Books. Books. Books. I've read (well, listened on audiobook to) more books than I thought I would this year! From Historical novels of various eras, to magical Lands of Fantasy, to paranormal books about Angels, Carpathians, Werewolf's, Vampires and... (oh, yes)Shadowhunters!!
Out of my reads of this year, here's the books I enjoyed most in (sort of) chronological order:-
1. A Time of Singing - Elizabeth Chadwick
You always feel in good hands with Elizabeth Chadwick. This book tells the story of Roger Bigod and Ida De Tosney in 12th Century England, set against the life, intrigue and politics of the Angevin Court.
2. The Falcons of Montabard - Elizabeth Chadwick
Good read. I found it brought vividly to life Scotland and the Holy Land of the 1100's. I learnt alot about the Holy Land and surrounding areas that I hadn't known before.
3. The Mortal Instruments Series - Cassandra Clare
I read books 1 to 4 and can't wait for the next in this urban fantasy series. Interesting world and characters I loved and cared about. My favourite is book 3 'City of Glass', although the scene at the Seelie Court in book 2 'City of Ashes' has to be one of my favourite scenes ever!! Me and my mum re-read that part lots!
4. The Infernal Devices Series - Cassandra Clare
I really enjoyed these. Interesting and atmospheric, bringing to life Victorian England with a good dose of fantasy/Steampunk! A variety of great charcters with many laughs and touching moments too. Loved the attic scene! My fave is "Clockwork Angel" but both book 1 and 2 are wonderful.
Audiobook read fantastically by Jennifer Ehle.
5. The Prince of Hazel and Oak - John Lenahan
The second book in this funny magical trilogy, (the first being 'Shadowmagic'). Me, my Mum and Dad all listened to this on Podiobook and loved as much as the first book. Following the continuing adventures of Connor in Tir na nog, along with a great cast of supporting characters - including the fiery Princess Essa!
John Lenahan reads these books great www.podiobooks.com
6. Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
"My Classic" read of the year. I was pleasantly surprised as I didn't expect to like it so much - I loved it! Now I know what everyone goes on about...
7. The Earth's Children Series - Jean M Auel
I read books 1 and 2 'The clan of the cave bear' and 'The valley of horses'. I found them a bit slow paced - rather like an epic easy moving film - but the way the prehistoric world is brought to life is fascinating. Loved Ayla's character.
Audiobook well read by Rowena Cooper.
8. Dark Legend - Christine Feehan
Gabriel and Francesca's story. Gabriel is one of the legendary brothers, an ancient Carpathian hunter who wakes from the earth to unexpectedly come across his lifemate - kind and gentle healer Francesca.
I felt this book was well written with a good storyline, I enjoyed the relationship between Gabriel and Francesca very much. Interesting, as it was different to the relationships between characters of previous novels in the Dark series.
Enjoyed the audiobook read by Rebecca Cook
9. Dark Guardian - Christine Feehan
I've waited 7 years to read this book! When I discovered the Dark series it was Dark Guardian I first came across. Fast forward and I finally get to read it - and I wasn't disappointed! Lucien is an interesting character - the most powerful of his people - and he and Jaxon make a good team. I found this the most comical of all the Dark series books and laughed out loud a number of times - always a good sign!
Juanita Parker reads many of the Dark series on audio and her performance is always good.
Out of all the good books I've read this year, my favourite has to be Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare.
