Fine Printings

Elemental Assassin Series by Jennifer Estep

2011-06-04T18:45:00.000-04:00

Book Description

Bodies litter the pages of Estep's engrossing Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series. In the corrupt Southern metropolis of Ashland, weather witches mingle with vampires, giants, and dwarves. In the first novel, Spider's Bite, a mysterious client hires assassin Gin Blanco, known as the Spider, to murder a whistle-blowing financial officer named Gordon Giles. Then the client attempts a double cross and brutally kills Gin's mentor. Now Gin, a stone elemental with a hard-boiled attitude, a closely guarded heart, and a penchant for throwing knives, has to join forces with one of the few honest cops in Ashland, sexy detective Donovan Caine, who hates her for killing his partner.

Fine Printing’s Review

Love this urban fantasy series, but warning, if you cannot handle gore DO NOT READ IT! These books are a definite nail bitter, and bloody dramatic. So much fun though! Gin is one of the few main characters I have recently read that does not tick me off in some way. She is hard, ruthless, intelligent and very protective of those she cares for or sees as weaker than her. She very rarely wallows in self-pity which is amazing based on her history and what happens to throughout the series. Jennifer Estep has created a great character, one you want to cheer on. If you enjoy urban fantasies, this is a definite must grab. Check it out, and let me know what you think!

Spider's Bite (Book 1, Elemental Assassin Series)

The Land of Painted Caves by Jean M. Auel

2011-06-03T19:52:00.000-04:00

Book Description

Thirty thousand years in the making and 31 years in the writing, Auel's overlong and underplotted sixth and final volume in the Earth's Children series (The Clan of the Cave Bear; etc.) finds Cro-Magnon Ayla; her mate, Jondalar; and their infant daughter, Jonayla, settling in with the clan of the Ninth Cave of the Zelandonaii. Animal whisperer and medicine woman Ayla is an acolyte in training to become a full-fledged Zelandoni (shaman) of the clan, but all is not rosy in this Ice Age setting; there are wild animals to face and earthquakes to survive, as well as a hunter named Balderan, who has targeted Ayla for death, and a potential cave-wrecker named Marona. While gazing on an elaborate cave painting (presumably, the Lascaux caverns in France), Ayla has an epiphany and invents the concept of art appreciation, and after she overdoses on a hallucinogenic root, Ayla and Jondalar come to understand how much they mean to one another, thus giving birth to another concept—monogamy.

Fine Printing’s Review

If you have yet to read the first of Jean Auel’s novels, The Clan of the Cave Bear, then you need to get to it! Long awaited, The Land of Painted Caves finally released in March 2011, the very last in a series that took over thirty years to write! Auel did a superior job wrapping up the storyline in this final novel. Though not my favorite of the six book series, it gave closure to several open questions that remained and provided our last look at characters that we have come to love over the years.

Now, if you are thinking that your tastes don’t run towards ice age dramas, just trust me on this. I have heard that excuse from several others and have asked them to give the first book a chance before judgment is passed. And of course, they LOVED it! Auel’s writing is eloquent; attention to detail is absolutely stunning, almost as if a very detailed movie is playing in front of you. The characters draw you in and once immersed within the story you will be rooting for Ayla and Jondalar, experiencing a whole new world of animals, earth and two types of the human species!

The Clan of the Cave Bear (Earth's Children, Book One)

Music Selection for June 2011

2011-06-03T16:57:00.000-04:00

One of my favorites is a band that, although they have been around for over a decade, they are still not that well known outside of England. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club is a great band with a great sound. With music that crosses alternative and rock genres they have a little bit for everyone, even a bit of the blues in some of their music. Highly recommend Beat The Devil's Tattoo, Howl, or their first CD release Black Rebel Motorcycle Club from 2001. These selections are great for either sitting at home reading a great thriller/crime drama or driving around with the mp3 player on. Check them out at Amazon or iTunes, or if you're into vinyl, pick up their classic vinyl at http://www.blackrebelmotorcycleclub.com/.

Beat the Devil's Tattoo
Howl
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

Deadtown by Nancy Holzner

2011-05-26T19:05:00.000-04:00

Book Description

Shape-shifter Victory Vaughn fights demons in an alternate present-day Boston, where a few thousand people have been mysteriously zombified and are now confined to the neighborhood of Deadtown along with vampires, werewolves, and other Paranormal Americans. Vicky's sometime boyfriend, Kane, a werewolf, lawyer, and PA rights advocate, gets some competition from human detective Daniel; teen zombie sidekick Tina occasionally wreaks unintentional havoc; and Vicky's sister, Gwen, an inactive shape-shifter and suburban wife and mother, argues with Vicky over their life choices and attitudes toward shape-shifting.

Fine Printing’s Review

For the first review back, have to give a shout out to Boston and another fantastic Massachusetts writer to come out of the woodwork! An urban fantasy novel set right in the middle of Boston or as it is called in Holzner’s world … Deadtown. The plot itself is fascinating, with rich characters who are both funny and sometimes annoying. If you like urbans or para-novels then you certainly get your fill within these pages. Enter a world of post viral attack on Boston citizens and discover the newly dead (zombies), the old dead (vampires), shape-shifters and werewolves. A moral and political battle brews between the norms and the paranormals, while a dark terror breaks out of hell and stalks the Boston streets. Victory, a demon fighting shape-shifter works at uncovering the person responsible for unleashing ‘hell’ on the streets, while struggling to maintain her relationship with werewolf lover, Kane and begin training Tina, a young zombie, in the arts of demon hunting.

Like I said, the story is interesting and will pull you right in. The only downside is a lack of … let’s say ‘hot and heavy’. Must admit that Holzner gets the reader right up to that point of anticipation but, it’s a tease. Outside of that some great scenes, heavy on the violence in some parts but heck … they are awesome!

If you like this novel, Hellforged the second in the Deadtown series just came out (still on the ‘Waiting to be Read’ list), with the third, Bloodstone due out in September. Go Boston!

Back again!

2011-05-26T15:17:00.001-04:00

Its been a while! I know, I know, fell off the wagon. This last year has been extremely crazy busy, but now it's time to get back on track. Though life has had ups and downs lately, I still have been eating up books left and right, so there is plenty to let you all know about! Plan on getting out those shopping lists, because a new set of reviews and some hot books are coming your way, beginning tonight!

2010-02-14T17:56:00.001-05:00

Book Descriptions

The House of Night is a thrilling book series that follows 16-year-old Zoey Redbird as she is “Marked” by a vampire tracker and begins to undergo the “Change” into an actual vampire. She has to leave her family in Broken Arrow, OK, and move into the House of Night, a boarding school for other fledgling vampires like her.

It’s tough to begin a new life, away from her parents and friends, and on top of that, Zoey finds she is no average fledgling. She has been Marked as special by the vampire Goddess, Nyx. Although Zoey has awesome new powers, it’s hard to fit in when everyone knows you’re “special.” As Zoey tries to make new friends and maybe find a hot boyfriend (or two), she comes up against all kinds of evil, from the perfect-looking, super-popular girl with not-so-faultless plans, to the mysterious deaths happening at the House of Night and all over Tulsa. Things at the House of Night are not always what they seem.

Fine Printing's Review

Ok, ok, here is a review for all those paranormal freaks, the Twilight lovers to say the least (myself included, of course). P.C. Cast and her daughter Kristen co-write an amazing story. This seven book series (thus far) is fantastic and thrilling. With a touch of innocent teenager, thrown into a taboo world, along with murder, mystery and hot men is on your toes, sleep with one eye open exciting! Like the Stephanie Meyer's Twilight, these books encompass a world of vampires and other unknowns and twists them against old standards set forth by movies and the like. Unlike Meyer's adaptation however, these books are seamless. Beautifully written, and not all wrapped into the love of two characters. We meet betrayal, new love, old love, unbreakable bonds of friendship and even painful death. The sixth book, Tempted, should be heralded on its own, brought me to my knees in its painful revelations and in the end there was nothing I could do to stop the tears. Anyone who enjoys paranormal, thrillers and love stories should clear their schedules and make sure to read this series! I cannot wait for the next installation, Burned, due out April 27, 2010.

Love, love, loved it!

The Brides Quartet series by Nora Roberts

2010-02-14T17:29:00.000-05:00

Book Descriptions

Vision in White

Mackensie Mac Elliot loves capturing happy and playful moments with her camera, but her own life is all about work—until she meets English teacher Carter Maguire. He's escorting his bride-to-be sister to a meeting with the Vows team and recognizes Mac as the girl he crushed out on in high school. Funny sparks fly: he's a geeky guy who quotes Shakespeare, she's a trendy workaholic who loves shoes. He's crazy about her, which makes him verbally clumsy and, to Mac, charming, though she's saddled with a needy mother, an absent father and difficulties with both that make falling in love complicated.

Bed of Roses

In the second installment of the series, florist Emma wonders if she can find true love with old friend Jack Cooke, who is also very close to Emma's associates. When Emma kisses Jack, her spark-o-meter melts from the blazing heat, but their romance's setbacks are smoothed out with a little help from their friends.

Fine Printings' Review

I discovered The Brides Quartet series just this month and LOVED it! Nora Roberts has always produced enjoyable reads, however, this series is a step away from her typical thriller/love stories. Just looking at the covers of these books makes any woman gushy and happy. Who doesn't love a good wedding. Now these books may not be for the boys, but I can guarantee any woman who loves a good romance to get a thrill from these two books! Vision in White kicks off this series with the energetic and fiery Mac, who is so lovable you do not want the story to end. Her fight against the pull of love is enjoyable and you will find yourself laughing at all the antics she and her friends go through. Then move on to Bed of Roses, a bit more "mushy" than the first (I prefer less sappiness and more humor, but was definitely enjoyable) and find yourself swept away with Emma and her constant hunt to find true love. There is no disappointment with these two books, and the preview of the third book at the end of Bed of Roses will certainly strain your patience waiting for its release!

Be sure to look for Savor the Moment, the continuation with Laurel's story on April 27, 2010.

Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress by Dai Sijie

2010-02-14T17:13:00.000-05:00

Book Description

The Cultural Revolution of Chairman Mao Zedong altered Chinese history in the 1960s and '70s, forcibly sending hundreds of thousands of Chinese intellectuals to peasant villages for "re-education." This moving, often wrenching short novel by a writer who was himself re-educated in the '70s tells how two young men weather years of banishment, emphasizing the power of literature to free the mind. Sijie's unnamed 17-year-old protagonist and his best friend, Luo, are bourgeois doctors' sons, and so condemned to serve four years in a remote mountain village, carrying pails of excrement daily up a hill. Only their ingenuity helps them to survive. The two friends are good at storytelling, and the village headman commands them to put on "oral cinema shows" for the villagers, reciting the plots and dialogue of movies. When another city boy leaves the mountains, the friends steal a suitcase full of forbidden books he has been hiding, knowing he will be afraid to call the authorities. Enchanted by the prose of a host of European writers, they dare to tell the story of The Count of Monte Cristo to the village tailor and to read Balzac to his shy and beautiful young daughter. Luo, who adores the Little Seamstress, dreams of transforming her from a simple country girl into a sophisticated lover with his foreign tales.

Fine Printings' Review

Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress was certainly NOT a favorite of mine. Fellow readers who expressed an interest in this novel and pointed my nose in its direction were led to believe this a tale of a young woman, a coming of age story. I did not find that so. In all actuality, the tale is that of two teenage boys (narrated by one), working among the mountains in communist China. The story documents their own struggles, trials and the discovery of new friends, and of new enemies. On top of all this, the plotline seemed inadequately developed. And more often than not it was tedious and a trial to read through. Though this novel is only a couple hundred pages (short compared to most) it took me twice as long as it normally would to read due to lackluster writing. Of course, this is my opinion and the book did receive a lot of press, and as it is originally written in French, some of the prose could be lost in translation. I will leave it up to the readers to decide.

The Murder of King Tut by James Patterson and Martin Dugard

2010-01-24T14:18:00.002-05:00

Book Description

A secret buried for centuries

Thrust onto Egypt's most powerful throne at the age of nine, King Tut's reign was fiercely debated from the outset. Behind the palace's veil of prosperity, bitter rivalries and jealousy flourished among the Boy King's most trusted advisors, and after only nine years, King Tut suddenly perished, his name purged from Egyptian history. To this day, his death remains shrouded in controversy.

The keys to an unsolved mystery

Enchanted by the ruler's tragic story and hoping to unlock the answers to the 3,000 year-old mystery, Howard Carter made it his life's mission to uncover the pharaoh's hidden tomb. He began his search in 1907, but encountered countless setbacks and dead-ends before he finally, uncovered the long-lost crypt.

The clues point to murder

Now, in The Murder of King Tut, James Patterson and Martin Dugard dig through stacks of evidence--X-rays, Carter's files, forensic clues, and stories told through the ages--to arrive at their own account of King Tut's life and death. The result is an exhilarating true crime tale of intrigue, passion, and betrayal that casts fresh light on the oldest mystery of all.

Fine Printings’ Review

For the most part, I am not a fan of non-fiction novels. Not to say that occasionally one stumbles across my desk that has been quite enjoyable, however, I do not go out in search of one to read. This novel has certainly helped change my feelings on the matter, and opened my eyes to the glorious possibility that a real story can certainly hold a reader in its grip, making them wonder, what will happen next?

The story, or at the very least to say, the man called King Tut is not unknown. For almost a century our world has known of this great pharoh, a child king, from over thousands of years ago. Though never has his story been so richly told. Leave it to author James Patterson to make this historical story one into a richly believed one of betrayal, passion and murder.

His novel, The Murder of King Tut—The Plot to Kill the Child King, takes place in three different eras, surrounding the lives of three very different people: Tuthmosis, Howard Carter and James Patterson. The reader is welcomed into a story woven back in 3000 B.C., another in early 1900s, and in Present Day, all three piece together the story, the research, blood and sweat to unearth one of history’s most fascinating stories. Now, was King Tut truly murdered? James Patterson and Martin Dugard really believe so, and after the facts, perhaps they’re right. Though, with history as old as this, who can ever be one hundred percent sure? One thing we can be one hundred percent sure of, however, is that no matter what genre you enjoy, or whether your preference is fiction or non-fiction, this is a book no-one can resist. Once again James Patterson proves to be a force a nature, not only with his fantastic detective fictions, or heartbreaking love stories, but now also in taking real life drama and bringing it to life in modern day writing!

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

2009-12-18T21:13:00.000-05:00

Book Description

Maybe it was a grandparent, or a teacher, or a colleague. Someone older, patient and wise, who understood you when you were young and searching, helped you see the world as a more profound place, gave you sound advice to help you make your way through it.

For Mitch Albom, that person was Morrie Schwartz, his college professor from nearly twenty years ago.

Fine Printings’ Review

Tuesdays with Morrie, has made a name for itself. I have seen this book around—in stores, buried under magazines, stuffed in bookcases. Always was recommended as a great read, a book for all ages, entertaining and philosophical. Picked up once or twice, turning it around in my hands, staring at the cover as if it may jump up and bite me. Not sure why I was so apprehensive about reading through … not as if it was a hefty book. At only two hundred pages, the novel is more of a ‘novella’ by my standards, quite easy. Finally, after ten years, I succumbed to the relentless requests for my opinion and turned that first page.

Within ten minutes I was hooked. Mitch’s relationship with his ‘Coach’ Morrie is touching. We have all had that one teacher who has stuck with us throughout the years, well into adulthood. And Morrie is the epitome of that role-model perfect teacher. His honest caring, and life related philosophy steers his student through college and helps him cope with an end-of-life crisis.

Was slightly sluggish at places, the writing appeared to hit some dry spots, and the author leaped timelines throughout the story, which personally I find aggravating. Though all in all, was a very first-rate read and with a little hump work—after getting through the dull spots—I took away some great life lessons, which is more than most novels can provide!

First Nightline Interview

Second Nightline Interview

Third Nightline Interview

The Final Goodbye

Music Selection for December 2009

2009-12-06T17:47:00.001-05:00

In homage of our monthly series selection and the release of the New Moon film last month we took a look at the movie soundtrack. To our delightful surprise this is a fantastic grouping of musicians! Not overly fond of soundtracks in general, or of this saga’s movies, a tasteful group of singers worked together to form a masterful sound for the film. Some of our own favorite groups are featured, such as Death Cab for Cutie and the Editors. Of course, Stephanie Meyer’s preferred band, Muse, makes an appearance with I Belong To You (New Moon Remix), and the haunting voices of Lykke Li, Anya Marina and Sea Wolf make their debuts in the mainstream market.

A delightful blend of music, and not too heavy, makes this musical compilation perfect for a quiet night in with a book. This CD will also make a great Christmas gift for anyone, even if they have never read or seen the saga. Two thumbs up on this one!!

The Twilight Saga by Stephanie Meyer

2009-12-06T16:57:00.001-05:00

Book Descriptions

Twilight (Novel 1)

Seventeen year old, Isabella Swan (aka Bella) moves to small Forks, Washington, where it rains relentlessly, and could have been the most boring move she ever made. Though once she meets the mysterious and alluring Edward Cullen, Bella’s life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn. Up until now, Edward has managed to keep his vampire identity a secret in the small community he lives in, but now nobody is safe, especially Bella, the person Edward holds most dear and longs for most. The lovers find themselves balanced precariously on the point of a knife … between desire and danger.

New Moon (Novel 2)

Bella and Edward find themselves facing new obstacles in New Moon, including a devastating separation. As Bella tries to move forward with life, her growing friendship with Jacob Black increasingly becomes more than just “friends” and with the mysterious appearance of dangerous wolves roaming the forest in Forks, and a terrifying threat of revenge from a female vampire, both Bella and Jacob are thrust further together for their own protection. There is also a deliciously disturbing encounter with Italy's reigning royal family of vampires, the Volturi, where Bella or one of the Cullens may not return from.

Eclipse (Book 3)

As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious murders and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her deep friendship with Jacob … knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. Finally, with graduation quickly approaching, Bella has one more decision to make: life or death. But which is which?

Breaking Dawn (Book 4)

In Breaking Dawn, the final installment in this series, Bella’s tale plays out in some unexpected twists. The ongoing conflicts that made this series so compelling … a human girl in love with a vampire and a werewolf … and the long feud between werewolves and vampires, slowly try to resolve. Bella’s latest opportunity for self-sacrifice leads a large role in this novel: giving her life for someone she loves even more than Edward. Death seems to lurk around every page of this novel and Meyer leads to a questionable end for the “good” vampires when the Volturi arrive in Forks, with one main goal … destruction.

Fine Printings’ Review

Stephanie Meyer’s, Twilight Saga, is riveting and edge-of-your-seat entertainment. Though Meyer’s is not what we would call a “clean writer” her story telling is one of a kind. This series has captivated audiences young and old, male or woman, more than even the Harry Potter novels have. Being a clean novel (making the reading age appropriate) parent’s can approve these books for their young children.

If you have seen the movies based on the first two books, and not yet had the pleasure of reading them, please do not judge the novels by the films. The movies have been a great disappointment, not only in just actor portrayal, but following storyline (a grave disappointment we would say for Twilight aficionados). The series is what spun the love for paranormal, sky-rocketing books that followed into New York Times bestsellers, our hands and hearts go out to Stephanie Meyer’s for creating a saga that will go down in history.

The Art of Racing In the Rain by Garth Stein

2009-12-04T14:39:00.001-05:00

Book Description

“I know this much about racing in the rain. I know it is about balance. It is about anticipation and patience. I know all of the driving skills that are necessary for one to be successful in the rain. But racing in the rain is also about the mind! It is about owning one’s own body. About believing that the track is an extension of the car, and the rain is an extension of the track, and the sky is an extension of the rain. It is about believing that you are not you; you are everything. And everything is you.”

“He died that day because his body had served its purpose. His soul had done what it came to do, learned what it came to learn, and then was free to leave. And I knew, as Denny sped me toward the doctor who would fix me, that if I had already accomplished what I set out to accomplish here on earth, if I had already learned what I was meant to learn, I would have left the curb one second later than I had, and I would have been killed instantly by that car. But I was not killed. Because I was not finished. I still had work to do.”

A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty and hope - a captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life ... as only a dog could tell it!

Fine Printings' Review

Life is short, filled with trials that as we know, are to make us humans stronger. However, have we ever stopped and wondered how our own everyday lives, routines … these trials, affect our beloved pets? What courses through their minds? Are they as intelligent, perhaps more intuitive then we are? Do our actions or in-actions cause them to scoff at us in their own silent ways? In Garth Stein’s, The Art of Racing in the Rain, these questions and more are effortlessly placed to rest.

What can we say … dogs. Simple honesty … dogs. These wondrous animals, man’s best friend, soul companions, silent, strong, and wise onlookers to everyday life. They are not just balls of fluff, something to cuddle and pet. They are sometimes wiser than even we are.

In this novel, Enzo, a lab terrier mix, narrates a beautiful story that begins with the start of his puppy life in the arms of competitive racecar driver, Denny. A tale that is one for all readers to enjoy, and how could we not … as we can certainly not attest to how many books have been written from a canine perspective. You will find yourself laughing out loud, yelling out at injustice and weeping out from both heartbreak and joy. The pages flow with philosophy, so when you set this novel down be sure to sit back and take stock of your life. This is not only a novel that marvels at the life around us, but one that teaches, in fact yearns to teach us on how to better one’s own being and live with soul satisfying happiness. You do not need to be a car or dog fanatic to love and appreciate Stein’s work, nor does it matter your age or sex … this is a book for ALL readers, enjoy and embrace the spirit of family.

Perfect book for the holiday season!

Harlequin Celebrates 60 Years!

2009-11-26T00:26:00.002-05:00

While this is not our customary review post, we came across some great finds and had to share! This year, Harlequin is celebrating 60 years of great romance publishing. As a ‘Thank you’ to readers they are offering 16 … yes, we said it, 16 … of their incredible stories for FREE as eBooks!

If you have never read an eBook, do not be alarmed! As long as you possess a computer you can receive a book … no need for those fancy electronic reading devices (Kindle, etc). Just decide upon a book and download directly to PC (as long it runs Adobe, eReader (free download online), MS Reader or ePub). We have provided the direct link to these free downloads, and while you are at it, check out the various other novels for sale on the site. Harlequin not only has 'Freebie Fridays' with a free eBook download every week, but their prices cannot be matched!

60 Years of Harlequin Romance

Water for Elephants: A Novel by Sara Gruen

2009-11-16T00:09:00.000-05:00

Book Description

As a young man, Jacob Jankowski was tossed by Fate onto a rickety train that was home to the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. It was the early part of the great Depression, and for Jacob, now ninety or ninety-three, the circus world he remembers was both his salvation and a living hell. A veterinary student just shy of a degree, he was put in charge of caring for the circus menagerie. It was there that he met Marlena, the beautiful equestrian star married to August, the charismatic but twisted animal trainer. And he met Rosie, an un-trainable elephant who was the great hope for this third-rate traveling show. The bond that grew among this unlikely trio was one of love and trust, and, ultimately, it was their only hope for survival.

Fine Printings’ Review

This book came to us as a recommended read from several sources. Once selected, we could not possibly put it down. The author, Sara Gruen, builds the detailed and fantastic world of a travelling circus during the Great Depression from the ground up! The story of Jacob Jankowski is one of sorrow, love and at times terrifying. His constant emotional struggles can be related to by many readers (though perhaps not as fantastical) and will captivate the imagination. The other characters Gruen constructed are perhaps the most remarkable outside of young Jacob, as with any circus, they all act their parts accordingly … with flawless precision.

One does not need to be a circus aficionado or historical reader to take pleasure in this novel, for it contains a little of everything to captivate any bookworm. We guarantee you will not be able to put this one down!

Music Selection for November 2009

2009-11-14T15:48:00.002-05:00

Once a month we wander off the beaten track and explore the world of music and its varying artists. Akin to many other readers, we enjoy a little background music to soften the mood. Nothing is better than swimming in the depths of tranquil waters, lost in a captivating story with soft music cocooning you. Believe us when we say, this relaxes both the body and soul after a long day with the kids or at work!

This month’s musical enjoyment is from the soundtrack Classical Music for Reading (a given, right?). Thoroughly enjoyable, this CD focuses on soft melodies with a collection of famous compositions at the ready. Enjoy the best of Mozart, Rachmaninov, Beetoven along with many others. The only downfall to this music collection is it not being quite long enough, however we are sure readers will have no qualms setting it on a loop and losing themselves in this classical ensemble.

Click here to preview tracks or get your copy today!

The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

2009-11-11T20:06:00.000-05:00

Book Description

A spellbinding epic set in twelfth-century England, The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of Philip, prior of Kingsbridge, a devout and resourceful monk driven to build the greatest cathedral the world has known ... of Tom, the mason who becomes his architect-a man divided in his soul ... of the beautiful, elusive Lady Aliena, haunted by a secret shame ... and of a struggle between good and evil that will turn church against state, and brother against brother.

Fine Printings’ Review

As promised, The Pillars of the Earth was spellbinding, enchanting, engrossing along with any other similar adjective one can think. At over a thousand pages, a reader may be apprehensive about picking it up; however, there is no other way Ken Follett could have told the tale without selling the reader short. Perhaps you are questioning our sanity. A novel about the construction of a cathedral, how could that be entertaining? To put it plainly … in medieval England … how could it not be?

On the other hand, this is not a story for the faint of heart. Even though centered around the forty-year construction of a church, Follett brazenly (and brilliantly) encompasses the plot with murder, lust, back-stabbing, politics, grief, rape, and a long held secret. These characters are easy to love, hate, and laugh with. Families are formed; enemies are made … but as always, good conquers all. A superior read and favorite among ours and as Follett fans, we look forward to seeing more.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

2009-11-09T22:07:00.002-05:00

Book Description

Arthur Dent is plucked off the planet by his friend Ford Prefect, a researcher for the revised edition of The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy who, for the last fifteen years, has been posing as an out of work actor on Earth. Together this dynamic pair begin their journey through space aided by quotes from The Hitch Hiker's Guide "A towel is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have" and a galaxy full of fellow travelers: Zaphod Beeblebrox the two-headed, three-armed ex-hippie and totally out to lunch President of the Galaxy; Trillian, Zaphod's girlfriend (formally Tricia McMillan); and Marvin, a paranoid, brilliant and constantly depressed robot. Join these five eccentric individuals on the most hilarious and philosophical ride of their lives … and yours.

Fine Printings’ Review

We were reluctant when this book was suggested due to the sci-fi comical nature that coincides with Douglas Adam’s work. However, overriding our doubts, the following he has received from this work gained our interest and we could not help ourselves to trying out a few chapters. No more than two pages into the story, we were hooked. The author’s uproarious contempt towards the human race (though harmless and playful), the main character Arthur’s naivety toward the ways of the Galaxy immediately peek curiosity and his poetic writing induces an intellectual comic fodder. Rolling on the floor, holding our stomachs, and laughter induced convulsing was consistent throughout the entire storyline. There is no wonder why this tale has a dedicated cult following, and will always continue so. Ahead of his time, and not nearly respected enough for his philosophical writing while alive, Douglas Adams is perhaps one of the greatest writers to have ever lived. We certainly look forward to finishing this series, as well as introducing ourselves to the rest of his novels. A book for ALL ages, please add it to your “must read before I die” list. Furthermore, if you have already indulged in the series, be sure to look out for Eoin Colfer’s And Another Thing, the newest addition to the Hitchhiker family.

Also, for all you Galaxy Hitchhikers … just remember everything is going to be OK, as long as you know where your towel is. And for goodness sake:

DON’T PANIC!

The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz

2009-11-06T22:30:00.001-05:00

Book Description

Who will be with you in the darkest hour? Amy Redwing has devoted her life to rescuing dogs. But the unique bond she shares with Nickie, a golden retriever she saves in the most dangerous encounter of her life, is deeper than any she has ever known. In one night, their loyalty will be put to the test, and each will prove to the other how far they will go -- when the stakes turn deadly serious.

Fine Printings' Review

This novel left us feeling lost throughout the story. The relationship formed between Amy and the golden retriever, Nickie is endearing and the action is heart racing. However, the associations shaped during the tale seem to be clumsily connected ... easily broken, which left us wanting a little more out of the story. Furthermore, the style in which the book was written is confusing since the author consistently jumped from character to character. Though countless writers can get away with this style of storytelling, it can only be truly successful with a limited cast. In The Darkest Evening of the Year a multitude of characters are portrayed along with their own train of thoughts and this seems to take away from appreciating the actual plot when attempting to deduce which character was now being presented. In the end, we found ourselves sorely disappointed …

Sphere by Michael Crichton

2009-11-04T22:47:00.000-05:00

Book Description

Within a space ship lying at the bottom of the sea, a mysterious sphere promises each of the main characters some personal reward: military might, professional prestige, power, and understanding. Trapped underwater with the sphere, the humans confront eerie and increasingly dangerous threats after communication with the alien object has been achieved. The story is exciting and loaded with scientific and psychological speculations that add interest at no cost to the action, including an intriguing sequence in which human and computer attempt to decode the alien communication. As the story races to an end, suspicions of evil-doing fall as many ways as in a detective novel.

Fine Printings’ Review

A scientific thriller packed with plot twists galore that would keep you guessing the whole way through. Crichton shows his understanding of human nature with a diverse cast of characters whom all show expertise within technical fields. As always he keeps the techno jargon just out of reach of those without PhD’s, however not allowing the reader to feel dumb. We enjoyed this novel immensely as a challenging, philosophical and sexy work of fiction.

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

2009-11-03T17:37:00.000-05:00

Book Description

“My name was Salmon, like the fish; first name Susie. I was fourteen when I was murdered on December 6, 1973.” So begins the story of Susie Salmon, who is adjusting to her new home in heaven, a place that is not at all what she expected, even as she is watching life on earth continue without her – her friends trading rumors about her disappearance, her killer trying to cover his tracks, her grief-stricken family unraveling.

Fine Printings’ Review

This is a powerful novel by Alice Sebold that captivates from the very beginning. Susie’s story unfolds darkly however, somehow, manages to end vibrantly. Horror, mystery, love, vengeance and powerful friendships abound in this novel that will both grieve and cheer you to your very soul. Definitely sit down, grab this book and hold on for a powerful emotional rollercoaster!

Soon to be a major motion picture!

The Darkest Fire by Gena Showalter

2009-11-03T09:29:00.000-05:00

Book Description

He is the guardian of hell, more monster than man. She is the goddess of oppression, more angel than woman. Together they will enter the flames to battle a dangerous horde of demon lords — and discover a passion unlike any other….

Fine Printings' Review

Written by award winning author, Gena Showalter, this story is not one of her sexiest or captivating though it does prepare the reader for the tantalizing series that follows. Due to the size of the story, the reader may find it hard to form a bond with the characters within. Though, it is an appropriate prequel, which makes it a “have to read” before delving into the fascinating world of the Lords of the Underworld. Currently this novella is available only as an eBook from the author.

Darkest Fire eBook link

Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning

2009-11-02T14:54:00.000-05:00

Book Description

MacKayla Lane’s life is good. She has great friends, a decent job, and a car that breaks down only every other week or so. In other words, she’s your perfectly ordinary twenty-first-century woman. Or so she thinks…until something extraordinary happens.

When her sister is murdered, leaving a single clue to her death–a cryptic message on Mac’s cell phone–Mac journeys to Ireland in search of answers. The quest to find her sister’s killer draws her into a shadowy realm where nothing is as it seems, where good and evil wear the same treacherously seductive mask. She is soon faced with an even greater challenge: staying alive long enough to learn how to handle a power she had no idea she possessed–a gift that allows her to see beyond the world of man, into the dangerous realm of the Fae….

As Mac delves deeper into the mystery of her sister’s death, her every move is shadowed by the dark, mysterious Jericho, a man with no past and only mockery for a future. As she begins to close in on the truth, the ruthless V’lane–an alpha Fae who makes sex an addiction for human women–closes in on her. And as the boundary between worlds begins to crumble, Mac’s true mission becomes clear: find the elusive Sinsar Dubh before someone else claims the all-powerful Dark Book–because whoever gets to it first holds nothing less than complete control of the very fabric of both worlds in their hands. . . .

Fine Printings' Review

Could not put this book down for a minute! Karen Marie Moning has magic in her fingertips and once again proves her skill in reader captivation with the first book of this five book series. The perfect mix of revenge, shock, passion and discovery sets this book apart from other paranormals out there today. Her first book written in the first person paradigm, she weaves Mac’s world and throws her from fanciful, carefree southern bell into the dangerous Dublin streets teeming with Tuatha de Dananns, Seelie and Unseelie alike.

If you have read her previous books in the Highlander Series, some of this first book may seem a bit repetitive as Mac learns about the world between man and Fae, but fear not, for you Moning fans a new cast (and some old ones) enter to form fascinating relationships that will not let you down!

(The author is offering this book for free in ebook format; you can follow the link provided to download this exciting book!)

Download Darkfever for free!

The Top Classic Fine Printings

2009-11-02T14:20:00.001-05:00

Take a look at our top 25 classic books, that are a MUST read for anyone who enjoys a good book; because, let’s face it ... you cannot fully appreciate today's writing if you couldn't love those who began it all!

1. Silence by Sarah Roche-Mahdi

Silence, translated by Sarah Roche-Mahdi, is a story of a girl who is raised as a boy. She argues that the character, Silence, is caught in the conflict of nature versus nurture as it applies to gender roles while her father, Cador, is caught in the battle between acceptance of the social reality and the possibility of change.

2. The Nibelungenlied by Author Unknown

Written by an unknown author in the twelfth century, this influential tale of murder and revenge reaches back to the earliest epochs of German ancient times. Siegfried, a great prince of the Netherlands, wins the hand of the beautiful princess Kriemhild of Burgundy, by aiding her brother Gunther in his struggle to seduce a powerful Icelandic Queen. But the two women fight, and Siegfried is ultimately destroyed by those he trusts the most. Similar to the Iliad, this expertly crafted tale combines the remains of half forgotten myths to create one of the greatest epic poems.

3. War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells

The night after a shooting star is seen streaking through the sky from Mars, a cylinder is discovered on Horsell Common in London. Naïve locals approach the cylinder armed just with a white flag—only to be quickly killed by an all-destroying heat ray, as terrifying tentacled invaders emerge. Soon the whole of human civilization is under threat as powerful Martians build gigantic killing machines, destroying all life in their path with black gas and burning ray. The forces of Earth, however, may prove harder to beat than they appear.

4. The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

Set in the harsh Puritan community of seventeenth-century Massachusetts, this tale of an adulterous entanglement resulting in an illegitimate birth engendered the first true heroine of American fiction.

5. Nineteen Eighty Four by George Orwell

Hidden away in the Record Department of the sprawling Ministry of Truth, Winston Smith skilfully rewrites the past to suit the needs of his Party. Though he inwardly rebels against the totalitarian world he lives in, which demands absolute obedience and controls him through the all-seeing telescreens and the watchful eye of Big Brother, the symbolic head of the Party. In his longing for truth and liberty, Smith begins a secret love affair with a fellow worker Julia, but then discovers the true price of freedom … is betrayal.

6. Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton

Ethan Frome and Zeena marry after she nurses his mother in her last illness back to health. Although Frome seems ambitious and intelligent, Zeena holds him back. When her cousin Mattie comes to stay on their New England farm, Frome falls in love with her. But the social conventions of the day doom their love and hopes.

7. Complete Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

Sit back and wade past tense introductions in A Study in Scarlet and move forward into classic tales like The Hound of the Baskervilles, The Adventure of the Speckled Band, and The Final Problem, the reader is sure to draw their own conclusions about Holmes's veiled past and his odd relationship with "Boswell" Watson.

8. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

This novel details the two days in the life of 16-year-old Holden Caulfield after he has been expelled from prep school. Confused and disillusioned, he searches for truth and rails against the "phoniness" of the adult world. He ends up exhausted and emotionally ill, in a psychiatrist's office.

9. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig

Phaedrus, the narrator, takes a present tense cross-country motorcycle trip with his son during which the maintenance of their motorcycle becomes an illustration of how we can unify the cold, rational land of technology with the warm, imaginative land of artistry. Just like with Zen, the trick is to become one with the activity and engage in it fully, in order to see and appreciate all details, whether it be hiking in the woods, writing a novel, or tightening the chain of a motorcycle.

10. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Set in the small Southern town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Depression, this novel follows three years in the life of 8-year-old Scout Finch, her brother, Jem, and their father, Atticus--three years punctuated by the arrest and eventual trial of a young black man accused of raping a white woman.

11. The Long Goodbye by Raymond Chandler

For three years, ever since his father died, Charles has been loitering around the family's crumbling seaside estate near Dublin, drinking and watching old movies. His sister, Bel, and everyone else, view him as a shiftless drunkard, and Charles's own narration leaves little doubt whose judgment is more correct. Then the reappearance of Charles's mother, (who's been away at a clinic for alcoholics and is now determined to change the rest of the family) means that his allowance is immediately cut off and he's required to get a job. This obviously proves to be very difficult, since Charles has never labored a day in his life. Meanwhile, the family's Bosnian housekeeper smuggles her grown-up children into the country, and Bel starts a theater company with the housekeeper's beautiful daughter, Mirela, who's much too clever for infatuated Charles.

12. The Strenuous Life by Theodore Roosevelt

Teddy Roosevelt carefully crafted an image of himself as a self-made man. Though he had a big head start in coming from one of New York's wealthiest and best-connected families. More than just shaping his body to overcome weakness, his spirit to overcome fear, he had to overcome the prejudices of his time and class in order to be truly fit for leadership, and even as President he fought with a few contradictions. He was not always successful, but emerged in the end as a great champion of civil rights and of the middle and working classes, very much ahead of his time.

13. All Quiet On The Western Front by Erich Maria Remarq

This war novel is actually an anti-war novel, following the lives and losses of a young group of soldiers caught in the brutality of World War I. Mesmerizing, realistic, and intense with a vision not consistent with post-war Germany, this book caused Remarque to receive death threats and have to leave Germany to live and work in Hollywood.

14. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

Following the downfall of bloodthirsty buccaneer Captain Flint, young Jim Hawkins finds himself with the key to a fortune. He has discovered a map that will lead him to the legendary Treasure Island. But a mass of villains, wild animals and deadly savages stand between him and the store of gold. Not to mention the most infamous pirate ever to sail the high seas.

15. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

"Community, Identity, Stability" is the motto of the utopian World State. Here everyone consumes daily grams of “soma”, to fight depression, babies are born in laboratories, and the most popular form of entertainment is "Feelie," a movie that stimulates the senses of sight, hearing, and touch. Though there is no violence and everyone is provided for, Bernard Marx feels something is missing and senses his relationship with a woman has the possibility to be much more than the limitations of their way of life allows.

16. Moby Dick by Herman Melville

This is a story told by sailor Ishmael, and his voyage on the whaling ship Pequod. The ship is commanded by Captain Ahab and Ishmael soon learns that Ahab does not mean to use the Pequod and its crew to hunt whales for market trade, as whaling ships generally do. Ahab looks for one specific whale, Moby Dick, a great white whale of remarkable size and strength. In a prior encounter, Moby Dick destroyed Ahab's ship and resulted in the loss of one of Ahab’s legs. Ahab now intends to exact revenge on the whale.

17. The Art of War by Sun Tzu

The Art of War was compiled more than two and a half thousand years ago by a mysterious warrior/philosopher, Sun Tzu. This book is still considered the most influential book of strategy in the world, studied by modern politicians, executives, and military leaders. The book is rumored to have possibly influenced Napoleon, and even the planning of Operation Desert Storm. Many current influential leaders have also claimed to have drawn inspiration from the work.

18. Lord of the Flies by William Golding

This is a classic tale about a group of English schoolboys who are plane-wrecked on a deserted island. At first, the stranded boys cooperate, attempting to gather food, make shelters, and maintain signal fires; though the situation soon deteriorates as the trappings of civilization continue to fall away. Golding's gripping novel explores the boundary between human reason and animal instinct, all on the brutal playing field of adolescent competition.

19. Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss

While sailing to Port Jackson in Australia a family is shipwrecked in the East Indies. The family finds themselves stranded on a deserted island, and has to learn to live off the land. There are many dangers and conflicts the family must learn to overcome in order to survive.

20. Call of the Wild by Jack London

Call of the Wild follows a previously domesticated and even somewhat pampered dog named Buck, whose primal instincts return after a series of events finds him serving as a sled dog in the treacherous, cold Yukon during the days of the 19th-century Klondike Gold Rushes in which sled dogs were bought at generous prices.

21. White Fang by Jack London

During the Gold Rush days, prowling canine killers hunt in packs and search for their next victim. Sadistic dog trainers look for easy money. And the invincible spirit of a vicious wolf roams free until he receives a human being's love and understanding. The classic sequel to The Call of the Wild chronicles the life story of White Fang from birth until his eventual domestication. The fast paced action of White Fang never lets up with danger always waiting beyond the next pile of snow or beneath the claws of a snarling predator.

22. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

In Hertfordshire, far, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet (a country squire of no great means and his scatterbrained wife) must marry off their five lively daughters. At the center of all this is the headstrong second daughter Elizabeth and her suitor Darcy, two lovers in which pride and prejudice must be overcome before love can bring the novel to its fantastic conclusion.

23. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

This is a tragic tale of a mentally disabled man and his closest friend who loves and tries to protect him from the evil of their time.

24. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Written and set in the Alcott family home, in 19th-century New England, the novel follows the lives of four sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy March and their trials and tribulations of growing up while their father is off at war.

25. The Great Gatsby by Scott Fitzgerald

This story is about self-made, self-invented millionaire Jay Gatsby and his rise to glory and eventual fall from grace which becomes a kind of cautionary tale about the American Dream and the trials of love.