Wrap Up: March 2026

Hi everyone

Spring is finally here, and I can already feel the longer days and sunshine lifting my spirits, and, I suspect, yours too! 
I’ve been diving into some fantastic books lately, an old favorite, some new discoveries, and even one I had to let go of. 

Here’s a quick roundup of what I’ve been reading in March.

 - Shauna Lawless: The Children of Gods and Fighting Men 

- Neil Gaiman: The Graveyard Book 

- Robin Hobb: City of Dragons 

- Ilona Andrews: Magic Bleeds 

- Jen Williams: The Bitter Twins 

- Terry Pratchett: Thief of Time  

-Charles Dickens: Hard Times

- Lize Spit: Autobiografie van mijn lichaam  

Sadly, I had to quit a book I really didn't like.

- Simon Jimenez: The Spear Cuts Through Water 

What did you read in March? Any hidden gems I should add to my list?

Happy reading!
Helena 

Terry Pratchett: Thief of Time

Hi everyone

Thief of Time is Terry Pratchett’s 26th Discworld novel. I’ve owned the series for years and before that, I borrowed my father’s copies, so Pratchett’s world has been a constant companion for most of my life. This might have been my third time reading Thief of Time, and it was just as delightful as ever.

“Time is a resource.
Everyone knows it has to be managed.
And on Discworld that is the job of the Monks of History, who store it and pump it from the places where it's wasted (like underwater -- how much time does a codfish need?) to places like cities, where there's never enough time.
But the construction of the world's first truly accurate clock starts a race against, well, time, for Lu Tze and his apprentice Lobsang Ludd. Because it will stop time. And that will only be the start of everyone's problems.
Thief of Time comes complete with a full supporting cast of heroes and villains, yetis, martial artists and Ronnie, the fifth Horseman of the Apocalypse (who left before they became famous).” 

Thief of Time is classic Pratchett: witty, clever, and brimming with heart. The concept of time as a resource, managed by the Monks of History, is so brilliantly Pratchett. Only he could turn time itself into a bureaucratic nightmare and make it hilarious.
The characters are a joy, as always. Lu Tze, the sweeper-turned-hero, and his apprentice Lobsang Ludd are a perfect duo and their dynamic is one of the highlights of the book. And then there’s Ronnie, the fifth Horseman of the Apocalypse, who was an absolutely brilliant addition to the cast of characters.
The story is funny, clever, and surprisingly poignant, all at once.

What I love most about re-reading Pratchett is discovering new layers each time. The older I get, the more life experience I have, the more I’m able to see and interpret the story in different ways. 
If you’re new to Discworld, Thief of Time is a great place to jump in; it’s a standalone story but still rich with the magic that makes the whole series so special. 

Have you read Thief of Time? Did it make you laugh, think, or both? Do you have a favorite Discworld novel? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena 

Terry Pratchett: The Truth

Hi everyone 

This was my third time reading The Truth by the inimitable Terry Pratchett. It’s the 25th Discworld novel, but it’s one you can start with even if you haven’t read the previous books. Some familiar characters make an appearance, but it’s mostly a fresh cast of wonderful and lovable people. If you’re curious, you can read my previous review from my second read-through here (It was my second review on this blog!)

"William de Worde is the accidental editor of the Discworld's first newspaper. Now he must cope with the traditional perils of a journalist's life - people who want him dead, a recovering vampire with a suicidal fascination for flash photography, some more people who want him dead in a different way and, worst of all, the man who keeps begging him to publish pictures of his humorously shaped potatoes.
William just wants to get at THE TRUTH. Unfortunately, everyone else wants to get at William. And it's only the third edition..."

This book was such a joy to read; I loved every moment of it and found myself reading long after I should have gone to sleep. While the Industrial Revolution subseries of Discworld isn’t my absolute favorite, The Truth stands out as something special to me. 

What makes The Truth so brilliant is how it pokes fun at journalism, media, and the pursuit of truth; all topics that feel just as relevant today as they did when the book was first published. William de Worde is such a relatable and endearing protagonist. He’s just a guy with baggage, trying to do the right thing in a world that’s utterly chaotic, unpredictable, and ever-changing. 
But my absolute favorite character in this book is Otto Chriek, the recovering vampire with a passion for photography. His way of talking, his clever wit, and his obsession with capturing the perfect shot (even at the cost of his own well-being) make him unforgettable. There’s something so charming about his enthusiasm and his struggle with the black ribbon.

One of the things I love most about Pratchett’s writing is how he weaves in social commentary without ever feeling preachy. The Truth is no exception. The story is hilarious, vivid, clever, witty, and it makes you laugh, think and agree with everything going on. 

It’s a book that makes you laugh out loud one minute and nod in agreement the next, as it explores themes like the power of the press, the nature of truth, and the absurdity of human (and non-human) behavior. The way Pratchett balances satire, humor, and heart is pure genius. The story is vivid, clever, and witty, and it leaves you feeling like you’ve just spent time with old friends.

Have you read The Truth? What’s your favorite Discworld novel? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena 

My Favorite Books of 2025

Hi everyone

Looking back at my reading year, I realize I must have been very critical in 2025. Out of the 95 books I read, only 13 earned the full five stars from me. But those five-star books; they were so worth it!

Here are the stories that stole my heart, made me think, or just swept me away completely:

- Katherine Addison: The Tomb of Dragons  

- Ilona Andrews: Magic Strikes 

- Becky Chambers: A Prayer for the Crown-Shy 

- Roald Dahl: Matilda 

- Jonathan French: The True Bastards 

- Eowyn Ivey: To the Bright Edge of the World  

- Cameron Johnston: The Maleficent Seven 

- Brian McClellan: Promise of Blood

- Harriet Muncaster: Isabella Maan gaat naar de kermis 

- Emma Newman: Before Mars

- Terry Pratchett: The Fifth Elephant 

- Dennis E. Taylor: Not Till We Are Lost  

- Jen Williams: The Ninth Rain 

Each of these books stood out for a reason; whether it was the characters, the world, or the way they made me feel. They’re the ones I’ll remember, recommend, and reread for years to come.

What were your favorite reads of 2025? Did any of these make your list too? I’d love to hear what five-star books you (re)discovered! 

Happy reading!
Helena 

Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter: The Long Cosmos

Hi everyone

Yesterday I finished the fifth and final book in The Long Earth series by Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter. This was my second time reading it, and while it wraps up the series neatly, I walked away with mixed feelings.

"2070-71. Nearly six decades after Step Day, a new society continues to evolve in the Long Earth. Now, a message has been received: “Join us.”
The Next - the hyper-intelligent post-humans - realize that the missive contains instructions for kick-starting the development of an immense artificial intelligence known as The Machine. But to build this computer the size of an Earth continent, they must obtain help from the more populous and still industrious worlds of mankind.
Meanwhile, on a trek in the High Meggers, Joshua Valienté, now nearing seventy, is saved from death when a troll band discovers him. Living among the trolls as he recovers, Joshua develops a deeper understanding of this collective-intelligence species and its society. He discovers that some older trolls, with capacious memories, act as communal libraries, and live on a very strange Long Earth world, in caverns under the root systems of trees as tall as mountains.
Valienté also learns something much more profound . . . about life and its purpose in the Long Earth: We cultivate the cosmos to maximize the opportunities for life and joy in this universe, and to prepare for new universes to come."

The Long Cosmos is satisfying in that it concludes everything nicely. However, it also feels disappointing because it lacks the drive and depth I’d hoped for in a series finale.
The book obviously aims for an epic conclusion and it just doesn't deliver. The last 100 pages, in particular, feel underwhelming, and the entire book is surprisingly uneventful. There are countless repetitions (and jokes) of how old the characters are, and while two characters go missing (how convenient!), we never truly uncover the purpose of the mysterious message or the supercomputer. It feels like a missed opportunity to explore something truly profound. 

Don’t get me wrong; The Long Cosmos is a quick and easy read. It’s never boring, but it also didn’t hold my attention for long stretches. In fact, it says a lot that this was my second time reading the series, and I barely remember more than the basic premise. The story just doesn’t leave a lasting impression, which is a shame for what could have been an epic finale to a series with a thought-provoking and interesting premise. 
As it turns out, the premise is the most exciting part of the whole series.

Have you read The Long Cosmos or any of the other books in The Long Earth series? Did you feel the same way, or did the finale resonate more with you? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena 

Wrap Up: October 2025

Hi everyone

October has been the perfect month for cozy evenings in; rainy, dark, and chilly. There’s nothing better than curling up on the couch with a good book, a warm cup of tea (or a diet soda, if I’m feeling rebellious), and maybe a little snack. Wrapped in a blanket, lost in another world, what could be more perfect? 
And I read some great books!

Here's what I read. 

- Mark Manson: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

- Cameron Johnston: The Maleficent Seven

- Ben Aaronovitch: The Masquerades of Spring

- Roald Dahl: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

- Jonathan French: The Free Bastards 

- Terry Pratchett: The Fifth Elephant

- Grant Snider: The Art of Living 

- Delia Owens: Where the Crawdads Sing

- Dennis E. Taylor: Not Till We Are Lost 

And there was one book I could not finish

- Michaeleen Doucleff: Hunt, Gather, Parent 

How was your reading month? Did you discover any new favorites or revisit old ones? I like rereading and discovering new books. What about you? I’d love to hear what you’ve been reading!

Happy reading!
Helena 

Terry Pratchett: The Fifth Elephant

Hi everyone

I just finished The Fifth Elephant, the 24th book in the Discworld series, written by one of the best authors ever; sir Terry Pratchett. I’ve had my copy for ages, and I think this was my third time reading it, yet it's still as engrossing and hilarious as ever.

"They say that diplomacy is a gentle art. That mastering it is a lifetime's work. But you do need a certain inclination in that direction. It's not something you can just pick up on the job.
A few days ago Sam Vimes was a copper – an important copper, true – chief of police – but still, at his core, a policeman. But today he is an ambassador - to the mysterious, fat-rich country of Uberwald. Today, Sam Vimes is also a man on the run.
At some point during his ambassadorship, things went very wrong. It's snowing. It's freezing. And if Vimes can't make it through the forest, with only his wits and the gloomy trousers of Uncle Vanya (don't ask), there's going to be a terrible war.
There are monsters on his trail. They're bright. They're fast. They're werewolves - and they're catching up." 

I LOVED this book. 

The story had everything (with the exception of the witches) I adore in the Discworld books. Carrot and Angua and their relationship, the always hilarious Gaspode, multiple Igors, a pregnancy, Detritus and his piecemaker, Vimes and Lady Sybil, Colon and Nobbs, the lovely Cheery ...

My husband can attest to how laugh-out-loud The Fifth Elephant is. There's Colon's stupidity, Igor-speak, the lisping of the vampires, Vimes as an unwilling Duke, Gaspode's talking, ... This is a very, very funny book.  

I loved learning more about Angua’s past, and Lady Sybil remains one of my favorite characters. She feels like an inspirational person, someone I’d love to have as a friend.

Beyond the humor and brilliant storytelling, we can’t forget Pratchett’s signature blend of hidden morals and social commentary. He touches on coming out, acceptance, sexism (both overt and subtle), mixed-race relationships, racism, and the clash between traditionalism and modern thinking.

Highly, higly recommended. If you love a story full of love wit, heart, and a story that makes you think while you laugh, The Fifth Elephant is a must-read.

Happy reading!
Helena 

Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter: The Long Utopia

Hi everyone

This was my second time reading the fourth book in The Long Earth series by Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter.
I have to admit, the experience was just as emotional and thought-provoking as the first time.

" 2045-2059. After the cataclysmic upheavals of Step Day and the Yellowstone eruption humanity is spreading further into the Long Earth, and society, on a battered Datum Earth and beyond, continues to evolve.
Now an elderly and cantankerous AI, Lobsang lives in disguise with Agnes in an exotic, far-distant world. He’s convinced they’re leading a normal life in New Springfield – they even adopt a child – but it seems they have been guided there for a reason. As rumours of strange sightings and hauntings proliferate, it becomes clear that something is very awry with this particular world.
Millions of steps away, Joshua is on a personal journey of discovery: learning about the father he never knew and a secret family history. But then he receives a summons from New Springfield. Lobsang now understands the enormity of what’s taking place beneath the surface of his earth – a threat to all the worlds of the Long Earth.
To counter this threat will require the combined efforts of humankind, machine and the super-intelligent Next. And some must make the ultimate sacrifice... "

I still find the ending difficult to read. Even though I don’t particularly like Sally, the way her story concludes left me surprisingly emotional. It’s one of those moments that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.

The scope of this series is staggering. The idea of alien species from another universe aiming to destroy the Long Earth is terrifying—it’s the kind of concept that makes you pause and wonder, What if? 

The shift in perspective for Joshua’s family history threw me off a bit. I think it would have felt more natural if it had been told from Nelson’s point of view or through the narrator’s voice.

Lobsang’s journey, however, was beautifully done. Despite being an AI, he’s so deeply human in his emotions and reasoning. His decision to escape to another world and start anew with Agnes is both heartbreaking and beautiful. They make such a sweet, unlikely couple.

And I’m so relieved Joshua and Sally never became a couple. It would have been too easy, too forced. Their dynamic works much better as it is, and I appreciate that the authors resisted the urge to push them into a romantic relationship.

The Long Utopia is a book that makes you think, feel, and wonder. It’s a great continuation of a series that challenges our perceptions of humanity, technology, and the universe itself.
Have you read The Long Utopia or any of The Long Earth series? What did you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena 

 

Wrap Up: July 2025

Hi everyone

July was a fantastic reading month for me! We were on holiday for two weeks, which meant fewer chores and more time to relax; especially in the evenings. With two daughters (3 and 7) and plenty of fun activities during the day, finding quiet time to read can be a challenge, but I managed to sneak in some pages whenever the girls were playing together. And, of course, once they were in bed and everything was tidied up, it was my time to dive into a book and my husband's time for gaming or watching a series.

Here's what I read in July:

- Brian McClellan: Promise of Blood

- Yuval Noah Harari: Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow

- Ilona Andrews: Magic Burns

- Peter Brown: The Wild Robot Protects

- Christian White: The Nowhere Child

- Terry Pratchett: Carpe Jugulum 

- David Dalglish: A Dance of Mirrors 

- Marie Brennan: The Waking of Angantyr 

- Margaret Atwood: Surfacing 

And there's one book I didn't finish:

- Blake Crouch: Dark Matter 

How was your reading month? Did you find more time to read, or did life get in the way? Do you read more or less when you’re on holiday? I’d love to hear how you balance reading and relaxation!

Happy reading!
Helena 

Terry Pratchett: Carpe Jugulum

Hi everyone

Carpe Jugulum is the 23rd book in Terry Pratchett's wonderful, amazing Discworld series.
I've had my copy for years; it's an older edition but I so love their classic covers.
This was my third time reading Carpe Jugulum.

"Mightily Oats has not picked a good time to be priest. He thought he'd come to Lancre for a simple ceremony. Now he's caught up in a war between vampires and witches.
There's Young Agnes, who is really in two minds about everything. Magrat, who is trying to combine witchcraft and nappies, Nanny Ogg ... and Granny Weatherwax, who is big trouble.
And the vampires are intelligent. They've got style and fancy waistcoats. They're out of the casket and want a bite of the future. Mightily Oats knows he has a prayer, but he wishes he had an axe." 

I adore the Nac Mac Feegle. They are a wondrous, hilarious and genius addition to The Discworld. And their interactions with the witches never fail to make me laugh out loud. The way they barge into scenes, cause chaos, and steal every moment is pure Pratchett brilliance.

Carpe Jugulum's plot is not my favourite; I find the story to be a bit too slow at times. But I did enjoy rereading it, mostly for the characters and the humor.

The witches are fantastic as always; Granny Weatherwax being her terrifyingly brilliant self, Magrat as a mother (which is such an emotional and relatable arc), Nanny Ogg, who always makes me smile and Perdita is amazing. The scenes where Nanny Ogg becomes "the other one" are out of this world fantastic.

The humor is Pratchett at his best; sharp, clever, and so funny it hurts. And his take on religion through Mightily Oats is thought-provoking, respectful, funny, and introspective all at once. Pratchett has this uncanny ability to make you laugh while also making you think deeply about life, faith, and humanity.
It’s not my absolute favorite Discworld novel (with 41 books in the series (not counting the extras!), it’s impossible to pick just one favorite). For me, there are at least 10 that tie for first place, and Carpe Jugulum isn’t one of them because of the pacing, but it’s still amazing nonetheless.

So, if you haven’t yet, go read some Discworld novels! 

Happy reading.
Helena 

Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter: The Long Mars

Hi everyone

This was my second time reading Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxters The Long Mars; the third book in The Long Earth series. You can find my other reviews here. 

"2040-2045: In the years after the cataclysmic Yellowstone eruption there is massive economic dislocation as populations flee Datum Earth to myriad Long Earth worlds. Sally, Joshua, and Lobsang are all involved in this perilous work when, out of the blue, Sally is contacted by her long-vanished father and inventor of the original Stepper device, Willis Linsay. He tells her he is planning a fantastic voyage across the Long Mars and wants her to accompany him. But Sally soon learns that Willis has ulterior motives ...
Meanwhile U. S. Navy Commander Maggie Kauffman has embarked on an incredible journey of her own, leading an expedition to the outer limits of the far Long Earth.
For Joshua, the crisis he faces is much closer to home. He becomes embroiled in the plight of the Next: the super-bright post-humans who are beginning to emerge from their 'long childhood' in the community called Happy Landings, located deep in the Long Earth. Ignorance and fear are causing 'normal' human society to turn against the Next - and a dramatic showdown seems inevitable . . . "

This was a mixed reading experience. 

The first half of the book flew by, I was completely hooked by the adventure and the worldbuilding. But by the time I reached the second half, it started to drag. The problem? Both Maggie and Sally spend most of the book just exploring, stepping from world to world with too little happening to keep the momentum going. There are a few interesting moments, but they’re too few and far between to maintain the excitement.

That said, I did enjoy the writing and the story. The ideas are fascinating, and the characters are as compelling as ever. It’s just that the book feels too long for what actually happens.

Overall, it was still an enjoyable read, but I wish the pacing had been tighter and the adventures more dynamic. If you love exploration-heavy sci-fi with big ideas, you might still appreciate it, but don’t expect non-stop action.

Have you read The Long Mars? Did you feel the same way, or did it keep you engaged the whole way through? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena

Wrap Up: April 2025

Hi everyone

April was wonderful; we had plenty of sunshine breaking through the typical Belgian grey skies, and I read a ton too! I’m excited to share what I dove into. 

Here's what I read:

- Dennis E. Taylor: Earthside

- Terry Pratchett: The Last Continent 

- Becky Chambers: A Prayer for the Crown-Shy

- Stephen King: The Dark Half 

- Neil Gaiman: The Ocean at the End of the Lane 

- Bessel van der Kolk: The Body Keeps the Score

- Richard Matheson: A Stir of Echoes

- Peter Brown: The Wild Robot Escapes

What about you? How was your reading month? Did you find any new favorites or re-read an old beloved book? I’d love to hear what you’ve been reading!

Happy reading!
Helena

Terry Pratchett: The Last Continent

 Hi everyone

Terry Pratchett's novel The Last Continent is his 22nd book in the Discworld series.
This is my third time reading it and I can't really remember where I got it, but you can surely buy the series here. 

"IT'S THE DISCWORLD LAST CONTINENT AND IT'S GOING TO DIE IN A FEW DAYS, EXCEPT...
Who is this hero striding across the red desert? Sheep shearer, beer drinker, bush ranger, and someone who'll even eat a Meat Pie Floater when he's sober.
A man in a hat whose luggage follows him on little legs. Yes, it's Rincewind, the inept wizard who can't even spell wizard. He's the only hero left."

The Last Continent isn’t my favorite Discworld novel, but it’s still a blast. It’s fun, fast-paced, and packed with references and Discworld lore. The story is crazy in the best way, with so much happening that you’re never bored. Rincewind’s usual brand of chaos is on full display, and the sheer absurdity of the plot makes it a joy to read.
The humor is sharp, the satire is clever, and the world-building is as rich as ever. Pratchett’s knack for poking fun at anything and everything is a highlight here. And, of course, the Luggage steals every scene it’s in (as always).
I'm just not a fan of Rincewind so his books are never my favorites.

While The Last Continent might not be Pratchett’s best, it’s still a wildly entertaining read. It’s funny, clever, and full of heart, everything you’d expect from a Discworld novel. 

Have you read The Last Continent? What's your favorite Discworld book? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena

My Favorite Books of 2024

Hi everyone

In 2024, I read a total of 92 books! But not every book was a 5-star read, so I wanted to share a curated list of the ones that truly stood out to me. If I’ve reviewed any of these in the last few months, you can click on the title to read my full thoughts!

Here’s the list in alphabetical order: 

- Stephen Aryan: Magebane

- Nathan Filer: The Shock of the Fall

- Yuval Noah Harari: Sapiens

- Eowyn Ivey: The Snow Child

- Stephen King: Pet Sematary

- Brian McClellan: Sins of Empire

- Brian McClellan: Wrath of Empire

- Brian McClellan: Blood of Empire

- Pascal Mercier: Night Train to Lisbon

- Sequoia Nagamatsu: How High We Go in the Dark

- Emma Newman: Before, After, Alone

- Emma Newman: Planetfall 

- Terry Pratchett: Feet of Clay

- Terry Pratchett: Jingo

- Dennis E. Taylor: A Change of Plans

I’d love to see your list of 5-star reads from 2024! What books stayed with you? Which ones blew you away? Let me know in the comments; I’m always looking for new recommendations!

Happy reading!
Helena

Wrap Up: December 2024

Hi everyone

December, the last month of the year, the final chance to dive into the books you’ve been meaning to read all year, or to finish those series you’ve been putting off. For me, it was a mix of wrapping up old favorites and exploring new stories. 

Here’s what I read last month:

- Brian McClellan: Blood of Empire

- Muriel Barbery: A Single Rose

- Emma Newman: After Atlas

- Peter Brown: The Wild Robot

- Lucy Jones: Matrescence 

- Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan: The Gutter Prayer

- Mike Bockoven: Fantasticland 

- Marie Brennan: Driftwood 

- Becky Chambers: A Psalm for the Wild-Built

- Terry Pratchett: Jingo 

Did you finish any series or discover a new favorite last month? I’d love to hear what you read, let’s swap recommendations!

Happy reading!
Helena

Terry Pratchett: Jingo

Hi everyone

Jingo is the 21st book in the best series of all time; DISCWORLD; written by the inimitable Sir Terry Pratchett. and it’s just as brilliant as the first time.

"DISCWORLD GOES TO WAR, WITH ARMIES OF SARDINES, WARRIORS, FISHERMEN, SQUID AND AT LEAST ONE VERY CAMP FOLLOWER.
As two armies march, Commander Vimes of Ankh-Morpork City Watch faces unpleasant foes who are out to get him... and that's just the people on his side. The enemy might be even worse."

As always, Jingo is fantastic. Terry Pratchett’s sharp wit, clever satire, and deep understanding of human nature are on full display here. The story is hilarious, the references are on point, and the characters are as lovable as ever.
Vimes, Nobby, Carrot, Angua, Detritus, Sybil, Vetinari, Colon, ... I adore them all. Each one brings something unique and wonderful to the story. The dynamic between them is what makes Discworld so special, and Jingo showcases it perfectly.

What I love most about Jingo is how Pratchett takes a serious topic and turns it into a satire that’s both hilarious and thought-provoking. It’s a book that makes you laugh while also making you think, and that’s classic Terry Pratchett.

Have you read Jingo? Let me know; I’d love to geek out over Terry Pratchett with you!

Happy reading!
Helena

Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter: The Long War

 Hi everyone

This was my second time reading Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxters The Long War; the second book in The Long Earth series. You can find my first review here. 

“A generation after the events of The Long Earth, mankind has spread across the new worlds opened up by Stepping. Where Joshua and Lobsang once pioneered, now fleets of airships link the stepwise Americas with trade and culture. Mankind is shaping the Long Earth - but in turn the Long Earth is shaping mankind... A new 'America', called Valhalla, is emerging more than a million steps from Datum Earth, with core American values restated in the plentiful environment of the Long Earth - and Valhalla is growing restless under the control of the Datum government...
Meanwhile the Long Earth is suffused by the song of the trolls, graceful hive-mind humanoids. But the trolls are beginning to react to humanity's thoughtless exploitation... Joshua, now a married man, is summoned by Lobsang to deal with a gathering multiple crisis that threatens to plunge the Long Earth into a war unlike any mankind has waged before.”

My thoughts haven't changed; I still stand by my previous review. 

The storyline of the Chinese expedition should have been cut entirely. It was uninteresting, the characters were boring, and it didn’t add much to the overall plot of the book.

I really dislike Sally; maybe even more now that I have children of my own. I realize even more how she forces Joshua away from his son and wife and how manipulative she is. There’s no nuance to her character. She’s always harsh, hard, and uncaring toward others.

But I still love the setting; the idea of the Long Earths and I still love Joshua and his family, as well as Lobsang. Those elements keep me coming back to this series.

Have you read The Long War? Did you enjoy it more than I did, or did you feel the same way about Sally and the Chinese expedition? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena

Terry Pratchett: Dodger’s Guide to London

Hi again

This review is about the companion novel to Terry Pratchett’s Dodger.
I got the book as a gift from my mum and dad and it has 135 pages.
You can find all my Terry Pratchett reviews here.

“ROLL UP! ROLL UP! READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Ladies and Gents, Sir Jack Dodger brings you a most excellent Guide to London!
Did you know . . . ?
If a Victorian couldn’t afford a sweep, they might drop a goose down their chimney to clean it!
A posh lady’s unmentionables could weigh up to 40lbs!
Parliament had to be suspended during the Great Stink of 1858!
From the wretches of the rookeries to the posh nobs at Buckingham Palace, Dodger will show you every dirty inch of London.
Warning: Includes ’orrible murders, naughty ladies and plenty of geezers!”

This is a nice companion novel to Dodger but I would only recommend it to fans of Pratchett’s work and people interested in fictionalized Victorian London.
It’s sweet, interesting and humorous but it is something you’ll only read once or twice because there’s no real story. It’s a book filled with little tidbits and facts about London at that time.
Still, I am glad I read it if only because it is Pratchett and I love him.

3 STARS

Happy reading!
Helena

Terry Pratchett: Dodger

Hi everyone

This is my review for Terry Pratchett’s Dodger. Dodger is not part of the Discworld series and though there is a companion novel it is a standalone story.
My copy has 403 pages and I got it from Bol.
You can read all my Terry Pratchett reviews here.

“Dodger is a tosher – a sewer scavenger living in the squalor of Dickensian London.
Everyone who is nobody knows Dodger. Anyone who is anybody doesn’t.
But when he rescues a young girl from a beating, suddenly everybody wants to know him.
And Dodger’s tale of skulduggery, dark plans and even darker deeds begins . . .”

I definitely enjoyed this novel but it’s very different from Pratchett’s Discworld novels so keep that in mind. This is a Victorian novel set in London. It’s more or less historically accurate and I really appreciated that fact. I liked the setting a lot.

Charles Dickens is one of the main-characters in this book. How great is that! And he is a really cool character too. Solomon is amazing and such a sweet one. And then Dodger. Well Dodger made me smile, laugh, cringe, sigh and hope.
The story isn’t that special though; it’s rather repetitive and even boring at times.

But it didn’t capture me as much as his other novels. I can’t really say why but I wasn’t as interested in the story as I’d hoped to be. I didn’t love it.

3.5 STARS

Happy reading!
Helena

Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter: The Long Utopia

Hi everyone

I finished the fourth book in The Long Earth series by Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter.
My copy has a gorgeous cover and counts 434 pages. I got it on holiday in Amsterdam.
You can find all reviews in the series here.

                                                *    SPOILERS    *

The Long Utopia wasn’t bad but it wasn’t as engaging and interesting as the previous ones.
There’s one overarching plot and a bunch of family history. The history was a nice addition but it was too big a part of the book. It should have been more of a side plot.

It was enjoyable and entertaining though.
I simply love the worldbuilding and the general idea of this Long Earth. It’s truly fascinating and it made me think and dream.
The characters are great and I love them all and those giant bugs really gave me the absolute creeps.
The ending is so sad it almost made me tear-up.

This book is more grounded than the ones before. There’s less time to explore the worlds and more time to get to know the characters and what’s happening all around.
All in all, I enjoyed it but it was too slow and the real plot was of too little importance.

Happy reading!
Helena