Book Review: A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

For February's book selection, I chose to read a book that my mother likes, A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin.

Summary: The book follows the live and politics of the great families of Westoros. It must be noted that if you thought this was a historical fiction,you would be wrong. I have seen some people try to say it is historical fiction but it is quite obvious that it is not. There is amazing power struggles and intrigue within the relationships of the families. I do not want to give too much away because this is a popular series with new viewers everyday.

My opinion: The television series follows the book quite closely. At first, I thought I was going to be a Danny fanatic but it turns out I am a Tyrin follower. I will have to say that after reading the first book, I binged on the television series and cannot wait for the next season to come out.

This was my second monthly book challenge. I would not read this series on my own. However, Martin's writing is captivating and held my interest. I was fascinated and I am planning the other books but have finished season 4 of the television series.  Normally, I would not read this genre but I do not regret it. If you have not read this series, I would highly recommend it.

Happy Reading!

Book Review:The Witch of Portobello by Paulo Coelho

I know that I have been gone for awhile. I have taken on some roles that I had to shed and some that were more important. Things got pretty hectic causing me to prioritize, re-organize, and get back on track. One of the things on my list is my book reviews. Even if not one person reads this blog, I think it is helpful to have these reviews just for my understanding of the book. I am going to start from the beginning of the year with my monthly book challenges and then fill in with the other books I have read in between them. So without further adieu......

January 2015 Book Challenge: A book with magic
Selection: The Witch of Portobello by Paulo Coelho (http://paulocoelhoblog.com/)

Summary: The story follows the life and times of a woman who was adopted by a Lebanese couple after her Romani mother could not keep her child conceived out of wedlock. After the family moved to England due to civil war in their native country. The main character becomes fascinated by numerology, dance, calliography, and the trance-like powers of dance. The book explores the goddess aspect of religion and how we all long for her motherly embrace.

My opinion: I thought this was a very interesting book. Set in the modern times and told through the point of view of the main character's friends & family, it gave an interesting point of view of how on could look at the way of religion/cult. Athena never wanted to become a cult figure but never shied away from it either. Even though, there was no magic as in the fantasy sense, there was definitely magic in the way Athena handled her relationships with people. The ending has a nice plot twist even though somewhat predictable it was very interesting.

On my book page scale (10 being the highest), I give this book 8 pages. I am currently looking for some additional Paulo Coelho books to add to my library.

What are you reading? Send me an e-mail (ravingwitch@gmail.com) and let me know. I am always looking for more great reads.

If you have not heard of this podcast, BookRiot (http://bookriot.com/category/podcast/)  has weekly podcast all about books. There is an app for your smartphone and I highly recommend it.

I wish you a good book and a great cup of tea,

Kris