Another Japan reading poll

[kate_nepveu]

Here are the books that I am definitely taking to Japan:

• Scott Lynch, Red Seas Under Red Skies
• Kij Johnson, The Fox Woman and Fudoki
• R.H.P. Mason, A History of Japan
• Sei Shonagon, The Pillow Book

I am possibly bringing various John M. Ford books that I haven't read yet, in case that memorial panel actually happens—does anyone know if it's going to? If not, well, Ford is not my ideal vacation reading.

For the last half-dozen-ish slots, I find myself with a plethora of mass-market paperbacks, so, like everyone else: a poll!

Note: If a series is specified as "up to," include any comment on how many I should bring.

[Poll #1038918]

Comments

[kgbooklog.livejournal.com]

I just finished the Lynch, and it has the same strengths and flaws of the first one, plus two completely worthless cliffhangers (it's really hard to convince a reader that the protagonist's life is in danger when you have a contract for five more books).

Fudoki I really liked, even though I can't describe it in any way that would make it sound like something I'd like.

I liked the Lindskold series, even though the author forgets some details at times. But it's complete at six books instead of never ending.

I liked the Marks, and have the third one on my to-read pile. But the first two make a complete story arc by themselves.

I read the first Huff book and it was okay, but not as good as her urban fantasies.

I really like Wells, but suggest you find Death of the Necromancer first if you can, since that deals with the heroine's family. This trilogy does have good stopping points between books, so not having the others isn't too bad.

I read the Hambly after it was mentioned in the Fantasy of Manners discussions, and it was pretty good (haven't read anything else by that author). I did find myself caring less about the heroine than her sister.

Butcher is fun and fast-paced.

[kate_nepveu]

it's really hard to convince a reader that the protagonist's life is in danger when you have a contract for five more books

There is that, but somehow that doesn't much bother me.

Lindskold's Wolf series is complete at six? Maybe I should wait until the sixth is in pb/I can get it from the library, then. Thanks.

I've read _Death of the Necromancer_ and thought it was okay, not as vibrant as _Element of Fire_, but enough people have said nice things about this airships series that I picked up this one used.