Testing new feature

Okay, I am posting to test out the new integrated Amazon associates feature thing on Blogger. I don't know why, nobody has ever bought anything from my links. Let's try it with an image and text for MC Lars This Gigantic Robot Kills, because there's a poster of it hanging above my computer.

Okay, that worked. Now, Ill try it with just a link for Ficciones by Jorge Luis Borges, because that's the book I'm reading now. That seems to have worked, though it linked to a Spanish edition, because that came up first in the search.

Now, I'll try image only...for umm...uh...Siberian Husky, because my dog is looking at me. Well that got me something, not a dog since Amazon thankfully doesn't sell dogs.

The Gathering Storm

I wasn't quite sure what to expect from The Gathering Storm. I like the Wheel of Time series. I like Brandon Sanderson. However, I tend to be somewhat wary of these "posthumous collaborations," because usually they're only a step or two above fanfic (if that).

In the case of The Gathering Storm, mt worries were unfounded. This is a truly excellent continuation of the series. I think it's actually better than some of the middle of the series novels where Jordan let the plot lag a bit too much. The plot doesn't lag here, and Rand's character actually develops.

My only complaint, is a general complaint with the series: there are too damn many major characters. This means that many of the characters from the past who were interesting seem to either be given less time in the novel (Mat doesn't show up until halfway through) or disappear altogether (Elayne for instance doesn't get anything more than a few mentions). Even so, this is a good book.

The Warded Man

If you like reading fantasy, then you should pick up a copy of The Warded Man, by Peter V. Brett, when it comes out on March 10, 2009. I really think this is the best fantasy novel I've read since George R. R. Martin's A Game of Thrones.


The Warded Man has everything you need to make an excellent fantasy novel. It has strong characterization with interesting characters. It has an interesting plot. There's solid world building. Most of all, it's an original story.

It's the tale of a young man named Arlen, who witnesses the killing of his mother by demons. These demons arise every night and kill any human or animal they can find that isn't protected by magic wards. Arlen vows to find the ancient fighting wards that allowed men to fight the demons millennia ago.

Seriously, I liked this book. The sequel is definitely on my want list when it comes out.