• Female Protagonist is tough but also vulnerable. Isn't whiney, grating, super perfect and holier than thou, etc. She appears quite well rounded, has a back story, isn't all about the attitude and seems to be on the journey of discovery just as much as the reader. She's witty, has certain character flaws and habits that make you smile as the series progresses and you can see her character develop as the books wear on.
• Engaging set of characters that appear very well thought out. Love Lord Nightshade and Severn. More please. <3
• An amazingly interesting world. It's not like anything else I've read.
• Story includes discovering/understanding various cultures of the world it's set in and I think that part is handled really beautifully.
• Its pacey and doesn't lag.
• Very re-readable due to the engaging way it's written.
  

Beautiful.

But now I await impatiently for the next book, Cast in Chaos. Grrr!

So what does this mean? Means I intend to use this journal as a writing dumping ground again. They say (one day I'll figure out this mythical *they*), that the more you write, the better you get at it, and I intend to test this theory out right now and from hereon or something. However, expect to see some teething problems and then some. But what the heck, best to start in the present, surely?

What shall I write about? Politics? Other "serious" matters? Or perhaps something more of a superficial nature? Perhaps all three? Hmmm...

Politics

The doolally topic of the moment here in the UK appears to be about the release of Al-Megrahi. I have heard and read some fantastical things in my time, but the whole boycott Scotland and the UK response in relation to this story, made me chuckle. Where once upon a time, I would have been outraged, as expected of a patriot-in-denial (hey, Scotland IS part of the UK, k?), I can only just laugh having seen the outcome of the Freedom Fries movement. Perhaps that's apathy, I'm not entirely sure. But it does seem to be a waste of time, energy and it screams mindless mob mentality. When will we stop playing sheep? Of course, *they* say it's only a minority reacting this way.

To summarise, my opinion on this matter: It's a convoluted combination of some people requiring a face to *terrorism*, thus it being easier to recognise and hate the/an enemy - something we don't really have a face of aside from OBL and a few others in some exotic land elsewhere. Politics in terms of future businesses with Libya by the power-that-be in London and beyond, especially given Gadaffi's 40 year reign et celebration(s) - and so, I don't doubt that this has been brewing for a while. And the Scottish Government in charge of judicial affairs wanting to make a statement of their independence of Whitehall, when this has only shown to weaken them as it currently stands - "Oh those tardy Scots, being cute by pretending to be independent of us in the South. We're the ones having the last laugh having it gone according to plan and all... *scoffscoffscoff*".

In conclusion, we'll all forget about this in a few months anyway. So how about some Freedom haggis in the interim?

Other Serious Matters

The heading does sound ominous.  I'll try to make sure the content lives up to such lofty expectations or something, however I make no promises. But first, what the heck is this?



See, I can understand pole dancing for kids to keep them fit or something (sort of), and even then that's quite a stretch (pun actually not intended here). But this is really really in poor taste. Of course, this is coming from a girl playing "Fashion Wars" on Facebook, where the user starts from being Daddy's girl to Shopoholic, Trendsetter and so forth - tmi? Hmm.What I am saying is, although I am no a paragon of virtue, I can't imagine seeing this as a suitable toy for a young girl. It just doesn't scream responsible, or even fun for that matter. One wonders if this is even aimed at kids?

Oh this reminds me, I saw this Barbie bag for adults and thought, why?!




Admittedly, I was never into Barbie as a kid; I much preferred my sibling's Scalectrix set, which always had me in a fit of envy. I digress.  I just don't understand this bag at all. Like at all. Why would you buy this? Answers on a postcard please.

Yes these are much serious matters!

Of Books & Fantasies

It's quite sad, but I haven't really taken part in any book challenges this year. I've just been reading when I have felt like it - okay, so it is not exactly a novel concept.  But it does mean that the figures do not compare to last year. Of course I'm saying this having just successfully bought the following five on Amazon:

 




Books, mmmmmmm. I wish I had some new ones right now, what with being on sick leave and all. Le sigh.

Oh, I was also excited to read about the return of scott_lynch of Locke Lamora fame after updates on his LJ. *cue much squeeing - shameful that I would still feel like doing such things...*

And, Adieu

I now leave you with some random facts:

• On the 3rd of September 1939 - Britain and France, declare war on Germany in response to Hitler's invasion of Poland.
• Turtles can breathe through their butts - a useful fact to impress your friends with, no doubt.
• The most common name in the world is Mohammed - one wonders how this was figured out, given the number of people in the world. However, it is common for Muslim male members to add this on as their first name - sometimes much later on in life and all.
• Walt Disney was afraid of mice. Mmmmm...

Facts as seen and read on Wiki and the Random Facts site.

Adios.

Yes, I've been furiosuly refreshing his blog in the hopes that he'd update it with his London visit. I've never met any of my favourite authors (even though there's more than a fair few in that category), so I'm really keen to see this come into fruition. I want to get my copy of the book signed and take a picture with him, yes </squeefangirlness>! 

For those unawares of this great author, he made a truly terrific debut with The Name of the Wind.



Have you met any of your favourite authors?

It's such a brilliant little book, better than the previous two in the series, which I didn't think was possible. The characters have developed so much more. I loved learning more about Kate as things start to fall into place, especially towards the end of the book. We also see more Jim (yay) and obviously Curran (yumyum - I won't say any further), and I found the plot with the Hindu mysticism, fascinatingly told. It was a brilliant romp of a book in soooo many ways. Fans of the series will not be disappointed. :D

THANKKKK YOUUUUU!

Now I wait for Kate 4.
Pleeeeeeaase!

</squee...mebbe>

45. Lord of the Fading Lands - CL Wilson
46. Lady of Light and Shadows - CL Wilson

While they were twee at the beginning of the book with the whole soul-mate principle thing (I thought nooo), I started to get a real affinity for the books, especially the end of the first one with all the fantasy lore of the world falling into place. Not bad. Not bad at all.

But most importantly, I am on course to reading 50 books within the first half of this year. W00t!

Goals and reaching milestones makes me happy. People tell me that it's not fun setting book reading goals, but I say try telling that Dulcetfida kid.

So I made this public blog entry about Litvinenko and my uneasiness about all things Russian Government, and like always I put in my statcounter code as I like to see where I'm getting my hits from. Today I noticed this interesting entry in my statcounter log:



I may be counting the 1s and 2s all wrong, but then again perhaps one thing has something to do with the other...

Coincidence?! You decide.

My first ever *Squeeeeeeeee* post, but the heart is doing crazy pitter-patter at the following:

"The Wizard of Oz casting announced at Royal Festival Hall: Sian Brooke, Adam Cooper, Roy Hudd, Julie Legrand, Hilton McRae, Gary Wilmot"

Ahem, you have been warned:

*SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE*

I'm so going to go and watch him...again! WOOT WOOT!
Obligatory picture post of said wonderful individual:




Swoon-some.

</fan-girl>

It's not like I fancy him, want to marry him and have his babies (well, perhaps not by much),  but the way he moves and the performances he has given, c'est magnifique. One might call it electric even. For those in the not-know, he played a small part in the film Billy Elliot, as the grown up version of the aforementioned character, but that's only the tip of the iceberg really.

P.S. He was brilliant as Sky Masterson. Yum.

Anyone else a fan-girl of individuals from the celeb/performing world? Or what was the last thing that made you SQUUUEEEEEEE?

:p

The story of Litvinenko and what happened to him in London, haunts me to this very day. I find myself frequently looking up new information on him and what's happened since, maybe I do this in the hopes that he and his widow finally receive justice, as is their due. But perhaps that's the optimistic in me thinking along those lines.

There's something about that case which really strikes all the cords. I'm sure my dislike for all things Russian politics and their systematic  approach to getting rid of dissenting voices has some part to play in it. He represents to me all the people that have been wronged and let down by those in power. He also represents to me how the powerful can get away with doing the most heinous of things, exacting a terrible price on those that try to stand up for the alleged truth. He's not the only one of course. I also think of Anna Politkovskaya, yet they're the more known figures in this fight, but by no means the most important or even the only important figures.

I stumbled across this documentary film review a few hours ago, so I thought I'd post it here in the hopes of attracting attention of those that have seen it. It's related to Litvinenko of course. Anyone interested in watching it?

Rebellion: the Litvinenko Case (no cert)

The week's other documentary is billed as 'a testimony' by Andrei Nekrasov, drawing on interviews the film-maker conducted with dissident spy Alexander Litvinenko before the latter's death by poisoning in November 2006. The film can't make the ties between Russian politicians, oligarchs and security forces any easier to fathom out; what it does is to make them murkier and more fascinating, either by what Nekrasov intuits (alleged links between Premier Putin and the Stasi, for one) or how such intelligence is presented.

Superb use is made of footage that looks as though it's been smuggled out itself: of police brutality, neo-Nazi rampages, hushed nocturnal conversations in which Litvinenko expresses fear for his family's lives.

The director is of the Moore/Broomfield school of documentary- makers unafraid to put themselves on camera, though here that stance looks more like bravery than egotism. Putting himself out there results in at least one real coup towards the end of this gripping, often chilling investigation: an encounter with Andrei Lugovoi, prime suspect in Litvinenko's murder. 'Would you like a cup of tea?' Lugovoi asks casually. 'No thanks,' is the response. A wise man, this comrade Nekrasov.

Review from the Telegraph

I think I might have to see this for myself, though I'm usually more of a fan of textual media. I just hope they continue in their fight for truth and justice.

Conspiracy Theories

In regards to Chechnya, I personally can't discount any of the theories given the systematic need for secrecy and controlled information from the Kremlin. Am I just a fool of a believer amongst the herd? I like to think I'm just cautious and cynical when it comes to all things controlled media and controlled Government to the degree that exists over there.

Is there a case/news item that you feel incredibly strongly about? Any thoughts on the Litvinenko case? Perhaps even alternative views? Do share.

Quite randomly, here are some of my favourite things(5 to be precise):

1. The animal game that I've invented for my two ickle cousins. They're 3 and 4, and what I do is this, put some really weird music in the background (unsuitable stuff like, "Low" by Flo Rider), and then shout out the name of an animal. And then dance like said animal until I or they shout out the next animal. Who woulda thunk that it could be so much fun? We danced like a monkey, a bird, giraffe, tiger, lion and an elephant. You should try it sometime. Especially with hyper kids that have WAYYYY too much energy. It gives them something to focus towards and I think its great stuff for learning brains.

2. I enjoy looking up at the clouds whilst lying back on a blanket in the park. Ever played the cloud formation game? You watch the skies from below, and try to make out shapes. It gives me such great pleasures doing this really simple thing. A beautiful clear sky is a must for this. Bonus points for making others see the same as you.

3.  Fantasy book that deserves a mention:



Looks are definitely deceiving. I still dislike the covers of her two books and I also find the title disarmingly childish, however do not judge it by its covers, especially if you have had the similar snobby attitude as I have just displayed for you right now. 

After the terrible disappointment of the books by C.E. Murphy (well the House of Cards helped redeem her somewhat) I found this to be just the breath of fresh air that I needed. It's fun, with a great story. It has wonderfully rendered lively characters, and just the right amount of humour. I loved it. I think everyone should read it, even if fantasy books are not their cup of tea.   It's fun, witty, the main character is a doll and the situation unique. Sure there's a quest element to it, but hey, it's a FANTASY book. You pay for what's written on the tin.

So yeah, do read it. Though start with the first book, "Magic lost, Trouble found".

Have you found any books with covers that put you off but later on find the book totally worth it? I can think of one particular book that falls into that category. You might have heard of this little known book. Ahem. Harry Potter. :p

4. Reality TV. I'm a sucker for the following:

ANTM
BNTM
The Apprentice

I have to watch all of them. 

I also not-so-secretly think that I could win the Apprentice, had I the inclination of wanting to get on that show of course. Alas, the end prize does not interest me in the slightest.  Sorry Sir Alan Sugar. It's just not happening dear.

5. Weekends of not going out. I enjoy not going out. Yes I really am 23 and not some 70 year old fuddy-duddy or whatever the stereotype for such a thing is.  I enjoy curling up with a book, hanging around downstairs in the reception rooms chatting to my siblings or just generally enjoying the comfort of silence all around. I know that it's not forever and perhaps that's why I make sure that I enjoy it while I still can, relatively young and responsibility-free that I am.

Let me have my moment of silence, aye? :)

Now tell me. What's five of your favourite things at the moment?

Book challenge

Time for an update of my book challenge me thinks:

30. SW - JM
31. DS - JM
32. Heart of Stone
33. House of Cards
34. Armed & Magical
35. TMoY - JL

I'm pretty certain I'll reach my 50 before mid June or end of June or whatever.  I still have yet to finish those books I mentioned on my to-be-read books and I ended up buying a couple more in addition to the recent Amazon purchase. I really DO need a home library to keep them in. But that's another story in itself.

And with a flourish, I leave you. <3

I can eat egg fried sandwiches at any time of the day so I would choose that as my first primary favourite.

Chips (french fries) would be quite another snacky thing I could eat at any time of the day/year. The healthier option would be some carrots.

Thirdly, tomato soup (preferably with bread). Soups are wonderful things in that they are on the right side of fulfilling and healthy.

I would probably substitute one of the last two for some dessert actually. Something like yummy vanilla cheese cake or a Victorian sponge cake. YUM!

Of course I'd end up HUGE, but I know I could never get sick of them.

And You? :p

I feel too embarrassed to answer knowing I have at least 40+ and I wear not more than 5 on a regular basis. I'm sure I wore at least 20 different pairs last year mind. There's about a dozen that I haven't even worn once, despite that rainy/sunny day arriving and all. But I know if I was to see an interesting pair of shoes on the morrow, I would be the first to buy it without a second thought. It's a terrible terrible spending habit really.

Egads!

I hope I'm not the only one with this shoe problem. Right? Right?!!

These are 10 things I expect my friends to know about me.
Tick them off as you please and do note the rest away as I might quiz you on this!

That:
1. I am from London. That's in the blog title, ja? :p
2. I graduated with a BSc Computer Science with Management at the age of 20.
3. That the first book that inspired me to be something in life was actually Nancy Drew and I wanted to be a PI. I was 11 at the time.
4. For all my friends and family, my babbling and rambling, I'm a private person at heart.
5. I dislike bananas, pork, beef, alcohol and anything that one can smoke. These things make me physically ill.
6. I am passionate about knowledge, humanity, international relations, diplomatic efforts and hold a deep contempt for a lot of politicians and powerful figures that shape our society.
7. I am generally a happy, bouncy individual. Emphasis on the bounce.
8. That I have a sort of phobia of all things bees, spiders, quite a few creepy crawly insect and height.
9.  I LOVE books, particularly fantasy and Liverpool FC (the football club).
10.  I am deeply loyal.

Iterating things you already know, of course.

What 10 things must I know about you?

I can't believe the City of London. I just don't get it. HOW COULD THEY?! How could they vote for someone as clueless with the general public of London as Alexander Boris De Pfeffel Johnson? Have they not seen in him in Have I got News for You?! We did not laugh WITH him when he was on there, we laughed AT HIM during his popularity on that show. It makes me cringe inside just thinking about how we as the general public have CHOSEN him to represent us. What does it say? That we're a city of buffoons? For surely leaders are figureheads and representatives of the population that have elected them. And I haven't even gotten onto his policies.

I'm furious with Londoners. You disappoint me greatly.

I had Ken as my first choice and Paddick from the Lib Dems as my second. I could trust them to be shrewd at the very least. Now we're stuck with this colossal mistake and a gaffe waiting to happen.

Bah.

I think I'm going to pressure myself to finish reading these new books that have been piling up for a while now; it's most unlike me. What better way to do this, than to mention them publicly and put myself under pressure as a result, eh? Lets hope the pressure to finish them mounts and that I finish these books with aplomb; books that have been accumulating as a result of this smaller matter of work, heh. :p

The list:

1. The Red Wolf Conspiracy - Robert V. S. Redick (and I was soooo looking forward to this book and all)
2. Empress - Karen Miller (as above, I just jumped and bought it because I loved her previous offerings)
3. Darkness that comes before - R. Scott Bakker
4. Wizard's First Rule - Terry Goodkind

The plan is to finish them over the coming week alone. I want to update my 50 book challenge! However, I expect disruptions in the form of new book distractions.

What's on your to-read asap list?

I have only just got to doing this post, woops my bad. Here is the official "add me" and "lets be friends" post. For those that have stumbled on here by accident, do post here to let me know.

:)

Book lover that I am, [oh how I love to read], I was looking through the various LJ book communities on this very topic, when I happened upon one that interested me; the 50bookchallenge.  The rules on there were simple; read 50 books within a year. That got me thinking a little. I wondered how many I had already read within this year as I mentally counted the various book covers that have passed before me during this time period of 2008, and it's fair to say that there's been quite a few that's for sure.

Here are the books I remember reading in the year 2008 (not including my re-reads of the same book within the year 2008):

1. Poison Study - Maria V Snyder (Study series)
2. Magic Study - Maria V Snyder (Study series)
3. Fire Study - Maria V Snyder (Study series)
4. Magic Bites - Ilona Andrews (Kate Daniels series)
5. Magic Burns - Ilona Andrews (Kate Daniel series)
6. The High King's Tomb - Kristen Britain (Green Rider series :p)
7. The Name of the wind - Patrick Rothfuss (The Kingkiller Chronicles)
8. Cast in Shadows - Michelle Segara West
9. Cast in Courtlight - Michelle Segara West
10. Cast in Secret - Michelle Segara West
11. Magic lost, Trouble Found - Lisa Shearin
12. The Awakened Mage - Karen Miller
13. The Book Thief - Markus Zusak
14. The Blood King - Gail Martinez (Chronicles of a Necromancer)
15. Voice of the Gods - Trudi Canavan (Age of the Five)
16. Changer of Days - Alma Alexander
17. Blood Engines - T. A. Pratt
18. Poison Sleep - T. A. Pratt
19. Dark Lover - JR Ward (don't ask! - I saw a review on this fun blog, alas the infectious review didn't quite mean a great book in the making)

I probably have read other things but I don't remember.

I think I'm going to see how quickly I can reach that 50 book mark. I don't doubt that I would reach it sooner rather than later, bearing in mind how I used to read about 35+ in a month once upon a  time. Ha. But I would be disappointed if I don't get there by mid year, regardless of the things on my plate, both work and family wise.

How many have you read this year? Come on, take up the challenge with me, even if your reading stack screams "Fantasy" like mine.