2. The Country-House Burglar by Michael Gilbert

(written Dec 6, 2015 catching up, actually had not recorded when I actually read this, so the date could be off, but it was definitely part of my Gilbert/Ambler binge early 2015)

I enjoyed this one as all Gilberts, but it is not my favourite.  Focuses on the older people, who are cool, but I didn't find them particularly compelling.  The culprit didn't seem super connected with the rest of the story either, so the ending was not totally satisfying.  Still, I'm picking nits because all of Gilberts books are worth reading.

2. The Mote in God's Eye by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle

(Written Dec 3, 2015 catching up)

It seems like a lot of the classic sci-fi books from the 70s and 80s (is that the Silver Age?) are about first contact, with most of the story following the actual learning process.  Lots going on in this book.  I really enjoyed it, but found it ultimately not sure if it wanted to be a political treatise on xenophobia or an actual story.  The comparison of the alien advanced tech compared to the human was innovative and believable.

1. What's So Funny by Donald E. Westlake

[written Dec 1, 2015 catching up.]

Westlake was still very much in form when he wrote this second to last Dortmunder caper.  Great characters and situations that hilariously and consistently screw Dortmunder yet somehow you love it while still rooting for him.  Love the upstate New York cabin. Though it's comedic, Westlake demonstrates once again his mastery for procedure and description of place.

2014 Year-end Review

[writing this on Dec 1, 2015 catching up.]

I can't actually remember my thoughts at the end of 2014, but looking back, I am pleased at my output and the diversity thereof.  Not bad considering my ongoing internet addiction, which filled much of my little free time between parenting and work.  So basically same excuses as at the end of 2013.  We strive on.  Reading is great.  Let's all keep doing it.