The Kingdom and the Crown, Gerald N. Lund

I was pleasantly surprised with this trilogy. When I started looking at reading the first book, I was a bit skeptical and worried about remembering all the names and places - however, it was a simple read and so intriguing! I think I would like to re-read all of them again. I learned so much about the life of Christ in a context and wording that was easier than the New Testament - plus it had extra information and explanation about life at the time of Christ.

These books are fabulous! Well written in all regards! What a daunting task to take history and text from the Bible and interlace it with fiction, but Lund masterfully did it! What a fantastic read!

The Eight, Katherine Neville

I just finished this book. Has anyone heard of it or read it? I thought it was an interesting concept - however, the writing style was difficult. For those who like wordy detailed accounts of things that don't necessarily pertain to the story - this would be great.

I have to admit, there was a lot of history to mull through - and I had to finish it ... but, 598 pages was a bit much ... The plot could have felt more intense to the reader if it hadn't been as wordy.

If any of you have read this, tell me what you think of the end? I thought the romance was too sudden and not enough build up to make it believable. Two of the other characters would have made more believable love interests.

And finally, the wrap up was so quick, was her editor hunting her down on a deadline? I also didn't like the ending because it seemed to say people are mostly power hungry - even the really good ones. So, this is why I'm wondering if anyone else has read this and would like to share their insight - perhaps it will make me feel better about having drudged through this epic book.

Outlander - Historical Fiction by Diana Gabaldon

This amazing work of historical fiction is so moving that you won't be able to put it down. Don't feel daunted by the size of the book - the bigger the better is my opinion...but don't tell my husband that! This book covers the Scottish highland clan wars during the 1800's. Picture strong Scottish warriors, and lots of kilts. It has a splash of fantasy thrown in to spice it up. I've read the series 3 times now, and there are 7 so far - they're that good! Enjoy!

Renee Clancy