Remember, I’m a late-comer to romance in all it’s genres and sub-genres. Before 2007, all I’d read were the Bronte sisters, Jane Austen and Louisa May Alcott - all of which I categorize in my mind under the term Classics.
Way back in 2003, Penguin (actually a sub-division of Penguin) published Sunshine, by Robin McKinley. I’d never heard of the book before it was recommended. But what an outstanding recommendation it’s turning out to be.
The book is a Can’t Put Down, a Want To Read It While I’m Driving And Grocery Shopping, kinda book.
The reasons - The author’s voice is unique, kind of stream of consciousness and addictive… hooks me in the same way Cormac McCarthy’s voice caught me and reeled me into All the Pretty Horses.
The story is beautifully opaque. By that I mean it’s not an easy read. There are no short cuts, there’s no way to skim this book. If you try, you’ll miss the rich narrative and you’ll only have a superficial understanding of the complex characters and the alterna-world Robin McKinley has created.
Reading Sunshine, I suddenly grokked the relatively recent explosion of vampire fiction. I don’t know what came before Sunshine… maybe there was something else. What I do know is that Sunshine, by Robin McKinley, is like the universe’s Big Bang. Everything expands from this book. In her words, I see the beginning and the evolution of the vampire revolution.
In other news - Dear sweet Tom Stronach, all the way over in Great Britain, read my book of poetry. He’s talking about it here.
And last but not least, Team Shane Forever.
Thanks for the recommended read.
Sorry about Shane Julia!! I read this book years ago when it came out. I honestly don’t remember what it was about. I may have not finished it! One book by Robin that I love - Beauty. I read that book a million times in junior high! It’s one of my favorite versions of Beauty and the Beast.
1. This book sounds incredible!
2. What a great review from Tom….I cannot wait to read your poetry.
3. Just call me The Walking Dead Nostradamus. I predicted the exploding volcano. But I am sad. And the ending of that episode was incredible! What an image! My mouth was hanging open. The writers aren’t getting everything right this season, but the endings are heart-stoppers. Whew!
Now I have to read this book!
XXOO Kat
Thanks for the recommendation. Hadn’t heard o this book but it sounds seminal. S
My condolences on Shane, Julia. Of course, we saw that coming. Have to write our own TV show, no other way about it. Maybe the guy who played Shane will come back as a hot vampire or werewolf?
re Sunshine, so glad you’re reading and enjoying. I doubt McKinley started the romantic vampire trend. She’s appalled by those who consider Constantine romantic. (you can read what I had to say about that here http://mustlovefiction.wordpress.com/2011/09/29/sunshine-by-robin-mckinley/) I bet Anne Rice was the original trouble maker, although her vampires were far more tragic and creepy than romantic.
For readers who get a taste of McKinley and would like more, my other favorite that I continue to reread is DEER SKIN.
Love Robin McKinley…Yes! Deer Skin!
I will have to check out Sunshine now! It sounds really great
Your book of poetry does also, I read the poem in the post below and I like it! I’ve never really read poetry before but I think I’ll give it a try. Now, off to read the review of your poetry book by Tom Stronach 
It’s a great read, Kayla. I’m really impressed. And thanks!
Yeah, Anny. I think she’ll be my new addiction.
Jaye, by God I’m going to write my own mature version! Poor Shane! Anne Rice was more horror for me. Angsty, yes, but she scared me! I plan to read the rest of her books.
It’s really good, Steph. You’d like it.
Go Kat! It is outstanding.
You called it, Penny… damn it! My poor Shane! Yes, the image was great but I have issues with the most recent episodes. Sacrificing Shane, and other characters, to build up Rick. Major fail for me.
Thanks re the poetry! (Tom is the best!)
Thanks Casey. I’m in mourning. I plan to read Robin’s entire backlist.
You’re welcome, Amber!
I’ve not heard about this book..Thank you for posting about it..I will have to look it up and get myself a copy..
I love book recommendations.
Me too, Ciara!
I’m loving this book, Savannah - can’t wait for yours!