Reading and Chemo Updates

My reading progress has been understandably slow this month, but it seems I've chosen the perfect books to hold my interest during the full course of cancer treatments.

Robin Hobb has created not one, but three related fantasy trilogies that are favorites of many folks at the Sffworld Forums and elsewhere. In spite of using familiar fantasy tropes such as the orphaned royal bastard who comes into personal power that can save the kingdom, Hobb's characters stand out as unique, fully-formed people with emotional depth, and the settings exude sensory richness. Women are included as leaders and warriors, and she shows a deep respect for the connectedness of humanity and the natural world.

Assassin's Apprentice begins the Farseer Trilogy, which tells the story of Fitz Chivalry, from boyhood to manhood.

Ship of Magic is the first in the Liveship Traders Trilogy. It's set in the same world, but is only tangentially related to Fitz's story. It's described on Amazon as a fantasy adventure with sea serpents, pirates, and all sorts of magic. The liveships have distinct personalities and partner with specific people, though these are trading ships and have full crews.

Fool's Errand begins the final Tawny Man Trilogy, returning to Fitz and The Fool fifteen years later.

I'm currently halfway through the second book of the first trilogy. I normally groan at trilogies, but I'm pleased to say that this one is written in a brisk, straightforward style that makes for easy, compelling reading. The first hints of the story behind the mysterious Fool has just opened up so many possible stories in this world, that I'm getting excited about the subsequent series too. Why did I wait so long to read this?!

Chemo. Tomorrow begins Round 4, my last AC round before I'm switched to Taxol. Today gets busy as I try to get a week's worth of errands and chores done, and handle ahead of time whatever might crop up next week. I talked to my acupuncturist about my last bad weekend experience, and we are hoping to treat it this time. Because they aren't open on weekends, I'll go for a Friday treatment, which will include "beads" that will remain on acupuncture sites for the next few days, providing me with acupressure treatment over the weekend. That, and remembering that it's only temporary, should help me get through those days with less discomfort.