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Merissa (12051 KP) rated Lucien (Fueled By Lust #4) in Books
Apr 7, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
I am absolutely loving the Fueled by Lust series by Celeste Prater. Before Lucien, I thought that Cato was my favourite. Everyone's best bad boy made me go all gooey inside. But along came the Emperor and changed all that.
Lucien has been an interesting character in the three previous books - a warm, caring father obviously still grieving for his lost wife. Well, with this being his book, we get more chances to see what makes him tick. He is simply wonderful. He has a sense of humour that had me chuckling as I read his witty comments. He cares about his guards and basically all the people of his land. Does this make him a sap? Not at all. Does this make him perfect? A big fat no! I have been chuntering "dumbass" to my Kindle more times reading Lucien than I have with the three previous books. He thinks he is doing the right thing but I just want to kick him.
Luckily, he has some good friends, including unexpected ones, to sort him out and then it's down to him to try and sort things out with Tana (which I won't go into detail with as you REALLY need to read this series for yourself!).
So many things to mention in this book but I will limit myself to a very short comment. Ulixes and Kallon!!!! Oh my!!!!
I'm thinking my house must be a tad dusty at the moment because my eyes have leaked on more than one occasion during the reading of this. I wasn't crying though, honest. It was dusty, yep, dust got in my eyes.
Lucien is sinfully sweet with smokin' hot scenes. Definitely the best Sci-Fi series I've read in a long time! And to answer the question at the end of the Synopsis - I definitely want one of these males!!! Love them
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
December 18, 2018
Lucien has been an interesting character in the three previous books - a warm, caring father obviously still grieving for his lost wife. Well, with this being his book, we get more chances to see what makes him tick. He is simply wonderful. He has a sense of humour that had me chuckling as I read his witty comments. He cares about his guards and basically all the people of his land. Does this make him a sap? Not at all. Does this make him perfect? A big fat no! I have been chuntering "dumbass" to my Kindle more times reading Lucien than I have with the three previous books. He thinks he is doing the right thing but I just want to kick him.
Luckily, he has some good friends, including unexpected ones, to sort him out and then it's down to him to try and sort things out with Tana (which I won't go into detail with as you REALLY need to read this series for yourself!).
So many things to mention in this book but I will limit myself to a very short comment. Ulixes and Kallon!!!! Oh my!!!!
I'm thinking my house must be a tad dusty at the moment because my eyes have leaked on more than one occasion during the reading of this. I wasn't crying though, honest. It was dusty, yep, dust got in my eyes.
Lucien is sinfully sweet with smokin' hot scenes. Definitely the best Sci-Fi series I've read in a long time! And to answer the question at the end of the Synopsis - I definitely want one of these males!!! Love them
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
December 18, 2018
Merissa (12051 KP) rated Maxim (Fueled By Lust #6) in Books
Apr 11, 2023
This is the sixth book in the series and by now, Maxim has established himself as the joker of the pack. He really should know, though, that this mating business isn't all about fun and laughter although this does indeed play a big part in Celeste's books. This book actually goes a fair way before Maxim makes an entrance but it is necessary to learn about Skylar, who she is, and how she thinks, but we don't learn all about her right then. We learn snippets along with Maxim as the story progresses. She's had it tough (understatement) but is still surviving. She is comfortable with who she is but is no wilting wallflower. She is feisty, with a wicked sense of humour and prepared to stand up for herself and those under her protection. Basically, a perfect match for Maxim!
This is a fast-paced book (or maybe it was the speed that I was reading as I simply could not put it down!) with an incredible storyline that involves spoilt, little rich men, psychic abilities, and even the gods. There is never a dull moment and plenty of laughter along the way.
I love the relationship that Maxim has with his brothers and this is evident in the book. The relationship between Maxim and Skylar is both fast and slow. The attraction is instant (as Maxim finds out in the airport) but the rest of it, with love and trust being the biggies, takes time to develop. I loved the explanation given by Skylar about insta-love!
This book has it all for me - action, adventure, a hot alpha male, a smart and feisty female, and sex that scorches the pages. The only trouble I have is leaving the Insedi behind. I feel the need to re-read every one of these books again and I don't say that about every book I read!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
December 19, 2018
This is a fast-paced book (or maybe it was the speed that I was reading as I simply could not put it down!) with an incredible storyline that involves spoilt, little rich men, psychic abilities, and even the gods. There is never a dull moment and plenty of laughter along the way.
I love the relationship that Maxim has with his brothers and this is evident in the book. The relationship between Maxim and Skylar is both fast and slow. The attraction is instant (as Maxim finds out in the airport) but the rest of it, with love and trust being the biggies, takes time to develop. I loved the explanation given by Skylar about insta-love!
This book has it all for me - action, adventure, a hot alpha male, a smart and feisty female, and sex that scorches the pages. The only trouble I have is leaving the Insedi behind. I feel the need to re-read every one of these books again and I don't say that about every book I read!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
December 19, 2018
Merissa (12051 KP) rated Altair (Fueled By Lust #11) in Books
Nov 21, 2023
Altair is the eleventh book in the Fueled by Lust series, and we meet up with Altair (plus two) as they seek to end a drug lord who has threatened their own. They are not the only ones after him though, and paths collide in a cellar. Makenna has her own reasons for wanting the drug lord dead, and she isn't happy with someone else showing up and possibly interfering with her mission. However, once she gets a glimpse of Altair, all bets are off. Not only do you get Altair and Makenna's story, but Elianna shows up too, AND we have Lucian and Maxim on hand as well.
Altair is a shorter book than I am used to in the FBL series, and I have to say, I miss the longer story. I understand why, but still, that's my opinion. There is one heck of a lot that goes on in this book, so hang on tight. Celeste Prater's writing is as smooth as ever, with plenty of steam to see you through, whilst losing nothing of the intricate storyline that holds the series together. Once again, Altair proves that the Insedi fall fast and hard, and it lasts. My man Cato makes a small appearance here, and I am pleased to say that he is still head over heels for Luna. #HappyReader!
This series is like a fine wine, it just gets better the longer it goes on. Okay, so that analogy may have fallen flat at the end, but I'm sure you understand what I'm saying! This IS a series though, so I would wholeheartedly recommend starting from the very beginning. Not only will you then understand the complete story, but you will also get the chance to meet the rest of the Insedi and fall in love with all of them. Hands off Cato though - he's mine đ
Absolutely recommended, and bring on the next one!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 13, 2018
Altair is a shorter book than I am used to in the FBL series, and I have to say, I miss the longer story. I understand why, but still, that's my opinion. There is one heck of a lot that goes on in this book, so hang on tight. Celeste Prater's writing is as smooth as ever, with plenty of steam to see you through, whilst losing nothing of the intricate storyline that holds the series together. Once again, Altair proves that the Insedi fall fast and hard, and it lasts. My man Cato makes a small appearance here, and I am pleased to say that he is still head over heels for Luna. #HappyReader!
This series is like a fine wine, it just gets better the longer it goes on. Okay, so that analogy may have fallen flat at the end, but I'm sure you understand what I'm saying! This IS a series though, so I would wholeheartedly recommend starting from the very beginning. Not only will you then understand the complete story, but you will also get the chance to meet the rest of the Insedi and fall in love with all of them. Hands off Cato though - he's mine đ
Absolutely recommended, and bring on the next one!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 13, 2018
LeftSideCut (3778 KP) rated Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2022) in Movies
Feb 23, 2022
The very concept of Leatherface not taking kindly to artisan bakeries and influencer inspired sushi bars is one that is absurdly tantalising, but it arrives at a point in this up-and-down franchise where no-one involved seems to be sure what they're trying to achieve.
Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a film that has been advertised as a true sequel to Tobe Hoopers groundbreaking original, ignoring all other sequels, prequels, and remakes that have come and gone over the years, similar to Halloween (2018) and Candyman (2021).
The main issue is then, of course, that it couldn't be further away from the original in terms of general tone if it tried. The claustrophobia, the implication of unspeakable violence that is never shown, the overall arthouse style, essential ingredients of '74, are nowhere to be found. Instead, we're presented with an unsubtle splatter flick that reeks of the unpleasantness of most mid-00s slashers. It's a far cry from what a lot of '74 fans love, but once this fact is accepted, there's a fair amount of fun to be found in what we've been given.
Let me be clear, I absolutely did not hate TCM. The writing is atrocious, the characters are almost exclusively unbearable, the return of the original films final girl is poorly handled and ultimately wasted, and it half arses attempts to tackle serious subjects such as gun violence and gentrification, but, some truly gorgeous cinematography, air tight pacing, and copious amounts of gore go someway in making up for its negatives.
Seriously, there is an ungodly amount of gore. As mentioned, it's light-years away from the originals subtlety, but I can respect it's ambition to go for the jugular. I mean, there is an actual, literal, chainsaw massacre, during a scene that made me say "Jesus Christ" out loud a couple of times.
Texas Chainsaw Massacre is far different to what I, and I imagine plenty of other '74 fans, expected and wanted, but at the end of the day, it's an easy to watch, super gory, and fun slasher that is what it is. Leave your thinking cap at the door, and I'm sure you'll find it entertaining at the very least, and remember, the original still exists!
Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a film that has been advertised as a true sequel to Tobe Hoopers groundbreaking original, ignoring all other sequels, prequels, and remakes that have come and gone over the years, similar to Halloween (2018) and Candyman (2021).
The main issue is then, of course, that it couldn't be further away from the original in terms of general tone if it tried. The claustrophobia, the implication of unspeakable violence that is never shown, the overall arthouse style, essential ingredients of '74, are nowhere to be found. Instead, we're presented with an unsubtle splatter flick that reeks of the unpleasantness of most mid-00s slashers. It's a far cry from what a lot of '74 fans love, but once this fact is accepted, there's a fair amount of fun to be found in what we've been given.
Let me be clear, I absolutely did not hate TCM. The writing is atrocious, the characters are almost exclusively unbearable, the return of the original films final girl is poorly handled and ultimately wasted, and it half arses attempts to tackle serious subjects such as gun violence and gentrification, but, some truly gorgeous cinematography, air tight pacing, and copious amounts of gore go someway in making up for its negatives.
Seriously, there is an ungodly amount of gore. As mentioned, it's light-years away from the originals subtlety, but I can respect it's ambition to go for the jugular. I mean, there is an actual, literal, chainsaw massacre, during a scene that made me say "Jesus Christ" out loud a couple of times.
Texas Chainsaw Massacre is far different to what I, and I imagine plenty of other '74 fans, expected and wanted, but at the end of the day, it's an easy to watch, super gory, and fun slasher that is what it is. Leave your thinking cap at the door, and I'm sure you'll find it entertaining at the very least, and remember, the original still exists!
Merissa (12051 KP) rated Elemental Claim (War of the Myth #1) in Books
Feb 27, 2018 (Updated Jul 3, 2023)
Elemental Claim (War of the Myth #1) by Miranda Grant
ELEMENTAL CLAIM is the first book in the War of the Myth series. It starts off action-packed and remains the same throughout. Told from multiple points of view, we gain insights into the human world, the gods, the WALL, elementarists, descendants, angels, hellhounds, you name it and it is probably in here. It starts with a case of mistaken identity, a 'Mission Gemini' if you will. Emma soon realises that she doesn't really know her sister that well after all. Still, her protective instincts as an older sibling remain in full force, so she will do all she can to save her - even if that means allowing Rogan and his friends to kidnap her.
As I said, this book is full of action and doesn't stop. Emma slowly grows into her powers, but there is definitely still room for more. There are other characters in here that I would love to know about. Xeno, for example. She is the angel only a few years from falling. Her health is failing, and her powers waning. And then suddenly, towards the end of the book, she starts healing. What?! I need to know more. What caused her health to degenerate in the first place, and why is she now healing? And will she and Hunter ever get together? Seriously, I need answers!
This was a well-written book, although there were a few spelling errors that jolted me when I read it. Nothing major, just examples like wanning instead of waning, or severe instead of sever. Certainly not enough to spoil the flow of the story, but enough for me to notice. On the whole, this was a brilliant book, with great world-building, and lots of characters to like, love, or loathe. Absolutely recommended by me, and I can't wait to continue with the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 27, 2018
As I said, this book is full of action and doesn't stop. Emma slowly grows into her powers, but there is definitely still room for more. There are other characters in here that I would love to know about. Xeno, for example. She is the angel only a few years from falling. Her health is failing, and her powers waning. And then suddenly, towards the end of the book, she starts healing. What?! I need to know more. What caused her health to degenerate in the first place, and why is she now healing? And will she and Hunter ever get together? Seriously, I need answers!
This was a well-written book, although there were a few spelling errors that jolted me when I read it. Nothing major, just examples like wanning instead of waning, or severe instead of sever. Certainly not enough to spoil the flow of the story, but enough for me to notice. On the whole, this was a brilliant book, with great world-building, and lots of characters to like, love, or loathe. Absolutely recommended by me, and I can't wait to continue with the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 27, 2018
Movie Metropolis (309 KP) rated The Greatest Showman (2017) in Movies
Jun 10, 2019
All the fun of the circus
Ah, the movie musical. Once the choice of matinee viewings and Saturday nights in front of the TV, theyâve evolved over the last decade into something completely mainstream. From the ridiculously good remake of Hairspray in 2007, to the vibrant Mamma Mia, which gets its very own sequel Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again this year, musicals have become the ultimate in escapism.
Following on from his exceptional role in the deeply depressing Les Miserables, everyoneâs favourite Australian actor, Hugh Jackman returns to the genre with The Greatest Showman. But is it worth you warming up your vocal chords for?
Inspired (very loosely may I add) by the imagination of P. T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman is an original musical that celebrates the birth of show business & tells of a visionary (Jackman) who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. The story is simple as we follow Barnum and his family as they rise from the depths of debt to the glitzy world of fame and fortune.
However, looking deeper, this rather poignant tale has special resonance today. In this ever-divided world, itâs message of acceptance and equality is something the majority of us still strive for. Whether it be for those who have suffered from homophobic, racial or any other abuse for simply being âdifferentâ, The Greatest Showman will take on a new, more emotional meaning.
One of the strongest parts of The Greatest Showman is its cast. Alongside Jackman, we have musical expert Zac Efron, Spider-Man: Homecomingâs Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson (Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation) and Michelle Williams (All the Money in the World). Every single one of them is outstanding, emoting beautifully over the course of the film but this very much Jackmanâs baby (it took nearly 7 years to get the idea to screen) and his performance is one of the best of his career.
Iâm going to dedicate this paragraph to Efron, as I feel heâs been given a bit of a rough ride by me and Movie Metropolis in general. With his recent roles in Dirty Grandpa and Baywatch, he was becoming better at taking his shirt off than acting in any great capacity, but he proves in The Greatest Showman that he still has that acting prowess that made him so popular with the High School Musical crowd.
Thankfully The Greatest Showman has some of the best pieces of music in the genre
Barnum is a complex character portrayed with a warmth by Jackman that many of his peers wouldâve struggled to emulate. Elsewhere, Keala Settle wows as bearded lady, Lettie. It appears her efforts here havenât gone unnoticed as her powerful ballad This is Me has been nominated for an Oscar at this yearâs awards â and itâs well-deserving of taking the crown. She is absolutely astounding.
The brings us nicely onto the songs. A musical, as its name suggests, lives or dies on the basis of its songs and score, and thankfully The Greatest Showman has some of the best pieces of music in the genre. There isnât a single dud in the track listing with Rewrite the Stars, performed by Zac Efron and Zendaya, and the aforementioned This is Me, sang by Keala Settle being highlights. Itâs fair to say that youâll be clapping and singing along in no time.
Pacing is also one of the filmâs strongest suits. Zipping along at only 105 minutes, The Greatest Showman doesnât mess about in throwing song after song at the audience and this is more than welcome. First-time director Michael Graceyâs shot choices are rudimentary but colour leaps off the screen throughout and the cinematography really benefits from his more static filming style.
Itâs testament to the talents of Hugh Jackman and this phenomenal cast that nearly two months after the filmâs theatrical release, people are still flocking to see The Greatest Showman in cinemas across the globe. And itâs easy to see why. From start to finish, it is an absolute joy to watch. With a cracking set of songs, created by La La Landâs Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and stunning performances by each member of the cast, itâs an absolute treat for the whole family to enjoy and my first five-star film of 2018.
https://moviemetropolis.net/2018/02/17/the-greatest-showman-review-all-the-fun-of-the-circus/
Following on from his exceptional role in the deeply depressing Les Miserables, everyoneâs favourite Australian actor, Hugh Jackman returns to the genre with The Greatest Showman. But is it worth you warming up your vocal chords for?
Inspired (very loosely may I add) by the imagination of P. T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman is an original musical that celebrates the birth of show business & tells of a visionary (Jackman) who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. The story is simple as we follow Barnum and his family as they rise from the depths of debt to the glitzy world of fame and fortune.
However, looking deeper, this rather poignant tale has special resonance today. In this ever-divided world, itâs message of acceptance and equality is something the majority of us still strive for. Whether it be for those who have suffered from homophobic, racial or any other abuse for simply being âdifferentâ, The Greatest Showman will take on a new, more emotional meaning.
One of the strongest parts of The Greatest Showman is its cast. Alongside Jackman, we have musical expert Zac Efron, Spider-Man: Homecomingâs Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson (Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation) and Michelle Williams (All the Money in the World). Every single one of them is outstanding, emoting beautifully over the course of the film but this very much Jackmanâs baby (it took nearly 7 years to get the idea to screen) and his performance is one of the best of his career.
Iâm going to dedicate this paragraph to Efron, as I feel heâs been given a bit of a rough ride by me and Movie Metropolis in general. With his recent roles in Dirty Grandpa and Baywatch, he was becoming better at taking his shirt off than acting in any great capacity, but he proves in The Greatest Showman that he still has that acting prowess that made him so popular with the High School Musical crowd.
Thankfully The Greatest Showman has some of the best pieces of music in the genre
Barnum is a complex character portrayed with a warmth by Jackman that many of his peers wouldâve struggled to emulate. Elsewhere, Keala Settle wows as bearded lady, Lettie. It appears her efforts here havenât gone unnoticed as her powerful ballad This is Me has been nominated for an Oscar at this yearâs awards â and itâs well-deserving of taking the crown. She is absolutely astounding.
The brings us nicely onto the songs. A musical, as its name suggests, lives or dies on the basis of its songs and score, and thankfully The Greatest Showman has some of the best pieces of music in the genre. There isnât a single dud in the track listing with Rewrite the Stars, performed by Zac Efron and Zendaya, and the aforementioned This is Me, sang by Keala Settle being highlights. Itâs fair to say that youâll be clapping and singing along in no time.
Pacing is also one of the filmâs strongest suits. Zipping along at only 105 minutes, The Greatest Showman doesnât mess about in throwing song after song at the audience and this is more than welcome. First-time director Michael Graceyâs shot choices are rudimentary but colour leaps off the screen throughout and the cinematography really benefits from his more static filming style.
Itâs testament to the talents of Hugh Jackman and this phenomenal cast that nearly two months after the filmâs theatrical release, people are still flocking to see The Greatest Showman in cinemas across the globe. And itâs easy to see why. From start to finish, it is an absolute joy to watch. With a cracking set of songs, created by La La Landâs Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and stunning performances by each member of the cast, itâs an absolute treat for the whole family to enjoy and my first five-star film of 2018.
https://moviemetropolis.net/2018/02/17/the-greatest-showman-review-all-the-fun-of-the-circus/
Lee (2222 KP) rated Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017) in Movies
Jan 3, 2018
Superbly acted, funny and emotional
Every so often I head into a movie knowing very little about it. I don't see the trailer, I don't read any detailed reviews. What I do see are a lot of positive headlines in my movie related news feeds and I decide to just go for it. Last year I did the exact same thing with 'Get Out', which turned out to be my favourite movie of 2017. This year, for my first cinema trip of 2018, it's the oddly titled 'Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri'. Not quite as wonderful as Get Out, but a very enjoyable movie all the same.
The three billboards in question lie, unused since the 80s, on a barely used road leading to the home of Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand). While driving past them one day, she stops to ponder for a while, before heading into town to the advertising company responsible for the boards and renting them out for a whole year. The message she spreads across the three boards is a simple one, set to shame the local police force who she feels have become a bit slack when it comes to investigating the brutal rape and murder of her daughter seven months earlier. Chief Willoughby (Woody Harrelson) is named on one of the boards, a respected man of the town, who we later discover is suffering from cancer. Officer Dixon (Sam Rockwell) on the other hand is a man with problems, totally inept at his job, living at home with his momma and recently in trouble for beating up a black suspect.
The billboards have the desired effect, bringing the murder case to everyones attention once again and causing uproar around town. But Mildred is a force to be reckoned with, foul mouthed and out for vengeance, and she's brilliant to watch. The movie effortlessly switches between laugh out loud sharp dialogue and gut wrenching emotional drama. Just when you think you've got the whole thing worked out, something major happens to shake things up again. It's a hugely enjoyable rollercoaster ride.
One of the few things I saw before seeing this movie said that if you like Fargo, then you'll enjoy this, and that's a pretty fair assumption. Interesting characters with interesting stories, beautifully told. I loved it.
The three billboards in question lie, unused since the 80s, on a barely used road leading to the home of Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand). While driving past them one day, she stops to ponder for a while, before heading into town to the advertising company responsible for the boards and renting them out for a whole year. The message she spreads across the three boards is a simple one, set to shame the local police force who she feels have become a bit slack when it comes to investigating the brutal rape and murder of her daughter seven months earlier. Chief Willoughby (Woody Harrelson) is named on one of the boards, a respected man of the town, who we later discover is suffering from cancer. Officer Dixon (Sam Rockwell) on the other hand is a man with problems, totally inept at his job, living at home with his momma and recently in trouble for beating up a black suspect.
The billboards have the desired effect, bringing the murder case to everyones attention once again and causing uproar around town. But Mildred is a force to be reckoned with, foul mouthed and out for vengeance, and she's brilliant to watch. The movie effortlessly switches between laugh out loud sharp dialogue and gut wrenching emotional drama. Just when you think you've got the whole thing worked out, something major happens to shake things up again. It's a hugely enjoyable rollercoaster ride.
One of the few things I saw before seeing this movie said that if you like Fargo, then you'll enjoy this, and that's a pretty fair assumption. Interesting characters with interesting stories, beautifully told. I loved it.
Purple Phoenix Games (2266 KP) rated Bohnanza in Tabletop Games
Jun 12, 2019
Bean farminâ. Donât get betterân that. Unless youâre corn farminâ. Anâ we should know. We are from the Quad Cities, the booger of the man made by Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana. Look here. Yes, we are surrounded by corn fields, but our home is not within a corn field. Actually, we live in a somewhat-midsize metropolitan area that boasts a population near 475,000. Iâm off track again, arenât I? Right. Bean farming. Lame theme, but Bohnanza shines in gameplay that just canât be beat. Right, Bryan?
Okay, so bean farming isnât for everyone. Itâs not for me, itâs probably not for you. And honestly, the theme in Bohnanza doesnât really come through all that strongly. But thatâs only part of the reason we game. Itâs also about the experience of gaming and the memories you make while playing. This game certainly delivers on those points. So many hilarious moments have been brought to us by Bohnanza. Bohnanza, the zany little card game about planting and trading beans.
I remember one time, when playing with family, there was a VERY heated back-and-forth bargaining that involved the lowly Chili Bean. Screaming. Throwing hands in the air. It was glorious. And the Chili Bean shall thenceforth be known as nothing other than the Chilla Bean.
So Iâm not going to bore you with the rules explanation, but I will tell you that some of the mechanics found in this little game can be found elsewhere in other games, but the combination of the mechanics coupled with the ridiculous theme elevates this game for many. It has set collection, hand management (NO shuffling your hand or even sorting â you keep those cards in the same order you received them, youngster!), trading, bluffing, take that. It has so much packed into this small box. So much ridiculousness. But itâs wonderful.
I have taught this to brand new gamers and those who are very inexperienced with modern board games. Itâs a smash with nearly everyone. I will be keeping my copy, even though my brother suggests pretty much ANY other game when we pull it out (as evidenced by his rating of 2 out of 6). We at Purple Phoenix Games give Bohnanza a 17 / 24.
https://purplephoenixgames.wordpress.com/2018/12/19/bohnanza-review/
Okay, so bean farming isnât for everyone. Itâs not for me, itâs probably not for you. And honestly, the theme in Bohnanza doesnât really come through all that strongly. But thatâs only part of the reason we game. Itâs also about the experience of gaming and the memories you make while playing. This game certainly delivers on those points. So many hilarious moments have been brought to us by Bohnanza. Bohnanza, the zany little card game about planting and trading beans.
I remember one time, when playing with family, there was a VERY heated back-and-forth bargaining that involved the lowly Chili Bean. Screaming. Throwing hands in the air. It was glorious. And the Chili Bean shall thenceforth be known as nothing other than the Chilla Bean.
So Iâm not going to bore you with the rules explanation, but I will tell you that some of the mechanics found in this little game can be found elsewhere in other games, but the combination of the mechanics coupled with the ridiculous theme elevates this game for many. It has set collection, hand management (NO shuffling your hand or even sorting â you keep those cards in the same order you received them, youngster!), trading, bluffing, take that. It has so much packed into this small box. So much ridiculousness. But itâs wonderful.
I have taught this to brand new gamers and those who are very inexperienced with modern board games. Itâs a smash with nearly everyone. I will be keeping my copy, even though my brother suggests pretty much ANY other game when we pull it out (as evidenced by his rating of 2 out of 6). We at Purple Phoenix Games give Bohnanza a 17 / 24.
https://purplephoenixgames.wordpress.com/2018/12/19/bohnanza-review/
Purple Phoenix Games (2266 KP) rated Roll Player in Tabletop Games
Jun 12, 2019
Are you up for some role play? If so, youâll have to find a different website for that. But if youâre up for some *roll* play, then youâve come to the right place! Welcome to Roll Player â a strategic game of dice rolling, card drafting, and character creation!
On your way into town, you bump into a mysterious stranger. He tells you that heâs on a quest and is looking for companions to share in the journey (and loot!). A sneaky rogue like yourself might just pick-pocket the man and be on your way. But as a warrior, maybe youâll go along for some action! What? Youâre a wizard? Thatâs ok! Every good adventuring party needs a character knowledgeable in the mystical arts! The point is, your character is what you make it, and that is exactly how Roll Player works â think RPG character creation, but game-ified!
You take turns rolling dice and drafting cards to hone up your skills and attributes â the player at the end of the game with the best adventurer (determined by Victory Points) is the winner! You start with a set race, class, and backstory that determine your end-game attribute goals, and any extra Victory Points are up to you! How will you manipulate your dice to achieve your goals? How can you draft the perfect skills to outperform your opponents? The possibilities are endless!
Having played Roll Player at least a dozen times, I can honestly tell you that I thoroughly enjoy it. Rolling dice and drafting cards seems simple enough, but the amount of strategy needed to try to meet all of your end-game goals is what makes Roll Player a fun challenge. This game requires more thought than others, but I donât think that necessarily makes it any harder to learn or play. Iâve found that once I help walk a new player through their first turn, the rest of the game is fine, and turns generally pass quickly enough too (as long as your opponent doesnât suffer from APâŚ) so that the game doesnât actually feel that long.
All in all, Roll Player does make you think, but itâs not such a heavy game that itâll feel super serious. Purple Phoenix Games gives it a 17 / 18 (Josh has yet to play it).
https://purplephoenixgames.wordpress.com/2018/12/03/roll-player-review/
On your way into town, you bump into a mysterious stranger. He tells you that heâs on a quest and is looking for companions to share in the journey (and loot!). A sneaky rogue like yourself might just pick-pocket the man and be on your way. But as a warrior, maybe youâll go along for some action! What? Youâre a wizard? Thatâs ok! Every good adventuring party needs a character knowledgeable in the mystical arts! The point is, your character is what you make it, and that is exactly how Roll Player works â think RPG character creation, but game-ified!
You take turns rolling dice and drafting cards to hone up your skills and attributes â the player at the end of the game with the best adventurer (determined by Victory Points) is the winner! You start with a set race, class, and backstory that determine your end-game attribute goals, and any extra Victory Points are up to you! How will you manipulate your dice to achieve your goals? How can you draft the perfect skills to outperform your opponents? The possibilities are endless!
Having played Roll Player at least a dozen times, I can honestly tell you that I thoroughly enjoy it. Rolling dice and drafting cards seems simple enough, but the amount of strategy needed to try to meet all of your end-game goals is what makes Roll Player a fun challenge. This game requires more thought than others, but I donât think that necessarily makes it any harder to learn or play. Iâve found that once I help walk a new player through their first turn, the rest of the game is fine, and turns generally pass quickly enough too (as long as your opponent doesnât suffer from APâŚ) so that the game doesnât actually feel that long.
All in all, Roll Player does make you think, but itâs not such a heavy game that itâll feel super serious. Purple Phoenix Games gives it a 17 / 18 (Josh has yet to play it).
https://purplephoenixgames.wordpress.com/2018/12/03/roll-player-review/
BeRad89 (48 KP) rated Sold on a Monday in Books
Mar 23, 2018 (Updated Mar 24, 2018)
Ellis Reed, a journalist, and Lilly Palmer, a editor's secretary, are brought into a whirlwind of decisions and consequences that all begin with a picture, two actually. The author, Kristina McMorris, sums it up best with her line in Sold on a Monday, â A ripple of consequences from the click of a shutter.â
I enjoyed finding out about the character through bits and pieces of truth and history scattered throughout the book. It helped the characters evolve and changed how you viewed them as the story progressed. A character that once seemed up tight and snooty was transformed into a loving and caring individual through the glimpses we got of their true character. They were slowly revealed like a flower opening its petals. I liked that the story was told from two different points of view. It helped add a little depth to an otherwise flat book.
Other than a few key points, Part One of Sold on a Monday was unnecessary and tedious. I didn't get excited over being approved to review this book only to have thirty five percent of it to be about a typical journalist who abandons his principles to get âbig scoopsâ. I struggled to get through this part of the book. It didn't make me want to come back for more. I wish this part had been parred down and more interesting area of the book further developed. I was disappointed in the lack of historical context. I was looking forward to getting better insight into people living during the Great Depression; however, the way this story was written, it could have taken place during any time period. Mostly, I was disappointed in how predictable the whole story ended up being. Other than a sad few flashes of excitement, it was flat.
Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris is a work of historical fiction. While she develops her characters well, her story itself is either utterly bland or utterly ridiculous. Sold on a Monday will be published August 28, 2018 by SOURCEBOOKS Landmark.
Overall, I gave this book 2 out of 5 stars. It was an okay read. All of Part One was average, but a typical reader will probably like this book. It isn't earth shattering or extraordinary. However, it is a quick and easy read after slogging through the first part. I was slightly disappointed.
I enjoyed finding out about the character through bits and pieces of truth and history scattered throughout the book. It helped the characters evolve and changed how you viewed them as the story progressed. A character that once seemed up tight and snooty was transformed into a loving and caring individual through the glimpses we got of their true character. They were slowly revealed like a flower opening its petals. I liked that the story was told from two different points of view. It helped add a little depth to an otherwise flat book.
Other than a few key points, Part One of Sold on a Monday was unnecessary and tedious. I didn't get excited over being approved to review this book only to have thirty five percent of it to be about a typical journalist who abandons his principles to get âbig scoopsâ. I struggled to get through this part of the book. It didn't make me want to come back for more. I wish this part had been parred down and more interesting area of the book further developed. I was disappointed in the lack of historical context. I was looking forward to getting better insight into people living during the Great Depression; however, the way this story was written, it could have taken place during any time period. Mostly, I was disappointed in how predictable the whole story ended up being. Other than a sad few flashes of excitement, it was flat.
Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris is a work of historical fiction. While she develops her characters well, her story itself is either utterly bland or utterly ridiculous. Sold on a Monday will be published August 28, 2018 by SOURCEBOOKS Landmark.
Overall, I gave this book 2 out of 5 stars. It was an okay read. All of Part One was average, but a typical reader will probably like this book. It isn't earth shattering or extraordinary. However, it is a quick and easy read after slogging through the first part. I was slightly disappointed.