"Diana" by RF Delderfield

10-2-11 to 11-25-11 This book reminded me a little of Jane Austin's Emma. Throughout the reading I really never liked her, Diana. I didn't trust her not to hurt John. I didn't like the fact that she called him Jan from the Lorna Doone character. I didn't like her scheming and self-centeredness. I felt protective of John.

I don't know if Delderfield expected us to feel that way or if  I am a snob for the working class and don't trust that people with money and power ever fall for love. She was raised in a station above John and I only saw trouble and hurt for him. I also felt that she didn't deserve the loyalty and trust bestow on her by John and Drip, her governess.

Don't get me wrong, I did like the book but I am not sure if I was supposed to like Diana and forgive all the things she did to John. The book is written from John's perspective as a series of recollections that at moments give a somber feel. I do wish that Delderfield had ended the book more definitely rather leaving it some what unfinished.

Read the book...

"Honored Enemy" by Raynmond E. Feist and William Forstchen

01-22-11 to 01-29-11 I love these books! I stumbled on to Fiest's books a while back. I have read all the ones prior to "Honored Enemy" and have all the ones following it. I don't know how Fiest does but I am hooked from page five and find myself reading when I should be doing other things.

Oddly, I usually don't like stories that are one long battle or chase and yet this one worked. The relationships between the two opposing captains and the delimma of what do with a mutual enemy chasing them both worked in building relationships around battle and running. The ending worries me a little because I do want more of Dennis Hartraft and Asayaga. While more could be written, this book seemed to wrap up and finish these characters. Nothing was left hanging, which is good - but I want more!

I always know when I want the story to continue the writter has done well with the characters. I found myself yelling at Dennis to be nice or knock it off - it made him true for me. I loved Asayaga dealing with a known spy in his ranks from headquarters and dancing the political dance we've all danced to in our life.

Great characters, great book!

Read the book!