Robert's Favorite Books of 2009:
"Twelve" by Jasper Kent. Release Date (UK Only): January 1, 2009. Pubished by Bantam Press UK. Brilliantly blending together historical fiction with vampire horror, "Twelve" is one of the best debuts of the year, and quite possibly my favorite book of 2009.
************************************
"Canticle" by Ken Scholes. Release Date: October 13, 2009. Published by Tor. Superior to its predecessor in almost every way, "Canticle" is what a middle volume should be like: thrilling and rewarding while leaving the reader gasping for more...
************************************
"The Price of Spring" by Daniel Abraham. Release Date: July 21, 2009. Published by Tor. The fourth and final volume in The Long Price Quartet is a triumphant conclusion to one of the most unique and spellbinding fantasy series that I've read in the past decade...
************************************
"The Rats and the Ruling Sea" by Robert V.S. Redick. Release Date (UK Only): October 29, 2009. Published by Gollancz. Possessing all of the same outstanding qualities of the first book, while fixing most of its problems, "The Rats and the Ruling Sea" is a vast improvement over its predecessor and easily one of the best fantasy novels of the year...
************************************
"The Sad Tale of the Brothers Grossbart" by Jesse Bullington. Release Date: November 16, 2009. Published by Orbit Books. Bullington's debut may be vulgar, offensive, and hard to classify, but that's all part of the novel's unique and complex charm...
************************************
"Boneshaker" by Cherie Priest. Release Date: September 29, 2009. Published by Tor. A winning combination of steampunk, zombie horror, pulp fiction and post-apocalyptic retrofuturism, "Boneshaker" is one of the year's most entertaining releases...
************************************
"Mortal Coils" by Eric Nylund. Release Date: February 3, 2009. Published by Tor. A hugely entertaining and ambitious contemporary fantasy that magnificently blends together magic, myth, dysfunctional families, imagination and storytelling for an unforgettable reading experience...
************************************
"The Forest of Hands & Teeth" by Carrie Ryan. Release Date: March 10, 2009. Published by Delacorte. Skillfully written, poignantly narrated, and powerfully haunting, Carrie Ryan's YA post-apocalyptic/zombie novel is simply one of the best debuts of the year…
************************************
"The Mystic Arts of Erasing All Signs of Death" by Charlie Huston. Release Date: January 13, 2009. Published by Ballantine Books. My favorite novel—which includes 2010's "Sleepless"—by one of my favorite authors. Need I say more?
************************************
"This Is Not A Game" by Walter Jon Williams. Release Date: March 24, 2009. Published by Orbit Books. Expertly written and executed, scarily relevant, and massively entertaining, "This Is Not A Game" should be on everyone's reading list…
************************************
"Afraid" by Jack Kilborn. Release Date: March 31, 2009. Published by Grand Central Publishing. Part horror, part suspense and part techno-thriller, "Afraid" is a non-stop joyride that evokes the very best of Stephen King and Dean Koontz...
************************************
"Thicker Than Water" by Mike Carey. Release Date (UK Only): March 5, 2009. Published by Orbit Books. Featuring the series' most jaw-dropping twists and revelations, "Thicker Than Water" is the best volume in one of the best urban fantasy series currently being published...
************************************
"Patient Zero" by Jonathan Maberry. Release Date: March 3, 2009. Published by St. Martin's Griffin. James Rollins' Sigma Force novels meets 24 meets 28 Days Later and Resident Evil in Maberry's immensely entertaining blockbuster...
12:01 AM | 
Posted by
Liviu |
Order “Veracity” HERE
Read An Excerpt HERE
AUTHOR INFORMATION: Laura Bynum has completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Communications at the University of Illinois and Eastern Illinois University. In 2006, Laura won the Rupert Hughes Literary Writing Award at the Maui Writer’s Conference. “Veracity” is her first novel.
PLOT SUMMARY: Harper Adams was six years old in 2012 when the Pandemic wiped out one-half of the country’s population. Out of the ashes rose a new government, the Confederation of the Willing, dedicated to maintaining order at any cost. The populace is controlled via government-sanctioned sex and drugs, a brutal police force known as the Blue Coats, and a device called the slate, a mandatory implant that monitors every word a person speaks. To utter a forbidden, Red-Listed word is to risk physical punishment, or even death.
But there are those who resist. Guided by the fabled Book of Noah, they are determined to shake the people from their apathy and ignorance, and are prepared to start a war in the name of freedom. The newest member of this resistance is Harper—a woman driven by memories of a daughter lost, a daughter whose very name was erased by the Red List. And she possesses a power that could make her the underground warriors’ ultimate weapon—or the instrument of their destruction...
FORMAT/INFO: “Veracity” is 384 pages divided over nine sections—each section is titled after a ‘Red Word’, followed by that word’s definition: Apostasy, Heresy, Obstreperous, etc.—and twenty-seven numbered/dated chapters. Narration is in the first-person, exclusively via the protagonist Harper Adams. “Veracity” is self-contained, but with room for possible sequels. January 5, 2010 marks the North American Hardcover publication of “Veracity” via Pocket Books. ARC provided by the publisher upon request.
ANALYSIS: ve-rac-i-ty: habitual observance of truth in speech or statement; truthfulness; conformity to truth or fact.
Veracity is the name of Harper Adams’ eleven-year-old daughter for whom the protagonist will sacrifice everything for; one of the nine Red Listed words used to title the book’s sections; and one of the ideals preached by the resistance. It is also the title of Laura Bynum’s impressive debut, a future dystopian novel in the vein of Fahrenheit 451, The Children of Men, 1984, and Brave New World.
Like those books, “Veracity” takes current real-world issues (censorship, critical thinking, terrorism, loss of privacy, etc) and envisions a future gone wrong. In this case, a world decimated by a Pandemic and governed by a tyrannical regime. Where people are policed by slates (identification modules embedded in the neck recording everything people do and regulating speech via the Red Word system), fear, and the dreaded Blue Coats who are basically given free reign to conduct punishments (interrogation, mutilation, rape, torture, murder) in any manner they deem fit. Where free sex, religion, the antidepressant Occlusia, and booze are the people’s only outlet. Where advertising, music, poems, libraries, fiction novels, self-expression, freedom and so on are unknown concepts. In short, Laura Bynum has envisioned a truly frightening world, one that is vividly realized and the novel’s greatest strength, although there were a few matters that could have used further clarification.
Unfortunately, “Veracity” is pretty run-of-the-mill story-wise. A resistance rising up against an oppressive government; a protagonist fighting for a new world for her child; people who should dislike each other falling in love; traitors; precognitive abilities—astral projection, the ability to see auras (colors) of people & things and glean knowledge from them . . . it’s all been done countless times before. To make matters worse, Laura Bynum plays things so safe that the outcomes of the book’s most pressing questions—Can Harper pinpoint the master redactor in time? Will the resistance succeed? Will Harper ever see her daughter again?—are never in doubt, thus deflating any suspense or tension the book could have had. On the positive side, Laura drops a couple of nice surprises in the second half of the novel, and I really enjoyed the non-linear narrative which skillfully jumps between the present day (August 2045) when Harper is joining the resistance as they go to war, and the past (2012, 2023, 2026, etc) like when the Pandemic first struck, Harper’s recruitment as a Monitor, and the various events that led to her disillusionment of the Confederation.
Characterization meanwhile, was a mixed bag with the protagonist Harper Adams richly portrayed and possessing an accessible narrative voice. On the flipside, I never cared for Harper as much as I should have, and I thought her relationship with both her daughter Veracity and her recruiter John Gage were vastly underdeveloped. As a result, I didn’t believe in the romance that blossoms between Harper and John, and was underwhelmed by her motivations for joining the resistance. Plus, the supporting cast felt clichéd and uninteresting in comparison to Harper.
In the end, even though “Veracity” covers a number of familiar themes and ideas; suffers from a routine plot, safe storytelling, and uneven characterization; and doesn’t realize its full potential as a novel; Laura Bynum’s debut is a very strong first effort. In particular, “Veracity” is well-written, thought-provoking, and powerfully relevant. Definitely a novel worth checking out and a new author to watch...
The release dates are US unless marked otherwise and the books are first edition unless noted differently. The dates are on a best known basis so they are not guaranteed; same about the edition information. Since information sometimes is out of date even in the Amazon/Book Depository links we use for listings, books get delayed or sometimes even released earlier, we would truly appreciate if you would send us an email about any listing with incorrect information.
*********************************************
“Real Unreal: Best American Fantasy 3” by Kevin Brockmeier and Matthew Cheney. Release Date: January 1, 2010.
“Dragons of Darkness” by Antonia Michaelis. Release Date: January 1, 2010.
“Kitty’s House of Horrors” by Carrie Vaughn. Release Date: January 4, 2010.
“Sympathy for the Devil” by Justin Gustainis. UK Release Date: January 4, 2010.
“Starbound” by Joe Haldeman. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Arms-Commander” by L. E. Modesitt Jr. Release Date. January 5, 2010.
*********************************************
“The Many Deaths of the Black Company” by Glen Cook. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Hastur Lord” by Marion Zimmer Bradley & Deborah J. Ross. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Hawkmoon: The Jewel in the Skull” (r) by Michael Moorcock. Release Date: January 5, 2010
“Catalyst” by Anne McCaffrey & Elizabeth Ann Scarborough. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“The Spirit Lens” by Carol Berg. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Through Stone and Sea” by Barb Hendee & J.C. Hendee. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
*********************************************
“DarkShip Thieves” by Sarah A. Hoyt. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“The Domino Pattern” by Timothy Zahn. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Iorich” by Steven Brust. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“The Good, The Bad, and the Uncanny” by Simon R. Green. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Brooklyn Knight” by C.J. Henderson. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Blood Cross” by Faith Hunter. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
*********************************************
“Doppelgangster” by Laura Resnick. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Veracity” by Laura Bynum. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Impact” by Douglas Preston. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“The Five Greatest Warriors” by Matthew Reilly. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“The Girl with Glass Feet” by Ali Shaw. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“Brain Thief” by Alexander Jablokov. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
*********************************************
“Inked” by Karen Chance, Marjorie M. Liu, Yasmine Galenorn & Eileen Wilks. Release Date: January 5, 2010.
“At the Gates of Darkness” by Raymond E. Feist. UK Release Date: January 7, 2010.
“The Left Hand of God” by Paul Hoffman. UK Release Date: January 7, 2010.
“Freedom” by Daniel Suarez. Release Date: January 7, 2010.
“Servant of the Underworld” by Aliette de Bodard. UK Release Date: January 7, 2010.
“The Bookman” by Lavie Tidhar. UK Release Date: January 7, 2010.
*********************************************
“The Levels” by Sean Cregan. UK Release Date: January 7, 2010.
“Sleepless” by Charlie Huston. Release Date: January 12, 2010.
“The Swan Thieves” by Elizabeth Kostova. Release Date: January 12, 2010.
“Wild Hunt” by Margaret Ronald. Release Date: January 12, 2010.
“Bloodroot” by Amy Greene. Release Date: January 12, 2010.
“Mr. Shivers” by Robert Jackson Bennett. Release Date: January 15, 2010.
*********************************************
“The Unnamed” by Joshua Ferris. Release Date: January 18, 2010.
“The Burning Land” by Bernard Cornwell. Release Date: January 19, 2010.
“Vampire Maker” by Michael Schiefelbein. Release Date: January 19, 2010.
“Player’s Ruse” by Hilari Bell. Release Date: January 19, 2010.
“Prince of Storms” by Kay Kenyon. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“Hardcore” by Andy Remic. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
*********************************************
“The Many Deaths of the Firefly Brothers” by Thomas Mullen. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“The Secret of Excalibur” by Andy McDermott. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“Black Rain” by Graham Brown. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“Gator A-Go-Go” by Tim Dorsey. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“Queen Victoria: Demon Hunter” by A.E. Moorat. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“Night Tides” by Alex Prentiss. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
*********************************************
“Shadow Blade” by Seressia Glass. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“Incarceron” by Catherine Fisher. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“First Contact: Or, It's Later Than You Think” by Evan Mandery. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“The Chestnut King” by N.D. Wilson. Release Date: January 26, 2010.
“Mister Slaughter” by Robert McCammon. Release Date: January 31, 2010.
“The Great Bazaar and Other Stories” by Peter V. Brett. Release Date: January 31, 2010.
Desideria by Nicole Kornher-Stace
Omega by Christopher Evans (UK)
Filaria by Brent Hayward
Interregnum by SJA Turney
Angelglass by David Barnett
The Manhattan Prophet by Jake Packard
The Choir Boats by Daniel Rabuzzi
Clockwork Heart by Dru Pagliasotti
The Crystal Cosmos by Rhys Hughes
Impossibilia by Douglas Smith
*******************************
The two books below were not as excellent reads as the above, but I would still recommend them since both were compelling despite their flaws (for me) and made me read them end to end without trying another book in the meantime. I wrote on Goodreads about them and I planned to cover both here at FBC but ultimately time-constraints intervened so I will use this opportunity to mention them here.
Geas by Jonathan Webb
"Very good writing and a great start get lost in ultra-predictable and by the numbers plot; kept my interest to the end and I am very eager to see what Mr. Webb brings out next, but this book had great promise which was not fully realized in the end due to the storyline"
Anyone who wants a relatively predictable but entertaining and page turning fantasy should look at this one
Camp Desolation and an Eschatology of Salt by Uncle River
"Weird, dark, compelling but finally a bit too short and with too many loose ends".
The review I linked above covers very well the book and I tend to agree with most of it including the conclusion.
Notes:
1: I did not include the several eligible titles that made my Top 2009 Book List: The Babylonian Trilogy/Doubinsky, Escape from Byzantium/Mark Mellon, Purple & Black/Parker and Avempartha/Sullivan to avoid repetition, leave the spotlight to different books and to emphasize again that the Top 2009 Books post was specifically about *2009 first English language releases* read by me.
2: Omega is in the top 10 sff books I read in 2009, while Desideria is in the top 10 "mainstream" novels I read in 2009.
3: Crystal Cosmos and Impossibilia are in the top short fiction 2009 reads of mine
Over the course of 2009 I have read a wide range of book, from children's books to what one could say is "grownup" fantasy series. My total has topped out at a little over 225 books for the year, not including books I haven't finished. My lists are made up of a top "adult" category, and a YA/Middle Grade category, and in no particular order.
Adult Fantasy
1. Horsemen's Gambit by David B Coe
Not much is ever mentioned about Coe, who I feel is a widely under appreciated author. Maybe it's because the series isn't a in your face pull out all the stops, have every character's guts spilled everywhere novel (not that those novels are bad they just appear to be the new "in" thing) that it seems to get overlooked. The trip back to a fantasy setting where the characters and the world are developed in a truly epic form.
2. Dragonseed by James Maxey
I have a soft spot for dragons, give me a book that involves dragons and I'll gobble it up. Dragonseed is the third novel in the Dragon Age series. Something about this series has pulled me in since the beginning, and Maxey does a wonderful job of bringing back some old characters and tying up the plot lines. I really hope to see more novels in this series, in whatever form they might come out in.
3. Edge of the World by Kevin Anderson
When I read and reviewed Edge of the World, I swore up and down this wouldn't make my top list. I was wrong. This book for some reason has been constantly on my mind since I put it down. I want to know what happens to the characters. Not that readers were left in a cliffhanger I just keep thinking about the whole book and what's next. I even found myself reading it a second time just for the fun.
4. Library Of Shadows by Mikkel Birkegaard
Anyone that's a reader would enjoy this thriller. Although it was a little predictable at times I really enjoyed the way that books and reading could be used as such powerful weapons or tools.
5. The Chronicles of Raven Series:Dawnthief, Noonshade, Nightchild by James Barclay
Although I've been a fan of this series for a number of years, it was brought to the US this year (by Pyr) and so it was the first time that I could share the love of this series with many others! The Raven series is everything that sword and sorcery stands for. Barclay jumps right into action with his books, but actually takes the time to develop characters, the world, and plot lines. Nothing gets overlooked. Which is what makes this series one of my all time favorites!
6. Age of Misrule Series: World's End, Darkest Hour, Always Forever by Mark Chadbourn
Another series that came out in the US this year. The use of English monuments as such a pivotal part of the plot was wonderful. And I fully enjoyed this series that has a twist of old fantasy mixed with a new type of fantasy.
7. Stolen Moon of Londor: The White Shadow Saga by A. P. Stephens
A budding author in his own right, this was a promising start to an independently published author. It was a nicely sized novel, that isn't so large it's being used as a door stopper, and the pacing and fight scenes were wonderfully portrayed. I await to see what he brings to the table with other books. Plus the cover is pretty eye catching too!
8. Avempartha by Michael J. Sullivan
I loved Crown Conspiracy and this was just such an added treat to that series.
9. The Silver Skull: Swords of Albion by Mark Chadbourn
The use of old Victorian setting of England and the fast fighting make this an enjoyable read for 2009.
YA/Middle Grade
1. Eyes Like Stars (The Theatre Illuminata: Act 1) by Lisa Mantchev
If I had to pick my all time favorite book for 2009, I would have to say this was it. Covering both categories of Adult and YA. I have easily read this book at least 5 times and really hope that the series gets picked up somewhere along the line. Something about the whole idea of a theatre that comes to life behind the scenes just really attracts me. The plot, characters, and writing make this book a real treat.
2. Purloined Boy (The Weirdling Cycle #1) by Mortimus Clay
This was a surprising gem of a find for myself. It had a nice setting, a uniquish feel to it, and I really enjoyed the characters in it. The use of bogeymen kidnapping children and turning into this huge plot line was really a surprise. I look forward to seeing what Mortimus Clay pulls out of his sleeve for 2010.
3. Farwalker's Quest by Joni Sensel
Although from the outside it may appear as a typical fantasy adventure quest novel, this book has so much more inside. It's filled with a heart warming tale, and characters that readers can just become attached to instantly. Every detail of the book is still fresh in my mind, and I can almost relive every part. Really a great story for both adults and children.
4. Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin
While not a typical fantasy book, this Chinese folktale like novel won a spot on my top of 2009 list. I don't know if it was the unique use of short stories to form a much larger novel, or the similarities to the Wizard of Oz but either way this was another touching story.
5. Silksinger (Faeries of Dreamdark) by Laini Taylor
I enjoyed the first book in the series, Blackbringer. But Taylor really stepped it up with Silksinger, it was almost as if a completely different author had penned this book. Seeing faeries in this small world setting is what makes me really love this novel and the drawings are amazing!
6. Malice by Chris Wooding
Who can resist a novel that involves children being kidnapped to a mysterious comic book world that has evil lurking around. Such a unique concept with some wonderful writing and even had that suspense that gives you the creeps sometimes!
7. ArchEnemy by Frank Beddor
The last of the Looking Glass Wars series, and it really packed a punch. I wasn't a complete fan after the second novel, something about it turned me away. Frank really turned the series around and wrapped up everything very nicely. ArchEnemy wraps up a very nicely told story.
8. Jake Ransom and the Skull King's Shadow by James Rollins
If Mihir hadn't mentioned this book to me I might have overlooked it completely. Jake Ransom is one of those YA books that has a slightly different approach to the YA novels but yet has an element that is enjoyable for both adults and kids alike!
Miscellaneous Book
1. The Treacherous Teddy by John J Lamb
While it's not a fantasy novel in the sense of fantasy, this is one of those mystery books that I have a soft spot for. For the past 4 years I have eagerly looked forward to the next Teddy Bear Collector Mystery book (as I LOVE teddy bears). This novel took readers back to the quick, heart stopping murder mystery that Lamb came to be known for.
2. Mouse Guard Volumn 2: Winter 1152 by David Petersen
A graphic novel that I feel in love with when I first saw it. The drawings and color usage is just so magical that you are instantly transported to the world of the Mice. This second installment is just as good as the first.
2009 Books that I haven't gotten around to but will:
Fire by Kristen Cashore
Sasha by Joel Shepard
Wolfbreed by S.A. Swann
Lips Touch by Laini Taylor
Ice by Sarah Beth Durst
Mirrorscape by Mike Wilks
Sea Glass by Maria V. Snyder
Canticle by Ken Scholes
Pastworld by Ian Beck
This is my first time at compiling such a list, so kindly excuse my mistakes. I'm very much a lover of Fantasy and Thriller books & thanks to FantasyBookCritic I got to broaden my reading horizons as well. Presented here are my top 20 picks amongst all the 80-100 odd titles I managed to read this year. Also given are the top 10 debuts for 2009 and as well as the top 5 YA books. Many of the reviews are from the FBC site done by Liviu, Robert or me, however for I have linked reviews from sites which I read myself. Some books were released in 2008[and one even in 1997] as well but I have included them over here as I got to read them this year. And now onto the list.
*******************************************
2009 top 20 titles:
1] The Painted Man/The Warded Man by Peter V. Brett
This was my favorite book of 2009 as the author combined elements of heroic, epic & dark fantasy and the tale was riveting and so were the characters in spite of the obvious tropes which were utilized, Peter V. Brett did a fine job of announcing himself on the fantasy scene. His book was my choice for the DGLA award this year (Though sadly it didn't make the shortlist I felt it best encapsulated the feel of David Gemmell's books & themes) I know that it was released as TPW in the UK circa 2008 however TWM was released over here in 2009 & I first read the story as TWM. This series hopefully will be allowed to run its natural storytelling course of 5 books. If Peter V. Brett continues in this fine form this series might become a classic of this genre, sequel book is highly anticipated
*******************************************
Turn Coat by Jim Butcher
The Dresden files authored by Jim Butcher are 11 books strong and still ongoing. This series is considered to be the Gold Standard in the Urban Fantasy by fans & critics alike. This book featured a big event & a simultaneous upheaval in the life of Harry Dresden & was another terrific page-turner by Jim Butcher who seems oblivious to law of averages & is prolific enough to continue putting out a book every year. Next year book features a change in the title pattern and is also called "Changes" another must-read for me.
*******************************************
3] Traitor Gate by Kate Elliott
The ending to the Gate trilogy was in a word "stupendous". Kate Elliot managed to carry across all the characters & story threads begun in the previous 2 volumes and managed to give a rousing climax book in which all expectations were overturned. This book & series has converted me back into the KE camp as her earlier Crown of Stars series was a bit of a letdown for me. The 3rd book ended the Gate trilogy & now with 4 books to go, it will be fun to what Kate has in store for this fantastical world.
*******************************************
4] The Lovers by John Connolly
John Connolly's The Lovers was another terrific title in the Charlie Parker series and one which changed the plot equations. This book managed to overtake my already high expectations after last years' "The Reapers". You have to hand it to the author when the book holds your interest throughout even when a third of book is spent between 2 characters discussing the past of the protagonist. Plus with another slam-bang ending & more ominous pointers to the future The Lovers was definitely a fantastic tale and after The Black Angel is my 2nd favorite in the Charlie Parker series.
*******************************************
5] The Ghosts of Belfast by Stuart Neville
Another debut title which heralded talent was The Ghosts of Belfast/The Twelve by Stuart Neville. This book was another tale which while having clichéd characters managed to upturn them and surprise the readers. Stuart Neville sets this story in Dublin where an ex-hitman remises about his past and who is also harangued by his mistakes as 12 innocent souls continue to be seen by him. The tale is dark and so is the setting as seen in the review. Stuart Neville is definitely someone to look out for in the future based on the potential showcased here. His second book Collision is also set in the same world and is a sort of sequel with different characters.
*******************************************
6] Kell's Legend by Andy Remic
This book was Andy Remic's take on fantasy, his first foray in the field which had enamored him & probably inspired him to become an author in his own right. In his previous books Andy had shown his madcap characters and brazen plots & sheer breakneck plot twists. Now he's bought all of that & also shown his view of Gemmellian setting in this trilogy opener. This book definitely was 1 of the best rollercoaster rides for me & I'm hooked onto the Clockwork Vampire saga.
*******************************************
7] Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child
Cemetery Dance was a return after nearly 2 years to the world of A.X.L. Pendergast by Messrs Preston & Child & it wasn't a happy return of sorts for the readers as the opening chapters dealt with the death of 1 of PC's beloved characters. As the review details this book was a good one, better than its predecessor "The Wheel of Darkness" and a much applauded return to techno-horror roots by the duo. Next year is the start of the Helen [Pendergast's wife] trilogy which will be a landmark event for all fans as we get to see into his past and learn of many events which made him what he is today.
*******************************************
8]The Shadow Pavilion by Liz Williams
Liz Williams is a multi-faceted individual and this shows even here in her writing as she flits across genres as seen by her novels, short stories and novellas. The Inspector Chen series is a curious amalgamation of Chinese Mythology, Urban fantasy & SF, the previous three books were tremendous reads and in this one Liz Williams decides to broaden her horizons by crossing the Himalayan border This story was another great addition to the saga and has specified a great direction for the remaining books in the series making "The Iron Khan" another Must-read for me next year.
*******************************************
9] The Doomsday Key by James Rollins
With James Rollins readers who love his style are always assured of a smooth & intriguing read. Since the start of the SIGMA series with Sandstorm James has rather heightened the stakes. In the 5th outing of the SIGMA crew Gray has to make a choice between 2 important people in his life and at the same time figure out a solution to the main crisis as given in the review. After the end of this book with a mini cliffhanger James has set the stage for the next book which will have fans salivating for the identity of the character, the clash between SIGMA & Guild & possibly various deaths as well.
*******************************************
10] Angelglass by David Barnett
This book was brought to my attention by Liviu & after I read the excerpt I knew I had to get it. The detailed & beguiling review by Liviu, tells us about the dual time line story which is written smoothly by the author and the conclusion while a surprise is a fitting end to the tale. David Barnett shows a flair for the fantastic and as Liviu says in the review "we have a novel that at about 240 pages in length packs the narrative heft of a 500 page one." Definitely a novel deserving to be read more.
*******************************************
11] The Gods of Amyrantha by Jennifer Fallon
This series was my introduction to wonderful world of Jennifer Fallon After the super first novel Jennifer doesn't disappoint in her build up to her eventual climax in book 4, things go from weird to crazy in this book as new complications arise and totally new plot possibilities are hinted at & oh the book ends with a super revelation. This lady knows her stuff & I have already read the third book so I know it just keeps on getting better (or worse for some characters).
*******************************************
12]Damnable by Hank Schwaeble
This was another worthwhile debut for me as Hank Schwaeble took the Jack Reacher prototype and spun it on its head & while doing so gave another cool character to follow. Jake Hatcher is something of an enigma and I very much look forward to reading more about him & the world created in Damnable. Kudos to Hank for giving us a tale which has straddles effortlessly the fine line between 2 genres (horror & thriller) and still manages to surprise the reader in the end.
*******************************************
13] Fugitive by Phillip Margolin
Phillip Margolin is a hidden gem in the mystery-thriller market, all of his past books have been NYT bestsellers and yet he keeps on plugging his way to give us such wonderfully thrilling books. Fugitive is the 4th book in the Amanda Jaffe series and it has the usual Margolin trademarks of a wide cast of characters, devious plotting and a great story. One of the highlights of this series is that the author only brings out a book if he feels the plot matches the characters & is suitable and thus every book when its released becomes a must read for me. Another delectable read and Phillip proves once again why he can be relied upon for some sumptuous reading.
*******************************************
14] Songspinners by Sarah Ash
Songspinners was published in 1997, however it was my bad luck that I managed to read it so late. That being said it is a book which is my favorite amongst all her titles. It's a book about the right to freedom and the ability to live one's life with dignity & happiness. I wasn't able to review it but this review from Amazon encapsulates a lot as to why I loved this book. For those readers already into Sarah's books this book can be considered to be a sequel of sorts to The Alchymist's Legacy duology as some of the characters in it are featured prominently in this book.
*******************************************
15] Neuropath by Scott Bakker
As far as serial killer stories go, Neuropath was a landmark serial killer novel wherein the Modus Operandi of the antagonist was described sparingly but it did not diminish its chillingness. R. Scott Bakker proves veritably that when it comes to philosophical prose & complex plots he's definitely leagues ahead of his contemporaries.
*******************************************
16] Nights of Villjamur by Mark C. Newton
This book was a major surprise read for me, I didn't know what to expect with this and MCN certainly surprised me a lot with this book primarily its settings and varied characters as seen in the FBC review. This is a book to be savored and its sequel is looked forward gladly.
*******************************************
17] Genghis: Bones of the Hills by Conn Iggulden
I'm a lover of Historical fantasy and Conn Iggulden is a particular favorite of mine his Genghis Khan novels are a treat to read, granted he tells the stories with some modifications but he does acknowledge them in the afterword and also it just is absolutely wonderful on the part of the author when you end up rooting for a character & people whom you know historically to be barbaric plunderers. The story of Genghis Khan ends with this book however the Mongol saga will be extended for another 3 books which entails the stories of his Children and Grandchildren. 2010 will see the release of Ogedai: Empire of Silver which is another title which will be on my Must-read list.
*******************************************
18] The Burning Skies by David Williams
After last year's Mirrored Heavens David J. Williams has established himself as writer with a crazy but scary vision of the future. In the 2nd installment of the Autumn Rain Trilogy he proves that he wasn't a one shot wonder. With another slam-bang ending involving a cliffhanger, the Machinery of Light is rather urgently awaited to see how it all ends. And based on his current 2 books I'm sure it will be something which will surprise the readers.
*******************************************
19] Flight into Darkness by Sarah Ash
Sarah Ash is another favourite of mine and with this book she bring to an end to "The Alchymist's legacy" duology however the icing on the cake is that this book also ties in with her original Artamon trilogy and this book showcases events which take place in that series but from a different perspective and with the addition of several other plot elements. It also gives the fans a nice glimpse into the events which have taken place after the monumental climax in the "Children of the serpent gate" and shows the aftermath which also ties in wonderfully with the events of this duology. A resounding conclusion to a fine story begun in "Tracing the Shadow" and again very much recommended to fans of Terry Brooks, Robin Hobb & James Clemens.
*******************************************
20] Darkborn by Alison Sinclair
Alison Sinclair took a biological route with the light-dark motif and has come up with a remarkable setting. The tale is quite a straight forward one and comes to a logical conclusion. The sequel Lightborn will reveal the intricacies of this world further as it basically shows the readers the viewpoint from the side of the light.
*******************************************
2009 YA top 5:
I haven't read as many YA books as compared to my SFF reads and so I'll be limiting it to only 5, for those interested in YA titles look out for Cindy's[resident YA expert] list on it.
1] Lockdown: Escape from Furnace by A. Gordon Smith
This was perhaps the 1 of the best YA books I have ever read and it was a rollercoaster of a ride all the way. A. Gordon Smith has done his absolute best to make sure that reader expectations will constantly be upturned & even ends the book on a resounding cliffhanger making the next 2 books which are already released on the other side of the pond utterly crave able.
*******************************************
2] Jake Ransom & the Skull King's Shadow by James
Rollins
This book would have made # 1 if it were not for Gordon's crackerjack of a book. This book has all the Rollins trademarks such as engaging characters, amazing locales and this one was laced with dinosaurs as well. I wasn't able to review it an error which I'll definitely rectify with its sequel Jake Ransom and the Howling Sphinx.
*******************************************
3] The Gates by John Connolly
This book was an experiment and I'm glad John Connolly wrote it. Utterly hilarious in itself and with a simple plotline, this book was 1 of best comedic books for me. Many of the lines show John's trademark humour and with the scientific footnotes in it this book easily entertained and educated. If John ever does write a sequel to it, it will be fun to see what happens afterwards.
*******************************************
4] The Stone Child by Dan Poblocki
The stone child was a book meant for Children and adults who loved scary stories when they were children. This debut effort deals with a classic mystery of a missing author and the clues left behind in a book. Dan Poblocki combines smart prose with an active imagination to give us the mystery of the Stone Child.
*******************************************
5] The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - I had heard about this book since its release last year and after reading it I'm in complete agreement with its popularity and hype across readers.
*******************************************
2009 debuts or debuts which I read in 2009:
1] The Painted man/The Warded Man by Peter V. Brett – This was the debut of this year for me, granted I haven't read that many titles in many genres but this book totally captivated me and made this series and Peter V Brett, something to look out for in the future.
*******************************************
2] The Ghosts of Belfast by Stuart Neville – Another debut which will be long remembered and cherished. Stuart Neville is another author whose books are on my buy list.
*******************************************
3] Damnable by Hank Schwaeble – Hank Schwaeble's book is another hidden gem which has gone unheralded. With a tight ending to it, I look eagerly to what Hanks's devious mind comes up with.
*******************************************
4] Armageddon Bound by Tim Marquitz – Armageddon Bound was laced with deadpan, self depreciating humor, tremendous action & a protagonist who while appearing as a nasty bloke will have you rooting for him in no time. Tim Marquitz really surprised me with this book & as far as UF books go, I'm hoping that more readers discover this gem [Jim Butcher fans will absolutely relish this one] after PBV's The Demon world series, it's the Demon squad series which I'm excited about (in terms of new series potential)
*******************************************
5] Haunting Bombay by Shilpa Agarwal – HB was a trip worth reading. Shilpa Agarwal managed to make the Bombay I know personally into an exotic & semi-mystical place to which even I'm curious to visit. This book set in the 1960s Bombay was a veritable trip as seen through the various characters. Shilpa Agarwal is definitely deserving of many awards and with her next book I hope she manages to hit several bestseller lists as well.
*******************************************
6] Under the Amoral Bridge by Gary A. Ballard - This book was 1 of my first cyberpunk novels and I'm absolutely loved this one. A bit on the shorter side with 170 pages, the author has coiled quite a strong punch in it for the readers. After finishing this book, I immediately followed on to the 2nd book in the series & that one absolutely rocked, making Gary A. Ballard an author to look out for and definitely someone who should be read more.
*******************************************
7] Adamantine Palace by Stephen Deas
Robert's review amped this one on my list and even though I was able to get my hands on it, I wasn't able to read it earlier. Stephen Deas has written quite a fast paced tale which makes you follow the plot anxiously and even though the book ends rather too quickly for the readers liking. It still will make you want you to pick its sequel "The King of Crags"
*******************************************
8] Father of Locks by Andrew Kileen - This book would have escaped me if not for Liviu's excellent review. And as stated this book is an absolute delight for those readers interested in an Arabian Nights-esque world, add to that a rather belligerent & baffling protagonist. This book was tantalizing enough to look forward to the next AK book which features the titular character Abu Nuwas yet again.
*******************************************
9] The Crown Conspiracy by Michael Sullivan – This was another surprise read for me as I, probably with lots of others, wouldn't have even heard of it if it were not for Liviu's review. This book does start of as a typical fantasy caper but the characters make it stand out and while the ending is a rather simple one, it does have ominous pointers for the rest of the books which I plan to catch soon.
*******************************************
10] Nuclear Winter Wonderland by Joshua Corin - This was a weirdly funny ride. I absolutely loved the author's plot and characters which constantly kept on haranguing the protagonist further and further from his goal. The book has a quirky side to it and it just kept me hooked till its very end, which with it lead-up was quirkier and ended on a happy note for the long-suffering central protagonist.
*******************************************
BOOKS WHICH I MISSED OUT ON: These were the books which I wanted to catch but somehow didn't & hence I wasn't able to include them in any of the lists above.
1] Best Served Cold by Joe Abercrombie
2] Avempartha by Michael J. Sullivan
3] Naamah's Kiss by Jacqueline Carey
4] The Rats and the Ruling Sea by Robert V. Redick
5] The Cardinal's Blades by Pierre Pevel
6] The Strain by Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan
7] Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins.
