This little survey was posted by Maggie of “From Cave Walls” if anyone would like to join in.

How often do you read?

I don’t read every day but I do read often. If I am on a reading jag I will read every day until I’ve finished a book at least but then I might take a break. Sometimes I take a break in the middle of a book too. It depends on what else is going on in my life.

Do you finish every book you start?

No. I finish most of them but I no longer feel I have to persevere with a book that I’m not enjoying.

If not, what causes you to stop reading a book?

I may stop reading if I don’t like the characters, if it is too hard to follow the story or sometimes just because I don’t like it. For example, I started reading “The Last Librarian” more than a year ago now. I read a good deal of it before taking a break. I found the story depressing to be honest and there was a lot more death than I had anticipated. I thought it would be a more uplifting story. I probably won’t ever go back to it.

What’s your definition of flowery language?

I had thought of it as being the style of writing favoured by novelists of past times but it seems that the modern definition is different.

Does flowery language discourage you from reading a book?

I do enjoy very descriptive writing. I always enjoyed reading Paul Theroux’s travel books because of his language as much as the content. However, language can also discourage me from reading. Dickens for example I find very hard work. I love “A Christmas Carol” and I’ve read “Oliver Twist” and “David Copperfield” but haven’t managed to finish any others.

How important is the first line of a book or story?

It’s not that important to me. I am willing to see how the story develops even if the first line is not that interesting.

Do you read reviews before choosing a book to read?

Sometimes I do, sometimes I’ll just read the synopsis and decide whether or not it appeals to me.

Do you read ebooks or are you strictly a physical book reader?

I do. I have a Kindle and find it very useful for reading in bed, or when I’m out and about if I have some time to kill. It’s a lot easier to transport a Kindle than a pile of books if you are going on a trip. I still love real books though. If it is a book with photos and illustrations I’d far rather see them on a page than a tiny screen.

What book are you reading right now (or the last book you read)?

I’m currently reading a book about Ted Bundy by Ann Rule on my Kindle. I’m also part of the way through “True Girt” a non fiction book about Australian History. I was enjoying it but decided to take a break to read some fiction.

Did you leave a review?

I do leave a star rating when I finish a book. Sometimes I will write a proper review on Goodreads if I really liked a book.