Pete's bookshelf: all en-US Mon, 28 Oct 2024 12:46:22 -0700 60 Pete's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[The House at Pooh Corner (Winnie-the-Pooh, #2)]]> 776407 180 A.A. Milne 0525444440 Pete 3 4.37 1928 The House at Pooh Corner (Winnie-the-Pooh, #2)
author: A.A. Milne
name: Pete
average rating: 4.37
book published: 1928
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2024/10/28
shelves:
review:

]]> Sabbat Crusade 23344376
The First Edition of Sabbat Crusade is presented in a large format premium hardback contained within a camouflaged slipcase with Tanith iconography. The hardback itself features stunning new artwork from award winning artist Raymond Swanland, and the pages of the book are black-edged with a matching satin market ribbon. Inside, the book also features a unique, internal colour section depicting characters from the anthology.]]> 352 Dan Abnett 1849709297 Pete 0 4.21 2014 Sabbat Crusade
author: Dan Abnett
name: Pete
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at: 2023/07/18
date added: 2023/07/18
shelves: black-library, gaunts-ghosts, science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dark Empire (Star Wars: Dark Empire, #1)]]> 257974 Star Wars franchise is now available in a new edition, with a new cover by Magic the Gathering artist Mark Zug!

Join Luke, Leia, Han, and Chewie as they battle the Empire's latest super-weapons: the gigantic, planet-destroying World Devastators! Six years after the Battle of Endor, the Empire has been reborn, guided by a mysterious new leader. With a price on their heads, our heroes are on the run. Han and Leia struggle to protect their unborn child from the bounty hunters and Imperial troops that dog their steps. But their greatest danger may lie in the troubled heart of a hero--as Luke succumbs to the lure of the dark side!

]]> 32 Tom Veitch 1569710732 Pete 3 3.54 1993 Dark Empire (Star Wars: Dark Empire, #1)
author: Tom Veitch
name: Pete
average rating: 3.54
book published: 1993
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2022/02/24
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay: A Grim World of Perilous Adventure (Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay)]]> 1740093 368 Richard Halliwell 1869893026 Pete 4 4.10 1986 Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay: A Grim World of Perilous Adventure (Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay)
author: Richard Halliwell
name: Pete
average rating: 4.10
book published: 1986
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2020/09/14
shelves:
review:

]]> World War Hulk 2442299 276 Peter David 1905239777 Pete 4 comics-graphic-novels 3.87 World War Hulk
author: Peter David
name: Pete
average rating: 3.87
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2019/09/26
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 2]]> 1137858 336 Mark Miller 0785128565 Pete 3 3.78 2003 Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 2
author: Mark Miller
name: Pete
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2003
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2019/05/21
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 4 (Ultimate X-Men 4)]]> 8561995 COLLECTING:
Ultimate X-Men #34-45]]> 304 Brian Michael Bendis 0785149236 Pete 4 3.95 Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 4 (Ultimate X-Men 4)
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.95
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2019/05/21
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 3]]> 6697587
Collecting Ultimate X-Men #26-33, Ultimate War 1-4.]]> 312 Mark Millar 0785141871 Pete 4 3.80 2003 Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 3
author: Mark Millar
name: Pete
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2019/05/21
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Incredible Hulk: Planet Hulk]]> 2395029 416 Greg Pak 0785120122 Pete 5 comics-graphic-novels 4.22 2007 The Incredible Hulk: Planet Hulk
author: Greg Pak
name: Pete
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2019/01/07
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man: Ultimate Collection Book 2]]> 6893933
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 13-27]]> 336 Brian Michael Bendis 0785128867 Pete 4 4.26 2002 Ultimate Spider-Man: Ultimate Collection Book 2
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2002
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2018/09/26
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man: Ultimate Collection, Book 3]]> 8570270 COLLECTING: Ultimate Spider-Man #28-39, 1/2]]> 296 Brian Michael Bendis 0785149198 Pete 4 4.18 2003 Ultimate Spider-Man: Ultimate Collection, Book 3
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2018/09/26
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> Witchsign (Ashen Torment, #1) 37803483
It has been seventy-five years since the dragons� rule of fire and magic was ended. Out of the ashes, the Solmindre Empire was born.

Since then, the tyrannical Synod has worked hard to banish all manifestations of the arcane from existence. However, children are still born bearing the taint of the arcane, known to all as witchsign. Vigilants are sent out across the continent of Vinterkveld to find and capture all those bearing the mark.

No one knows when the Vigilants of the Synod will appear and enforce the Empire’s laws.

But today they’re coming.

And gods help those who bear the sign of the witch.]]> 464 Den Patrick 0008228132 Pete 0 to-read 3.91 2018 Witchsign (Ashen Torment, #1)
author: Den Patrick
name: Pete
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2018/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Iron Ghost (The Copper Cat, #2)]]> 23451034
Wydrin of Crosshaven, Sir Sebastian and Lord Aaron Frith are experienced in the perils of stirring up the old gods. They are also familiar with defeating them, and the heroes of Baneswatch are now enjoying the perks of suddenly being very much in demand for their services.

When a job comes up in the distant city of Skaldshollow, it looks like easy coin - retrieve a stolen item, admire the views, get paid. But in a place twisted and haunted by ancient magic, with the most infamous mage of them all, Joah Demonsworn, making a reappearance, our heroes soon find themselves threatened by enemies on all sides, old and new. And in the frozen mountains, the stones are walking...]]> 544 Jen Williams 1472211138 Pete 4 4.10 2015 The Iron Ghost (The Copper Cat, #2)
author: Jen Williams
name: Pete
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2015/04/02
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Copper Promise (The Copper Cat, #1)]]> 18667112
Some say the mages left their most dangerous secrets hidden there; others, that great riches are hidden there; even that gods have been imprisoned in its darkest depths.

For Lord Frith, the caverns hold the key to his vengeance. Against all the odds, he has survived torture and lived to see his home and his family taken from him � and now someone is going to pay. For Wydrin of Crosshaven and her faithful companion, Sir Sebastian Caverson, a quest to the Citadel looks like just another job. There’s the promise of gold and adventure. Who knows, they might even have a decent tale or two once they’re done.

But sometimes there is truth in rumour.

Soon this reckless trio will be the last line of defence against a hungry, restless terror that wants to tear the world apart. And they’re not even getting paid.]]> 535 Jen Williams 1472211111 Pete 4 3.61 2014 The Copper Promise (The Copper Cat, #1)
author: Jen Williams
name: Pete
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2015/04/02
shelves:
review:

]]> Starborn (Worldmaker, #1) 21416669 Death and destruction will bar her way...

Kyndra's fate holds betrayal and salvation, but the journey starts in her small village. On the day she comes of age, she accidentally disrupts an ancient ceremony, ending centuries of tradition. So when an unnatural storm targets her superstitious community, Kyndra is blamed. She fears for her life until two strangers save her, by wielding powers not seen for an age - powers fuelled by the sun and the moon.

Together, they flee to the hidden citadel of Naris. And here, Kyndra experiences disturbing visions of the past, showing war and one man's terrifying response. She'll learn more in the city's subterranean chambers, amongst fanatics and rebels. But first Kyndra will be brutally tested in a bid to unlock her own magic.

If she survives the ordeal, she'll discover a force greater than she could ever have imagined. But could it create as well as destroy? And can she control it, to right an ancient wrong?

Book One of the Worldmaker Trilogy]]> 400 Lucy Hounsom 1447268458 Pete 0 to-read 3.81 2015 Starborn (Worldmaker, #1)
author: Lucy Hounsom
name: Pete
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2015/04/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Boy who Wept Blood (Erebus Sequence, #2)]]> 23524820 The Boy With The Porcelain Blade.

With his rich evocation of the Italian Renaissance-like realm of Landfall, his uniquely appealing way with flawed yet empathic characters and his ability to write gripping scenes of both action and subterfuge, Den Patrick has already established himself as a new favourite for fans of Scott Lynch and Robin Hobb alike.

Ten years have passed since the disappearence of Lucien and his protege, the young swordsman Dino, is struggling to live up to Lucien's legacy. Sworn to protect the silent queen Anea as she struggles to bring a new democracy to Demesne, Dino finds himself drawn into a deadly game of political intrigue as the aristocratic families of Landfall conspire to protect their privilege. Always ready to prove himself as a swordsman Dino is anguished to discover that in order to fulfil his vow he must become both spy and assassion.

And all the while the dark secret at the heart of Demesne is growing towards fulfilment.]]> 416 Den Patrick Pete 4 3.80 2015 The Boy who Wept Blood (Erebus Sequence, #2)
author: Den Patrick
name: Pete
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2015/04/02
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Boy with the Porcelain Blade (Erebus Sequence, #1)]]> 19106050
Lucien de Fontein has grown up different. One of the mysterious and misshapen Orfano who appear around the Kingdom of Landfall, he is a talented fighter yet constantly lonely, tormented by his deformity, and well aware that he is a mere pawn in a political game. Ruled by an insane King and the venomous Majordomo, it is a world where corruption and decay are deeply rooted - but to a degree Lucien never dreams possible when he first discovers the plight of the 'insane' women kept in the haunting Sanatoria.

Told in a continuous narrative interspersed with flashbacks we see Lucien grow up under the care of his tutors. We watch him forced through rigorous Testings, and fall in love, set against his yearning to discover where he comes from, and how his fate is tied to that of every one of the deformed Orfano in the Kingdom, and of the eerie Sanatoria itself.]]> 336 Den Patrick 057513397X Pete 4 3.30 2014 The Boy with the Porcelain Blade (Erebus Sequence, #1)
author: Den Patrick
name: Pete
average rating: 3.30
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2015/04/02
shelves:
review:

]]> Nemi - Vol. 4 (Nemi #4) 8907129
Lise Myhre har opplevd en enestĂĄende suksess med Nemi-serien. Fra en sped start med det som tilsynelatende var en smal serie om, for og med svartkledde unge mennesker i 1997, har Nemi og hennes venninne Cyan vunnet stadig flere hjerter.
Serien slo naturlig nok først an i Norge, men er også meget populær i våre naboland. Per i dag publiseres serien daglig i mer enn 125 aviser/nettsteder i et ti-talls land, og Nemi-bøker utgis i Sverige, Finland, Danmark, Tyskland, Spania, Italia, England og USA.

Den norske bokserien samler alt som er laget om og med Nemi, kronologisk og med Lises egne kommentarer, og mye av materialet er nyfargelagt spesielt for bøkene. ]]> 144 Lise Myhre 1845765893 Pete 4 comic-strips 4.37 2006 Nemi - Vol. 4 (Nemi #4)
author: Lise Myhre
name: Pete
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2014/12/14
shelves: comic-strips
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Slow Regard of Silent Things (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #2.5)]]> 21535271
Her name is Auri, and she is full of mysteries.

The Slow Regard of Silent Things is a brief, bittersweet glimpse of Auri’s life, a small adventure all her own. At once joyous and haunting, this story offers a chance to see the world through Auri’s eyes. And it gives the reader a chance to learn things that only Auri knows...

In this book, Patrick Rothfuss brings us into the world of one of The Kingkiller Chronicle’s most enigmatic characters. Full of secrets and mysteries, The Slow Regard of Silent Things is the story of a broken girl trying to live in a broken world.


AUTHOR’S FOREWORD

You might not want to buy this book.

I know, that’s not the sort of thing an author is supposed to say. The marketing people aren’t going to like this. My editor is going to have a fit. But I’d rather be honest with you right out of the gate.

First, if you haven’t read my other books, you don’t want to start here.

My first two books are The Name of the Wind and The Wise Man’s Fear. If you’re curious to try my writing, start there. They’re the best introduction to my world. This book deals with Auri, one of the characters from that series. Without the context of those books, you’re probably going to feel pretty lost.

Second, even if you have read my other books, I think it’s only fair to warn you that this is a bit of a strange story. I don’t go in for spoilers, but suffice to say that this one is ... different. It doesn’t do a lot of the things a classic story is supposed to do. And if you’re looking for a continuation of Kvothe’s storyline, you’re not going to find it here.

On the other hand, if you’d like to learn more about Auri, this story has a lot to offer. If you love words and mysteries and secrets. If you’re curious about the Underthing and alchemy. If you want to know more about the hidden turnings of my world...

Well, then this book might be for you.

]]> 159 Patrick Rothfuss 0756410436 Pete 5 fantasy 3.88 2014 The Slow Regard of Silent Things (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #2.5)
author: Patrick Rothfuss
name: Pete
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2014/11/25
shelves: fantasy
review:

]]> Lightning Tower / Dark King 3983793 32 Dan Abnett 184416540X Pete 3 3.97 2007 Lightning Tower / Dark King
author: Dan Abnett
name: Pete
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2007
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2014/10/05
shelves:
review:

]]> µţĂŞłŮ±đ 19383382
It began when the animal right movement injected domestic animals with artificial intelligences in bid to have the status of animals realigned by the international court of human rights. But what is an animal that can talk? Where does its intelligence end at its machine intelligence begin? And where might its soul reside.

As we place more and more pressure on the natural world and become more and more divorced Adam Roberts' new novel posits a world where nature can talk back, and can question us and our beliefs.

Roberts is an award winning author at the peak of his powers and each new novel charts an exciting new direction while maintaining a uniformly high level of literary achievement.]]> 312 Adam Roberts 0575127686 Pete 0 to-read 3.67 2014 µţĂŞłŮ±đ
author: Adam Roberts
name: Pete
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2014/09/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Steelheart (Reckoners, #1) 17727802
Nobody fights the Epics... nobody but the Reckoners. A shadowy group of ordinary humans, they spend their lives studying Epics, finding their weaknesses, and then assassinating them.

And David wants in. He wants Steelheart—the Epic who is said to be invincible. The Epic who killed David's father. For years, like the Reckoners, David's been studying, and planning—and he has something they need. Not an object, but an experience.

He's seen Steelheart bleed. And he wants revenge.]]> 386 Brandon Sanderson 057510399X Pete 0 to-read 4.06 2013 Steelheart (Reckoners, #1)
author: Brandon Sanderson
name: Pete
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2014/09/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Hercules: Prince of Power 1921784 Collects Hercules: Prince of Power (1982) #1-4, and Hercules: Prince of Power (1984) #1-4.]]> 96 Bob Layton 0871353652 Pete 3 comics-graphic-novels 4.18 1988 Hercules: Prince of Power
author: Bob Layton
name: Pete
average rating: 4.18
book published: 1988
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2014/07/26
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Darkblade: Throne of Blood (Warhammer) (Darkblade Graphic Novel, #3)]]> 2045651 96 Dan Abnett 1841542415 Pete 4 3.90 Darkblade: Throne of Blood (Warhammer) (Darkblade Graphic Novel, #3)
author: Dan Abnett
name: Pete
average rating: 3.90
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2014/07/02
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Trial, Metamorphosis and In the Penal Colony: Three theatre adaptations from Franz Kafka]]> 11512767 Excellent Book 144 Steven Berkoff Pete 4 3.58 1981 The Trial, Metamorphosis and In the Penal Colony: Three theatre adaptations from Franz Kafka
author: Steven Berkoff
name: Pete
average rating: 3.58
book published: 1981
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2014/03/09
shelves:
review:

]]> Infestation 12622797 260 Dan Abnett 1613771061 Pete 3 3.32 2012 Infestation
author: Dan Abnett
name: Pete
average rating: 3.32
book published: 2012
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2014/02/26
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Wise Man's Fear (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #2)]]> 1215032 There are three things all wise men fear: the sea in storm, a night with no moon, and the anger of a gentle man.�

My name is Kvothe.
I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings. I burned down the town of Trebon. I have spent the night with Felurian and left with both my sanity and my life. I was expelled from the University at a younger age than most people are allowed in. I tread paths by moonlight that others fear to speak of during day. I have talked to Gods, loved women, and written songs that make the minstrels weep.
You may have heard of me.

So begins the tale of a hero told from his own point of view � a story unequaled in fantasy literature. Now in The Wise Man's Fear, an escalating rivalry with a powerful member of the nobility forces Kvothe to leave the University and seek his fortune abroad. Adrift, penniless, and alone, he travels to Vintas, where he quickly becomes entangled in the politics of courtly society. While attempting to curry favor with a powerful noble, Kvothe uncovers an assassination attempt, comes into conflict with a rival arcanist, and leads a group of mercenaries into the wild, in an attempt to solve the mystery of who (or what) is waylaying travelers on the King's Road.

All the while, Kvothe searches for answers, attempting to uncover the truth about the mysterious Amyr, the Chandrian, and the death of his parents. Along the way, Kvothe is put on trial by the legendary Adem mercenaries, is forced to reclaim the honor of the Edema Ruh, and travels into the Fae realm. There he meets Felurian, the faerie woman no man can resist, and who no man has ever survived ... until Kvothe.

In The Wise Man's Fear, Kvothe takes his first steps on the path of the hero and learns how difficult life can be when a man becomes a legend in his own time.

]]> 994 Patrick Rothfuss 0756404738 Pete 5 fantasy 4.55 2011 The Wise Man's Fear (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #2)
author: Patrick Rothfuss
name: Pete
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at: 2014/02/19
date added: 2014/02/25
shelves: fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Brave New World and Brave New World Revisited]]> 5479 Brave New World, originally published in 1932, presents Aldous Huxley's vision of the future--of a world utterly transformed. Through the most efficient scientific and psychological engineering, people are genetically designed to be passive and therefore consistently useful to the ruling class. This powerful work of speculative fiction sheds a blazing critical light on the present and is considered to be Aldous Huxley's most enduring masterpiece.

The non-fiction work Brave New World Revisited, published in 1958, is a fascinating work in which Huxley uses his tremendous knowledge of human relations to compare the modern-day world with his prophetic fantasy envisioned in Brave New World, including the threats to humanity, such as over-population, propaganda, and chemical persuasion.]]> 340 Aldous Huxley 0060776099 Pete 4 4.17 1958 Brave New World and Brave New World Revisited
author: Aldous Huxley
name: Pete
average rating: 4.17
book published: 1958
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2014/01/29
shelves:
review:

]]> Scars (The Horus Heresy, #28) 18143803
Fresh from their conquest of Chondax and the discovery of Horus’s rebellion, Jaghatai Khan’s warriors stand divided. Long considered one of the less trustworthy Legions, many of the White Scars claim to owe their loyalty exclusively to Terra, and others still to the Warmaster and his warrior lodges. But when a distress call from Leman Russ of the Space Wolves brings the wrath of the Alpha Legion to Chondax, the Khan’s hand is forced and the decision must be made � in the great war for the Imperium, will he side with the Emperor or Horus?]]> 416 Chris Wraight 1849706042 Pete 4
One of the strengths of the series is how the same events can be told from several different viewpoints and yet still seem fresh each time. With Scars, Chris has exploited the rules of the universe to maximise this effect. The White Scars have been on campaign on the planet Chondax, far removed from their brother legions and cut off from interstellar communication by a warp anomaly. As the Heresy unfolds elsewhere, eventually they will have to learn the truth behind what’s happening and decide whose side they’re on.

The scope of the book is pretty big, portraying the White Scars both from within and without. This necessitates a wide variety of viewpoints, each of which is well realised and has a distinctive tone.

From outside the legion we see them mused upon by the key players on the side of the Emperor on Terra � Rogal Dorn, Malcador and Constantin Valdor � and by the beleaguered Space Wolves fleet who are calling on them for aid. A slightly-removed view is provided by the White Scar Stormseer, Yesugei, as he tries to re-establish contact with his brothers in the Scars� fleet from their homeworld, Chogoris. His scenes early on tend to be more reflective, giving the reader a grounding in the legion’s past without indulging in too much exposition.

The internal viewpoints though are the most rewarding. The prologue introduces us to Shiban and Torghun as they are elevated into the legion’s ranks. By the time of the novel proper they have risen to become Khans of their respective warrior brotherhoods and provide a window on how the White Scars operate, and their own history shapes the dramatic tension of their story threads.

A human view is provided by Ilya Ravallion, a logistical officer assigned to the White Scars fleet, in both her attempts to understand the legion and in her discourse with the upper echelons of the legion including their Primarch, Jagatai Khan, who is the lifeblood of the novel, and whose story this really is.

The characterisation is strong throughout and for a story with a sizable cast list that’s no mean feat. Jagatai, though, really stands out and watching him deal with revelation after revelation and myriad truths is a delight. He is certainly a protagonist deserving of the reader’s sympathy.

As a first proper look at the White Scars, Scars does a great job of fleshing out the legion. Their Mongol influences are clear, but they are delivered so assuredly that it doesn’t feel forced. Clearly a lot of research has been done, and the author’s passion for the subject shines through. Chris also plays on the fact that they’ve been neglected before now by turning it into an elusiveness which is both integral to how the legion operates and affects the way they’re seen in-universe, which is a really nice touch.

Structurally the story is an interesting one, due in no small part to its initial episodic publication. In the early chapters there seems to be some redundant exposition, possibly there to serve as a recap of previous events, but in the joined-up novel format it feels unnecessary. Similarly at the end it seems that things are being wrapped up rather too quickly, which perhaps would have been done in a more measured way if not restrained by the original format.

One thing that jarred a little was that the Space Wolves narrative is only followed for the first half of the book. It’s so well done, and the characters are suitably enjoyable, that I wanted to know what happened to them afterwards. One for a future book perhaps?

However, to say these are major issues would be to do the rest of the book a disservice. The pacing is excellent and the cliff-hangers and revelations at the end of each chapter make it very hard to put down. Chris’s prose is very easy to read and just flows off the page without getting bogged down in jargon and laboured description.

His action scenes in particular are a joy. There are several scenes of ship-to-ship void war which are beautifully described, giving a cinematic sense of scale and manoeuvre. There’s an economy of language that really lets the imagination fill in the blanks.

It does occasionally fall into the realms of cliché, however. More than once do we see a decisive nick-of-time intervention, particularly in the final act, and the story is helped along by a convenient all-knowing character. Again, these are minor issues as the rest of the story is so strong, and despite an element of predictability, there are enough surprises to keep it interesting.

Scars is an absolute pleasure to read. It’s fast and engaging, and in Jagatai Khan, Chris has enhanced a character I knew very little about and made him absolutely compelling. There are many subtleties to the story too, which many readers will find rewarding. I particularly enjoyed the theme of the game Go which appears both literally in the story, and is reflected in the action. It’s an interesting parallel story to the opening trilogy of the series too, and as such is essential Horus Heresy reading.

For more of my reviews, visit ]]> 4.10 2014 Scars (The Horus Heresy, #28)
author: Chris Wraight
name: Pete
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2014/01/23
date added: 2014/01/24
shelves: black-library, horus-heresy, science-fiction
review:
Originally published in the form of weekly episodes, the twenty-eighth book in the hugely successful Horus Heresy series turns the focus on the White Scars legion of Space Marines. Until this book, the White Scars have been the forgotten legion, with less screen-time in the series than any of the other Marine forces. That oversight is redressed in Scars where they are cast front and centre.

One of the strengths of the series is how the same events can be told from several different viewpoints and yet still seem fresh each time. With Scars, Chris has exploited the rules of the universe to maximise this effect. The White Scars have been on campaign on the planet Chondax, far removed from their brother legions and cut off from interstellar communication by a warp anomaly. As the Heresy unfolds elsewhere, eventually they will have to learn the truth behind what’s happening and decide whose side they’re on.

The scope of the book is pretty big, portraying the White Scars both from within and without. This necessitates a wide variety of viewpoints, each of which is well realised and has a distinctive tone.

From outside the legion we see them mused upon by the key players on the side of the Emperor on Terra � Rogal Dorn, Malcador and Constantin Valdor � and by the beleaguered Space Wolves fleet who are calling on them for aid. A slightly-removed view is provided by the White Scar Stormseer, Yesugei, as he tries to re-establish contact with his brothers in the Scars� fleet from their homeworld, Chogoris. His scenes early on tend to be more reflective, giving the reader a grounding in the legion’s past without indulging in too much exposition.

The internal viewpoints though are the most rewarding. The prologue introduces us to Shiban and Torghun as they are elevated into the legion’s ranks. By the time of the novel proper they have risen to become Khans of their respective warrior brotherhoods and provide a window on how the White Scars operate, and their own history shapes the dramatic tension of their story threads.

A human view is provided by Ilya Ravallion, a logistical officer assigned to the White Scars fleet, in both her attempts to understand the legion and in her discourse with the upper echelons of the legion including their Primarch, Jagatai Khan, who is the lifeblood of the novel, and whose story this really is.

The characterisation is strong throughout and for a story with a sizable cast list that’s no mean feat. Jagatai, though, really stands out and watching him deal with revelation after revelation and myriad truths is a delight. He is certainly a protagonist deserving of the reader’s sympathy.

As a first proper look at the White Scars, Scars does a great job of fleshing out the legion. Their Mongol influences are clear, but they are delivered so assuredly that it doesn’t feel forced. Clearly a lot of research has been done, and the author’s passion for the subject shines through. Chris also plays on the fact that they’ve been neglected before now by turning it into an elusiveness which is both integral to how the legion operates and affects the way they’re seen in-universe, which is a really nice touch.

Structurally the story is an interesting one, due in no small part to its initial episodic publication. In the early chapters there seems to be some redundant exposition, possibly there to serve as a recap of previous events, but in the joined-up novel format it feels unnecessary. Similarly at the end it seems that things are being wrapped up rather too quickly, which perhaps would have been done in a more measured way if not restrained by the original format.

One thing that jarred a little was that the Space Wolves narrative is only followed for the first half of the book. It’s so well done, and the characters are suitably enjoyable, that I wanted to know what happened to them afterwards. One for a future book perhaps?

However, to say these are major issues would be to do the rest of the book a disservice. The pacing is excellent and the cliff-hangers and revelations at the end of each chapter make it very hard to put down. Chris’s prose is very easy to read and just flows off the page without getting bogged down in jargon and laboured description.

His action scenes in particular are a joy. There are several scenes of ship-to-ship void war which are beautifully described, giving a cinematic sense of scale and manoeuvre. There’s an economy of language that really lets the imagination fill in the blanks.

It does occasionally fall into the realms of cliché, however. More than once do we see a decisive nick-of-time intervention, particularly in the final act, and the story is helped along by a convenient all-knowing character. Again, these are minor issues as the rest of the story is so strong, and despite an element of predictability, there are enough surprises to keep it interesting.

Scars is an absolute pleasure to read. It’s fast and engaging, and in Jagatai Khan, Chris has enhanced a character I knew very little about and made him absolutely compelling. There are many subtleties to the story too, which many readers will find rewarding. I particularly enjoyed the theme of the game Go which appears both literally in the story, and is reflected in the action. It’s an interesting parallel story to the opening trilogy of the series too, and as such is essential Horus Heresy reading.

For more of my reviews, visit
]]> <![CDATA[Captain Britain And MI13, Vol. 3: Vampire State]]> 6811442 122 Paul Cornell 0785139524 Pete 4 3.84 2009 Captain Britain And MI13, Vol. 3: Vampire State
author: Paul Cornell
name: Pete
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2014/01/14
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Captain Britain And MI13, Vol. 2: Hell Comes To Birmingham]]> 6541601 120 Paul Cornell 0785133453 Pete 4 3.71 2009 Captain Britain And MI13, Vol. 2: Hell Comes To Birmingham
author: Paul Cornell
name: Pete
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2014/01/14
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Captain Britain and MI13, Vol. 1: Secret Invasion]]> 5804930 Secret Invasion hits the U.K., and only Captain Britain and MI:13 stand in the Skrulls' way!

The shape-shifting aliens' mysterious goal in England could turn the tide of battle worldwide, but the emergence of the fabled sword Excalibur � once again locked in stone � may lead to salvation. But who can claim the mythic weapon? Pete Wisdom? Spitfire? John the Skrull? The Black Knight?

It's science fiction vs. fantasy as the war machines of the unstoppable Skrull army invade the magical realm of Avalon. Can Pete Wisdom and the rest of MI:13 keep the Skrulls from taking control of the world's magic? Will this be our heroes finest hour? Or has the sun finally set on the British Isles?

Collecting Captain Britain and MI: 13 #1-4 � written by Paul Cornell (Wisdom) and illustrated by Leonard Kirk (Agents of Atlas) � plus a classic Captain Britain tale from Marvel Team-Up #65-66 (1978) by Chris Claremont and John Byrne.]]> 136 Paul Cornell 0785133445 Pete 3 3.69 2008 Captain Britain and MI13, Vol. 1: Secret Invasion
author: Paul Cornell
name: Pete
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2008
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2014/01/14
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Name of the Wind (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #1)]]> 186074
The intimate narrative of his childhood in a troupe of traveling players, his years spent as a near-feral orphan in a crime-ridden city, his daringly brazen yet successful bid to enter a legendary school of magic, and his life as a fugitive after the murder of a king form a gripping coming-of-age story unrivaled in recent literature.

A high-action story written with a poet's hand, The Name of the Wind is a masterpiece that will transport readers into the body and mind of a wizard.]]> 662 Patrick Rothfuss 075640407X Pete 5 fantasy 4.52 2007 The Name of the Wind (The Kingkiller Chronicle, #1)
author: Patrick Rothfuss
name: Pete
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at: 2013/11/26
date added: 2014/01/08
shelves: fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rivers of London (Rivers of London, #1)]]> 9317452 392 Ben Aaronovitch 0575097566 Pete 4 fantasy 3.83 2011 Rivers of London (Rivers of London, #1)
author: Ben Aaronovitch
name: Pete
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2014/01/02
shelves: fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[City of the Damned (Gotrek & Felix, #14)]]> 17571891 Gotrek & Felix Book 14

Five centuries ago, a great city of the Empire was destroyed by a comet and became a haunted nightmare called the City of the Damned. Though it is long gone, its legacy remains, and through dark magic, Gotrek and Felix are about to experience the horrors it holds�

READ IT BECAUSE
It is, very literally, Gotrek and Felix meets Mordheim. And this tale brings in elements that will haunt the Slayer and his companion in the future, even as they explore the past. Read this before the final two books in the series (also by David Guymer) and you'll see what we mean�

THE STORY
Gotrek and Felix: unsung heroes of the Empire, or nothing more than common thieves and murderers? The truth perhaps lies somewhere in between, and depends entirely upon whom you ask�

Legend tells of the City of the Damned � a dark and forbidding place destroyed in a previous age by the wrath of Sigmar. Long have its fallen towers remained undisturbed by the people of Ostermark, but now an ancient evil stirs in the depths, gathering its strength once more. Gotrek and Felix are swept up in the crusade of Baron Gratz von Kuber to cleanse the city, and as the ruins are torn from the passage of time itself, the Slayer's doom appears to be approaching more quickly than either of them would like.]]> 416 David Guymer 1849705291 Pete 4 black-library, fantasy
During their travels, Dwarf Slayer, Gotrek Gurnison and his human companion, Felix Jaeger, arrive in a village that's been terrorised by a 'beast'. Seeking his doom, as Slayers are wont to do, Gotrek decides to track the beast to its lair in the ruins of a city. It turns out he's not the only one with that idea...

The first thing I’ll say is that David’s descriptive language is a joy to read. There’s a richness there that fleshes out all his locations and characters distinctly, and the similes are varied and very colourful. The settings capture the medieval flavour of the Warhammer Fantasy world beautifully and he’s filled them with a plethora of interesting sights, sounds, smells and people. The highlight of this is his creation of the titular city itself, which oozes atmosphere through every ruined building and dark shadow. You get the feeling that there’s some unknown danger around every turn and it makes for very compelling reading.

A wonderful setting is, of course, no good without some intriguing characters to populate it, and there’s a fairly large and varied cast, all with their own reasons for being in the city. Gotrek and Felix find themselves in league with a group of half-mad flagellants, a band of mercenaries, and Rudi, the last survivor of a village attacked by the beast. Along with Felix, Rudi is a primary point-of-view character and feels suitably fleshed out. Other than them, only the leaders of the flagellants and mercenaries, Nikolaus Straum and Caul Schlanger, get explored in any real depth which is a little bit of a shame, especially as some of the mercenaries seem to have interesting stories to tell.

Arrayed against them are the many and varied denizens of the city, the Damned, and worse. Like the city itself, they’re full of visual character, and David captures the idea of a gribbly swarm of nastiness beautifully.

As for our heroes, Felix is very much the focal point. We see the world mainly through his eyes and he definitely feels like a character resigned to getting caught up in perilous situations � only to be expected as the companion of a slayer. Of course this rational human viewpoint is a necessity alongside the fairly single-minded Gotrek, who feels a little too much like a functional character. I imagine he’s quite a challenge to write as not only is he seemingly capable of defeating any foe, he’s also girded in impenetrable plot armour. He is, though, the main source of comic relief and his banter with Felix frequently lifts the tone of the story.

The narrative for me was a bit of a mixed bag, though there’s a lot to admire. The tension and atmosphere as we follow our protagonists through the city is excellent � as good as any I’ve read in a Warhammer novel. The city scenes are nicely paced and keep the pages turning quickly. The plot, too, takes what seems to be a fairly straightforward premise and layers it up with several subplots � some of which are very intriguing and elevate the complexity of the plot dramatically.

On the downside, this narrative complexity does add to the challenge of following what’s going on, especially in the beast’s point-of-view passages. This is something a reread might help with though as it’s dealt with in an eventual reveal. There are also a lot of perspective shifts from character to character where it isn’t immediately clear who’s been jumped to which did jar a little..

I also had a couple of issues with the overall pacing of the story. The lead-up to them entering the city felt a little laboured, seeming to take a long time to set up the world and the motivations of the characters. The final act, however, almost felt a bit too rushed. Once everything becomes clear the various narrative threads appear to be tied up in very short order. The tension and drama of the fantastic middle act more than makes up for these though.

Gotrek & Felix: City of the Damned is a very enjoyable read. It’s full of Warhammer flavour, in both big themes and small details, yet it doesn’t feel forced, which suggests an author who’s very comfortable with the setting. I can’t compare it to any previous Gotrek & Felix novels so I don’t know how well David’s interpretation of the characters will sit with long-standing fans of the series, though as a standalone novel it’s well worth a read.

For more of my reviews please visit ]]> 3.54 2013 City of the Damned (Gotrek & Felix, #14)
author: David Guymer
name: Pete
average rating: 3.54
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2013/09/22
date added: 2013/10/11
shelves: black-library, fantasy
review:
I feel I must make a confession, dear reader. Despite many years of reading Warhammer fiction I've never read a Gotrek & Felix story before. The closest I've come has been to listen to David Guymer's own audio drama, Curse of the Everliving, which I thoroughly enjoyed. As City of the Damned sits outside the continuity of the main series, it seemed as good a point as any to dive in.

During their travels, Dwarf Slayer, Gotrek Gurnison and his human companion, Felix Jaeger, arrive in a village that's been terrorised by a 'beast'. Seeking his doom, as Slayers are wont to do, Gotrek decides to track the beast to its lair in the ruins of a city. It turns out he's not the only one with that idea...

The first thing I’ll say is that David’s descriptive language is a joy to read. There’s a richness there that fleshes out all his locations and characters distinctly, and the similes are varied and very colourful. The settings capture the medieval flavour of the Warhammer Fantasy world beautifully and he’s filled them with a plethora of interesting sights, sounds, smells and people. The highlight of this is his creation of the titular city itself, which oozes atmosphere through every ruined building and dark shadow. You get the feeling that there’s some unknown danger around every turn and it makes for very compelling reading.

A wonderful setting is, of course, no good without some intriguing characters to populate it, and there’s a fairly large and varied cast, all with their own reasons for being in the city. Gotrek and Felix find themselves in league with a group of half-mad flagellants, a band of mercenaries, and Rudi, the last survivor of a village attacked by the beast. Along with Felix, Rudi is a primary point-of-view character and feels suitably fleshed out. Other than them, only the leaders of the flagellants and mercenaries, Nikolaus Straum and Caul Schlanger, get explored in any real depth which is a little bit of a shame, especially as some of the mercenaries seem to have interesting stories to tell.

Arrayed against them are the many and varied denizens of the city, the Damned, and worse. Like the city itself, they’re full of visual character, and David captures the idea of a gribbly swarm of nastiness beautifully.

As for our heroes, Felix is very much the focal point. We see the world mainly through his eyes and he definitely feels like a character resigned to getting caught up in perilous situations � only to be expected as the companion of a slayer. Of course this rational human viewpoint is a necessity alongside the fairly single-minded Gotrek, who feels a little too much like a functional character. I imagine he’s quite a challenge to write as not only is he seemingly capable of defeating any foe, he’s also girded in impenetrable plot armour. He is, though, the main source of comic relief and his banter with Felix frequently lifts the tone of the story.

The narrative for me was a bit of a mixed bag, though there’s a lot to admire. The tension and atmosphere as we follow our protagonists through the city is excellent � as good as any I’ve read in a Warhammer novel. The city scenes are nicely paced and keep the pages turning quickly. The plot, too, takes what seems to be a fairly straightforward premise and layers it up with several subplots � some of which are very intriguing and elevate the complexity of the plot dramatically.

On the downside, this narrative complexity does add to the challenge of following what’s going on, especially in the beast’s point-of-view passages. This is something a reread might help with though as it’s dealt with in an eventual reveal. There are also a lot of perspective shifts from character to character where it isn’t immediately clear who’s been jumped to which did jar a little..

I also had a couple of issues with the overall pacing of the story. The lead-up to them entering the city felt a little laboured, seeming to take a long time to set up the world and the motivations of the characters. The final act, however, almost felt a bit too rushed. Once everything becomes clear the various narrative threads appear to be tied up in very short order. The tension and drama of the fantastic middle act more than makes up for these though.

Gotrek & Felix: City of the Damned is a very enjoyable read. It’s full of Warhammer flavour, in both big themes and small details, yet it doesn’t feel forced, which suggests an author who’s very comfortable with the setting. I can’t compare it to any previous Gotrek & Felix novels so I don’t know how well David’s interpretation of the characters will sit with long-standing fans of the series, though as a standalone novel it’s well worth a read.

For more of my reviews please visit
]]> <![CDATA[Drakenfeld (Lucan Drakenfeld, #1)]]> 16613978 “I am Lucan Drakenfeld, second son of Calludian, Officer of the Sun Chamber and peace keeper. Although sometimes it seems I am the only person who wishes to keep it …�

The monarchies of the Royal Vispasian Union have been bound together for two hundred years by laws maintained and enforced by the powerful Sun Chamber. As a result, nations have flourished but corruption, deprivation and murder will always find a way to thrive.

Receiving news of his father’s death Sun Chamber Officer Lucan Drakenfeld is recalled home to the ancient city of Tryum and rapidly embroiled in a mystifying case. The King’s sister has been found brutally murdered � her beaten and bloody body discovered in a locked temple. With rumours of dark spirits and political assassination, Drakenfeld has his work cut out for him trying to separate superstition from certainty. His determination to find the killer quickly makes him a target as the underworld gangs of Tryum focus on this new threat to their power.

Embarking on the biggest and most complex investigation of his career, Drakenfeld soon realises the evidence is leading him towards a motive that could ultimately bring darkness to the whole continent. The fate of the nations is in his hands.]]> 429 Mark Charan Newton 023076682X Pete 5 fantasy, mystery
From the very first line, the writing is interesting and very readable. Told in the first-person from Drakenfeld’s point of view, we have a narrator with a wonderful eye for detail and a fairly assured view of the world; though this is nicely tempered by his own physical limitations and a possibly-misplaced faith in both gods and people. The return to his home city after a long time away means the description of the world around him is often based on comparisons with his memories, which helps keep the descriptions natural and it never feels bogged down in exposition.

Further viewpoints are provided by the characters closest to Lucan. Leana, his assistant/bodyguard/confidant, provides an outsider’s view. She’s a strong warrior from outside the Royal Vispasian Union, and with her dark skin an outward sign of difference, she enables a window into the attitudes of Tryum’s elite towards other nations and cultures. She’s also very straight-talking and can more than handle herself in a fight. A wonderful character indeed.

The insider’s view is provided by senator Veron, who is also fun to read. Through him we get to understand the political side of life, and who the movers and shakers of the ruling and military classes are. Being a long-term resident of Tryum, he’s also a useful guide to the more interesting parts of town for Lucan.

Beyond these, the supporting cast is very detailed and believable despite its size. All walks of life seem to be covered from royalty and military leaders down to shopkeepers and street thugs. Each has a distinct voice and the variety of characterisations paints a picture of a well thought out society, and this isn’t all that’s well thought out...

The world building on show is exquisite, and really draws the reader in. The descriptions are full of character and Tryum feels like it could have been lifted straight out of ancient Rome. But even beyond the physical, there’s so much more to it that adds texture. The political system is nicely constructed, right down to its tensions with the military as well as the independence of the Sun Chamber. Religion also plays a major part in life, with a varied pantheon of deities, nicely contrasted with Leana’s more spiritual view of the world. There are even a few hints and whisperings of supernatural happenings and magic, though met with no shortage of scepticism. But none of this is there just for the sake of it. These factors all influence the way various characters behave and interrelate to each other, as well as shaping their attitudes to such things as death and honour.

The plot, the locked room mystery of the King’s sister’s murder, is nicely worked. The intrigue keeps building and building, and is really well paced in the main. The chapters are short and punchy and show the myriad threads that Drakenfeld is trying to follow without getting too heavily ensconced in any of them. I found it very easy to read and a genuine page-turner. It also has that lovely quality of a mystery, that when the reader is sure they’ve got it all worked out, the game changes. This makes for a very compelling read.

My criticisms are few and relatively minor. I did feel that some of the loose ends were tied up a little too quickly and cleanly by the end of the book, though one fantastical thread that really intrigued me was left unresolved, where I would have liked it to be explored a bit further. I fully expect this to play a more prominent part in Drakenfeld’s future excursions though.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Drakenfeld. It’s a cleverly crafted mystery told in a beautiful way. However, what really stood out for me is that beneath this mystery there runs a strong current of engaging human relationships. From Lucan’s relationships with his dead father or with Leana, right up to the King and the people around him, it’s a story very much driven by the emotional ties between its characters. This, in addition to its readability, makes it almost certainly the best book I’ve read this year, and I am looking forward to the next instalment. Highly recommended.

For more of my reviews please visit
]]> 3.49 2013 Drakenfeld (Lucan Drakenfeld, #1)
author: Mark Charan Newton
name: Pete
average rating: 3.49
book published: 2013
rating: 5
read at: 2013/10/08
date added: 2013/10/11
shelves: fantasy, mystery
review:
Drakenfeld is a curious amalgam of fantasy and crime fiction in a world that tastes like ancient Rome. It follows Lucan Drakenfeld, an agent of the Sun Chamber (an organisation tasked with maintaining peace between the various unified nation states � imagine an ancient version of the UN) as he finds his simple homecoming isn’t as straightforward as he expects.

From the very first line, the writing is interesting and very readable. Told in the first-person from Drakenfeld’s point of view, we have a narrator with a wonderful eye for detail and a fairly assured view of the world; though this is nicely tempered by his own physical limitations and a possibly-misplaced faith in both gods and people. The return to his home city after a long time away means the description of the world around him is often based on comparisons with his memories, which helps keep the descriptions natural and it never feels bogged down in exposition.

Further viewpoints are provided by the characters closest to Lucan. Leana, his assistant/bodyguard/confidant, provides an outsider’s view. She’s a strong warrior from outside the Royal Vispasian Union, and with her dark skin an outward sign of difference, she enables a window into the attitudes of Tryum’s elite towards other nations and cultures. She’s also very straight-talking and can more than handle herself in a fight. A wonderful character indeed.

The insider’s view is provided by senator Veron, who is also fun to read. Through him we get to understand the political side of life, and who the movers and shakers of the ruling and military classes are. Being a long-term resident of Tryum, he’s also a useful guide to the more interesting parts of town for Lucan.

Beyond these, the supporting cast is very detailed and believable despite its size. All walks of life seem to be covered from royalty and military leaders down to shopkeepers and street thugs. Each has a distinct voice and the variety of characterisations paints a picture of a well thought out society, and this isn’t all that’s well thought out...

The world building on show is exquisite, and really draws the reader in. The descriptions are full of character and Tryum feels like it could have been lifted straight out of ancient Rome. But even beyond the physical, there’s so much more to it that adds texture. The political system is nicely constructed, right down to its tensions with the military as well as the independence of the Sun Chamber. Religion also plays a major part in life, with a varied pantheon of deities, nicely contrasted with Leana’s more spiritual view of the world. There are even a few hints and whisperings of supernatural happenings and magic, though met with no shortage of scepticism. But none of this is there just for the sake of it. These factors all influence the way various characters behave and interrelate to each other, as well as shaping their attitudes to such things as death and honour.

The plot, the locked room mystery of the King’s sister’s murder, is nicely worked. The intrigue keeps building and building, and is really well paced in the main. The chapters are short and punchy and show the myriad threads that Drakenfeld is trying to follow without getting too heavily ensconced in any of them. I found it very easy to read and a genuine page-turner. It also has that lovely quality of a mystery, that when the reader is sure they’ve got it all worked out, the game changes. This makes for a very compelling read.

My criticisms are few and relatively minor. I did feel that some of the loose ends were tied up a little too quickly and cleanly by the end of the book, though one fantastical thread that really intrigued me was left unresolved, where I would have liked it to be explored a bit further. I fully expect this to play a more prominent part in Drakenfeld’s future excursions though.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Drakenfeld. It’s a cleverly crafted mystery told in a beautiful way. However, what really stood out for me is that beneath this mystery there runs a strong current of engaging human relationships. From Lucan’s relationships with his dead father or with Leana, right up to the King and the people around him, it’s a story very much driven by the emotional ties between its characters. This, in addition to its readability, makes it almost certainly the best book I’ve read this year, and I am looking forward to the next instalment. Highly recommended.

For more of my reviews please visit

]]> Curse of the Everliving 15802994 A Gotrek & Felix audio drama

Gotrek and Felix: unsung heroes of the Empire, or nothing more than common thieves and murderers? The truth perhaps lies somewhere in between, and depends entirely upon whom you ask... While travelling north in pursuit of hobgoblin gold, Gotrek and Felix find themselves holed up in the infamous Castle Bilenkov as guests of the curious Count Viktor. While the old man seems harmless enough, Felix soon finds himself the target of an ancient Kislevite curse, battling for his very soul against the insidious daemon Ghrizzhtadt. With Gotrek's resistance to magic waning, the adventurers have no choice but to confront the eternal evil of the Everliving...

An audio tie-in to the bestselling Warhammer series. Produced by Heavy Entertainment for Black Library. Narrated by Jonathan Keeble. Performed by Gareth Armstrong, Chris Fairbank and David Timson. Music composed by Simon Slater.]]> 1 David Guymer 1849703043 Pete 4 black-library, fantasy 3.56 2013 Curse of the Everliving
author: David Guymer
name: Pete
average rating: 3.56
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2013/03/07
shelves: black-library, fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rogue Trader (Warhammer 40,000)]]> 6335781 272 Rick Priestley 1872372279 Pete 5 4.75 1987 Rogue Trader (Warhammer 40,000)
author: Rick Priestley
name: Pete
average rating: 4.75
book published: 1987
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2013/02/16
shelves:
review:

]]> Nocturne 11493403 416 Nick Kyme 1849700885 Pete 3 3.95 2011 Nocturne
author: Nick Kyme
name: Pete
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/11/05
shelves:
review:

]]> The Infinity Gauntlet 11375796 256 Jim Starlin Pete 0 4.17 1991 The Infinity Gauntlet
author: Jim Starlin
name: Pete
average rating: 4.17
book published: 1991
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2012/07/31
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> The Infinity Gauntlet 398916 256 Jim Starlin 0785123490 Pete 4 to-read 4.09 1991 The Infinity Gauntlet
author: Jim Starlin
name: Pete
average rating: 4.09
book published: 1991
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/31
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 18: Ultimate Knights]]> 429191
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 106-111]]> 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785121366 Pete 4 3.95 2007 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 18: Ultimate Knights
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/31
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 19: Death of a Goblin]]> 2124092 Ultimate X-Men and Ultimate Fantastic Four fame!

Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 112-117]]> 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785121374 Pete 3 4.24 2008 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 19: Death of a Goblin
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2008
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/31
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 20: And His Amazing Friends]]> 4342692 Plus: the return of Omega Red! And the worst day in Peter Parker's life!

Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 118-122]]> 86 Brian Michael Bendis 0785129618 Pete 3 3.84 2008 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 20: And His Amazing Friends
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2008
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/31
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Hyperion (Hyperion Cantos, #1)]]> 77566 500 Dan Simmons 0553283685 Pete 4 science-fiction 4.26 1989 Hyperion (Hyperion Cantos, #1)
author: Dan Simmons
name: Pete
average rating: 4.26
book published: 1989
rating: 4
read at: 2012/07/20
date added: 2012/07/20
shelves: science-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate X-Men, Vol. 10: Cry Wolf]]> 342065
Collecting: Ultimate X-Men 50-53]]> 96 Brian K. Vaughan 078511405X Pete 4 3.63 2005 Ultimate X-Men, Vol. 10: Cry Wolf
author: Brian K. Vaughan
name: Pete
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/18
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate X-Men, Vol. 9: The Tempest]]> 342066
Collecting: Ultimate X-Men 46-49]]> 112 Brian K. Vaughan 0785114041 Pete 3 3.75 2006 Ultimate X-Men, Vol. 9: The Tempest
author: Brian K. Vaughan
name: Pete
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2006
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/18
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 17: Clone Saga]]> 105967
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 97-104]]> 256 Brian Michael Bendis 0785119280 Pete 5 4.16 2007 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 17: Clone Saga
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2012/07/14
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> Avengers, Vol. 2 10502182
Collecting Avengers (2010) 7-12, 12.1]]> 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785145044 Pete 3 3.80 2011 Avengers, Vol. 2
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2011
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/14
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> Siege 7740366

Siege #1-4: The Cabal, Siege Prologue]]> 148 Brian Michael Bendis 1846534526 Pete 4 3.69 2010 Siege
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 10: Hollywood]]> 5641048 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785134379 Pete 3 3.99 2004 Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 10: Hollywood
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 9: Ultimate Six]]> 429193
Why have they been brought together? And who is the mysterious 6th member of this "Sinister Six"? When together they escape and the Green Goblin's horrific scheme becomes clear, it's up to the government's superhuman task force the Ultimates to take them down and bring them back in. But where is Spider-Man when you need him the most?

Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 46 & Ultimate Six 1-7]]> 208 Brian Michael Bendis 0785113126 Pete 4 3.75 2007 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 9: Ultimate Six
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 11: Carnage]]> 105923 Marvel Universe, the fan-favorite Carnage, gets the Ultimate treatment! And though young Peter Parker has proven himself time and time again on the field of battle, can even he hope to defeat this heartless killing machine?

Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 60-65]]> 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785114033 Pete 4 3.96 2007 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 11: Carnage
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 12: Superstars]]> 105914
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 66-71]]> 144 Brian Michael Bendis 078511629X Pete 3 3.70 2005 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 12: Superstars
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 13: Hobgoblin]]> 105930
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 72-78]]> 168 Brian Michael Bendis 0785116478 Pete 3 4.03 2005 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 13: Hobgoblin
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 14: Warriors]]> 105946
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 79-85]]> 184 Brian Michael Bendis 078511680X Pete 4 3.88 2006 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 14: Warriors
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 15: Silver Sable]]> 105958
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 86-90, Annual 1]]> 168 Brian Michael Bendis 0785116818 Pete 4 3.77 2006 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 15: Silver Sable
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 16: Deadpool]]> 21320 Deadpool, Spider-Man teams up with his new girlfriend, X-Men's Kitty Pryde, who gets a new super-hero identity for when she's not hanging around with her mutant mates!

Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 91-96, Annual 2]]> 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785119272 Pete 4 3.67 2006 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 16: Deadpool
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2006
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 1]]> 657992 352 Adam Kubert 0785121870 Pete 4 3.85 2002 Ultimate X-Men Collection, Book 1
author: Adam Kubert
name: Pete
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2002
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: superheroes, comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Guild: Knights of Good (The Guild Collection, #2)]]> 13630153
Featuring a huge variety of comics� best artists as well as many of the talents key to the web series, and leading directly to the moment Zaboo unexpectedly appears at a startled Codex’s front door in episode 1, this collection comprises a true “Season 0� of The Guild!

Collects the one-shots The Guild: Vork, The Guild: Tink, The Guild: Bladezz, The Guild: Clara, and The Guild: Zaboo.

� Written by Felicia Day, with the series director, producer, and actors!

� Featuring art by Darick Robertson, Becky Cloonan, Kristian Donaldson, and more!

� Leads directly into The Guild, Season 1!
]]> 142 Felicia Day 1595829008 Pete 4 comics-graphic-novels, comedy 4.14 2012 The Guild: Knights of Good (The Guild Collection, #2)
author: Felicia Day
name: Pete
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/13
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, comedy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Marvel Team-Up: Ultimate Collection]]> 105959 576 Brian Michael Bendis 078512361X Pete 3 3.23 2002 Ultimate Marvel Team-Up: Ultimate Collection
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.23
book published: 2002
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/12
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> The Diary of a Nobody 535856 176 George Grossmith 0192833278 Pete 4 3.70 1892 The Diary of a Nobody
author: George Grossmith
name: Pete
average rating: 3.70
book published: 1892
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/07/10
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 8: Cats & Kings]]> 429210
Collecting: Ultimate Spider-Man 47-53]]> 184 Brian Michael Bendis 0785112502 Pete 3 3.88 2004 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 8: Cats & Kings
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/02
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Valkia the Bloody (Warhammer Heroes #7)]]> 13259656 A Warhammer Fantasy Battles novel

Warrior-maiden and consort of the blood god Khorne, the name Valkia the Bloody is feared among all the tribes of the north –friend and foe alike. Follow her story from her earliest days to her destiny as the Gorequeen.

READ IT BECAUSE
It's the origins of the most feared of Khorne's servants, the mighty Gorequeen herself. A compelling and nuanced portrait of a fascinating character, in a tale that defines Khorne's service in the Old World.

THE STORY
Warrior-maiden and consort of the blood god Khorne, the name Valkia the Bloody is feared among all the tribes of the north - friend and foe alike. From her earliest days as a shield bearer for her father King Merroc, she has known nothing but unending warfare and the brutal politics of the tribal leaders, and soon reaches out to seize power for herself. Though her feral beauty might attract unlikely suitors and her enemies may plot against her in secret, Valkia holds the patronage of the Ruinous Powers, and Khorne will not allow his chosen queen to fall.]]> 416 Sarah Cawkwell 1849701865 Pete 3 black-library, fantasy 3.92 2012 Valkia the Bloody (Warhammer Heroes #7)
author: Sarah Cawkwell
name: Pete
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2012
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/07/02
shelves: black-library, fantasy
review:

]]> Avengers, Vol. 1 10810999

There came a day! A day unlike any other...when two of Marvel's top creators teamed up for the very first time to create a bombastic new Marvel series that not only ushers in the Heroic Age of Marvel Comics but unleashes onto the world the most blockbuster Avengers team ever! Who will answer the call? And will they assemble just in time...because Kang the Conqueror is here from the future. And wait till you find out why...!

]]> 112 Brian Michael Bendis 078514501X Pete 3 3.52 2010 Avengers, Vol. 1
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2010
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/27
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 7: Irresponsible]]> 105911 Band 5 des gesammelten Nachdrucks von Bendis' und Bagleys ultimativem Spider-Man!

Storys
Ultimate Spider-Man 40-45]]> 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785110925 Pete 3 3.89 2003 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 7: Irresponsible
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2003
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/24
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Deff Skwadron (Warhammer 40,000 Graphic Novel)]]> 2405148 64 Gordon Rennie 1844160696 Pete 3 4.11 2004 Deff Skwadron (Warhammer 40,000 Graphic Novel)
author: Gordon Rennie
name: Pete
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2004
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/23
shelves: black-library, comedy, comics-graphic-novels, science-fiction
review:

]]> Kick-Ass 2 10871925
KICK-ASS is back, just as over-the-top as ever! As everybody's favorite psychotic 11-year-old HIT GIRL trains KICK-ASS to be...well, a bad-ass, RED MIST gathers a team of super-villains to take them down! It's super hero mayhem as only MARK MILLAR and JOHN ROMITA JR. can bring you!

COLLECTING: Kick-Ass 2 #1-7]]> 208 Mark Millar 0785152458 Pete 4 3.86 2012 Kick-Ass 2
author: Mark Millar
name: Pete
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/21
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Emperor's Gift (Warhammer 40,000)]]> 13258964 320 Aaron Dembski-Bowden 1849701903 Pete 0 4.27 2012 The Emperor's Gift (Warhammer 40,000)
author: Aaron Dembski-Bowden
name: Pete
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at: 2012/06/18
date added: 2012/06/18
shelves: black-library, science-fiction
review:

]]> Batman: Year One 920031
Collects BATMAN #404-407.]]> 144 Pete 4 4.36 1988 Batman: Year One
author: David Miller; Mazzuchelli Frank
name: Pete
average rating: 4.36
book published: 1988
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/17
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> Batman: Hush 6375845
BATMAN: HUSH is a thrilling mystery of action, intrigue, and deception penned by Jeph Loeb (BATMAN: THE LONG HALLOWEEN) and illustrated by comics superstar Jim Lee (ALL STAR BATMAN & ROBIN, THE BOY WONDER) in which Batman sets out to discover the identity of a mysterious mastermind using the Joker, Riddler, Ra's al Ghul and the Dark Knight's other enemies - and allies - as pawns in a plan to wreak havoc.

This volume collects Batman #609-619 as well as the 6-page segment from Wizard #0 and a 2-page origin story that originally appeared at dccomics.com.]]> 320 Jeph Loeb 1401223176 Pete 3 4.27 2002 Batman: Hush
author: Jeph Loeb
name: Pete
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2002
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> John Martin: Apocalypse 12728228 192 Martin Myrone 1854378899 Pete 5 art, non-fiction 4.38 2011 John Martin: Apocalypse
author: Martin Myrone
name: Pete
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2011
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: art, non-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Nightmare: The birth of horror]]> 3842536 224 Christopher Frayling 0563371986 Pete 4 4.23 1996 Nightmare: The birth of horror
author: Christopher Frayling
name: Pete
average rating: 4.23
book published: 1996
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: art, non-fiction, literary-theory
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Tasks of Tantalon: A PuzzleQuest Book]]> 2571171 32 Steve Jackson 0192797921 Pete 4 puzzle-books 3.83 1985 The Tasks of Tantalon: A PuzzleQuest Book
author: Steve Jackson
name: Pete
average rating: 3.83
book published: 1985
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: puzzle-books
review:

]]> Nemi - Vol. 3 (Nemi, #3) 6282878
Hang out in the pub with Nemi and her friends, including her flatmate, the blue-haired Cyan; hear her opinions on romance and dating; watch her watch TV in her untidy flat; learn how she feels about birch trees, spiders and blondes; and generally experience the highs and lows of being Nemi in the modern world!

A superstar in her native Norway thanks to the immense success of Nemi — also reprinted in the 1.35 million-circulation UK Metro newspaper — you too can enter Lise Myhre’s witty, wonderful world!]]> 144 Lise Myhre 1845766156 Pete 4 comic-strips 4.26 2005 Nemi - Vol. 3 (Nemi, #3)
author: Lise Myhre
name: Pete
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comic-strips
review:

]]> Nemi - Vol. 2 (Nemi, #2) 3048590
Hang out with Nemi and her mates, including her best friend, the blue-haired Cyan, as they deal with love, friendship, inebriation, sex, and the other really important things of life.

A superstar in her native Norway, Scandinavia, Germany and the UK thanks to the immense success of Nemi — you too can enter Lise Myhre’s witty, wonderful world!

Introduction by world-renowned musician/songwriter Tori Amos.]]> 144 Lise Myhre 1845766148 Pete 4 comic-strips 4.30 2004 Nemi - Vol. 2 (Nemi, #2)
author: Lise Myhre
name: Pete
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2004
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comic-strips
review:

]]> Nemi - Vol. 1 (Nemi, #1) 1708626
Hang out in the pub with Nemi and her friends, including her flatmate, the blue-haired Cyan; hear her opinions on romance and dating; watch her watch TV in her untidy flat; learn how she feels about birch trees, spiders and blondes; and generally experience the highs and lows of being Nemi in the modern world!

A superstar in her native Norway thanks to the immense success of Nemi — also reprinted in the 1.12 million-circulation UK Metro newspaper — you too can enter Lise Myhre’s witty, wonderful world!]]> 144 Lise Myhre 1845765869 Pete 5 comic-strips 4.13 2003 Nemi - Vol. 1 (Nemi, #1)
author: Lise Myhre
name: Pete
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2003
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comic-strips
review:

]]> Death Jr., Vol. 1 661257 144 Gary Whitta 1582405263 Pete 4 comics-graphic-novels 3.94 2005 Death Jr., Vol. 1
author: Gary Whitta
name: Pete
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> 28 Days Later 6107759
Written by horror master Steve Niles (creator of the classic 30 Days of Night) and illustrated by three of the most terrifyingly talented illustrators working in comics today, 28 Days The Aftermath begins before the hit movie—and ends with a shocking revelation that leads into the events of the sequel, 28 Weeks Later.]]> 106 Steve Niles 0007236727 Pete 3 comics-graphic-novels 2.94 2007 28 Days Later
author: Steve Niles
name: Pete
average rating: 2.94
book published: 2007
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> Marvel 1985 6060267 172 Mark Millar 1846534062 Pete 4 3.73 2009 Marvel 1985
author: Mark Millar
name: Pete
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2009
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> Batman: The Killing Joke 2687401
When the Joker commits an unspeakable crime, Batman must use all his skill to outwit the crazed criminal. But in the end, how different are the Dark Knight and his quarry?

Legendary writer Alan Moore and artist Brian Bolland present this all-time classic story, digitally recoloured and featuring a bonus black and white story by Bolland.]]> 64 Alan Moore 1845767721 Pete 0 4.27 1988 Batman: The Killing Joke
author: Alan Moore
name: Pete
average rating: 4.27
book published: 1988
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Tragical Comedy or Comical Tragedy of Mr. Punch]]> 1182466 MISTER PUNCH

"He threw the baby out of the window. Then he battered his wife to death. He killed a policeman who came to arrest him. He caused the hangman to be hanged in his place. He murdered a ghost, and outwitted the Devil himself

"He never died.

"And Mister Punch still lives - to travel up and down the countryside, amusing and delighting both old and young."

In his grandfather's failing seaside arcade, a young boy encounters a mysterious Punch and Judy man with a dark past, and a woman who makes her living playing a mermaid.

As their lives intertwine and their stories unfold, the boy is forced to confront family secrets, stranhge puppets and a nightmarish world of violence and betrayal in this fantastic novel.

(Source: back cover)]]> 96 Neil Gaiman 0747588449 Pete 3 comics-graphic-novels 3.77 1994 The Tragical Comedy or Comical Tragedy of Mr. Punch
author: Neil Gaiman
name: Pete
average rating: 3.77
book published: 1994
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> Kick-Ass 7739304 208 Mark Millar 1848565348 Pete 0 comics-graphic-novels 3.96 2010 Kick-Ass
author: Mark Millar
name: Pete
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Darkblade: Reign of Blood (Warhammer) (Darkblade Graphic Novel, #1)]]> 2101657 256 Kevin Hopgood 1844162060 Pete 4 3.87 2005 Darkblade: Reign of Blood (Warhammer) (Darkblade Graphic Novel, #1)
author: Kevin Hopgood
name: Pete
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: black-library, comics-graphic-novels, fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Incredible Hulk: Planet Hulk Prelude]]> 8841166 168 Daniel Way 0785143777 Pete 3 comics-graphic-novels 3.69 2010 The Incredible Hulk: Planet Hulk Prelude
author: Daniel Way
name: Pete
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2010
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 2: Learning Curve]]> 105947 144 Brian Michael Bendis 0785108203 Pete 4 4.22 2001 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 2: Learning Curve
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 1: Power and Responsibility]]> 6639775 Ultimate Spider-Man #1-7 200 Brian Michael Bendis 0785139400 Pete 4 4.08 2001 Ultimate Spider-Man, Volume 1: Power and Responsibility
author: Brian Michael Bendis
name: Pete
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2001
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels, superheroes
review:

]]> The Guild (The Guild, #1) 8693600 95 Felicia Day 1595825495 Pete 4 comics-graphic-novels 4.21 2010 The Guild (The Guild, #1)
author: Felicia Day
name: Pete
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> Superior 13520071 200 Mark Millar 0857685945 Pete 4 comics-graphic-novels 3.72 2012 Superior
author: Mark Millar
name: Pete
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/10
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Moon Over Soho (Rivers of London, #2)]]> 11101331 Alternate cover edition of ASIN B004VF624S


I was my dad's vinyl-wallah: I changed his records while he lounged around drinking tea, and that's how I know my Argo from my Tempo. And it's why, when Dr Walid called me to the morgue to listen to a corpse, I recognised the tune it was playing.

Something violently supernatural had happened to the victim, strong enough to leave its imprint like a wax cylinder recording. Cyrus Wilkinson, part-time jazz saxophonist and full-time accountant, had apparently dropped dead of a heart attack just after finishing a gig in a Soho jazz club. He wasn't the first.

No one was going to let me exhume corpses to see if they were playing my tune, so it was back to old-fashioned legwork, starting in Soho, the heart of the scene. I didn't trust the lovely Simone, Cyrus' ex-lover, professional jazz kitten and as inviting as a Rubens portrait, but I needed her help: there were monsters stalking Soho, creatures feeding off that special gift that separates the great musician from someone who can raise a decent tune. What they take is beauty. What they leave behind is sickness, failure and broken lives.

And as I hunted them, my investigation got tangled up in another story: a brilliant trumpet player, Richard 'Lord' Grant - my father - who managed to destroy his own career, twice. That's the thing about policing: most of the time you're doing it to maintain public order. Occasionally you're doing it for justice. And maybe once in a career, you're doing it for revenge.]]> 396 Ben Aaronovitch Pete 4 fantasy 4.25 2011 Moon Over Soho (Rivers of London, #2)
author: Ben Aaronovitch
name: Pete
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/07
shelves: fantasy
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Whispers Under Ground (Rivers of London, #3)]]> 10814687
We found one.

And that was that, I thought come Monday. First case of the day: Person Unknown has been stabbed to death on the tracks at Baker Street Underground. Magic may have been involved. Sure enough, the weapon turns out to be saturated in the tell-tale traces left by magic.

But Person Unknown turns out to be the son of a US senator, so before you can say "international incident", FBI agent Kimberley Reynolds and her firmly held religious beliefs are on my case.

And down in the dark, in the Tube tunnels of London, along with the buried rivers and remnants of Victorian sewer systems, I'm hearing some really strange things...]]> 418 Ben Aaronovitch 0575097647 Pete 0 to-read 4.12 2012 Whispers Under Ground (Rivers of London, #3)
author: Ben Aaronovitch
name: Pete
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2012/06/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Seize The Night (Moonlight Bay, #2)]]> 481316
"Seize the Night" is the brilliant new thriller in the Moonlight Bay trilogy, following the acclaimed bestseller "Fear Nothing."]]> 443 Dean Koontz 0553580191 Pete 0 to-read 3.76 1998 Seize The Night (Moonlight Bay, #2)
author: Dean Koontz
name: Pete
average rating: 3.76
book published: 1998
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2012/06/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Fear Nothing (Moonlight Bay, #1)]]> 32432
But Chris's brilliant mother, a scientist, was killed in a car accident 2 years ago, and as the book opens his father, Steven Snow, is dying of cancer; Chris's protected life is about to change forever. We meet Chris as he is carefully preparing himself to go out in the late-afternoon sun to visit the hospital. In his last moments of life his father tells Chris he is "sorry" and that Chris should "fear nothing"—cryptic words that Chris cannot really relate to.

Steven Snow's body is removed to the hospital basement for transport to the funeral home/crematorium, and when Chris goes downstairs for a final moment of farewell, he witnesses a frightening and clandestine the funeral director and another man Chris doesn't recognize are substituting the body of a hitchhiker for Steven Snow's body–which is being taken not to the crematorium but to some secret destination.

For Chris, this scene is the first intimation of a conspiracy that he will come to realize envelopes many of his townspeople. His parents knew of it and wanted to protect Chris from it. His best friend has had hints of something wrong because of the frightening nocturnal visitors that have come to his beachhouse. And the first person to try to explain to Chris what's going on—and warn him about the special danger he himself is in—will be hideously murdered.

In the 24 hours this book encompasses, Christopher Snow will find out that, sheltered though he's been, he has the soul of a fighter and an adventurer. By the end of the book he will have killed a man, will have discovered the role his own mother played in the birth of the conspiracy, will have come to recognize the extraordinary guardians that, unknown to him, have watched over him for years. He will realize that some people hate him, others revere him, and neither his own life nor those of anyone he knows will ever be the same.]]> 448 Dean Koontz 0553579754 Pete 4 4.00 1997 Fear Nothing (Moonlight Bay, #1)
author: Dean Koontz
name: Pete
average rating: 4.00
book published: 1997
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/07
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ghost Rider: The Road to Damnation]]> 95415 144 Garth Ennis 0785121226 Pete 3 comics-graphic-novels 3.53 2006 Ghost Rider: The Road to Damnation
author: Garth Ennis
name: Pete
average rating: 3.53
book published: 2006
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2012/06/07
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> Marvel 1602 15719 Marvel 1602, award-winning writer Neil Gaiman presents a unique vision of the Marvel Universe set four hundred years in the past. Classic Marvel icons such as the X-Men, Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four and Daredevil appear in this intriguing world of 17th-century science and sorcery, instantly familiar to readers, yet subtly different in this new time. Marvel 1602 combines classic Marvel action and adventure with the historically accurate setting of Queen Elizabeth I's reign to create a unique series unlike any other published by Marvel Comics.

Collecting Marvel 1602 #1-8 - penciled by andy Kubert and digitally painted by Richard Isanove, with covers by Scott McKowen.]]> 248 Neil Gaiman 0785123113 Pete 4 comics-graphic-novels 3.93 2003 Marvel 1602
author: Neil Gaiman
name: Pete
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2012/06/07
shelves: comics-graphic-novels
review:

]]> I Am Legend 14064
By day he is the hunter, stalking the undead through the ruins of civilisation. By night, he barricades himself in his home and prays for the dawn.

How long can one man survive like this?

]]> 160 Richard Matheson 1857988094 Pete 4 4.06 1954 I Am Legend
author: Richard Matheson
name: Pete
average rating: 4.06
book published: 1954
rating: 4
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date added: 2012/05/24
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]]> The Royal Hunt of the Sun 315268 Book by Shaffer, Peter 160 Peter Shaffer 1868881024 Pete 4 3.87 1964 The Royal Hunt of the Sun
author: Peter Shaffer
name: Pete
average rating: 3.87
book published: 1964
rating: 4
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date added: 2012/05/21
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review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Worst Witch (Worst Witch, #1)]]> 351023 107 Jill Murphy 0141319623 Pete 3 3.95 1974 The Worst Witch (Worst Witch, #1)
author: Jill Murphy
name: Pete
average rating: 3.95
book published: 1974
rating: 3
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date added: 2012/05/21
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time]]> 1618 226 Mark Haddon 1400032717 Pete 5 3.89 2003 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
author: Mark Haddon
name: Pete
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2003
rating: 5
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date added: 2012/05/20
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Camera Lucida: Reflections on Photography]]> 497164 Camera Lucida was first published in 1979. Commenting on artists such as Avedon, Clifford, Mapplethorpe, and Nadar, Roland Barthes presents photography as being outside the codes of language or culture, acting on the body as much as on the mind, and rendering death and loss more acutely than any other medium. This groundbreaking approach established Camera Lucida as one of the most important books of theory on this subject, along with Susan Sontag's On Photography.]]> 119 Roland Barthes 0374521344 Pete 0 to-read 3.99 1980 Camera Lucida: Reflections on Photography
author: Roland Barthes
name: Pete
average rating: 3.99
book published: 1980
rating: 0
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date added: 2012/05/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]>