What are you reading?

[Segue Myles]

A little embarrassing, but I've been nibbling my way through lotr for the better part of the past few years. Anyway I've been on Return Of The King for months, and finally over the past few days I've sat myself down and started plowing through it. At last earlier this afternoon I reached Mt. Doom, and now I've stopped again with four chapters left in the whole trilogy, most of the action seemingly abided. I can say without a doubt lotr has been the greatest story I've ever read, especially including The Hobbit and The Simarillion, but I will be glad to turn my attention to other great works in this genre, and other great works in general. It's been years since I finished the first book of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice (or is it Ice and Fire), A Game of Thrones. I should be happy to pick up with A Clash of Kings once I'm finished with Tolkien's trilogy. Or perhaps I shall turn to C.S. Lewis' works. Or perhaps even borrow the Harry Potter books from my sisters. It seems to me I'm on the brink of being able to read freely and frequently for the first time since early high school. How enchanting.

 

Does it show I've been reading Tolkien? lol

 

Please listen to me. Skip all those and go straight to Robin Hobb. I will link you to an article later to whet your appetite. Then you can thank me later!

 

Robin Hobb? Never heard of it, but you seem so enthusiastic I’m intrigued. I’ve still got a day or two more before I finish off Return Of The King, so be my guest with the link!

 

https://writerscuppabrew.wordpress.com/2018/08/17/16-reasons-the-next-author-you-pick-up-is-robin-hobb/

 

Pirates and assassins I’m on board with. Character development awesome as well. The many points about equal representation I of course am more than glad to see, but don’t really tell me enough about the quality of the storytelling or plot to entice me. I will look for one of her books next time I’m at the library or bookstore, but forgive me if I happen to start something else first. Thank you for the recommendation though, I’ve not read much in the way of seafaring literature and would love to read something of the sort.

 

Its five series that unite to create one gigantic tale.

 

In order:

1. The Farseer Trilogy

 

Not a seafaring story, but the tale of the main hero Fitz, as he discovers he is a royal bastard with the task of learning to become a royal assassin. Can talk to animals, which is a feared skill. Amazing...AMAZING trilogy.

 

2. The Liveship Traders Trilogy

 

Set in the same world, for the most part it can be read as a completely seperate entity. Really amazing character development. It starts slow but once it all starts to come together it is phenomenal. Greatest fantasy trilogy I have ever read. It may appear to be seperate from the first trilogy, but both are essential for what comes next. Pirates galore. Seafaring adventures of the highest order, but it has plenty going on on land as well.

 

3. The Tawny Man Trilogy

 

The direct sequel to the first, but much of what happens in this trilogy is directly influenced by the astonishing events and climax of the Liveship Traders. Terrific, you fall absolutely in love with everything about this world for sure by this point (but if you reach this far, you are already well and truly hooked).

 

4. The Rain Wild Chronicles Quartet

 

In some ways a direct sequel to all that came before, but this time with a mostly whole new set of characters. World building galore, plus you learn a lot more about what happened directly after certain events of The Liveship Traders that was merely hinted at in Tawny Man. Slower going, but rich and diverse and indulgent. Currently on book two and it's great. Not as gripping as what came before, but I have been told it adds a lot of important details in preparation for the grand finale which is:

 

5. Fitz And The Fool Trilogy

 

Have yet to start this but my heart is yearning for a return to the characters of The Farseer Trilogy and The Tawny Man Trilogy. Have been told this final trilogy ends the series (entitled in its entirety as "The Realm Of The Elderlings") by drawing together EVERYTHING that came before, travelling the full scope of the series and the world. Will be terrific to see how and what characters interact with each other from across the series (every subsequent series has cameos or full character arcs from other series, but I imagine this might be taken to the next level).

 

All in all, one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. Best aspects: the characters, the complex and intricately woven threads of plot and IT IS FINISHED!

 

Royal intrigue, wretched betrayals, tests of loyalty, a sprinkling of magic, pirates, dragons (oh the dragons), talking ships, three dimensional characters (even those that may only be minor, perhaps just a page or two), castles, sea battles, intrigue, mysterious sea serpents, a battle against flesh and blood (but one side having lost all humanity), love, patience, beauty, brutality, nature...both of the world at large and a deeper exploration of the inner person...

 

This series changed my life, and it is exceptional. And probably unfilmable. Which is why A Song Of Ice And Fire is so well known whilst series like this, whilst still massive sellers, fall beneath the radar somewhat.

 

Oh, and best of all? It is very different to Tolkien. Refreshing and intense literary fantasy.

Edited December 22, 2018 by Segue Myles

[Entre_Perpetuo]

A little embarrassing, but I've been nibbling my way through lotr for the better part of the past few years. Anyway I've been on Return Of The King for months, and finally over the past few days I've sat myself down and started plowing through it. At last earlier this afternoon I reached Mt. Doom, and now I've stopped again with four chapters left in the whole trilogy, most of the action seemingly abided. I can say without a doubt lotr has been the greatest story I've ever read, especially including The Hobbit and The Simarillion, but I will be glad to turn my attention to other great works in this genre, and other great works in general. It's been years since I finished the first book of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice (or is it Ice and Fire), A Game of Thrones. I should be happy to pick up with A Clash of Kings once I'm finished with Tolkien's trilogy. Or perhaps I shall turn to C.S. Lewis' works. Or perhaps even borrow the Harry Potter books from my sisters. It seems to me I'm on the brink of being able to read freely and frequently for the first time since early high school. How enchanting.

 

Does it show I've been reading Tolkien? lol

 

Please listen to me. Skip all those and go straight to Robin Hobb. I will link you to an article later to whet your appetite. Then you can thank me later!

 

Robin Hobb? Never heard of it, but you seem so enthusiastic I’m intrigued. I’ve still got a day or two more before I finish off Return Of The King, so be my guest with the link!

 

https://writerscuppabrew.wordpress.com/2018/08/17/16-reasons-the-next-author-you-pick-up-is-robin-hobb/

 

Pirates and assassins I’m on board with. Character development awesome as well. The many points about equal representation I of course am more than glad to see, but don’t really tell me enough about the quality of the storytelling or plot to entice me. I will look for one of her books next time I’m at the library or bookstore, but forgive me if I happen to start something else first. Thank you for the recommendation though, I’ve not read much in the way of seafaring literature and would love to read something of the sort.

 

Its five series that unite to create one gigantic tale.

 

In order:

1. The Farseer Trilogy

 

Not a seafaring story, but the tale of the main hero Fitz, as he discovers he is a royal bastard with the task of learning to become a royal assassin. Can talk to animals, which is a feared skill. Amazing...AMAZING trilogy.

 

2. The Liveship Traders Trilogy

 

Set in the same world, for the most part it can be read as a completely seperate entity. Really amazing character development. It starts slow but once it all starts to come together it is phenomenal. Greatest fantasy trilogy I have ever read. It may appear to be seperate from the first trilogy, but both are essential for what comes next. Pirates galore. Seafaring adventures of the highest order, but it has plenty going on on land as well.

 

3. The Tawny Man Trilogy

 

The direct sequel to the first, but much of what happens in this trilogy is directly influenced by the astonishing events and climax of the Liveship Traders. Terrific, you fall absolutely in love with everything about this world for sure by this point (but if you reach this far, you are already well and truly hooked).

 

4. The Rain Wild Chronicles Quartet

 

In some ways a direct sequel to all that came before, but this time with a mostly whole new set of characters. World building galore, plus you learn a lot more about what happened directly after certain events of The Liveship Traders that was merely hinted at in Tawny Man. Slower going, but rich and diverse and indulgent. Currently on book two and it's great. Not as gripping as what came before, but I have been told it adds a lot of important details in preparation for the grand finale which is:

 

5. Fitz And The Fool Trilogy

 

Have yet to start this but my heart is yearning for a return to the characters of The Farseer Trilogy and The Tawny Man Trilogy. Have been told this final trilogy ends the series (entitled in its entirety as "The Realm Of The Elderlings") by drawing together EVERYTHING that came before, travelling the full scope of the series and the world. Will be terrific to see how and what characters interact with each other from across the series (every subsequent series has cameos or full character arcs from other series, but I imagine this might be taken to the next level).

 

All in all, one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. Best part it is the characters, the complex and intricately woven threads of plot and IT IS FINISHED!

 

Okay, that’s more like it!

[Segue Myles]

A little embarrassing, but I've been nibbling my way through lotr for the better part of the past few years. Anyway I've been on Return Of The King for months, and finally over the past few days I've sat myself down and started plowing through it. At last earlier this afternoon I reached Mt. Doom, and now I've stopped again with four chapters left in the whole trilogy, most of the action seemingly abided. I can say without a doubt lotr has been the greatest story I've ever read, especially including The Hobbit and The Simarillion, but I will be glad to turn my attention to other great works in this genre, and other great works in general. It's been years since I finished the first book of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice (or is it Ice and Fire), A Game of Thrones. I should be happy to pick up with A Clash of Kings once I'm finished with Tolkien's trilogy. Or perhaps I shall turn to C.S. Lewis' works. Or perhaps even borrow the Harry Potter books from my sisters. It seems to me I'm on the brink of being able to read freely and frequently for the first time since early high school. How enchanting.

 

Does it show I've been reading Tolkien? lol

 

Please listen to me. Skip all those and go straight to Robin Hobb. I will link you to an article later to whet your appetite. Then you can thank me later!

 

Robin Hobb? Never heard of it, but you seem so enthusiastic I’m intrigued. I’ve still got a day or two more before I finish off Return Of The King, so be my guest with the link!

 

https://writerscuppabrew.wordpress.com/2018/08/17/16-reasons-the-next-author-you-pick-up-is-robin-hobb/

 

Pirates and assassins I’m on board with. Character development awesome as well. The many points about equal representation I of course am more than glad to see, but don’t really tell me enough about the quality of the storytelling or plot to entice me. I will look for one of her books next time I’m at the library or bookstore, but forgive me if I happen to start something else first. Thank you for the recommendation though, I’ve not read much in the way of seafaring literature and would love to read something of the sort.

 

Its five series that unite to create one gigantic tale.

 

In order:

1. The Farseer Trilogy

 

Not a seafaring story, but the tale of the main hero Fitz, as he discovers he is a royal bastard with the task of learning to become a royal assassin. Can talk to animals, which is a feared skill. Amazing...AMAZING trilogy.

 

2. The Liveship Traders Trilogy

 

Set in the same world, for the most part it can be read as a completely seperate entity. Really amazing character development. It starts slow but once it all starts to come together it is phenomenal. Greatest fantasy trilogy I have ever read. It may appear to be seperate from the first trilogy, but both are essential for what comes next. Pirates galore. Seafaring adventures of the highest order, but it has plenty going on on land as well.

 

3. The Tawny Man Trilogy

 

The direct sequel to the first, but much of what happens in this trilogy is directly influenced by the astonishing events and climax of the Liveship Traders. Terrific, you fall absolutely in love with everything about this world for sure by this point (but if you reach this far, you are already well and truly hooked).

 

4. The Rain Wild Chronicles Quartet

 

In some ways a direct sequel to all that came before, but this time with a mostly whole new set of characters. World building galore, plus you learn a lot more about what happened directly after certain events of The Liveship Traders that was merely hinted at in Tawny Man. Slower going, but rich and diverse and indulgent. Currently on book two and it's great. Not as gripping as what came before, but I have been told it adds a lot of important details in preparation for the grand finale which is:

 

5. Fitz And The Fool Trilogy

 

Have yet to start this but my heart is yearning for a return to the characters of The Farseer Trilogy and The Tawny Man Trilogy. Have been told this final trilogy ends the series (entitled in its entirety as "The Realm Of The Elderlings") by drawing together EVERYTHING that came before, travelling the full scope of the series and the world. Will be terrific to see how and what characters interact with each other from across the series (every subsequent series has cameos or full character arcs from other series, but I imagine this might be taken to the next level).

 

All in all, one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. Best part it is the characters, the complex and intricately woven threads of plot and IT IS FINISHED!

 

Okay, that’s more like it!

 

Read my edit

[Entre_Perpetuo]

A little embarrassing, but I've been nibbling my way through lotr for the better part of the past few years. Anyway I've been on Return Of The King for months, and finally over the past few days I've sat myself down and started plowing through it. At last earlier this afternoon I reached Mt. Doom, and now I've stopped again with four chapters left in the whole trilogy, most of the action seemingly abided. I can say without a doubt lotr has been the greatest story I've ever read, especially including The Hobbit and The Simarillion, but I will be glad to turn my attention to other great works in this genre, and other great works in general. It's been years since I finished the first book of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice (or is it Ice and Fire), A Game of Thrones. I should be happy to pick up with A Clash of Kings once I'm finished with Tolkien's trilogy. Or perhaps I shall turn to C.S. Lewis' works. Or perhaps even borrow the Harry Potter books from my sisters. It seems to me I'm on the brink of being able to read freely and frequently for the first time since early high school. How enchanting.

 

Does it show I've been reading Tolkien? lol

 

Please listen to me. Skip all those and go straight to Robin Hobb. I will link you to an article later to whet your appetite. Then you can thank me later!

 

Robin Hobb? Never heard of it, but you seem so enthusiastic I’m intrigued. I’ve still got a day or two more before I finish off Return Of The King, so be my guest with the link!

 

https://writerscuppabrew.wordpress.com/2018/08/17/16-reasons-the-next-author-you-pick-up-is-robin-hobb/

 

Pirates and assassins I’m on board with. Character development awesome as well. The many points about equal representation I of course am more than glad to see, but don’t really tell me enough about the quality of the storytelling or plot to entice me. I will look for one of her books next time I’m at the library or bookstore, but forgive me if I happen to start something else first. Thank you for the recommendation though, I’ve not read much in the way of seafaring literature and would love to read something of the sort.

 

Its five series that unite to create one gigantic tale.

 

In order:

1. The Farseer Trilogy

 

Not a seafaring story, but the tale of the main hero Fitz, as he discovers he is a royal bastard with the task of learning to become a royal assassin. Can talk to animals, which is a feared skill. Amazing...AMAZING trilogy.

 

2. The Liveship Traders Trilogy

 

Set in the same world, for the most part it can be read as a completely seperate entity. Really amazing character development. It starts slow but once it all starts to come together it is phenomenal. Greatest fantasy trilogy I have ever read. It may appear to be seperate from the first trilogy, but both are essential for what comes next. Pirates galore. Seafaring adventures of the highest order, but it has plenty going on on land as well.

 

3. The Tawny Man Trilogy

 

The direct sequel to the first, but much of what happens in this trilogy is directly influenced by the astonishing events and climax of the Liveship Traders. Terrific, you fall absolutely in love with everything about this world for sure by this point (but if you reach this far, you are already well and truly hooked).

 

4. The Rain Wild Chronicles Quartet

 

In some ways a direct sequel to all that came before, but this time with a mostly whole new set of characters. World building galore, plus you learn a lot more about what happened directly after certain events of The Liveship Traders that was merely hinted at in Tawny Man. Slower going, but rich and diverse and indulgent. Currently on book two and it's great. Not as gripping as what came before, but I have been told it adds a lot of important details in preparation for the grand finale which is:

 

5. Fitz And The Fool Trilogy

 

Have yet to start this but my heart is yearning for a return to the characters of The Farseer Trilogy and The Tawny Man Trilogy. Have been told this final trilogy ends the series (entitled in its entirety as "The Realm Of The Elderlings") by drawing together EVERYTHING that came before, travelling the full scope of the series and the world. Will be terrific to see how and what characters interact with each other from across the series (every subsequent series has cameos or full character arcs from other series, but I imagine this might be taken to the next level).

 

All in all, one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. Best aspects: the characters, the complex and intricately woven threads of plot and IT IS FINISHED!

 

Royal intrigue, wretched betrayals, tests of loyalty, a sprinkling of magic, pirates, dragons (oh the dragons), talking ships, three dimensional characters (even those that may only be minor, perhaps just a page or two), castles, sea battles, intrigue, mysterious sea serpents, a battle against flesh and blood (but one side having lost all humanity), love, patience, beauty, brutality, nature...both of the world at large and a deeper exploration of the inner person...

 

This series changed my life, and it is exceptional. And probably unfilmable. Which is why A Song Of Ice And Fire is so well known whilst series like this, whilst still massive sellers, fall beneath the radar somewhat.

 

Oh, and best of all? It is very different to Tolkien. Refreshing and intense literary fantasy.

 

Alright lol I’ll give it a shot. You recommend starting with book 1 trilogy 1?

[Fordgalaxy]

[Segue Myles]

A little embarrassing, but I've been nibbling my way through lotr for the better part of the past few years. Anyway I've been on Return Of The King for months, and finally over the past few days I've sat myself down and started plowing through it. At last earlier this afternoon I reached Mt. Doom, and now I've stopped again with four chapters left in the whole trilogy, most of the action seemingly abided. I can say without a doubt lotr has been the greatest story I've ever read, especially including The Hobbit and The Simarillion, but I will be glad to turn my attention to other great works in this genre, and other great works in general. It's been years since I finished the first book of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice (or is it Ice and Fire), A Game of Thrones. I should be happy to pick up with A Clash of Kings once I'm finished with Tolkien's trilogy. Or perhaps I shall turn to C.S. Lewis' works. Or perhaps even borrow the Harry Potter books from my sisters. It seems to me I'm on the brink of being able to read freely and frequently for the first time since early high school. How enchanting.

 

Does it show I've been reading Tolkien? lol

 

Please listen to me. Skip all those and go straight to Robin Hobb. I will link you to an article later to whet your appetite. Then you can thank me later!

 

Robin Hobb? Never heard of it, but you seem so enthusiastic I’m intrigued. I’ve still got a day or two more before I finish off Return Of The King, so be my guest with the link!

 

https://writerscuppabrew.wordpress.com/2018/08/17/16-reasons-the-next-author-you-pick-up-is-robin-hobb/

 

Pirates and assassins I’m on board with. Character development awesome as well. The many points about equal representation I of course am more than glad to see, but don’t really tell me enough about the quality of the storytelling or plot to entice me. I will look for one of her books next time I’m at the library or bookstore, but forgive me if I happen to start something else first. Thank you for the recommendation though, I’ve not read much in the way of seafaring literature and would love to read something of the sort.

 

Its five series that unite to create one gigantic tale.

 

In order:

1. The Farseer Trilogy

 

Not a seafaring story, but the tale of the main hero Fitz, as he discovers he is a royal bastard with the task of learning to become a royal assassin. Can talk to animals, which is a feared skill. Amazing...AMAZING trilogy.

 

2. The Liveship Traders Trilogy

 

Set in the same world, for the most part it can be read as a completely seperate entity. Really amazing character development. It starts slow but once it all starts to come together it is phenomenal. Greatest fantasy trilogy I have ever read. It may appear to be seperate from the first trilogy, but both are essential for what comes next. Pirates galore. Seafaring adventures of the highest order, but it has plenty going on on land as well.

 

3. The Tawny Man Trilogy

 

The direct sequel to the first, but much of what happens in this trilogy is directly influenced by the astonishing events and climax of the Liveship Traders. Terrific, you fall absolutely in love with everything about this world for sure by this point (but if you reach this far, you are already well and truly hooked).

 

4. The Rain Wild Chronicles Quartet

 

In some ways a direct sequel to all that came before, but this time with a mostly whole new set of characters. World building galore, plus you learn a lot more about what happened directly after certain events of The Liveship Traders that was merely hinted at in Tawny Man. Slower going, but rich and diverse and indulgent. Currently on book two and it's great. Not as gripping as what came before, but I have been told it adds a lot of important details in preparation for the grand finale which is:

 

5. Fitz And The Fool Trilogy

 

Have yet to start this but my heart is yearning for a return to the characters of The Farseer Trilogy and The Tawny Man Trilogy. Have been told this final trilogy ends the series (entitled in its entirety as "The Realm Of The Elderlings") by drawing together EVERYTHING that came before, travelling the full scope of the series and the world. Will be terrific to see how and what characters interact with each other from across the series (every subsequent series has cameos or full character arcs from other series, but I imagine this might be taken to the next level).

 

All in all, one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. Best aspects: the characters, the complex and intricately woven threads of plot and IT IS FINISHED!

 

Royal intrigue, wretched betrayals, tests of loyalty, a sprinkling of magic, pirates, dragons (oh the dragons), talking ships, three dimensional characters (even those that may only be minor, perhaps just a page or two), castles, sea battles, intrigue, mysterious sea serpents, a battle against flesh and blood (but one side having lost all humanity), love, patience, beauty, brutality, nature...both of the world at large and a deeper exploration of the inner person...

 

This series changed my life, and it is exceptional. And probably unfilmable. Which is why A Song Of Ice And Fire is so well known whilst series like this, whilst still massive sellers, fall beneath the radar somewhat.

 

Oh, and best of all? It is very different to Tolkien. Refreshing and intense literary fantasy.

 

Alright lol I’ll give it a shot. You recommend starting with book 1 trilogy 1?

 

Oh yes! The first trilogy is amazing. The second...you feel as if you are starting a whole new other series and then the third brings elements of both together and IT WORKS!!!

 

Book one is called The Assassin's Apprentice. Go to any bookstore, you will find that Robin Hobb tends to have a huge shelf almost all to herself!

[pjbear05]

Never Grow Up, by Jackie Chan.

[Entre_Perpetuo]

A little embarrassing, but I've been nibbling my way through lotr for the better part of the past few years. Anyway I've been on Return Of The King for months, and finally over the past few days I've sat myself down and started plowing through it. At last earlier this afternoon I reached Mt. Doom, and now I've stopped again with four chapters left in the whole trilogy, most of the action seemingly abided. I can say without a doubt lotr has been the greatest story I've ever read, especially including The Hobbit and The Simarillion, but I will be glad to turn my attention to other great works in this genre, and other great works in general. It's been years since I finished the first book of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice (or is it Ice and Fire), A Game of Thrones. I should be happy to pick up with A Clash of Kings once I'm finished with Tolkien's trilogy. Or perhaps I shall turn to C.S. Lewis' works. Or perhaps even borrow the Harry Potter books from my sisters. It seems to me I'm on the brink of being able to read freely and frequently for the first time since early high school. How enchanting.

 

Does it show I've been reading Tolkien? lol

 

Please listen to me. Skip all those and go straight to Robin Hobb. I will link you to an article later to whet your appetite. Then you can thank me later!

 

Robin Hobb? Never heard of it, but you seem so enthusiastic I’m intrigued. I’ve still got a day or two more before I finish off Return Of The King, so be my guest with the link!

 

https://writerscuppabrew.wordpress.com/2018/08/17/16-reasons-the-next-author-you-pick-up-is-robin-hobb/

 

Pirates and assassins I’m on board with. Character development awesome as well. The many points about equal representation I of course am more than glad to see, but don’t really tell me enough about the quality of the storytelling or plot to entice me. I will look for one of her books next time I’m at the library or bookstore, but forgive me if I happen to start something else first. Thank you for the recommendation though, I’ve not read much in the way of seafaring literature and would love to read something of the sort.

 

Its five series that unite to create one gigantic tale.

 

In order:

1. The Farseer Trilogy

 

Not a seafaring story, but the tale of the main hero Fitz, as he discovers he is a royal bastard with the task of learning to become a royal assassin. Can talk to animals, which is a feared skill. Amazing...AMAZING trilogy.

 

2. The Liveship Traders Trilogy

 

Set in the same world, for the most part it can be read as a completely seperate entity. Really amazing character development. It starts slow but once it all starts to come together it is phenomenal. Greatest fantasy trilogy I have ever read. It may appear to be seperate from the first trilogy, but both are essential for what comes next. Pirates galore. Seafaring adventures of the highest order, but it has plenty going on on land as well.

 

3. The Tawny Man Trilogy

 

The direct sequel to the first, but much of what happens in this trilogy is directly influenced by the astonishing events and climax of the Liveship Traders. Terrific, you fall absolutely in love with everything about this world for sure by this point (but if you reach this far, you are already well and truly hooked).

 

4. The Rain Wild Chronicles Quartet

 

In some ways a direct sequel to all that came before, but this time with a mostly whole new set of characters. World building galore, plus you learn a lot more about what happened directly after certain events of The Liveship Traders that was merely hinted at in Tawny Man. Slower going, but rich and diverse and indulgent. Currently on book two and it's great. Not as gripping as what came before, but I have been told it adds a lot of important details in preparation for the grand finale which is:

 

5. Fitz And The Fool Trilogy

 

Have yet to start this but my heart is yearning for a return to the characters of The Farseer Trilogy and The Tawny Man Trilogy. Have been told this final trilogy ends the series (entitled in its entirety as "The Realm Of The Elderlings") by drawing together EVERYTHING that came before, travelling the full scope of the series and the world. Will be terrific to see how and what characters interact with each other from across the series (every subsequent series has cameos or full character arcs from other series, but I imagine this might be taken to the next level).

 

All in all, one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. Best aspects: the characters, the complex and intricately woven threads of plot and IT IS FINISHED!

 

Royal intrigue, wretched betrayals, tests of loyalty, a sprinkling of magic, pirates, dragons (oh the dragons), talking ships, three dimensional characters (even those that may only be minor, perhaps just a page or two), castles, sea battles, intrigue, mysterious sea serpents, a battle against flesh and blood (but one side having lost all humanity), love, patience, beauty, brutality, nature...both of the world at large and a deeper exploration of the inner person...

 

This series changed my life, and it is exceptional. And probably unfilmable. Which is why A Song Of Ice And Fire is so well known whilst series like this, whilst still massive sellers, fall beneath the radar somewhat.

 

Oh, and best of all? It is very different to Tolkien. Refreshing and intense literary fantasy.

 

Alright lol I’ll give it a shot. You recommend starting with book 1 trilogy 1?

 

Oh yes! The first trilogy is amazing. The second...you feel as if you are starting a whole new other series and then the third brings elements of both together and IT WORKS!!!

 

Book one is called The Assassin's Apprentice. Go to any bookstore, you will find that Robin Hobb tends to have a huge shelf almost all to herself!

 

Wouldn’t you know, I happened to be at Half Price Books earlier and found they only had two of her books, but one of them was book 1 of the first trilogy. I picked it up for one dollar! I’ll let you know once I start it.

[vaportrailer]

Star Island - Carl Hiassen

 

Floridian thriller involving a self-destructive 'starlet', a bodyguard with a weed-whacker prosthesis, and a feral governor.

 

 

See You Again in Pyongyang: A Journey Into Kim Jong Un's North Korea - Travis Jeppesen

 

Well-researched and fascinating look at North Korea from a Western perspective. The author was "the first American to study at a North Korean University" in 2016.

Fun quote:

 

"Pressed for time, [in 1945], two young [American] officers, neither of whom had ever been to Korea or knew anything about the country, were handed a map ripped out of a National Geographic article. They had 30 minutes to divide it." :o

 

[Segue Myles]

A little embarrassing, but I've been nibbling my way through lotr for the better part of the past few years. Anyway I've been on Return Of The King for months, and finally over the past few days I've sat myself down and started plowing through it. At last earlier this afternoon I reached Mt. Doom, and now I've stopped again with four chapters left in the whole trilogy, most of the action seemingly abided. I can say without a doubt lotr has been the greatest story I've ever read, especially including The Hobbit and The Simarillion, but I will be glad to turn my attention to other great works in this genre, and other great works in general. It's been years since I finished the first book of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Fire and Ice (or is it Ice and Fire), A Game of Thrones. I should be happy to pick up with A Clash of Kings once I'm finished with Tolkien's trilogy. Or perhaps I shall turn to C.S. Lewis' works. Or perhaps even borrow the Harry Potter books from my sisters. It seems to me I'm on the brink of being able to read freely and frequently for the first time since early high school. How enchanting.

 

Does it show I've been reading Tolkien? lol

 

Please listen to me. Skip all those and go straight to Robin Hobb. I will link you to an article later to whet your appetite. Then you can thank me later!

 

Robin Hobb? Never heard of it, but you seem so enthusiastic I’m intrigued. I’ve still got a day or two more before I finish off Return Of The King, so be my guest with the link!

 

https://writerscuppabrew.wordpress.com/2018/08/17/16-reasons-the-next-author-you-pick-up-is-robin-hobb/

 

Pirates and assassins I’m on board with. Character development awesome as well. The many points about equal representation I of course am more than glad to see, but don’t really tell me enough about the quality of the storytelling or plot to entice me. I will look for one of her books next time I’m at the library or bookstore, but forgive me if I happen to start something else first. Thank you for the recommendation though, I’ve not read much in the way of seafaring literature and would love to read something of the sort.

 

Its five series that unite to create one gigantic tale.

 

In order:

1. The Farseer Trilogy

 

Not a seafaring story, but the tale of the main hero Fitz, as he discovers he is a royal bastard with the task of learning to become a royal assassin. Can talk to animals, which is a feared skill. Amazing...AMAZING trilogy.

 

2. The Liveship Traders Trilogy

 

Set in the same world, for the most part it can be read as a completely seperate entity. Really amazing character development. It starts slow but once it all starts to come together it is phenomenal. Greatest fantasy trilogy I have ever read. It may appear to be seperate from the first trilogy, but both are essential for what comes next. Pirates galore. Seafaring adventures of the highest order, but it has plenty going on on land as well.

 

3. The Tawny Man Trilogy

 

The direct sequel to the first, but much of what happens in this trilogy is directly influenced by the astonishing events and climax of the Liveship Traders. Terrific, you fall absolutely in love with everything about this world for sure by this point (but if you reach this far, you are already well and truly hooked).

 

4. The Rain Wild Chronicles Quartet

 

In some ways a direct sequel to all that came before, but this time with a mostly whole new set of characters. World building galore, plus you learn a lot more about what happened directly after certain events of The Liveship Traders that was merely hinted at in Tawny Man. Slower going, but rich and diverse and indulgent. Currently on book two and it's great. Not as gripping as what came before, but I have been told it adds a lot of important details in preparation for the grand finale which is:

 

5. Fitz And The Fool Trilogy

 

Have yet to start this but my heart is yearning for a return to the characters of The Farseer Trilogy and The Tawny Man Trilogy. Have been told this final trilogy ends the series (entitled in its entirety as "The Realm Of The Elderlings") by drawing together EVERYTHING that came before, travelling the full scope of the series and the world. Will be terrific to see how and what characters interact with each other from across the series (every subsequent series has cameos or full character arcs from other series, but I imagine this might be taken to the next level).

 

All in all, one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. Best aspects: the characters, the complex and intricately woven threads of plot and IT IS FINISHED!

 

Royal intrigue, wretched betrayals, tests of loyalty, a sprinkling of magic, pirates, dragons (oh the dragons), talking ships, three dimensional characters (even those that may only be minor, perhaps just a page or two), castles, sea battles, intrigue, mysterious sea serpents, a battle against flesh and blood (but one side having lost all humanity), love, patience, beauty, brutality, nature...both of the world at large and a deeper exploration of the inner person...

 

This series changed my life, and it is exceptional. And probably unfilmable. Which is why A Song Of Ice And Fire is so well known whilst series like this, whilst still massive sellers, fall beneath the radar somewhat.

 

Oh, and best of all? It is very different to Tolkien. Refreshing and intense literary fantasy.

 

Alright lol I’ll give it a shot. You recommend starting with book 1 trilogy 1?

 

Oh yes! The first trilogy is amazing. The second...you feel as if you are starting a whole new other series and then the third brings elements of both together and IT WORKS!!!

 

Book one is called The Assassin's Apprentice. Go to any bookstore, you will find that Robin Hobb tends to have a huge shelf almost all to herself!

 

Wouldn’t you know, I happened to be at Half Price Books earlier and found they only had two of her books, but one of them was book 1 of the first trilogy. I picked it up for one dollar! I’ll let you know once I start it.

 

YASSSSSSSSS

 

Some find it a slowburner but I loved it from the start. I have no idea how one person could right that entire sequence of books the way she did. It blows my mind!

[Turbine Freight]

P.G. Wodehouse - Jeeves & Wooster Omnibus Vol 1

[New_World_Man]

The other day I finished this rather long forgotten sci fi book called "starburst" by Frederick Pohl. Very interesting read. Not exactly a page turner as it took me a while to finish but I'm a rather slow reader anyway. It has a strange plot. It's about a scientist who sends eight astronauts(four couples)into space but with no real destination since he made up the name of the planet they were suppose to land on. Lot's of twists and turns. I recommend it mostly for hardcore sci fi fans. Not bad but if I was one I probably would have appreciated it more. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/451203.Starburst

[vaportrailer]

Just finished these two:

 

http://www.goodminds.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/5909.jpg?itok=QZxh0mTf

 

Well-written and researched. Pretty incredible stuff. The guy was a genius and a maniac. One chapter opened with Morrisseau on a bender in a squalid hotel room with a rough-looking prostitute and a blow-up doll. Who said Canadian art was dull?

 

 

His last novel, which is more of a stitched together "failed novel meets memoir" kinda thing.

Certainly not his best, but there are some interesting/revealing autobiographical episodes.

The tone is set nicely on page 3: "being alive is a crock of shit."

:o

[Digital Dad]

I just checked out Roger Daltreys book, "Thank You Mr. Kibblewhite". It's a page turner.

 

Also my partner checked out Michael Chabon's book "Pops" a collection of stories on fatherhood. Theres a chapter called "Be Cool or Be Cast Out"

 

haha

[Turbine Freight]

Jane Austen - Northanger Abbey

[barney_rebel]

[Segue Myles]

Robin Hobb- City Of Dragons (The Realm Of The Elderlings #11; The Rain Wild Chronicles #3)

[Union 5-3992]

[Babycat]

If I've mentioned Samuel Pepys Diary at some point, then I've put it aside for a while - it's a long, long, lonnnng book.

 

So I've gone to The Fog by James Herbert.

[vaportrailer]

If I've mentioned Samuel Pepys Diary at some point, then I've put it aside for a while - it's a long, long, lonnnng book.

 

So I've gone to The Fog by James Herbert.

 

I found the Fog book to be better than the movie, although it had less Adrienne Barbeau. :(

 

[vaportrailer]

 

Hadn't read this in years. This is a non-rhyming translation, thankfully, although the introduction and appendices take longer to read than the book!

Very potent stuff. Khayyam was a rare bird: a skeptic in a Muslim society. He also was a mathematician and astronomer.

(Probably not a book for an alcoholic as many verses extol the virtues of wine and drinking!)

 

Here's a good downbeat example:

 

There was a water drop, it joined the sea,

A speck of dust, it was fused with earth;

What of your entering and leaving this world?

A fly appeared, and disappeared.

 

 

More food for thought:

 

What have you to do with Being, friend,

And empty opinions on the notion of mind and spirit?

Joyfully live and let the world pass happily,

The beginning of the matter was not arranged with you in mind.

 

 

One more for the road:

 

We are the puppets and the firmament is the puppet-master,

In actual fact and not as a metaphor;

For a time we acted on this stage,

We went back one by one into the box of oblivion.

 

:ebert: :cheers:

Edited January 18, 2019 by vaportrailer

[Weakly Criminal]

Currently re-readimg 'worlds in collision' by Imanuel Velikovsky.

[JARG]

If I've mentioned Samuel Pepys Diary at some point, then I've put it aside for a while - it's a long, long, lonnnng book.

 

So I've gone to The Fog by James Herbert.

 

I found the Fog book to be better than the movie, although it had less Adrienne Barbeau. :(

 

 

Whoa, Adrienne Barbeau has a face?! ;)

[Planet X-1]

 

 

Interesting stuff for sure....

[The Cat 3]

http://prodimage.images-bn.com/pimages/9781451613957_p0_v2_s192x300.jpg