The Hunger Games - join the revolution

Last year I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to go on a seven week overseas trip with my boyfriend to England and parts of Europe. 

To say it was an amazing experience is an understatement - it was truly unforgettable.

In fact there are so many moments in my life now that remind me of our time overseas – I guess you could call them flash backs.  I have these flash backs at random times and it includes everything from fearing for our lives in Paris (long story, lol), to getting engaged in Cinque Terre, OR even something as simple as what book I read while travelling.

The book in question was The Hunger Games (HG), by Suzanne Collins.  

Before our trip I was searching for a book that I could take with me but then leave behind so we didn’t have to carry the weight.  A friend of mine suggested the HG however – she did warn that I may not want to get rid of the book after I read it.  She knew me well enough to know that I’m sentimental when it comes to my books. I have always bought them and love looking at my collection.  

I didn’t know much about the book before I read it, so did not know what to expect.  From turning the first page I was transported from reality and taken on an adventure – it was intense, dramatic, addictive and breathtaking.   The story has romance, suspense and physical adventure. 

I have a lot of praise for the first book in the series however I must admit I was disappointed with the second installment, and extremely disappointed in the third.  That’s not to say I don’t recommend reading all three – I do!! Actually I cannot see how you couldn’t after reading the first – because you just have to know what happens next.   

With regards to my disappointment - I put this down to the fact that my expectations were very high after reading the first book.  Unfortunately for me the following books didn’t deliver and I was disappointed with how some of the story lines ended.

I recommend joining the revolution!! Read the HG and then get to the movies to see it on the big screen – SO EXCITED!!  

Signing off

Em (hoot, hoot)

PS - Oh by the  way, the book survived.  My friend was right, I couldn't leave it behind :)

Matthew Reilly

One of my all time favourite writers is international bestselling author Matthew Reilly.  Ever since I read Ice Station I have been hooked. 

In particular I love both the Jack West and Scarecrow series however; I still have a soft spot for all of his standalone novels.  One such standalone book is Contest - if I had to describe this book in one word I would say it was 'epic'! Actually I can describe it in a number of single words 'epic' is just the start.  'Awesome', 'heart-stopping' and 'sensational' also come to mind quite easily.

Matthew really has a way with words - no one (that I have ever come across) writes action thrillers like he does! Every book I read I am amazed at the different twists and turns the story takes you on - you literally speed read just to get to the next page.  I also love that he creates characters that you either fall in love or sympathise with or hate with a passion.  It's one of those situations where I have to tell myself 'these people are not real!'.  I do honestly think this is what makes a good story teller.

If you love action you should definitely not miss a Reilly novel. Even if you don't like action - give him a go, I bet he surprises you.  

Quote of the day:
'I think people like escapism, and that is exactly what Ice Station is. Pure unadulterated, escapist entertainment.'  - Matthew Reilly