Fiction – Page 14 – Ryan's Book Blog

Black Genesis

July 27, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in March of 1986, Black Genesis is the 2nd book in the Mission Earth series which sees Jethro Heller and Sultan Gris making it to Earth.

My Thoughts

This book takes more than a few swings at psychology, government, and so on. It is still a lot of fun as you see things fall into place for Jethro and not so much for the good Sultan.

I find myself looking for deeper meaning in this books as the story moves along. Jethro Heller is a little overpowered but he truly is a “good guy”. He cares for everyone, even those who are trying to do him harm. Sultan Gris constantly expects the worst to happen from Heller’s acts of kindness and decency but they always work out for Heller. People end up being loyal and kind in return rather than be vengeful and cruel. Perhaps the book is just pandering to what sells but it certainly works on me.

Recommendation

A fun read but start at the beginning.

The Invaders Plan

July 21, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in October of 1985 by L. Ron Hubbard, The Invaders Plan is the first book of the “Mission Earth” series. This book talks about the invasion of Earth from the alien’s point of view. They have some concerns if it is worth the effort since we are destroying our environment. It also sets up the circumstances to get Jethro Heller to Earth with Sultan Gris’s schemes following in his wake.

My Thoughts

This was another fun book from my childhood. I remember reading it several times when my brothers would finish with it. I hadn’t thought of it in years but I was asked for a recommendation from my son and the series sprung to mind.

I was surprised how quickly it went as I was reading. I was disappointed I had to reserve both the 2nd and 3rd so I will have to wait to continue…

Recommendation

Great book and a lot of fun.

A Dirty Job

May 23, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in March of 2006, “A Dirty Job” is a darkly comedic novel written by Christopher Moore that follows the life of Charlie Asher, a San Francisco bookstore owner who unexpectedly becomes a “death merchant” after the death of his wife. Charlie discovers that he is a “beta male,” a person who collects the souls of the dying and must help guide them to their next destination. As Charlie navigates his new job and the strange underworld of San Francisco’s supernatural community, he becomes embroiled in a battle between good and evil that could determine the fate of humanity. The book is both hilarious and thought-provoking, exploring themes of mortality, family, and what it means to be a hero in a world full of darkness.

My Thoughts

My intent was to read something a little lighter so I looked up the best amusing novels. This one came up on the list so I checked it out.

It was certainly engaging but a little rougher around the edges for my tastes. Certainly the idea of retrieving souls is interesting but I think they didn’t quite stick the landing at the end.

Recommendation

It was Ok.

The Princess Bride

May 18, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

The “Good Parts” version of the classic tale of The Princess Bride was released in 1973 and was performed by Rob Reiner after he directed the movie version in 1987.

My Thoughts

I had only seen the movie but this was a fun addition to what I had already seen.

Recommendation

It was a good read

Walk in my Combat Boots

April 14, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in February of 2021, Walk in My Combat Boots is a collection of true stories from America’s warriors, told by the men and women who lived them. The stories are raw, honest, and unforgettable. They offer a glimpse into the lives of those who have served our country in the armed forces, and the sacrifices they have made.

The book is divided into three sections: “The Call to Duty,” “The Fight,” and “The Homecoming.” In “The Call to Duty,” the authors share their stories of why they joined the military. In “The Fight,” they recount their experiences in combat. And in “The Homecoming,” they discuss the challenges of re-integrating into civilian life.

My Thoughts

Most of the stories are lacking in any kind of theme or similarity so it was easy to get lost in the narrative. My hat is off to our service men and women but I didn’t really enjoy this book.

Recommendation

It was hard to get through. I’d skip this one.

Children of Dune

January 12, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Children of Dune was published back in 1976 by Frank Herbert and is the 3rd in a 6 volume series about Dune. This story is largely about the son and daughter of Paul after he heads into the desert.

My Thoughts

I didn’t really care for this book. The children were too overpowered to be much fun and his sister was a trip. Of course, that’s the idea, the cautionary tale of what can happen when you get a little too full of yourself.

Recommendation

It wasn’t terrible but I should have stopped at the first book.

Ready Player Two

December 21, 2021 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in November of 2020, “Ready Player Two” is a science fiction novel written by Ernest Cline and serves as a sequel to his 2011 bestseller, “Ready Player One”. The story takes place in a near-future world where virtual reality technology has become even more advanced, and the line between the real world and the digital realm has become increasingly blurred. The story follows Wade Watts, the protagonist from the first book, as he discovers a new technological breakthrough that promises to change everything. However, as Wade and his friends delve deeper into this new world, they find themselves facing new dangers and challenges that threaten to upend everything they thought they knew.

My Thoughts

Unfortunately the quality of this book was down from the last. I really enjoyed Ready Player One but that may be it hit me perfectly as nostalgic for the 80s. This book felt tacked on.

Recommendation

Skip this one!

Battle Ground

December 18, 2021 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Battle Ground is the 17th novel in The Dresden Files. Battle Ground was published on September 29, 2020. This book wraps up the series.

My Thoughts

Due to my hosting service being terrible, I’m writing this 5 months after I read the book. However, I really did enjoy it. Harry becomes more than a little overpowered but it was all in good fun. Great series!

Recommendation

It was worth the 16 books previous

Peace Talks

December 17, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in July of 2020, Peace Talks is the 16th novel in The Dresden Files series. Harry’s brother is found in the wrong place at the wrong time and will soon be judged by the accords. Harry might have a chance to make things right but that’s just a chance.

My Thoughts

Much was brought together in this book and the story is reaching it’s climax. This book was a giant set up for the next book… The author was pumping out a book a year on this series and then took 6 years to get this one out. The final book came out about 6 months after this so it is really part 1 of the end.

Recommendation

Fun book but don’t start here. Go back and read the 15 previous books.

Skin Game

December 16, 2021 by Ryan

Background

Published in May of 2014, “Skin Game” is a fantasy novel by author Jim Butcher, which follows the story of Harry Dresden, a wizard and private investigator, as he becomes embroiled in a high-stakes heist with a group of dangerous criminals. In order to save the life of a friend, Dresden must work with a gang of supernatural beings to steal a powerful artifact from a heavily guarded vault. As the heist becomes increasingly complex and dangerous, Dresden must use all of his skills and wits to outsmart his adversaries and stay alive. Skin Game is the 15th book in The Dresden Files series.

My Thoughts

Back to flexible ethics… Though the author really did a good job writing this book, I didn’t care for where it took us. I do understand the necessity of the story to get to the full story arc but this wasn’t my favorite book.

Recommendation

Still fun but not my favorite.