Specials

 Specials By: Scott Westerfeld

This book started out much like the others, so I was expecting just that kind of story line but then it all changed. The author did a really good job flipping everything on its head. I thought I had the story somewhat figured out. But when I was done with the book I was left wondering what just happened, The bad guy I thought was the bad guy isn't/wasn't the bad guy and the story wasn't anything like I thought it was going to be. After each book, I felt like I at least knew or had a base impression on what to expect from the next book. Not this time. I cant wait to get into the next book just to see what happens and how this story continues.

Pretties

 

Pretties By: Scott Westerfeld

Continuing the adventures of Tally Youngblood it was interesting to see the transition that was made with the character from the first book (Uglies) to this one. As well as the other characters associated with her mostly Paris and Shay. It also took a minute to get use to the new lingo this book had what the characters call "pretty" talk. The book started out very fast paced, it leveled off a bit and part of the story that was told I have a feeling is going to be important in the future books but didn't seem to align with the story as much as the rest. A sort of side story I guess, but like i said I think its going to come into play a lot more in the other books.

Uglies

 Uglies By: Scott Westerfeld

I actually stumbled upon the movie on Netflix before I realized this was a book series. It didn't take long once the movie ended more abruptly than I had anticipated. So I went searching for the reason and discovered it was based off this series. This is another post apocalyptic story about how society changed and "adapted" after a nonnuclear type fallout. There wasn't to many big surprises since I had already seen the movie, but the book is still definitely better. I am excited to continue on to the next book.

Murtagh

 

Murtagh BY: Christopher Paolini

This book was excellent. It was nice to learn more about Murtagh and Thorn, even if their backstory is super tragic. It was interesting to see the evolution of the character through their own eyes instead of through another's viewpoint. The conflict of finding a witch was nail-biting at times. This book had me on the edge from start to finish. If you enjoyed the Inheritance series, this book is a must-read. 

The Second Coming of the Lord

The Second Coming of the Lord By: Gerald N. Lund

This was a really fascinating read. I wish I had read this as a hard copy, so I could have made notes. It was interesting to take a look at all the revelations and prophecies associated with the second coming of the Lord and to be able to see what has already come to pass and things that haven't yet. 
 

Inheritance

 Inheritance By: Christopher Paolini

Reading this again and knowing/remembering most of the outcome of the book (the big stuff). I was able to go into this book with a different perspective and look at it subjectively. That being said the first time I read it I wasn't thrilled with the outcome of the book. This time around, although I am still biased about how the book ended. Although it was hard saying goodbye to Eragon and Saphira again. I can understand why it ended the way it did; as well as see how well the author did making sure there were no loose ends left. I have thoroughly enjoyed revisiting this series and I am excited to read the other books by Christopher Paolini. Especially those books that take me back to the mystical land of Alagaësia. 

The Secret Life of Houdini: The Making of America's First Superhero

 

The Secret Life of Houdini: The Making of America's First Superhero BY: William Kalush and Larry Sloman

This is a book I found on the shelf at a previous job. It looked so interesting I added it to my "to read" list. It was a perfect choice for my pick when it was time in the book club I'm in. 

Erich Weisz aka Harry Houdini was such a fascinating person, I had no idea that he was instrumental in helping law enforcement from local all the way to the CIA. Not just here in the US either, but in Europe as well. From helping to improve their restraints to even being a liaison and working in various undercover works. I also had no idea that Houdini was an author and was so pivotal in bringing to light the falseness of various mediums and spiritualists including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and his second wife. Everything about this book and the life of Houdini was fascinating and one thing I also found remarkable was the love and partnership he had with his wife. Also I was under the impression that Houdini died due to one of his tricks gone wrong. I had no idea he died after having his appendix rupture. I really enjoyed this book and learning about this fascinating man.