Book Review Times Two - Brandon Sanderson

I've just finished a couple of books I really enjoyed, both by the same author.

"Elantris"

and
"Warbreaker"


both by Brandon Sanderson.  Both of these books fall into the Sci-Fi/Fantasy category which is not usually my thing.  (I'm a huge mystery/suspense/thriller fan.)  BUT, I love anything with good writing, a good plot, and at least a little suspense.   So I make exceptions.  (A lot.)   My other stipulation for giving a book a big thumbs up is that the writer doesn't rely on gratuitous s-e-x to fill the pages or swear too dang much.  (A book I absolutely hate for this reason:  "The Pact" by Jodi Picoult)

These books fit the bill.  Both sucked me in from the very first page and kept me reading.  (Too much, too fast!)  Both have strong characters and well crafted plots and what I call "artistic unity" (which means that everything in the book is in there for a reason) and although they both include swear words, they're made up swear words in a made up language.  So not offensive to me at all!

Now, I must say that "Warbreaker" does include some s-e-x.  Nothing graphic but it is part of the plot: since two characters get married and are supposed to make a baby.  To me, that excludes it from the "gratuitous" category so I don't get all het up about it...but it is in there.

One other thing I don't enjoy in all Sci Fi/Fantasy in general?  Made up nouns.  I like being able to pronounce things and I have no idea what the proper pronunciation is for "T'Telir" or "Susebron".  But, I can never have everything I want.  Even my perfect husband likes Country music, after-all...!  So I try not to be too bugged.

When I started "Elantris", Doug told me I'd be sorry there is no sequel.  He was right.  I was sad to finish it.  Which is why I started "Warbreaker" soon after.  That's my idea of a good story.

Therefore, I highly recommend these books.  Especially "Elantris".

Have you read these books or any others by Brandon Sanderson?  What did you think?
Read anything else I'd love lately?

Hard Times and Holy Places - Book Review and Giveaway

"Trials and difficulties can, if we let them, become holy places — places where we can feel the power of the Atonement in our lives. Our struggles can be consecrated to our good and growth, and you and I can become more like Christ." — Kris Belcher

A few months ago, I received an autographed copy of "Hard Times and Holy Places" written by none other than Kristen Belcher.  MY sister-in-law.  I was extremely excited to read it and devoured it in an afternoon. 

 
My immediate next thought was "I need to do a blog review of this book!"  But then I thought "...but Doug hasn't read it yet.  I should let him read it first.  Cause I want to be able to talk to him about it n' stuff."  So I gave it to Doug and commanded him to read it.  And he did.  Over a period of about two months.   And again I thought "I need to do a review of this book."

THEN I thought, "...but hey, I'm going to Utah in another two months.  I'll wait until I'm there, get a few copies autographed by Kris and do a giveaway!"

Then I went to Utah.  

And saw Kris.  

But I didn't have any copies for her to sign.  

Then I DID go to the bookstore and bought three copies of her book...

but didn't see her again!  

SO, I have a book to give away, but it is NOT signed by the author.  
(sigh)

Now, about the book.  This book...is incredible!!!  It is life changing and thought provoking and funny and spiritual.  I like it even though she left out the chapter all about me.  (I'm sure her editor made her leave it out.)

In case you think I'm biased because I'm related to Kris and I'm just hoping to get another free copy of her next book, here are a few unbiased reviews:

Fabulous Photographer Jen:  "i meant to tell u that i just read ur sis in laws book... kris belcher's hard times and holy places. i LOVED it. since my mom got diagnosed with ALS i have been reading a lot of church books and this was my favorite. i went and bought 2 more and gave one to my mom and one to my friend who just had to give her adopted baby back to total loser parents after having her for almost a year, and then her house burned down a couple weeks ago. she said the title even made her cry. ur sis in law is amazing and i would luv to meet her one day." 

Sister Dahl:  "Kris's book was such an inspiration to me that I read it twice in one weekend!  And it really put into perspective the health issues I've been worrying about.  Kris is my hero!  She must be one of Heavenly Father's very elect to have weathered all her storms with such grace and dignity.  I highly recommend her wonderful book of faith and acceptance and love."

Kim:  (I found this one on the Deseret Book website.)  "This book was so amazing! It gave me the strength to look back at my life and find my own personal Holy places that I didn't realize existed. The author beautifully weaved adversity and testimony into an inspiring and entertaining book. She shows you the way to see your life for what it truly is. A difficult and trying test, yet a rewarding journey. I laughed, I cried and I will certainly read it again."

For more info about the book or Kris, here's her website: 

hardtimesandholyplaces.blogspot.com

WANT A FREE COPY???

LEAVE A COMMENT!!!!!

I'll pick a winner on Sunday August 9th.

The rest of you, BUY A COPY!  

You can thank me later!!!