:50 PM
Definitely read Shattered Sword.  It is one of those rare books which actually significantly adds to the knowledge about an already well researched and discussed topic.  ALl the more amazing given that it was not written by professional historians.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 27, 2020, 10:53:25 PM
Bill O'Reilly's latest, "Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America". Great read so far but as usual with his books, too short. Only 288 pages.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 27, 2020, 11:36:06 PM
Just finished "Tower of Skulls" by Richard B. Frank

https://www.amazon.com/Tower-Skulls-History-Asia-Pacific-1937-May/dp/1324002107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XRRE187QU8ZX&dchild=1&keywords=tower+of+skulls&qid=1601266791&s=books&sprefix=tower+of+sk%2Caps%2C439&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Tower-Skulls-History-Asia-Pacific-1937-May/dp/1324002107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XRRE187QU8ZX&dchild=1&keywords=tower+of+skulls&qid=1601266791&s=books&sprefix=tower+of+sk%2Caps%2C439&sr=1-1)

This is the start of a trilogy covering the War in Pacific. As the first volume, Tower of Skulls covers the Sino-Japanese War and the early campaigns against the Allies in 1941 and 1942. It stops with the surrender of US forces in the Philippines.

The book's great strength comes from its comprehensive treatment of pretty much all of the campaigns from both the ground, sea and air perspective. Too many general histories of the Pacific War tend to ignore or not pay enough attention to the war in China, or 1941/42 campaigns such as Malaya, Burma, Java or Hong Kong. Tower covers them all, and even some more obscure ones such as the British 1942 attack on Vichy French held Madagascar. Overall I felt the book had that "just right" mix of operational and technical detail, while not losing sight of grand strategic concerns. In short, I thought it was a great read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on September 27, 2020, 11:45:21 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on September 27, 2020, 11:36:06 PM
Just finished "Tower of Skulls" by Richard B. Frank

https://www.amazon.com/Tower-Skulls-History-Asia-Pacific-1937-May/dp/1324002107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XRRE187QU8ZX&dchild=1&keywords=tower+of+skulls&qid=1601266791&s=books&sprefix=tower+of+sk%2Caps%2C439&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Tower-Skulls-History-Asia-Pacific-1937-May/dp/1324002107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XRRE187QU8ZX&dchild=1&keywords=tower+of+skulls&qid=1601266791&s=books&sprefix=tower+of+sk%2Caps%2C439&sr=1-1)

This is the start of a trilogy covering the War in Pacific. As the first volume, Tower of Skulls covers the Sino-Japanese War and the early campaigns against the Allies in 1941 and 1942. It stops with the surrender of US forces in the Philippines.

The book's great strength comes from its comprehensive treatment of pretty much all of the campaigns from both the ground, sea and air perspective. Too many general histories of the Pacific War tend to ignore or not pay enough attention to the war in China, or 1941/42 campaigns such as Malaya, Burma, Java or Hong Kong. Tower covers them all, and even some more obscure ones such as the British 1942 attack on Vichy French held Madagascar. Overall I felt the book had that "just right" mix of operational and technical detail, while not losing sight of grand strategic concerns. In short, I thought it was a great read.

Hey, I just bought this for kindle myself!  Glad to hear from a groggy that it's worthwhile.  It's near the top of my list right now, once I take a break from fiction and dip my toes into the horror of real life.   :hide:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 28, 2020, 06:05:35 AM
I read Tower of Skulls over the summer, great book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on September 28, 2020, 07:00:14 AM
Tower of Skulls is on my wishlist.  A local grog read it and also thought it was excellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 28, 2020, 09:21:30 AM
If the author does finish the Tower of Skulls trilogy it will be incredible.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 05, 2020, 01:51:11 PM
I finished Miracle at Midway last night.  I picked it up on a $2.99 kindle deal.

The author is the one who wrote "At Dawn We Slept" sort of.  He died while finishing up all of the research and interviews.  His staff finished up the book.

This is the best account of US actions at Midway that I've ever read.  His approach is to take the battle in chronological order, alternating chapters between the US and Japanese actions.  He carefully presents the information as what each side knew at that point in time - and what logical options they have based on the information they have in front of them.

The US coverage is better than Shattered Sword.  Shattered Sword has better Japanese coverage than Miracle at Midway.

His after action review of the decisions of the US and Japanese commanders at various levels and at various points in time is excellent.  His view of how Nagumo ran the battle was very inciteful.  He thinks Nagumo mostly made the right decisions at the right times using Japanese/US source materials.  His primary faulting of Nagumo was a haphazard search pattern for possible US carriers - but the information that Nagumo had on the strategic level suggested the US carriers were far away.

His review of the US actions at Midway were:
1] The USA mostly had bad equipment (inferior fighters including the F4F, torpedos (of course), torpedo planes, aerial bombs, and unarmored flight decks.
2] US had much better strategic and tactical intelligence (radar).
3] Information sharing between the fleet and Midway was horrid.
4] US junior officers and men fought very well.
5] US got very lucky, but Spruance and Fletcher held nothing back on the attack so they made their own luck.

His review of the Japanese actions at Midway were:
1] Japanese had much better equipment (aside from Radar & strategic intelligence).
2] Japanese were very brave and skilled
3] Nagumo's "mistakes" were minor - except perhaps for the search planes. 
4] Yamamoto made the big blunders: dividing his forces, not having the battleships as a screen, having a very unclear battle plan (is taking Midway the objective, or is destroying the US fleet), and poor planning for enemy response prior to the battle.
5] Not waiting for the two other fleet carriers to be repaired/replenished to concentrate his forces.

However, he says that Japs had all the time in the world to plan.  Spruance had only a couple of days and Fletcher a day and a half less than Spruance - but they made the right decisions.

He credits a couple of instances of luck and good decisions that turned the battle.

This is the fourth or fifth book on Midway that I've read.  If I had to make a recommendation,
Lord's book is an inspiring, interesting narrative that by current standards lacks a lot of information.
Shattered Sword is the best analysis of Japanese actions and doctrines.
Miracle at Midway is the best coverage of US analysis, options and actions.

This was well worth the $2.99 I spent on it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 09, 2020, 07:23:46 PM
Quote from: airboy on October 05, 2020, 01:51:11 PM
....
This is the fourth or fifth book on Midway that I've read.  If I had to make a recommendation,
Lord's book is an inspiring, interesting narrative that by current standards lacks a lot of information.
Shattered Sword is the best analysis of Japanese actions and doctrines.
Miracle at Midway is the best coverage of US analysis, options and actions.
....

Some good thoughts on these. I very much like Shattered Sword so I will put this one on the reading list. I like to read several books on the same topic as well. I find that doing so builds a better picture of the history...for me at least. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 09, 2020, 08:05:54 PM
I recently finished Masters of the Air by Donald Miller. This book is a history of the 8th Air Force in WWII and is the basis for an upcoming Spielberg / Hanks TV series in the sprit of "Band of Brothers" and "The Pacific".

https://www.amazon.com/Masters-Air-Americas-Against-Germany/dp/0743235452/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=masters+of+the+air&qid=1602169777&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Masters-Air-Americas-Against-Germany/dp/0743235452/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=masters+of+the+air&qid=1602169777&sr=8-1)

I really enjoyed reading the book. It had a great balance between analysis of major issues, strategy and operations. At the same time, it also provided gripping first-hand accounts. The book covers pretty much everything. Strategy, the missions, the capabilities of the aircraft, training, logistics, off-duty life, capture after bailing out, escape, and even race relations (the USAAF brought a horrible enforced segregation with it to England).

The book brought home the fact that being an 8th Air Force crewman was more dangerous than being an infantryman. Only 25% of fliers completed their tour without being wounded, killed or captured. They fought not only the enemy, but the extreme conditions in the aircraft. With no heating system, frostbite and severe cold injuries were just as much of a problem as flak. 

The book is mostly written from the US point of view. There are plenty of first hand accounts of the missions, and some heart wrenching stories of bravery in the face of certain death.

The book had some real highlights for me, among them:

1)   The fate of flyers who bailed out over Switzerland. These fliers didn't really have it that good. And if the Americans tried to escape they were often sent to a horrid concentration camp run by a sadistic Nazi.

2)   The book had an in-depth and very well done (IMHO) discussion of "terror" bombing, and if it ever achieved its goal. In short, the book (and the USAAF) concluded that while the bombing eventually contributed to breaking German civilian morale, there was little effect. The Germans became apathetic (in 1945) and were only worried about survival. The civilians did not turn on their Government as had happened in late 1918.

3)   The book has a very good analysis of the US targeting strategy. Ultimately, the US started to go for oil and the transportation grid. These had much more impact than bombing other industries. But the US almost completely ignored the power grid and missed a huge opportunity to end the war sooner.

4)   The book has a lengthy discussion of if the US should have bombed the Nazi concentration camps such as Auschwitz. Would this have slowed the Nazi death machine down? After the war, there was quite a bit of controversy around the Allies ignoring the death camps. The book concludes that it would have had little real effect, other than to kill many of the incarcerated.

5)     The book covers the 8th's celebrities well, without going overboard. I knew about Jimmy Stewart, but I hadn't heard much about Clark Gable prior to reading the book. It turns out that he was not just a showboat. He lobbied hard to be treated like the other guys, and he flew on many dangerous missions as a gunner. In one mission, he had the heal of his boot shot off by a German cannon round.   

I could possibly throw out a few barbs about the book, but that would be picky. Maybe the biggest thing missing IMHO is how the US determined targets at the operational level. How did they know that a particular ball bearing plant produced 20% of the Reich's ball bearings for example. It would have been nice to hear how this intelligence was collected and analyzed.

Anyway, Masters of the Air is a great book and an easy recommendation. Can't wait to see it on TV. 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 10, 2020, 12:46:10 PM
Just started Dracula's Demeter by Doug Lamoreaux.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 16, 2020, 09:44:47 PM
Just finished, "Killing Crazy Horse" by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard. I've read every, 'Killing' book and while most are what I would consider, 'Light History' they all have something in them I've never heard anywhere else. This one's the best in years, taking a unique approach of telling the story of the U.S. Govt. vs American Indians as one complete narrative instead of many different individual ones. The Who's, Why's and How's of the entire struggle from The Red Stick War in 1813 to the surrender of the Nez Perce in 1877 is covered, the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly included from both perspectives. With many great maps and pics, it's hard to believe so much could be included in a book less than 300 pages. A great read.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 18, 2020, 03:03:40 PM
What did it have on the Black Hawk War? Always wanted to learn about that.

I just finished Batman: Damned (part of the DC Black Label imprint) by Brian Azaarello and Lee Bermejo...has some of the greatest comic art I have ever seen, but was entirely too short. Need more Black Label!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 18, 2020, 10:35:20 PM
There's a great chapter on the Black Hawk War including Lincoln's involvement in it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: matt3916 on October 19, 2020, 03:35:19 PM
Re The Black Hawk War.  See "Twilight of Empire" by Allan W. Eckert.  I'd recommend the rest of the books in his Winning of America series as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 19, 2020, 03:41:20 PM
^Thank you kind stranger. And Slash :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 19, 2020, 10:05:15 PM
I wish there was more about one of my favorites, Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce. Kind of short there. Them Injuns could FIGHT!  :notworthy:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 20, 2020, 04:01:36 PM
Now reading Baltimore, or, The Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire by Mike Mignola and Christopher Golden.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on October 21, 2020, 05:09:31 PM
Most recently finished No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy.  Great novel, and reading it made me appreciate what an awesome adaptation the Coen Brothers created.  Possibly the most direct book-to-film adaptation I've ever seen, and at the same time a rare example of a faithful film adaptation that actually stands on its own merit alongside the source material, rather than standing on its shoulders.  Similarly, I've started on The Road but it's a little too bleak and depressing for my mood lately.  I picked up Blood Meridian and All the Pretty Horses but haven't started them yet.

The last few days I've been burning through White Noise by Don DeLillo.  Hard to describe, but it's a quirky black comedy/satire of modern American life, with a vaguely Philip K. Dickian feeling of being lost in the "white noise" of modern technological distractions.

When it comes to historical stuff, I've been reading Operation Barbarossa and Germany's Defeat in the East by David Stahel.  Quite interesting look at the planning and execution of the initial stages of the Eastern Front, and basically argues that the war was lost for Germany by August of 1941, long before the Wehrmacht was stopped at the gates of Moscow, due to the utter failure of German planning and inadequate analysis of the Wehrmacht's ability to actually achieve its strategic objectives.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 23, 2020, 09:30:44 AM
I'm rereading Shattered Sword.  Miracle at Midway seems to have caught all of the battle operational problems covered in Shattered Sword.  Shattered Sword contains a ton of detail on Japanese Naval doctrine and mechanical limitations that Miracle at Midway did not have access to.

Japanese doctrine for AA, and their gun placement left them wide open for dive bombers.  Their only defense was CAP and good operations at the helm.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on October 23, 2020, 11:00:43 AM
That time of year has come again, where I just finished reading a new batch of Rusty Wilson short stories!  <:-) :bd:

I would use the "I'm a simple man" joke, but that needs to be believable to work, and no one here would believe I'm a simple man, so...

I'm a complicated man. But when I see that Rusty has released a new set of Bigfoot-encounter short stories, I click buy immediately. I have never been disappointed yet. (In his lone novel I borrowed through Amazon loan, yes. Short stories, no.)

They're all on Kindle, as well as physical, and here's the list: https://smile.amazon.com/Rusty-Wilson/e/B0058DGI1E

Back in January this year, he released a collection set in Montana, and aside from being up to par I was a little worried that the poignancy of the end of the final story was his way of saying he was retiring from authoring these. But hurray, another one in time for Halloween! -- also set in Montana, but more specifically at Glacier Park. The new collection includes a couple from the prior book which were also set in Glacier... and that includes the same finale short story, so... will this be his last collection?  :'(

Don't know, but I continue to maintain that Rusty ranks near the top of classically American short story authors in quality! -- and I'll always be glad to have read him.

If you have any interest in the topic at all, he's an easy full recommendation. Just be a little careful shopping his earlier work, since he released micro-batches on Kindle that he eventually collected together.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 24, 2020, 07:56:44 PM
Anyone here read the Arms of Krupp by William Manchester?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 24, 2020, 08:45:28 PM
^ Yes, when I was in High School ages ago.  My Dad had a copy.  It was not memorable enough that I remember anything about it today.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 24, 2020, 09:07:37 PM
I just finished "The British Are Coming" by Rick Atkinson.

https://www.amazon.com/British-Are-Coming-Lexington-Revolution/dp/1250231329/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+british+are+coming&qid=1603589187&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/British-Are-Coming-Lexington-Revolution/dp/1250231329/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+british+are+coming&qid=1603589187&sr=8-1)

The book is part one of a yet to be finished trilogy on the Revolutionary War.

This is the third Atkinson book I have read. Each of the books having a similar "feel"; in a very good way. Atkinson is a very descriptive writer, and I have found his books to be colorful and entertaining. He does a wonderful job of telling the reader "what" happened. Still, sometimes I wish he would spend some more words on "why" things happened. But that is just me, and I think that many readers would find his balance between description and analysis to be just right.

The book starts with the early friction between the American colonies and Britain. It moves quickly to the powder keg ignited at Concord, and the climax at Bunker Hill. It then moves to the 1776, nearly catastrophic (for the Americans) New York campaign. It also fully describes the back and forth tragedy of the American Canadian Expedition. The book rounds out its discussion of operations with the surprising Rebel success in the '76 Southern Campaign. Finally, the book ends with the amazing Trenton / Princeton Campaign that restored American confidence in George Washington and the Continental Army.

Overall I found the book's great strength is that it covers all parts of the conflict, and doesn't play favorites.

One eye opening thing that the book taught me was that despite the successful British New York campaign, overall, the early war was not really successful for the British. 

I am looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy once Rick Atkinson finishes it.       



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 24, 2020, 09:08:26 PM
AB: I don't know why it popped into my head. I've wanted to read it since I was a teenager and never did. Got a copy at Amazon for about 3 dollars. I did not realize it was originally published in 1968!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: matt3916 on October 25, 2020, 04:46:32 PM
Re "The Arms of Krupp."  Have a hardback copy in my library.  Worth reading I thought.  Lot of pages.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 25, 2020, 04:56:52 PM
^Yes the copy I picked up is 'illustrated' and comes out to be around 900+ pages, I think.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on October 25, 2020, 04:57:03 PM
I never thought wargamers would go in for silly romance novels; "bodice rippers" as an old girlfriend called them. Did Fabio model for the cover art?
:D

Sorry.

I'm reading Critical Theories: How Activist Scholarship Made Everything About Race, Gender, and Identity, by Helen Pluckrose and James Lindsey.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on October 25, 2020, 05:38:37 PM
Quote from: Ubercat on October 25, 2020, 04:57:03 PM
I never thought wargamers would go in for silly romance novels; "bodice rippers" as an old girlfriend called them. Did Fabio model for the cover art?
:D


Lol, if you're referring to All the Pretty Horses, apparently some execs at Hollywood turned the film adaptation into schlocky romance crap.  The actors involved were apparently furious, as it was so at-odds with the tone of the book.  One way or another, I'm a sucker for McCarthy, and I'm sure "romantic" by his standards is still pretty dang dark and bleak by normal people standards :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on October 25, 2020, 06:00:48 PM
I meant Arms of Krupp, like In the Arms of Krupp.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on October 25, 2020, 06:07:36 PM
Ahh, I should have got that.  LOL
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 25, 2020, 07:25:42 PM
Don't make me tell my Fabio stories.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 26, 2020, 10:52:19 AM
Did he ever pay you all that Alimony he owes you Gus?  ^-^
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 26, 2020, 11:14:57 AM
Still waiting.

While waiting, I am reading Wylding Hall by Elizabeth Hand, an English ghost story about a 1970s folk band who retreats to a ruined castle to record their masterpiece and...has bad things happen to them.

Like Fleetwood Mac but less frightening.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on October 27, 2020, 07:50:39 AM
I finished rereading Shattered Sword.  Read everything through the sinking of the last Jap carrier and the Yorktown being torpedoed.  Then skipped the mop-up and reread the conclusions and implications.  Reread this to refresh my memory and compare with Miracle at Midway.

IMHO:
Read Shattered Sword for the best comprehensive coverage of Midway from the Japanese Perspective.
Read Miracle at Midway (Prager) for the best comprehensive coverage of Midway from the US Perspective.

They disagree on some fine points about the battle.  Shattered Sword's conclusions about the positions of the 4 Jap Carriers during the SBD attack was quite persuasive. 

They also disagree to some extent on why the Japanese had such a horrible defeat.  I think Shattered Sword's criticism of Prager's conclusions were overwrought - because Shattered Sword agreed with Prager but thought Japanese doctrine had led them on this path since they defeated the Russian Fleet back in 1905.  They did not actually refute anything Prager's group said - it was more of "yes, but the problem ran deeper and longer in IJN fleet doctrine."

Both are excellent. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 29, 2020, 10:58:21 AM
About to start Devolution by Max Brooks.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on October 29, 2020, 01:32:41 PM
I just finished "How to be a Dictator" by Frank Dikötter  .  Not a bad book, but it was mostly a review of the careers of some of the major 20th century dictators.  Not a lot of analysis on the commonalities and differences between their paths to power and how they retained it.  I was hoping for more of that.  About to start Ocean's Ventured by John Lehman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 06, 2020, 05:35:46 PM
About to begin The Witchfinder omnibus of graphic novels, by Mike Mignola and a bunch of other artists, inkers, writers, etc. Good stuff. The Baltimore books are awesome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 09, 2020, 04:20:45 PM
Witchfinder was even better than I expected and a quick read. Now 50 pages in to Anno Dracula by Kim Newman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on November 15, 2020, 11:37:59 AM
Just Finished "Live not by Lies" by Dreher.  Just starting "Oceans Ventured" by John Lehman
https://www.amazon.com/Oceans-Ventured-Winning-Cold-War-ebook/dp/B073VXJL99/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2XMXM0G373X0M&dchild=1&keywords=oceans+ventured+by+john+lehman&qid=1605458309&sprefix=Oceans+Ventur%2Caps%2C188&sr=8-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 15, 2020, 01:06:23 PM
I've started Tower of Skulls.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 15, 2020, 01:29:30 PM
Nice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on November 15, 2020, 11:54:18 PM
Quote from: airboy on November 15, 2020, 01:06:23 PM
I've started Tower of Skulls.

Yeah but what are you reading?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on November 16, 2020, 10:34:56 AM
 :2funny:   :clap:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on November 18, 2020, 12:03:30 AM
Finished White Noise by Don DeLillo today.  Incredibly well written and funny novel, though I found the last 1/3rd to drag just a bit before the end.  Regardless, it's absolutely a modern(-ish) masterpiece of American literature and black humor.

Next I want to get started on Tree of Smoke by Denis Johnson, which is a novel set in the Vietnam War about a CIA Psychological Operations official.  Sounds quite intriguing and had pretty strong reception.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 23, 2020, 11:29:45 AM
Just started Paris 1919 by Margaret Macmillan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on November 23, 2020, 11:43:51 AM
Quote from: Gusington on November 23, 2020, 11:29:45 AM
Just started Paris 1919 by Margaret Macmillan.

  The Deluge -- Adam Tooze on 1916 to 1931 as very weird
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on November 24, 2020, 08:27:31 AM
Quote from: Gusington on November 23, 2020, 11:29:45 AM
Just started Paris 1919 by Margaret Macmillan.

That's a good book.  Read that a couple of years ago and remember it being an interesting read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 24, 2020, 08:57:15 AM
I'm about 50 pages in and its dense but written beautifully. The author is David Lloyd George's great-granddaughter so she had access to some incredible primary sources.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on November 24, 2020, 03:29:02 PM
Ooh I did not know that.  (I never read the about the author section of books)

That would explain why it is so well written.  Let us know what you think when you're done. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 24, 2020, 04:57:21 PM
Of course!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on November 27, 2020, 10:22:03 AM
I did not know very much about the Sino-Japanese war in the 1930s.  Tower of Skulls is just horrifying in terms of the loss of Chinese lives.  The rape of Nanking, the flooding of the Yellow River - just horrifying.

It is amazing that the Imperial Japanese Army sent troops into China with no means to feed them and just barely enough logistical train to keep them in ammunition.  It is like Japan is trying to wage modern war with Napoleonics logistics systems.  But from my reading about the US-Japanese war in the Pacific the Japanese Navy only did somewhat better in logistics and the Army was just as bad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on November 27, 2020, 11:27:48 AM
In celebration of GMT's recently released Battle of the Bulge monster game, "A Time for Trumpets", I recently finished Charles MacDonald's book, "A Time for Trumpets".

https://www.amazon.com/Time-Trumpets-Untold-Story-Battle-ebook/dp/B082XGLWSQ/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (https://www.amazon.com/Time-Trumpets-Untold-Story-Battle-ebook/dp/B082XGLWSQ/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=)

The book is a finely detailed telling of the Battle of the Bulge. The author was an infantry officer during the battle, and one of his other books, "Company Commander", is a classic WWII memoir; as a side note, "Company Commander" was still required reading when I went through officer's advanced training in the US Army in the eighties.

"A Time for Trumpets" gets straight to point and does well at describing the entire battle...and that is one of the strengths. Instead of concentrating on just the most well known actions, the book records the fighting by hundreds of small units, often desperate fire fights at the battalion, company or even sometimes the platoon level. This comprehensive approach makes certain the reader sees the whole battle while old "truths" about the battle are often cleared away. For example, Allied airpower was not completely absent during the battle. Even from the first days of fighting, there were occasional breaks in the weather, and the Allied jabos jumped on German columns to telling effect. Kampfgruppe Pieper suffered severe air attacks just days into the battle. Another example of an old "truth" swept away is the idea that the German use of English speaking troops in American uniforms caused havoc. In fact, the "fear" of them caused more panic and confusion than the very few isolated cases where these Germans were actually effective. The biggest thing these troops may have done was to cause Eisenhower's headquarters to "lock-down" for fear of an assassination attempt (while there was some buzz about such an attempt, Eisenhower was never actually a target), somewhat restricting the American leader's effectiveness. 

The book is "just the facts" and has only minimal analysis. The author concentrates on telling "what happened where", while spending less time on "why". It is the kind of book you will want to read with some good maps at your side.

The book has plenty of first hand accounts generously distributed throughout the text. Most of these accounts are American, a few British, some Belgian civilians, and a sprinkling of German. When taken as a whole, these accounts convey a "you are there feel". Many of them showing the true face of war; for example, a Belgian civilian describing some SS grenadiers, who were not hardened Nazis, but just scared boys fresh out of the Hitler Youth. These boys were terrified and began to cry when they were rousted out of their bunks and sent into battle. Overall, because so many of the first hand accounts are American, the book has a noticeable tilt toward the American experience of the battle.   

The book was written back in the eighties so is a little long in tooth as far as Bulge scholarship goes. But analysis and scholarship is not the reason to read this book. Instead, the book is a great blow by blow retelling of the fighting that occurred in the Ardennes during that last December of the war. And for that purpose, it should definitely be read by anyone interested in the battle.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on November 27, 2020, 10:42:59 PM
Quote from: airboy on November 27, 2020, 10:22:03 AM
It is amazing that the Imperial Japanese Army sent troops into China with no means to feed them and just barely enough logistical train to keep them in ammunition.  It is like Japan is trying to wage modern war with Napoleonics logistics systems.  But from my reading about the US-Japanese war in the Pacific the Japanese Navy only did somewhat better in logistics and the Army was just as bad.

Tower of Skulls is eye-opening.

After early 1942, most important campaigns in the Pacific and SE Asia were arguably lost by the Japanese because of poor logistics. The Japanese weren't prepared for the high levels of Allied interdiction by submarines and airpower. In many battles, Japanese troops were half-starved. During the Japanese attack from Burma into India in 1944 for example, the Japanese plans actually depended on "Churchill's rations" (captured supplies) to feed the troops. When the British destroyed the supply depots as they retreated, the Japanese were only able to capture a small amount of what they had planned on. Most of the Japanese starved, and in a weakened state were sent into a rout.

At the same time, the US was giving a master class in how to do logistics over the vast distances of the Pacific. One of the most amazing features of the US logistics chain was that it eventually became a "push", not a "pull" system. In the end, the pure US logistical muscle that the "push" system represented, meant that the Japanese just never had a chance.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 04, 2020, 12:45:30 PM
Send supplies to that island! -- Marines will follow the food.  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 04, 2020, 12:53:15 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on November 27, 2020, 11:27:48 AM
In celebration of GMT's recently released Battle of the Bulge monster game, "A Time for Trumpets", I recently finished Charles MacDonald's book, "A Time for Trumpets".

I'm a fan of Merriman's Dark December; published in 1947 from notes he took interviewing Allied and German troops and officers after the fight. I recall he reached much the same conclusions about the myths of the Bulge as MacDonald does, so it's interesting to see the overlapping corroboration from people who were there (in his case as the chief US Army historian assigned to the Ardennes sector.) Eventually he became a deputy assistant to Ike during the President's administration.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 04, 2020, 12:55:24 PM
The real tragedy is that a lot of Japanese knew they never had a chance like ArizonaTank says and still went to war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Lotti Fuehrscheim on December 04, 2020, 06:53:21 PM
I have been reading selected paragraphs of Claudius Ptolemaeus' Γεωγραφικὴ Ὑφήγησις, commonly known as Geographia.

http://www.nifterlaca.nl/eigen_assets/Saksen/001_Saksen_Bron.html

Why is that interesting?

It is actually the only historical reference to Saxons in the 2nd century, before they start to appear in the historical sources from the 4th century.

However, there are good arguments that this reference appeared as a copying error (through the Greek alphabet) from Aviones, lit. Island People.

The oldest surviving copy of the Geografia was copied in the 13th century, so that was after more than 1000 years of copying the original.

Skipping a load of arguments and an exhausting historical source listing of the name Saxons in the first half of the 1st millennium, the hypothesis is that there was never a tribe of the Saxons. Instead, the word Saxon meant knifebearer, and was used from the 4th century for various groups of aggressively operating Germani all over the Roman Empire, from the Balkans, Northern Italy, Southern Gallia and the coasts of the Southern North Sea.

In that last area a large group of such Saxons ended up, in part because of warring Roman factions who employed them, in Southern England, adopting their 'soldier's name' as the name of their nation. These soldiers originated mainly from the area of the Angles, and their Northern Jutish neighbours.

Once established as petty kings in Britain, the royal dynasties, or more probably their bards, started to create honourable histories on their past, thereby creating a myth of a Saxon tribe at the Elbe estuary. These myths got their own lives and became historical canon in Britannia. Which made the copying error by Mediaeval clerics a logical background.

Why is a tribe of Saxons at the Elbe estuary in the 2nd century problematic?

For one, the Germanic area was rather well investigated and documented in that time, and all other tribes there are mentioned in several places, but these Saxons only appear in that script from Egypt.

But more importantly, the Frankish chronicles from the late 7th century start to call all the Germanics to the North-East of their empire Saxons, and all of Northern Germany ended up as some form of Saxony. But these Lower Saxons (the Saxony in the East arose much later, and is a migrated name) are not descending from the tribes from which members migrated to England.

There is a hard language border between Lower Saxon and Anglian, the ancestor of Frisian and English. With a common tribal ancestry there would have been a dialect continuum between Frisian and Lower Saxon, as they would always have been neighbours with a common past. But there is no such continuum, they are two separate languages with differences that go very deep into time.

Is this somehow important? Well, for me living on the old border of Lower Saxons and Frisians it is somewhat interesting, but for the Anglo-Saxon identity it does change the origins myths quiet a bit.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 04, 2020, 07:42:26 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on December 04, 2020, 12:53:15 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on November 27, 2020, 11:27:48 AM
In celebration of GMT's recently released Battle of the Bulge monster game, "A Time for Trumpets", I recently finished Charles MacDonald's book, "A Time for Trumpets".

I'm a fan of Merriman's Dark December; published in 1947 from notes he took interviewing Allied and German troops and officers after the fight. I recall he reached much the same conclusions about the myths of the Bulge as MacDonald does, so it's interesting to see the overlapping corroboration from people who were there (in his case as the chief US Army historian assigned to the Ardennes sector.) Eventually he became a deputy assistant to Ike during the President's administration.

Interestingly MacDonald gives much credit to Hugh Cole who gave MacDonald much help and advice. Cole wrote two of the official US Army campaign histories of WWII. The best of these was The Ardennes: The Battle of the Bulge. Cole's book is almost required reading if you want to start any serious study of the Bulge.

The Ardennes book by the way is a free download...thanks to the generosity of the US taxpayer... 
https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf (https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf)

And while you are at it, here is Hugh Cole's other book, also free, The Lorraine Campaign
https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf (https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf)

Admittedly these are "official" histories, and therefore present mostly the US side, but I don't really detect any cheerleading in them. There is even an attempt to bring in German information gathered post war. The purpose of the books was mostly to serve as history lessons for future military leaders.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on December 05, 2020, 07:01:58 PM
Just finished Lehman's "Oceans Ventured".  Its not a bad book about the role of the Regan-era Maritime Strategy in ending the Cold War.  However, it feels incomplete.  I think Lehman spent too much time talking about naval exercises without adequately explaining the Maritime Strategy and how it fit into Regan's National Security Strategy.  IMHO,  Lehman wrote a book that spent too little time on  how the maritime strategy was developed.  Alternatively, he could used this book as a section in a larger book about development and execution of Regan's National Security Strategy.  As it is, the book ends up being neither fish nor fowl, as it fails to completely address either the Regan national or maritime strategy, nor the current lessons we can draw from the experience of the USN in the 1980's.

I'm about to state "War and Peace and War: The Rise and Fall of Empires" by Peter Turchin. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 05, 2020, 10:53:34 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on December 04, 2020, 07:42:26 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on December 04, 2020, 12:53:15 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on November 27, 2020, 11:27:48 AM
In celebration of GMT's recently released Battle of the Bulge monster game, "A Time for Trumpets", I recently finished Charles MacDonald's book, "A Time for Trumpets".

I'm a fan of Merriman's Dark December; published in 1947 from notes he took interviewing Allied and German troops and officers after the fight. I recall he reached much the same conclusions about the myths of the Bulge as MacDonald does, so it's interesting to see the overlapping corroboration from people who were there (in his case as the chief US Army historian assigned to the Ardennes sector.) Eventually he became a deputy assistant to Ike during the President's administration.

Interestingly MacDonald gives much credit to Hugh Cole who gave MacDonald much help and advice. Cole wrote two of the official US Army campaign histories of WWII. The best of these was The Ardennes: The Battle of the Bulge. Cole's book is almost required reading if you want to start any serious study of the Bulge.

The Ardennes book by the way is a free download...thanks to the generosity of the US taxpayer... 
https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf (https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf)

And while you are at it, here is Hugh Cole's other book, also free, The Lorraine Campaign
https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf (https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf)

Admittedly these are "official" histories, and therefore present mostly the US side, but I don't really detect any cheerleading in them. There is even an attempt to bring in German information gathered post war. The purpose of the books was mostly to serve as history lessons for future military leaders.

I bought the Battle of the Bulge book on your recommendation.  Lord only knows when it will get to the top of my kindle stack.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on December 06, 2020, 05:28:21 AM
Quote from: airboy on December 05, 2020, 10:53:34 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on December 04, 2020, 07:42:26 PM
The Ardennes book by the way is a free download...thanks to the generosity of the US taxpayer... 
https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf (https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf)

And while you are at it, here is Hugh Cole's other book, also free, The Lorraine Campaign
https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf (https://history.army.mil/html/books/007/7-8-1/CMH_Pub_7-8-1.pdf)

I bought the Battle of the Bulge book on your recommendation.  Lord only knows when it will get to the top of my kindle stack.

All these (and a few hundred more) books are available for free at the US Army Center of Military History : https://history.army.mil/catalog/browse/title.html
Most as PDF (a Kindle can open them) but some also in the EPUB format.

Arranged by topic : https://history.army.mil/catalog/browse/pubnum.html  (Civil War, Vietnam, WWII, WWI, War of 1812 ...)

BUT many of those are also sold online for around $2 :

https://www.amazon.com/Ardennes-Battle-Bulge-Military-History-ebook/dp/B008L1MM7O
https://www.amazon.com/Last-Offensive-Army-Green-Book-ebook/dp/B00BVT454Q
https://www.amazon.com/Guadalcanal-First-Offensive-Military-History-ebook/dp/B008LIRBGE/
https://www.amazon.com/United-States-Army-WWII-Illustrated-ebook/dp/B06XGKPVQS/


And only a few times the other option is mentioned :

The many maps, table and diagrams of the original have been removed to make a portable 'pocket' version for reading on the plane or train.
The complete version is available in PDF from the US Army Historical Center.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 06, 2020, 10:43:01 AM
^ Thanks.  This is amazing.

If you click the link "View this online" for almost everything it takes you to a free pdf download of the book.

Everything I clicked through (I was looking more at WW1 and earlier) was FREE.

Thanks again Pete - you are a wellspring of useful knowledge.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on December 06, 2020, 11:33:20 AM
Quote from: airboy on December 06, 2020, 10:43:01 AM
^ Thanks.  This is amazing.

If you click the link "View this online" for almost everything it takes you to a free pdf download of the book.

Everything I clicked through (I was looking more at WW1 and earlier) was FREE.

Thanks again Pete - you are a wellspring of useful knowledge.

It is the same website ArizonaTank mentioned and yes : everything is free.

And you could have been reading them 3 years ago : http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=21457.msg588937#msg588937  >:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 08, 2020, 09:42:35 PM
Too... many... shiny.... thingggsss!!!  :D

Quote from: airboy on December 06, 2020, 10:43:01 AM
Thanks again Pete - you are a wellspring of useful knowledge.

:notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 08, 2020, 09:45:07 PM
Quote from: Lotti Fuehrscheim on December 04, 2020, 06:53:21 PM
It is actually the only historical reference to Saxons in the 2nd century, before they start to appear in the historical sources from the 4th century.

However, there are good arguments that this reference appeared as a copying error (through the Greek alphabet) from Aviones, lit. Island People.

That was pretty dang interesting, too! I seem to recall Churchill (having read his historical series earlier this year) indicating that the Saxons and Angles were very much not the same people (as a language and culture), and this shone more light on that.  :notworthy:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 08, 2020, 10:02:57 PM
W8 - I'm about 2/3 of the way done with Paris: 1919 and it is one of the best books I've ever read. It is dense and long at 500 pages but every chapter holds interest for me. If anyone has any interest in the First World War or the murky era right afterward, this book is a no brainer. My only regret is that it took me about 10 years after I bought it to start reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 08, 2020, 10:37:40 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 08, 2020, 10:02:57 PM
W8 - I'm about 2/3 of the way done with Paris: 1919 and it is one of the best books I've ever read. It is dense and long at 500 pages but every chapter holds interest for me. If anyone has any interest in the First World War or the murky era right afterward, this book is a no brainer. My only regret is that it took me about 10 years after I bought it to start reading.

Had my eye on this one for a while...so your recommendation tells me I need to get moving on reading it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 09, 2020, 08:59:46 AM
I can guarantee that you will enjoy it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on December 09, 2020, 04:29:10 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 08, 2020, 10:02:57 PM
W8 - I'm about 2/3 of the way done with Paris: 1919 and it is one of the best books I've ever read. It is dense and long at 500 pages but every chapter holds interest for me. If anyone has any interest in the First World War or the murky era right afterward, this book is a no brainer. My only regret is that it took me about 10 years after I bought it to start reading.

Awesome!  I had a feeling you would like the book.  It's a pretty fast read because it is so well written and the content is captivating. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 09, 2020, 04:33:19 PM
Unfortunately it has really kindled my interest in that 'murky era' right after the war so this one book will probably be my entry point to 100 others.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 09, 2020, 05:12:40 PM
Unfortunately, Pyramid of Skulls is so horrifying that I can only read about 10-20 pages at a time.  Japan tries to advance, the Chinese incur millions of total casualties. 

Rinse/repeat.

It is similar to reading the history of Poland starting in 1939 or the History of the Ukraine starting with Lenin's forced starvation.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 16, 2020, 04:01:09 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 09, 2020, 04:33:19 PM
Unfortunately it has really kindled my interest in that 'murky era' right after the war so this one book will probably be my entry point to 100 others.

Relatedly to my previous report, I found Churchill's Aftermath a lot more interesting than I was expecting. Naturally the first part of his WW2 semi-autobiography The Gathering Storm picks up and moves along where that leaves off.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 16, 2020, 04:10:41 PM
Currently reading 'An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Uniforms of World War I' by Jonathan North and Jeremy Black.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 16, 2020, 07:43:55 PM
That book should have it's own... thread.  :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on December 16, 2020, 08:16:51 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 16, 2020, 04:10:41 PM
Currently reading 'An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Uniforms of World War I' by Jonathan North and Jeremy Black.

I love books about uniforms!  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 16, 2020, 09:24:03 PM
I forget if you're a WWI aficionado...if so, you'll love this.

The encyclopedia from the same publisher on uniforms of the ancient Roman world is also great.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 18, 2020, 01:09:48 PM
Man, I'm going to sound like a complete non-Grognard; might have to turn in my card after you see my reading list.

Over the last few months I've nearly completely gone back to physical books, and just a handful of Kindle books.  I'm trying to spend less time online in any format.

So, recently, I've completed everything written by Anthony Bourdain, including his cookbooks.  I've used some of the recipes and the family has been pleasantly surprised with some of the results!  I also read his fiction books; they were good, not great.  Good beach reading for sure, and not a heavy brain pull at all.

From Bourdain's books, he mentioned a number of books he likes and I used that as a stepping stone into some additional reading including Orwell's Down and Out in Paris and London, Zola's The Belly of Paris,  Freeling's The Kitchen Book and The Cook Book, and finally a book that Tony said is one of his favorite novels, Under the Volcano by Malcom Lowry.  Volcano was a tough read.  The introduction had spoilers so I ended up reading it after I finished the book and I realize now I should have read it first.  It was hard to get the context of the story; the introduction really helped clear things up.  Lowry's Volcano was inspired by James Joyce's Ulysses, so I bought that and that's the book I'm currently reading.  Let's be honest here: I am not enjoying Ulysses at all.  But I'm determined to see it through to the end if for no other reason than to be able to make up my own mind if it's a literary masterpiece.  It is easily the hardest book I've ever read, and I definitely see the influence on Volcano.

Prior to starting Volcano, though, I decided to go back and read some classics I've never read.  The last book I finished before I started Ulysses is Orwell's 1984.  That was a very interesting book.  Timely to read in these troubled times.  I didn't care for the back third of the story, but the first third was spectacular. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on December 18, 2020, 01:49:23 PM
^ If you like Orwell, you might consider Homage to Catalonia.  It was one of the best of the half dozen books or so I've read on the Spanish Civil War.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 18, 2020, 04:52:33 PM
^ Thanks for the suggestion.  The version I read has Animal Farm bundled with it, but I'll keep an eye out for the other story.

I remembered, I also read Hemmingway's The Sun Also Rises, and a book called Slaughterhouse Five, which wasn't anything like I was expecting from the title LOL.  I really enjoyed that one.

I wasn't all that impressed with Hemmingway.  There are four novels in the book; next up is A Farewell to Arms
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 18, 2020, 04:58:11 PM
I absolutely HATE The Old Man and the Sea.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on December 18, 2020, 05:29:13 PM
Toonces - Good luck with Ulysses.  I was an English major in college, and I tend to like "difficult" works that make me stop and think over sentences and paragraphs, but Ulysses has just been too much every time I've attempted it.  I haven't managed to get past the first 30 or so pages.  Same with Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon, but I'm a good bit more motivated to try and slog through that one than since GR has a more modern writing style, and is largely about V-2 rockets in WW2.

Kurt Vonnegut was a great writer - if you enjoyed the humorous writing style of Slaughterhouse Five, you'll probably dig his other writings.  I haven't read them, but Deadeye Dick and Cat's Cradle are both highly regarded.

I know what you mean about Hemingway.  I tend to like Hemingway's short stories better than his longer novels, but sooner or later I'd really like to read For Whom the Bell Tolls out of interest of the Spanish Civil War.  I did manage to slog through the end of "The Old Man and the Sea," and the ending was well worth the ride, but boy did the last 2/3 reading feel like a hell of a slog.

I hadn't heard of Under the Volcano, so thanks for the shout there!   O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Lotti Fuehrscheim on December 19, 2020, 05:44:30 AM
Under the Volcano is great. It is the ultimate drunk novel. Fragments of clear insight followed by loss of focus until your head spins and you pass out: never has a novel induced that feeling so clearly. I drank a lot of Mescal while reading that book, back in the days.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 19, 2020, 01:17:40 PM
^ That's a fantastic way of describing Under the Volcano.

I think I'm exactly halfway through Ulysses.  I'm going to finish it, if only so I don't feel any compulsion to try to read it again in the future!

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 20, 2020, 12:57:08 PM
Just started Sturmtruppen: WWI German Stormtroopers 1914-1918 by Ricardo Recio Cardona.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 20, 2020, 04:02:26 PM
They had Stormtroopers as early as 1914? Huh! (Or maybe they didn't but the theories developed against early trench warfare in the Race to the Sea carried over later?)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 20, 2020, 04:11:36 PM
^Not really, but the author is saying that without the stagnation of trench warfare beginning in the fall/winter of 1914, more traditional attack formations would not soon be adopted into 'storm' formations with more modern tactics to come that went with them. Traditional Pioneer and 'Jager' troops would be the first ones to evolve into storm troops.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 20, 2020, 04:30:18 PM
Okay, that's a lot closer to what I thought.  O:-)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 20, 2020, 06:01:02 PM
I do like how the author connected Pioneers, Jagers and the other more traditional types of German troops to the new types. Never read that kind of connection before. Also, this is a big-honkin' coffee table sized book, which I did not know when I bought it, which makes it even more of a cool read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on December 22, 2020, 10:09:35 PM
About 2/3 of the way through the final book "Twilight of the Gods: War in the Western Pacific, 1944-1945" of Ian W. Tool's three part Pacific War series. Really interesting to read about the politics, planning and operations that happened. I especially like the sections about life on the Japanese home front. About 60% of the book is from the American side of the war.

The first two books in the series are also very good: "Pacific Crucible: War At Sea In The Pacific 1941-1942" and "The Conquering Tide: War in the Pacific Islands 1942-44".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 23, 2020, 09:29:38 PM
I've got Pacific Crucible on my giant 'to read' shelf.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 24, 2020, 11:05:29 AM
So I finished, "Children of Ash and Elm: A History of the Vikings" a while back and I've got to say I liked it but didn't fall in love. The author, Neil Price knows more about the Vikings than most people will ever read in a lifetime but the first 2/3 of the book is all about their mythology, customs, clothing, diet, etc., on and on. If you've ever wondered how many different ways the Vikings made bread, THIS is the book for you. It's only after that he gets to what they actually did, and then it's wrapped around the Sagas and their mythology. There's a little about Ragnor, Ironsides, Ericksson and others but not a lot of detail of who did what and when and how. Overall, it's not a bad book, but it is a bit of a struggle to get through the slow parts. My 2 cents.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 24, 2020, 04:15:01 PM
About to start Artillery in the Great War by Paul Strong and Sanders Marble. I can't think of anything more appropriate for Christmas Eve.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 27, 2020, 11:07:13 AM
Artillery in the Great War was very textbook-like. But still somewhat entertaining. Now reading The Paris Gun: The Bombardment Of Paris By The German Long-Range Guns And The Great German Offensives Of 1918 by Henry W. Miller, which is also similar but was written in 1930 so it is also somewhat archaic in its language but still...somewhat entertaining.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2020, 02:30:58 PM
Now reading The Kaiser's Battle by Martin Middlebrook.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: FarAway Sooner on December 28, 2020, 09:28:27 PM
I'm in the midst of two different books that you could loosely classify as "current events".

Breaking the Two-Party Doom Loop (by Lee Drutman) is a book looking at the rise of increasingly polarized partisan politics in the U.S. and how we might all move past the toxic paartisanship that afflicts our democracy today.

Enlightenment Now by Steven Pinker is a book suggesting that the world isn't nearly as horrible a place as US thinkers today believe it to be, and that it's been steadily improving on almost every imaginable front for the last 30-60 years.

Lest I lose too much Grog Street Cred, I did give my brother Zaloga's Armored Thunderbolt for Christmas.  I really just want some pulp sci-fi/fantasy right now, although The Rommel Papers does call me after I finish these two...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 28, 2020, 10:40:24 PM
^If you're into pulpy scifi try Richard Fox.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: fran on December 29, 2020, 08:27:38 AM
Quote from: FarAway Sooner on December 28, 2020, 09:28:27 PM
I'm in the midst of two different books that you could loosely classify as "current events".

Breaking the Two-Party Doom Loop (by Lee Drutman) is a book looking at the rise of increasingly polarized partisan politics in the U.S. and how we might all move past the toxic paartisanship that afflicts our democracy today.

Enlightenment Now by Steven Pinker is a book suggesting that the world isn't nearly as horrible a place as US thinkers today believe it to be, and that it's been steadily improving on almost every imaginable front for the last 30-60 years.

Lest I lose too much Grog Street Cred, I did give my brother Zaloga's Armored Thunderbolt for Christmas.  I really just want some pulp sci-fi/fantasy right now, although The Rommel Papers does call me after I finish these two...

Thanks for these suggestions, looks interesting...

For Fiction, I recently finished the Wall, good end of the world tale.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07HGK1XRS/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07HGK1XRS/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 30, 2020, 11:44:16 AM
Now reading The Bounty Hunter's Code, the third book in the 4-title Star Wars set I bought last January.

Fun fact: I bought the four book set for about 48.00. There is one collector's edition left on Amazon now. Asking price: 2,862.00!!!

Pretty good investment!

https://www.amazon.com/Star-Wars%C2%AE-Secrets-Galaxy-Deluxe/dp/1452159254/ref=pd_ybh_a_12?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=GKK2SESWX6RRH6TFG3MV

Putting these in my safe when I'm finished :)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 31, 2020, 10:36:28 PM
^ Nice!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 31, 2020, 10:37:28 PM
I'd be curious to hear your review of those books, FarAway.  I could certainly benefit from a book purporting a positive outlook for our country's politics.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 31, 2020, 10:40:10 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on December 22, 2020, 10:09:35 PM
About 2/3 of the way through the final book "Twilight of the Gods: War in the Western Pacific, 1944-1945" of Ian W. Tool's three part Pacific War series. Really interesting to read about the politics, planning and operations that happened. I especially like the sections about life on the Japanese home front. About 60% of the book is from the American side of the war.

The first two books in the series are also very good: "Pacific Crucible: War At Sea In The Pacific 1941-1942" and "The Conquering Tide: War in the Pacific Islands 1942-44".

I read this post and was wondering, "why the heck haven't I read these?"

Ironically, my brother gave me the first two volumes for my birthday!  Looking forward to giving them a read; I'm pretty well-read on Pacific WW2 but I'm always interested in new perspectives.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 31, 2020, 10:47:20 PM
Quote from: al_infierno on December 18, 2020, 05:29:13 PM
Toonces - Good luck with Ulysses.  I was an English major in college, and I tend to like "difficult" works that make me stop and think over sentences and paragraphs, but Ulysses has just been too much every time I've attempted it.  I haven't managed to get past the first 30 or so pages. 

Well, I'm still struggling with Ulysses, pretty much the only book I'm reading at this point although I have many others I want to read.  I'm determined, at this point, to simply finish it.  Call it pride.

I can't tell if I'm enjoying it or not.  I can't tell you how many times I've said, ok I'm out, only to keep plowing through and just going simply...because?  I don't even know why.

I'm at this point where Joyce has switched to the style of a play, like Shakespeare, for just because I guess.  He does this.  And I don't know if he's describing a dream, or what's happening, or memories, or some combination of the three (I think it's the last choice, but...I'm just not sure).  And that's the thing: I never quite know what's going on, but I keep reading for some reason.

I'm 3/4 through, and because it was so hard, I feel I have to finish it at this point.  It was too hard to get to this point to give up now.  Sunk costs.

Call me crazy, but I'm thinking of giving Finnegan's Wake a try (with a reader's guide).  Kind of a long-term project, just to see if I can do it.

This is easily the hardest book I've read, though.  If you want to challenge yourself to stretch your mind and comfort zone, this would be a hard book to beat.  Volcano was easier, but if you can read half of Ulysses, Volcano will make much more sense.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 01, 2021, 09:55:56 PM
Now starting the Star Wars Imperial Handbook, the 4th in the set. Then I throw them all in the safe. The Bounty Hunter's Handbook was very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on January 01, 2021, 10:07:07 PM
Quote from: Toonces on December 31, 2020, 10:47:20 PM
Quote from: al_infierno on December 18, 2020, 05:29:13 PM
Toonces - Good luck with Ulysses.  I was an English major in college, and I tend to like "difficult" works that make me stop and think over sentences and paragraphs, but Ulysses has just been too much every time I've attempted it.  I haven't managed to get past the first 30 or so pages. 

Well, I'm still struggling with Ulysses, pretty much the only book I'm reading at this point although I have many others I want to read.  I'm determined, at this point, to simply finish it.  Call it pride.

I can't tell if I'm enjoying it or not.  I can't tell you how many times I've said, ok I'm out, only to keep plowing through and just going simply...because?  I don't even know why.

I'm at this point where Joyce has switched to the style of a play, like Shakespeare, for just because I guess.  He does this.  And I don't know if he's describing a dream, or what's happening, or memories, or some combination of the three (I think it's the last choice, but...I'm just not sure).  And that's the thing: I never quite know what's going on, but I keep reading for some reason.

I'm 3/4 through, and because it was so hard, I feel I have to finish it at this point.  It was too hard to get to this point to give up now.  Sunk costs.

Call me crazy, but I'm thinking of giving Finnegan's Wake a try (with a reader's guide).  Kind of a long-term project, just to see if I can do it.

This is easily the hardest book I've read, though.  If you want to challenge yourself to stretch your mind and comfort zone, this would be a hard book to beat.  Volcano was easier, but if you can read half of Ulysses, Volcano will make much more sense.

I think you got sucked in by the English Majors.  Ulysses violates almost all tenants of good writing.  It is so obtuse, English majors can feel superior.  Falkner is another one who became more and more difficult to interpret in his books.  Clear writing with clear themes is hard and worthwhile.  Writing something difficult to interpret is not something I would spend my time doing.  Confession: I read about 100 pages and dropped it like hot iron.  I finished a couple of Faulkner novels assigned to me, and got angered when people who only read the Cliff notes tested out better.  Decided I had gotten sucked in by the English Professors.

But if it makes you happy and feel like you have accomplished something worthwhile, by all means keep beating your head against the Ulysses wall.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on January 01, 2021, 10:17:52 PM
^ I get the frustration there, but I can't help feeling like you had some pretty crappy literature professors if CliffNotes managed to teach the text better than them.  I think Joyce and Faulkner were geniuses, but..... yeah, their writing gets rather "masturbatory" for lack of a better word, especially in their later years.

The thing that makes literature "difficult" or "obtuse," especially with Joyce, is that the text is absolutely decked out with layers upon layers of allusions and references, and you have to be ABSURDLY well read to understand all the subtext without a reading guide off-hand.  Even very well read people tend to read texts like Ulysses supplemented by reading guides or explanatory text, because otherwise they know they're just banging their head against a bunch of obtuse references to stuff they've never read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on January 03, 2021, 02:44:26 PM
Working my way through Red Victory, A History of the Russian Civil War by W.Bruce Lincoln. I think I may need a flowchart and a whiteboard to keep up with all the factions that were involved.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2021, 03:50:14 PM
About to start Thrawn by Timothy Zahn, the first of the three most recent books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 05, 2021, 11:39:46 AM
Currently reading and enjoying:

Japanese Destroyer Captain, the memoir of Tameichi Hara who captained Japanese destroyers and a cruiser in WWII. It is one of the relatively few such books in English. It is interesting that he heaps blame for the early major defeats on Yamamoto. The book is well written, interesting and I don't get a sense of any smugness that sometimes comes over in German officer memoirs...the old: 'we could have easily beaten the Russians for you, if you had just let us.'

also reading

The Immortal Irishman, the biography of Thomas Francis Meagher, who became a brigadier general in the Union Army and led the Irish Brigade. Interesting guy...he was a Irish revolutionary, who was tried by the British and sentenced to life internment on Tasmania. He escaped Tasmania, and found himself in New York, eventually to become a larger than life figure in the Civil War. After the war he became Governor of the Montana Territory.

Recently finished:

Embracing Defeat, an excellent book on Japan during the US Occupation. I'll put down some impressions later, since I thought it was a very eye-opening book.
https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-Defeat-Japan-Wake-World/dp/0393320278/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2T731NAX66WAN&dchild=1&keywords=embracing+defeat&qid=1609863671&sprefix=embracing+d%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-Defeat-Japan-Wake-World/dp/0393320278/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2T731NAX66WAN&dchild=1&keywords=embracing+defeat&qid=1609863671&sprefix=embracing+d%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-1)

also recently finished:

The People Who Eat Darkness, a completely different kind of book for me. It was recommended by a friend, and I enjoyed it. Basically it is about famous serial rape / murder case in Japan from twenty years ago. A young British girl in her 20s, was drugged, raped and killed by a guy who can only be described as truly evil. The book is a great window into the modern Japanese police force, the judicial system, and the Japanese underworld.

Finally, just because I decided to go for something completely different, I am just starting:

Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 05, 2021, 11:48:00 AM
oops, double post
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on January 06, 2021, 12:55:50 AM
On the topic of those infamous "difficult" books, I'm working my way through The Sound and the Fury by Faulkner.  Finished the POV section of Benjy the mentally handicapped son, which takes up about 1/5 of the text.  I enjoyed it, but found it very difficult to follow.  Compared to someone like Joyce the language is very simple and understandable, but what makes the text difficult is the abruptly nonlinear narrative.  It jumps around between Benjy's childhood, teenage years, and adulthood in a stream-of-consciousness manner that is easy to understand in individual pieces, but difficult to connect into a coherent bigger picture.  Even in my confusion though I did find this works in rendering a mentally handicapped character's POV.

I got 80% of the way through Benjy's section before getting utterly frustrated by the character Quentin seemingly switching genders depending on whether it's Benjy's early years or later years... only to look up the Wikipedia article and learn there are two characters named Quentin.  I skimmed the synopsis (including a character list with some spoilers) before finishing Benjy's section and then re-reading the first few pages, and felt like everything came together in a way that is satisfying and logical.  It just takes a long time to get there if you're not using a secondary source like Wikipedia for reference.

I'm onto Quentin (male)'s POV section which I've heard is even more difficult to follow, as it tries to render the thought process of a highly intelligent and gifted individual in this family.  Once I'm through that, my understanding is that Jason and Dilsey's chapters are much more digestible and everything comes together in a more coherent way.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on January 09, 2021, 09:11:05 PM
I was browsing around my local B&N and saw, "Sid Meier's Memoir!".  I had no idea he wrote a book about his career developing games. It was 50% off so I grabbed it. Looks really good.

I met him a couple times at Comic Cons back in the wargamer.com days. Really nice guy.

https://www.amazon.com/Sid-Meiers-Memoir-Computer-Games/dp/1324005874 (https://www.amazon.com/Sid-Meiers-Memoir-Computer-Games/dp/1324005874)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on January 13, 2021, 08:49:40 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on January 09, 2021, 09:11:05 PM
I was browsing around my local B&N and saw, "Sid Meier's Memoir!".  I had no idea he wrote a book about his career developing games. It was 50% off so I grabbed it. Looks really good.

I met him a couple times at Comic Cons back in the wargamer.com days. Really nice guy.

https://www.amazon.com/Sid-Meiers-Memoir-Computer-Games/dp/1324005874 (https://www.amazon.com/Sid-Meiers-Memoir-Computer-Games/dp/1324005874)

Wishlisted. 

Never met Sid.  Met Gary Gygax, Dave Arneson, and heard most of the old time Comic book writers at various Cons.  Steve Jackson is both nice and very interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on January 13, 2021, 08:51:23 AM
Quote from: al_infierno on January 06, 2021, 12:55:50 AM
On the topic of those infamous "difficult" books, I'm working my way through The Sound and the Fury by Faulkner.  Finished the POV section of Benjy the mentally handicapped son, which takes up about 1/5 of the text.  I enjoyed it, but found it very difficult to follow.  Compared to someone like Joyce the language is very simple and understandable, but what makes the text difficult is the abruptly nonlinear narrative.  It jumps around between Benjy's childhood, teenage years, and adulthood in a stream-of-consciousness manner that is easy to understand in individual pieces, but difficult to connect into a coherent bigger picture.  Even in my confusion though I did find this works in rendering a mentally handicapped character's POV.

I got 80% of the way through Benjy's section before getting utterly frustrated by the character Quentin seemingly switching genders depending on whether it's Benjy's early years or later years... only to look up the Wikipedia article and learn there are two characters named Quentin.  I skimmed the synopsis (including a character list with some spoilers) before finishing Benjy's section and then re-reading the first few pages, and felt like everything came together in a way that is satisfying and logical.  It just takes a long time to get there if you're not using a secondary source like Wikipedia for reference.

I'm onto Quentin (male)'s POV section which I've heard is even more difficult to follow, as it tries to render the thought process of a highly intelligent and gifted individual in this family.  Once I'm through that, my understanding is that Jason and Dilsey's chapters are much more digestible and everything comes together in a more coherent way.

Read it and hated it.  Understand why he wrote it that way, and it is gifted.  But I read a ton for work and other than that - I want clear and entertaining.

But I'm glad you enjoyed it.  I appreciated the writing, while hating it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: airboy on January 13, 2021, 09:30:31 AM
I've finished a half dozen books in the last 30 days.  The one of interest here is:

The Doughboys: America and the First World War by Gary Mead.

This was interesting.  The first part of the book was about Woodrow Wilson versus the pro-war faction of US Politics and the political maneuverings around the entry of the USA into the war.

The USA was making an absolute fortune supplying the Entente (and the rest of the world) as a huge manufacturing and agriculture supplier who was not absorbed in war production.  There was not a lot of public sentiment for entering WW1 (aside from some of the elites).  Yes, a handful of people volunteered from the USA and fought for the Canadians, UK or the French (almost none for Imperial Germany).  But the USA was really not interested in it.

The UK had a killer blockade on Germany, but skillfully managed to cut cable communications with Germany and prohibit almost all cabled news reports from Germany.  Thus, the US public was skillfully fed one side's view of the conflict.  The Brits were masters of Propaganda in both World Wars.  Submarine warfare was a desperate attempt by Germany to offset the amazingly effective British blockade - and their side of the story was very hard to get to America (had to go by ship, not cable).

Wilson did an about-face, and amazingly Congress voted overwhelmingly for War in 1917.  Honestly, I still don't understand it - but war weariness was not big since that last major war the USA had been involved in was half a century ago.

The USA raised an army out of largely nothing.  And had nearly nothing to equip them with.

Most of the book focuses on the political maneuvering between Pershing and the British and the French.  The Brits and the French largely wanted the USA to send infantry and machine gunners - and nothing else to France.  They wanted to put these units piecemeal into the lines under British or French command.  Pershing wanted US troops to fight under US Commanders.  The USA also lacked the merchant marine to get the AEF to Europe - and the Brits actually demanded top dollar to send the troops.  Yet another point of bickering.

US troop training was weak, in part due to a lack of weapons and officers/noncoms skilled in trench warfare.

The US military leaders were immediately sacked by Pershing if they failed to take objectives - regardless of casualties.  Almost unbelievable from today's perspective.

The US military felt screwed by the Brits for not using their merchant marine, and screwed by the French who told the USA not to send supply troops or transport - and then did not provide the logistics support (mules, horses and trucks) to feed and resupply US troops.

Having read so much about US Logistics in WW2 and how it was superior to everyone else, the utter supply debacle and the trust the US had in the Brits and the French to supply logistics was just appalling.   US troops in the field suffered from a lack of food and water because the supply situation was so amazingly screwed up.

The author makes the point that the Entente could not have won without US support - in supply at least.  He also makes the point that by 1917 the French would not advance and the Brits were about out of men.  By 1918 the USA had a third of the total troops in France, and the majority of troops that would actually engage in offensive operations (due to French war fatigue). 

I enjoyed his statistical analysis of casualties, logistics, etc.....  which drove some of the political bickering points home.

This is more of a book about politics (Wilson/Congress/US Public and Pershing/UK/French) than it is about strategy or tactics.  It has a lot about supply and training - since the USA was building an army of millions from almost nothing.

I enjoyed it.  The supply horrors for the AEF were eye opening (to me).  I tired of the endless political bickering between Pershing and top UK/French commanders and political leaders.  Wilson had no real reason for his turn to asking Congress for war.  Congress voting so strongly for war in Europe makes little sense to me in retrospect.

The book is reasonably well written.  There are some redundant parts and a few editing mistakes.  This is a real warning sign if you are considering reading this.  I usually do not notice editing problems because I "read it like it should be written, not as it is written).  That makes it harder for me to notice such things.

In sum, this is a good book for politics, large scale economics, supply and training.  Very poor for tactics.  Pretty poor for strategy.  I got it on sale at a deep discount and learned a lot about aspects of the war that I knew little about.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 13, 2021, 10:08:58 AM
^Sounds worthwhile to read, thanks for posting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on January 13, 2021, 09:09:08 PM
Quote from: airboy on January 13, 2021, 08:51:23 AM

Read it and hated it.  Understand why he wrote it that way, and it is gifted.  But I read a ton for work and other than that - I want clear and entertaining.

But I'm glad you enjoyed it.  I appreciated the writing, while hating it.

BTW, apparently James Franco went full "Simple Jack" with this one IRL.   :2funny:





Hmmm... I feel like I saw this in Tropic Thunder...  :-"



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 18, 2021, 07:05:48 PM
Now reading The Great Bear at War - The Russian and Soviet Army 1917-Present by Chris McNab.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 27, 2021, 11:37:04 PM
The Breaking Point: Sedan and the Fall of France 1940 by Robert Doughty. Very tactical.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: rustyshackleford on January 27, 2021, 11:45:27 PM
"Killing Crazy Horse: The Merciless Indian Wars in America" - absolutely brutal and barbaric acts from both sides.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 28, 2021, 11:31:29 AM
I read that one too Rusty. Great book, one of O'Reilly's best.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 29, 2021, 10:37:34 AM
Just started The Last Panther by Wolfgang Faust.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: z1812 on January 30, 2021, 08:34:49 AM
I am reading The Mirror and the Light. Which is the Final Book in the Wolf Hall trilogy by Hilary Mantel. The writing is excellent. Very atmospheric. I am also reading A Dangerous Fortune by Ken Follet. It chronicles the upper class life in Victorian England. Definitely a pot boiler, but pleasant and easy reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 30, 2021, 12:51:59 PM
Always wanted to read Wolf Hall and anything by Ken Follett. One day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 04, 2021, 09:28:23 AM
Just started the graphic novel series Uber by Kieron Gillen and Caanan White.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on February 04, 2021, 10:38:34 AM
Quote from: z1812 on January 30, 2021, 08:34:49 AM
I am reading The Mirror and the Light. Which is the Final Book in the Wolf Hall trilogy by Hilary Mantel. The writing is excellent. Very atmospheric. I am also reading A Dangerous Fortune by Ken Follet. It chronicles the upper class life in Victorian England. Definitely a pot boiler, but pleasant and easy reading.

   Sounds good!  I'm reading YA fiction cuz I have YA kids ( 7 and 10 which seems to be YA...I guess at 6 and 9 they were in Middle Grade books)...I recommended And I Darken to my daughter as "it has lots of impaling!"...Nope.  She prefers time-traveling goddesses and who can blame her?

   Speaking of time travel -- I'm kind of interested in phytosaurs (there's a whole room of their monstrous skulls in Albuquerque) so...Triassic Life on Land: the Great Transition is on the extra chair to peek at while waiting for games to load.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: z1812 on February 04, 2021, 11:21:46 AM
Quote from: MengJiao on February 04, 2021, 10:38:34 AM
Quote from: z1812 on January 30, 2021, 08:34:49 AM
I am reading The Mirror and the Light. Which is the Final Book in the Wolf Hall trilogy by Hilary Mantel. The writing is excellent. Very atmospheric. I am also reading A Dangerous Fortune by Ken Follet. It chronicles the upper class life in Victorian England. Definitely a pot boiler, but pleasant and easy reading.

   Sounds good!  I'm reading YA fiction cuz I have YA kids ( 7 and 10 which seems to be YA...I guess at 6 and 9 they were in Middle Grade books)...I recommended And I Darken to my daughter as "it has lots of impaling!"...Nope.  She prefers time-traveling goddesses and who can blame her?

   Speaking of time travel -- I'm kind of interested in phytosaurs (there's a whole room of their monstrous skulls in Albuquerque) so...Triassic Life on Land: the Great Transition is on the extra chair to peek at while waiting for games to load.

It is so good for Children to be encouraged to read when they are younger. It really opens up opportunities for them, not to mention developing vocabulary and articulation. The the thing I know most about Dinosaurs, is that I am slowly turning into one..........  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 05, 2021, 09:52:34 AM
Just started Tank Warfare on the Eastern Front 1943 - 1945: Red Steamroller by Robert Forczyk.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 05, 2021, 11:00:55 AM
Wolf Hall is fantastic.  I still haven't gotten to the other books in the series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 05, 2021, 11:04:47 AM
I recently finished Toll's Pacific Crucible and The Conquering Tide.  Very good, and some interesting insights that I hadn't read before.  I have Twilight of the Gods queued up, but I might hold off on it to read some other books for a bit.

I've been working through The Official History of the Falklands War, but it's somewhat slow going.  It's a very long book, and it's quite detailed.

With respect to Ulysses, I got within 20 pages of the end and bagged it.  For those that don't know, the last like 50 pages of the book are one long run-on sentence from the perspective of the protagonist's wife.  I stuck with it for way, way too long, got the gist, and called it complete.  I'm just going to go ahead and say I'm glad it's over, and I have no desire to ever read that book again.  I did not enjoy the experience.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on February 05, 2021, 11:07:52 AM
I'm just about finished with Fighter Pilot, the Memoirs of Legendary Ace Robin Olds. It is a fantastic book about a remarkable individual. i find that books about fighter pilots have the best anecdotes about life. Olds was a real character and a born leader. Highly recommended.

https://www.amazon.com/Fighter-Pilot-Memoirs-Legendary-Robin/dp/0312569513 (https://www.amazon.com/Fighter-Pilot-Memoirs-Legendary-Robin/dp/0312569513)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on February 05, 2021, 11:23:51 AM
Saw an episode of "Air Warriors" on The Smithsonian Channel about the F4 Phantom and they had a segment on Robin Olds and his role in Vietnam specifically Operation Bolo.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 05, 2021, 11:29:15 AM
Quote from: Gusington on January 30, 2021, 12:51:59 PM
Always wanted to read Wolf Hall and anything by Ken Follett. One day.

This reminds me, I have the well-received adventure-game adaptation of Follet's Pillars of the Earth sitting around in my Steam library, and should get back to it someday. (I played it just long enough to get into the introduction, with the family in the snow in the woods trying to find something to eat, and liked it for that little bit but never got back to it.)


Meanwhile, aside from a couple other books, I'm finally back on Churchill's The Gathering Storm, about halfway through now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on February 05, 2021, 11:30:06 AM
Quote from: WallysWorld on February 05, 2021, 11:23:51 AM
Saw an episode of "Air Warriors" on The Smithsonian Channel about the F4 Phantom and they had a segment on Robin Olds and his role in Vietnam specifically Operation Bolo.

Funny you mention...if there is one criticism I have about the book it is that the chapter on Bolo is surprisingly brief. There is a fair amount of detail about the initial idea and the planning, but the actual description of the battle is extremely brief. I was really surprised and a little disappointed. Otherwise though, a really great and worthwhile read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 05, 2021, 04:48:55 PM
Recently finished The War Below: The Story of Three Submarines that Battled Japan by James Scott

https://www.amazon.com/War-Below-Story-Submarines-Battled/dp/1439176833/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1612559910&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/War-Below-Story-Submarines-Battled/dp/1439176833/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1612559910&sr=1-2)

This was a very enjoyable, and sometimes tense story of the USS Silversides, Drum and Tang. Three of the highest scoring US submarines in the Pacific. The book focuses on the boats and so describes the various skippers and crew who came and went during the course of the war.

The book does a great job describing the various patrols, the skippers, crew and the changing operational environment. Early war was target rich, but dud torpedoes, and the Navy's resistance to understanding the problem caused some skippers to quit. Mid-war, the Japanese started to pay attention to convoys and convoy escort methods and technologies. Late-war, there were very few cargo ships left, and skippers on patrol had trouble finding targets.

The narrative veers off course now and then...for example spending a bunch of time describing Midway; not really a submarine battle. But, these sections do help to fill in the overall course of the war, so aren't too off base.

The book does not strictly discuss war patrols. On the Tang's last patrol, literally the last torpedo in its lockers went wild, turned around and hit the Tang, sinking it in 128 feet of water off Formosa. Amazingly a handful of the crew were able to use the escape chamber to escape the sunken boat. The book describes the harrowing escape and subsequent internment in a Japanese POW camp. I was not even aware that those escape chambers ever really worked. I found this section to be very compelling reading.

Anyway, if you are interested the submarine war against Japan (from the US side), then this book is a sure bet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 07, 2021, 12:26:50 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 05, 2021, 09:52:34 AM
Just started Tank Warfare on the Eastern Front 1943 - 1945: Red Steamroller by Robert Forczyk.

HA!  Im almost done with the 41-42 book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 07, 2021, 01:00:01 PM
^I read the first one last winter. They are almost like textbooks for armor nerds, but somehow I love them. Tons of interesting WWII Eastern Front armored combat tidbits.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: PeaceFlower on February 07, 2021, 05:58:50 PM
Finished,  "The Age of Wood: Our Most Useful Material and the Construction of Civilization"

A really good book in the same genre as Mark Kurlansky's
"Salt". Being that it takes an ordinary thing (wood) and tells
it's history throughout time, how it connects to other things
in surprising ways. You will be guaranteed to learn
some fascinating tidbits.

My favorite was how the the Royal Navy used manual labor to manufacture the wooden blocks their sailing ships required.
(Those wooden things that hold ropes/pulleys). So, some
chap decided to automate the process by building a steam
powered machine that automated the process. This  was
the first assembly line "Machine Tool". It reduced labor required by tenfold.

Most unusually, this machinery remained in continuous use from the early 1800's until 1964.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 07, 2021, 06:12:21 PM
^That's pretty interesting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: z1812 on February 10, 2021, 10:51:16 AM
As an aside re: wood. I read this the other day. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/scientist-create-transparent-wood-as-clear-as-glass/ar-BB19J7oR
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 10, 2021, 10:07:59 PM
^ The chemical used, Polyvinyl Alcohol, is one of the ingredients in Elmers Glue. Dissolves in water, which could be problem if it rains on your nifty transparent balsa sunroof.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 11, 2021, 11:33:21 PM
Im sure that, much like Windy, theres a chemical that makes it far stiffer and resilient to moisture.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 14, 2021, 11:41:09 AM
Currently reading Luftwaffe Secret Projects: Ground Attack & Special Purpose Aircraft by Dieter Herwig and Heinz Rode.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on February 14, 2021, 11:45:18 AM
Just finished Fighter Pilot this morning. Had me in tears.

The last couple of pages were written by General Olds in 2007, shortly before his death. He describes a reoccurring dream where he is flying in the clouds in his F-4 at full burn. He rolls out and lands. The airbase is empty. He climbs out of the cockpit and hears music and laughter coming from the O Club. He walks in and sees all his old friends who have already passed. His father, a pioneer of military aviation himself, is at the piano playing. They meet and he tells his dad that he was a fighter pilot and his father tells him he knows and is so very proud. They all sing, laugh, dance and tear the place up right before setting off into the clouds again for another Mig sweep.

It is exactly how I picture these heroes crossing over to the other side.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 14, 2021, 11:54:59 AM
Wow, nice.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on February 14, 2021, 04:26:59 PM
Unmasked: Inside Antifa's Radical Plan To Destroy Democracy

by Andy Ngo, the gay Vietnamese man whose parents had to flee Communist Vietnam after spending time in "re-education" camps.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on February 14, 2021, 08:48:58 PM
^ That sounds like a very well-balanced, fair, and non-partisan take on the issue.  Good thing you mentioned he's gay or I might be questioning his credibility!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on February 14, 2021, 09:02:25 PM
Edit: Nevermind.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on February 15, 2021, 01:01:57 AM
reminds me of the time we were passing around Gus.  :-X
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on February 15, 2021, 08:13:44 AM
Outside of some RPGs on the Kindle, I'm kinda light in the reading department - got a delightfully dense work on the Spanish Civil War (title and author escapes me as the physical book is sitting in the truck right now) and my fascination with the Eastern Front circa WW2 continues via The Russo-German War 1941-45 by Albert Seaton.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 15, 2021, 12:57:08 PM
Now reading Historical Atlas of the Viking World by Angus Konstam.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on February 15, 2021, 01:03:03 PM
Having just finished Fighter Pilot, I've moved on to "When Thunder Rolled," which is an account of the 1966 Rolling Thunder bombing campaign written by an F-105 pilot who was there. It's cool because he was in Robin Olds' AO flying out of Thailand and probably flew on some of the same missions in which Olds and his squadron were flying MIG CAP. I've already recognized some of the same names. Pretty cool.

I also started a book called, "The White Sniper" about Simo Hayha, but I'm having trouble getting into it. The author is a currently serving Finnish sniper. It is not written in the most engrossing format and there are some issues with editing, probably due to language or translation issues. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 15, 2021, 11:48:29 PM
Inspired by a post from Smuckatelli, I am re-reading "The Good Soldier Svejk" (also spelled "Schweik"). 

It is basically a mix of "Catch 22" and "No Time for Sergeants", but set in the WWI Austro-Hungarian Army. Since it was written just after WWI, it may well be partial inspiration for both of those books.

Having a great time with it...

The book is well past its copyright, and is available for free as a PDF download from archive.org if anyone is interested.
https://ia801600.us.archive.org/27/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.220415/2015.220415.The-Good.pdf (https://ia801600.us.archive.org/27/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.220415/2015.220415.The-Good.pdf)

I'll post my thoughts when I am done with it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on February 17, 2021, 01:53:20 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 16, 2020, 04:10:41 PM
Currently reading 'An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Uniforms of World War I' by Jonathan North and Jeremy Black.

Looked at that book and ended up buying it and two others.  Super thanks for posting about it here.

I started with "An Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Uniforms of the Roman World" by Kevin F. Kiley. Super enjoying it and the drawings are excellent. Makes me want to play Total War: Rome II.

The other uniform book I got was "An Illustrated Encyclopedia of Military Uniforms of the 19th Century".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 17, 2021, 06:30:17 PM
I just finished Rising Sun, Falling Skies: The Disastrous Java Sea Campaign of World War II by Jeffrey Cox.

It examines the naval aspects of the early war Japanese campaign to take the Philippines, Singapore, and the Dutch East Indies.

I knew the highlights like the sinking of the Repulse and the Prince of Wales, the defeat of the ABDACOM ships,  and dugout Doug's flight from the Philippines to Australia but I knew almost nothing about the details or personalities involved, especially the Dutch.   I found it very informative and easy to read.  The author readily admits his anti-Japanese bias in the preface and that bias does surface repeatedly which j personally found to be somewhat detrimental to the book but I'd still say its well worth reading.

I have several titles in the 2nd World War at Sea series of games from Avalanche Press and enjoy the games quite a bit.  One of the upcoming titles, Java Sea, covers this campaign.  I was going to give it a miss because the several games in the series that I already own don't see enough table time and I thought the battles would be very lopsided with the IJN just swatting aside the ABDA units.  I think I might pick it up after all (along with the upcoming Norway title.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 17, 2021, 08:48:36 PM
You're welcome WallysWorld. I've read the Roman World book as well - both are excellent. I don't have the 19th century one.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on February 17, 2021, 09:11:24 PM
Quote from: Gusington on February 17, 2021, 08:48:36 PM
You're welcome WallysWorld. I've read the Roman World book as well - both are excellent. I don't have the 19th century one.

Shit...I might need to pick those up. Not cheap though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 17, 2021, 09:29:50 PM
I can't believe you didn't have them already!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on February 17, 2021, 10:12:39 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 17, 2021, 06:30:17 PM
I just finished Rising Sun, Falling Skies: The Disastrous Java Sea Campaign of World War II by Jeffrey Cox.

It examines the naval aspects of the early war Japanese campaign to take the Philippines, Singapore, and the Dutch East Indies.

I knew the highlights like the sinking of the Repulse and the Prince of Wales, the defeat of the ABDACOM ships,  and dugout Doug's flight from the Philippines to Australia but I knew almost nothing about the details or personalities involved, especially the Dutch.   I found it very informative and easy to read.  The author readily admits his anti-Japanese bias in the preface and that bias does surface repeatedly which j personally found to be somewhat detrimental to the book but I'd still say its well worth reading.

I'll have to check that book out. I read 'The Lonely Ships' by Edwin Hoyt a decade or two ago and it really brought out the hopelessness of the ABDA fleet's situation, cut off from the support of their home countries and right in the path of the Japanese steamroller. It will be interesting to see what research has been added in the 30 years since Hoyt's book came out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 18, 2021, 09:19:28 AM
I read a ton of Hoyt back 25+ years ago when I was still in college - he was one of my favorite authors.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on February 18, 2021, 10:33:06 AM
I read "Rising Sun, Falling Skies: The Disastrous Java Sea Campaign of World War II" early last year. Excellent book and truly shows what long odds ABDA faced in early 1942. Interesting, but also depressing at the same time.

"The Lonely Ships" is a good title for what happened to the ADBA vessels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2021, 09:22:56 AM
Now reading Wolves of the North by Harry Sidebottom, Book 5 in the ancient Roman adventure series featuring everyone's favorite grumpy agent of the Emperor, the fabulously named Ballista.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on February 22, 2021, 10:52:30 AM
I hear he's a real Big Shot.  :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 22, 2021, 10:56:56 AM
 :buck2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 24, 2021, 03:10:42 AM
In Passage Perilous: Malta and the Convoy Battles of June 1942 by Vincent O'Hara.  I'm about 4 chapters in.  It's very interesting so far. 

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51reCRVQr+L.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: solops on February 24, 2021, 11:14:16 AM
Still reading "The Wandering Inn" web serial!

https://wanderinginn.com/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on February 25, 2021, 07:01:55 PM
I've started Ezra Carman's 3 volume set "The Maryland Campaign of September 1862."  He led a regiment at Antietam, and after the war spent much of his adult life studying the battle.  It is a very detailed account of the campaign, particularly from the Union side.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 25, 2021, 10:37:38 PM
I just finished "The Immortal Irishman: The Irish Revolutionary Who Became an American Hero"

https://www.amazon.com/The-Immortal-Irishman-audiobook/dp/B01B57R8PQ/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=immortal+irishman&qid=1614306703&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/The-Immortal-Irishman-audiobook/dp/B01B57R8PQ/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=immortal+irishman&qid=1614306703&sr=8-1)

This book is a biography of Thomas Francis Meagher (pronounced ma'r) who is best known as the Commanding General of the Union's Irish Brigade during the Civil War.

The book starts with his life as a well-to-do, educated young man in 1840s Ireland, who was appalled by Britain's callous response to the potato famine. He soon ran afoul of British law by writing and giving Irish patriot speeches. He was arrested and given a death sentence, that was commuted to lifetime banishment to Tasmania along with other Irish rebels.

After a few years, he managed to escape and found himself in New York. By the advent of the Civil War, he was a famous orator and lawyer. He joined the "Fighting 69th," a pre-war regiment of mostly Irish immigrants from New York. Meagher fought with the 69th at Bull Run, distinguished himself, and soon found himself leading the regiment. He then put his influence into helping to raise Irish immigrants into a full brigade of mostly Irish regiments. He soon found himself leading this 'Irish Brigade,' and fought with his unit at Antietam.

He also led the Irish up the slope at Fredericksburg to attack Marye's Heights. The brigade took 60% casualties. By this time, the Irish immigrants were losing faith in the war, and Meagher could not raise many more Irish troops. Casualties had whittled the Irish brigade down to the size of a weak regiment (the Irish Brigade was actually disbanded after Gettysburg due to casualties) and General Meagher took a staff position in Tennessee for the rest of the war. Politics also likely played a part, since while Meagher got along famously with McClellan and Lincoln, he always clashed with Sherman and got a bit of a cold shoulder from Grant (probably because of his association with McClellan).

After the war, Meagher was appointed to a senior Federal post in the Montana territory. As the senior official in the territory, Meagher became Acting Governor, and held that position for nearly two years. He immediately clashed with anti-immigrant, anti-Catholic vigilantes who ruled the territory through lynch mobs. He gradually started to get the upper-hand. But one evening, he was on a river boat, and either was pushed, or fell into the river, never to be seen again. Years later, a dying criminal confessed to having been paid by vigilantes to push Meagher in...but after a short while, he recanted his story. By the turn of the century, Butte, Montana had become the largest Irish town west of the Mississippi and Meagher's story and relation to Montana, made his local fame grow. There is a statue of Meagher outside of the State Capitol in Helena.       

While I enjoyed the book, I can only give it a guarded recommendation. For someone interested in the story of the Irish in America, or the Irish rebels of the 1840s, this book is an no brainer. But if you are interested in the Fighting 69th or the Irish Brigade, the book will likely leave you feeling a little cheated. I felt the description of the battles, and the role of these Irish units to be somewhat rushed. The book probably spends more words on his imprisonment in Tasmania than it does on the Civil War. To be fair, the book covers his entire life, but still, Meagher's leadership in the Civil War was one of his great contributions to the nation and deserves more space (IMHO) than the author gives.

But like any good book, it did teach me things. The book paints vivid pictures of Ireland in the 1830s, of Tasmania and of New York in the 1840s and 1850s. For me, these were good reasons to keep reading on.

One interesting piece of information in the book was that Meagher insisted on having the Irish Brigade use smooth bore muskets. This was so that the troops could load buck and ball loads for a shotgun effect. This also meant the Irish had to get very close for their fire to be telling.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 26, 2021, 09:30:33 AM
^Thanks for the writeup, sounds like a great title.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 05, 2021, 08:03:13 PM
I've been on a bit of a reading tear lately, although as usual I'm slow to actually finish a book.  Kinda like my gaming....   ::)

Most recently, though, I finished a book called Outrage by Vincent Bugliosi.  The book is about the OJ Simpson trial and Bugliosi absolutely eviscerates the prosecution.  I read this book a long time ago, maybe as much as 20 years ago? and for some reason decided to give it a second read a few weeks ago.  I remember truly enjoying the book the first time I read it (which is why I've been lugging it around for the last 20 years I suppose) but I didn't enjoy it nearly as much this time around.  In a way, Bugliosi reminds me of our own Groghead, Jarhead.  He pulls no punches, doesn't sugarcoat things, and tells it like it is.  However, in Bugliosi's case in Outrage, I felt he came across quite arrogant.  Not so much an after-the-fact quarterback, he still has the strong benefit of hindsight, and his "example" arguments to the jury are, to my mind, annoying.  If a lawyer spoke to me like he speaks in his scripts, I'd be very annoyed very quickly.

Still, Bugliosi makes a very, very strong case on how OJ could have been convicted on his statement to the police alone.  The fact that there was just so much overwhelming evidence of his guilt, and yet he was still found not-guilty, remains mind-boggling.  I find my curiosity of this trial piqued all over again, and I just checked out The Run of His Life by Toobin to read some more about this trial.

Outrage is a good book, but you have to go into it knowing what you're getting yourself into.  It's very much an opinion book, and Bugliosi is a bit full of himself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on March 05, 2021, 08:16:27 PM
Quote from: Toonces on March 05, 2021, 08:03:13 PM
I've been on a bit of a reading tear lately, although as usual I'm slow to actually finish a book.  Kinda like my gaming....   ::)

Most recently, though, I finished a book called Outrage by Vincent Bugliosi.  The book is about the OJ Simpson trial and Bugliosi absolutely eviscerates the prosecution.  I read this book a long time ago, maybe as much as 20 years ago? and for some reason decided to give it a second read a few weeks ago.  I remember truly enjoying the book the first time I read it (which is why I've been lugging it around for the last 20 years I suppose) but I didn't enjoy it nearly as much this time around.  In a way, Bugliosi reminds me of our own Groghead, Jarhead.  He pulls no punches, doesn't sugarcoat things, and tells it like it is.  However, in Bugliosi's case in Outrage, I felt he came across quite arrogant.  Not so much an after-the-fact quarterback, he still has the strong benefit of hindsight, and his "example" arguments to the jury are, to my mind, annoying.  If a lawyer spoke to me like he speaks in his scripts, I'd be very annoyed very quickly.

Still, Bugliosi makes a very, very strong case on how OJ could have been convicted on his statement to the police alone.  The fact that there was just so much overwhelming evidence of his guilt, and yet he was still found not-guilty, remains mind-boggling.  I find my curiosity of this trial piqued all over again, and I just checked out The Run of His Life by Toobin to read some more about this trial.

Outrage is a good book, but you have to go into it knowing what you're getting yourself into.  It's very much an opinion book, and Bugliosi is a bit full of himself.

Did you happen to catch the OJ Simpson interview with Judith Regan? It aired in 2006, but had been filmed in 1994, I think, to promote his book, "If I did it". It wasn't aired at the time because of public outcry from the Goldman family and from prosecutor Christopher Darden. The interview is jaw-dropping. He essentially confesses to the murders. It is so bizarre. Totally a must see.

If you're interested in trial stuff, there is a lot of it out there. Trial advocacy is much more art than science. I've had the pleasure of attending some Continuing Legal Education courses with some of the best trial attorneys in the country. Some of them just blow me away. There is no activity that can match the drama, suspense, unpredictability, stress and anxiety of a trial. My friend, Tim Parlatore, who was the lead trial attorney for Chief Eddie Gallagher will tell you just how unpredictable a trial can be when a witness admitted on the stand that he was the one who killed the wounded enemy combatant for whom Chief Gallagher was on trial for murder. Admissions like that on the stand are so rare and may come perhaps once...maybe twice in a career. 

While I certainly think trial advocacy can be taught and learned, to truly excel at it, you just have to have a gift.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 07, 2021, 02:12:01 PM
Now reading The Castles of Wales by Lindsay Evans.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: z1812 on March 07, 2021, 06:30:15 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 07, 2021, 02:12:01 PM
Now reading The Castles of Wales by Lindsay Evans.

That sounds interesting. How are you enjoying it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 07, 2021, 09:29:38 PM
It is very academic and detailed so far, with a lot of place names intertwined that I have never heard of...but still somehow enjoying it. It is also more wide ranging than I thought it would be...it covers about 1000 years of history from just before the Norman conquest up until the Victorian era. It's not meant to be read straight through (the intro even states that explicitly) but more as a reference. There are some very good plates, sketches and paintings included too. So, for a book I bought for 3.50 at a rural used book store I would say I got my money's worth.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 08, 2021, 07:27:36 PM
My wife dug out a copy of a Stephen King book that contains three novels: Carrie, Salem's Lot, and The Shining.  I've read Salem's Lot and The Shining lots of times, but for some reason I never read Carrie.  I understand that it was King's first big hit.  Anyway, I started reading it yesterday and finished it today and quite enjoyed it.  It's definitely not quite as polished as his later novels, but you can definitely see the distinctive King style in it.

I think I'm going to go ahead and read the other two novels now that I have the book out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 08, 2021, 08:06:40 PM
Salem's Lot is great. The Shining is a modern classic. And I love both movies too. Never read Carrie but the movie always freaked me out. The original...never saw the remake.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 13, 2021, 03:59:37 PM
Now reading The Oxford Illustrated History of the Vikings edited by Peter Sawyer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 20, 2021, 11:10:52 AM
Now reading Historical Atlas of the Celtic World by Angus Konstam.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 20, 2021, 11:26:13 AM
^ Man, you really crank through 'em, Gus.

I'm reading The Run of His Life by Toobin about the OJ Simpson trial on Kindle.

I'm also reading Twilight of the Gods, third in the Pacific War series by Ian Toll, and re-reading The Third World War by Hackett, which I never have finished.  I'm enjoy Hackett much more this time around and feel pretty sure I'll finish it this time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 20, 2021, 12:33:17 PM
Love to read, bruh.

I have Pacific Crucible on my to-read shelf. Will eventually get to Twilight of the Gods. Also have Neptune's Inferno waiting.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 20, 2021, 12:54:38 PM
I would recommend Neptune's Inferno first.  That's a great book; we used several chapters of it in our NWC syllabus.

The first two books of the Pacific trilogy were really good.  There are a lot of new perspectives presented.  But Twilight really drags for the first 100 pages; a lot of discussion of the press and the DC conference of 1944.  I finally, finally got through that part but it caused me to shelve the book for several weeks and move on to other, more interesting books.

Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors is also very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 20, 2021, 03:58:09 PM
Yeah? That is sad to hear about Twilight of the Gods.

Got it on Neptune's Inferno - may read that this summer.

I've just entered a fall of Rome/Dark Ages kick, have a huge stack, and don't know much about that era, roughly 400AD-1000AD.

Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors has been popping up in my Amazon recommendations forever!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on March 20, 2021, 06:44:02 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 20, 2021, 03:58:09 PM
Yeah? That is sad to hear about Twilight of the Gods.

Got it on Neptune's Inferno - may read that this summer.

I've just entered a fall of Rome/Dark Ages kick, have a huge stack, and don't know much about that era, roughly 400AD-1000AD.

Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors has been popping up in my Amazon recommendations forever!

"Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors" is great.  Not a hard read, and definitely worth your time.  It describes an incredible battle.  Just to whet your appitite: Read the following starting about half way down the following page, in the section titled "In Harm's Way: The Battle off Samar" https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/wars-conflicts-and-operations/world-war-ii/1944/battle-of-leyte-gulf/calmness-courage-and-efficiency.html#E
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 20, 2021, 10:42:27 PM
Thanks Tripoli!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on March 20, 2021, 11:57:19 PM
Just finishing "Aces Falling" by Peter Hart

https://www.amazon.com/Aces-Falling-Above-Trenches-2007-08-09/dp/B01MSLPXI7/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=aces+falling&qid=1616299973&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Aces-Falling-Above-Trenches-2007-08-09/dp/B01MSLPXI7/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=aces+falling&qid=1616299973&sr=8-1)

This book covers the last year of the war in the air during WWI. The late air war was completely different from 1916 or 1917. Large formations of 60 and 70 aircraft often dominated the sky. Ground support and interdiction became very important roles for fighters. For example, a common mission was tank support. This is where fighters flew ahead of the tanks looking to expose and take out anti-tank guns. Many British squadrons started to specialize and exclusively fly only certain types of missions during this period; night fighting, or ground strafing as examples.

The title refers to the fact that the importance of individual aces was diminished in 1918, and in fact, many of them were killed or put out of action in the last year. The book makes the point, that a pilot who caused havoc by strafing a road choked with horse teams moving guns up to the front, probably had greater affect on the war than a lone wolf ace on a dawn patrol.

The author tells the story mainly through first hand accounts, but backing up the main points with statistical information. Many times he tells a story by letting several witnesses tell their side of the same story, or by backing it up with official reports. Another nice touch is that many times the author mentions the names of those shot down.

Overall, the author does a good job of melding the strategic ground situation with the types of missions that the air units were flying. A nice bonus is that he spends time letting us hear the first hand accounts of the parts of the air war not often covered; photo reconnaissance, observation balloons, anti-air gunnery, tactical and strategic bombing. I particularly enjoyed the first hand accounts of strategic bombing into Germany since it made WWI almost look like the early years of WWII.   

While I enjoyed the book I felt it was often too focused on British forces. French air forces are barely mentioned. US air forces get a bit of discussion, with Frank Luke and Eddie Rickenbacker taking center stage for a bit. While there are German voices, the Richthofen brothers seem to be the most prominent. 

Still, overall, I think it is a great read, covers its subject well, and makes for very interesting reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 21, 2021, 12:55:07 AM
For as much as I love flying biplanes, I really don't know anything at all, practically, about WW1 in any aspect...including the air war.

Can you recommend a good book on the WW1 air war?  I'm not entirely sure what I'm looking for...something that gives me the flavor of the air war, with a bit of context of course, focusing on the planes, pilots, and strategies. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on March 21, 2021, 08:39:15 AM
Quote from: Toonces on March 21, 2021, 12:55:07 AM
For as much as I love flying biplanes, I really don't know anything at all, practically, about WW1 in any aspect...including the air war.

Can you recommend a good book on the WW1 air war?  I'm not entirely sure what I'm looking for...something that gives me the flavor of the air war, with a bit of context of course, focusing on the planes, pilots, and strategies.

Toonces-here is a link to some WWI aviation books I have on my drive. https://we.tl/t-TkuaB3BrNr  They are no longer under copyright.  I believe they were originally posted by "RAF_Louvert" over at the WOFF forum in 2010, but I can't seem to find the post.  They include the following:

Biogrophies, Diaries, Personal Writings

"14,000 Miles Through the Air", by Captain Ross Smith, c.1922

"Air Men O'War", by Boyd Cable, c.1918

"Fighting the Flying Circus", by Eddie Rickenbacker, c.1919

"Guynemer, The Ace of Aces", by Jacques Mortane, c.1918

"Luck on the Wing", by Major Elmer Haslett, c.1920

"The Flying Poilu", by Marcel Nadaud, c.1918


References:

"Aircraft Mechanics Handbook", c.1918

"How To Fly", by A. Frederick Collins, c.1918

"Orders, Decorations, and Insignia", by Colonel Robert E. Wyllie, c.1921

"The American Air Service", by Arthur Sweetser, c.1919

"A Flying Fighter", by E.M. Roberts, c.1918

"An Aviator's Field Book", the field notes of Oswald Bolcke, English Edition c.1917

"Flying For France", by James R. McConnell, c.1917

"Heroes Of Aviation", by Laurence La Tourette Driggs, c.1918

"Night Bombing With the Bedouins", by Robert H. Reece, c.1919

"The Red Battle Flyer", by Manfred von Richthofen, English Edition c.1918


References:

"Aircraft Of Today", by Charles C. Turner, c.1917

"Information for Air Service Mechanics", by The U.S. Air Service, c.1919

"Practical Flying", by W.G. McMinnies, c.1918

"The Romance Of Aircraft", by Laurence Smith, c.1919

Biogrophies, Diaries, Personal Writings

"Above The Battles", by C.H.A. Andre, c.1919

"En l'air!", by Bert Hall, c.1918

"Green Balls: The Adventures Of a Night-Bomber", by Paul Bewsher, c.1919

"Letters of an American Airman", by Captain Hamilton Coolidge, C.1919

"The Fledgling", by Charles Bernhard Nordhoff, c.1919

"With the Flying Squadron", by Flight Lieutenant Harold Rosher, c.1916


References:

"Military Aeroplanes" by Grover C. Loening, c.1917

"The Aero Manual", c.1909

"The German Air Force in the Great War", by Georg Paul Neumann, c.1920

"Wings of War", by Theodore Macfarlane Knappen, c.1920


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 21, 2021, 10:08:32 AM
Thank you ArizonaTank and Tripoli. WWI and WWI aviation are some of my favorite military history subjects.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on March 21, 2021, 10:39:27 AM
Here's a download link to "The Lafayette Flying Corps" by Nordhoff and Hall  Both of the authors were members of the squadron, and Nordhoff is a fairly good writer, later writing "The Mutiny on the Bounty".  I'm also including links to "High Adventure" and "The Fledgling" by the same author.

Toonces-As an aviator yourself. you may find the book  "Practical Flying" by W.G. McMinnies, (in the collection I uploaded) interesting.  It is amazing how much, yet in some ways how little aviation has changed in 100 years.

https://archive.org/details/TheLafayetteFlyingCorpsvolume1

https://books.googleusercontent.com/books/content?req=AKW5QafTKWxP4pgjyjoryZ0wdj_b_38-5fphAaJvFsGnw_y9qCBkacc1sFe_B-gL0jZQ3obzQ29PefpaqoNoakNc1NuL3GyMW57n1cYoVOlImJb6QKz1jWXORIq5OwBMGLPCtMfCLQIZwJpR7GkrutCmD3LVTF78jlHN5io4cmNMEUd7lj1g643FOJ0kINPda2GGLlT01Kle0F0K_OBh_QvsrF59_gAVvXHH0OqVvRXSpYvYM9wmT4a3MJX4qXrP57YufhIEkv3RYgSEWmTmKc_U_QPCRTyYrw

https://books.googleusercontent.com/books/content?req=AKW5Qadfz73tOAJbaeIWqTEEcXC8vTKResGKiQydi3rf1Y6tUFkF_qpqw6fUCCP2Mv4kDXeXCElP7O2gXsYyqBnEGqCe3SUHIdP5ho-EH_mTJJCV208QCCL-87-dXmK2X5n2hPVpGC_tmozhgGqJch1jQfcNkkjfBvVcrx2lzC9b9nbaHjUITeexUhRYiGo88bE5biD7aitiSED7rGdVNdFDRtHhn_PXsKM1EcEetmyuNJ8-pKgNtkSshicH9m6TzZZls7zikoQ2


https://books.googleusercontent.com/books/content?req=AKW5QacxcYYmTRazK6CVj5TNxBwaqasQgUzreisUlY_ePUVBFH4mwT5dOhX-h-LfBDKXCjcYeQV9dE9ZjZr6eHj_8lhemNdM64HkZKIdtz2FIewBk4qLgT7AS9hW-tBQS3CLKRvdtM5jZ2EdemMm8Z0tMSk9cUCeze5NXlnlQCNjSd7ECgr5orfKZO5Ry_-Lbaskf14_enLt7SfdQgwvt89ZGotHWAFbUJ0rvPf-bVVK3LUXTBEsAO2lm4tCh-l05hxE6FpDlPJD
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on March 21, 2021, 11:02:02 AM
Quote from: Toonces on March 21, 2021, 12:55:07 AM
For as much as I love flying biplanes, I really don't know anything at all, practically, about WW1 in any aspect...including the air war.

Can you recommend a good book on the WW1 air war?  I'm not entirely sure what I'm looking for...something that gives me the flavor of the air war, with a bit of context of course, focusing on the planes, pilots, and strategies.

In addition to the great contemporary books that Tripoli points out, I recommend "Bloody April" by Peter Hart.

While it covers only a relatively short period of the war in the air (spring 1917), it is probably the most iconic period. The rise of von Richthofen and a brief period when German aircraft were superior to most of their Allied counterparts. The book is full of first hand accounts, as well as descriptions of the aircraft, strategies, and the men. 

If you have a Kindle account, you can get an electronic version of the book for the amazing price of $3.99.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on March 24, 2021, 08:53:43 PM
I picked up Operation Barbarossa: the Complete Organisational and Statistical Analysis, and Military Simulation, Volume I by Nigel Askey.  A monumental tome of data about the Eastern Front for the fervent Ostdork in your life.   :P

QuoteIn June 1941 the German Wehrmacht launched Operation Barbarossa: the attack on the USSR and the largest land invasion in recorded history. The titanic battles that followed led to the greatest loss of life ever experienced in a military campaign. Since the end of WWII there has been intense discourse about the key operational and strategic decisions made by the German and Soviet high commands on the East-Front, especially during the critical period from July to September 1941.

Operation Barbarossa: the Complete Organisational and Statistical Analysis, and Military Simulation focuses on 1941 - when the USSR came closest to defeat. It includes full analyses of the belligerents' armed forces, weapons, equipment, personnel, transport, logistics, war-production, mobilisation and replacements. Uniquely, the work formalises a sophisticated military simulation methodology extending from the tactical to the strategic level, and applies this methodology to each of the belligerents. Volume I, the first of six volumes, is primarily concerned with the structure of this methodology, but uses many of the events and weapons from Operation Barbarossa as illustrative case studies. The complete work represents the most historically accurate, advanced and comprehensive quantitative analysis yet, of the 1941 campaign on the East-Front.

Operation Barbarossa: the Complete Organisational and Statistical Analysis, and Military Simulation is the culmination of over ten years of research and collation. It brings together an immense amount of information from many published and unpublished sources, and presents it with contextual history and analyses. The professional researcher or amateur scholar of WWII is provided with a comprehensive data source, containing the details of all the armed forces involved on the East-Front during 1941, as well as the relevant economic and logistical support. Currently no other single work provides a comparable reference of the actual Soviet and Axis land, air and naval forces involved in what was the most decisive and destructive campaign of WWII.

https://www.amazon.com/Operation-Barbarossa-Organisational-Statistical-Simulation-ebook/dp/B07859FQ1D/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=nigel+askey&qid=1616636939&sr=8-3
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on March 24, 2021, 09:16:46 PM
How are the maps and charts in that?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on March 24, 2021, 09:46:16 PM
I don't think there are any maps, since it's very data oriented and focuses on the TO&E and how to quantify things like weapon system effectiveness for simulation purpose.  There are 22 tables, graphs, and charts that are all meaty yet clean and easy to read.  I bought a Kindle version so unfortunately a couple graphs are super tiny to fit on the screen, but most of them are legible.  You don't save a huge amount of money going for the Kindle version over the hard copy, so it might be worth just springing the extra few bucks for the proper "flipping through a manual" experience.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 27, 2021, 10:34:33 AM
Just began The Winter King by Bernard Cornwell.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on March 27, 2021, 11:39:45 AM
Just finishing "Japanese Destroyer Captain by Tameichi Hara.

https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Destroyer-Captain-Guadalcanal-Battles/dp/1591143845/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NJXT8O4YXJWB&dchild=1&keywords=japanese+destroyer+captain&qid=1616861305&s=books&sprefix=japanes+destroyer%2Caps%2C218&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Destroyer-Captain-Guadalcanal-Battles/dp/1591143845/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NJXT8O4YXJWB&dchild=1&keywords=japanese+destroyer+captain&qid=1616861305&s=books&sprefix=japanes+destroyer%2Caps%2C218&sr=1-1)

This is one of the best WWII naval war books I have read...let alone that it is by a Japanese naval officer. The narrative flows well, and the descriptions of combat are detailed and easy to follow.

Hara was a destroyer captain through much of the war. He had a brief stint at the torpedo school, but he ended the war in charge of a light cruiser. Unlike some of the other post-war Axis memoirs, you know the old...'we could have beaten the Russians if you had only let us,' Hara is critical of his nation's pursuit of war. He does downplay atrocities, but does not deny them. He also calls the performance of his own admirals, and those of the Allied forces as he sees them. He has no problem criticizing or praising both the Allies and the Japanese forces. He also criticizes his own performance at times. 

One of the most striking lessons for me from the book was that the Americans beat the Japanese not just with greater numbers, but better technology. In 1942, the Japanese dominated night surface actions with their superior long lance torpedoes, and more coordinated maneuvers. But by late 1943, the Americans had superior radar fire control, that stripped the Japanese of all of these advantages. Hara describes seeing very accurate night fire take apart a Japanese cruiser with hardly any misses. 

One of the interesting things about the book is that Hara comes across as a guy you might want to have a beer with, rather than a stoic 'samurai.' He describes many of his relationships with fellow officers and men in human, rather than professional terms. For example, he agonized over having to ask his students at the torpedo school if any of them wanted to volunteer for Kamikaze torpedo boat units...Hara thought it was a terrible waste. This makes the overall book compelling to read.

For anyone interested in WWII naval combat, I think Hara's book is a must read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on March 27, 2021, 12:08:39 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on March 27, 2021, 11:39:45 AM
Just finishing "Japanese Destroyer Captain by Tameichi Hara.

https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Destroyer-Captain-Guadalcanal-Battles/dp/1591143845/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NJXT8O4YXJWB&dchild=1&keywords=japanese+destroyer+captain&qid=1616861305&s=books&sprefix=japanes+destroyer%2Caps%2C218&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Destroyer-Captain-Guadalcanal-Battles/dp/1591143845/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NJXT8O4YXJWB&dchild=1&keywords=japanese+destroyer+captain&qid=1616861305&s=books&sprefix=japanes+destroyer%2Caps%2C218&sr=1-1)

This is one of the best WWII naval war books I have read...let alone that it is by a Japanese naval officer. The narrative flows well, and the descriptions of combat are detailed and easy to follow.

Hara's book is a must read, if you are interested in WWII Pacific.  I've have it on my bookshelf since 1972, when my 4th grade teacher gave me it to read (yes, I was a very strange child, but that is a different story  ;D)  To give you an idea of how good it is, I believe it was originally published by Bantam Books in the late 1950's.  When they stopped publishing it in the 1990s, it was picked up by the Naval Institute Press, a publishing house that caters to the professional military audience.    For those who haven't read it, you should if you have an interest in the WWII Pacific theater.  Here is a recent review: https://inverarity.livejournal.com/273654.html

Edit: Apparently, it was Ballantine Books that originally published it in 1961.  There is a National Defense University  Review of the book here: https://web.archive.org/web/20110716120630/http://www.jfsc.ndu.edu/college_resources/JOR/recall_roster.pdf
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: solops on March 27, 2021, 01:03:23 PM
+1
I have had Hara's book since college in the 70s and have read it many times. I recall thinking how it changed the way I thought of every other WW2 Pacific book I have read before or after.
.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on April 01, 2021, 10:38:39 AM
The first 2 books of a 4 book series about the ACW by Jeffery Wm Hunt, " Meade and Lee After Gettysburg" and "Meade and Lee at Bristoe Station". Should be good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on April 01, 2021, 04:35:02 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on April 01, 2021, 10:38:39 AM
The first 2 books of a 4 book series about the ACW by Jeffery Wm Hunt, " Meade and Lee After Gettysburg" and "Meade and Lee at Bristoe Station". Should be good.

Thanks for mentioning these.  I hadn't heard of them before but they are now on my ever growing Kindle wishlist.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on April 01, 2021, 10:01:22 PM
The third book in the series, I can't remember the title, just came-out recently.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 03, 2021, 02:06:18 PM
Just started You Are Invited by Sarah A. Denzil.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on April 03, 2021, 03:55:53 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on March 20, 2021, 11:57:19 PM
Just finishing "Aces Falling" by Peter Hart


  Sounds marvelous!  I'm reading a commentary on the Iliad to get a little of the old spear-in-the-bronze-thing kick into my Dungeons and Dragons thing.  I've gotten to book IV and so far things are just getting stranger and stranger as Alexandros (the name of Paris in most places in the Iliad) is being dragged along by his helmet when Aphrodite miraculously zips him off to re-seduce Helen.  Helen is extremely annoyed with the whole thing but everyone else is about to just stop the war for lack of interest.  Zeus has to get the war restarted since the duel has been broken up by Aphrodite, so he sends Athena (as a meteor "Pallas" apparently being the meteoric version of Athena -- apparently a real meteor at some point) to get Pandourous to shoot Menelaus with an arrow thus violating the truce and thus getting the war underway, though at some point Hera has to threaten to eat somebody's liver just to get the action moving.  I wonder if this was all supposed to be sort of comical?  I mean in 700 BC when it was probably performed by large choruses of temple maidens imitating various weird accents -- more like a 1930s musical extravaganza than your basic grim tale of war.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 03, 2021, 09:23:02 PM
Quote from: MengJiao on April 03, 2021, 03:55:53 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on March 20, 2021, 11:57:19 PM
Just finishing "Aces Falling" by Peter Hart


  Sounds marvelous!  I'm reading a commentary on the Iliad to get a little of the old spear-in-the-bronze-thing kick into my Dungeons and Dragons thing.  I've gotten to book IV and so far things are just getting stranger and stranger as Alexandros (the name of Paris in most places in the Iliad) is being dragged along by his helmet when Aphrodite miraculously zips him off to re-seduce Helen.  Helen is extremely annoyed with the whole thing but everyone else is about to just stop the war for lack of interest.  Zeus has to get the war restarted since the duel has been broken up by Aphrodite, so he sends Athena (as a meteor "Pallas" apparently being the meteoric version of Athena -- apparently a real meteor at some point) to get Pandourous to shoot Menelaus with an arrow thus violating the truce and thus getting the war underway, though at some point Hera has to threaten to eat somebody's liver just to get the action moving.  I wonder if this was all supposed to be sort of comical?  I mean in 700 BC when it was probably performed by large choruses of temple maidens imitating various weird accents -- more like a 1930s musical extravaganza than your basic grim tale of war.

I would not be surprised if it was supposed to be comical. There really isn't anything 'new under the sun.'  My favorite example is Melius Gloriosus the over the top Roman general in "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Forum" ("Stand aside everyone! I take large steps"' that guy). Turns out Melius is right out of a Roman comedy from the 2nd century BC, as are several of the other characters. So your book sounds like some comic fun.

Here is the Wikipedia entry for the play; "Melius Gloriosus"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_Gloriosus_(play) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_Gloriosus_(play)) 

And if you have never seen it, here is his hilarious entrance in "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum", well worth you time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vN-ttCBHyx8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vN-ttCBHyx8)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 03, 2021, 10:56:25 PM
I'll always wonder whatever happened to the pretty brunette at the back of one of my college English classes, who caught up to me after one class a few weeks into the semester, to tell me she also thought Hector was the true hero of the Illiad, after I devoted an essay to that in class -- which our teacher asked me to read aloud so that he could mock it, as he thought! She was impressed with how well I defended it, and we talked it over on our walk up the hill to the big pyramid library at UTK, but there she got into a Camaro parked nearby, waving back to me and saying she'd see me next class.....

...but she never came back to class for the rest of the semester, and I never saw her again. sigh. I hope nothing awful happened to her, but I have to wonder.

Several years later I read Chesterton's The Everlasting Man for the first time, and learned he also agreed! (This idea also appears briefly in Chesterton's commentary on the Canterbury Tales, as I discovered a few minutes ago while ascertaining my memory was correct and I hadn't been thinking of his Heretics/Orthodoxy duology instead.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on April 04, 2021, 10:29:54 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 03, 2021, 10:56:25 PM
I'll always wonder whatever happened to the pretty brunette at the back of one of my college English classes, who caught up to me after one class a few weeks into the semester, to tell me she also thought Hector was the true hero of the Illiad, after I devoted an essay to that in class -- which our teacher asked me to read aloud so that he could mock it, as he thought! She was impressed with how well I defended it, and we talked it over on our walk up the hill to the big pyramid library at UTK, but there she got into a Camaro parked nearby, waving back to me and saying she'd see me next class.....

...but she never came back to class for the rest of the semester, and I never saw her again. sigh. I hope nothing awful happened to her, but I have to wonder.

Several years later I read Chesterton's The Everlasting Man for the first time, and learned he also agreed! (This idea also appears briefly in Chesterton's commentary on the Canterbury Tales, as I discovered a few minutes ago while ascertaining my memory was correct and I hadn't been thinking of his Heretics/Orthodoxy duology instead.)

You could write a short story about that vignette.  Seriously.  It is an excellent jumping off point for a short story.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 04, 2021, 12:23:47 PM
If I wrote a short story on that, I'd hint that she was Athena, I think.  :dreamer: (i.e. Wisdom in Christian theology.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on April 04, 2021, 02:14:45 PM
Seriously, you are a good writer.  If you had the time and inclination to do so, that would be a good short story, made even better because it is based on a real-life event.  With your knowledge of history and literature, you could do something with that vignette.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 04, 2021, 04:18:22 PM
'The Girl in the Black Camaro' by Pratt. It writes itself!  :nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on April 05, 2021, 07:47:48 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 04, 2021, 12:23:47 PM
If I wrote a short story on that, I'd hint that she was Athena, I think.  :dreamer: (i.e. Wisdom in Christian theology.)

  The problem there is of course Athena is not very pro-Trojan...though after the sack she is not happy with the violation of her sanctuary if I remember correctly.  I guess there is room for an Divine Wisdom Athena in a black Cammero.  And it is odd that the last pagan temple Christianized in Rome was the Temple of Minerva in about 750 AD.  She could time-travel in that Camero and run over some Roman prelates in 620 AD thus saving the temple etc. etc. and also avoiding going back to English class.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 05, 2021, 02:45:11 PM
Ah, true, she wouldn't be pro-Trojan. Or pro-Hector, more relevantly. (Theoretically you could be anti-Trojan and still think Hector is the true hero of the Illiad.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on April 05, 2021, 07:11:42 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 05, 2021, 02:45:11 PM
Ah, true, she wouldn't be pro-Trojan. Or pro-Hector, more relevantly. (Theoretically you could be anti-Trojan and still think Hector is the true hero of the Illiad.)

   Another problem is that in the very beginning of the Iliad, the invocation specifies that the story is about the anger of Achilles.  I guess Achilles could be the main character and Hector could be the "good guy" or best character or nifty antagonist, but the poet (the monumental poet as G. S. Kirk calls the author of the big version focused on the anger of Achilles that we have as the Iliad) thinks the story is about the anger of Achilles.  Of course the big final version incorporates at least 500 years worth of material and legends and whatnot and the "anger of Achilles" is more of a plot device maybe than the real core of the story.

   Even stranger, some commentators think that Achilles does in fact belong to the near final layers and is not one of the original heroes, but then that would lead one to think that both Hector and Achilles were added as more rounded characters later with Hector as a foil to Achilles, which probably means, given who Achilles' mother is, that there's a strange invisible phase in the transformation of the whole Archaic divine world...the only trace of which would be in the Spartan poet Alcman...yes, they found a fragment of his on papyrus in a crocodile mummy (you can't make this stuff up) where Thetis created the world...yes as part of one of those extravaganzas put on by the temple maidens...you know...like the Iliad.  But maybe one of the more serious ones....

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcman


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 06, 2021, 11:49:27 AM
Oh we agreed that the poem (in its received form) was ABOUT Achilles as the main character. That's obvious on the face, and throughout the structure, although you could also argue for several deutero-protagonists.

I do that myself in my novel: the main protagonist, Portunista Athalia, doesn't show up until chapter 2, although she's mentioned in the (fictional) Preface as a key reason why the novel is being written (by the fictional Preface Author). But she's often a villain protagonist for a while, even though her support crew are heroic secondary protagonists. Then Book 2 comes around, and (aside from numerous and increasing villainous antagonists) I introduce 'ista's counterpoint, a heroic antagonist named Gavoda who functions VERY much like Hector, in the sense of being a morally better person in charge of defending a city attacked by Portunista's army -- and going down in flames. (Which corresponds to 'ista's low point morally. Afterward I develop their characters in opposition by showing 'ista's moral development and Gavoda's moral ruin progressing along.)

Now of course, one factor in the Hector/Achilles main hero debate, is how concepts of the heroic have changed since the Illiad (at any level of compositional development); a change that can be arguably seen in process for the Odyssey, and which kicks over not-coincidentally for Virgil's remix of the Odyssey following Aeneas the refugee from fallen Troy. Classical heroes weren't so much moral exemplars as people who succeeded in causing the effects they intended with their power (up until any tragic flaws take them down through hubris or whatever), and so who served as practical and idealistic examples in that sense.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on April 06, 2021, 03:23:00 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on April 06, 2021, 11:49:27 AM
Oh we agreed that the poem (in its received form) was ABOUT Achilles as the main character. That's obvious on the face, and throughout the structure, although you could also argue for several deutero-protagonists.

I do that myself in my novel: the main protagonist, Portunista Athalia, doesn't show up until chapter 2, although she's mentioned in the (fictional) Preface as a key reason why the novel is being written (by the fictional Preface Author). But she's often a villain protagonist for a while, even though her support crew are heroic secondary protagonists. Then Book 2 comes around, and (aside from numerous and increasing villainous antagonists) I introduce 'ista's counterpoint, a heroic antagonist named Gavoda who functions VERY much like Hector, in the sense of being a morally better person in charge of defending a city attacked by Portunista's army -- and going down in flames. (Which corresponds to 'ista's low point morally. Afterward I develop their characters in opposition by showing 'ista's moral development and Gavoda's moral ruin progressing along.)

Now of course, one factor in the Hector/Achilles main hero debate, is how concepts of the heroic have changed since the Illiad (at any level of compositional development); a change that can be arguably seen in process for the Odyssey, and which kicks over not-coincidentally for Virgil's remix of the Odyssey following Aeneas the refugee from fallen Troy. Classical heroes weren't so much moral exemplars as people who succeeded in causing the effects they intended with their power (up until any tragic flaws take them down through hubris or whatever), and so who served as practical and idealistic examples in that sense.

   The novel sounds intriguing.  Looking at how people control their plots can be very instructive!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 08, 2021, 02:35:09 PM
The full published text can be found here on the forum as a pdf file, btw!

http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=14075.0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 15, 2021, 12:42:22 AM
Man, when I don't keep up with this thread I fall too far behind!

I recently re-read and re-finished several Anthony Bourdain books, including Medium Raw and The Nasty Bits. Followed closely with his two fiction novels, Bone in the Throat and Gone Bamboo.  I don't know why his books aren't more popular.  Bone and Bamboo are just good, campy, beach reads in the finest sense of the genre.  What really strikes me, especially reading Bourdain's fiction, is that the guy is just a good fucking writer.  He's not the next Dickens or Hemingway or....Joyce.  But he writes well.  Well above average.  I read his books and honestly sort of marvel at the skill, even if it's only slightly above average.  Maybe it's just simple post-graduate level fiction writing.  But it's good.  The stories are good.  Simple, but good.  It's like a street carne asada burrito; you're not going to get some 5-star meal, but it's going to taste good, familiar, it's going to fill you up til the next meal.  No more and no less.  Considering the guy is a fucking chef, what more should you expect, if even that much?  And that's the thing, I know a little of Bourdain's education and I think he's smarter than he lets on.  He finished HS in 3 years and went to Vassar before going to CIA.  He's not a dumb cook; I think he's a good, smart writer who cooked to pay the bills until his writing hit.  I think he's an imposter; he was never about the cooking.  He has always been a writer with cooking as a side gig?  Yeah, maybe.  I think that's more likely even though he never says it.

I'm still working through Twilight of the Gods, which got much better once through that first 100 pages.  Toll continues to find interesting aspects to the war that I haven't considered before.  The series is certainly worthwhile, especially if you can get it on sale.

I have recently been dabbling in a few fiction books.  I started a book called Going After Cacciato by Tim O'brien.  I learned of this book because my son read The Things They Carried for 12th grade English and he thought I'd like it.  When I got around to asking him what the book was about he couldn't articulate a sentence, so I blew it off.  Anyway, O'Brien popped in some feed and when I read more articulate reviews he seemed like an author I might enjoy.  So I borrowed Things and Cacciato from the library.

I started with Cacciato, and I'm at 40% in and, I have to be honest, it's not grabbing me.  I understand that this is an ah-ha! book but I don't know that I have the patience to carry through to that point.  I understand that Things is more awesomer and traditional, so I'm thinking that might be the way to go.

I've also just re-started Metro 2033.  I read this a long time ago, more than 10 years, when I was on the Boat and I remember staying up to finish it, sacrificing sleep which is so oh-so-precious on a Navy ship.  I've wanted to give it a closer read as I seem to remember skimming over a lot of it.  I'm only on page 12 so I'm still just getting re-started.

I have a book that I've been reading off and on for decades called The Boardwalk Jungle by Ovid Demaris.  I've never finished it, and I'm not sure I will this time either.  It's about the mob and the corruption underpinning the creation of gambling in Atlantic City.  Since the book was finished in the 80's it loses a lot of its relevancy.  It ends with the Trump era in AC, and AC was still a place to be when the book ends.  Gambling, Trump, and Atlantic City in general are so, so different from the late 80's at this point that it's really only interesting for the mob stories, and as an historical document.  Since I'm not well-read on the rise of gambling in AC, the context is largely lost on me.  Still, it's one of my dad's books and I've been trying to finish it for years, so I feel like I need to finish it, even if I skim it, just to get closure and then get rid of the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on April 15, 2021, 01:46:05 AM
The books my company publishes and it makes my eyes bleed and I wish I could read for pleasure again.   :'(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 17, 2021, 03:26:47 PM
Just finished a couple of books about Japan during the end of WWII.

The first, was "The Fall of Japan", by William Craig,

This book does an excellent job of covering both sides of the last days of Japanese Empire, and includes a the first few months of American occupation. The book goes into good detail on the major events that closed the war and is light on analysis...and that was OK with me. So for example there are blow by blow descriptions of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki or the various Japanese coup attempts that attempted to stop the surrender, but not much discussion about "why".

https://www.amazon.com/The-Fall-of-Japan-William-Craig-audiobook/dp/B017WF07VM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+fall+of+japan&qid=1618687285&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/The-Fall-of-Japan-William-Craig-audiobook/dp/B017WF07VM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+fall+of+japan&qid=1618687285&sr=8-1)

The next book was "Embracing Defeat", by John Dower.

This book covers the occupation of Japan. It is a social / political history of the period 45 to 52.  The book has a bit of analysis, but puts it in some great places (like describing the various points of view about if Hirohito should have been tried as a war criminal for example). One of the most interesting things that I learned was how "hands off" MacArthur was in the managing of post war Japan. The Americans did push big ideas, but let the Japanese fend for themselves with the day to day stuff. But still, it is a fascinating story of how the entire Japanese nation moved from militarism to peaceful democracy in just a handful of years.

https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-Defeat-Japan-Wake-World/dp/0393046869/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1618689441&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-Defeat-Japan-Wake-World/dp/0393046869/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1618689441&sr=8-1)

I recommend both books to anyone interested in the subject.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on April 17, 2021, 04:48:14 PM
Still chugging along in the Churchill's historical-super-overview-of-England series, and have entered Book 3 of World War II, which is called The Grand Alliance (because the book covers the events of 1941 when the Soviet Union and the USA get into the war).

Mostly the early part, and the late parts of Book 2, remind me that I have two games featuring Operazione E that I'd like to compare sometime.  :coolsmiley: And also a video series of Command Ops 2 I was making, where I'm defending Greece against the Italian invasion from Albania in the first mission (specifically against the Italian left-wing thrust attempting to blitz around the main defenses into the backfield to end the fight early.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on April 17, 2021, 05:56:19 PM
Quote from: SirAndrewD on April 15, 2021, 01:46:05 AM
The books my company publishes and it makes my eyes bleed and I wish I could read for pleasure again.   :'(

I feel ya bud  :(
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 02, 2021, 12:00:18 PM
Just started 'Ghost Empire - A Journey to the Legendary Constantinople' by Richard Fidler.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 03, 2021, 08:41:26 PM
I've been making a real concerted effort to read Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, but....well, I was into it for a while but I'm about 400 (of 1000) pages in and, without giving away spoilers, there's this whole romance thing going on that is really starting to grate on my nerves.  If you've read the book then you know what I'm talking about.  There's only so much of the "I'm not into you, but I'm so into you being into me that it makes me into you..." bullshit I can take.  It's tiresome.

I daresay I may just bag it and move on.

I'm also reading Metro 2033 again, and Musashi, which I've now started 4 times but have yet to finish.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on May 03, 2021, 09:03:10 PM
Atlas Shrugged is by far one of the most turgid and poorly written of all well-regarded literary pieces.  I would gladly rather watch grass grow.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 03, 2021, 09:41:25 PM
^ Thank goodness, I thought it was just me.

I even went on Amazon to read reviews just to make sure I wasn't missing something. It turns out I was/am because the reviews are overwhelmingly positive and would indicate this is one of those novels everyone should read....Heh, I seem to remember the reviews of Joyce's Ulysses saying something similar.   :knuppel2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: solops on May 04, 2021, 12:05:47 AM
The Sheep Dragon
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 05, 2021, 08:52:32 PM
For a change of pace, I'm about 2/3 through with Rich Burlew's penultimate volume of The Order of the Stick. It's amazing how a webcomic strip which started as an affectionate spoof of D&D tropes (literally Advanced Dungeons and Dragons 3.5 edition material, with a rules upgrade to this standard sometime during the first volume), has been developed over time into a hearty epic multi-layered action-packed story of its own merits. A serious (yet continually comedic!) artistic achievement in the fantasy genre.

The original entries can be found (in reverse order, latest 'pages' first) here: https://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots.html

The paperback collections can be found here: https://www.giantitp.com/Shop.html Their plot order can be figured out from the Volume number, with the prequels being -1, 0, and 1/2. (The prequels aren't strictly necessary and contain some plot spoilers, but are well worth reading once you've caught up with the most recent volume.) The volumes also feature extra strips with some fun sideplot action, plus author commentary (which Rich puts before the sections, or "Rounds", that he's talking about, so they're super-spoilery! I have no idea why he didn't place those afterward.)

Some of the paperbacks are sold out, and resells on Amazon etc. are chancy, but the collections can also be bought on pdf from Gumroad (for which there are links at the GitP store page.)

Or you can just read the whole story (aside from the optional prequel and side extension strips) for free at the first link above, bottom to top! -- though keep in mind he's still working on the final volume which will probably take another few years.


If you prefer to get an idea of quality from TVTropes, here's the main entry: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Webcomic/TheOrderOfTheStick There are tons of spoilers, as you may expect, so proceed at your own risk.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 06, 2021, 08:50:46 AM
Sigh.

I picked up Atlas Shrugged again and am still slogging through it.  I finally got to one of the four-page long "speeches" by one of the main characters that I read about in the Amazon reviews.  Very Gordon Gecko-ish.

I'm virtually halfway through, so at this point I'll probably just finish it.  I don't have any other really pressing new reading I'm looking to get into at the moment, and Atlas is just interesting enough to keep me reading...for now anyway.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nobodyjune61944 on May 06, 2021, 10:59:29 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on May 05, 2021, 08:52:32 PM
For a change of pace, I'm about 2/3 through with Rich Burlew's penultimate volume of The Order of the Stick. It's amazing how a webcomic strip which started as an affectionate spoof of D&D tropes (literally Advanced Dungeons and Dragons 3.5 edition material, with a rules upgrade to this standard sometime during the first volume), has been developed over time into a hearty epic multi-layered action-packed story of its own merits. A serious (yet continually comedic!) artistic achievement in the fantasy genre.

The original entries can be found (in reverse order, latest 'pages' first) here: https://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots.html

The paperback collections can be found here: https://www.giantitp.com/Shop.html Their plot order can be figured out from the Volume number, with the prequels being -1, 0, and 1/2. (The prequels aren't strictly necessary and contain some plot spoilers, but are well worth reading once you've caught up with the most recent volume.) The volumes also feature extra strips with some fun sideplot action, plus author commentary (which Rich puts before the sections, or "Rounds", that he's talking about, so they're super-spoilery! I have no idea why he didn't place those afterward.)

Some of the paperbacks are sold out, and resells on Amazon etc. are chancy, but the collections can also be bought on pdf from Gumroad (for which there are links at the GitP store page.)

Or you can just read the whole story (aside from the optional prequel and side extension strips) for free at the first link above, bottom to top! -- though keep in mind he's still working on the final volume which will probably take another few years.


If you prefer to get an idea of quality from TVTropes, here's the main entry: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Webcomic/TheOrderOfTheStick There are tons of spoilers, as you may expect, so proceed at your own risk.

How does this compare to Knights of the Kitchen Table?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 06, 2021, 11:47:38 AM
I haven't read that, but from what little I know about it, one big difference is that unlike KotDT (or Darths and Droids, for another very long-running and high-quality RPG strip that I do know quite a bit about), there are no meta-level fictional characters playing the story's characters. On the contrary, there's an in-story explanation (sort of) revealed in volume 6 (of the planned 7 main volumes) for why the OOtS world runs on memes and tropes and AD&D rules (without calling it that specifically) -- and so far it has nothing to do with a meta-level 'gamer' reality beyond the story per se.

Unlike OOtS (or Darths and Droids per se), KotDT has the players playing different campaigns in different game systems, too.

(Technically that's true of Darths&Droids, as I recall: the player-characters haven't only ever played their homebrew system, and they do other things between the main installments (each of which correspond to a Star Wars film), but the strip only ever shows us what they're doing for their creation of some-approximation-of the Star Wars stories, the concept being 'What if Star Wars was a story being created on the fly by a DM and his players', using footage snapshots from the films -- and then seeing how far off beam the players might go while sticking with the films for source snapshots.)

The gif attached below is the first ever entry (aside from some test strips Rich made beforehand for Dragon magazine, if I recall). It's a fair sample of the comedy and plot mechanics (NOT of the plot itself! -- the bare bones of which get introduced in #13 (pun totally intended)), which shows the party being upgraded to AD&D 3.5 rules and the fan backlash for rangers being nerfed thereby. (I thought this happened somewhat later in the first story.)


Edited to add strip #13. (Some of the events from the intervening strips will come back later, though, so don't start here.) (And now you see my pun. ;) )

The eventual story is much, much, MUCH bigger than this. But it's a very basic start for what's going on at the beginning.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on May 10, 2021, 07:17:40 PM
ya know Toonces, sometimes its ok to not finish the book.
I know that we have some serious readers here.  theres also a lot out there to read.
once in a while we get a book thats just painful to read through and finish.
for me it was Glantz's Leningrad tome.  very well researched, as currently accurate as can be and some of the driest most boring reading ever.
how in the actual fuck can you write about Leningrad and be boring!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 10, 2021, 07:49:42 PM
When I get disappointed with a book a just skim it (read the first sentence of each paragraph). It's got to be truly horrible for me to just toss it. I can't remember the last time I did that. OCD helps on that front.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on May 10, 2021, 08:00:04 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on May 10, 2021, 07:17:40 PM
ya know Toonces, sometimes its ok to not finish the book.
I know that we have some serious readers here.  theres also a lot out there to read.
once in a while we get a book thats just painful to read through and finish.
for me it was Glantz's Leningrad tome.  very well researched, as currently accurate as can be and some of the driest most boring reading ever.
how in the actual fuck can you write about Leningrad and be boring!

  The Leningrad one is rough.  There's a snappier short version that might have the iceboat battles in it.  I'm re-reading the 5-book Stalingrad Trilogy...In volume one of book one I found three offensives I must have skipped ( the one before Whirlwind that took a big chunk out of AG CEnter, Whirlwind (which went nowhere as a kind of proto-Kursk) and Romanenko's first nightmare disaster the anti Whirlwind).  So many offensives.  I'm taking a break and reading After Stalingrad which at least has some battles that got remembered: Gallop, Kharkov 2.5 and 3.5 etc..

And then on to Toto Koopman versus Coco Channel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: solops on May 10, 2021, 09:04:41 PM
I read "The 900 Days" by Harrison Salisbury several decades ago. It was as brutal and comprehensive account of Leningrad as could be imagined. The political machinations of the Communist Party played a large role in the unfolding of the siege. And the Soviets knowledge of local conditions was key to their  success almost as much as Adolf's ham-handed interference. Draconian Soviet brutality towards their own certainly was another key to their success - discipline at the point of a Nagan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on May 12, 2021, 11:27:03 AM
Quote from: MengJiao on May 10, 2021, 08:00:04 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on May 10, 2021, 07:17:40 PM
ya know Toonces, sometimes its ok to not finish the book.
I know that we have some serious readers here.  theres also a lot out there to read.
once in a while we get a book thats just painful to read through and finish.
for me it was Glantz's Leningrad tome.  very well researched, as currently accurate as can be and some of the driest most boring reading ever.
how in the actual fuck can you write about Leningrad and be boring!

  The Leningrad one is rough.  There's a snappier short version that might have the iceboat battles in it.  I'm re-reading the 5-book Stalingrad Trilogy...In volume one of book one I found three offensives I must have skipped ( the one before Whirlwind that took a big chunk out of AG CEnter, Whirlwind (which went nowhere as a kind of proto-Kursk) and Romanenko's first nightmare disaster the anti Whirlwind).  So many offensives.  I'm taking a break and reading After Stalingrad which at least has some battles that got remembered: Gallop, Kharkov 2.5 and 3.5 etc..

And then on to Toto Koopman versus Coco Channel.

Which would be this:

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2021, 03:53:52 PM
Now reading Praetorian - The Rise and Fall of Rome's Imperial Bodyguard by Guy de la Bedoyere.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 19, 2021, 03:47:25 PM
Now starting Pax Romana - War, Peace and Conquest in the Roman World by Adrian Goldsworthy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on May 19, 2021, 09:09:56 PM
Getting started on The Conquering Tide by Ian Till. War in the Pacific 1942-1944. Just getting started but the lead up to Guadacanal is fascinating
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 21, 2021, 12:35:09 PM
^ I just finished Twilight of the Gods, wrapping up the three-volume series.  Great books and great series.  There was quite a bit in there I had not read before.

I'm going to give the series two firm thumbs up.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 22, 2021, 09:44:34 AM
Quote from: Toonces on May 21, 2021, 12:35:09 PM
^ I just finished Twilight of the Gods, wrapping up the three-volume series.  Great books and great series.  There was quite a bit in there I had not read before.

I'm going to give the series two firm thumbs up.

Just finished Twilight of the Gods myself.

Great book on the last year of WWII in the Pacific (note that the book does not really cover the war in China). It is a panoramic overview of the war that did a fair job of portraying both sides of the conflict.

If folks like Twilight of the Gods, and want more, I recommend The Fall of Japan by William Craig (the author of Enemy at the Gates)
https://www.amazon.com/Fall-Japan-Final-Weeks-Pacific/dp/1504046897/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1621693470&sr=8-3 (https://www.amazon.com/Fall-Japan-Final-Weeks-Pacific/dp/1504046897/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1621693470&sr=8-3)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 24, 2021, 05:37:57 PM
Taking a break from my usual non-fiction fare.

Just finished Shadow Fall by Randall Wilson.

Recommended by a friend, the book is special operations forces meet fantasy 101. Oozing with tactical detail, ambushes, tactics and field craft. Magic is there, but very subtle. No lightning bolts or fire balls. Combat is all about being swift, stealthy and using overwhelming force.

Anyway, if tactics and fantasy are your thing...a good read.

https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Fall-Tale-Black-Rose/dp/B08XGSTP8P/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=shadow+fall+randall+wilson&qid=1621895036&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Fall-Tale-Black-Rose/dp/B08XGSTP8P/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=shadow+fall+randall+wilson&qid=1621895036&sr=8-1)

Just picking up my wife's favorite book (so yes, getting 'brownie' points), The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay. Story takes place in a fantasy world that get's heavy inspiration from medieval Spain in the time of El Cid. Great character development and story telling. Has several strong female characters, thus my wife's interest. Anyway, about 1/3 through and enjoying it. Probably the best part is that it gives me an alternate subject for the next time my wife wants to discuss my feelings at 2am in the morning.

https://www.amazon.com/lions-Al-Rassan-Guy-Gavriel-Kay/dp/067085896X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1621895372&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/lions-Al-Rassan-Guy-Gavriel-Kay/dp/067085896X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1621895372&sr=8-2)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on May 24, 2021, 07:12:53 PM
I don't know if you've seen them, but I've raved about Guy Gavriel Kay in a number of posts of the years.  He is an absolutely fantastic writer.

Lions is really good.  If you find his writing enjoyable then you're in for a real treat as he has a number of similar books.  My favorite is the two-novel The Sarantine Mosaic.  It is probably my favorite book of all time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 24, 2021, 08:06:34 PM
^I've read a ton of good things about Clay here and elsewhere. What's his best title?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 24, 2021, 09:57:14 PM
I just started, "Meade and Lee at Bristoe Station- August 1 to October 31, 1863" by Jeffery Wm. Hunt, the second in his trilogy of books covering the period between Gettysburg and the 1864 Campaign in Virginia. The first book, "Meade and Lee after Gettysburg" was a great little book covering Lee's escape from Pennsylvania and Meade's pursuit thereafter, especially if you've read little about the events, like me. I highly enjoyed it.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 04, 2021, 01:14:50 PM
I just couldn't give up on Atlas Shrugged so I'm back into that again.  I'm more than halfway through, and now that some of the plot lines are becoming more clear I'm enjoying the book a bit more.  I think I'll be able to finish it unless it gets tragically bad in the latter half.  It's a bit over the top, but it's certainly an interesting premise and it does highlight the dangers of communism pretty well.

I also started (for the second time) Churchill's WW2 history.  I'm enjoying the first volume much more this time around for some reason.

I have a few other cat and dog books I'm sort of reading, but those two are my main focus at the moment.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on June 04, 2021, 04:42:29 PM
"If I wanted someone to murder subtext, I'd dig up Ayn Rand and stick a pen in her hand!"

-Sterling Archer
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nobodyjune61944 on June 04, 2021, 06:44:30 PM
I finished The Splintered Empires: The Eastern Front 1917–2 by Prit Buttar.
Earlier this year I finished Collision of Empires: The War on the Eastern Front in 1914.

Austria-Hungary had perhaps the worst strategy and tactics of any country in WW1.  The way they attacked Serbia defies explanation. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 04, 2021, 09:51:06 PM
Fantastic series on WWI East Front. Loved them all.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 05, 2021, 12:08:44 AM
On the somewhat light side, I am reading:

Pacific Adversaries. Volume 2: Imperial Japanese Navy vs. The Allies, New Guinea & the Solomons 1942-1944
by Michael Claringbould

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0648665909?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details (https://www.amazon.com/dp/0648665909?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details)

The book has 15 chapters. All are about the length of a magazine article. What is great about each chapter is that they tell the story of a specific small action between Japanese Navy and Allied air forces in New Guinea and the Solomons, '42 to '44. Each story is checked against Allied and Japanese records for accuracy. Each chapter has a detailed description of the action along with a description of what happened to the aircraft and pilots. In many cases, the author visited the wrecks of downed aircraft for the story and has pictures of them. For modelers, each chapter also has some very nice plates showing the specific color scheme and markings (as flown by each crew on the day of the mission) for the main aircraft mentioned in the story. Overall, it is about the size of an Osprey book, with great photographs and illustrations. Pacific Adversaries would be a great coffee table book that can be picked up and read easily in 10-20 min increments. The book is soft cover and on the pricy side...but if WWII Pacific air combat is your thing...a great book to have in your library.

This is volume 2 in a series, and I am already saving my pennies to get some more of them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 05, 2021, 03:02:05 PM
About to start A Man at Arms by Steven Pressfield.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on June 05, 2021, 07:40:23 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 05, 2021, 03:02:05 PM
About to start A Man at Arms by Steven Pressfield.

Starting Richard B. Frank Tower of Skulls A History of the Asia-Pacific War, July 1937 to May 1942.  Now with real Chinese!

By the way, what is up with Ian W. Toll?  In the Conquering Tide, he borrows from Frank's Guadalcanal and doesn't even have him in the bibliography (much less cited).
Moreover, in the preface to Twilight of the Gods (and maybe elsewhere) he says he's only thinking about competing with books in the current period...since 1990
(Frank's Guadalcanal came out in 1990).
Very weird.

Anyway, here's Frank:

https://www.c-span.org/video/?469611-1/tower-skulls

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 05, 2021, 08:36:28 PM
I read A Tower of Skulls last summer and loved it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nobodyjune61944 on June 05, 2021, 09:37:49 PM
Quote from: MengJiao on June 05, 2021, 07:40:23 PM
Quote from: Gusington on June 05, 2021, 03:02:05 PM
About to start A Man at Arms by Steven Pressfield.

Starting Richard B. Frank Tower of Skulls A History of the Asia-Pacific War, July 1937 to May 1942.  Now with real Chinese!

By the way, what is up with Ian W. Toll?  In the Conquering Tide, he borrows from Frank's Guadalcanal and doesn't even have him in the bibliography (much less cited).
Moreover, in the preface to Twilight of the Gods (and maybe elsewhere) he says he's only thinking about competing with books in the current period...since 1990
(Frank's Guadalcanal came out in 1990).
Very weird.

Anyway, here's Frank:

https://www.c-span.org/video/?469611-1/tower-skulls
Tower of Skulls is an excellent, though depressing book.  Until I read it I was unaware of how many military and civilian deaths the Chinese suffered against the Japanese. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on June 05, 2021, 10:04:13 PM
Whoa...a Pressfield book I haven't heard of?  Off to check that bad boy out.

Gus, if you like Pressfield (he's one of my favorite authors) you might want to check out The Lion's Gate.  Kinda tagging on the R&P discussions, Lion's Gate is about the Arab-Israeli wars.  I have it on my Kindle, but haven't read it yet.  I am reading his one about the Long Range Desert Group: Killing Rommel right now and, as usual, it's bloody awesome.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 06, 2021, 01:17:20 PM
^Pressfield is the ******* man. I've read most of his ancients titles and loved them. A Man at Arms just came out this year after he took a 10+ year hiatus from fiction writing. I'm 60 pages in and he has not lost his touch. It's a little more melodramatic than the other ancient titles, but that doesn't take away from Pressfield's writing skill.

I've had The Lion's Gate on my to-get list for a while. I always forget about Killing Rommel but will add that to the list on your recommendation. I have this in my cart right now, which may interest you too:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1472842154/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: fran on June 06, 2021, 02:47:23 PM
With the old breed E.B Sledge

Peleliu and Okinawa
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nobodyjune61944 on June 06, 2021, 04:18:34 PM
Quote from: fran on June 06, 2021, 02:47:23 PM
With the old breed E.B Sledge

Peleliu and Okinawa

My wife set up the digitized collection of EB Sledge's donations to the AU Library.

If you are interested you can see it at: http://diglib.auburn.edu/collections/ebsledge/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on June 07, 2021, 08:09:58 AM
Quote from: nobodyjune61944 on June 06, 2021, 04:18:34 PM
Quote from: fran on June 06, 2021, 02:47:23 PM
With the old breed E.B Sledge

Peleliu and Okinawa

My wife set up the digitized collection of EB Sledge's donations to the AU Library.

If you are interested you can see it at: http://diglib.auburn.edu/collections/ebsledge/

Awesome!!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: fran on June 07, 2021, 12:28:54 PM
Quote from: nobodyjune61944 on June 06, 2021, 04:18:34 PM
Quote from: fran on June 06, 2021, 02:47:23 PM
With the old breed E.B Sledge

Peleliu and Okinawa

My wife set up the digitized collection of EB Sledge's donations to the AU Library.

If you are interested you can see it at: http://diglib.auburn.edu/collections/ebsledge/

Thank you for posting, very interesting finding out more about him.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 29, 2021, 06:49:18 AM
Now reading Gaiseric: The Vandal Who Destroyed Rome by Ian Hughes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 02, 2021, 11:52:46 PM
Finished up Churchill's The Grand Alliance last week but forgot to mention it; now a few chapters into Vol.4, The Hinge of Fate.

TGA ended with an amusing recount of Churchill's first experience traveling by flying boat, making an opportunistic jump (thanks to a great tailwind) from Bermuda to England, rather than steaming there on the surface in a fast battleship with destroyers. He loved the craft itself, and the pilot was excited at the challenge of making the jump -- but packing so many high rankers into the flight was a dicey chance, as was demonstrated when the final 10 hours was made above a thick overcast (undercast ;) ) and mist obscuring stellar navigation.

Eventually, the liasons (...dang I can never spell that...) whom Churchill had brought to Washington (for his first conference with FDR after Japan's attack), for air and naval strategy, decided with the pilot that it was time to turn north RIGHT NOW; and so not long afterward they reached Plymouth. When the plane landed, its captain confided that he had never been so relieved as to deliver Churchill and his group safely.

Not long afterward, Churchill heard why: had they spent another five or six minutes on their current bearing, they would have been over the Brest anti-aircraft defenses! And perhaps worse, they didn't have fuel remaining for much maneuvering beyond their turn north; so as far as UK radar was concerned this was a lone bomber, flying in from the Brest fields, trying to use cloud cover for a morning raid navigating by radio crossbeam. So six Hurricanes had been diverted from patrol by Fighter Command to shoot the flying boat down!

"However," Churchill dryly finishes the main text of the book, "they failed in their mission."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 03, 2021, 08:22:48 AM
How many pages total is Grand Alliance?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 04, 2021, 04:20:50 PM
I'm reading it on Kindle, so I don't know. One moment...

Okay, the kindle page I bought it from/through, says 923 pages. However, 25% of that are (mostly) appendix documents and endnotes and other support things. So somewhere around 690 pages of main text.

TGA is roughly the events of 1941.

If you want to get hardcore, you should start back with A History of the English Speaking Peoples (https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B078MNSQXT), in four volumes (that's the Kindle link); then The World Crisis (https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07HPGX8YX), in five volumes; then The Second World War (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B087CN6X87) in six volumes. (World Crisis has a variable number of volumes depending on how it's bound; I've seen unabridged sets ranging from two volumes to six.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 04, 2021, 06:24:18 PM
Jeez that sounds extremely hardcore. But I am going to guess that Churchill is an incredible writer, eh?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 04, 2021, 08:45:10 PM
Just finishing "The Pioneers" by David McCullough.

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneers-Heroic-Settlers-Brought-American/dp/1501168681/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1625448553&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Pioneers-Heroic-Settlers-Brought-American/dp/1501168681/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1625448553&sr=8-1)

The title seems a bit misleading. The book is not about the great westward expansion after the Civil War.

The book is really about the settlement of the Ohio River valley in the late 1700s and early 1800s. And for that, the book opened up a whole series of stories I had not heard before.

The book has some great insights into the historical importance of places like Marietta (named after Marie Antoinette), Ohio, the first large settlement in the Northwest Territory. One of the town's major founders was Rufus Putnam, a Revolutionary War General. in fact, most of the early settlers were Revolutionary War Veterans who had been given land by Congress for their service. 

Or the story of Gallipolis, Ohio, on the Ohio, River. The town was founded by a group of French immigrants (Gallipolis named for the Gauls) who were duped by an American and a British huckster who sold them fake deeds to Ohio land. When the French (about 600 of them) arrived and found out that their land "purchase" was worthless they fell into despair. George Washington took pity on them and worked a deal with the legitimate "Ohio Company" to settle them downriver from Marietta.

There is also the fascinating story of Aaron Burr's "plot" to have the Ohio territory secede from the Union. Seems like after shooting Hamilton, Burr was a busy man...hatching conspiracies including trying to find ways to set himself up as Emperor of Mexico...things like that (he even went to France at one point to sell the idea).

Then there was a push by Thomas Jefferson to have the State Constitutional Convention make Ohio a slave state; in the end, the slave question lost by only one vote.

Anyway, some really great stories about a chapter of history I did not know...I completely enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 05, 2021, 02:11:45 PM
About to start Rommel's Desert Soldiers - Afrika Korps by Major K.J. Macksey, M.C. Originally published in 1968 this yellowed, dry and brittle copy is from 1976 and smells like an old man.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 05, 2021, 10:51:56 PM
^ Apt!  :D

(But does it allow a bonus to the Italians if they can cook their pasta? ;) )

Re Churchill's writing talent: I'd say he's about average, or a little above: he can turn a colorful phrase on occasion (as his speeches, which he composed himself, testify), but it doesn't happen often. My impression is that he was more colorful as a casual speaker, based on reports from other people about things he said off the cuff.

His viewpoint, however -- in the sense of his observations (metaphorically and sometimes literally!) from where he stands, and has stood, in the world and in his studies of the history which he and his people have lived -- provide the key interest of his works. I can read a history of the English-speaking peoples from many authors (and have on occasion ;) ), but none of them have his perspective. So, your valuation will be proportionate to how much you appreciate any importance in his position as a key part of living history himself. But if you're looking to enjoy his writing, I'd expect disappointment: he won't be incompetent, but don't get your hopes up.

(To be fair, much of this stems from his WW1 and WW2 memoirs being largely based on official texts he sent out to various people. Naturally the first set, on the history of the Island up to the turn into the 20th century, doesn't have any of that, so it improves the average quality of prose.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on July 05, 2021, 10:52:46 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on July 04, 2021, 08:45:10 PM
Just finishing "The Pioneers" by David McCullough.

That does sound surprisingly great!  :bd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 06, 2021, 12:08:20 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on July 05, 2021, 10:51:56 PM
^ Apt!  :D

Re Churchill's writing talent: I'd say he's about average, or a little above: he can turn a colorful phrase on occasion (as his speeches, which he composed himself, testify), but it doesn't happen often. My impression is that he was more colorful as a casual speaker, based on reports from other people about things he said off the cuff.


I'm just finishing a book on the Battle of Omdurman where Churchill famously rode with the 21st Lancers in the "last great British cavalry charge."

He wrote a book about the campaign that got him into hot water with senior British Army commanders because it apparently was too critical of them. The book was called, "The River War An Historical Account of the Reconquest of the Soudan."

A year later, when Churchill went to South Africa for the Boer War, he got the cold shoulder from many commanders because of "River War."

Ultimately a good politician, Churchill cleaned "River War" up and republished it two years later, removing all of the "personal opinions"...  It is that cleaned up 2nd Edition that is the one that is easily available "on-line."

However, the 1st Edition, harder to find, is the one I want to read since it would be the juicy one.

Anyway, a next good read for me will be "River War."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 06, 2021, 07:10:10 AM
Churchill just above average?!? Crazytalk. In my mind he should be one of the greatest writers ever! I'll have to read something by him eventually.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 08, 2021, 07:14:22 AM
About to start the new and not stinky 'The Armour of Rommel's Afrika Korps - Rare Photographs from Wartime Archives' by Ian Baxter.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on July 08, 2021, 09:01:36 AM
I'm doing some research into the Falkland Islands War.  Right now, I've started "Amphibious Assault Falklands: The Battle of San Carlos Water" by Commodore Michael Clapp, the amphibious commander for the operation.   Its a technical book, but thus far an excellent professional-level study of the command, logistical and doctrinal issues.  Thus far, I would recommend it as a companion read to "One Hundred Days: The Memoirs of the Falklands Battle Group Commander".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 08, 2021, 11:20:38 AM
I've often wondered Trip, the Brits sailing from Britain to the Falklands, would that make it the longest Amphibious Op. in History?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on July 08, 2021, 12:16:09 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on July 08, 2021, 11:20:38 AM
I've often wondered Trip, the Brits sailing from Britain to the Falklands, would that make it the longest Amphibious Op. in History?

It might very well be.  Operation TORCH was only about 3200 nm, while OPERATION CORPORATE (the Falklands) is 6400 nm great circle from Southhampton to Port Sanley.  This doesn't even take into account the Ascension Island or South Georgia legs of the trip.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 08, 2021, 09:24:21 PM
 :wow:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 09, 2021, 08:59:19 AM
About to start 'Vehicles of the Long Range Desert Group 1940 - 45' by Gavin Mortimer, Henry Morshead and Irene Cano Rodriguez (Osprey New Vanguard series).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 09, 2021, 11:15:56 AM
You're really on a, 'North Africa' thing aren't you? Nothing wrong with that at all. Just don't get your, 'Crusaders' mixed-up with your, 'Battle Axes'.  ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2021, 10:57:00 AM
I'm a seasonal kinda guy with reading and gaming. It's July, it's hot, North Africa is a natural choice for my OCD brain. Also my grandfather fought in the North Africa. Not for the Romans but for the U.S. Army in WWII :)

Next phase happens when I get sick of summer and take a break with some sci-fi. If I'm still into summer then I may go into an ancient Greece/Macedonia mode.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on July 10, 2021, 11:47:32 AM
Gus, what unit was he with in North Africa?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2021, 07:16:22 PM
I have to go look at the stuff of his I have upstairs, I don't remember off the top of my head the smaller units he was with but he was bounced around from ordnance supply and artillery units. I do know that he was in Mark Clark's 5th Army and was in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. He went AWOL to find one of his brothers while in Italy too, and found him...I have some great pics of the two of them in front of a Mussolini statue at a Roman stadium and also in front of some tank wrecks.

Another of his brothers was with the 84th Railsplitters at the Battle of the Bulge and was unfortunately killed there.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 12, 2021, 09:40:39 AM
Just started Mil Mi-24 Attack Helicopter: In Soviet and Worldwide Service - 1972 to Present by Michael Normann. Beautifully made coffee-table book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 12, 2021, 05:30:05 PM
Quote from: Gusington on July 12, 2021, 09:40:39 AM
Just started Mil Mi-24 Attack Helicopter: In Soviet and Worldwide Service - 1972 to Present by Michael Normann. Beautifully made coffee-table book.

That sounds like a good book.  Gonna have to Amazon that and see what it's about. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 12, 2021, 06:10:47 PM
I'm only a couple of pages in - the author grew up in East Germany wanting to fly a Hind one day but never did, in the military.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 13, 2021, 07:43:05 AM
^Cool


Some of the Amazon reviews point out the quality of the translation, I guess the author doesn't speak English.  They also mention this book is of excellent quality in it's glossy images, print text, hardcover, etc.  On sale now for 28.99 I might just pick this up as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 13, 2021, 07:49:13 AM
I agree the translation is not the best but I have seen way worse. I am mostly here for the pretty pictures anyway.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 13, 2021, 10:33:34 AM
Heli-Porn? I approve!  O0  I do hear the MI-24 has a really cute Hind-End.   :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on July 13, 2021, 10:43:47 AM
^As Donnie Osmond used to say, "Cute Marie.  Cute".  LOL

Sorry, I'm a little beHind the times.   :)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 13, 2021, 11:37:06 AM
 :-[
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 19, 2021, 02:34:22 PM
As usual, I've got a few books on the burner right now.  You may sense a theme.

I just finished a book called Flash in the Pan by David Blume, about a failed restaurant.  I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as it was hyped by Anthony Bourdain.  I'm also about halfway through The Devil in the Kitchen, an autobiography of Mario Pierre White.  It's ok, but not as good as Kitchen Confidential.  I have two additional biographies by Gordon Ramsay on the way.

A couple weeks ago I went to a local thrift store and they had a ton of novels for like a buck apiece.  My fiction reading tends to be very one-dimensional, so I picked up a bunch of books from a number of genres.  Right now I'm reading one called, The Honourable Schoolboy that is a spy novel, I think.  It's not the easiest book I've ever read...not as hard as Joyce, but it requires a certain amount of focus.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 22, 2021, 08:51:28 AM
About 1/3 of the way into Afgantsy: The Russians in Afghanistan by Rodric Braithwaite. Great book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on July 27, 2021, 11:20:06 PM
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by mark Manson.
not a book I needed to read but the Supreme Leader read it and said I should because its a textual representation of my base line philosophy covering a lot of my outlook on life.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 29, 2021, 06:43:36 PM
^ I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on it after you finish.  I could probably stand to read a book like that as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 29, 2021, 11:32:58 PM
I finished "Omdurman" by Philip Ziegler.  A relatively short, but very competent military history of the 1898 British campaign to take back Sudan from the Dervishes.

The battle of Omdurman was a classic colonial contest; firepower vs. will. British firepower...Lee-Metford rifles and Maxim machine guns won the day.

The battle is probably best known today because of the charge of the 21st Lancers, the last major charge of British cavalry. Winston Churchill, a lieutenant, was attached to the 21st Lancers and participated in the charge.

Here is the link to Ziegler's book...     

https://www.amazon.com/Omdurman-Pen-Sword-Military-Classics-ebook/dp/B00KYVDR9Q/ref=sr_1_2?crid=263OE0FHJM4SE&dchild=1&keywords=omdurman+by+ziegler&qid=1627617757&s=books&sprefix=omdurman%2Cstripbooks%2C229&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Omdurman-Pen-Sword-Military-Classics-ebook/dp/B00KYVDR9Q/ref=sr_1_2?crid=263OE0FHJM4SE&dchild=1&keywords=omdurman+by+ziegler&qid=1627617757&s=books&sprefix=omdurman%2Cstripbooks%2C229&sr=1-2)

Next up in the queue

"When Chicago Ruled Baseball", the 1906 World Series...the Chicago Cubs vs. the Chicago White Sox. Book by Bernard Weisberger.

Some baseball history buffs think the 1906 Cubs were the best baseball team ever...maybe this book will convince me. Despite the Cub's dominance, and the fact that they were heavily favored, the White Sox managed to walk away with the series four games to two. 

I am about one chapter in...and the most striking thing about the book is how little the game of baseball has changed in 115 years.

https://www.amazon.com/When-Chicago-Ruled-Baseball-Cubs-White/dp/0060592273/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=when+chicago+ruled+baseball&qid=1627619058&s=books&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/When-Chicago-Ruled-Baseball-Cubs-White/dp/0060592273/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=when+chicago+ruled+baseball&qid=1627619058&s=books&sr=1-2)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 30, 2021, 08:36:45 AM
I think I read that Omdurman book and enjoyed it a lot a while back.

The 2nd book sounds excellent.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 03, 2021, 03:03:59 PM
About to start Into Neon - A Cyberpunk Saga by Matthew A. Goodwin.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 03, 2021, 09:44:41 PM
I just started, 'Meade and Lee at Rappahannock Station', the third book by Jeffery Hunt about the Lee vs Meade period of the ACW prior to Grant's taking command. The first 2 were excellent, 'Meade and Lee after Gettysburg' and, 'Meade and Lee at Bristoe Station'. Hoping this one's as great.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on August 09, 2021, 07:38:09 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on August 03, 2021, 09:44:41 PM
I just started, 'Meade and Lee at Rappahannock Station', the third book by Jeffery Hunt about the Lee vs Meade period of the ACW prior to Grant's taking command. The first 2 were excellent, 'Meade and Lee after Gettysburg' and, 'Meade and Lee at Bristoe Station'. Hoping this one's as great.  O0

Looking at these on Kindle and I was surprised to find the second and third books on sale for $2.99. Not sure why the first incessant on sale. Did see David Powell's Tullahoma Campaign on sale for $2.99 and grabbed it too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 09, 2021, 10:11:50 PM
The third one's only been out for a few months now. All 3 are very well written using lots of letters from soldiers writing home with details of the armies and their thoughts and opinions of action unfolding around them. Great maps and very detailed descriptions of the battles fought though, most were pretty small affairs. I've enjoyed the series because I know next to nothing about this part of the ACW. But there was a lot going on.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Hot lead and dirty talk! on August 10, 2021, 08:25:33 AM
I just started reading Battle of Midway by Symonds and I am hooked. It's supposed to be the definitive book about the battle. It also talks about the Japanese battle plans and why they did what they did during the battle.

I'm only 60pg in, but I like what I've read so far.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 15, 2021, 12:33:43 PM
Started In the Shadow of the Sword - The Birth of Islam and the Rise of the Global Arab Empire by Tom Holland.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 17, 2021, 05:44:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 15, 2021, 12:33:43 PM
Started In the Shadow of the Sword - The Birth of Islam and the Rise of the Global Arab Empire by Tom Holland.

Ooh! -- I'll make a note, really liked some other works by Holland.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 17, 2021, 07:13:20 PM
^Me too. And I am happy to report that this is my favorite, even at only about 125 pages in. Holland has really become a great writer...he makes complex subjects fascinating. I daresay this book is a page-turner, like a novel.

The title is slightly misleading because there is a huge wealth of info on the remains of the Roman Empire, the Persian Empire and the state the world was in in the 7th century. But I love that era so it is kind of like a bonus for me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on August 17, 2021, 07:37:44 PM
Getting started on The Tullahoma Campaign by David Palmer and Eric Wittenberg. Got it cheap for the Kindle. Always thought Direct and didn't get enough credit for maneuvering Bragg out of Tennessee.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on August 18, 2021, 05:19:26 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 17, 2021, 05:44:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 15, 2021, 12:33:43 PM
Started In the Shadow of the Sword - The Birth of Islam and the Rise of the Global Arab Empire by Tom Holland.

Ooh! -- I'll make a note, really liked some other works by Holland.  O0

I'll have to stop coming to this page, as I keep on adding books to my Amazon wishlist faster than I read them...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 18, 2021, 08:15:02 AM
Here let me help you fellers:

https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Sword-Birth-Global-Empire-ebook/dp/B005IEGKMA/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Shadow+of+the+Sword&qid=1629292438&s=books&sr=1-1

Shadow of the Sword is well worth the ~8.00 you can snag it for.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 18, 2021, 05:35:14 PM
Just finished "Musashi" by Eiji Yoshikawa. This is an epic, semi-fictionalized historical novel on the early life of Musashi Miyamoto, Japan's greatest swordsman and the author of, "The Book of Five Rings."

The book covers the early life of Musashi. It starts with the end of the battle of Sekigahara, where a very young Musashi was a spear carrier on the losing side. He was wounded and left for dead on the battlefield. The story then covers the period where Musashi struggled to develop himself and his sword technique. The tale is full of sword duels, battles with bandits, and numerous fights, including Musashi's feud with the Yoshioka Sword School of Kyoto. The book culminates in Musashi's most famous deadly sword duel where he bested Kojiro Sasaki in 1612.

There are easily thirty major and minor characters in the book, and many of them are historical. In fact, the book follows Musashi's rival, Kojiro Sasaki, almost as much as it covers Musashi. The parallel stories of Musashi and Kojiro, men of different temperament and values, finally meeting in a death duel at the end, makes for great reading.

If you are interested in the Japanese culture of the 1600s, or Japanese samurai movies / books, Musashi is an easy recommendation. The book is full of period color, and Yoshikawa brings 1600 Japan alive with his story telling. This period of Japanese history saw many "student warriors" roaming the country, joining swordsmanship schools, and testing their fighting skills in deadly duels. It was also a period of banditry and some instability as the Tokugawa Shogun, fresh off victory at Sekigahara began to establish its rule over the country. The roads and hills of rural Japan were full of masterless warriors and thieves, and Musashi has many deadly run-ins with these types...a few of them are even minor characters in the story.

While the book is certainly good IMHO, I would not call it "great". The book was written in the 1930s in Japan, and was originally serialized in a magazine. The book has numerous side-stories following the many minor characters. Current western readers may find that the side stories are a little over-long. Sometimes Musashi is so long out of the story-line that the reader might forget that Musashi is the main character of the book. Also there is a 'magazine-like' cliff-hanger style to many of side stories that gets a little tiring after a while.

Still, these complaints are minor, and I thoroughly enjoyed the book and recommend it to anyone interested in the period.

Here is the Amazon link to the book:

https://www.amazon.com/Musashi-Epic-Novel-Samurai-Era/dp/156836427X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1629303277&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Musashi-Epic-Novel-Samurai-Era/dp/156836427X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1629303277&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 18, 2021, 06:54:12 PM
Thanks AT, been wanting to read Musashi for a long time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 18, 2021, 09:33:09 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 18, 2021, 06:54:12 PM
Thanks AT, been wanting to read Musashi for a long time.

It is a long book...but worth it...:)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 19, 2021, 07:24:27 AM
 O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on August 19, 2021, 08:42:58 AM
Whilst driving about yesterday, stopped off at a antique mall just over the line in Georgia and went straight to the book booth I remembered from a previous visit and walked away with two Stackpole WW2 books - Luftwaffe Aces, and some Otto Carius penned thing (Tigers in the Mud, iirc) so I got that in front of me.

Got the sinking feeling that once I cast off this mortal coil, they'll look at my library and say, "Hunh.  This guy must really have liked everyone but the U.S. during WW2, particularly the Japanese and Germans. Hmmm..."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 19, 2021, 09:22:53 AM
Quote from: Dammit Carl! on August 19, 2021, 08:42:58 AM
Got the sinking feeling that once I cast off this mortal coil, they'll look at my library and say, "Hunh.  This guy must really have liked everyone but the U.S. during WW2, particularly the Japanese and Germans. Hmmm..."

Sounds like you might have a bucket list mission...plenty of great books on WWII US. If you need recommendations, I'm sure the guys on this board will be happy to help...

But I know what you mean...for WWII my library tends to lean toward Japanese and German subjects as well... 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 19, 2021, 09:27:22 AM
Me too. Don't forget Italy. And don't tell anyone!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on August 19, 2021, 10:00:29 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on August 19, 2021, 09:22:53 AM
Sounds like you might have a bucket list mission...plenty of great books on WWII US. If you need recommendations, I'm sure the guys on this board will be happy to help...

But I know what you mean...for WWII my library tends to lean toward Japanese and German subjects as well...

Oh, for sure there are plenty of good books detailing U.S. things  (and if anyone wants a copy of  the entire U.S. Army Order of Battle in WW2, I'll DM you address of the antique place I was at - that bitch be a huuuge book), and I'm sure I've read a few of them.  Just isn't as interesting to me, per se, I guess.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 19, 2021, 10:26:10 AM
Right there with you Carl. But I got a few good books from the Allied side too, just for balance. Anything with tanks is my weakness.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on August 19, 2021, 11:15:57 AM
[Grandkids by the bookcase cleaning up my house after they find my half-chewed upon corpse lying beside the computer]

"Man.  Grandpa loved him some nazi shit, right?"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on August 20, 2021, 03:53:56 PM
Quote from: Dammit Carl! on August 19, 2021, 11:15:57 AM
[Grandkids by the bookcase cleaning up my house after they find my half-chewed upon corpse lying beside they computer]

"Man.  Grandpa loved him some nazi shit, right?"

That is awesome and probably gonna be my fate as well.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 25, 2021, 04:29:44 PM
Musashi is very good!  But I've never quite finished it.  I keep re-starting, getting about 3/4 of the way through and then run out of steam. 

I just re-started it a few weeks ago.  Now I'm kinda fired up to stick with it through the end!

I picked it up at Epcot Center, in the Japanese gift shop of all places, back in about 2007 or so.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 25, 2021, 04:38:50 PM
That's the most Toonces tale I've read since your last post.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 25, 2021, 07:32:42 PM
Quote from: Toonces on August 25, 2021, 04:29:44 PM
Musashi is very good!  But I've never quite finished it.  I keep re-starting, getting about 3/4 of the way through and then run out of steam. 

I just re-started it a few weeks ago.  Now I'm kinda fired up to stick with it through the end!

I picked it up at Epcot Center, in the Japanese gift shop of all places, back in about 2007 or so.

Hang in there...so worth it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 06, 2021, 12:33:00 PM
Now reading Constantinople 717-718, Crucible of History by Si Sheppard and Graham Turner (Osprey Campaign Series).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2021, 09:08:15 AM
Now reading 'The Caliph's Splendor: Islam and the West in the Golden Age of Baghdad' by Benson Bobrick.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on September 10, 2021, 09:28:22 AM
And in my ongoing cycle of buying Nazi shit, picked up a very worn out copy of Hitler's Luftwaffe from Salamander Press.  Got it more for the pictures, the plane specs/stuff and the like over the written history bit, but will read it nonetheless.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2021, 09:41:21 AM
^Your grandkids will love it!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on September 10, 2021, 09:47:08 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 10, 2021, 09:41:21 AM
^Your grandkids will love it!

"You see, Timmy, the ME-109G models were the most produced variants of alllllll the Messerschmitts."

"Wow, grandpa."  :P
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Redwolf on September 10, 2021, 10:35:56 AM
[wrong thread]
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 10, 2021, 12:05:44 PM
Mine would laugh at me for saying, "Mess-er Shits". Then tell Grandma I said a bad word. That's why I keep a secret stash of Snickers for bribery purposes.  ^-^
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2021, 12:24:05 PM
Do you perform a lot of self-bribery?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 10, 2021, 02:30:49 PM
I picked up a modern translation in hardback of Henryk Sienkiewicz's The Deluge trilogy.  I've read the first two books before in their original translation but I wanted to try a modern translation.  I'm currently working through With Fire and Sword.  I dunno, call me old fashioned, but I kind of preferred the original translation.  It was more...charming I guess.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 10, 2021, 02:52:23 PM
^Does that include The Teutonic Knights? Or is that a totally separate title, not part of the trilogy?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 10, 2021, 06:04:08 PM
Totally separate title.  The trilogy is With Fire and Sword, The Deluge (in two volumes), and Fire in the Steppe.  Altogether it's probably 5000 pages of reading.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 11, 2021, 10:24:05 AM
Quote from: Toonces on September 10, 2021, 06:04:08 PM
Totally separate title.  The trilogy is With Fire and Sword, The Deluge (in two volumes), and Fire in the Steppe.  Altogether it's probably 5000 pages of reading.

Good suggestions. I started to read With Fire and Sword long ago, but got busy doing other things...time to revist.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 11, 2021, 12:26:16 PM
Thanks Toonces.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 17, 2021, 08:15:57 AM
Just started the Baltimore (graphic novel) Omnibus Volume 1 by Mike Mignola  (Author), Christopher Golden (Author), Ben Stenbeck (Illustrator), Dave Stewart (Illustrator), Clem Robins (Illustrator): https://amzn.to/3lBYzri
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 17, 2021, 12:29:30 PM
Half way through "Kennesaw Mountain: Sherman, Johnston, and the Atlanta Campaign" by Earl J. Hess.

This book is a good, competent telling of one of the most important battles of Sherman's Atlanta campaign. The book is of the blow by blow variety. Discussing the action regiment by regiment and sometimes down to the company level.

The Confederates had built a line of earthworks based on Kennesaw Mountain that blocked the Union advance to Marietta, Georgia, with the ultimate target of Atlanta. To take the position, Sherman attacked with three corps, making a frontal assault in columns against the dug-in Confederates in June, 1864. The Confederates stopped the Union troops cold, with very heavy Federal losses. At the same time, a fourth Federal corps, probed the Confederate left, and was able to pry the Confederates out of their position, clearing the way to Marietta. So while the battle was a tactical defeat for the Union, strategically it was just a minor speed bump.

The book is not one of the "popular" variety. It is too detailed in its description of the fighting down to the regiment / company level for that. So it would not be something I would recommend to the general reader. However, for someone wanting a serious study of the battle, the book is indispensable.

My only real complaint about the book has to do with the quality of the maps. While the book has a generous number of maps, they are often confusingly drawn, have no keys, and never mark north. I find myself looking for better maps from other sources as I read.

The book had a few points I found to be particularly interesting:
-Some Union units had Henry repeating rifles, and the Confederates prized them highly whenever they could capture one.
-By this point in the war, troops from both sides would routinely go to ground and dig-in on the defensive.
-The advancing Federal formations had great difficulty maintaining cohesion across the wooded, broken terrain, and they paid heavily for that.
-The Federals attacked in assault columns. The assault column may have worked well for Napoleon, but against dug-in rifled muskets, a column quickly collapses into a disorganized morass.

Here is the link to the book on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Kennesaw-Mountain-Sherman-Johnston-Campaign/dp/1469602113/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1631897646&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Kennesaw-Mountain-Sherman-Johnston-Campaign/dp/1469602113/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1631897646&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on September 17, 2021, 07:40:52 PM
About 50 pages into "Storm over Iraq: Air Power and the Gulf War".  So far, it is a riveting companion to all the Cold War military aviation reading I have been doing over the past year or so...books about aviation in Korea and Vietnam and some of the flying legends of the era, both men and machines. The first chapter is extremely informative and concise in discussing the birth of military aviation and the evolution of its use from reconnaissance through tactical bombing, strategic bombing and air superiority. It goes into great detail on how errors in interpreting data from the major wars led to misuse and misguided theories on technological direction, training and employment of aircraft and weaponry. It then starts to talk about how the US military learned from painful lessons in the skies over Southeast Asia. All this seems to be leading up to the great lethality and success of the air war during Operation Desert Storm.

I only read it while on the toilet, so this one is going to take me a very long time to get through. It is very heavy reading too, so only a few pages at a time, which is why I am enjoying it as a bathroom reader.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on September 18, 2021, 08:42:31 PM
Wish listed these last two
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Ubercat on September 19, 2021, 07:53:58 AM
I never got the whole bathroom reading thing. The toilet isn't a comfortable chair. My mission is to get in and get out. Hanging out doesn't make sense to me. I'm 53 so I don't think it's just a matter of understanding when I'm older.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on September 19, 2021, 08:43:14 AM
Quote from: Ubercat on September 19, 2021, 07:53:58 AM
I never got the whole bathroom reading thing. The toilet isn't a comfortable chair. My mission is to get in and get out. Hanging out doesn't make sense to me. I'm 53 so I don't think it's just a matter of understanding when I'm older.

You must not have small children in the house. It's the only quiet time I get to myself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 19, 2021, 10:17:40 AM
^That. And sometimes you just have to be...patient...until things, er - come out as planned.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 19, 2021, 02:18:18 PM
Now reading The Invited by Jennifer McMahon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on September 19, 2021, 07:57:46 PM
I've read Storm over Iraq.  Agreed, it is quite good.  I gave my copy to Mirth a few years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: fran on September 25, 2021, 11:06:50 AM
Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana: Minute by Minute
Chris Peers
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Uberhaus on September 25, 2021, 02:49:19 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on September 10, 2021, 12:05:44 PM
Mine would laugh at me for saying, "Mess-er Shits". Then tell Grandma I said a bad word. That's why I keep a secret stash of Snickers for bribery purposes.  ^-^

Old skit about foreign pilots in the Battle of Britain:

BBC announcer,  "we will remind our audience that Focke, of course refers to the Focke Wulf 190."

Polish pilot, "Dem Fockes were Messerschmidts!"
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 25, 2021, 09:36:52 PM
 :2funny:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on September 26, 2021, 04:03:38 AM
Quote from: Uberhaus on September 25, 2021, 02:49:19 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on September 10, 2021, 12:05:44 PM
Mine would laugh at me for saying, "Mess-er Shits". Then tell Grandma I said a bad word. That's why I keep a secret stash of Snickers for bribery purposes.  ^-^

Old skit about foreign pilots in the Battle of Britain:

BBC announcer,  "we will remind our audience that Focke, of course refers to the Focke Wulf 190."

Polish pilot, "Dem Fockes were Messerschmidts!"

Posted this before but it stays funny !

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on September 27, 2021, 05:39:36 PM
^Too funny!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 29, 2021, 10:45:57 AM
Just finishing "Sea of Thunder" by Evan Thomas

https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Thunder-Commanders-Campaign-1941-1945/dp/0743252217/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1632925143&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Thunder-Commanders-Campaign-1941-1945/dp/0743252217/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1632925143&sr=8-1)

The book takes a first hand view of the battle of Leyte from the perspectives four commanders, two Japanese and two American (Japanese admirals Kurita who commanded the Japanese strike force and Ugaki who led the battleships, Admiral Halsey and Commander Ernest Evans of the destroyer USS Johnston).

The book is an exciting telling of the battle that at times feels more like a novel than a history book (I mean this in the best possible way; the book is very entertaining). 

The book explains how botched communications and a bit of a personality cult around Halsey combined to have him leave the back door open for a Japanese attack on light naval forces supporting the Leyte landings. The book has a great 'you are there' feel when it describes the Japanese battle line descending on the surprised group of US destroyers and "Jeep" carriers (CVEs).

One of the commanders covered, Commander Ernest Evans, reacted immediately to the surprise attack and took his destroyer and charged the Japanese battle line. He fired all of his torpedoes, hit a cruiser, and then came back to attack again with his pop guns. The USS Johnston was sunk after three hours of fighting. Evans went down with the ship and the survivors would float in shark infested waters for three days. Evans, a Cherokee from Oklahoma and Annapolis graduate, was given a posthumous Medal of Honor.   

The battle was the only time that the Japanese super battleship Yamato fired its guns at American ships.

Halsey blundered terribly at Leyte, and combined with his botched seamanship during two later hurricanes, he was nearly sacked. It was only the bravery and fighting spirit of individual American battlegroups, and a generous helping of overwhelming American firepower that won the day.

The choice of Japanese commanders covered by the book is interesting. Ugaki, was a die-hard bitter-ender, who would lead and die in the last kamikaze mission. This flight of 20 or so kamikaze aircraft, flew off after the Emperor had already declared surrender; they disappeared and their fate is uncertain. Kurita, on the other hand was a sailor's admiral, and a humanist. For example, he refused to let his men kill American seamen in the water. After Leyte, he was put in charge of the Japanese naval academy. There he encouraged his cadets to learn English and withheld them from combat ship duty so that they would be able to help the Japanese nation in what he knew would be a hard post-war existence.

During the battle, Kurita 'pulled his punch' at Leyte and retreated before doing much damage to the surprised Americans. For this retreat, Kurita has often been criticized. While the reason for the retreat has never been fully understood, according the the book, at the end his life Kurita admitted that he just did not want to waste the lives of the sailors under him. 

Despite the surprise, the battle of Leyte was a tremendous loss for the Japanese. The cream of the Imperial Navy was nearly wiped away, and the brief success of the Japanese battle line, did not counter the tremendous losses the Japanese took overall.

If the book has any faults, it does start a little a slow, and some of the background discussion it has is a little uninspired.   

Still, if you want a good first person views of the War in the Pacific, I recommend the book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on September 29, 2021, 03:44:34 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on September 29, 2021, 10:45:57 AM
Just finishing "Sea of Thunder" by Evan Thomas

https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Thunder-Commanders-Campaign-1941-1945/dp/0743252217/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1632925143&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Thunder-Commanders-Campaign-1941-1945/dp/0743252217/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1632925143&sr=8-1)

...
During the battle, Kurita 'pulled his punch' at Leyte and retreated before doing much damage to the surprised Americans. For this retreat, Kurita has often been criticized. While the reason for the retreat has never been fully understood, according the the book, at the end his life Kurita admitted that he just did not want to waste the lives of the sailors under him. 
...

Kurita's actions at Leyte are a fascinating study (Halsey?  Notsomuch.  He screwed up.  FWIW, Halsey's poor performance at Leyte is studied at the Naval War College, so at least the USN tries to learn from its mistakes.... >:D)  A good article on Kurita was written by Evan Thomas in Naval History in 2004.  Thomas begins by quoting   Winston Churchill, who writing of Kurita, said "It may well be that [his] mind had become confused by the pressure of events. . . . Those who have endured a similar ordeal may judge him."   I think those are an appropriate warning when discussing Kurita.  When the Central Force sighted TAFFEY 3, it had been under almost constant attack for over 24 hours.  First, Kurita was suffering from  a persistent case of dengue fever.  Second, on 23 October Kurita's flagship, the Atago took four torpedoes from USS Darter (SS-227), and sank in 18 minutes, forcing Kurita to  literally swim for his life.  Also lost in the same attack were heavy cruisers Maya (sunk) and Takao (crippled). 

The next day, his force was hammered in San Bernardino Strait by Halsey's aircraft, which sunk the "unsinkable" battleship  Musashi, achieving 17 bomb and 19 torpedo hits.  CA Myōkō was also crippled.

Within hours of engaging TAFFEY 1, 2, and 3, the fierce resistance of the USN aircraft and vessels had  moderately damaged Nagato and Kongō.  Heavy cruisers  Chōkai, Chikuma and Suzuya were sunk and  Kumano had her bow blown off by a torpedo.  So by the time Kurita ordered the Center Force to withdraw, he was sick, tired, and likely highly stressed from 48 hours of combat, the previous 20 hours which had be particularly intense. 

I personally think that this is a case study in battlefield psychology, and also an argument for the importance of unrelenting resistance, even in the face of overwhelming odds (assuming the strategic situation justifies such resistance).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 29, 2021, 09:56:36 PM
I've always believed that Japanese admirals viewed the fleet as such a national asset that none of them wanted to be the one responsible for loosing it. That would explain Kurita's decision to turn for home rather than continue into Leyte Gulf and go after the Invasion Force there. It might have wrecked the invasion but would have meant the end of the most precious fleet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 05, 2021, 08:40:37 AM
Now reading Death on the Devil's Teeth: The Strange Murder That Shocked Suburban New Jersey by Jesse Pollack and Mark Moran.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 05, 2021, 10:24:43 AM
Half way through "Burton" by Byron Farwell

This is a biography of Richard Burton, the Victorian explorer (not the 20th century actor).

I am enjoying the book more than I thought I would. Burton was an archetype of the Victorian adventurer, but at the same time an iconoclast. Some of his exploits sound like one of Kipling's barrack ballads.

For example, Burton sometimes managed to get himself in trouble over women. Either pursuing the daughter of a high official, or in one case trying to run-off with a willing Catholic nun from a Goa convent. He broke into the convent in the middle of night to help the nun escape. In the darkened halls of the convent, he entered the wrong room and accidently grabbed the wrong nun. Burton's plans were dashed when the nun he grabbed started screaming. After that, the local Portuguese garrison put the convent on lockdown and Burton never saw the nun who was the target of his affections again. 

At the same time, Burton had a scholarly serious side.

Along with John Speke, he discovered the lakes Tanganyika and Victoria, the source of the Nile.

His ability to learn languages and study customs was prodigious. This ability came in handy when he famously went on the pilgrimage to Mecca, disguised as an Afghani doctor, at a time when being caught as an English "Nazarian" would have meant death.

He was a master swordsman, a poet, a translator (he translated the Arabian Nights and the Karma Sutra), a soldier, a keen student of religion (but was an atheist himself), and an adventurer.

But Burton was probably too curious for Victorian sensibilities. His open discussion of sexuality among the cultures he studied put him on the fringe of polite society (some aspects of his studies are still cringe-worthy today). Also, he seemed to have trouble with authority. As a subaltern in the East India Company he sometimes clashed with his superiors. Later in life, as the British Consulate General in Damascus, he spent most of his time in the desert, exploring, and meeting with tribesmen. This made his superiors uncomfortable, and he was recalled. 

Burton also had some very dark aspects to his character. For example, he said he was anti-slavery, but he still allowed members of his expeditions in Africa to buy and sell slaves. Burton befriended Arab slavers. Also while he seemed to admire many aspects of the cultures and people he came into contact with, he still exhibited the patronizing racism seen in many British Victorians.

Anyway, I am still reading. But I can say that if Victorian adventurers are of interest, this is a very good book. It is particularly good because the book does not engage in hero worship, but talks about the good and bad.

https://www.amazon.com/Burton-Biography-Sir-Richard-Francis/dp/0670813338/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1633445144&sr=8-4 (https://www.amazon.com/Burton-Biography-Sir-Richard-Francis/dp/0670813338/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1633445144&sr=8-4)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 05, 2021, 11:54:56 AM
I personally always enjoy reading about Victorian explorers/adventurers...even the saucy parts in the convents.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 07, 2021, 03:57:34 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 05, 2021, 11:54:56 AM
I personally always enjoy reading about Victorian explorers/adventurers...even the saucy parts in the convents.

You might enjoy the 1990 movie about Burton's 1858 expedition with John Speke to find the source of the Nile and the strained friendship / rivalry between the two. The movie is called "Mountains of the Moon." It's not a great movie, but covers the history pretty well.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100196/ (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100196/)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 07, 2021, 07:05:44 PM
^Thanks, I remember when that came out - never saw it though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 10, 2021, 04:12:41 PM
About to start The Ultimate Evil: The Search for the Sons of Sam by Maury Terry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 10, 2021, 06:42:55 PM
Just starting "Kings of the Air: French Aces and Airmen of the Great War" by Ian Summer

Most of the books I've read about the WWI air war over the Western Front were written by British writers, and often gave little consideration to the French.

But French aviation was in a very advanced state during WWI, and you could argue was superior to the British air service in many areas. So I wanted to get a book that concentrated on the French.

This book seems to be exactly what I was looking for. Only a chapter in, but so far very happy with it.

https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Air-French-Airmen-Great/dp/1783463384/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=kings+of+the+air&qid=1633908701&sr=8-3 (https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Air-French-Airmen-Great/dp/1783463384/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=kings+of+the+air&qid=1633908701&sr=8-3)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 10, 2021, 07:12:50 PM
^Thanks, just added that to my cart.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on October 29, 2021, 11:34:56 AM
I'm in the middle of the second book of Shelby Foote's The Civil War: A Narrative trilogy and I can't recommend the series enough. I've read James M. McPherson's book over and over and it's super good. But since I enjoyed Foote in the PBS Civil War series, I thought I would try his books and I'm very happy I did. The details in Foote's books are fantastic obviously with three huge books in the series. I'm just at the point that the Confederates are about to launch Pickett's charge. I learned quite a bit of new stuff in Foote's books as for example Foote went into details about the New Mexico campaign which I never read before.

I also managed to buy the fourth volume of Christer Bergström's Eastern Front air war series Black Cross Red Star -- Air War Over the Eastern Front: Volume 4: Stalingrad to Kuban 1942-1943. Looking forward to reading it once I'm done Foote's series.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 02, 2021, 04:38:21 PM
I recently finished Killing Rommel by Steven Pressfield.  I think that's the fourth of his books I've read, and they've all been truly fantastic.

The book is a fictional story about the Long Range Desert Group in North Africa during WW2.  They have a mission to kill Rommel that becomes quite the cluster-f as the book goes on.  I don't know much about the North Africa campaigns, nor about the LRDG, so it was all new material to me.  Very highly recommended!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 02, 2021, 05:00:06 PM
^I have Killing Rommel on my list, but I want to read Pressfield's The Lion's Gate first.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 02, 2021, 10:28:31 PM
I started reading Lion's Gate and switched to Killing Rommel.  Lion's Gate didn't immediately resonate with me.  It's historical based on interviews so it's not as fast moving as his fiction.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 02, 2021, 10:34:03 PM
Hmm, didn't know that...
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: pochepiller on December 02, 2021, 10:43:52 PM
Strategy and tactics quarterly
On Alexander The Great.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 03, 2021, 12:31:23 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 02, 2021, 10:34:03 PM
Hmm, didn't know that...

Don't let me stop you.  I liked what I read, but it just wasn't quite what I was expecting, and I have a few of this books in my Kindle waiting to be read so I just moved on.

I haven't read a bad book by Pressfield yet, so I'm sure there's a very good story in there.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 03, 2021, 12:46:35 PM
Yeah he has become one of my favorite writers.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 03, 2021, 03:51:22 PM
On the advice of friend, I recently finished The Longships by Frans Bengtsson.

This is a historical fiction novel about the life and times of a Danish chieftain who spends a good part of his time "a-Viking" around 1000 AD.

The book is an adventure story that ranges from the cold waters off the Danish coast, to Ireland, to Spain and Russia. In some ways I felt it was like what a Horatio Hornblower novel would be like if Hornblower had been a Dane in 1000 AD. Plenty of action and great characters.

It is an older book, with English translation from the Swedish from the 1950s, but is still widely available. Apparently at one point in the 1950s, it was the most widely read book in Sweden.

It is very good.

https://www.amazon.com/The-Long-Ships-audiobook/dp/B077SM99ZZ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1638563875&sr=1-3 (https://www.amazon.com/The-Long-Ships-audiobook/dp/B077SM99ZZ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1638563875&sr=1-3)

As a side note, this book has nothing to do with the 1964 movie of the same name. That movie, staring Richard Widmark is pretty "weak tea" in my book. The movie kinda, sorta feels like the plot is related to the book...but not really close.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 03, 2021, 03:55:48 PM
I read that a few years ago and agree, it's a fantastic book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 09, 2021, 10:23:58 AM
Haven't posted in here in a while as I was reading a lot of horror and true crime which I didn't think peeps would care about. Now I am back to reading history and have started 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles Mann. About 50 pages in and it is excellent - has a strong 'Guns, Germs and Steel' vibe while presenting tons of info that I did not know and is generally more interesting (to me) than Jared Diamond's book (although I still enjoyed it).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 09, 2021, 01:05:02 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 09, 2021, 10:23:58 AM
Haven't posted in here in a while as I was reading a lot of horror and true crime which I didn't think peeps would care about. Now I am back to reading history and have started 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles Mann. About 50 pages in and it is excellent - has a strong 'Guns, Germs and Steel' vibe while presenting tons of info that I did not know and is generally more interesting (to me) than Jared Diamond's book (although I still enjoyed it).

+1 on 1491 being a good book, and eye-opening.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on December 09, 2021, 02:54:34 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 09, 2021, 10:23:58 AM
Haven't posted in here in a while as I was reading a lot of horror and true crime which I didn't think peeps would care about. Now I am back to reading history and have started 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles Mann. About 50 pages in and it is excellent - has a strong 'Guns, Germs and Steel' vibe while presenting tons of info that I did not know and is generally more interesting (to me) than Jared Diamond's book (although I still enjoyed it).

I'm curious.  Does this book appear to be, how should I ask this, communist revisionist history?  Do they talk about killing the white man because he's evil and can never change?  Or is it an actual history book that uncovers some previously unknown legitimate facts about the new continent?

I'm not trying to be sarcastic but my great fear about modern day history books is that it's all pre-programmed agenda driven history rather than actual authentic history. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 09, 2021, 02:59:37 PM
It was written about 15 years ago so it's not that new. You know my online persona pretty well...would I read anything as revisionist as what you posted??

COME ON MAN
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on December 09, 2021, 03:08:23 PM
Quote from: Gusington on December 09, 2021, 02:59:37 PM
It was written about 15 years ago so it's not that new. You know my online persona pretty well...would I read anything as revisionist as what you posted??

COME ON MAN

Yes I do know you brother.  I'm just watching out for my bros.   ;)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 09, 2021, 03:47:16 PM
I can send you my copy of 1491 when I'm done!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on December 09, 2021, 07:36:57 PM
^Cool!  I'd like that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 09, 2021, 08:46:37 PM
PM me your address.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 23, 2021, 11:59:35 AM
Almost done with 1491 and have thoroughly enjoyed it...W8 I will send the copy to you next week. Planning on reading 1493 soon too.

First though I am thinking of reading The Teutonic Knights by Henryk Sienkiewwicz. The copy I have is an ex-library copy and weighs in at close to 800 pages, so it is a bit intimidating.

Anyone here read and finish it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on December 23, 2021, 02:52:32 PM
^Cool thanks Gus!  Hold off until after the new year though.  I will be away visiting the outlaws next week. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 23, 2021, 03:11:51 PM
 alrighty
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on December 23, 2021, 05:37:08 PM
I read it a long time ago.  I liked it, but you have to flow with the writing style.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2022, 11:26:06 AM
Just finished Castles and Fortified Cities of Medieval Europe - An Illustrated History by Jean-Denis G.G. LePage and about to begin Medieval Handgonnes - The First Black Powder Infantry Weapons by Sean McLachlan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: twitter3 on January 03, 2022, 02:08:14 PM
I have started Destiny Can Wait about Polish pilots and their contributions during WWII.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on January 03, 2022, 05:37:18 PM
My first published, book actually.   :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on January 03, 2022, 05:44:21 PM
Quote from: SirAndrewD on January 03, 2022, 05:37:18 PM
My first published, book actually.   :D

Congrats.  Mind linking it?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on January 03, 2022, 05:53:07 PM
Quote from: al_infierno on January 03, 2022, 05:44:21 PM

Congrats.  Mind linking it?

When it's out.  It's in endorsements right now. 

It's kind of a cheat, I'm a C-Suite for the publisher and it's just a book about my Sales Method with a real eye towards it being a lead gen piece for my company.  It's called "Don't Buy the Watch".
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 03, 2022, 07:09:15 PM
Quote from: SirAndrewD on January 03, 2022, 05:53:07 PM

It's called "Don't Buy the Watch".

>:(   >:(   :knuppel2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 03, 2022, 08:07:49 PM
^Hahaha

Congrats D

I think
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on January 04, 2022, 12:31:29 AM
Just started on My War Gone By, I Miss It So by Anthony Loyd.  Basically a memoir about a war correspondent's experience in the Bosnian War, but it reads like a superbly written war thriller.  The prose is great and he's quite good at elucidating his thoughts and experiences.  Definitely recommended.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on January 05, 2022, 11:05:25 AM
I just got two new books, "The Eastern Fleet and the Indian Ocean 1942-1944" and "Stalin's War on Japan: The Red Army's Manchurian Strategic Offensive Operation 1945" both by Charles Stephenson. That should keep the Old Guy busy a while.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2022, 11:12:04 AM
Interesting al...I enjoy Balkan history, will look up that title on The Amazon.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 07, 2022, 04:43:53 PM
About to start The Medieval Cannon by Jonathan Davies, A. Hook, J. Shumate, and S. Walsh (Osprey New Vanguard).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 11, 2022, 12:19:41 PM
Now reading The Art of Renaissance Warfare from the Fall of Constantinople to the Thirty Years War by Stephen Turnbull.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 11, 2022, 02:06:26 PM
Just finished "Truman" by David McCullogh. A bio of President Harry Truman...and very long at over 1000 pages.

A good solid biography of a unique President and politician. They really don't make them like Truman anymore.

Truman was famous as a kind of "everyman" who would roll up his sleeves, take responsibility and take action. On the bad side, he was "no nonsense" to a fault, often too direct and lacking nuance or flexibility. For example, he nearly "conscripted" rail workers to end a nation-wide strike; but before he actually did it, he got lucky when the unions and owners "blinked." He also briefly had the Government take over steel mills to end a nation-wide steel strike (this brought the two sides to concede enough ground to end the strike). Both actions were a little "over-the-top" and may have even been illegal.

But sometimes his directness was exactly what was needed. For example, when the Soviets blockaded Berlin, Truman ordered the US military to do an airlift. His generals did not want to do it because they thought it would fail. But Truman gave clear direct orders to get it going, and after a slow start, the US and UK air bridge paid off, forcing to Stalin to lift the blockade.

He was in the hot seat during some of history's greatest events; Potsdam, the Axis surrenders, the Marshall Plan, the Berlin Airlift, and the Korean War. Despite intense political pressure, he fired MacArthur who wanted to take the Korean War to the Chinese, and who routinely disregarded Truman's guidance. By removing "Mac" Truman probably kept the Korean War from becoming WWIII. 

The bio is a little long-winded in places and spends too much time on politics for my liking...but having said that, it was interesting to see how a relatively unknown local politician became first a senator, then President. It was a different time, and I think the forces that brought Truman to the Presidency really could not be harnessed today.

Another interesting thing about Truman was that he was honest and humble. The only real profit he took from his various political positions was the sale of his memoirs toward the end of his life. He would not do product endorsements or take paid positions. He retired to his hometown of Independence, Missouri and just became another citizen. He was not rich and hated pomp, and when he left office, former Presidents did not receive a pension or a Federal security detail (both of these points would later change while he was still alive). He could often be seen driving himself to the downtown office where he wrote his memoirs, or just taking long walks around town (by himself) for his health.   

https://www.amazon.com/Truman-David-McCullough/dp/0671456547/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1641923305&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Truman-David-McCullough/dp/0671456547/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1641923305&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bobarossa on January 12, 2022, 07:12:10 PM
McCullough won the Pulitzer for Truman.  One of my favorite authors.  Have read Path Between the Seas, The Wright Brothers, and 1776.  He does not write short books but 1000 seems long even for him!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 12, 2022, 07:39:43 PM
He is one of my favorites too, Brooklyn Bridge is great. I also loved 1776.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 23, 2022, 02:32:04 PM
Just started 'Retreat From Moscow - A New History of Germany's Winter Campaign, 1941-1942' by David Stahel.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 23, 2022, 02:41:15 PM
I recently re-read Catton's Grant Takes Command.  What a fantastic book!  So, I decided to buy and read the second book in the trilogy, Grant Moves South (chronologically this is the book before Command).  Catton is simply a  brilliant writer, I think this is the 8th book of his I've read now.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 31, 2022, 01:39:56 PM
About to begin 'The 900 Days - The Siege of Leningrad' by Harrison Salisbury.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 31, 2022, 05:48:39 PM
Started reading "Fire in the Sky" by Eric Bergerud. This book covers the early airwar over the Solomon Islands and New Guinea in 1942 and 1943.

The book seems to be of those rare books (like Shattered Sword) that adroitly mixes the technical aspects of the war in the air with good story telling. I am still in the beginning parts of the book but liking it.

https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Sky-Air-South-Pacific/dp/081332985X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1643669059&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Sky-Air-South-Pacific/dp/081332985X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1643669059&sr=1-2)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 01, 2022, 12:51:18 PM
^ Suite!

I've seen that book a number of times and never bought it for some reason.  Just purchased!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 04, 2022, 11:31:56 AM
I put 900 Days and Black Earth back on the shelf for reading later...both are not good reading for the dead of winter...too much negativity and darkness, I couldn't handle it.

Switched over to 'Exploring the World of the Druids' by Miranda J. Green.

Happy green druidry.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on February 05, 2022, 11:53:02 PM
Quote from: Silent Disapproval Robot on February 17, 2021, 06:30:17 PM
I just finished Rising Sun, Falling Skies: The Disastrous Java Sea Campaign of World War II by Jeffrey Cox.

It examines the naval aspects of the early war Japanese campaign to take the Philippines, Singapore, and the Dutch East Indies.

I knew the highlights like the sinking of the Repulse and the Prince of Wales, the defeat of the ABDACOM ships,  and dugout Doug's flight from the Philippines to Australia but I knew almost nothing about the details or personalities involved, especially the Dutch.   I found it very informative and easy to read.  The author readily admits his anti-Japanese bias in the preface and that bias does surface repeatedly which j personally found to be somewhat detrimental to the book but I'd still say its well worth reading.

I have several titles in the 2nd World War at Sea series of games from Avalanche Press and enjoy the games quite a bit.  One of the upcoming titles, Java Sea, covers this campaign.  I was going to give it a miss because the several games in the series that I already own don't see enough table time and I thought the battles would be very lopsided with the IJN just swatting aside the ABDA units.  I think I might pick it up after all (along with the upcoming Norway title.)

  The games sound interesting.  I haven't read much lately about the Japanese Co-prosperity sphere since Tower of Skulls...I had some Avalanche Press games about 20 years ago and gave most of them away.  Now I'm thinking about getting a few of the more recent Second World War At Sea Titles...even the fantasy ones with super zeppelins in Antarctica or Tierra Del Fuego or Brazil where the Imperial German navy saves the world (or at least its sources of cheap frozen beef) with its autogyros.  Norway and Java sound a little more grounded in reality so to speak.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on February 06, 2022, 11:17:46 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on January 31, 2022, 05:48:39 PM
Started reading "Fire in the Sky" by Eric Bergerud. This book covers the early airwar over the Solomon Islands and New Guinea in 1942 and 1943.

The book seems to be of those rare books (like Shattered Sword) that adroitly mixes the technical aspects of the war in the air with good story telling. I am still in the beginning parts of the book but liking it.

https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Sky-Air-South-Pacific/dp/081332985X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1643669059&sr=1-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Sky-Air-South-Pacific/dp/081332985X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1643669059&sr=1-2)

Ditto!  Would suggest Touched with Fire: The Land War in the Pacific by the same fellow if you haven't read it already.

And am also reading Soldiers of the Sun: The Rise and Fall of the Imperial Japanese Army by the Harries couple.  Not as dry as I feared it might be.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 06, 2022, 02:01:27 PM
^I read Soldiers of the Sun a while back and enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on February 06, 2022, 06:10:41 PM
Blitzed: Drugs in the Third Reich by Norman Ohler.  Tightly written and entertaining account of the rise of amphetamines in Germany and Hitler's infamous daily drug cocktail.  Highly recommended for anyone interested in the subject.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 06, 2022, 09:11:34 PM
I just started reading Fire in the Sky based on Arizona's recommendation.  I'm not enjoying it as much as I'd hoped, but we're still in the preliminaries so I'm going to hand in there a bit longer.

Still working on Grant Goes South and just am not enjoying it as much as the later Grant Takes Command.  Early Grant just isn't as appealing to me as is mid-late war stage Grant.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 06, 2022, 09:13:25 PM
That Java campaign book sounds pretty bloody interesting.  I've been thinking just today of expanding my Pacific Theater reading into more obscure parts like Java and Burma.  I've read the death out of the Solomons Campaign.

I've been wanting to start a good book on the Coastwatchers as well, a subject about which I know almost nothing.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on February 08, 2022, 10:57:16 AM
I'm supposed to be reading about 40 titles from the Osprey Men at Arms series, but the USPS has somehow lost the package. It was sent by the seller in Alexandria, Virginia on 1/14 and was supposed to be delivered on 1/18. The last time the package was scanned was when it departed VA on the 14th and absolutely no activity since then. I filed a missing mail search request and so far nothing. Very frustrating. i think this is actually the first time I've legit had a package go missing. I guess that means I' m lucky overall, but this set was a good deal. I'll be really pissed if it doesn't turn up. It was a good deal, but it wasn't cheap.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 08, 2022, 12:12:04 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on February 08, 2022, 10:57:16 AM
I'm supposed to be reading about 40 titles from the Osprey Men at Arms series, but the USPS has somehow lost the package...

I have been lucky with USPS up to this point as well. Thousands of packages over the last 20 years and not one lost.

If given the choice, I always ask for USPS for that reason.

So I am surprised to hear that USPS have "lost" your shipment.

UPS is a different story...I usually always have some sort of issue with UPS...not so much lost, but redirected to the wrong location, or they can't find my address...but won't go into detail here.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 08, 2022, 12:54:49 PM
Quote from: Toonces on February 06, 2022, 09:11:34 PM
I just started reading Fire in the Sky based on Arizona's recommendation.  I'm not enjoying it as much as I'd hoped, but we're still in the preliminaries so I'm going to hand in there a bit longer.

Sorry to hear the book may not be to your taste...hopefully you got a used copy that did not set you back much. I guess the book at times can seem like one of those military staff college "required reading" tomes. But as for me, I enjoyed the technical analysis.

I don't know what you are looking for in terms of the South Pacific air war, but another option is the "South Pacific Air War" series by Michael Claringbould and Peter Ingman. Currently there are four volumes with a fifth on the way. The books currently cover the period March to September 1942.

Each is about 250 pages long, in high quality paperback with many color illustrations; something like Osprey might print. Chapters generally cover a one or two week period, and provide detail of each mission, aircraft losses and squadrons in the field. The appendix has a detailed breakdown of aircraft losses by day, type, how many fatalities, and some details on location and how the loss occurred. In the main text, the authors often discuss individual pilots, and their fates.

The series gets kudos for covering both the Japanese and Allied sides pretty well. The only issue with the books is cost. Brand new, most of the volumes are about $48. You can get them sometimes used for $30. However, "Volume 4, Buna and Milne Bay" is only $28 on Amazon, and might be a good first one to acquire to see if you like the series.

Here are links

Volume One:
https://www.amazon.com/South-Pacific-Air-War-December/dp/0994588941/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3UGNOGHYNS9ZY&keywords=south+pacific+air+war&qid=1644341114&s=books&sprefix=south+pacific+air%2Cstripbooks%2C105&sr=1-3 (https://www.amazon.com/South-Pacific-Air-War-December/dp/0994588941/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3UGNOGHYNS9ZY&keywords=south+pacific+air+war&qid=1644341114&s=books&sprefix=south+pacific+air%2Cstripbooks%2C105&sr=1-3)

Volume Two:
https://www.amazon.com/South-Pacific-Air-War-Struggle/dp/0994588976/ref=pd_bxgy_1/139-5555448-8216232?pd_rd_w=K1cdk&pf_rd_p=6b3eefea-7b16-43e9-bc45-2e332cbf99da&pf_rd_r=Q99XS3SQW65P3CK0ZN6A&pd_rd_r=b239b944-fb4a-4b06-ac77-fa0848948582&pd_rd_wg=xGxwN&pd_rd_i=0994588976&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/South-Pacific-Air-War-Struggle/dp/0994588976/ref=pd_bxgy_1/139-5555448-8216232?pd_rd_w=K1cdk&pf_rd_p=6b3eefea-7b16-43e9-bc45-2e332cbf99da&pf_rd_r=Q99XS3SQW65P3CK0ZN6A&pd_rd_r=b239b944-fb4a-4b06-ac77-fa0848948582&pd_rd_wg=xGxwN&pd_rd_i=0994588976&psc=1)

Volume Three:
https://www.amazon.com/South-Pacific-Air-War-Aftermath/dp/0994588992/ref=pd_bxgy_2/139-5555448-8216232?pd_rd_w=K1cdk&pf_rd_p=6b3eefea-7b16-43e9-bc45-2e332cbf99da&pf_rd_r=Q99XS3SQW65P3CK0ZN6A&pd_rd_r=b239b944-fb4a-4b06-ac77-fa0848948582&pd_rd_wg=xGxwN&pd_rd_i=0994588992&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/South-Pacific-Air-War-Aftermath/dp/0994588992/ref=pd_bxgy_2/139-5555448-8216232?pd_rd_w=K1cdk&pf_rd_p=6b3eefea-7b16-43e9-bc45-2e332cbf99da&pf_rd_r=Q99XS3SQW65P3CK0ZN6A&pd_rd_r=b239b944-fb4a-4b06-ac77-fa0848948582&pd_rd_wg=xGxwN&pd_rd_i=0994588992&psc=1)

Volume Four:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0648665976/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0648665976/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on February 16, 2022, 02:52:20 PM
Yep, I can recommend both of Bergerud's "Fire" books, too!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 16, 2022, 03:38:05 PM
I recently started reading the "Inspector Troy" series by John Lawton.

The first book I read was "Bluffing Mr. Churchill." The book was recommended to me by an old lawyer friend of mine.

https://www.amazon.com/Bluffing-Mr-Churchill/dp/B0798T3F8H/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1ULFFORE5C1PI&keywords=bluffing+mr+churchill&qid=1645043190&sprefix=bluffing+mr%2Caps%2C109&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Bluffing-Mr-Churchill/dp/B0798T3F8H/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1ULFFORE5C1PI&keywords=bluffing+mr+churchill&qid=1645043190&sprefix=bluffing+mr%2Caps%2C109&sr=8-1)

The series takes place in the 40s, 50s and 60s in Great Britain. It reminds me of one of those BBC whodoneits. Specifically, the Inspector Morse Endeavour series.

I am not much of a fiction guy, so I was surprised to find myself liking a detective series. I even read another one in the series "The Lily of the Field" and have started a third "Black Out". The first two books I read were more "espionage" than "detective", but that was fine with me.

The writing is very good, and there are plenty of plot twists. Also they are all historical novels, and they recreate the time and place so very well.

British TV is shared passion between my wife and I, so this series of books is so much like the British detective series on TV that I even got my wife to start reading the books as well. She is really liking the books. That is wonderful since there are few novels / books where our interests intersect enough to enjoy them together.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 16, 2022, 03:42:02 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on February 16, 2022, 02:52:20 PM
Yep, I can recommend both of Bergerud's "Fire" books, too!

I have "Touched with Fire" about the land war in the South Pacific as well. But haven't read it yet. Looking forward to it though.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 27, 2022, 01:56:31 PM
Just started Firebird - A Memoir: The Elusive Fate of Russian Democracy by Andrei Kozyrev. Seems both appropriate and totally out of date because of the Ukraine War. Not sure yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on March 01, 2022, 10:24:35 AM
Just started reading "Company Commander" by Charles MacDonald again.

This is one of the most gritty and detailed memoirs of infantry combat in WWII.

I first read it about 35 years ago when it was required reading in one of the courses I took when I was in the U.S. Army.

I never actually got shot at in the Army, but I spent plenty of time in foxholes, CPs, and on 45 day long exercises. Reading the book again, so many years later, it strikes me as feeling so true. I think the book is probably the closest you can come to understanding what it was like for a US infantry commander in the later part of the war. In that respect, it reminds me of Ernst Junger's "Storm of Steel" from WWI.

Definitely recommend this book.   
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=company+commander+by+charles+macdonald&crid=239TVU8YH8DY8&sprefix=company+comman%2Caps%2C508&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_3_14 (https://www.amazon.com/s?k=company+commander+by+charles+macdonald&crid=239TVU8YH8DY8&sprefix=company+comman%2Caps%2C508&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_3_14)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2022, 05:46:33 PM
Now reading Lenin's Tomb - The Last Days of the Soviet Empire by David Remnick.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on March 11, 2022, 05:57:39 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 11, 2022, 05:46:33 PM
Now reading Lenin's Tomb - The Last Days of the Soviet Empire by David Remnick.

  Reading the monster bio of LBJ.  I think I'll stop in the 1950s (vol 2 or so).  Things have been pretty swell narrative-wise for the Texas Hill Country in the early 20th century.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2022, 06:08:33 PM
^Who's the author?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: MengJiao on March 11, 2022, 08:29:59 PM
Quote from: Gusington on March 11, 2022, 06:08:33 PM
^Who's the author?

   Robert A. Caro...came out in the early 1980s...its the inside story on how to get the inside story if you go all the way into the source notes and such.
   The Years of Lyndon Johnson: The Path to Power  I got a beautiful copy off Amazon Vintage books paperback 1990 for maybe 10 bucks
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on March 11, 2022, 10:10:40 PM
I've just started Putin's Playbook by Rebekah Koffler  and Wilson's Creek by William Piston and Richard Hatcher
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 11, 2022, 11:28:13 PM
 Nice, Meng. One day I aim to read Caro's The Power Broker, on Robert Moses.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 30, 2022, 11:22:43 AM
I'm cranking through John Prados's Islands of Destiny about the Solomons Campaign in WW2.  I started it a while back but never finished it, so now I'm giving it a second go from the beginning.  I'm still not enjoying it very much.  I don't know what happened with this book, but it badly needs an editor.  It reads like a draft of the book.

I also have a few fiction books in the mix: Metro 2033, Crime and Punishment, and The Three Musketeers.  Yeah, I'm trying to hit some of the classics, and I've always wanted to read something by Dostoevsky. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 30, 2022, 01:56:41 PM
The Three Metroteers of 2033: Crimes and Punishments

:D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on March 30, 2022, 02:00:21 PM
I just finished Eight Men Out by Eliot Asinof.

This is a classic history of the infamous "Black Sox" scandal, where eight Chicago White Sox players threw the 1919 World Series to the Cincinnati Reds. They did it at the behest of gamblers for promise of payment.

The book is a well-written account that brings together a cast of greedy gamblers, disgruntled players, selfish owners, and a dumb criminal or two to show how major league baseball was almost destroyed by the worst gambling scandal in its history. The players were brought to trial on fraud charges but were acquitted in the end, as evidence disappeared, and witnesses changed their testimony. Therefore to restore public trust in the game, the Commissioner of Baseball, Judge Kennesaw-Mountain Landis put a lifetime ban on all eight of the players. A few of them were among the best players in history including "Shoeless Joe Jackson", whom Ty Cobb called "the greatest natural hitter" he ever saw. This life-time ban ruling reverberates today since it was the precedent that still keeps Pete Rose out of the game for his gambling mistakes.

The 1988 movie of the same name is a good synopsis of events, and is an interesting watch if you enjoy baseball and it's history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on March 30, 2022, 03:38:32 PM
Numbers in the Dark by Italo Calvino, it's a short story collection and I'm loving it.  The best way I can describe his works is that they're surreal and dreamlike while still being breezy and easy to read.  Some of the stories are more obvious while others take a bit of thought to figure out, but overall it's a much easier read than other "dreamlike" works like, say, Finnegan's Wake.  It also helps that most of these stories are on the short side, ranging from a couple pages to 20-30 at most.

"Conscience", "Like a Flight of Ducks", and "Love Far From Home" are probably the standouts of the collection so far.  The first is a bit absurdist, and more or less deals with the guilt of killing in a war versus killing for a personal vendetta - without giving anything away, it's both bleak and hilarious.  The second two deal in different ways with mentally compromised protagonists, the former in third-person narration and the latter in first-person.  Can't say much about these without giving anything away, but both are quite well done and fresh, even today with "mentally compromised protagonist" stories as oversaturated as they are. 

Also, "Like a Flight of Ducks" is about partisans in Italy at the end of WW2, which makes it relevant to readers here.  O0

Quote from: Toonces on March 30, 2022, 11:22:43 AM
I'm cranking through John Prados's Islands of Destiny about the Solomons Campaign in WW2.  I started it a while back but never finished it, so now I'm giving it a second go from the beginning.  I'm still not enjoying it very much.  I don't know what happened with this book, but it badly needs an editor.  It reads like a draft of the book.

I also have a few fiction books in the mix: Metro 2033, Crime and Punishment, and The Three Musketeers.  Yeah, I'm trying to hit some of the classics, and I've always wanted to read something by Dostoevsky.

Let us know what you think.  I've never tried Metro but I started C&P once and didn't make it very far before getting distracted.  I've best heard Russian lit described as "The author is miserable, the characters are miserable, and you are miserable." 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Giappy on March 31, 2022, 04:32:33 AM
"The Gathering Storm" by Winston Churchill.

I suppose if I had any sense of how to seriously study history (versus decades of random documentaries, articles and books) I would have known enough to get the perspective of one of the main participants at the outset...

I didn't know better, but better late than never.

I'm now wondering how many other great memoirs/autobiographies (at least by political leaders) I've missed.

I think I've avoided the genre because of the author's (politician's) interest in spinning things to their advantage...and with limited time for reading maybe time is better allocated to less biased (albeit drier) sources...

With all that said it's hard to beat a firsthand account.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on March 31, 2022, 11:22:14 AM
I forgot to mention that I'm working through The Gathering Storm as well.  I just got to the part where Germany invades Poland.  I am not enjoying it at all.  I'm hoping that when the shooting starts it gets better, but man alive, the foreground leading up to the war was hard to get through.

I finally gave up on Islands of Destiny.  It is just not well written and I couldn't take it anymore.  I switched to The Fleet at Flood Tide by Hornfischer.  I know he can write!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 31, 2022, 12:15:12 PM
Finished up Collapse: The Fall of the Soviet Union by Vladimir Zubok and now am into Iron Curtain: The Crushing of Eastern Europe by Anne Applebaum.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 31, 2022, 01:16:53 PM
I can tell you from now-long-personal experience: if you don't like The Gathering Storm by the time the shooting starts, you might as well give up and maybe find an abridged set of his WW2 memoirs, because all five volumes (and his WW1 memoir volumes) are going to be like that. Churchill can be a great writer, but he's rarely going for artistic effect in those two sets (which are 9 or 10 volumes, each of them 2 books each). Mostly he's trying to provide an archive of correspondence between himself and other principals, and his side of those correspondences aren't meant to be very artistic either. You'll get some dry turns of phrase occasionally, and some clever anecdotes on rare occasion, but that's it.

I'm chugging slowly through Vol 4, Closing the Ring, mostly about Italy and surrounding areas in 1943, early 44, and I'm having to salt it with chapters from several other books in between. In my defense, I started all the way back at Vol 1 of his History of English-Speaking Peoples, and have gone through that set and The World Crisis volumes on WW1, so I'm about worn out. ;) But for what it's worth, his first set is more artistically written, closer to what you'd expect for listening to Churchill. (I suspect his mere memoirs, so to speak, are much less dry, too, such as regarding his early military career.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Giappy on March 31, 2022, 02:31:10 PM
Quote from: JasonPratt on March 31, 2022, 01:16:53 PM
I can tell you from now-long-personal experience: if you don't like The Gathering Storm by the time the shooting starts, you might as well give up and maybe find an abridged set of his WW2 memoirs, because all five volumes (and his WW1 memoir volumes) are going to be like that...

I'm chugging slowly through Vol 4, Closing the Ring, mostly about Italy and surrounding areas in 1943, early 44, and I'm having to salt it with chapters from several other books in between. In my defense, I started all the way back at Vol 1 of his History of English-Speaking Peoples, and have gone through that set and The World Crisis volumes on WW1, so I'm about worn out. ;) But for what it's worth, his first set is more artistically written, closer to what you'd expect for listening to Churchill. (I suspect his mere memoirs, so to speak, are much less dry, too, such as regarding his early military career.)

Toonces--I was going to say the same thing as JasonPratt (i.e. just give up or get an abridged set if it's not enjoyable).  I'm on chapter 26 of 38 and have really enjoyed it, but then again it's been spread out over many months.

JasonPratt-I bet you are about worn out!  That is *a lot* of WSC!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 31, 2022, 03:03:18 PM
I will say I liked the first two WW2 volumes better than the two films made (very very loosely) from them. They are both very much warts-and-all biopics, which certainly doesn't have to be a bad thing; but they emphasized the warts so much, I don't recall anything particularly admirable about Churchill from those films. (He gives a few famous speeches but those might as well be from different films.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on April 02, 2022, 05:39:35 PM
I actually started liking The Gathering Storm a whole lot better once the shooting started.  The Norway campaign was really interesting.  I finally finished it up and moved on to Volume 2: Their Finest Hour. 

I'm finding that if I just skip/skim the political stuff it's a much better read.  The first half of The Gathering Storm was a real slog IMO.  Important, but still not very interesting to me.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: fran on April 05, 2022, 10:36:29 AM
Finished Brothers in arms: By tank to Germany by James Holland

Currently reading The battle of Midway by Craig L. Symonds. Really enjoying it so far. Up to Chapter 8, the Battle of Coral Sea
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 14, 2022, 10:41:45 AM
Now reading The Early Chinese Empires: Qin and Han by Mark Edward Lewis.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 21, 2022, 08:12:12 AM
Just started The Trojan War: A New History by Barry Strauss:

https://amzn.to/3yRhKG3

I know nothing about the Trojan War so hoping to learn a few things.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 21, 2022, 08:47:26 AM
Just finishing "The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire 1936-1945" by John Toland.

The book covers the Pacific War mostly from the Japanese point of view. This is an older book (written in 1970) and therefore does not have benefit from recent scholarship. Still, I have not seen any other single volume that covers the Japanese side so well. It is particularly good at addressing the several pre-war military coup attempts that while not successful, still managed to drive Japan into the militarist's corner. The book also does a great job in describing the various military rebellions after Nagasaki, that attempted to stop Japan's ultimate surrender. This book won a well deserved Pulitzer Prize in its time.

https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bobarossa on May 21, 2022, 09:15:59 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on May 21, 2022, 08:47:26 AM
Just finishing "The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire 1936-1945" by John Toland.

The book covers the Pacific War mostly from the Japanese point of view. This is an older book (written in 1970) and therefore does not have benefit from recent scholarship. Still, I have not seen any other single volume that covers the Japanese side so well. It is particularly good at addressing the several pre-war military coup attempts that while not successful, still managed to drive Japan into the militarist's corner. The book also does a great job in describing the various military rebellions after Nagasaki, that attempted to stop Japan's ultimate surrender. This book won a well deserved Pulitzer Prize in its time.

https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2)
Been a longggg time since I read it but try The Pacific War 1931-1945 by Saburo Ienaga.  I think this is where I learned about the military control of Japanese education in the early part of the century leading to the mindset that led to war.  Written in 1978 so same age problem as Toland. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on May 21, 2022, 12:05:14 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on May 21, 2022, 08:47:26 AM
Just finishing "The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire 1936-1945" by John Toland.

The book covers the Pacific War mostly from the Japanese point of view. This is an older book (written in 1970) and therefore does not have benefit from recent scholarship. Still, I have not seen any other single volume that covers the Japanese side so well. It is particularly good at addressing the several pre-war military coup attempts that while not successful, still managed to drive Japan into the militarist's corner. The book also does a great job in describing the various military rebellions after Nagasaki, that attempted to stop Japan's ultimate surrender. This book won a well deserved Pulitzer Prize in its time.

https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2)

Won't lie; this is on my "re-read," list more often than not.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 21, 2022, 07:04:54 PM
Quote from: bobarossa on May 21, 2022, 09:15:59 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on May 21, 2022, 08:47:26 AM
Just finishing "The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire 1936-1945" by John Toland.

The book covers the Pacific War mostly from the Japanese point of view. This is an older book (written in 1970) and therefore does not have benefit from recent scholarship. Still, I have not seen any other single volume that covers the Japanese side so well. It is particularly good at addressing the several pre-war military coup attempts that while not successful, still managed to drive Japan into the militarist's corner. The book also does a great job in describing the various military rebellions after Nagasaki, that attempted to stop Japan's ultimate surrender. This book won a well deserved Pulitzer Prize in its time.

https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sun-Decline-Japanese-1936-1945/dp/0812968581/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653140163&sr=8-2)

Been a longggg time since I read it but try The Pacific War 1931-1945 by Saburo Ienaga.  I think this is where I learned about the military control of Japanese education in the early part of the century leading to the mindset that led to war.  Written in 1978 so same age problem as Toland.

Thanks, I will check it out.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 01, 2022, 08:05:15 AM
Now reading 1177BC: The Year Civilization Collapsed by Eric H. Cline.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on June 01, 2022, 08:07:10 AM
Ooo, the Bronze Age collapse? Sea Peoples? Giants from Atlantis?! :D
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 01, 2022, 08:29:57 AM
^Yes, all of the above. I'm taking notes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 09, 2022, 11:09:46 AM
Now reading Sparta at War: Strategy, Tactics, Campaigns 550BC-362BC by Scott Rusch.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 16, 2022, 09:41:08 AM
Just finished The Earth is Weeping, by Peter Cozzens. A very good overview of the Indian Wars in the American West.

The book does a very good job in being balanced, calling out the good and bad actors on all sides. While the scope of the book is broad, it does go into quite a bit of detail regarding major actions. It uses a great deal of first-hand accounts and was very fresh and informative. I recommend for anyone interested in the period.

The book often uses a "just the facts" approach to controversial topics, letting the reader decide on the "right" and "wrong."

There are plenty of tales of heroism, men of good character, fights against long odds, and miracle victories. But there are also tales of incompetence, assassination, corruption, evil-intent and savagery on all sides.   

https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on June 17, 2022, 11:50:15 AM
Really liked Cozzen's Civil War books though I haven't read the Shenandoah one yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on June 17, 2022, 12:07:30 PM
The Chinese Invasion Threat (to Taiwan).  A good overview of the challenges faced by the PRC in a Taiwan invasion scenario.  However, I think the author does not have any military experience, so some of his analysis is less nuanced than I think is called for.  With that said, it is worth the read, for those interested in the topic.

https://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Invasion-Threat-American-Strategy/dp/1788691768/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GXN81ZNHLQH7&keywords=the+chinese+invasion+threat&qid=1655431907&s=books&sprefix=THe+Chinese+Inva%2Cstripbooks%2C132&sr=1-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 20, 2022, 03:40:19 PM
About to start The Bronze Lie: Shattering the Myth of Spartan Warrior Supremacy by Myke Cole.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on June 20, 2022, 03:57:20 PM
Just finished Apache, by Ed Macy.

Interesting book about British Apache pilots in Afghanistan in the 2007-2008 time frame.

The book culminates in the author's experience as one of the Apache pilots (he was actually CPG on the flight) providing close air support in Operation Glacier Two, which after turning into a total failure, was converted into a rescue mission to save Royal Marines Commando Mathew Ford, who was injured and accidentally left behind enemy lines. Macy, his pilot and one other Apache got 4 Royal Marines volunteers to fly into the battlezone on the pylon wings of their Apaches in order to get Ford and fly him out. It was an extremely risky (and courageous) effort that had never been attempted in combat. All of the Apache crews were awarded the MC for their bravery. Macy actually received the medal for his action on the ground! It is the one and only time in the history of British aviation where a medal was awarded for combat actions on land.



I bought this when DCS Apache came out, so it was a good companion to my own simming.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on June 20, 2022, 10:03:15 PM
Halfway through, "Killing The Killers: The Secret War against the Terrorists" by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard. Great so far. Lots of stuff I've not seen elsewhere.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Old TImer on July 06, 2022, 03:38:35 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on June 16, 2022, 09:41:08 AM
Just finished The Earth is Weeping, by Peter Cozzens. A very good overview of the Indian Wars in the American West.

https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1)

Thanks for this recommendation.  A very good book.

I just found this thread.  It's going to cost me a small fortune.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on July 06, 2022, 04:19:01 PM
Quote from: gregb41352 on July 06, 2022, 03:38:35 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on June 16, 2022, 09:41:08 AM
Just finished The Earth is Weeping, by Peter Cozzens. A very good overview of the Indian Wars in the American West.

https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1)

Thanks for this recommendation.  A very good book.

I just found this thread.  It's going to cost me a small fortune.

Just got a surprise $5 credit to that book today from Amazon and picked it up.  Added to the ever growing list of unread titles on my Kindle
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 06, 2022, 09:04:27 PM
About 3/4 of the way through "Hell's Angels, The True Story of the 303rd Bomb Group in World War II", by Jay A. Stout.

I was not expecting much from this one, but have been very pleasantly surprised.

The book is mostly personal recollections, but backed by references from US and German official records (for example, if a side gunner in a falling plane talks about not seeing the ball turret gunner jump, the book goes to German records for information on where and how the body was recovered and buried).

There is a great deal of nuts and bolts stuff in this book, adding much detail that helps the reader better get into the experience of the bomber war. I am guessing this is because the author is a retired US Marine Corps fighter pilot himself (he has also written a whole slew of books about WWII US airpower).

Some examples: The book has an extensive discussion of the technology and use of the H2X "Mickey" ground scanning radar. This allowed bomber formations to find large targets in low visibility and cloudy weather. There is also a surprisingly complex discussion of the game of cat and mouse played with German AA batteries. The Germans even resorted to having planes follow the US formations, to radio altitude, speed and heading info to the AA directors; in one case, a captured B-17 may even have been used to do this. Or how later in the war, special brightly painted B-17s were used to help with forming missions up while still over England. There is a ton of this kind of detail...

Really enjoying this one...

https://www.amazon.com/Hells-Angels-Story-303rd-Group/dp/0425274098/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1657158223&sr=8-7 (https://www.amazon.com/Hells-Angels-Story-303rd-Group/dp/0425274098/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1657158223&sr=8-7)   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 06, 2022, 09:08:02 PM
Quote from: nelmsm on July 06, 2022, 04:19:01 PM
Quote from: gregb41352 on July 06, 2022, 03:38:35 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on June 16, 2022, 09:41:08 AM
Just finished The Earth is Weeping, by Peter Cozzens. A very good overview of the Indian Wars in the American West.

https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Earth-Weeping-Story-Indian-American/dp/1786491516/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1655389980&sr=1-1)

Thanks for this recommendation.  A very good book.

I just found this thread.  It's going to cost me a small fortune.

Just got a surprise $5 credit to that book today from Amazon and picked it up.  Added to the ever growing list of unread titles on my Kindle

Glad you guys liked it.  I will probably re-read shortly, just to help it all sink in again. A few weeks back I went to Montana, where some of the fighting took place. The book really helped me better understand the place's history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: WallysWorld on July 10, 2022, 04:03:04 PM
Finished a bunch of books in the past eight months in the following order:

Shelby Foote's Civil War trilogy was well worth the long read (2500 pages). Highly detailed about the war and I can see how he was so popular on the PBS series.

The Peloponnesian War by Donald Kagan. Good size and easy reading book about the Greek wars. Made me want to play as the Delian League in Rome II: Total War.

The Romance of the Three Kingdoms by Luo Guanzhong and translated by Martin Palmer. The Penguin Classic abridged version of the book: about 670 pages. A lot of characters to keep track of so I kept referring to the list of them at the beginning of the book. Very interesting to read and again now I want to play Total War: Three Kingdoms. Glad I finally read this classic.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 10, 2022, 04:17:17 PM
^I enjoyed Kagan's book. It was one of the first books I read on ancient Greek history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on July 10, 2022, 06:11:20 PM
Quote from: WallysWorld on July 10, 2022, 04:03:04 PM
Shelby Foote's Civil War trilogy was well worth the long read (2500 pages). Highly detailed about the war and I can see how he was so popular on the PBS series.

Nah.  It was his syrupy sweet southern drawl. 

(Okay, the man was pretty dang knowledgeable, but that drawl!)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 15, 2022, 08:07:29 AM
Now reading The Scythians - Nomad Warriors of the Steppe by Barry Cunliffe. Excellent writing with great maps and artwork, beautiful book.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on July 16, 2022, 09:03:39 AM
Just finishing "Brothers in Arms: One Legendary Tank Regiment's Bloody War from D-Day to VE-Day", by James Holland.

This is the story of a British tank regiment from D-Day to the end of the war. The "Sherwood Rangers" rode Shermans with a sprinkling of Fireflies and Stuarts.

The book seems to use "Band of Brothers" as a template, and that is not a bad thing. It uses primarily first-person accounts from the men in the regiment to tell the story. A nice touch is that the book also often describes German forces and explains their plans and operations.

For me, the book has a fresh perspective, and made me realize that tankers did not have it easy. Easy to recommend this one.

https://www.amazon.com/Brothers-Arms-Legendary-Regiments-Bloody/dp/0802159087/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1657979629&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Brothers-Arms-Legendary-Regiments-Bloody/dp/0802159087/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1657979629&sr=1-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Old TImer on July 24, 2022, 06:53:58 PM
Just started "Who Can Hold the Sea: The U.S. Navy in the Cold War 1945-1960" by the late
James D. Hornfischer.   A fascinating study of the political, diplomatic and naval situation
during the early Cold War.  Excellent book so far.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09BTPF1PN/ref=kinw_myk_ro_title
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09BTPF1PN/ref=kinw_myk_ro_title)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 26, 2022, 09:30:49 AM
About half-way through, "Fire and Fortitude: The US Army in the Pacific War, 1941-1943" by John C. Mc Manus. Learning a lot I never knew plus, great maps.   O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on July 26, 2022, 04:32:26 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on July 26, 2022, 09:30:49 AM
About half-way through, "Fire and Fortitude: The US Army in the Pacific War, 1941-1943" by John C. Mc Manus. Learning a lot I never knew plus, great maps.   O0

Sounds interesting.  Added to my evergrowing wish list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on July 26, 2022, 10:21:48 PM
There's a second book out now, I can't think of the name, that covers the remainder of the war in the Pacific. Next on my list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: greengiant on July 27, 2022, 08:15:12 AM
Finally getting around to read the Hyperion Cantos.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 01, 2022, 11:02:23 PM
finished Rebels at Sea: Privateering in the American Revolution by Eric Jay Dolan

Very good book on the often overlooked Rebel campaign to harass British shipping with privateers during the American Revolution. While the American Navy was relatively small, there were over 1600 Rebel privateers that sailed the East Coast waters, and later in the war, even hunted in European waters. A contemporary report by Lloyd's of London estimated that Rebel privateers were responsible for cutting off a painful amount of British shipping. The book is comprehensive, even covering the large number of loyalist privateers that hunted the Rebel ships. Plenty of first hand accounts and thoughtful analysis. I enjoyed it and learned a great deal.

https://www.amazon.com/Rebels-Sea-Privateering-American-Revolution/dp/1631498258/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1659412268&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Rebels-Sea-Privateering-American-Revolution/dp/1631498258/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1659412268&sr=1-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 01, 2022, 11:13:02 PM
starting to re-read Masters of the Air: America's Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany by Donald L. Miller

If you have an interest in the US 8th Air Force and bomber war, this is a must read book IMHO.

Very comprehensive. Chock full of tactics, strategy, first hand accounts and biographies of key personalities. Covers the German side as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Masters-Air-Americas-Against-Germany/dp/0743235444/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1659458571&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Masters-Air-Americas-Against-Germany/dp/0743235444/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1659458571&sr=8-1)

As a side note, Masters of the Air is the inspiration for Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks' third TV series about the US in WWII. This time covering the bomber war. I understand that filming has finished and it is now in post-production. Should be released next year on Apple TV.   
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 01, 2022, 11:15:10 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on July 26, 2022, 09:30:49 AM
About half-way through, "Fire and Fortitude: The US Army in the Pacific War, 1941-1943" by John C. Mc Manus. Learning a lot I never knew plus, great maps.   O0

Thanks for pointing this one out. It is now in my queue.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 02, 2022, 05:43:41 AM
Just started 'Rome in Africa' by Susan Raven - archaelogical study of 600 years of Roman history in North Africa.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 02, 2022, 10:35:58 AM
I'm really enjoying, "Fire and Fortitude". The author never misses an opportunity to point-out the failings of 1940's society regarding minorities and prejudices but the level of detail is incredible in every aspect of the Army's WWII Pacific story. A great read.  O0
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 12, 2022, 12:39:47 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on August 02, 2022, 10:35:58 AM
I'm really enjoying, "Fire and Fortitude". The author never misses an opportunity to point-out the failings of 1940's society regarding minorities and prejudices but the level of detail is incredible in every aspect of the Army's WWII Pacific story. A great read.  O0

Reading it now thanks to your recommendation...:) 

The USMC often gets most of the print in the history books. This book points out that it was actually the Army that had a much larger involvement than the Marines. The Army even conducted more amphibious landings than the Marines.

What's the old saying? "The Navy gets the gravy and the Army gets the beans."  and don't forget...  "Join the Navy and see the world. Join the Army and see the Navy."
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 12, 2022, 01:15:42 PM
Also re-reading The Gipper: George Gipp, Knute Rockne, and the Dramatic Rise of Notre Dame Football by Jack Cavanaugh. 

https://www.amazon.com/Gipper-George-Rockne-Dramatic-Football/dp/1616081104/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1660326231&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Gipper-George-Rockne-Dramatic-Football/dp/1616081104/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1660326231&sr=1-1)

This is a pretty light read, about George Gipp. Gipp was probably the greatest college American football player of the early 20th century. An excellent kicker, passer and running back, he held many records (that have since been eclipsed). Gipp played for Notre Dame from 1917 through 1920.

The Gipper was played by Ronald Reagan in the 1940 movie Knute Rockne All American. Gipp died young from pneumonia and strep throat in his senior year. In the movie, from his deathbed, Gipp tells his coach Knute Rockne to go out and tell the team to "win one for the Gipper." Historians disagree about if this actually happened in real life, but it didn't stop Ronald Reagan from using it in his presidential campaign.

The book captures the flavor of college football in its early days. At the time, Notre Dame was going from a small unknown Catholic college team, in what was then a fairly rural part of Indiana, to one of the best football teams in the country.

It was a pretty wild game by today's standards. For example, the best players would double dip...playing four years and graduating from one school, then going on to a different school and playing four more years (professional teams were just starting, so there was no strong economic reason to go pro yet). Army was particularly known for picking up these top players for a second round and had a very strong team as a result. The forward pass was a new animal, and one of Notre Dame's trademarks (in the movie Rockne 'invents' the forward pass. In reality, he did not, but Rockne is probably the first coach to build his offense around it). Also there did not seem to be any strong moral outrage when players gambled on their own games. Gipp apparently made some money this way. He also made quite a bit of money playing billiards and cards.

Anyway, it is a nice easy read if you have interest in American football history.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 13, 2022, 05:16:57 PM
Don't know when I'll get to it, but just picked up (the Kindle edition of) Gangsters vs Nazis!

https://smile.amazon.com/Gangsters-vs-Nazis-Mobsters-Battled-ebook/dp/B09BKDB8Y5

Specifically, Jewish gangsters (like Bugsy Siegel) vs the Nazi gangs of the 30s and 40s.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 25, 2022, 11:25:44 AM
Now reading 'The Last Great War of Antiquity' by James Howard-Johnston.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 25, 2022, 01:53:14 PM
Reading "The Blue Max" by Jack D. Hunter.

This is the book that the movie with George Peppard is based on. For those who haven't seen it, the movie is probably the best WWI air combat story that Hollywood ever produced (IMHO). The story takes place from the German perspective, during the end of WWI. There are some great aerial combat scenes, all done before CGI.

The movie follows the same general story arc as the book, but diverges quite a bit in the details. Hollywood changed the story quite a bit to emphasize Ursula Andres' character and her...ummm...attributes. 

A big change between the book and movie is that in the book the protagonist, Bruno Stachel does not die. In fact, he goes on to star in two other books. In the first, "The Blood Order" he follows the Nazis in post-WWI Germany hoping to get to fly again...but gradually grows to despise them. In the third book, "The Tin Cravat," he defects to the US and returns to Germany to start a resistance movement.

Hunter is a good writer and is mostly known for his spy novels. Apparently he worked in US intelligence during WWII, and has some insight into WWI and post-WWI Germany. I will definitely be picking up the other two books.


I am about half-way through the Blue Max and enjoying it.

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Max-Cassell-Military-Paperbacks/dp/0304366803/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24V8069P161Y&keywords=the+blue+max&qid=1661541763&rnid=2941120011&s=books&sprefix=%2Caps%2C6538&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Max-Cassell-Military-Paperbacks/dp/0304366803/ref=sr_1_1?crid=24V8069P161Y&keywords=the+blue+max&qid=1661541763&rnid=2941120011&s=books&sprefix=%2Caps%2C6538&sr=1-1)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 25, 2022, 04:38:55 PM
^That sounds very good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 29, 2022, 09:22:24 PM
Just starting Terror of the Autumn Skies, by Blaine Pardoe.

This is a biography of Frank Luke, one of America's top aces in WWI. On his best day, he scored five kills in ten minutes (two balloons, two fighters and one recon aircraft). Eddie Rickenbacker felt that if Luke had lived longer, Luke and not Rickenbacker would have been America's top ace.

Luke's death is almost as famous as his prodigious balloon busting skills. Shot down behind enemy lines, he was wounded and crawled away from his downed aircraft. The traditional story is that he died in a blaze of gunfire, using his M1911 automatic to trade shots with a German infantry patrol. More recent scholarship believes that he did squeeze off a few shots, and the Germans may or may not have returned fire. But Luke really died of his wounds from the crash.   

The book seems to surmise that because Luke's family had deep German roots, Luke was out to prove that he was more American than other Americans. This drove his almost manic pursuit of victories and seeming hatred of the German war machine. I think this premise is credible since this is also the motivation that drove Henry Gunther, an American infantryman of German descent, and the last death before the Armistice, to attack a German machine gun nest, literally in the last minute before the cease-fire (the German machine gunners, knowing that hostilities were about to cease, even tried to wave Gunther off, but the American kept coming for them). 

Anyway, "Autumn Skies" is a "good", but not "great" book IMHO. Informative - it would be a good choice for anyone interested in WWI aviation.

https://www.amazon.com/Terror-Autumn-Skies-Story-Americas/dp/1616082941/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= (https://www.amazon.com/Terror-Autumn-Skies-Story-Americas/dp/1616082941/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=)

Interestingly the author is a prodigious writer, who mostly seems to write "Battletech" novels.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 30, 2022, 06:37:41 AM
^Also sounds very good. I can see a connection between Battletech and WWI aviation!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 30, 2022, 10:03:49 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on August 25, 2022, 01:53:14 PM
A big change between the book and movie is that in the book the protagonist, Bruno Stachel does not die. In fact, he goes on to star in two other books. In the first, "The Blood Order" he follows the Nazis in post-WWI Germany hoping to get to fly again...but gradually grows to despise them. In the third book, "The Tin Cravat," he defects to the US and returns to Germany to start a resistance movement.

That sounds like a great film trilogy idea, too! Maybe Peter Jackson should be working on that.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 30, 2022, 10:43:15 AM
I am trying to decide between, "Island Infernos: The U.S. Army's Pacific War Odyssey, 1944", John Mc Manus's second of three books about the US Army in the Pacific War and, "Brothers In Arms" by James Holland, the story of The Sherwood Rangers in WWII. Tough choice.  :-\
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 30, 2022, 11:24:27 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 30, 2022, 10:03:49 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on August 25, 2022, 01:53:14 PM
A big change between the book and movie is that in the book the protagonist, Bruno Stachel does not die. In fact, he goes on to star in two other books. In the first, "The Blood Order" he follows the Nazis in post-WWI Germany hoping to get to fly again...but gradually grows to despise them. In the third book, "The Tin Cravat," he defects to the US and returns to Germany to start a resistance movement.

That sounds like a great film trilogy idea, too! Maybe Peter Jackson should be working on that.

I would love to see the Blue Max get a remake! Yep, Jackson would be the guy. He practically has his own WWI airforce. :dreamer: 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 30, 2022, 11:57:20 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on August 30, 2022, 10:43:15 AM
I am trying to decide between, "Island Infernos: The U.S. Army's Pacific War Odyssey, 1944", John Mc Manus's second of three books about the US Army in the Pacific War and, "Brothers In Arms" by James Holland, the story of The Sherwood Rangers in WWII. Tough choice.  :-\

Yes, very tough choice. I read "Brothers in Arms" and enjoyed it. I am getting "Island Infernos" for the queue.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 30, 2022, 02:32:26 PM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on August 30, 2022, 11:24:27 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on August 30, 2022, 10:03:49 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on August 25, 2022, 01:53:14 PM
A big change between the book and movie is that in the book the protagonist, Bruno Stachel does not die. In fact, he goes on to star in two other books. In the first, "The Blood Order" he follows the Nazis in post-WWI Germany hoping to get to fly again...but gradually grows to despise them. In the third book, "The Tin Cravat," he defects to the US and returns to Germany to start a resistance movement.

That sounds like a great film trilogy idea, too! Maybe Peter Jackson should be working on that.

I would love to see the Blue Max get a remake! Yep, Jackson would be the guy. He practically has his own WWI airforce. :dreamer:

Pro: a Blue Max trilogy by PJ would exist.
Con: PJ would lose so much weight he would turn into a wraith.
Pro: PJ would lose so much weight he would turn into a wraith.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 08, 2022, 11:41:09 AM
I forgot to mention the other day, but I've started Triumph and Tragedy, the final volume of Churchill's WW2 archive/memoirs; which will also finish out what amounts to the final entry of his history of the English-speaking peoples.

At the same time I also started on Gangsters vs Nazis, and after only the Preface I love it already! If the first page of chapter 1 is any indication, it may be written like a screenplay! Will update my impressions later, God willing and the creek don't rise.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: reydarifyi on September 11, 2022, 04:43:32 AM
A classic one, should be read with certain attention

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51lpJz7lx0L.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 11, 2022, 09:52:05 AM
Oh, great, there's an English translation!  :bd:

Wish that was true for Shaposhnikov's Nerve Center of the Army.  :dreamer:

(Yes, this counts as zeroth-world problems.  :nerd: )
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: greengiant on September 11, 2022, 11:19:20 AM
Dan Simmons Hyperion. As a scifi nut the Hyperion Cantos series is one I've wanted to read for a long time; all the books have been sitting on my shelf for too long and today I decided to make a start. Loving it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 28, 2022, 03:24:48 PM
Just finished

Under the Southern Cross: The South Pacific Air Campaign Against Rabaul by Thomas McKelvey Cleaver

This is a great book covering the air and naval campaigns over the Solomons and Rabual in 1942 and 1943.

As the book opens, the Allies are outnumbered and outclassed in the air. But by the book's end, the tables are completely turned, with the Japanese taking tremendous losses against determined Allied air power. While the book purports to be focused on the air war, it covers naval action as well.

The heroes of the book have to be the F4 Corsair and the B25G Mitchell (the gunship version with the nose full of .50 caliber machine guns, and even a 75mm cannon). The B25Gs in particular used their massive firepower, and innovative skip bombing to shred Japanese transports.

The book does a very good job of presenting detailed accounts of many of the air fights and (mostly American) personalities who were key to the air war. Air combats were huge and intense. Often seeing hundreds of aircraft from both sides in massive air battles.

One blind spot is that while the book tries to present the Japanese perspective, it still falls somewhat short in this aspect (IMHO). 

Still I would say it is required reading for those interested in the Pacific Air War.

https://www.amazon.com/Under-Southern-Cross-Pacific-Campaign/dp/147283822X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1664394831&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Under-Southern-Cross-Pacific-Campaign/dp/147283822X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1664394831&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 30, 2022, 12:40:38 PM
Just finishing The Republic of Pirates: Being the True and Surprising Story of the Caribbean Pirates and the Man Who Brought Them Down by Colin Woodard.

This is a great entertaining book about the brief period in the early 1700s, when pirates literally set up a working republic on New Providence in the Bahamas. The book tells the story through bios of four men, three pirate captains (William "Black Beard" Thatch [also spelled Teach], Henry Avery, and Charles Vane) and Woodes Rodgers the pirate hunter who put an end to the pirate kingdom.

A few tidbits

-Many of the English / Scottish pirates were Jacobites who were somewhat motivated by their distaste for George I, the first Hannovarian King of England. When George I offered pardons, many of the Jacobites refused on political grounds.
-Much of the story takes place in the Carolinas and along the US East Coast.
-The book covers "Black Beard," who seems to have been fairly well educated, and who more often than not depended on his victims fear of him, but he does not come across as bloodthirsty.
-The pirates had a "society" of sorts, and the crews did not usually let captives be killed, but the book does give some exceptions.

Anyway, it is a well-rounded book that takes a steady approach to describing the pirates and their world. A great book if you are interested in pirates.

Here is the link to the book:
https://www.amazon.com/Republic-Pirates-Surprising-Caribbean-Brought/dp/0151013020/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667148623&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Republic-Pirates-Surprising-Caribbean-Brought/dp/0151013020/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667148623&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on November 03, 2022, 03:37:53 PM
Moving from pirates to "road agents" of the Old West...

Half-way through "Vigilantes of Montana" by Thomas Dimsdale

https://www.amazon.com/Vigilantes-Montana-First-Thomas-Dimsdale/dp/0762725680/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667505219&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Vigilantes-Montana-First-Thomas-Dimsdale/dp/0762725680/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667505219&sr=8-2)

I started reading this book on a whim and didn't know what to expect...  I have been pleasantly surprised.

The book was written in 1864, and was a newspaperman's view of crime and punishment in Bannack, Montana in 1862-1864.

The town's sheriff, Henry Plummer, had a side business running a local band of outlaws and "road agents." Eventually, local vigilantes captured, tried and hung Plummer but not before his associates had terrorized the entire area.

The book is full of gun fights, stage-coach robberies, ambushes, and all sorts of other "villainy." The author has a newspaperman's eye for detail in describing these events. For example, one gunfight in a saloon saw both men empty their pistols at close-range and they still missed each other...only a dog hiding under a table was hit (three times). It was during the "cap and ball" era so several gunfights turn because of misfires. One man's heavy clothes even stopped a bullet from a pistol that wasn't loaded with enough powder.   

The book also covers "vigilante justice" and is very sympathetic to it. For the most part, trials were by jury of the "crowd" and the author admits this sometimes led to mixed results. For example, in one "trial" the crowd let murderers go because of their youth and "good looks."  Sentences were often swift...one infamous outlaw was hung within 58 minutes of the end of his trial. He was strung up off a beam in a house under construction in Bannack.

Many of these events seem somehow familiar...and I imagine that this book has been an invaluable source for many Hollywood scriptwriters over the years. 

One of the interesting aspects of the book, is that it describes the events that were very recent when it was written. So the book reads more like today's newspaper, than a "history". It feels like everything the author describes happened yesterday.

BTW, Bannack, Montana is a ghost town and state park now. Here is a Google Street view of its main street. If you want to see what an authentic Old West town looks like, this is it:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.1618058,-112.9976395,3a,75y,128.13h,78.64t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipOVM9hMN8i4RifvQSqVsZ7h02DxrS94G0praaQe!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipOVM9hMN8i4RifvQSqVsZ7h02DxrS94G0praaQe%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya292.78287-ro0-fo100!7i12396!8i6198 (https://www.google.com/maps/@45.1618058,-112.9976395,3a,75y,128.13h,78.64t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipOVM9hMN8i4RifvQSqVsZ7h02DxrS94G0praaQe!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipOVM9hMN8i4RifvQSqVsZ7h02DxrS94G0praaQe%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya292.78287-ro0-fo100!7i12396!8i6198)

Despite the fact that I am having a great time reading the book, I don't think it is for a general audience. I can only recommend it if the subject matter is of interest. The writing is very 19th century, and the turn of phrase takes patience.

Still the book has been great for me since I have been toying with the idea of doing some "Old West Gunfight" gaming...and for me this book really hits the spot.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: al_infierno on November 03, 2022, 03:39:43 PM
^ Looks quite interesting, thanks for posting!  And only a dollar on Kindle.

Wild West is my favorite way to game on tabletop for sure.  I would recommend checking out Six Gun Sound if you're interested in miniatures gaming: https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/327617/six-gun-sound-devils-elbow
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on November 14, 2022, 12:12:26 PM
I have started re-reading "With Their Bare Hands: General Pershing, the 79th Division, and the battle for Montfaucon" by Gene Fax.

https://www.amazon.com/Their-Bare-Hands-Pershing-Montfaucon/dp/1472829794/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1EU73YPZH255A&keywords=with+their+bare+hands&qid=1668445161&sprefix=with+their+%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Their-Bare-Hands-Pershing-Montfaucon/dp/1472829794/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1EU73YPZH255A&keywords=with+their+bare+hands&qid=1668445161&sprefix=with+their+%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-1)

This is a very good book about an almost forgotten battle during the American portion of the Argonne offensive in September, 1918. The very green US 79th Division with conscripts mostly from Baltimore, Philadelphia and D.C., was thrown hard against the German "little Gibraltar" fortress at Montfaucon.

The book is well-written, and it provides plenty of background for the general reader.

Several years back I provided a synopsis of the fight here on grogs:

http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=22976.msg631833#msg631833 (http://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=22976.msg631833#msg631833)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 19, 2022, 11:53:16 AM
Now reading Surrender by Bono.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 07, 2022, 10:11:18 AM
Now reading Game of Thrones and the Medieval Art of War by Ken Mondschein.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 07, 2022, 10:47:50 AM
Ever since I finished reading my compilation of Suvorov's Icebreaker Thesis to Mom (which she found fascinating), I've been reading her Shirer's Rise and Fall of the 3rd Reich plus following along that plot (as closely as possible) with Speer's memoir (skipping a lot of his focus on his architectural interests where those don't really apply to his topic of being Inside the 3rd Reich. ;) ) She's been enjoying that, too! Bro and I get a lot of our history interests from her.  :smitten:

I've also been reading her all of Haggard's Quatermain series novels, novellas, and short stories, in plot-chronology order; I may do a separate post about that later.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 07, 2022, 10:58:09 AM
My grandmother (of all people) loved Rise and Fall of the Third Reich along with Albert Speer's book and I inherited her copies from her some 40-odd years ago. She was very much a 'know your enemy' type.

Anyway, they are now in my older daughter's bookcase in her bedroom and one of the first things people see when they walk in there is the swastika on the spine of one of those books.

Slightly jarring.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 07, 2022, 11:53:38 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 07, 2022, 10:58:09 AM
My grandmother (of all people) loved Rise and Fall of the Third Reich along with Albert Speer's book and I inherited her copies from her some 40-odd years ago. She was very much a 'know your enemy' type.

Same (albeit not for the same genocidal threat reason)! -- though in this case she inherited both books from a cousin who taught history at a high school or college somewhere. That was a ludicrously good haul I unboxed and sorted out several summers ago, although I had to hunt around to fill out some series.

In the timeline, we're at Shirer's chapter on the Nazification years of 33 to 37. Speer tends to bounce around a bit in chronology during this period, too.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 07, 2022, 12:08:34 PM
I'm sure for Speer 33-37 were probably the best years of his life.

Our chat here is quite ironic/timely as coup news is dribbling out of Germany as I type.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on December 15, 2022, 12:39:22 PM
I've gotten enthralled with the writing of CJ Box and his Joe Pickett series of mysteries.  Think I've started the 5th one in the series this week. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on December 16, 2022, 10:37:11 AM
Quote from: Gusington on December 07, 2022, 12:08:34 PM
I'm sure for Speer 33-37 were probably the best years of his life.

Not really! -- by his own account, those years came close to destroying his family life (as he says they definitely destroyed the family lives of many Nazi officials) due to party demands overwhelming every other part of his life.

Of course, he appreciated getting to do his architectural work with license for artistic innovation (within limits) and the challenges of problem-solving. And he appreciated being able to hang out with Hitler, whom he admired at first, and serving as.... not exactly what we'd call a morality anchor in story tropes, but kind of a sanity anchor, being a work-friend that Hitler appreciated being able to hang out with who wasn't constantly sucking up to him and/or trying to conspire against and use him.

This involved being called away at any odd hour of the day or night to travel along with Hitler for who knew how long, criss-crossing around Germany (mostly around Berlin and Munich), sometime on architectural business, but other times just for social purposes (even if Speer was supposed to be working on architectural business). It was interesting, but corrosively exhausting and chaotic.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 16, 2022, 11:05:48 AM
Who needs a regular traditional family when you have Papa Hitler?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 21, 2022, 11:56:45 AM
Now reading 'Vienna 1683: Christian Europe Repels the Ottomans' by Simon Millar (Osprey Campaign Series).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 21, 2022, 11:21:20 PM
Just finished "SPQR" by Mary Beard.

https://www.amazon.com/SPQR-History-Ancient-Mary-Beard/dp/0871404230/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1671682080&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/SPQR-History-Ancient-Mary-Beard/dp/0871404230/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1671682080&sr=8-1)

If you have watched any recent BBC documentaries on Rome, you have probably seen Mary Beard. She is pretty much the resident Rome specialist there.

The book is a very good social, political and cultural history of Rome from the beginning until about 200 AD. My reading on Rome has mostly been military, so SPQR filled in many gaps. 

I enjoyed SPQR and recommend it. It is an enjoyable read.

A few minor warts...or maybe better to say features. SPQR takes a very broad brush when it comes to military matters. Also, the author follows more of a subject based organization, than timeline based. So there is a one chapter discussion of transition from one emperor to another that covers a broad swath of time for example. The result is that sometimes SPQR jumps around time-line wise.

To make up for SPQR's lack of military content, and I found myself re-reading

"In the Name of Rome" by Adrian Goldsworthy

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0297846663/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A1QWS0M2H4O2M0&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0297846663/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A1QWS0M2H4O2M0&psc=1)

I am about a 1/3 of the way through. Just finished the section on Quintus Sertorius (a rebel Roman general) who fought a kind of guerrilla war against Pompei in Spain. Sertorius regularly beat the snot out of Pompei, but lost in the end. Now the book is moving to Pompei himself.

I have discussed this book before. So all I will say is that it is an excellent survey of the military history of Rome through the exploits of 16 of its generals. Highly recommend it.



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: fran on December 22, 2022, 04:19:12 AM
Thanks for heads up on Mary Beard's SPQR. As you come across her on BBC and enjoyed her programs.

Definitely add it to my reading list

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 22, 2022, 07:27:53 AM
SPQR has been on my to read list forever. I have read many of Goldsworthy's books, both fiction and history, and he is a fantastic writer.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on December 22, 2022, 08:44:05 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on December 21, 2022, 11:21:20 PM
Just finished "SPQR" by Mary Beard.

https://www.amazon.com/SPQR-History-Ancient-Mary-Beard/dp/0871404230/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1671682080&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/SPQR-History-Ancient-Mary-Beard/dp/0871404230/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1671682080&sr=8-1)

If you have watched any recent BBC documentaries on Rome, you have probably seen Mary Beard. She is pretty much the resident Rome specialist there.

The book is a very good social, political and cultural history of Rome from the beginning until about 200 AD. My reading on Rome has mostly been military, so SPQR filled in many gaps. 

I enjoyed SPQR and recommend it. It is an enjoyable read.

A few minor warts...or maybe better to say features. SPQR takes a very broad brush when it comes to military matters. Also, the author follows more of a subject based organization, than timeline based. So there is a one chapter discussion of transition from one emperor to another that covers a broad swath of time for example. The result is that sometimes SPQR jumps around time-line wise.

To make up for SPQR's lack of military content, and I found myself re-reading

"In the Name of Rome" by Adrian Goldsworthy

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0297846663/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A1QWS0M2H4O2M0&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0297846663/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A1QWS0M2H4O2M0&psc=1)

I am about a 1/3 of the way through. Just finished the section on Quintus Sertorius (a rebel Roman general) who fought a kind of guerrilla war against Pompei in Spain. Sertorius regularly beat the snot out of Pompei, but lost in the end. Now the book is moving to Pompei himself.

I have discussed this book before. So all I will say is that it is an excellent survey of the military history of Rome through the exploits of 16 of its generals. Highly recommend it.

AZTank: If you are interested in Roman military matters, You may be interested in Luttwak's "The Grand Strategy of the Roman Empire" https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/10324/grand-strategy-roman-empire    It is a good analysis by an expert on strategy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 22, 2022, 11:59:05 AM
Quote from: Tripoli on December 22, 2022, 08:44:05 AM
Quote from: ArizonaTank on December 21, 2022, 11:21:20 PM
Just finished "SPQR" by Mary Beard.

https://www.amazon.com/SPQR-History-Ancient-Mary-Beard/dp/0871404230/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1671682080&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/SPQR-History-Ancient-Mary-Beard/dp/0871404230/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1671682080&sr=8-1)

If you have watched any recent BBC documentaries on Rome, you have probably seen Mary Beard. She is pretty much the resident Rome specialist there.

The book is a very good social, political and cultural history of Rome from the beginning until about 200 AD. My reading on Rome has mostly been military, so SPQR filled in many gaps. 

I enjoyed SPQR and recommend it. It is an enjoyable read.

A few minor warts...or maybe better to say features. SPQR takes a very broad brush when it comes to military matters. Also, the author follows more of a subject based organization, than timeline based. So there is a one chapter discussion of transition from one emperor to another that covers a broad swath of time for example. The result is that sometimes SPQR jumps around time-line wise.

To make up for SPQR's lack of military content, and I found myself re-reading

"In the Name of Rome" by Adrian Goldsworthy

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0297846663/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A1QWS0M2H4O2M0&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0297846663/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A1QWS0M2H4O2M0&psc=1)

I am about a 1/3 of the way through. Just finished the section on Quintus Sertorius (a rebel Roman general) who fought a kind of guerrilla war against Pompei in Spain. Sertorius regularly beat the snot out of Pompei, but lost in the end. Now the book is moving to Pompei himself.

I have discussed this book before. So all I will say is that it is an excellent survey of the military history of Rome through the exploits of 16 of its generals. Highly recommend it.

AZTank: If you are interested in Roman military matters, You may be interested in Luttwak's "The Grand Strategy of the Roman Empire" https://www.press.jhu.edu/books/title/10324/grand-strategy-roman-empire    It is a good analysis by an expert on strategy.

Thanks for the suggestion. Copy on order.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Victor on December 22, 2022, 12:47:43 PM
SPQR is a pretty good launchpad to get into general Roman history but Beard is not big on military stuff. She seems to enjoy the 'daily life' type of history much more and knows more about Roman toilets than I wanted to know!

I'd stay away from Goldsworthy with a 10 foot pole though. I got burned by buying his 'The Complete Roman Army' and have a grudge since. He's the darling of Roman military history because his books are easy to read and everyone recommends him but his stuff barely scratches the surface and presents mostly the static view of the Roman military as it was during the Augustan age that Hollywood puts out.

I don't think you'd gain too much reading Goldsworthy versus reading wikipedia, as nasty as that sounds.

I much prefer Michael J Taylor for Roman military history. He's only got one book, but you can read his many articles on academia.edu.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 22, 2022, 01:05:45 PM
I agree with you on The Complete Roman Army by Goldsworthy...I too got burned and I forgot about that. BUT...that book came out a while ago and he has put out many very good titles since then, especially his fiction set in Britannia.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 22, 2022, 09:14:04 PM
Quote from: Victor on December 22, 2022, 12:47:43 PM
I'd stay away from Goldsworthy with a 10 foot pole though. I got burned by buying his 'The Complete Roman Army' and have a grudge since. He's the darling of Roman military history because his books are easy to read and everyone recommends him but his stuff barely scratches the surface and presents mostly the static view of the Roman military as it was during the Augustan age that Hollywood puts out.

I don't think you'd gain too much reading Goldsworthy versus reading wikipedia, as nasty as that sounds.

I much prefer Michael J Taylor for Roman military history. He's only got one book, but you can read his many articles on academia.edu.

I'll take a look at Taylor.

I have only read "In the Name of Rome" by Goldsworthy and I am enjoying it. It has a good level of detail for me. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Groggy on December 22, 2022, 09:36:47 PM
I would recommend Mike Duncan's book The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34184069-the-storm-before-the-storm (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34184069-the-storm-before-the-storm)

I would also recommend giving a listen to his epic award-winning podcast series The History of Rome. Really good stuff.

https://www.podcastrepublic.net/podcast/261654474 (https://www.podcastrepublic.net/podcast/261654474)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on December 23, 2022, 08:27:46 AM
Quote from: GroggyGrognard2022 on December 22, 2022, 09:36:47 PM
I would recommend Mike Duncan's book The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34184069-the-storm-before-the-storm (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34184069-the-storm-before-the-storm)

I would also recommend giving a listen to his epic award-winning podcast series The History of Rome. Really good stuff.

https://www.podcastrepublic.net/podcast/261654474 (https://www.podcastrepublic.net/podcast/261654474)

Duncan's podcast is really good, summarizing the history of Rome in nice, bit sized chunks.  If you are doing a long car drive, and have an understanding wife, it is a good way to pass the time.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Victor on December 23, 2022, 01:58:36 PM
If you guys have any specific themes or periods you're interested in, I can make some more concrete Roman book recommendations.

Taylor for example is great for administrative stuff but he focuses on the Polybian/Marian periods. His book's thesis is that Rome beat out all other contenders for the top spot because it had the best tradeoff between army cost and effectiveness. His insights into how Rome leveraged their Italian allies to double their army almost for free would make a great book just by itself.

Generally historians divide the Roman army into periods or eras because as you can imagine, it changed a lot over time.

Servian/Kingdom: Heavy Greek influence, basically a hoplite army with few Italian tweaks. This is when Rome was still trying to expand from a single city.

Camillan: When Rome was still unifying Italy. Still some hoplites but now a lot of nuance.

Polybian: The army system that conquered the ancient world, beat Hannibal, Macedonia etc but never gets any credit. Still conscripts, funny enough!

Marian: What we'd start to recognize as a modern, professional army. Classic heavy infantry that Caesar and others would take for a spin.

Augustan: What everyone thinks of when they think Roman army. Sometimes lumped together with Marian, but there are a lot of differences.

Diocletian/Late: The old system reformed, this one looks the most like a military today IMHO. One can almost equate the branches into a proto National Guard/Regular/Special Forces kind of division. Very misunderstood period, lots of stereotypes about barbarians/decline. Nobody roots for the losers!

Eastern Roman/Byzantine: Everything after the West collapsed, this one has a ton of eras too but nobody cares much beyond Justinian/Belisarius usually.

If you have any specific requests, don't be shy, there's books for (almost) everything!

Edit: I should also say A Companion to the Roman Army by Paul Erdkamp does an overview of all of these periods, but it's not a traditional book. More like a series of articles by a lot of different historians each covering their period and focusing on a theme they care about. So in the Late period section for example there's an article about the role that the army played in imperial propaganda, another about literacy amongst the soldiers, etc.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 23, 2022, 02:02:25 PM
I care beyond Justinian/Belisarius!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on December 29, 2022, 08:03:45 AM
I recently picked up an old used copy of Lejeune, the Naval Institute's biography of Lt. Gen. John Lejeune, written by Merrill Bartlett. The interesting part is that I noticed a note in the book signed by the author. It is addressed to "Mrs. Prescott Bush, Jr." and is dated "31 July 2000, Washington, DC".

Mrs. Prescott Bush, Jr. must be Elizabeth Kauffman Bush, who was the wife of Prescott Bush, Jr.  Prescott was the older brother of President George H. W. Bush and the uncle of President George W. Bush. Her father was Vice Admiral James Kauffman and her brother was Rear Admiral Draper Kauffman, who is widely regarded as the ultimate frogman and first Navy Seal.

I love finding real life history like this in my used books.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on December 29, 2022, 12:19:43 PM
 O0  Could be worth some cash?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on December 29, 2022, 12:53:42 PM
Quote from: Sir Slash on December 29, 2022, 12:19:43 PM
O0  Could be worth some cash?

i wouldn't expect there to be much cash value to it, but certainly tremendous value of a historical nature.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on December 31, 2022, 02:34:07 PM
Now reading The Enemy at the Gate: Habsburgs, Ottomans, and the Battle for Europe - https://amzn.to/3GcNR6a
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 08, 2023, 06:08:46 PM
Just finished The General and the Genius by James Kunetka. A good project account of the building of the atomic bombs in WWII. While the book does cover bios and personalities, it does not take too deep of a dive into them. Instead the book covers the technical challenges, design problems, organization, logistics and complexity of the Manhattan project. It was exactly what I was looking for.

https://www.amazon.com/General-Genius-World-War-Collection/dp/1684513596/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2K1Z350KWSJU1&keywords=the+general+and+the+genius&qid=1673218990&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjk3IiwicXNhIjoiMS43OSIsInFzcCI6IjEuODQifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=the+general+and+%2Caps%2C133&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/General-Genius-World-War-Collection/dp/1684513596/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2K1Z350KWSJU1&keywords=the+general+and+the+genius&qid=1673218990&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjk3IiwicXNhIjoiMS43OSIsInFzcCI6IjEuODQifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=the+general+and+%2Caps%2C133&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 14, 2023, 01:46:14 PM
About to begin: Drone Visions - A Brief Cyberpunk History of Killing Machines by Naief Yehya.

https://amzn.to/3CJKT79
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 19, 2023, 09:47:13 PM
I re-started Fire in the Sky by Bergerud.  It's a history of the air war in the South Pacific during WW2.  I also have it's companion Touched by Fire covering the ground war, but only skimmed the beginning.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on January 19, 2023, 11:20:42 PM
I've read those both some years ago. Much to my surprise, I recall liking the ground war book better, but I thought both did a good job with... how should I say it... the pores of the South Pacific campaigns.

I still occasionally reference a description from TBF, where a Japanese jungle soldier compared the difference in fighting the British and the Americans: the British learned to fight in the jungle nightmarishly well. The Americans knocked down the jungle.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 31, 2023, 11:41:47 AM
Just finished the first Gears of War comics omnibus. Surprisingly good. About to start the enormous coffee table Terminator Vault: The Complete Story Behind the Making of The Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgment Day by Ian Nathan.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on February 02, 2023, 02:35:25 PM
I've been reading " Danger Zone: The Coming Conflict with China".  I'm about 75% through.  The book provides a good primer on the case for the possibility of a  war with China in the near-term. It is a good, relatively easy read for anyone interested in the topic.  A good review of the book is here: 
https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/from-the-bookshelf-danger-zone-the-coming-conflict-with-china/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Daily%20The%20Strategist&utm_content=Daily%20The%20Strategist+CID_7c66cbd74e6935f5a3d814941bf7d52a&utm_source=CampaignMonitor&utm_term=From%20the%20bookshelf%20Danger%20zone%20the%20coming%20conflict%20with%20China

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 10, 2023, 09:16:23 AM
Just started A Winter Haunting by Dan Simmons.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on February 10, 2023, 03:26:26 PM
Given up on history for a bit and have been reading CJ Box's Joe Pickett series as fast as I can devour them
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: peter7587 on February 17, 2023, 09:26:24 AM
***
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on February 17, 2023, 09:30:28 AM
 :police:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 17, 2023, 11:55:10 AM
Half-way through "The Making of the Atomic Bomb" by Richard Rhodes

Hefty and very thorough discussion of the Atom Bomb project.

In addition to the US/UK Manhatten Project, the book also has in-depth discussions of German, Japanese and Soviet programs.

The book is primarily a scientific history. It covers all of the early work, starting before WWI, that eventually led to production of the atom bomb.

The book also very thoroughly discusses the many side branches of the subject.

For example, how the Nazis basically expelled most of the top European nuclear physicists. Most of these scientists, from the elite core like Bohr, Szilard, Teller, Bethe and even Einstein, to hundreds of lesser known men and women, landed mostly in the US or UK. The contribution of these refugee scientists was critical to the program.

The book also explores many other side vents, such as Allied operations to slow the German program. For example, the book includes some thrilling tales around Norwegian resistance operations to thwart German heavy water production.

I am enjoying the book a great deal. But the book does go pretty heavily into the science and does stretch my ability to understand at times.

https://www.amazon.com/Making-Atomic-Bomb-Richard-Rhodes-ebook/dp/B008TRU7SQ?ref_=ast_author_dp (https://www.amazon.com/Making-Atomic-Bomb-Richard-Rhodes-ebook/dp/B008TRU7SQ?ref_=ast_author_dp)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 07, 2023, 11:09:43 PM
if you like that try Command and Control by Eric Schlosser
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 18, 2023, 01:24:35 PM
Just finished the 2nd book in The Northern Skies dark fantasy trilogy by Leo Carew, The Spider. Very good. Now about to start Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Jarhead0331 on March 18, 2023, 08:21:50 PM
I'm reading Operation Pineapple Express by this guy...


LTC Scott Mann
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 29, 2023, 11:34:10 AM
Now reading The Eagle of the Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff, the first book in her Roman Britain trilogy.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on March 29, 2023, 12:13:09 PM
Ha, Finished It! -- ended the final chapter of Churchill's superlong historical series yesterday, from prehistoric Britain (when it wasn't even an island yet) to the end of WW2!

Phew. Not sure how long that took, two years-ish? (To be fair I've been reading many other books at the same time.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on March 29, 2023, 09:55:30 PM
About a third of the way through," Meat Grinder: The Battles for the Rzhev Salient 1942-43" by the Expert of the East, Prit Buttar. Loving it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 20, 2023, 06:11:39 PM
I just finished "Essex Dogs" by Dan Jones.

This is a historical novel following the trials and tribulations of a company of English mercenaries who are fighting for the English King Edward III and his son, the "Black Prince," during the Crecy campaign at the start of the 100 Years War.

Jones is mostly known for his solid portfolio of medieval histories, so he brings a historian's eye to the tale; the book is just dripping with atmosphere.

I thought it started out a little slow, but about 1/3 in, I became fully engaged with the characters and happily went along for the ride.

If medieval armies and campaigns are your thing, you really can't go wrong with the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Essex-Dogs-Novel-Dan-Jones/dp/0593653785/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1682031362&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Essex-Dogs-Novel-Dan-Jones/dp/0593653785/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1682031362&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 20, 2023, 08:19:03 PM
^Thanks, I've added it to my cart. Amazon also has a 2nd book listed, confusingly part of...a trilogy?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BWW1F9JR?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tkin_1&storeType=ebooks
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on April 22, 2023, 02:29:56 PM
Now reading Persians by Lloyd Llewellyn Jones.

About done with the first chapter which is extremely revisionist and keeps hammering home how it was the ancient Greeks who were truly barbaric, much more so than the Persians.

I will soldier on with this title anyway hoping to learn more.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on April 22, 2023, 02:52:42 PM
Quote from: Gusington on April 20, 2023, 08:19:03 PM^Thanks, I've added it to my cart. Amazon also has a 2nd book listed, confusingly part of...a trilogy?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BWW1F9JR?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tkin_1&storeType=ebooks

Looks like it is to be trilogy then...:)  Of course he still hasn't published the 2nd book.

I guess I knew more were coming because there are a couple of plot threads in the first book that were never closed.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Destraex on April 22, 2023, 10:21:45 PM
Quote from: BanzaiCat on January 31, 2017, 07:36:28 AMBeen reading something called Omega Rising (https://www.amazon.com/Omega-Rising-Joshua-Dalzelle/dp/1484016327/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485865094&sr=8-1&keywords=omega+rising). It has a compelling premise -

QuoteJason Burke was a man hiding from himself in a small cabin high in the American Rocky Mountains when his simple, quiet life was shattered one night by what he first assumed was an aviation mishap. But when he investigates the crash, what he finds will yank him out of his self-imposed exile and thrust him into a world he could have never imagined. He suddenly finds himself trapped on a damaged alien spacecraft and plunged into a universe of interstellar crime lords and government conspiracies, along the way meeting strange new friends... and enemies. As he struggles to find his way back home he is inexorably drawn deeper into a world where one misstep could mean his death. Or worse. He desperately wants to get back to Earth, but it may be the end for him. ... or is it just the beginning?

It's one of those books that's just good enough to keep my attention, though now that I'm more than halfway through it I feel like I'm obligated to finish it. The author is driving me insane because he has NO idea what a semicolon is, and is separating ideas with commas instead. Plus, mispellings (such as "he wondered down the hall" - ugh) make me feel like I'm reading fanfic and not an actual, real author's work. I hate that feeling.



I recently finished all of Daniel Dalzelle's Warship series and really enjoyed it apart from like you say the spelling and gramatical errors. I definitely agree with you about these books in that respect. However I thought the series was a fabulous read and a lot more technical in it's depiction of space combat than most science fiction series I have read that "focus" on space battles.

I am now looking at reading what I think is the ground based combat part of the series. Which I think would be the Omega Rising books you read way back in 2017! I am though having trouble with the timeline and thus the order I should read these books in.

If you have any idea of the order these books should be read in rather than their publication order it would be appreciated. Without spoilers of course. This authors whole style is built on suspense and climax; which is what makes them hard to put down for me.

P.S. Is this how you would define usage of commas or semi-colons? Because my usage of those writing separation tools is something I need to start using properly.
https://www.imperial.ac.uk/brand-style-guide/writing/grammar/punctuation/commas-colons-and-semi-colons/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 02, 2023, 11:13:04 AM
I finished, "Meat Grinder: The Battles For The Rzhev Salient 1942-43" by Prit Buttar. Another great book by him covering this fight I really knew little about but apparently about a million men died on both sides during the almost constant fighting, many more Russian than German. It reminds me a lot of the present battle for Bakmut in Ukraine today, the relentless Russian attacks to capture this city that really wasn't strategically important to either side. A very even-handed telling of the story from both sides with lots of personal accounts of the fighting and horrible conditions they fought in. Good book.

Next up..."Retribution: The Soviet Reconquest of the Central Ukraine 1943" by...Prit Buttar. The guy writes a lot of books.  :ThumbsUp:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 03, 2023, 09:33:57 AM
Hm, I thought I recalled Rzhev being a key gateway to the Caucasian oilfields?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bobarossa on May 03, 2023, 10:26:02 AM
Quote from: JasonPratt on May 03, 2023, 09:33:57 AMHm, I thought I recalled Rzhev being a key gateway to the Caucasian oilfields?
You may be thinking of Grozny.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 03, 2023, 02:56:46 PM
Rzhev was the closest point the Germans held to Moscow after the 1941 Winter counteroffensive drove the them back form the city. Both sides felt they had to have it so the other side couldn't threaten, or protect, Moscow. Nothing strategically important there for either side.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 04, 2023, 05:08:47 PM
No, I'm thinking of Rostov probably. Though Bob's Grozny is more appropriate. I know I've heard of Rzhev before, but clearly not enough to have an accurate context!

(Unless maybe that's where Vance / Bartheart got around my central wall and kicked my ass in our epic multiplayer match of DC:Barbie.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on May 04, 2023, 10:02:35 PM
I remember that. It truly was epic. Knowing Barth, he probably invented a Wormhole to send his army through past your flank.  :beam_up:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 05, 2023, 12:38:42 PM
Heh, he didn't even need to do that! -- I opened a wormhole for him, trying to counterblitz one of his main supply lines with a ignorantly overpowered stack that got in its own way. He didn't even need three turns to begin the unstoppable catastrophe. Very well played by him, not so much by me (at that moment).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: W8taminute on May 05, 2023, 02:57:22 PM
Highly recommend this.  It's very heavy in the subject matter but thankfully easy to read. 

https://www.amazon.com/Return-Gods-Jonathan-Cahn/dp/1636411428/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+gods+have+returned+cahn&qid=1683316473&sprefix=the+gods+have+re%2Caps%2C273&sr=8-1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 14, 2023, 03:44:33 PM
Now reading Philip and Alexander: Kings and Conquerors by Adrian Goldsworthy.

https://amzn.to/452H8pZ
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on May 14, 2023, 10:00:02 PM
After reading "Essex Dogs" (noted above) a friend of mine suggested I continue medieval historical fiction with books by Christian Cameron.

I started with the "Chivalry" series of four books. I am just finishing the second book and haven't been able to put them down.

Book One: "The Ill-Made Knight" follows the William Gold, an English man of arms during the Poitiers campaign, who gains fame fighting, and eventually after many battles in France and Italy is made a Knight.

Book Two: Sees Sir William as a Knight Hospitaller, on the Alexandrian Crusade.

There are two books left.

The author's hobby is medieval reenacting, and this is telling in his descriptions of armor, weapons and fighting. It is some of the best medieval combat writing I have read.

BTW, Camerson is a prolific author who also writes fantasy novels under the name Miles Cameron.

https://www.amazon.com/Ill-Made-Knight-Christian-Cameron/dp/1409137503/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1684119545&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Ill-Made-Knight-Christian-Cameron/dp/1409137503/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1684119545&sr=8-1)

https://www.amazon.com/Long-Sword-Christian-Cameron/dp/1409137511/ref=pd_bxgy_vft_none_sccl_1/147-3152478-3838443?pd_rd_w=a0tuI&content-id=amzn1.sym.26a5c67f-1a30-486b-bb90-b523ad38d5a0&pf_rd_p=26a5c67f-1a30-486b-bb90-b523ad38d5a0&pf_rd_r=H47VHMQQZ1MSMEG9PWHF&pd_rd_wg=D37JW&pd_rd_r=87bc2f04-ce8e-4e1f-a3fa-6101dd00cbbd&pd_rd_i=1409137511&psc=1 (https://www.amazon.com/Long-Sword-Christian-Cameron/dp/1409137511/ref=pd_bxgy_vft_none_sccl_1/147-3152478-3838443?pd_rd_w=a0tuI&content-id=amzn1.sym.26a5c67f-1a30-486b-bb90-b523ad38d5a0&pf_rd_p=26a5c67f-1a30-486b-bb90-b523ad38d5a0&pf_rd_r=H47VHMQQZ1MSMEG9PWHF&pd_rd_wg=D37JW&pd_rd_r=87bc2f04-ce8e-4e1f-a3fa-6101dd00cbbd&pd_rd_i=1409137511&psc=1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 31, 2023, 09:13:12 AM
Now reading Alexander's Successors at War - The Perdiccas Years - 323-320BC by Tristan Hughes.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on May 31, 2023, 10:00:24 AM
^ Sounds like part of a series?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on May 31, 2023, 01:31:54 PM
A planned series, yes. It's the only one available so far. The author is a writer for the excellent Kings and Generals podcast on The YouTube.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 18, 2023, 10:12:05 PM
Reading "The Glory of Their Times" by Lawrence Ritter.

This book is a series of interviews of old time baseball players from the "Deadball Era" (1900 - 1920). This was the time just before Babe Ruth and WWI.   

The interviews were recorded in the early 1960s when these players were in their 70s and 80s.

The book is a joy! The thing that comes across the most is that all of these guys just 'light up' when they start talking about baseball. Many of the players interviewed are Hall-of-Famers, but even those that aren't just missed it by hair. The game was very different then. Players made hardly any money, and they didn't get paid if they didn't play. So many of them played through damaging injuries like broken bones and concussions. They didn't have coaches, and were pretty much on their own in terms of improving their skills.

These guys rubbed elbows with greatest players of the era, such as; Ty Cobb, "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, Christy Mathewson, Walter Johnson, "Honus" Wagner, "Wee" Willie Keeler, and a promising pitcher from the Red Sox named "Babe" Ruth. The stories of these greats are all there. Including some mostly forgotten. Such as Rube Waddel, one of the best pitchers of his time, but maybe the strangest man to ever play in the big leagues. Or Fred Snodgrass, NY Giants centerfielder who dropped a key flyball, giving the Boston Red Sox the 1912 World Series. "The Snodgrass Muff" was never forgotten by fans; when Snodgrass died in 1974, at the age of 84, the "Snodgrass Muff" was in the headline of his obituary.

Anyway, thoroughly enjoying this book.

If you get one of the audio versions, you will hear the actual players voices as they tell their stories.

https://www.amazon.com/Glory-Their-Times-Baseball-Perennial/dp/0061994715/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2NX3FBVN3YKEM&keywords=the+glory+of+their+times&qid=1687141827&sprefix=the+glory+of+their+times%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Glory-Their-Times-Baseball-Perennial/dp/0061994715/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2NX3FBVN3YKEM&keywords=the+glory+of+their+times&qid=1687141827&sprefix=the+glory+of+their+times%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1)

and if you don't believe me about Rube Waddel, being the strangest player in the Big Leagues, check this out:

https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/the-curiosities-of-rube-waddell/#:~:text=Known%20to%20occasionally%20miss%20a%20scheduled%20start%20because,or%20wrestling%20an%20alligator%20in%20a%20nearby%20lagoon. (https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/the-curiosities-of-rube-waddell/#:~:text=Known%20to%20occasionally%20miss%20a%20scheduled%20start%20because,or%20wrestling%20an%20alligator%20in%20a%20nearby%20lagoon.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: bobarossa on June 19, 2023, 09:48:47 AM
Who here has not run off after a shiny new wargame instead of working?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on June 21, 2023, 03:41:16 PM
Currently reading Armies of the Hellenistic States 323BC-30AD by Gabrielle Esposito.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on June 28, 2023, 10:07:22 AM
Just finished "The Last Zero Fighter: Firsthand Accounts from WWII Japanese Naval Pilots", by Dan King.

If you have any interest in Pacific Air War or Japanese Naval Aviation, this book is a "must read" IMHO.

The book is a rarity in English language histories since it vividly brings to life the tales of Japanese WWII naval aviators. It details the personal stories of these men, as they related their tales to the author when they were in their 80s and 90s. The author also uses contemporary Allied and Japanese records to fill in the gaps of their narratives. 

The men interviewed represent a very broad swath of Japanese naval experience during the era. From combat over the skies of China, to Pearl Harbor, the Panay Incident, the Doolittle Raid, Midway and eventually the end of war, with many of them flying "escort" for Kamikaze aircraft. 

The author is a unique American historian who is also a fluent Japanese speaker / reader, who interviewed the former aviators without translator.

https://www.amazon.com/Last-Zero-Fighter-Firsthand-Accounts/dp/1468178806/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1687962919&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Last-Zero-Fighter-Firsthand-Accounts/dp/1468178806/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1687962919&sr=8-1)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on June 29, 2023, 12:09:59 AM
a list

https://warontherocks.com/2023/06/the-2023-war-on-the-rocks-summer-fiction-reading-list/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on July 08, 2023, 08:45:05 AM
I just finished a fiction book that was pretty spectacular:  Invisible Monsters by Chuck Palahniuk.  Same guy that wrote Fight Club.  This guy's writing style just clicks with me; it's brilliant.  And the story was a shocker.

Highly recommended.  It's not a long book - a good beach read.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 15, 2023, 01:11:34 PM
Just finished 'Empires of the Normans: Conquerors of Europe' by Levi Roach - not so well written. Author does a lot of telling instead of showing  :-[

https://shorturl.at/hjoqy

And just began 'Streams of Gold, Rivers of Blood - The Rise and Fall of Byzantium, 955AD to the First Crusade' by Anthony Kaldellis - so far very dense, stiff and academic, not a lot of breezy fun summer reading so far this year  :-[ :-[

https://shorturl.at/fyCGS
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 30, 2023, 04:07:21 PM
Now reading Saladin by John Man:
https://tinyurl.com/3a34rf4u
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on July 30, 2023, 05:11:36 PM
I'm still digging through Hustlers and MAD magazines from the 80's and largely not comprehending them.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on July 30, 2023, 07:15:40 PM
I think my first dirty magazine was High Society circa 1987  :tophat:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 01, 2023, 09:49:53 AM
"To The Ends of the Earth: The U.S. Army and The Downfall of Japan 1945". The third and final book by John C. Mc Manus covering the Army's role in the Pacific War. All three are excellent and I highly recommend them if you are at all interested.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on August 02, 2023, 04:18:48 PM
Quote from: SirAndrewD on July 30, 2023, 05:11:36 PMI'm still digging through Hustlers and MAD magazines from the 80's and largely not comprehending them.

How can you not understand MAD Magazine?

Some of the jokes were so good I might have laughed so hard I peed a little.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 02, 2023, 07:11:19 PM
.
(https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/1edf1588-08ac-4dc7-8557-a3da47df2b41/degkzqh-bc537b1c-1a17-4bdf-acc7-fb3d4aa70428.jpg/v1/fill/w_1280,h_1003,q_75,strp/spy_vs__spy_drawing_by_dawnaie_degkzqh-fullview.jpg?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOjdlMGQxODg5ODIyNjQzNzNhNWYwZDQxNWVhMGQyNmUwIiwiaXNzIjoidXJuOmFwcDo3ZTBkMTg4OTgyMjY0MzczYTVmMGQ0MTVlYTBkMjZlMCIsIm9iaiI6W1t7ImhlaWdodCI6Ijw9MTAwMyIsInBhdGgiOiJcL2ZcLzFlZGYxNTg4LTA4YWMtNGRjNy04NTU3LWEzZGE0N2RmMmI0MVwvZGVna3pxaC1iYzUzN2IxYy0xYTE3LTRiZGYtYWNjNy1mYjNkNGFhNzA0MjguanBnIiwid2lkdGgiOiI8PTEyODAifV1dLCJhdWQiOlsidXJuOnNlcnZpY2U6aW1hZ2Uub3BlcmF0aW9ucyJdfQ.Q5w2-0Cki7mSNTtktqzIGq6FuPX56JFl1foRhntRIfU)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 11, 2023, 03:47:27 PM
Now reading Alien: The Blueprints by Graham J. Langridge, a giant, oversized coffee table book modeling all the structures, ships and vehicles from the Alien movie franchise.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on August 11, 2023, 03:52:59 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/gDBJVw8/fgc.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 11, 2023, 04:20:52 PM
whoops
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 11, 2023, 04:21:12 PM
The above was a quick read   :Nerd:

Now on to Alien 3: The Unproduced Screenplay by William Gibson:

https://shorturl.at/sNQ03
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sigwolf on August 11, 2023, 06:17:43 PM
I'm pretty sure Lane Myer's little brother from Better Off Dead would order the book Andrew posted.

As for the Alien 3 screenplay... please post your impressions when you finish.  I still remember the disappointment I felt watching the movie in the theater when it released.  I would love something to make that memory go away.  Then again, if it's really good, maybe it will make it worse.  :HideEyes:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 11, 2023, 08:03:28 PM
^I will. I am probably the only person who will openly admit that I enjoyed Alien 3. What a universally hated movie. I enjoyed it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on August 11, 2023, 09:48:21 PM
In space, no one can hear you scream, "It Sucks"!  :sad: No really, it wasn't that bad.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: endfire79 on August 11, 2023, 10:39:07 PM
Alien 3 has its bright spots. @AlienTheory on YouTube does really great segments about the whole Alien film series/comics and lore and has a nice one on Alien 3 and its different cuts & Gibson story etc. I could listen to this guy talk all night on the subject.

https://www.youtube.com/@AlienTheory (https://www.youtube.com/@AlienTheory)

These days I'm still getting through ASOIAF A Dance with Dragons. Not letting GOT Season 8 spoil my taste for this series. 

On the Grog side, I still have to finish up 'Furies: War in Europe 1450-1700'

Furies: War in Europe 1450-1700 (https://www.amazon.com/Furies-Europe-1450-1700-Lauro-Martines/dp/1608196186/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=)


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 12, 2023, 12:03:15 PM
^Nice, thanks for those suggestions.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 13, 2023, 03:05:21 PM
I'm not finished with the Alien 3 novel, but 100 pages in. It is awesome. Very different than the movie that was made. Gibson's political preferences drip from it but if you don't mind it, it is a very good book.

I may feel different when I get to the end but I doubt it.

It feels like a proper Alien story, the tech descriptions are awesome, the mood is perfect, the characters likable and it is a breezy read where I can devour 50 pages at a time, which is very fast for me.

If other Alien novels are even half this good I will be getting many more...hopefully this isn't extraordinarily good because it is Gibson.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 20, 2023, 12:13:43 PM
Just finishing "Conquistadores A New History of Spanish Discovery and Conquest" by Fernando Cervantes

I give a guarded recommendation for this one.

The strengths of the book is that it covers some of the key conquistadors such as Cortez, Pizzaro and even Columbus in great detail. Most historical narratives you see elsewhere have the Incas, Aztecs and other Native Americans being bowled over the minute the Spanish show up. The book demonstrates that in fact, the Spanish only "won" through jaw-dropping audacity and sheer dumb luck in many cases. While the Spanish enjoyed a technological superiority in terms of steel, gunpowder and horses, the natives, particularly the Inca, learned how to beat them on many battlefields, but it was not enough.

Like the Romans in barbarian lands, the Spanish also won because they managed to exploit the cracks in the native governments. The Spanish would look for allies; in many fights for every Spanish soldier the Spanish had 3 or 4 native allies.

The weakness of the book is that sometimes it goes into deep dives into the religious, governmental and philosophical aspects of the era. The book sometimes becomes very academic and long-winded in these sections and I had trouble pushing through them.

Another weakness of the book is that it focuses on just a few key conquistadors and mostly ignores the rest.

Anyway, if the era is of interest to you...sure give this book a try.

https://www.amazon.com/Conquistadores-Untold-History-Spanish-Discovery/dp/1101981261/ref=sr_1_1?crid=7ZLLDG4BV4G1&keywords=Conquistadores+A+New+History+of+Spanish+Discovery+and+Conquest&qid=1692550255&sprefix=conquistadores+a+new+history+of+spanish+discovery+and+conquest%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Conquistadores-Untold-History-Spanish-Discovery/dp/1101981261/ref=sr_1_1?crid=7ZLLDG4BV4G1&keywords=Conquistadores+A+New+History+of+Spanish+Discovery+and+Conquest&qid=1692550255&sprefix=conquistadores+a+new+history+of+spanish+discovery+and+conquest%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-1)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 20, 2023, 03:34:50 PM
^I have that book in my shopping cart right now. And on my night stand I have, ready to read, 'Dogs of God - Columbus, the Inquisition and the Defeat of the Moors' by James Reston Jr.

https://tinyurl.com/2be58ner

But first I will be reading 'The Ruin of All Witches - Life and Death in the New World' by Malcolm Gaskill.

https://tinyurl.com/mr2aes7e

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on August 20, 2023, 05:34:34 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/XZhF4NB/42sqec912wt81.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 20, 2023, 07:54:51 PM
 :buck2:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on August 20, 2023, 08:05:21 PM
Among several other things, I'm taking a break from non-fiction to start a series I've never read before and always wanted to: Weis and Hickman's Death Gate Cycle!

Just finished the first chapters introducing Hugh the Hand's side of the plot. I recommend skipping the spoilery 'hook' prologue, and letting those details be a surprise later. (From the publishing side of things I realize why the hook prologue is there, but still I recommend against it.)

I have a general recollection of the overall plot thanks to a point-n-click adventure game covering the whole series (relatively briefly) made by Legendary Entertainment (iirc). I think they also did some similar Star Trek games (at least one TNG I played through more than once), and then went out of business or got bought up after turning an ersatz prequel to The Wheel of Time into an Unreal-engine FPS. (Albeit a very good one for the time.) The latter is still available on GoG, I think. {checking}

Yep, WoT is. Death Gate, no. Legend Entertainment, not Legendary, made the both; they also made Star Control II among other things! Currently Death Gate isn't available anywhere legitimate (as a video game). Good grief, 1994, it ran on DOS?? THE AGE, IT BURRRRNNNNSSS!  :HideEyes:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DetCord on August 21, 2023, 11:11:58 PM
Three at present. Just finished Myths and Legends of the Eastern Front (again) by Sokolov.

Presently reading:

• Between Giants by Buttar.

• Rereading Battleground Prussia by Buttar.

• The Waffen SS: Hitlers Army at War by Gilbert.



Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on August 27, 2023, 07:18:29 PM
Quote from: SirAndrewD on August 20, 2023, 05:34:34 PM(https://i.ibb.co/XZhF4NB/42sqec912wt81.jpg)

This is hands down the best book title in the world.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on August 27, 2023, 08:16:35 PM
And a pretty good 'nome de plume.'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 28, 2023, 08:47:35 AM
Just finishing David Hackett Fischer's excellent "Washington's Crossing," about the New Jersey Campaign of Winter 76/77.

The book covers the crossing of the Delaware River, the First Battle of Trenton, the Second Battle of Trenton (almost a week later) and Washington's audacious attack on Cornwallis' rear at Princeton. The narrative of the battles is lively and spell-binding.

But the strength of the book is that it fills in the blanks between battles. Even covering one of the New Jersey Militia's high points, the "Forage War" a partisan hit and run campaign that kept the British from getting too comfortable in their winter quarters.

(As a side-note, I recently saw one of those click-baity on-line T-shirts for sale that say: "Americans - We Will Cross a Frozen River to Kill You in Your Sleep - ON CHRISTMAS. Not Kidding. We've Done it Before." I briefly considered buying one...).

I read "Washington's Crossing" many years ago, and after so long am actually enjoying more on the second read.

I really can't find faults with the narrative or content and recommend it, even for someone with only passing interest in the subject.

https://www.amazon.com/Washingtons-Crossing-Pivotal-Moments-American/dp/0195170342/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1693230278&sr=1-3 (https://www.amazon.com/Washingtons-Crossing-Pivotal-Moments-American/dp/0195170342/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1693230278&sr=1-3)

 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on August 31, 2023, 08:22:39 AM
Just starting two books.

First, Martin Caidin / Saburo Sakai's WWII memoir: "Samurai"

https://www.amazon.com/Samurai-Saburo-Sakai/dp/1696175992/ref=sr_1_1?crid=UIAMW3F0WYFM&keywords=samurai+sakai&qid=1693487085&sprefix=samurai+sakai%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Samurai-Saburo-Sakai/dp/1696175992/ref=sr_1_1?crid=UIAMW3F0WYFM&keywords=samurai+sakai&qid=1693487085&sprefix=samurai+sakai%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1)

Sakai was Japan's top fighter ace in WWII (a naval aviator flying mostly Zeros) and survived literally to tell the tale. I am about 20% in to the book and enjoying it.

The other book is just fun:

"A Fan's Guide to Baseball Analytics" by Anthony Castrovince

https://www.amazon.com/Fans-Guide-Baseball-Analytics-Understanding/dp/1683583442/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2FFZOU9QTM0G5&keywords=a+fan%27s+guide+to+baseball+analytics+by+anthony+castrovince&qid=1693487495&sprefix=fans+guide%2Caps%2C212&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Fans-Guide-Baseball-Analytics-Understanding/dp/1683583442/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2FFZOU9QTM0G5&keywords=a+fan%27s+guide+to+baseball+analytics+by+anthony+castrovince&qid=1693487495&sprefix=fans+guide%2Caps%2C212&sr=8-1)

I am about 40% in and enjoying it. The author breaks down what the stats really mean, and why some of the old standards like "batting average" and RBI (Runs Batted In) really don't always show what we think they show.

He then goes on to explain newer stats such as OBP (On Base Percentage) and WAR (Wins Above Replacement). Anyway, his writing style is easy going and not academic at all.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 13, 2023, 02:04:38 PM
So I finished, "To The End Of The Earth: The U.S. Army and The Downfall of Japan 1945" the 3rd book in John C. McManus' excellent trilogy of the U.S. Army's story in the Pacific War. Fantastic books all.  :ThumbsUp:  Next up is, "Kabul: The Untold Story of the Afghanistan Withdrawal" by Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 13, 2023, 03:08:15 PM
Just started The Ruins by Scott Smith.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 13, 2023, 04:34:06 PM
Reading "Albion's Seed" by David Hackett Fischer.

A bit of a different kind of book for me.

"Albion's Seed" is an in-depth analysis of four major cultural waves from England to the American Colonies in the period before the Revolutionary War. The book covers all aspects of life: love, marriage, language, religion, child-rearing, language, cooking, leisure activities, etc.

I am 50% in, and the book has talked in depth about the Puritans who settled in New England, and who mostly came from the East of England (around the city of Norwich). This sub-culture contrasts starkly with the "cavaliers" who established Virginia. These were the unlanded 'second sons' of gentry from the Southwest of England.

Up next will be the Quakers from the English Midlands who settled in Delaware and Pennsylvania. Then the book will cover the Scots-Irish and those from the English Borderlands.

Anyway, its a great book if you have any interest in the subject. But for the average reader, this would probably be a "pass."

https://www.amazon.com/Albions-Seed-British-Folkways-cultural/dp/0195069056/ref=pd_bxgy_sccl_2/146-5892264-5829321?pd_rd_w=r5Jwb&content-id=amzn1.sym.26a5c67f-1a30-486b-bb90-b523ad38d5a0&pf_rd_p=26a5c67f-1a30-486b-bb90-b523ad38d5a0&pf_rd_r=V5V1XNRV9A7PG7N85Y32&pd_rd_wg=ZYmro&pd_rd_r=1cbc602f-664a-4180-9f9f-67b672fb5a56&pd_rd_i=0195069056&psc=1
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: DetCord on September 15, 2023, 11:04:21 PM
Halbe '45 and Soldiers to the Last Day.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 16, 2023, 10:21:17 AM
(https://trekmovie.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/bk-designingfinalfrontier-head2.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 16, 2023, 09:11:25 PM
^ Intriguing.

I have a good friend who is obsessed with all things American Midcentury, esp. cars, NASA, retail space design, 'golden age' Sci-fi, innovative classic TV (such as Night Stalker, Hawaii 50 and Twilight Zone/Night Gallery) and Cold War cultural tropes. He's also a big fan of Lost in Space and UFO so I'm always surprised that ST:TOS isn't a bigger blip on his radar.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on September 16, 2023, 09:23:54 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/qnvQR0c/61-L98tc-Ca-YL-AC-UF1000-1000-QL80.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 16, 2023, 09:47:40 PM
 :outtahere:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Staggerwing on September 16, 2023, 09:52:29 PM
^^ Study materials:

(https://i.redd.it/px8s1lqvioe01.png)

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on September 16, 2023, 10:15:59 PM
Quote from: Toonces on August 27, 2023, 07:18:29 PMThis is hands down the best book title in the world.

Are you sure?

(https://i.ibb.co/ZxWvLWH/tingler.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 16, 2023, 11:07:56 PM
^Also by Chuck Tingle? Prolific.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on September 16, 2023, 11:16:41 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 16, 2023, 11:07:56 PM^Also by Chuck Tingle? Prolific.

I have met several "Chuck Tingle's".

I also worked to break the algorithm that "he" used to get on the USA Today list.  Used it to get some of our authors on.

Publishing is a racket, I know, I'm in the industry and I'm a "Bestselling award winning" author myself.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 17, 2023, 10:19:07 AM
My first few jobs out of college were in publishing. One included being the ghost writer for Fabio and answering his fan mail, circa 1996. The old timers here may recall.

I had other even more degrading publishing jobs.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Pete Dero on September 17, 2023, 11:33:08 AM
Quote from: Gusington on September 17, 2023, 10:19:07 AMOne included being the ghost writer for Fabio and answering his fan mail, circa 1996.

I feel sorry for you.  I hope everything turned out well after all  :grin: .
I'm guessing it wasn't just female fan mail  :evil: .
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Uberhaus on September 17, 2023, 12:09:32 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 17, 2023, 10:19:07 AMMy first few jobs out of college were in publishing. One included being the ghost writer for Fabio and answering his fan mail, circa 1996. The old timers here may recall.

I had other even more degrading publishing jobs.

Don't feel too sorry for yourself.  I, for one, would have happily degraded myself with Fabio's castoffs.  :lipsrsealed:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 17, 2023, 08:15:38 PM
Everything turned out just fine  :ThumbsUp:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on September 17, 2023, 09:40:50 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 17, 2023, 10:19:07 AMMy first few jobs out of college were in publishing. One included being the ghost writer for Fabio and answering his fan mail, circa 1996. The old timers here may recall.

I had other even more degrading publishing jobs.

Ghostwriters nowadays are pretty well respected and some of our best paying jobs.

I love kicking their asses in our monthly Team Lounge Trivia Nights though. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 17, 2023, 10:01:17 PM
Damn Gus. I thought that was Fabio that sent me hotel room key.  :doh:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 18, 2023, 08:54:46 AM
^Sorry to disappoint but that may actually have been Fabio.

A big chunk of my professional time now is spent ghostwriting for the executives where I work who do not have the time or the inclination to write on their own  :tophat:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 18, 2023, 10:55:27 AM
Now I know who to get to write all those AAR's I've been meaning to write. You work cheap?  :grin:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 18, 2023, 11:01:40 AM
No  :Nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 18, 2023, 12:56:30 PM
Quote from: SirAndrewD on September 17, 2023, 09:40:50 PM
Quote from: Gusington on September 17, 2023, 10:19:07 AMMy first few jobs out of college were in publishing. One included being the ghost writer for Fabio and answering his fan mail, circa 1996. The old timers here may recall.

I had other even more degrading publishing jobs.

Ghostwriters nowadays are pretty well respected and some of our best paying jobs.

I love kicking their asses in our monthly Team Lounge Trivia Nights though. 

Oh.... you are on buddy.... we need to get some sort of virtual trivia night thing going for wargamers. Damn that should be possible.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 18, 2023, 01:11:32 PM
Steam chat and Tabletop Simulator for that! (Or Discord?)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 18, 2023, 01:14:21 PM
Breezy is on to something  :ThumbsUp:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on September 18, 2023, 04:20:09 PM
so I could have gotten Gus to write the Panthers in the Fog review?  :ThumbsUp:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 18, 2023, 04:24:45 PM
No one said you didn't and I'm just holding on to it...for posterity.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 23, 2023, 10:03:01 PM
Do not read The Ruins by Scott Smith. Not badly written but great googly moogly is there not one likeable character in the whole 500 pages. I just wanna watch the book burn in the fireplace.

And barely any ruins to speak of at all.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on September 24, 2023, 08:10:56 AM
Just starting "Battle Cry of Freedom" by James McPherson

Classic single volume history of the Civil War, that I have carried around for the last 30 years, but somehow never picked up to read.

I am only about 20% in, but so far it is the best explanation of the cause of the Civil War that I have read.

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Cry-Freedom-Civil-War/dp/019516895X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1695560511&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Cry-Freedom-Civil-War/dp/019516895X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1695560511&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 25, 2023, 12:30:17 PM
Quote from: GDS_Starfury on September 18, 2023, 04:20:09 PMso I could have gotten Gus to write the Panthers in the Fog review?  :ThumbsUp:

Dude, up your game! ChatGPT could do that for you with five minutes of effort.

THIS took me 2 minutes.

"Panthers in the Fog" is a highly regarded war strategy game, and here are 10 favorable points highlighting its strengths:

Immersive Historical Accuracy: "Panthers in the Fog" excels in its commitment to historical accuracy, recreating the Battle of the Bulge with meticulous attention to detail, from unit types to terrain and weather conditions.

Challenging Gameplay: The game offers a challenging and rewarding experience, with complex decision-making and strategic planning required to succeed in the various scenarios.

Realistic Graphics: The game boasts impressive graphics that bring the battlefield to life, allowing players to appreciate the scale and intensity of World War II combat.

Deep Strategic Depth: "Panthers in the Fog" offers a deep and engaging strategic experience, making players feel like real commanders as they make critical decisions to outmaneuver their opponents.

Historical Campaigns: Players can engage in a series of historical campaigns, each with its unique challenges, objectives, and historical context, providing a rich and educational experience.

Varied Units: The game features a wide range of units, each with its strengths and weaknesses, encouraging players to experiment with different strategies and tactics.

Dynamic Weather System: The dynamic weather system adds an extra layer of complexity to battles, forcing players to adapt their strategies based on changing conditions, just like in real warfare.

Multiplayer Options: "Panthers in the Fog" offers multiplayer modes, allowing players to test their skills and strategies against others, adding significant replay value.

User-Friendly Interface: The game's intuitive user interface makes it accessible to both newcomers to the genre and experienced wargamers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience.

Active Community and Support: With a dedicated and passionate player community and ongoing developer support, "Panthers in the Fog" remains a living and evolving game, with regular updates and improvements.

In summary, "Panthers in the Fog" is a fantastic war strategy game that excels in historical accuracy, offers deep and challenging gameplay, and provides an immersive experience that keeps players engaged for hours on end. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a strategy game fan, this title is a must-play
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 25, 2023, 12:32:15 PM
here's a favorable review of "Panthers in the Fog" with a nod to Jewish players:

Respectful Historical Representation: "Panthers in the Fog" is commendable for its respectful and accurate portrayal of historical events, including those significant to Jewish history during World War II, making it an inclusive and educational experience.

Inclusive Storytelling: The game acknowledges the contributions and challenges faced by Jewish soldiers and civilians during the Battle of the Bulge, ensuring that the experiences of Jewish players are represented thoughtfully.

Engaging Gameplay: With its deep and challenging gameplay, "Panthers in the Fog" invites Jewish players to immerse themselves in a strategic world that reflects the complexity of the historical period.

Authentic Visuals: The game's realistic graphics and attention to detail bring the historical setting to life, allowing Jewish players to appreciate the era's significance and immerse themselves in the experience.

Diverse Unit Selection: "Panthers in the Fog" offers a diverse selection of units, including those representing various nationalities and backgrounds, making it inclusive and appealing to players of all backgrounds.

Educational Campaigns: The historical campaigns featured in the game provide Jewish players with an opportunity to learn more about the events of World War II, including the struggles and triumphs of Jewish communities during that time.

Weather Realism: The dynamic weather system adds another layer of realism to the game, allowing Jewish players to experience the challenges faced by soldiers in the harsh winter conditions of the Battle of the Bulge.

Multiplayer Inclusivity: With its multiplayer modes, "Panthers in the Fog" offers Jewish players the chance to engage with a diverse gaming community, fostering connections and friendly competition.

Accessible Interface: The game's user-friendly interface ensures that both newcomers and experienced players from all backgrounds can enjoy the game without barriers.

Supportive Community: The "Panthers in the Fog" community welcomes players of all backgrounds, and with ongoing developer support, it continues to evolve into a more inclusive and engaging gaming experience.

In summary, "Panthers in the Fog" not only provides an excellent historical strategy gaming experience but also acknowledges and respects the historical context and contributions of Jewish players and communities during World War II. It's a testament to the inclusive nature of the gaming world, offering an enjoyable and educational experience for players of all backgrounds
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 25, 2023, 12:33:56 PM
One more time, but like a Dr. Suess book


In the world of gaming, there's a title you'll adore,
It's "Panthers in the Fog," let's explore it some more.
With a nod to Jewish players, it's inclusive and grand,
A game that welcomes all, in this wondrous land.

In this game, history's pages unfurl,
With respect for Jewish players, it's a gem of a world.
With battles and strategy, it'll make you feel wise,
As you strategize and plan under virtual skies.

The graphics are splendid, so lively and bright,
They transport you back to that World War II fight.
And for Jewish players, it's more than just fun,
It tells stories of courage, battles fought, and deeds done.

A diverse unit selection, representing with grace,
Various backgrounds and nations, in this strategic space.
Jewish players will find it a welcoming sight,
With inclusivity that feels just right.

Campaigns that are historical, oh, what a treat,
They're informative and engaging, oh so neat!
Learn about the past, and the challenges faced,
In a game that respects history, it's all well-placed.

The weather's dynamic, it changes the game,
Just like the real battles, it's never the same.
Jewish players will see the elements roar,
As they navigate winter in the Battle of the Bulge war.

Multiplayer options, for connections so sweet,
With gamers of all backgrounds, it's a delightful feat.
Jewish players, unite with friends near and far,
In a community that's welcoming, like a shining star.

The interface is friendly, so easy to grasp,
For players of all kinds, it's a comfortable clasp.
And with ongoing support and a warm-hearted crew,
"Panthers in the Fog" is a game that rings true.

So, to all the players, wherever you may be,
"Panthers in the Fog" is a game you should see.
Inclusive and respectful, it's a joy to behold,
A game that's a story, a history, a world to unfold
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 25, 2023, 01:27:21 PM
That direly needs publishing on the Front Page, and maybe sending to Matrix and the CC devs!  :notworthy:  :notworthy:  :notworthy:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 25, 2023, 01:57:18 PM
I could have wrote all three of the above in a total of 9 minutes, I am a better friend than ChatGPT and I can spell Dr. Seuss.

I beat AI!!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 25, 2023, 02:40:37 PM
But do you LOOK better than ChatGTP?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 25, 2023, 02:43:50 PM
Naked or clothed?
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on September 25, 2023, 02:59:46 PM
Gus is awesome when you are 3 beer and 2 Jamaican rums into it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 25, 2023, 03:14:27 PM
And for some, no alcohol is necessary.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: JasonPratt on September 26, 2023, 11:28:33 AM
We all look like a Matrix code waterfall anyway, except for those of us egotistical enough to use our actual photo on every....

...

.....um, humble enough! -- humble enough to use our actual photo on every post.

 :3musketeer:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on September 29, 2023, 08:22:08 AM
Dating myself a bit, but back in the day, there were 8.5" x 11" sized comics put out - usually black and white, but sometimes in color.  Such things as Epic Illustrated, Savage Sword of Conan, and so on graced the shelves and were much loved as the treats they were when the folks graced me with some cash to buy them with.  I've managed to keep most of them to this day, much to my surprise.

At any rate, there were "horror," titles that fell into this category and right now on Humble Bundle, there is a very, very reasonably priced collection of Eerie magazine archives available that I'm getting ready to put on the Kindle.  Can't wait to see if a similarly priced Creepy bundle comes out in the future.

p.s. Warren Publishing is the company responsible for both Creepy and Eerie and a few other gems, so keep a lookout for 'em!
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on September 29, 2023, 09:11:45 AM
^'You and me, we're the same.'  :justice:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on September 29, 2023, 10:21:01 AM
I read both of those religiously Carl. I had a whole bunch until they disintegrated finally up in my attic years ago.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: FarAway Sooner on October 04, 2023, 12:35:50 PM
So, I'll put a plug in for a really provocative WWII title recommended to me by a fellow Grog here a few months ago.

How the War was Won (https://www.amazon.com/dp/110871689X?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_product_details), by Phillips Payson O'Brien, is a thoroughly researched and fascinating look at how each side's military production evolved over time.  There is a strong emphasis on the division of manpower and resources between aircraft production, naval production, and land-combat production for each of the major combatants in WW2.

The book eschews typical treatments of individual battlefields, except to compare some of the most famous battles to monthly production figures (typically to highlight how the "battlefield narrative" of WW2 largely misses out on the realities of equipment production and equipment loss.  He also spends a lot of time examining the explicit policy decisions made by each nation's leaders, both in terms of industrial production and in terms of how air and naval power were used to attack the enemy's means of production.

He also conducts a much deeper examination of non-combat losses throughout the war, especially for air planes.  While I didn't agree with every single point he advanced, I learned A LOT from the book and would recommend it to anybody who can't answer questions like, "How did German and Japanese non-combat operational aircraft losses differ from 1942 to 1944?" or "How much money did Germany spend on equipment fighting Russia in 1943 versus the other Allies?"

The author is English and seems to exhibit some of the Anglocentric biases one finds in other English WW2 historians.  That said, he's not shy about calling out English failures (particularly in the strategic air war), and the sheer volume of data he raises on all the major combatants is impressive.

It's definitely worth a read.  Given how often he cites detailed production charts, I'd definitely recommend the paperback version over any e-Book version (unless you plan to read it on a big-ass PC screen or have fantastic eye sight).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 10, 2023, 07:57:42 AM
Quote from: FarAway Sooner on October 04, 2023, 12:35:50 PMSo, I'll put a plug in for a really provocative WWII title recommended to me by a fellow Grog here a few months ago.

Looks like just my sort of thing... Thanks for the recommendation, it's now on my list.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on October 18, 2023, 05:28:07 PM
Quote from: Dammit Carl! on September 29, 2023, 08:22:08 AMCan't wait to see if a similarly priced Creepy bundle comes out in the future.

The Gods were listening!

https://www.humblebundle.com/books/creepy-comics-collection-dark-horse-books?hmb_source=&hmb_medium=product_tile&hmb_campaign=mosaic_section_1_layout_index_1_layout_type_threes_tile_index_3_c_creepycomicscollectiondarkhorse_bookbundle (https://www.humblebundle.com/books/creepy-comics-collection-dark-horse-books?hmb_source=&hmb_medium=product_tile&hmb_campaign=mosaic_section_1_layout_index_1_layout_type_threes_tile_index_3_c_creepycomicscollectiondarkhorse_bookbundle)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 18, 2023, 07:35:27 PM
^Jesus, some of the covers featured there I will never be able to unsee.

(https://hb.imgix.net/d5b24e509153af44ad3da9b1316c9a5544781e15.png?auto=compress,format&dpr=2&fit=clip&h=218&w=150&s=5bb343e4330b3c33afc7c5c06cb93f3a)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Sir Slash on October 18, 2023, 10:25:53 PM
You can't say that title's not accurate.  :shocked:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 18, 2023, 10:35:29 PM
I'm still recovering.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on October 19, 2023, 12:32:01 PM
Would do.

And I cannot wait to re-read the "Shark!" special issue (and between this and the Eerie series, finally find the issue where astronauts go to hell, see Hitler, and have a bad day all-around).
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 19, 2023, 01:37:46 PM
 :embarrassed:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on October 19, 2023, 01:54:06 PM
Quote from: Gusington on October 19, 2023, 01:37:46 PM:embarrassed:

No kinkshame here, man.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 19, 2023, 01:55:53 PM
 :notworthy:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Dammit Carl! on October 19, 2023, 01:59:50 PM
Ain't proud, man.

(skelly lady got a hot rack, tbh.)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on October 19, 2023, 02:46:23 PM
Well...no one mentioned if that was actually a lady  :Nerd:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on October 23, 2023, 08:37:22 AM
Just finished "War on the Waters: The Union and Confederate Navies, 1861–1865" by James M. McPherson

I had a bit of a blind spot about the naval combat during the Civil War, and this book was really very informative.

Most of the early Union victories during '61 and '62 came at the hands of, or were supported by the Union Navy.

Naval technology combined with technique had finally 'cracked the code' on how to neutralize land fortifications, and the Union Navy practiced this with gusto.

The history of the naval war is much more rich, complex and exciting than just the blockade, the ironclad duel at Hampton Roads, and the storming of Mobile.  The naval war was very much a global one, with CSA raiders prowling the global oceans, being chased and many times run down by intrepid US Navy ships. The Union Navy also found itself fighting a "brown water" war on the rivers, often using dash, engineering and technology to bring the war deep into the south. Like-wise, the CSA Navy knowing it could never match the Union Navy ship for ship, looked to innovative technologies like mines (called torpedoes in those days), submarines and naval rams (an ancient idea suddenly made relevant again by ironclads and steam). Overall, a great read.

This is my second James McPherson book on the Civil War, and he is quickly becoming one of my favorite Civil War authors.   

https://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.5820 (https://www.grogheads.com/forums/index.php?topic=564.5820)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on November 14, 2023, 07:54:38 AM
Just finished "Son of Morning Star: Custer and the Little Big Horn" by Evan S Connell

This is an older book, written in the '80s, that even garnered a TV mini-series. It was acclaimed back in the day, but I have mixed feelings about it.

I liked it and recommend it for anyone who already has a foundation in the events of the Plains Indians Wars and even the Little Big Horn itself.

But if this is a first Custer book for someone, just getting into the subject, I would recommend starting elsewhere.

The reason is that 'Son' is written in a meandering style, that enjoys going off into the weeds and uncovering numerous side-tales and ancillary characters.  For example, what happened to the sole cavalry horse that survived Little Big Horn? Or, what happened to Custer's dogs? 

I will give the book credit for being fairly even-keeled in its treatment of Custer.  We see the good and bad of the man.  We also see the good and bad of the other characters in the story. For example, CPT Benteen, one of Custer's subordinates, who hated Custer and was a big Custer critic, is fully fleshed out in the text.  Benteen is portrayed as a sometimes competent officer who had severe character flaws himself...drunkenness on duty being the worst of it.

'Son' is great for someone interested in minutia and Custer trivia. Not so great if you actually want to understand the battle and campaign itself.  I think that read as a companion to another book on the subject, 'Son' certainly has a place.

https://www.amazon.com/Son-Morning-Star-Custer-Bighorn/dp/0865475105/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LKAYX3JOFUZ1&keywords=son+of+morning+star&qid=1699965867&sprefix=son+of+morning+star%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Son-Morning-Star-Custer-Bighorn/dp/0865475105/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LKAYX3JOFUZ1&keywords=son+of+morning+star&qid=1699965867&sprefix=son+of+morning+star%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on November 22, 2023, 12:29:50 PM
Starting to read Dog Fight: Aerial Tactics of the Aces of World War I by Norman Franks.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1853675512?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1853675512?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details)

If you have done any serious reading of WWI aviation, and haven't bumped into a Norman Franks book, you are doing it wrong (IMHO... :peace: )

I think WWI and even WWII aviation books come in three broad categories: 1) General reader books on campaigns and personalities. 2) Technical reviews of aircraft. 3) Operational books.

The last category are often the most expensive and hardest to find. But the operational books contain all the details we wargamers love, and are often lost on general readers.  Things like, squadron OBs and TOEs, operational plans, orders, organizations, exact locations of targets and airfields, etc.

Franks, and his co-authors (many of his best books are team efforts), serve up those detailed operational books with gusto.

Dog Fight is certainly an operational book. It charts how technology drove changes in tactics over the course of the war. I wouldn't call it Franks' best book, but it certainly belongs in any serious WWI aviation library.

Anyway, I am about 40 pages in and enjoying it.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on November 27, 2023, 08:45:21 PM
Now reading 'Hitler 1889-1936: Hubris' by Ian Kershaw:
https://shorturl.at/gtyAB
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 03, 2023, 05:33:50 PM
Reading another WWI aerial war bedrock book by Norman Franks and Frank Bailey:

The Storks: The Story of France's Elite Fighter Groupe De Combat 12 (Les Cigognes) in WWI

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1898697817?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1898697817?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details)

There just aren't many good books in English about the French Air Service in WWI. But this is one of them.

The book details the operational history of the 12th Combat Group, comprising of four elite squadrons; Escadrilles N3, N26, N73 and N103.

Many well-known French aces built their reputations in this combat group, including Rene Fonck and Georges Guynemer.

However a word of warning, Storks is very matter-of-fact, prefers detail over fluff, and is not a good 'mass-market' work for the casual reader.

A much more reader friendly book about he French Air Services would be "Kings of Air" by Ian Sumner that I have posted previously. But here is the link anyway...:)

https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Air-French-Airmen-Great/dp/1783463384/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2SO12QARH2BU7&keywords=kings+of+the+air&qid=1701642808&s=books&sprefix=kings+of+the+air%2Cstripbooks%2C160&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Air-French-Airmen-Great/dp/1783463384/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2SO12QARH2BU7&keywords=kings+of+the+air&qid=1701642808&s=books&sprefix=kings+of+the+air%2Cstripbooks%2C160&sr=1-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on December 20, 2023, 01:14:12 PM
Just finished: Judgment at Tokyo: World War II on Trial and the Making of Modern Asia , by Gary J. Bass.

https://www.amazon.com/Judgment-Tokyo-World-Making-Modern/dp/1101947101/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1703095253&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Judgment-Tokyo-World-Making-Modern/dp/1101947101/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1703095253&sr=1-1)

Despite the fact that this book is getting some great accolades in the press, I am kind of lukewarm on it.

I think maybe the biggest issue for me is that it is so very, very, very thorough, particularly on the legal questions of the Trial. There is a reason I didn't choose law as a profession, and this book reminded me of that.

For books I like, I usually can't wait to pick up and start reading them... In "Tokyo's" case I couldn't wait until its end so I could put it down.  Don't get me wrong, it was well-written and informative; but Tokyo was more of a "legal" book than I had bargained for.

On the positive side, the book does a great job in laying bare the many problems that the Tokyo trial had (political, legal, moral and operational), why it is so little remembered today, and why current day Japanese have a somewhat negative view of the proceedings.

I think anyone with a deep interest in the trial should definitely pick-up this book. But I also think it would be a bit much for anyone else.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 04, 2024, 09:26:34 AM
Just finished, "Thunder in the Mountains: Chief Joseph, Oliver Otis Howard, and the Nez Perce War," by  Daniel J. Sharfstein.

This is a great, well-written and gripping account of the Nez Perce War of 1877. The campaign saw a relatively small band of Nez Perce attempt to escape to Canada after fighting started when the US Army tried to force them onto a reservation. Led by Chief Joseph, whose real name translates to something like "Thunder in the Mountains" (according to the book), the band confounded its US Army pursuers for nearly 1200 miles through Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, getting to within 40 miles of the Canadian border before being forced to surrender.  The Nez Perce even crossed the newly created Yellowstone National Park, crossing paths with some early, and very unfortunate tourists.

The book does an excellent job of covering the major protagonists. The author brings the story together in a way that does not place blame, but lets the reader judge for themselves the right and wrong of the campaign.

If the book has any failing, it is that it is not great in its coverage of the campaign from a military perspective. Certainly all the battles, and even minor skirmishes are covered. But the book describes these events from the experiences of combatants, and has only high level details of tactics, strategy and troop movements.

Still, despite this "failing" the book is highly readable, and exciting, despite the ultimate tragedy of the campaign. I highly recommend it for even casual readers interested in the subject. 

https://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Mountains-Joseph-Oliver-Howard/dp/0393355659/ref=sr_1_1?crid=CQPL0F2S656P&keywords=thunder+in+the+mountains+book&qid=1704377345&sprefix=thunder+in+the+mou%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Mountains-Joseph-Oliver-Howard/dp/0393355659/ref=sr_1_1?crid=CQPL0F2S656P&keywords=thunder+in+the+mountains+book&qid=1704377345&sprefix=thunder+in+the+mou%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 05, 2024, 09:56:32 AM
Now reading 'Black Earth: The Holocaust as History and Warning' by Timothy Snyder.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 06, 2024, 09:38:51 AM
About half-way through "Cobb" by Al Stump.

This is a controversial biography of Ty Cobb, the "Georgia Peach," undoubtedly one of the greatest baseball players in history.

The book was published in the '90s, and is the basis for the movie "Cobb" with Tommy Lee Jones. The author spent several months living with Cobb just before Cobb's death in 1961. The author's portrayal of Cobb is best summed up by his quote from Ernest Hemingway, who had gone hunting with Cobb. Hemingway cut the trip short after seeing Cobb's violent temper. Hemingway said Cobb had a "screw lose." Hemingway summed Cobb up by saying that 'Cobb was the greatest baseball player ever, but an absolute sh#t."

The book is controversial, because recent scholarship is starting to cast doubt on the 'evil Cobb' characterization. It's pretty clear that Cobb had a violent temper, and treated baseball "something like a war," but was not necessarily 'evil.' I am planning to read another more recent biography to balance out this one. Like most things in life, I expect the real Cobb was somewhere in the middle.

Sadly, like many things in the US today, even the more than 100 year old question about Cobb's character is becoming a political litmus test (among the truly small circle of folks who still care about baseball's dead-ball era).

As a read, Stump's "Cobb" is definitely a baseball book, but the structure is sometimes flawed. Stump's "Cobb" is still an entertaining read. But given the state of scholarship on Cobb's life, I am taking it with a grain of salt.   

https://www.amazon.com/Cobb-Biography-Al-Stump/dp/1565121449/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3JMO4WXUVTRPA&keywords=ty+cobb+al+stump&qid=1704550320&sprefix=ty+cobb+stu%2Caps%2C135&sr=8-2 (https://www.amazon.com/Cobb-Biography-Al-Stump/dp/1565121449/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3JMO4WXUVTRPA&keywords=ty+cobb+al+stump&qid=1704550320&sprefix=ty+cobb+stu%2Caps%2C135&sr=8-2)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 06, 2024, 09:49:54 AM
Whenever people mention Ty Cobb the scene and comments from Field of Dreams from Shoeless Joe are the first things that pop into my head.

'Ty Cobb wanted to play, but none of us could stand the son-of-a-bitch when we were alive, so we told him to stick it!'
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 07, 2024, 10:18:23 PM
Quote from: Gusington on January 06, 2024, 09:49:54 AMWhenever people mention Ty Cobb the scene and comments from Field of Dreams from Shoeless Joe are the first things that pop into my head.

'Ty Cobb wanted to play, but none of us could stand the son-of-a-bitch when we were alive, so we told him to stick it!'

Great movie and great line; and true for many players.

Cobb regularly had serious brawls, with fists flying. He pretty much fought everybody, including other players, an umpire and even players on his team.

He was often suspended for fighting. But he was so good, and his box-office draw so important, that the suspensions didn't last long.

He did get along with some other players however, and even had a few 'friends.'

One of Cobb's friends was "Shoeless Joe Jackson." Cobb and Jackson often traded notes on batting.

Interestingly, 30 years after "Shoeless Joe" was suspended, Cobb was passing through Greenville, North Carolina, and stopped by the liquor store that Joe owned and operated. It was Cobb's way of supporting him. Cobb apparently asked Joe to autograph a baseball.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 16, 2024, 02:57:07 PM
Since the first Ty Cobb book I read was so controversial, I had to read a more recent one...and one that goes out of its way to call out "inaccuracies" in the first.

So I just completed:

Ty Cobb: A Terrible Beauty by Charles Leerhsen

https://www.amazon.com/Ty-Cobb-Terrible-Charles-Leerhsen/dp/1451645791/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705434661&sr=1-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Ty-Cobb-Terrible-Charles-Leerhsen/dp/1451645791/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705434661&sr=1-1)

I've already talked alot about Cobb, so I will just say that this more recent book is better structured than the first, and seems to be better researched. I recommend it for anyone interested in Cobb and the Deadball Era.

To answer the question of the hour however, Cobb was not evil; just a super-star who was combative and sometimes behaved very badly. He was often violent in his youth. He strove to dominate the game, and did it with more "bite" than "bark." When he slid into third-base on a steal, spikes high and flashing in the sun, he was purposely trying to intimidate the poor third-baseman, and it often worked. This often led to inside the clubhouse and under the bleachers brawling, before and after games. But on occasion, he also got into brawls with hotel staff, a heckler in the stands, a waitress, a construction worker, and a butcher. Like a modern bad-boy celebrity, a team of lawyers pretty much cleaned up after him with settlement payments. Later in life, he calmed down, and seemed to regret the rage of his youth.

What I find fascinating about Cobb, is that he was a complex character, who didn't fit into a "box." He was not a mindless brawler. He was highly intelligent, and often spent his time-off reading books, listening to classical music, going to the opera or visiting museums. He started out with little to his name, but had a knack for making money, and became very rich and successful in business. He may or may not have been a racist in his youth, but in his final years, he fully supported the black players entering baseball like Jackie Robinson, and Roy Campenella. As far as his violent temper, it may have been part act in his youth, and part actual rage. In his early years playing, he tried to throw opposing teams off their game through what we would call today, 'psych-outs.' For example, he got a reputation for "sharpening" his spikes before a game, and at the time he may have encouraged the idea to intimidate his opponents. However it is pretty clear that he never actually sharpened his spikes. In later life, this image of slicing spikes stuck with him, and he seemed to regret it. 
 

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 26, 2024, 07:56:58 AM
I just finished a fairly popular book here on Grogs: Castles of Steel by Massie. 

If you don't know, it's a naval history of WW1 and covers the major battles.  I tried multiple times to get into this book; the secret is to just plow through the first 50 pages of background on William - the German leader - and get into the good stuff.

It's long, but once I got through the initial background I couldn't put it down. 

I haven't tried the book's predecessor: Dreadnought, yet.  I'm not sure I'll enjoy it as much.

Currently reading: The Caine Mutiny by Herman Wouk.  I'm not sure if I'm enjoying it.  I'm very much not into Wouk's writing style.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on January 26, 2024, 08:32:44 AM
Quote from: Toonces on January 26, 2024, 07:56:58 AMI just finished a fairly popular book here on Grogs: Castles of Steel by Massie. 

If you don't know, it's a naval history of WW1 and covers the major battles.  I tried multiple times to get into this book; the secret is to just plow through the first 50 pages of background on William - the German leader - and get into the good stuff.

It's long, but once I got through the initial background I couldn't put it down. 

I haven't tried the book's predecessor: Dreadnought, yet.  I'm not sure I'll enjoy it as much.

Currently reading: The Caine Mutiny by Herman Wouk.  I'm not sure if I'm enjoying it.  I'm very much not into Wouk's writing style.

Dreadnought is also very good, and is well worth your time.  I personally liked The Caine Mutiny, but it has been 40 years since I read it.  It was one of Wouk's earlier works.  If you haven't tried them, take a look at "Winds of War" and "War and Remembrance".  I really liked those two books, and the miniseries based on them is outstanding
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on January 26, 2024, 10:48:15 AM
Quote from: Tripoli on January 26, 2024, 08:32:44 AM
Quote from: Toonces on January 26, 2024, 07:56:58 AMI just finished a fairly popular book here on Grogs: Castles of Steel by Massie. 

If you don't know, it's a naval history of WW1 and covers the major battles.  I tried multiple times to get into this book; the secret is to just plow through the first 50 pages of background on William - the German leader - and get into the good stuff.

It's long, but once I got through the initial background I couldn't put it down. 

I haven't tried the book's predecessor: Dreadnought, yet.  I'm not sure I'll enjoy it as much.

Currently reading: The Caine Mutiny by Herman Wouk.  I'm not sure if I'm enjoying it.  I'm very much not into Wouk's writing style.

Dreadnought is also very good, and is well worth your time.  I personally liked The Caine Mutiny, but it has been 40 years since I read it.  It was one of Wouk's earlier works.  If you haven't tried them, take a look at "Winds of War" and "War and Remembrance".  I really liked those two books, and the miniseries based on them is outstanding

+1 Agree that Dreadnought and Castles of Steel are both really good.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 26, 2024, 12:49:57 PM
I read Dreadnought many many years ago - my first Massie book - and he is one of my favorite authors ever. Castles of Steel has been on my to read list forever, just haven't got to it yet.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 28, 2024, 10:00:16 AM
I am just not enjoying The Caine Mutiny.  I'm at the "Yellow Stain" chapter.  I'm really trying to like this book, it gets such great reviews.  It might just be Wouk.  I didn't get through War and Remembrance either. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on January 28, 2024, 12:06:33 PM
^I was the same way with Guns of August by Margaret Tuchman. Loving the era and loving her books The Proud Tower and a Distant Mirror, I thought it would be a slam dunk. It wasn't for me. Just could not get through it. And I am a reader that tries to power through almost anything I commit to.

It happens, breh.

Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on January 28, 2024, 10:19:32 PM
Glantz's Leningrad....   :HideEyes:
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on January 31, 2024, 12:11:17 PM
I finished The Caine Mutiny.  It was ok.  The movie was better.

I'm in between books now.  I just don't know what to read.  I did the first chapter of Dreadnought - what a sleeping pill.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: SirAndrewD on January 31, 2024, 12:22:14 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/KsKNNwY/sas.jpg)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Tripoli on January 31, 2024, 12:38:03 PM
Quote from: Toonces on January 31, 2024, 12:11:17 PMI finished The Caine Mutiny.  It was ok.  The movie was better.

I'm in between books now.  I just don't know what to read.  I did the first chapter of Dreadnought - what a sleeping pill.

Just a suggestion: Would Hornblower or  Patrick O'Brian scratch the maritime itch?  Another truly great  non-fiction book, if you haven't read it yet is "Japanese Destroyer Captain".  There is an audio version, but I'd get the book itself.  It will never leave your bookcase once you've read it: https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Destroyer-Captain-Guadalcanal-Battles/dp/1511395931
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Toonces on February 28, 2024, 10:02:12 AM
^ Thanks for the suggestion.  I just borrowed Japanese Destroyer Captain for my Kindle.

I'm still working through Dreadnought...got to Part 2: The Navy.  I'm not sure I'm going to stick with it.  I will say, though, that after finishing Castles of Steel and some of Dreadnought I'm considering a re-read of Gordon's The Rules of the Game.  I think I'll get a deeper read now with more background information.

I'm also reading The Longest Night: A Military History of the Civil War (it's ok...not much new information here.  I might be hitting diminishing returns with my Civil War reading), and I'm on my third try with Atkinson's The Guns at Last Light, part 3 of his WW2 in Europe trilogy.  Something about his writing - his use of short quotes all over the place - really jars me and grates on my nerves. 
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: nelmsm on February 28, 2024, 11:31:58 PM
Reading Commentaries on the Gallic War by Julius Caesar.  Wondering if even the Gauls could keep all those tribes straight.
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on February 29, 2024, 03:17:36 PM
Just finished a nice, but slim book about the US writing the Japanese Constitution after WWII.

"The Only Woman in Room," by Beate Sirota-Gordon

It is an autobiography by one of the writers of the Japanese Constitution.

I don't think it is the kind of book that most on this forum would be interested in...but you never know.

Beate Sirota-Gordon was a young Jewish woman from Austria, who 'escaped' the Nazis by moving to Japan before the war. She grew up in Japan, and just before the war, went to the US to study. She eventually became a US citizen, and worked for MacArthur's Tokyo occupation headquarters (GHQ) just after the war.

MacArthur was frustrated by the Japanese Bureaucrats' several failed attempts to write a meaningful constitution to replace the pre-war one that had let the militarists run the Government. So Doug took 25 of his folks, including Beate Sirota, put them in an old ballroom and gave them a week to write the constitution. Sirota personally wrote the clause that gives equality to the sexes. The constitution they put together is more or less the same one Japan has now.

Anyway, the book really covers a historical niche within a niche. But I am fascinated by the Occupation years so I found it to be a great read for me.

https://www.amazon.com/Only-Woman-Room-Memoir-Rights/dp/022613251X/ref=sr_1_6?crid=YBXMPV20SMI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hF3ufnGgjK6XcsKvcdf6cHbxCtFFtskRU0GxjdyfrzUUvJnsLcIRMrwIpEfGq6nNMUJE3FmHZkf-DJG1vhc5CnrJDGjj7nKqeV2zPwhR65rI2U7hVJqZktFP5gmU1RRNUM7A8-UmTPxckr9_PrazB8_dFn86zasNplpCm7oyU8fTjBFpt2YIoZbQ7xOGddCVfrXV69CPsAqObK-VR1qwgOzeAe6YXl0s-4Iw2nkbbMc.ml9ceqEYjKZyw27qFme3_lHEY6Xmo5C-Zhcz0UWm69k&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+only+woman+in+the+room&qid=1709237078&sprefix=the+only+woma%2Caps%2C148&sr=8-6 (https://www.amazon.com/Only-Woman-Room-Memoir-Rights/dp/022613251X/ref=sr_1_6?crid=YBXMPV20SMI9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hF3ufnGgjK6XcsKvcdf6cHbxCtFFtskRU0GxjdyfrzUUvJnsLcIRMrwIpEfGq6nNMUJE3FmHZkf-DJG1vhc5CnrJDGjj7nKqeV2zPwhR65rI2U7hVJqZktFP5gmU1RRNUM7A8-UmTPxckr9_PrazB8_dFn86zasNplpCm7oyU8fTjBFpt2YIoZbQ7xOGddCVfrXV69CPsAqObK-VR1qwgOzeAe6YXl0s-4Iw2nkbbMc.ml9ceqEYjKZyw27qFme3_lHEY6Xmo5C-Zhcz0UWm69k&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+only+woman+in+the+room&qid=1709237078&sprefix=the+only+woma%2Caps%2C148&sr=8-6)
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: ArizonaTank on March 08, 2024, 12:41:15 PM
Finally taking on one of my long term 'in the queue' books, Doris Kearns-Goodwin's, "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln."

The book is a hefty, at nearly 1000 pages and I am about 1/3 in.

It is clearly a book about politics, and not my usual thing, but I am enjoying it quite a bit.

https://www.amazon.com/Team-Rivals-Political-Abraham-Lincoln/dp/0743270754/ref=sr_1_1?crid=12M63PO5RDN0J&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hvfWVnrPRxEgkkNiDM9oAMQJa4kxyC3SbPif0RT-gJ3Kg6tCJlMafAp0K9q4aE0rgSOwdrhuh4z2N9RR7IS4iCLwOqqapUZR6kF6haF95B4072cBUhkCbXUByElyvxaVOw_Q8fSgHCqmRNi4vWYNlS_6Hxa-TyI09-old8qZVEpv7LbscUCaSbBohx3rNLZNJg95OLuwqwBKi4bNogwLWxrtj62utMEF629qrdQrSOk.x74wuYT7xWsYKkTMC55dYXqqaJZeVvcvkgBQP4S_O7Y&dib_tag=se&keywords=team+of+rivals+the+political+genius+of+abraham+lincoln&qid=1709918766&sprefix=team+of+riva%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/Team-Rivals-Political-Abraham-Lincoln/dp/0743270754/ref=sr_1_1?crid=12M63PO5RDN0J&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hvfWVnrPRxEgkkNiDM9oAMQJa4kxyC3SbPif0RT-gJ3Kg6tCJlMafAp0K9q4aE0rgSOwdrhuh4z2N9RR7IS4iCLwOqqapUZR6kF6haF95B4072cBUhkCbXUByElyvxaVOw_Q8fSgHCqmRNi4vWYNlS_6Hxa-TyI09-old8qZVEpv7LbscUCaSbBohx3rNLZNJg95OLuwqwBKi4bNogwLWxrtj62utMEF629qrdQrSOk.x74wuYT7xWsYKkTMC55dYXqqaJZeVvcvkgBQP4S_O7Y&dib_tag=se&keywords=team+of+rivals+the+political+genius+of+abraham+lincoln&qid=1709918766&sprefix=team+of+riva%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-1)

The book inspired Steven Spielberg's movie "Lincoln." The book includes one of Lincoln's long jokes about Ethan Allan and the British, that is also part of the movie. It's a great story, and one of my favorite parts of the movie:


Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: GDS_Starfury on March 12, 2024, 01:48:01 AM
(https://public-files.gumroad.com/36wbq1ytgd93jgfq74bz754gk0ou)

https://artofsoulburn.gumroad.com/
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Gusington on March 12, 2024, 08:07:58 AM
^Oh my
Title: Re: What are we reading?
Post by: Windigo on March 12, 2024, 02:20:33 PM
(https://cdn.mumsgrapevine.com.au/site/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/parody-where-the-wild-mums2.jpg)