Hello, My Name Is Alice

Paco's Story

2010-09-01T08:00:00.004+08:00

Paco's Story

By Larry Heinemann

Publisher: Vintage
Published: 2005
ISBN-13: 9781400076833
224 pages

Page 3, Chapter 1, The First Clean Fact: Let's begin with the first clean fact, James: This ain't no war story. War stories are out--one, two , three, and a heave-ho, into the lake you go with all the other alewife and foamy harbor scum. But isn't it a pity. All those crinkly, soggy sorts of laid-by tellings crowded together as thick and pitiful as street cobbles, floating mushy bellied up, like so much moldy shag rug (dead as rusty-ass doornails and smelling so peculiar and un-Christian). Just isn't it a pity, because here and there and yonder among the corpses are some prize-winning, leg-pulling daisies--some real pop-in-the-oven muffins, so to speak, some real softly lobbed, easy-out line drives.

I've been following Sandy Nawrot's participation of Paco's Story Read-along and couldn't resist reading the book myself. I ordered it from Book Depository (at the top left-hand corner, that's the cover of the book I bought) and when I received it in the mail, I jumped in straight away. Almost immediately I'm being blown away by its language and slang. Never have I read a war novel that shocked me into the reality of its brutality. Instead of a regular book review, I have decided to use the read-a-long format and let the discussion questions form the picture.

WEEK 1
(Chapters 1 and 2)

Who do you think the narrator is?
At this point, I still do not know. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clearer. Please see my answer for Week 3, Question 1. An interesting point is that the narrator tells Paco's story to James but James is not a character in the story. Heinemann explains this: The "James" comes from a custom of street folks engaging total strangers by calling them "Him" or "Jack" or sometimes "Jake" in a jivey sort of way [...]. It is like sharing a story across a kitchen table, etc. While this is explained in my edition, I read that in some other editions it was not.
What do the opening paragraphs of Chapter 1 tell you about the narrator?
They are filled with slang and "hard" dialogue. The narrator makes it clear that he is one of the grunts. The language is certainly not kid-friendly and is abundant with swearing. I tried to be in his shoes and followed his story that way.
How do you think Paco’s survival impacted the medic’s world view? And how did that change the medic?
The medic couldn't stomach what had happened to Paco. You see, Paco is the only one they found alive an was in a terrible, terrible condition, they wished he was dead. Being a medic, he had seen so many dead bodies and soon-will-be-dead ones after they are rescued. Why would Paco be any different? Paco's survival is a miracle.
Is Paco’s Story narrated in a way that is “too” honest?
I like it the way it is presented. Paco's Story shocked me; "slapped" me right, left and center; disgusted me; made me cry (when he talks about his father and the Army medals); everything about this book touches me. It is harsh and graphic. Dark and disturbing. It gives me a realization that all the people in this book, they have a story.

WEEK 2
(Chapters 3 and 4)

Do you think Paco is ready to rejoin the living and will he easily re-enter “normal” life?
Try going through what he has gone through and then answer this question. I think it will never be "normal" for him anymore. Not in this life.
How do you think the lively atmosphere of Rita’s Tender Tap affects Paco?
He is a man of few words and he is very direct when he speaks. He has a mission when he steps foot into Rita's Tender Tap and that is to look for a job and a place to stay. He may feel self-conscious with his physical condition holding a cane, limping, and all. But I felt that he is letting of all that go and focuses on his mission.
Do you think Heinemann made the right choice in narrator, or do you believe Paco should be telling his own story?
I like how it is done in the book. It feels like an observation and it's refreshing to have someone else tells Paco's story. It might feel different if Paco were to tell his own story, but then you see, Paco doesn't want to talk about it.
Do you think the side stories about the medic who found Paco, the bus driver, and Mr. Elliot, etc., add to the narrative or take too much attention away from Paco, who seems to hide in the background during these asides?
My answer is no. It is interesting to see what goes on in the thoughts of these people or how their lives are affected by it. They add to the story. I'm going to parrot Sandy in this because that's what I was thinking too. Here's what Sandy said: "In Mr. Elliot, we see a man damaged by his own wars and ghosts, and didn't even recognize the existence of the Vietnam War. The bus driver saw Paco as one in thousands that pass before his eyes in a year's time. The owner of the diner, on the other hand, was a Marine and saw in Paco a brother. Each of these characters represents everyman." Well said, my friend.
How do you feel about Paco at this point in the book?
I feel sorry for Paco, and here he is wounded in war and having difficulties trying to stay afloat in his own country. But I also admire his tenacity and determination.

WEEK 3
(Chapter 5)

Is the identity of the narrator becoming more clear?
It wasn't clear to me at the beginning of the book and I carried that big question with me until I've reached this chapter. It is not until page 136 of the book that it dawned on me that it is the ghost of of a soldier or their ghosts in Paco's unit. Check out these passages:
"Not in all the hours that he lay terribly wounded--the rest of us long gone, Paco as good as left for dead--did he ask."

"No James, Paco has never asked, Why me? It is we--the ghosts, the dead--who ask, Why him?

So Paco was made to dream and remember, and we make it happen in this way, particularly on those nights when his work--washing the last of the dishes, clearing up and stowing down after closing--goes particularly well [...]. It is at those moments that is least wary, most receptive and dreamy. So we bestir and descend. We hover around him like an aura [...]."
What is it about the work at the Texas Lunch that makes it so easy for Paco to assimilate?
"The process is straightforward and mechanical, James, all arms and back, side-stepping and skipping--Paco leaning over the washtub, slopping garbage and burning-hot soapy bleach water on his T-shirt and doubled-up apron; his fingernails are white with grease and his face squinched up and one eye squeezed shut because of the cigarette he keeps in his lips. First the breakfast dishes (often every dish in the place) and some of the pots and pans, then catch up all afternoon (Paco coming to know many of the dishes and much of the cookware as individual objects--on sight; knowing that he washes some things five or six times a day)."
Paco does his job in a predictable, methodical manner, just like in the military. He knows precisely what to expect in his job, what to do when his day starts and how his day will end. I'm glad that Ernest Monroe, the owner of Texas Lunch and former World War II Guadalcanal Marine who also fought on Iwo Jima, gave him the job. He seems to know that the day Paco steps into his restaurant, it is more than just to get lunch. A warrior knows what a warrior needs.
What is the purpose of the dream sequences?
Actually, I am not sure why the dreams are there. Maybe the ghosts of his fallen comrades want him to remember what had happened. Paco seems happy and contented, and it is during those times that the ghosts give him those dreams. There are parts that give me the creeps, so try to imagine this:
"We come to stand behind him against the wall--we ghosts as flat and pale as a night-light, easy on the eyes. We reach out as one and begin to massage the top of his head; his scalp cringes and tingles. We work our way down the warm curve of his neck--so soothing and slack--and apply ourselves most deeply to the solid meat back of his shoulders. And Paco always obliges us; [...], when Paco is all but asleep, that is the moment we whisper in his ear, and give him something to think about--a dream or a reverie."
The dreams, they are not happy ones. They are dark dreams and I share the same thoughts as Sandy, his dreams are the true indication of his psyche. I noticed too that when I dream, my dreams (or nightmares) often reflect the state of my mind.
Why do you think Ernest and Jesse are so forthcoming with their war stories, but Paco is not?
People react differently to various life events and it is no different with Paco. Some find it easy to share and are able to talk about it openly, but some prefer to keep tragedies to themselves. Paco is the sole survivor of the massacre that had befallen his unit at Fire Base Harriette in Vietnam. He was waiting to die after being out there in the sea of corpses and rotting flesh for two days. His body shattered, covered by flies and maggots. He now lives on daily ration of Librium and Valium. Now, you tell me if that was you and you would be able to talk about it.

WEEK 4
(Chapters 6 and 7)

What is the significance of the rape scene? How does it change your opinion of Paco?
The rape scene is one nasty bit in the story. The Vietcong girl who had ambushed the 1st platoon's night listening post and shot two of them dead, was taken in by the third guy. She's now a prisoner and Gallagher, one of the guys in the unit, decides to do something to her. Not only Gallagher but the whole platoon takes turn to have a go at the girl. And then he finishes her off with his .357 Magnum. Would this rape have happened if the Vietcong girl had never ambushed the unit and get herself caught? I'm not saying that what Gallagher did was right, though.

I wouldn't say that I am disappointed in Paco. I don't think Paco participated in the terrible act of violence against the girl. Yes, he observed it but I think there is nothing he can do. Think about it. Two of his guys were killed by this girl. He was in the company of men who were raging both mentally and hormonally. Even the Lieutenant who heard everything wasn't doing anything about it.
Cathy’s diary plays an integral role in Paco’s final decision. Why do you think it has such a drastic impact?
Paco knows that Cathy has been observing him from her window when Paco's at work. Paco's attracted to her and maybe, just maybe, they could have something going. One day, the night after he heard the sexual escapade of Cathy with her boyfriend, he discovers that someone has been to his room when he comes home from work. The only person he could think off is Cathy and so he goes to Cathy's room the next day. That is when he finds her diary and reads it.

Paco discovers though the diary that Cathy "was" attracted to him, but when she saw his scars and disabilities, her opinion of him changes. I dislike the way she writes about him in her diary. Paco then knows that there is nothing there for him in this town.
What are some of the similarities between Vietnam and Boone, Texas? Differences?
I'm not sure how to answer this so I am going to skip this one. I will be researching more about this, though.
Were you satisfied with the ending? What are your overall impressions of the book?
I had almost expected the same ending. When you are disabled and return wounded in the war as a veteran, your life almost always does not mean anything anymore. Looking for a job would be extremely difficult. Trying to survive is hardship. I hope what I have read from the websites of the U.S. Army and Veteran Affairs about caring for the veterans are true. I hope they truly care and are not just looking it and sounding good.

This is a book that I will remember for a long time. I have only read about the heroic stuff and the good side, but not from the wounded soldiers themselves. Well, I have some sort of idea prior to this, but now it is frozen solid in my head. Reading stories like this make me rethink the harsh reality of being a soldier.

Yes, I am satisfied with the ending. I hope Paco finds what he is looking for. Perhaps he would find someone who would love him for who and what he has become. I hope he stays strong. I wish for the best for him.

From the back cover: Paco Sullivan is the only man in Alpha Company to survive a cataclysmic Vietcong attack on Fire Base Harriette in Vietnam. Everyone else is annihilated. When a medic finally rescues him almost two days later, Paco is waiting to die, flies and maggots covering his burnt, shattered body. He winds up back in the U.S. with his legs full of pins, daily rations of Librium and Valium, and no sense of what to do next. One evening, on the trail of a rainstorm, he limps off a bus and into a small town of Boone, determined to find a real job and a real bed--but no matter how hard he works, nothing muffles the anguish in his mind and body. Brilliantly and vividly written, Paco's Story--winner of a National Book Award--plunges the reader into the violence and casual cruelty of the Vietnam War, and the ghostly aftermath that often dealt the harshest blows.

The Winners: Tattoo Shop Mysteries Series

2010-09-01T00:00:00.009+08:00

Announcing the winners of...

*DRUM ROLL, please...*

(1) Darlyn
dArLyn & bOoKs

The name is randomly picked by random.org

(2) Kathleen
Boarding In My Forties

The name is randomly picked by random.org

CONGRATULATIONS, Darlyn and Kathleen! Random.org picked you as the winners! I will be getting in touch with both of you to obtain your mailing addresses. Many thanks to ALL who have participated!

Oh, by the way, Driven by Ink will be released on September 7 and I will be posting my book the day before. Stay tuned!

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Happy Independence Day, Malaysia!

2010-08-31T00:00:00.008+08:00

Malaysia is a lovely country. It's not perfect, but it's great. This is one place where you can get all kinds of food: Malay, Indian, Chinese, Thai, Western, Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, and on and on. It's summer all year long with showers of blessing (and occasional flash floods in some areas, but still...). There is freedom. There is opportunity.

And I want to share an article I "hijacked" from the August issue of CLEO Magazine, Malaysia Edition. I nicked it (not word-for-word) in the spirit of Merdeka! celebration: 10 Things to Love About Malaysians.

#1 Everyone is related
Oh yes, we can go around calling perfect strangers "uncle" and "aunty" but we are in no way related to them. It is our term of endearment. I do that all the time. Whether it is kak (short for 'kakak'), or bang (short for 'abang'), or jie (older sister in Chinese), etc. we are an affectionate lot.

#2 Pull-table culture
When we hang out together but there is not enough space around one table, we merge two tables together! Nobody is ever left behind or left out.

#3 Opinionated (silently)
Malaysia is a multicultural society, yet we live in harmony. Malaysians are one of the most tolerant people you'll ever meet. But that does not mean we do not have any say, but we are a resourceful lot so if you'd only ask, we have some insightful feedback to share with you.

#4 Let's get loud
We are an enthusiastic lot and we can get quite passionate about what we talk about. Our facial expressions and--I love how CLEO puts this--epic hand gestures, makes us quite some storytellers and entertainers.

#5 "Have you eaten?"
Malaysians almost always ask this. In various languages, it sounds like this:
In Malay: "Dah makan?"
In Tamil: "Sapa de?"
In Cantonese: "Sek bao mei?"
In Hokkien: "Jia bah boi?"
Here are some of the photos I took in various places where food abound. They're all yummy Malaysian food (click on the pictures for related blog posts).

The Famous Penang char kuey teow (fried flat noodles)
Satay Kajang
My favorite nasi lemak
Delicious Malaysian desserts and kuih-muih
Ayam percik (Seasoned barbecued chicken)

#6 "Got discount ah?"
We love a good bargain. 'Nuf said.

#7 Mind your language
For emphasis, Malaysians end (almost) every sentence with the suffix "la" or "ar". For instance, a question: "Do you want something to drink?" should be replied with "No la". "Where did you go?" would be replied with "Nowhere ar." Also, Malaysian-English is often shorten or simplified.

#8 Go-getters
Count me as one of them. You want something? You work hard and work out the action plan to achieve your desire.

#9 Curiosity killed the cat?
We are simply observant and curious to see what's going on. That explains why a crowd form when there is a commotion in the mall, or when there's an accident on the road (people slow down to check it out even though it's none of their business).

#10 Ethnic Fridays
Since we are a multicultural nation, we celebrate our diversity by wearing traditional get-ups of various races. We are able to wear anything from an Indian Punjabi pantsuit to a Malay baju kurung.

Some of the above may ring true for non-Malaysians, but in each of the things listed above, there's something distinctively Malaysians. I wish all my Malaysian friends a HAPPY MERDEKA and enjoy the celebration!

Walkumentary: My Daily Walk from the Office to Home

2010-08-28T14:26:00.014+08:00

I love walking! When I relocated to Penang two months ago (it's been two months already?!) for my new job, I realized that I could still continue my walking routine, so I did. Almost every day after work, I would walk home. During one of my walks, an idea came to me to "document" it. These are some of the snapshots I took using my iPhone while sweating my way home, but before that I'll throw in some tidbits about walking and its benefits throughout this post.

Article: You'd Rather Walk Than Drive
"Fit" people--defined as those who walk for about 30 minutes a day--are more likely to live longer than those who walk less, regardless of how much body fat they have, according to a recent study of 2,603 men and women. Similarly, overweight women can improve their heart health by adding just 10 minutes of activity to their daily routine, says recent research. So take a walk on your lunch hour, do laps around the field while your kid is at soccer practice--find ways to move a little more, every day.

(That's so true for me for I really do rather walk than drive.)

Let the walking begin!

It's very safe to walk within the premise where I work. There are pedestrian walkways and vehicles will stop whenever someone's crossing the road. I can be in my own little world as long as I am walking on these striped paths without the fear of being ran down by cars.

But once out of the place where I work and onto the main roads, the adventure begins but only for a short time. Once I cross this major busy road, I'll be OK for at least another 20 minutes when I walk in a housing area.
(Walk progress: 20% completed)

I discovered this route inside a housing area about a week ago. It's a lot better walking here than beside the main road and there is less traffic noise not to mention smoke from exhaust pipes.

I continue to discover small lanes within the same housing estate and decided to use them. If you wonder whether it is safe, I think it is. There are kids playing in front of their houses and residents relaxing there.
(Walk progress: 50% completed)

After about 30 minutes of walking right from the start, I will re-connect with my regular route. This is my favorite stretch because there are many trees.

Article: Walk Off 5 Times More Belly Fat
Pop quiz: Two women go walking. One finishes quickly; the other takes her time. They each burn about 400 calories. So who sheds more belly fat? The obvious answer: It's a tie. But a surprising new study shows that the one speed walking actually loses more.

I always like this part of the walk because the road is a lot wider and with less traffic. It's peaceful.
(Walk progress: 80% completed)

Article: Walk Off Belly Fat
You know walking workouts are great for your heart, legs, butt, and energy level. Here's a happy but little-known fact: It's also a great way to flatten your belly.

But then, all that ends in about 5 to 10 minutes...

After crossing the first half of the above, I have to wait to cross the second half. Good balancing work is required on this narrow divider. It can get quite unnerving when a large or several large vehicles such as buses and lorries zoom past. Feel the road "vibrate"...

When I reach this part of my walk, I'm 80% done. It's easier to cross it when the traffic light turns red and vehicles stop. Since the road is very narrow, I have to watch out for traffic from the opposite side.

I found another shortcut and cut through these houses or shops to avoid the narrow road (pic above) with hardly any space for walking. (Walk progress: 90% completed)

Another 10 minutes later, I'm home in my cozy apartment! HURRAH!

Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love

2010-08-24T23:08:00.012+08:00

Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love: Relationship Repair in a Flash

By Nancy Dreyfus, Psy.D

Publisher: Tarcher
Published: 2009 (Spiral-bound)
ISBN-13: 9781585427703
304 pages

Introduction: The idea behind this book is rooted in a piece of basic common sense: no matter what form of strain in your relationship is taking--be it jumping down each other's throats, nit-picking, walking on eggshells or endlessly revisiting an ancient grievance--it will be near impossible to begin to solve your problems if the energy between you and your partner feels more 'unfriendly' than 'friendly'.

How true. Words (the way they are used or not used) can make or strain a relationship. Do we hammer our point home? Or do we be non-defensive and seek another way to connect? How do we react when we are feeling threatened? How do we seek to generate goodwill and restore intimacy? No relationship is without its challenges and this book is like a first-aid kit that seeks to go right to the heart of "feeling connected." The author, Nancy Dreyfus, Psy.D., is a veteran psychotherapist, and she did a fine job with this book explaining when, why and how to use the statements on the flashcards.

What is special about this book is its flashcards concept. The idea was inspired when the author was working with a particular couple (unrelenting wife versus emotionally withdrawn husband). As a last resort, the author scribbled on a scrap of paper, Talk to me like I'm someone you love! and gently instructed the husband to hold it up to his wife. She noticed things began to shift between the couple and a strikingly more mutual connection began emerging in front of everyone's eyes.

This is how the flashcard looks like in the spiral-bound book. There are more than 100 "flashcards for real life" that can be used immediately during a crisis, which I think is a wonderful relationship tool that is both unique and insightful.

I try picturing myself having to use the book "in the heat of the moment" and actually flash a card. Is it practical? I do not know until I am in that situation that warrants the use of a flashcard. But I suppose I could--judging from the type of crisis I am facing--think through the situation (the relationship is, after all, important to me), and seek direction by picking from the theme the book is organized by:

Shifting Gear
The basic message here is that what is going on is not good, and one of you is asking for something different; transform something unattractive to something beautiful.
Setting Limits
Think of this set of flashcards are interpersonal stop signs for intense times (heartbreakingly frustrating to rageful). It demonstrates that you are willing to demonstrate goodwill and straightforward vulnerability (which brings us to the next theme).
Feeling Vulnerable
Think of it this way: As long as I stay in the self-protective mode, I will never really feel close to you or make it safe for you to feel close to me. Loosen the grip when your instinct is to protect yourself from the states that we were taught as undesirable. Be beautifully human. By wanting your special someone to recognize your vulnerability is wanting that person to see the real you.
Taking Responsibility
This section helps us to be more aware of "how you are feeling" and "how I look to you," and also to examine the impact of our sub-wholesome behavior on our partners. Build love and trust.
Giving Information
This section helps you to let your partner know how their stance is affecting you. This is the reverse of Section 4, and lets your partner look at themselves and their impact on you. If we leave things unspoken when they should be addressed, they make real intimacy close to impossible.
Getting Clarification
Interestingly, there are two versions of your partner available to you--the real one and the one in your head. So ask pointed questions so that your partner can take some real responsibility for the vibes they are putting out. Example of flashcard, When you treat me this way, it feels like you don't respect me. Is that true?
Apologizing
"Love means never having to say you're sorry" is crap. This section provides opportunities to take something that transpired between you and your partner that was petty, mean-spirited, hurtful or thoughtless, and turn the moment into something honorable. Example of flashcard, I'm sorry that I've been acting as if everything's all your fault.
Loving
Here, I am going to quote the author directly because she articulated it well: "Love is all it's cracked up to be. There are times when nothing else will do but loving your partner and, and in the case of this book, letting them know that they are, indeed, loved by you." Example of flashcard, I love you. I hate fighting. Can't we just hug?
Making Up
The happiest couple also fight, and sometimes frequently. The trick is to stay happy and the flashcards in this section are designed to "bring sparring or disconnected partners into a friendlier home-stretch." Example of flashcard, I want to hug you, and I'm not sure I am welcome. May I come closer? Now, the author did explain why this flashcard exists, because my first thought when I read this was, what? I need to ask for permission to hug? The author explained that this is not about negotiating for a hug, so I leave you to read the rest for yourself.

I took a very long time reading this book and frankly, the review is overdue. I am sorry for that but I do want to go through it properly because it is such an insightful read. It would be a sin to rush through it just for the sake of posting a review. Irregardless of your relationship status, whether you are single or attached, I recommend reading this book. It should be added into your personal library.

Note: I thank Lisa Roe of Online Publicist for sending me a copy of Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love: Relationship Repair in a Flash.

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Weekend Odds and Ends

2010-08-22T18:08:00.010+08:00

In which Alice plays with her iPhone
The first thing I did when I finally had the time to spend with my new iPhone was to download apps. I downloaded a few photography apps last weekend and took a few snapshots while I was at home in Kuala Lumpur.

This is Cat studying (yes, she studies everywhere including on the bed). She didn't pose for this and I was just doing some random shooting and lomo-ed the pic.

This is another un-posed pic of Cat doing her assignment later on the same night. I was lying down on the floor and decided to do a retro for this one.

This is done using the Imikimi Photo Frame apps. I took a picture of Hiro the furkid and popped him into this frame. He has grown into a really BIG boy. My mom has been pampering him a little too well...

I did a few self-portraits for myself, too, but those pics are for my private collection. Haha! I like the lomo effects and did a magazine-like compilation or collage of all the ones I self-took.

In which Alice reflects on her fitness and workout
In a dinner outing with friends, I got my body fat analysis done and I'm happy to know that I got glowing results. Here's a brief overview of my readings:

Height: 170 cm; Weight: 55.7 kg
Notes: For my height, my ideal weight should be at least 60 kg but right now I'm weighing 55.7 kg so I'm slightly underweight. But let's take a look at the broader picture...

Body Fat: 20.9%
Notes: The ideal measurement for female is less than 25% and my body fat weight ideally should be 15 kg but right now it's at 11.6 kg (20.9% * 55.7 kg), which is 3.4 kg below my ideal. But, I'm still healthy considering that for women, the classification for "Fit" is between 20% and 25%. The athletic ones have below 20%, which I'm actually aiming for.

Skeletal Muscle: 30.6% (HURRAH!)
Note: The ideal measurement for female is >28%.

Body Mass Index, BMI: 19.3 (HURRAH!)
Note: The healthy measurement for Asians is between 18.5 and 22.9.

And last but not least, the biological aging measurement. I'm 33 but right now, all of the above readings concluded that my body now is 26 years old (HURRAH! And before this I do get comments from friends who met me for the first time thinking I'm around that age). The ideal reading was 28 years, but my body did even better by going below that to 26.

So, what do I do with all this information? Keep up my good work, of course! I love exercising and working out, and I will continue to do so. Which brings me to the next topic...

In which Alice discovers a new route for her walk home after work
I make it a point to walk home after work and it takes about 50 minutes of braving the traffic and brisk walking. It's a fairly straight forward route that is one straight line once I get out of the Free Trade Zone. On Friday, I discovered a more relaxing route inside a housing area. It's a lot better than walking beside the busy road (I absolutely dislike the traffic) and I can now enjoy my walk even more. I still have to cross several very busy roads, but it's now 80% relaxing walk instead of 80% stressful.

In which Alice becomes Cinderella performing routine apartment maintenance
It's time to clean house and I relished my time mopping, cleaning, wiping. The laundry's done too. The apartment is now once again squeaky clean and smelling great. The green tea scent is pleasing. I also restocked my fridge with my favorite beverages such as coffee, cappuccino-flavored soy milk, and juices. I walked to the nearest mini mart to do my shopping. Walking makes me happy, but the hot weather doesn't. Having said that, dry and hot is better than raining, so I shouldn't be complaining...

***

I hope you are enjoying your weekend too, my friends. I'm going back to visiting blogs and hope to accomplish my Mission Google Reader as well. Here's wishing you a happy (and productive) weekend!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-08-17T22:26:00.004+08:00

I'm late! I'm late! But nevertheless, here's my post for this week's "edition" of the Simple Woman's Daybook.

Outside my window... I see the left Firefly wing. It was taken in total darkness as I was flying at night. The Firefly airplane is a cute one (I just had to use the word "cute" because it's really small and it's like a bus but with wings) and I like the plush leather seat. It's much more comfortable than Air Asia's, in my opinion. Do check out Firefly's fleet page if you want to know more about this little guy.

Unlike Air Asia that doesn't serve refreshments on board, but you can certainly purchase them, Firefly gives you a choice of either peanuts or crackers, and you get to pick from the two choices of drinks offered. I chose grapefruit last night.

I am listening to... some sentimental love songs. And the sound of the rain.

I am thinking... I am blessed.

I am thankful for... everything and everything.

I am wearing... myself out thinking thoughts in my head. There are just so much going on in there right now.

I am going... to flip through some magazines I bought today.

I am currently reading... Paco's Story by Larry Heinemann. Paco Sullivan is the sole survivor of an infantry company "pulverized to ash" in the Vietnam War. It's a book I discovered from a few of my favorite book blogger friends.

I am hoping... to get more sleep.

One of my favorite things... iPhone! I bought it about two weeks ago and only "played" with it last weekend. I'm so in love with it now, there's no turning back. It's gotta be iPhone all the way!

Few plans for the rest of the week... Make travel plans to the US because, dear friends, I AM COMING TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!

Have a great week ahead!

Special Appearance: Chew Hoong Ling, Author of I DON'T KNOW YOU BUT LET ME SAVE YOU

2010-08-14T17:47:00.006+08:00

Today, I am honored to have Chew Hoong Ling, the author of I DON'T KNOW YOU BUT LET ME SAVE YOU, make her guest appearance here. It coincides with her book release today (Congratulations, Hoong Ling!) and I am happy to host her on my blog. I met her last year and again this year when we were both speakers at conferences (Marcus Evans 2009 and VMAC 2010). She donated 60% of her liver to save a 13-year-old girl, and she will be sharing about her book and most important of all, her mission to encourage fellow Malaysians and people from all over the world to pledge for organ donations.

Everyone, please help me in welcoming the brave and formidable Chew Hoong Ling!

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About the Book
It began with a mass email requesting for what I thought was a blood donation. When I found out that it was a request for liver donation instead, I did not stop but took steps culminating in my donating part of my liver to save the thirteen-year-old Lee An Qi who was suffering from liver cancer. My book tells the story of the physical, psychological and spiritual processes I went through from the moment I responded to that fateful email to post surgery and recovery.

There are three parts to this book. The first part is the story of my journey to save a life. This is for potential donors to learn about what to expect if they were to donate their liver. I did not have someone who could tell me about the process and I felt lonely in my journey. It is my hope that this book could be a guide to others. I shared about the procedures I went through, my experiences and how I felt along the way.

The second part of the book contains frequently asked questions about organ donation and related information. It is also useful to groups who are organizing organ donation campaigns. The third is the MOST IMPORTANT part. It contains forms for you to pledge to donate your organs after death. I hope every reader will pick up a pen and sign the pledge form.

Hurdles in the Making of the Book
I would like to add on this part because “About the Author” (at the bottom of this post) and “About the Book” is only a person and a material. I would like to focus on the “ACTION” of people signing the pledge forms to donate their organs after death.

In fact, in the printing of the book, the most expensive part is Part 3 because it contains three colored postcard-sized papers that are perforated and because of the cards, the book has to be bound manually. However, looking at the objective of the book that is to inspire ACTION, the extra effort and the extra costs are well worth it. I sincerely hope the book will help increase the number of organ donation pledges.

For your information, my case of donation—living UNRELATED donor (meaning a living donor donating organs to unrelated person)—is not encouraged in Malaysia. I only knew about this AFTER the surgery. I am not sure if this is not encouraged around the globe or just Malaysia being conservative. Therefore, although the book may have the objective of encouraging pledges (not donating while still alive), the Ministry of Health will never help me promote the book as a tool to help increase pledges. For this, it is only on my OWN initiative that I promote it in order to promote organ donation or vice versa. And since this is the case, I will tirelessly go anywhere to speak about my journey and story in the hope that listeners will pledge immediately or at least nudge them to really give thoughts to organ donation.

About the Author
Hoong Ling is a Malaysian who has actively advocated organ donation since secondary school. She is a committee member of the Organ Donation Public Awareness Action Committee under the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

Hoong Ling is an active speaker at local talks, forums, seminars and international conferences. She was a TV Presenter on Selamat Pagi Malaysia (Good Morning Malaysia), she emcees professionally and has made appearances on RTM, TV3, NTV7, ASTRO, Bernama TV, BFM 89.9, Sin Chew Jit Poh, The Star, The Sun and magazines such as Malaysian Women’s Weekly, Feminine, Money Compass, Singapore Women’s Weekly and ICON. Her writing has been published in The Star, The Sun, Utusan Malaysia, Berita Harian, Money Compass and The Entrepreneur.

She was selected as a Youth Ambassador in 2003 and featured on Akhbar Mahasiswa while in college. She received the Selangor Youth Award 2006, Great Women of Our Time Award 2008 and Lions Clubs International District 308‐B1 District Governor’s Distinguished Service Award 2009.

This book marks another phase in her endeavor to persuade her fellow Malaysians, and humanity at large, that we may pass away but our body parts can continue to give life to others.

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To read Hoong Ling's story firsthand, please visit her blog at hoong ling de experience. She is also sharing with us a post in memory of An Qi, the girl who received the liver donation. I hope you will read it.

With deep appreciation to Hoong Ling for sharing her story with all of us.

I ordered Hoong Ling's book a few weeks ago before its release and I am waiting for it to arrive. Hoong Ling has mailed it to me on Wednesday this week but it was delivered to my former office address, so I would need to make arrangement to collect it. I DON'T KNOW BUT LET ME SAVE YOU will be available online from MPH very soon.

Updated on August 15, 2010: Read her story on The Star newspaper today.

Book Giveaway: TATTOO SHOP MYSTERIES Series by Karen E. Olson

2010-08-11T21:46:00.010+08:00

September is a GREAT month because Karen E. Olson, author of the Tattoo Shop Mysteries and the Annie Seymour Mysteries series, is launching her latest book Driven to Ink on the first week of the month! On top of that, I'm also celebrating my birthday... HURRAH!

The September baby is feeling generous and wants to give you a chance to win the fun and suspenseful books in the Tattoo Shop Mysteries series. There will be TWO winners. That means both of you will each win a set of the three books pictured above.

All you have to do is... leave me a comment in this post. It's so very easy.

Other important details:

The last day to participate is Tuesday, August 31 (11.59 PM, GMT +8:00).
Everybody in the world can participate. And no, you don't need to have a blog, but I do need your email address, so that I can let you know of the good news if you win.
The two winners will be drawn randomly and announced at midnight.
The brand new books will be ordered from Book Depository and mailed to you.

Good luck and happy participating, my friends!

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Oh, and before I go, you may want to check out the first chapter of the books so generously published by Karen on her website. Might as well have some fun while waiting for the winner announcement:

Books I Read in 2010: July (And a Book Giveaway Teaser)

2010-08-11T00:19:00.003+08:00

Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene
Driven to Ink by Karen E. Olson
140 Characters by Dom Sagolla

Total books for July 2010: 3
Total books for 2010: 36

ANNOUNCEMENT: I will be posting the review of Driven to Ink, which will be released in September. The post will be published at the end of this month when it's nearer to the book release date. Plus, my birthday is coming up in September so.... I'm also planning a Birthday Book Giveaway for all three of Karen's books in the A Tattoo Shop Mystery series (Pretty in Ink, Missing in Ink, and her latest Driven to Ink) to not one, but TWO, lucky winners. They will each get one set of the three books. Please watch out for the announcement tomorrow! I am feeling generous because Karen's book will be released in September and I am a September baby. HURRAH!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-08-09T22:20:00.005+08:00

I have been very sloppy in posting for the Simple Woman's Daybook and I apologize for that. I got carried away with work...

Outside my window... I see the parking lot, trees, cars, but that was in the morning.

I am listening to... my air-conditioning unit humming in the background.

I am thinking... of how to fit everything that I wanted to do into a day, or even an hour. I'm not talking about work, but all the books that I wanted to read but haven't, play with my new iPhone (bought it during the weekend), write and post outstanding book reviews on my blog, and a whole lot of other things. I should be thinking about sleep now that it's 10:30 p.m.

I am thankful for... my colleague Lynn today as she sent me home, and before that we had dinner together and went to the pasar malam (night market).

I am wearing... my jammies now and be getting ready to go bed after I finished this post.

I am going... lie down on my bed, stare at the ceiling, and listen to the A/C hum until I fall asleep.

I am currently reading... Behind You by Jacqueline Woodson. It's a sequel to the heart wrenching If You Come Softly. I cried until my eyes popped.

I am hoping... to do my best in catching up in my visits to all your blogs. You may have realized that I'd dropped by sporadically over the week or so.

One of my favorite things... Sharepoint. I get to tinker with the Microsoft business collaboration platform by developing and creating some work-related tools with it. I'm loving it!

Few plans for the rest of the week... Get more work done. Read one more book before the week ends. Review Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love, a book sent to me by the author, Nancy Dreyfus, Psy.D.

Have a great week ahead!

Girl, Interrupted

2010-08-02T21:07:00.010+08:00

Girl, Interrupted

By Susanna Kaysen
Publisher:Virago
Published: 2000
ISBN-13: 9781860497926
169 pages

Page 39, "Elementary Topography": Perhaps it's still unclear how I ended up in there. It must have been something more than a pimple. I didn't mention that I'd never seen that doctor before, that he decided to put me away after only fifteen minutes. Twenty, maybe. What about me was so deranged that in less than half an hour a doctor would pack me off to the nuthouse? He tricked me, thought: a couple of weeks. It was closer to two years. I was eighteen.

Girl Interrupted is a memoir that is all of these: Poignant. Funny. Optimistic. Fascinating. Stirring. It is heartbreaking and it is memorable. It drew me in immediately and got me hooked like drug. I have not watched the movie but I knew who the actors were. Reading through the book made me do a mental match of the stars with the characters. Angelina Jolie is Lisa. Winona Ryder is Susanna. And I was right. I love Jolie. I have a girl crush on her for the longest time.

In 1967, eighteen-year-old Susanna Kaysen was put into a taxi and sent to McLean Hospital to be treated for depression. There she met with the other girls in the psychiatric ward: Lisa is a sociopath, Polly set herself on fire, Daisy later committed suicide, Lisa Cody who was a newcomer was diagnosed as a sociopath much to Lisa's disdain because she was the only one before Lisa Cody came along, and Georgina was Susanna's roommate. Patient's notes with the some details blotted out to maintain privacy were included in the book, so that we could catch a glimpse of the author's condition. Profanity (mostly coming from Lisa) is also apparent in the book, but that is expected in a book of this nature.

Reading the following passages made me think. And subconsciously, there are truths in them. These are Susanna Kaysen's thoughts (p.124 and 125):

The question was, What could we do?

Could we get up every morning and take showers and put on clothes and go to work? Could we think straight? Could we not say crazy things when they occurred to us?

Some of us could, some of us couldn't. In the world's terms, though, all of us were tainted.

[...]

"You spent two years in a loony bin! Why in the world were you in there? I can't believe it!" Translation: If you're crazy, then I'm crazy, and I'm not, so the whole thing must have been a mistake.

"You spent nearly two years in a loony bin? What was wrong with you?" Translation: I need to know the particulars of craziness so I can assure myself that I'm not crazy.

"You spent nearly two years in a loony bin? Hmmm. When was that, exactly?" Translation: Are you still contagious? I stopped telling people. There was no advantage in telling people. [...]

Finally, I really like this: Sometimes the only way to stay sane is to go a little crazy. I love this book. I am glad I picked this up over the weekend when I was home on Saturday. What I would like to do next is to watch the movie.

Home and Happy

2010-07-31T21:01:00.014+08:00

I'm home for the weekend! I took a flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur and since the flight was delayed (you can always expect domestic flight delays with Air Asia—if it's not late, it's not Air Asia—and they "manage" your expectation really well in that aspect). I arrived home at about 3 a.m.

I had so much fun with my friends and family today. On a bright Saturday afternoon, I joined the Unsnob Wine gang for a Bubbling Dim Sum outing at Hong Kee Tim Sum restaurant in Damansara Jaya. I'll tell you more about this in the coming post!

Oh, did I tell you I came home to a FULL mailbox? I've got books delivered from Book Depository, my Moleskine Kindle Cover from Amazon.com, and some magazines I subscribed to. I am a happy, happy girl and as my friend aptly described, it's orgasmic. Haha! Here's a brief report of what I've got in the mailbox in Kuala Lumpur while I toiled away in Penang.

Arrival from Amazon.com: Moleskine Kindle Cover (Limited Edition) that comes with 2 Volant Notebooks.

Arrival from Book Depository:

Paco's Story
Close Quarters, both by Larry Heinemann
The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien

Bought at BORDERS, The Curve:

The Gift of Rain by Tan Twan Eng
The Search by Nora Roberts

I know I couldn't delay getting The Gift of Rain anymore because Wisteria dropped me a really sweet comment in my post Welcome to My New Apartment!:

Alice...Thanks for bringing us to visit your new apartment. I love it!! I am reading a book that takes place in Penang. I think of you so much as I read it. Have you heard of it, The Gift of Rain by Tan Twan Eng? I love his writing...absolutely beautiful. Here is what he says about the sea...

"Even when I was a child the sea whispered to me, whispered and spoke to me in a language I assumed only I understood. It embraced me in its warm currents; it dissolved my rage when I was angry at the world; it chased me as I ran along the shore, curled itself around my shins, tempting me to walk farther and farther out until I became a part of its unending vastness." page 26, The Gift of Rain, Tan Twan Eng

What do you think? Awesome right?

Awesome indeed, Wisteria! Thank you so much. I went to the Borders in Queensbay Mall, Penang, but unfortunately they couldn't find a copy in the store despite the system saying it's available. The staff was so good in calling me after they did find the copy, sent the book to The Curve so that I could pick it up there because I told them I'd be returning to KL for the weekend. Gotta love Borders!

And last but not least, here's the latest acquisition today at a book sale (Buy 5 Books, Get 1 Free) @ The Curve:

Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder
Schindler's List by Thomas Keneally
A Lion Called Christian by Anthony Bourke & John Rendall
What the Dog Saw by Malcolm Gladwell
Obama From Promise to Power by David Mendell
What Would Google Do? by Jeff Jarvis
The Starbucks Experience by Joseph A. Michelli
The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans
The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
Love in a Fallen City by Eileen Chang
Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Sundays at Tiffany's by James Patterson
Hitler's Private Library by Timothy W. Ryback
The Rape of Nanking by Iris Chang
The Gift by Cecelia Ahern
The Art of War by Sun Tzu
Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom
Stones into Schools by Greg Mortenson
The Famished Road by Ben Okri
Einstein by Walter Isaacson
Stern Men by Elizabeth Gilbert
3 issues of i-D magazines (I bought these at another book sale, also at The Curve)

Before the book shopping at The Curve, I had a wonderful time catching up with Anne, Mainey, and Irene at Starbucks. It was loads of fun buying books with the ladies. Thinking that I have to return to Penang tomorrow makes me sad. I'm going to miss them all so much!

Gambit

2010-07-23T00:02:00.000+08:00

Gambit

By Karna Small Bodman
Publisher:Forge
Published: 2008
ISBN-13: 9780765358868
367 pages

Three American planes have been shot out of the sky and the reason was unknown. Dr. Cameron Talbot, a world-famous expert in missile-defense systems, is ordered by the White House to develop a defense against the mystery weapon. I enjoyed Gambit and liked it, but I will not say I loved it. It is a political thriller with some romantic suspense thrown in, but in that respect, I found Suzanne Brockmann’s The Troubleshooters series to be a lot more engaging. The author, a former deputy press secretary and senior director of the National Security Council, has firsthand White House experience and it shows in her novel.

Note: This is a 100-word book review.

Wordless Wednesday: Loverboy Teddy Bear

2010-07-21T00:02:00.004+08:00

And this is where I came from. I found my new home and I ♥ Alice!
(I even have a tattoo to prove it!)

Welcome to My New Apartment!

2010-07-19T00:05:00.008+08:00

Hello, friends! Welcome to my new apartment in Penang! I'm settling in pretty nicely at the new place, both at home and at work. I know I'm still terribly behind in visiting most of you, but I'm trying my best. It's a slow, slow progress I'm making in trying to get back into the momentum of blogging and I hope to get things back to normal soon; I'm 90 percent there (I think).

As promised, this is a mini virtual tour of my humble 680 sq.ft. apartment. It's a small place but still very comfortable. My mom and sister Cat had done so much in helping me clean and arrange the place preliminarily (thank you, both!).

Once again, welcome to my apartment!

The sofa set belongs to the landlord. I'm glad that they are all dark brown in color (my favorite color!). The curtains were picked out by my mom and sister. I switched the light brown curtains provided by the landlord into my room. The red carpet is from IKEA and as you can see, books are everywhere in the house: on the coffee table and on the sofas!

My S$2 (~US$1.45) indoor slippers bought at Daiso, Plaza Singapura! I should have bought a few more pairs...

Bubba the brown bear and my "little son"

This is the ARC of the soon-to-be-released Driven to Ink by my favorite author and a good friend, Karen E. Olson. I've finished reading the novel and enjoyed it! Now I can't wait for the fourth book, Ink Flamingo...

She is so sweet to autograph it. Here's what she said: To Alice - Hope your move & new job go smoothly - and keep posting pictures! Best, Karen :)

Many thanks for the book and for autographing it, Karen! I just have to post this picture because it has her special message that is related to my move and new job in Penang. And you know what? I was totally surprised when John Valeri, another good friend and fellow blogger, told me to check the "Acknowledgments" section. I did, and my name was mentioned alongside a few other book bloggers such as Wendy, Christina, and Iliana! I am super excited! Again, thank you, Karen!

On the wall is a sketch done by a Chinese artist while I was vacationing in Sydney with my mom. Then, there's Charco the Dooodoll and rocking moo, both given by my former colleagues when I left my previous company. I miss them already!

My dining table that doubles as my working desk.

My two very handsome boys, Loverboy Teddy Bear and Combat Bear, on my queen-sized bed. I ♥ my boys!

Have a great week ahead!

The Versatile Blogger

2010-07-18T00:02:00.004+08:00

Thank you, Chase for giving me this award. I am happy to know some of the prolific book bloggers out there, and Chase is definitely one of them. Please check out his blog at The Bibliophile's Lounge.

For this award, I need to share 7 things about myself and pass this on to 15 blogs:

I have recently moved to Penang for my new job.
I take a 50-minute walk from my office to home every day after work. I love walking!
I love reading military books, particularly the U.S. Army.
I love blogging!
I love reading! (Gotta include this even though you've heard it umpteenth times)
I love my new job!
I LOVE ALL OF YOU!

As for passing it on, I would like to give it to ALL my blogger friends because ALL of you are versatile bloggers. My life is more colorful and joyful and interesting, thanks to all of you.

Dead Men's Dust

2010-07-16T00:02:00.000+08:00

Dead Men's Dust

By Matt Hilton
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
Published: 2009
ISBN-13: 9780340978238
438 pages

The first Joe Hunter thriller is a good read. Joe is a former Special Forces soldier who has worked 14 years as a counterterrorism agent. The book has the necessary ingredients that make a good thriller, but it did not excite me as much as Lee Child’s Jack Reacher. The plot is fast-moving. Joe is on the lookout for his missing brother and he does it to help his sister-in-law. In so doing he is up against “The Harvestman,” a crazy serial killer. I like Joe’s character and decided to read the second book, Judgment and Wrath, to see how the character will develop.

Related Post: Teaser Tuesday

Note: This is a 100-word book review.

Wordless Wednesday: I Love My Friends!

2010-07-14T00:02:00.000+08:00

Here are some of the snapshots of the outing I had with my former colleagues when I was back home last week. We had dinner at Sushi Zanmai and then dessert at I Love Yoo, all at Sunway Pyramid. I miss them already!

Over the Edge

2010-07-13T00:02:00.002+08:00

Over the Edge
(Book Three of the Troubleshooters Series)
By Suzanne Brockmann
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Published: 2001
ISBN-13: 9780804119702
395 pages

Chapter 1, Excerpt:

Lieutenant Commander Joel Hogan grabbed her ass.

Right in the McDonald's on base. Right in front of...

A roomful of people who weren't paying either of them the slightest bit of attention.

Lt. (jg) Teri Howe didn't know whether to be bitterly disappointed or intensely relieved. She took her tray and moved away from Joel, purposefully ignoring him. She headed swiftly to the other side of the room. Evade and conceal. Run and hide. Do not engage the enemy at this time. Don't create a scene.

Following book one and two of the Troubleshooters series, I knew I have to move on quickly to book three. The romantic suspense series features action-packed thrillers of a certain group of the elite U.S. Navy SEALs. The review of the third book, Over the Edge, is also long overdue one. It's also one that I have enjoyed very much; a page turner.

In this installment, the focus of the story is on Senior Chief Stan Wolchonok, and helicopter pilot in the naval reserves, Lieutenant Teri Howe. Stan is rock steady and to him no difficult challenges are unsolvable. Come to Stan and the problem WILL be solved. He takes Teri under his wings when he sees how she is being treated by her male counterparts. Teri shares her disturbing past with him and that makes him even more determined to protect her. Teri looks up to him and actually likes him. Stan admires her passion for flying and acknowledges that she is one of the best helo pilots around. Soon, as the back cover synopsis says, "the line between friends and lovers begins to blur..."

The action begins when a plane is hijacked and the daughter of an American senator is onboard. Once again, the FBI counterterrorist team and the Navy SEALs are called to work together. Once again, Sam Starrett (my favorite guy!) and Alyssa Locke are being assigned together. Both are secondary characters but interesting enough to lend excitement to the story. Sam leads the ops and his team is working around the clock. Meanwhile, Max Bhagat who is the FBI expert negotiator keeps the line of communication going with the terrorists in the hijacked plane. In captivity is a courageous young woman, Gina, who is taken hostage and mistaken by the terrorists as the senator's daughter. Gina leads them to think that she is the girl they want so that the other passengers are spared from being hurt or killed. Max cares deeply for Gina and ensures that he and his team are doing everything they can for her to stay and come out of it alive.

The verdict? I loved Over the Edge! Everything blends well in this story and I could not stop turning the pages. It is intense with lots of action going on. It is also emotionally charged. I urge you to browse through all the books in the Troubleshooters series.

Note: Over the Edge is a joint-reading with Julia who introduced the series to me. Julia: Thank you for reading this with me! I can see why you like Sam Starrett so much. I want to read the next book, Out of Control with you. We can begin anytime you are ready!

Related Posts:

Mailbox Monday

2010-07-12T00:02:00.001+08:00

I'm on time for this week's Mailbox Monday (HURRAH!) because this time, I scheduled the post. Mailbox Monday is a weekly meme hosted by Marcia at The Printed Page and it's one of my favorites. So here are the books I received in the mail two or three weeks ago before I left my previous company:

I received an ARC (Advance Reading Copy) of Karen E. Olson's latest novel in the A Tattoo Shop Mystery series, Driven to Ink. I am thrilled because I have been following the first two installments and want to know what the tattoo artist Brett Kavanaugh is up to now or has gotten herself into this time. I'm currently at Chapter 28 (page 136) of the book. Thanks for the book, Karen!

Driven to Ink by Karen E. Olson (ISBN: 9780451231574). Las Vegas is a rocking place where impersonators of the legendary Rat Pack--Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.--are alive and well and performing nightly at clubs all over town. Except they're not all. Alive, that is.

When Brett lends her car to Sylvia Coleman and Bernie Applebaum for a drive-through wedding, she's not expecting to get it back with a dead body in the trunk--much less one who looks like Dean Martin and sports a clip cord from a tattoo machine around his neck.

As for the newlyweds, they vanish before they can start their honeymoon, so Brett and Jeff, Sylvia's son, go undercover as bride and groom to sniff out the rat who seems to be targeting the impersonators. Whatever's going on, it's not amore...

I also received the following book from Dar of Peeking Between the Pages (thanks, Dar!). Don't forget to check out her review of the book.

Holly's Inbox by Holly Denham (ISBN: 9781402219030). It's Holly Denham's first day as a receptionist at a busy corporate bank, and frankly, it's obvious she can't quite keep up.

Take a peek at her email and you'll see why: what with her crazy friends, dysfunctional family, and gossipy co-workers, Holly's inbox is a daily source of drama. Laughter, friendship, and romantic interludes keep her going, until one day, Holly's secret past begins to catch up with her...

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And you know what? I also won a book (The Plan A Woman in a Plan B World by Debbie Taylor Williams) at Renee's blog! Thank you, Renee! As you can see, I am one happy girl.

The Defiant Hero

2010-07-11T15:29:00.012+08:00

The Defiant Hero
(Book Two of the Troubleshooters Series)
By Suzanne Brockmann
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Published: 2001
ISBN-13: 9780804119535
390 pages

Page 1, Excerpt:

Meg didn't understand at first.

The man was smiling, and his pleasant expression and tone of voice didn't match his words. "We've taken your daughter hostage."

She was in the parking garage beneath her condo, hauling a box of files from the back of her car, when he approached her. She wasn't even a hundred feet away from Ramon, the building's security guard.

The smiling man must've seen the confusion in her eyes, because he said it again. In a Kazbekistani dialect. "We have your daughter, and if you don't follow our orders, we'll kill her."

I read the first book of the Troubleshooters series in March this year and had totally enjoyed the experience. The Unsung Hero offers a great mix of intense adventure and love story involving a group of the elite U.S. Navy SEALs. The review of the second book, The Defiant Hero, is long overdue and I must admit I cannot remember the plot well, except for the fact that I have also enjoyed it very much.

In this installment, the focus of the story is on Navy SEAL Lieutenant, junior grade, John Nilsson, and translator, Meg Moore. John has not seen Meg in years but when she calls for him for help, all the memories of her being with him come flooding back. But what is shocking is that, she is not the victim, but rather, is the person holding a foreign ambassador hostage. What John does not know is that Meg is being threatened and put in a deadly situation. Her daughter and mother have been kidnapped by the Extremists and issued death threats. Meg has no choice but to meet with the demands of the terrorists, even if it means having to kill someone.

The only person Meg knows who could help her is John Nilsson, so she very cleverly puts in her demand to only want to deal with John and nobody else. That is how John is summoned by the FBI to negotiate the hostage situation. Things get very intense from here. John senses that something is amiss in the Meg-as-terrorist situation, but he still has his doubts. He is gambling with his career if he helps Meg to escape. Meg is very stubborn and John has to work very hard to breakthrough to her.

Having read The Warrior Elite (Kindle Edition) by Dick Couch, which gives a good account of "Hell Week" and the other phases of training in the making of a SEAL, I am able appreciate the story even more. The hardship John has to go through in the saga with Meg in the terrorist situation is reflected in this book.

I also admire the courage of Meg's mother while in captivity. She tells the story of the love of her love in her rescue involvement during World War II to her granddaughter. One of the terrorists who keeps watch of them is touched by the story and that somewhat "soften" him toward them. Also, the secondary character, Sam Starrett who is also a Navy SEAL, is growing on me. I cannot wait to read more about him and Alyssa Locke with whom he always have "issues". They both do not see eye to eye and tension is always in the air. But sparks are flying for sure. Just you wait and see.

The verdict? I loved The Defiant Hero! Suzanne Brockmann does such a good job weaving everything together, I do not feel like I am burdened with the multiple characters in the series. I urge you to browse through all the books in the Troubleshooters series.

Note: The Defiant Hero is a joint-reading with Julia who introduced the series to me. Julia: Once again, I’ve totally enjoyed the co-reading experience with you! Coming up next is the review of Over the Edge, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series with you.

Related Post: The Unsung Hero

Books I Read in 2010: June

2010-06-30T23:59:00.011+08:00

NOTE: This post has been accidentally over-written. Alice will fix it soon. Sorry!

Simple Woman's Daybook: The Delayed Post

2010-06-30T23:59:00.004+08:00

The Simple Woman's Daybook post was supposed to posted on Monday but I started work on that day and then I traveled to Singapore the next day and am still in Singapore until tomorrow, so it (the post) was delayed until now. With droopy eyes and a brain screaming for rest, I present you the following:

Outside my window... I see lots of windows of another building.

I am listening to... silence.

I am thinking... of sleep. And I shall go to bed after I'm done with this post.

I am thankful for... my new job and along with it a great boss, great colleagues and a great client. I had a great dinner tonight with all of them at Oosh at Dempsey, Singapore. (Notice all the "greats" above? Lovely bunch!)

I am wearing... a gray work shirt and a pair of black pants.

I am going... to "Dreamland" in a few minutes.

I am currently reading... Driven to Ink by Karen E. Olson. Thank you for sending me the book, Karen! I really appreciated it.

I am hoping... to catch up on sleep. My eyebags. Arrgghhh!

One of my favorite things... Loverboy Teddy Bear from Vermont.

Few plans for the rest of the week... Arrange the books I brought along to my new apartment following the move to Penang.

I haven't been visiting you but I promise you I'll be making my rounds soon. I have not forgotten about you!

Simple Woman's Daybook: The First Post

2010-06-23T13:49:00.002+08:00

I've been reading many Simple Woman's Daybook posts at Jen's and decided to do something like that as well. I will post every Monday but for this first one, I made an exception. I feel that doing this helps me enjoy or reflect on the present and plan for the week. I also hope that my book reviews and other bookish posts will resume as normal once I get settled in my new job.

Outside my window. . . I see a storm brewing with heavy, dark clouds passing through, and I hear the sound of strong wind.

I am listening to... the voices of my colleagues around me. I will only hear them until tomorrow before I bid them farewell because of my new job.

I am thinking... what books to take with me for my move to Penang.

I am thankful for... my family, especially my Mom and sister Catherine who have been so helpful with my move. My mom helped sewn table runners, pillow cases, and wall runners. She is also the go-to person when you're organizing a move. My sister drove to Penang from Kuala Lumpur and back, and all around Penang. The landlord in Penang and her friends were friendly and gracious. My final batches of books have arrived at the office today, just a day before I say goodbye tomorrow (my last day at the office). I'm also thankful for author Karen E. Olson's generosity in sending me her ARC of Driven to Ink—she has been sending me all the books in her Tattoo Shop Mystery series and I've enjoyed every one of them!

I am wearing... a maroon knitted top and a pair of black pants.

I am going... the airport after work today to pick up my sister who is returning from Sydney for a short trip before she heads to Singapore for work.

I am currently reading... Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene. It's a lovely book.

I am hoping... I would be able to cope with my new role and make many new friends in Penang.

One of my favorite things... the painting of a Chinese girl reading in her garden, done by my Mom.

Few plans for the rest of the week... continue to spruce up my new apartment. I also plan to finish reading Summer of My German Soldier.

I hope you have enjoyed reading the first installment of my Simple Woman's Daybook. Have a wonderful Wednesday, my friends!