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Erika (17788 KP) rated Avengers: Infinity War (2018) in Movies
Apr 27, 2018 (Updated Apr 28, 2018)
Predictable (1 more)
Some shoddy SFX
Contains spoilers, click to show
So, it's finally here, Happy Infinity War day!
Now, I'm even going to enter down. Seriously, don't read any further if you want the movie unspoiled.
Yes, I'm calling the film predictable, because it was. It's not necessarily a bad thing, there just wasn't anything that honestly surprised me.
For one, I completely guessed the first two people to bite the dust, based solely on the end credit scene in Ragnarok. Heimdall dies first, but not before conveniently getting Hulk out of there.
Loki dies next, but not before you think they're completely going to reverse the story arc from Ragnarok. Whew, but they didn't. Hiddles did a really fantastic job in the whole 5-10 min he was in the film.
Thanos looked pretty good, they seemed to have fixed the color on him from the whack neon purple in that first trailer. His minions were a bit weak, and overall I don't even know what their names were, however, I don't think I was supposed to care.
I think the Guardians of the Galaxy were given way too much screentime. I'm so over them. I also got a Gamora backstory that I didn't want nor need. I'm hoping she's one of the for sure dead.
I was so happy they finally addressed Red Skull, of course he was alive! My only question is, yall couldn't shell out enough money to get Hugo Weaving back in the makeup? Come on Disney.
The only characters I for sure believe are dead and gone, are Vision, Loki, and Heimdall. Gamora is up for debate. Everyone else...come on, it's a comic book movie. I do wish they'd have had the balls to let Tony Stark die.
So, at the end, we're left with the OG Avengers. Hawkeye and Ant Man are with their fams, and Thanos got what he wanted. There's also the Captain Marvel paging scene after the credits. Of course it needed to be in there.
ALSO, set up for Venom?? That was such a good idea! At least, I believe it was supposed to be a set up...
Ah right, the shoddy SFX... there are a few scenes towards the end, especially with Thor that looked so cheap. It was strange.
Anyway, I can't give it a 10 because of those shoddy graphics, and there was too much GotG.
Now, I'm even going to enter down. Seriously, don't read any further if you want the movie unspoiled.
Yes, I'm calling the film predictable, because it was. It's not necessarily a bad thing, there just wasn't anything that honestly surprised me.
For one, I completely guessed the first two people to bite the dust, based solely on the end credit scene in Ragnarok. Heimdall dies first, but not before conveniently getting Hulk out of there.
Loki dies next, but not before you think they're completely going to reverse the story arc from Ragnarok. Whew, but they didn't. Hiddles did a really fantastic job in the whole 5-10 min he was in the film.
Thanos looked pretty good, they seemed to have fixed the color on him from the whack neon purple in that first trailer. His minions were a bit weak, and overall I don't even know what their names were, however, I don't think I was supposed to care.
I think the Guardians of the Galaxy were given way too much screentime. I'm so over them. I also got a Gamora backstory that I didn't want nor need. I'm hoping she's one of the for sure dead.
I was so happy they finally addressed Red Skull, of course he was alive! My only question is, yall couldn't shell out enough money to get Hugo Weaving back in the makeup? Come on Disney.
The only characters I for sure believe are dead and gone, are Vision, Loki, and Heimdall. Gamora is up for debate. Everyone else...come on, it's a comic book movie. I do wish they'd have had the balls to let Tony Stark die.
So, at the end, we're left with the OG Avengers. Hawkeye and Ant Man are with their fams, and Thanos got what he wanted. There's also the Captain Marvel paging scene after the credits. Of course it needed to be in there.
ALSO, set up for Venom?? That was such a good idea! At least, I believe it was supposed to be a set up...
Ah right, the shoddy SFX... there are a few scenes towards the end, especially with Thor that looked so cheap. It was strange.
Anyway, I can't give it a 10 because of those shoddy graphics, and there was too much GotG.
Debbiereadsbook (1197 KP) rated Cutting Cords (Kiss of Leather #6) in Books
May 3, 2018
love this one!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Book 6 in the series, and blah blah blah, READ the others first! Cos I SAID so!!
I don't recall if we met Liam in previous, or he was just mentioned as a friend of the other subs, but we certainly don't meet Master Neal til this book.
Liam is traumatized by the death of his previous Master, and is skittish, and very socially awkward. Watching Master Neal doing a flogging at Kiss Of leather as part of his being accepted into the club, Liam is all kinds of torn up. For his love for Master Mark, but his need to move on. Being introduced to the painfully shy Liam, Master Neal's protectiveness goes into overdrive. He never wanted anyone like he wants Liam, and if he can be who and what Liam wants and needs, he will bide his time, treat Liam with the kid gloves he needs.
I said in my review of Gaining trust that I thought Master Jordan was my most favourite, but now I have a dilemma! Because I LOVED Master Neal! And Liam, so painfully socially awkward! oh! Loved them both!
Master Neal never wanted to do the TPE thing, but for Liam, he might just be able to do it. Liam needs that, and Master Neal needs Liam. He just didn't know he did, til he met Liam.
I can't express how much Liam's story affected me, he had a painful upbringing and then meeting Master Mark, a much MUCH older guy, he was very sheltered. Watching him come out of himself, and become the young man who helps Master Neal at his tattoo and piercing shop was great fun. Master Neal is very playful with Liam, and while Liam needs the TPE, he also learns there are other things he needs.
While the on going story arc is somewhat finished, it goes into different, more deadly direction. Spoilers I ain't giving!
We are introduced to Tobey and Master Hunter, and also a couple of very interesting characters at Master Neal's tattoo shop! A story for Ray and Cruella would make a very welcome addition to this series!!
5 full stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Book 6 in the series, and blah blah blah, READ the others first! Cos I SAID so!!
I don't recall if we met Liam in previous, or he was just mentioned as a friend of the other subs, but we certainly don't meet Master Neal til this book.
Liam is traumatized by the death of his previous Master, and is skittish, and very socially awkward. Watching Master Neal doing a flogging at Kiss Of leather as part of his being accepted into the club, Liam is all kinds of torn up. For his love for Master Mark, but his need to move on. Being introduced to the painfully shy Liam, Master Neal's protectiveness goes into overdrive. He never wanted anyone like he wants Liam, and if he can be who and what Liam wants and needs, he will bide his time, treat Liam with the kid gloves he needs.
I said in my review of Gaining trust that I thought Master Jordan was my most favourite, but now I have a dilemma! Because I LOVED Master Neal! And Liam, so painfully socially awkward! oh! Loved them both!
Master Neal never wanted to do the TPE thing, but for Liam, he might just be able to do it. Liam needs that, and Master Neal needs Liam. He just didn't know he did, til he met Liam.
I can't express how much Liam's story affected me, he had a painful upbringing and then meeting Master Mark, a much MUCH older guy, he was very sheltered. Watching him come out of himself, and become the young man who helps Master Neal at his tattoo and piercing shop was great fun. Master Neal is very playful with Liam, and while Liam needs the TPE, he also learns there are other things he needs.
While the on going story arc is somewhat finished, it goes into different, more deadly direction. Spoilers I ain't giving!
We are introduced to Tobey and Master Hunter, and also a couple of very interesting characters at Master Neal's tattoo shop! A story for Ray and Cruella would make a very welcome addition to this series!!
5 full stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Midge (525 KP) rated House of Beauty in Books
Feb 14, 2019
Very Original Crime Novel
I enjoyed reading HOUSE OF BEAUTY, although, I think it’s fair to say, not as much as I hoped to.
I was lured by the premise of a crime novel centring around a beauty salon, featuring the murder of a schoolgirl, concealed by corrupt officials involved in massive healthcare fraud, all happening in Bogota in Columbia. It sounded like a brilliant idea for a novel! I was also drawn by the notion of a beauty salon as a safe place to go, where women can discuss their innermost secrets with each other with no male intrusion.
HOUSE OF BEAUTY was an interesting read which brought a reality that touches on current and pertinent social aspects in Columbia.
I did not enjoy this novel as much as I might have, as some of my enjoyment was lost in the translation. Putting the issue of translation difficulties aside, I found there to be some confusing elements in this novel and not enough detail about the motive for the murder and the ensuing investigation. The detail of the murder itself is very specifically explained which I liked. The book is told from the perspective of two women, after the murder of Sabrina Guzman has already taken place. Claire, a customer at the salon and ghostwriter Lucia, are both middle-class Columbians. However, there’s nothing to make their respective points of view distinctive, so I was frequently puzzled as to which one of them was currently speaking. There are also third-person chapters from the perspective of Karen, a beautician at the salon; from Sabrina Guzman, the girl who dies; and from Sabrina’s mother, Consuelo.
I was fully involved in the story and was keen to know how Karen dealt with all of her difficulties she had with her life, however, I felt that I didn’t really understand the precise reason for the crime being committed. The conclusion, although it had some interesting twists, did not bring everything totally together for me, but maybe that was the author’s intention. It definitely left some room for further thought even after I had finished reading.
All in all, I would recommend Melba Escobar’s HOUSE OF BEAUTY for its originality.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was lured by the premise of a crime novel centring around a beauty salon, featuring the murder of a schoolgirl, concealed by corrupt officials involved in massive healthcare fraud, all happening in Bogota in Columbia. It sounded like a brilliant idea for a novel! I was also drawn by the notion of a beauty salon as a safe place to go, where women can discuss their innermost secrets with each other with no male intrusion.
HOUSE OF BEAUTY was an interesting read which brought a reality that touches on current and pertinent social aspects in Columbia.
I did not enjoy this novel as much as I might have, as some of my enjoyment was lost in the translation. Putting the issue of translation difficulties aside, I found there to be some confusing elements in this novel and not enough detail about the motive for the murder and the ensuing investigation. The detail of the murder itself is very specifically explained which I liked. The book is told from the perspective of two women, after the murder of Sabrina Guzman has already taken place. Claire, a customer at the salon and ghostwriter Lucia, are both middle-class Columbians. However, there’s nothing to make their respective points of view distinctive, so I was frequently puzzled as to which one of them was currently speaking. There are also third-person chapters from the perspective of Karen, a beautician at the salon; from Sabrina Guzman, the girl who dies; and from Sabrina’s mother, Consuelo.
I was fully involved in the story and was keen to know how Karen dealt with all of her difficulties she had with her life, however, I felt that I didn’t really understand the precise reason for the crime being committed. The conclusion, although it had some interesting twists, did not bring everything totally together for me, but maybe that was the author’s intention. It definitely left some room for further thought even after I had finished reading.
All in all, I would recommend Melba Escobar’s HOUSE OF BEAUTY for its originality.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Outside In (Insider, #2) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
***Possible spoiler alert concerning <b>Inside Out</b>***
<b>2.5 stars</b>
A rather disappointing end to the duet after the very enjoyable first book, [b:Inside Out|7059135|Inside Out (Insider, #1)|Maria V. Snyder|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327883282s/7059135.jpg|6662880]. Suffering from too many subplots that connected to the central story, the book just had too much going on. Each subplot that popped up was quickly taken care of in order to move on to the next scene and felt like the author was going down a checklist, "Okay, that's done, on to the next." It just wasn't very smooth at all. Most of the action was indicative of Chicken-with-its-head-cut-off Syndrome (yes, I did just make that up), so there was way too much confusion and running around, and I wanted it to slow. The. Heck. Down. This lead to my confusion of what in the world was going on, because I couldn't visualize much at all. The more hectic the story became, the more sketchy the details were. Not a good thing to do as an author. Since there was a lot more action than interaction this installment, the characters suffered and I found I didn't care for anyone at all or what happened to them, even Trella. While this book started off well enough, it quickly became more of a chore than a joy to read, and unfortunately, there was more tell than show in the writing. A very weak ending to what was a fun and exciting story arc. As I'm sure there isn't going to be another book in this series, there are many questions left dangling that should have been answered. Like who are the "Insiders" really, where are they from, what are they, who are the "Outsiders," etc., etc. I wasted time reading two books and am left without a real ending explaining most everything, if not all. One of the worst aspects about this sequel was the missed potential. It was already there but it was left ignored. The author would have done better to have created a slow, tension-filled build-up than the fast-paced mess of running around here, there, and everywhere, that ultimately was a big let-down and a disservice to the plot and characters.
<b>2.5 stars</b>
A rather disappointing end to the duet after the very enjoyable first book, [b:Inside Out|7059135|Inside Out (Insider, #1)|Maria V. Snyder|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327883282s/7059135.jpg|6662880]. Suffering from too many subplots that connected to the central story, the book just had too much going on. Each subplot that popped up was quickly taken care of in order to move on to the next scene and felt like the author was going down a checklist, "Okay, that's done, on to the next." It just wasn't very smooth at all. Most of the action was indicative of Chicken-with-its-head-cut-off Syndrome (yes, I did just make that up), so there was way too much confusion and running around, and I wanted it to slow. The. Heck. Down. This lead to my confusion of what in the world was going on, because I couldn't visualize much at all. The more hectic the story became, the more sketchy the details were. Not a good thing to do as an author. Since there was a lot more action than interaction this installment, the characters suffered and I found I didn't care for anyone at all or what happened to them, even Trella. While this book started off well enough, it quickly became more of a chore than a joy to read, and unfortunately, there was more tell than show in the writing. A very weak ending to what was a fun and exciting story arc. As I'm sure there isn't going to be another book in this series, there are many questions left dangling that should have been answered. Like who are the "Insiders" really, where are they from, what are they, who are the "Outsiders," etc., etc. I wasted time reading two books and am left without a real ending explaining most everything, if not all. One of the worst aspects about this sequel was the missed potential. It was already there but it was left ignored. The author would have done better to have created a slow, tension-filled build-up than the fast-paced mess of running around here, there, and everywhere, that ultimately was a big let-down and a disservice to the plot and characters.
Solomon Wendt (30 KP) rated Ready Player One (2018) in Movies
May 5, 2019
Nostalgia (1 more)
Video Games
This movie is based off of the book of the same name and matches it for most of the major plot points. In short, the story follows Wade Wilson, an egg hunter (Gunter for short), on the search for a virtual Easter egg that unlock control over the virtual reality known as The Oasis. In a scavenger hunt fashion, there are clues and trials that Wade must figure out and overcome in his attempt at such a coveted prize.
The film follows the major points of the book, but does change the clues and trials so its not the same exact story, which I feel is the purpose of film adaptations. However, as with many sci-fi films, majority of interest here is of the world that is constructed which is quickly glossed over. To be fair, how much more do we really need to than people are addicted to virtual reality and want to have more power in it? But the issue is the sort of background that is left out that can leave the soley film consumers a bit confused or leave more questions. As for the actual content of the film, it is a real nostalgia trip for those who enjoyed 80's pop culture and tries to include more recent fandoms such as Overwatch and Halo. Sadly, the viewer doesn't really take part in the treasure hunt as mystery and adventure films try to do. The clues are obscure and related to the creator of the hunt, so there isn't much guessing at what a clue means until it is flat out explained.
However, with the audience participation aside, it is a good sci-fi adventure that utilizes a good blend of motion capture technology and cgi work. It explore a good variety of worlds, environments, and character models that make this film noteworthy of that aspect of production. It leaves quite the impression and I know I looked up how much virtual reality cost after I was done.
In short, it was a good overall production in terms of tools utilized, but lacked a little bit of story in an attempt to cram a different world and rule set while trying to make a complete adventure and story arc. I recommend viewing it at least once, but doesn't really need to be viewed more than that.
The film follows the major points of the book, but does change the clues and trials so its not the same exact story, which I feel is the purpose of film adaptations. However, as with many sci-fi films, majority of interest here is of the world that is constructed which is quickly glossed over. To be fair, how much more do we really need to than people are addicted to virtual reality and want to have more power in it? But the issue is the sort of background that is left out that can leave the soley film consumers a bit confused or leave more questions. As for the actual content of the film, it is a real nostalgia trip for those who enjoyed 80's pop culture and tries to include more recent fandoms such as Overwatch and Halo. Sadly, the viewer doesn't really take part in the treasure hunt as mystery and adventure films try to do. The clues are obscure and related to the creator of the hunt, so there isn't much guessing at what a clue means until it is flat out explained.
However, with the audience participation aside, it is a good sci-fi adventure that utilizes a good blend of motion capture technology and cgi work. It explore a good variety of worlds, environments, and character models that make this film noteworthy of that aspect of production. It leaves quite the impression and I know I looked up how much virtual reality cost after I was done.
In short, it was a good overall production in terms of tools utilized, but lacked a little bit of story in an attempt to cram a different world and rule set while trying to make a complete adventure and story arc. I recommend viewing it at least once, but doesn't really need to be viewed more than that.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated The Dare (Detective Natalie Ward #3) in Books
May 22, 2019
When thirteen-year-old Savannah Hopkins doesnt come straight home from school, as she always does, her mother Jane immediately raises the alarm.
Leading the investigation is Detective Natalie Ward whose daughter Leigh is the same age as Savannah. Soon Natalies worst fears are confirmed when the teenagers broken body is found in nearby shrubland.
Evidence points towards a local recluse, but just as the net is closing around him, one of Savannahs friends, Harriet, is reported missing.
As Natalie delves into the lives of both girls, she soon discovers a sinister video on their phones, daring the girls to disappear from their families for 48 hours.
But Natalie isnt quick enough for this killer, and she is devastated to find Harriets body on a fly tip a day later.
Caught up in the case, she takes her eye off her own daughter and when Leigh goes missing after school she knows she must be in terrible danger. The clock is ticking for Natalie. Can she catch this killer before her little girl becomes the next victim?
This is the third book in Carol Wyers British 'Detective Natalie Ward' series.
The Dare opens with the disappearance of thirteen year-old Savannah Hopkins. She recently moved to this new town with her mother Jane. Savannah simply doesnt return home after school one day. The next day her body is found, and the thriller is off and running. Other seemingly random teen-aged girls disappear after Savannah. Detective Ward and her team is frustratingly one step behind the killer as the body count increases. But its certainly not for lack of trying on their part.
The plot, as always, was plausible, as we dont always know what our children are doing when not at home. We dont know what they are doing on their mobile devices, or who their friends are. It is a scary time for parents. Carol Wyer incorporated those fears into this book, and she did a great job!
I liked the additional perspective of the killer occasionally being thrown in. Definitely made it interesting to know his thoughts.
I highly recommend this book, I can't wait for book 4..
Thank-You to NetGalley; the publisher, Bookouture; and the author, Carol Wyer; for providing a free e-ARC copy of this book.
Leading the investigation is Detective Natalie Ward whose daughter Leigh is the same age as Savannah. Soon Natalies worst fears are confirmed when the teenagers broken body is found in nearby shrubland.
Evidence points towards a local recluse, but just as the net is closing around him, one of Savannahs friends, Harriet, is reported missing.
As Natalie delves into the lives of both girls, she soon discovers a sinister video on their phones, daring the girls to disappear from their families for 48 hours.
But Natalie isnt quick enough for this killer, and she is devastated to find Harriets body on a fly tip a day later.
Caught up in the case, she takes her eye off her own daughter and when Leigh goes missing after school she knows she must be in terrible danger. The clock is ticking for Natalie. Can she catch this killer before her little girl becomes the next victim?
This is the third book in Carol Wyers British 'Detective Natalie Ward' series.
The Dare opens with the disappearance of thirteen year-old Savannah Hopkins. She recently moved to this new town with her mother Jane. Savannah simply doesnt return home after school one day. The next day her body is found, and the thriller is off and running. Other seemingly random teen-aged girls disappear after Savannah. Detective Ward and her team is frustratingly one step behind the killer as the body count increases. But its certainly not for lack of trying on their part.
The plot, as always, was plausible, as we dont always know what our children are doing when not at home. We dont know what they are doing on their mobile devices, or who their friends are. It is a scary time for parents. Carol Wyer incorporated those fears into this book, and she did a great job!
I liked the additional perspective of the killer occasionally being thrown in. Definitely made it interesting to know his thoughts.
I highly recommend this book, I can't wait for book 4..
Thank-You to NetGalley; the publisher, Bookouture; and the author, Carol Wyer; for providing a free e-ARC copy of this book.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Heartlands (Detective Jessie Blake #1) in Books
May 22, 2019
Call it mothers intuition, but I knew she was dead the moment she was late home. As I listened to her phone ring and ring, thats when I knew for sure. My little girl was gone.
Fifteen-year-old Shannon Ross is missing and her parents are distraught. With her long blonde hair, easy laugh and perfect grades, shes the girl everyone at school wants to be.
Detective Jessie Blake is called to Inverlochty, the missing girls home town in the Scottish Highlands, and finds Shannon was keeping a diary full of friends and neighbors secrets. She knows the kind, outgoing boy whos sleeping with his teacher and the quiet woman whos been having an affair with her best friends husband.
Just as Jessie and her team are beginning to understand Shannons complicated world, her lifeless body is found on an ice-cold river bank on the outskirts of town. And when Jessie tells Shannons family the heart-breaking news, she senses something isnt right. The loving family is beginning to show cracks. Did Shannon know about her fathers alcohol problems and violent past? Why does Shannons mother keep finding excuses to leave the room, when Jessie wants to ask her questions?
As Jessie begins to piece together the final days of Shannons life, her own history comes back to haunt her. Putting aside her personal demons, Jessie vows to do whatever it takes to catch Shannons killer. But what if the killer is ready to strike first?
Totally captivating and addictive read. I loved this book! There are two storylines. One routed in the past about a brutally raped and murdered school girl and her young killers as they face trial and juvenile detention. One in the present, a missing school girl, Shannon, baring all the similarities of the case from the past - or so it seems.
There are a lot of characters introduced and it ca be a bit overwhelming but persevere as the novel is one worth reading.
The plot is very well written in my opinion and it does flow well. The main characters are well written and enjoy them.
Very compelling and suspenseful read.
I look forward to more in the series as it develops and hope to get more backstory on the detective.
Highly recommend!
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.
Fifteen-year-old Shannon Ross is missing and her parents are distraught. With her long blonde hair, easy laugh and perfect grades, shes the girl everyone at school wants to be.
Detective Jessie Blake is called to Inverlochty, the missing girls home town in the Scottish Highlands, and finds Shannon was keeping a diary full of friends and neighbors secrets. She knows the kind, outgoing boy whos sleeping with his teacher and the quiet woman whos been having an affair with her best friends husband.
Just as Jessie and her team are beginning to understand Shannons complicated world, her lifeless body is found on an ice-cold river bank on the outskirts of town. And when Jessie tells Shannons family the heart-breaking news, she senses something isnt right. The loving family is beginning to show cracks. Did Shannon know about her fathers alcohol problems and violent past? Why does Shannons mother keep finding excuses to leave the room, when Jessie wants to ask her questions?
As Jessie begins to piece together the final days of Shannons life, her own history comes back to haunt her. Putting aside her personal demons, Jessie vows to do whatever it takes to catch Shannons killer. But what if the killer is ready to strike first?
Totally captivating and addictive read. I loved this book! There are two storylines. One routed in the past about a brutally raped and murdered school girl and her young killers as they face trial and juvenile detention. One in the present, a missing school girl, Shannon, baring all the similarities of the case from the past - or so it seems.
There are a lot of characters introduced and it ca be a bit overwhelming but persevere as the novel is one worth reading.
The plot is very well written in my opinion and it does flow well. The main characters are well written and enjoy them.
Very compelling and suspenseful read.
I look forward to more in the series as it develops and hope to get more backstory on the detective.
Highly recommend!
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Scrappy Little Nobody in Books
Feb 1, 2018
Anna Kendrick has been acting (and singing) since childhood, and her autobiography chronicles her growth as an actress and person, as told in little snippets and essays. Grouped in assorted themes, we hear from various stages of Anna's life, spanning her childhood to present day, and learn how Anna, a tiny scrappy kid, became a famous, Oscar-nominated actress. The book touches on her fame, as well as her personal thoughts and feelings.
I've always enjoyed Kendrick and have seen several of her films (and heard her sing about a million times, thanks to my young children and the popularity of the film, <i>Trolls</i>) but didn't know a lot about her early career. Her autobiography does a good job of filling in some of the gaps of Anna's childhood career (working on Broadway at twelve - who knew?!), but isn't told in any chronological order, so we don't get a sense of any real span of her career from Point A to B. Most of the book is told in short little bits. Many of them are quite funny stories, and there are some truly laugh out loud moments. In many cases, Kendrick is a very relatable person, who seems like the type of friend you'd like to hang out with. At other points, she seemed a bit whiny, and for me, the book spent too much time with her protesting about some of the travails of being in the celebrity industry. I can only take so much "woe is me" from famous people who write books about their lives.
The book is on more solid ground when we're reading about Anna's early life, where you gain a true admiration for her talent, and with her silly and snarky stories about her misanthropic personality (misanthropes unite!). Still, the jumping back and forth in time makes it hard to get a true trace on the arc of her life at times, and beyond some of the complaining and expounding on the travails of award shows, press junkets, and the like, there wasn't as much about her post-fame life as I was interested in.
If you like Kendrick's films, or her twitter feed, you'll probably enjoy the book and its organization, even if you find yourself wishing for a little more at the end. She's led an interesting life so far, and I'm sure another autobiography down the road would be quite intriguing.
I've always enjoyed Kendrick and have seen several of her films (and heard her sing about a million times, thanks to my young children and the popularity of the film, <i>Trolls</i>) but didn't know a lot about her early career. Her autobiography does a good job of filling in some of the gaps of Anna's childhood career (working on Broadway at twelve - who knew?!), but isn't told in any chronological order, so we don't get a sense of any real span of her career from Point A to B. Most of the book is told in short little bits. Many of them are quite funny stories, and there are some truly laugh out loud moments. In many cases, Kendrick is a very relatable person, who seems like the type of friend you'd like to hang out with. At other points, she seemed a bit whiny, and for me, the book spent too much time with her protesting about some of the travails of being in the celebrity industry. I can only take so much "woe is me" from famous people who write books about their lives.
The book is on more solid ground when we're reading about Anna's early life, where you gain a true admiration for her talent, and with her silly and snarky stories about her misanthropic personality (misanthropes unite!). Still, the jumping back and forth in time makes it hard to get a true trace on the arc of her life at times, and beyond some of the complaining and expounding on the travails of award shows, press junkets, and the like, there wasn't as much about her post-fame life as I was interested in.
If you like Kendrick's films, or her twitter feed, you'll probably enjoy the book and its organization, even if you find yourself wishing for a little more at the end. She's led an interesting life so far, and I'm sure another autobiography down the road would be quite intriguing.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Bunny Finds a Friend in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Cara Jong is working as a process server when she delivers a summons to a Santa. Except this Santa is a gorgeous woman, who immediately strikes a chord with Cara. The two share a "moment," which stays with Cara for some time. She eventually tracks down said Santa, who turns out to be Jude Donovan, a well-known children's book author. The two "meet cute," so to speak, at a reading of Jude's and sparks fly. They begin dating, but it seems like things just aren't meant to be. Will Cara's flighty nature and lack of commitment (all well-documented by her older sisters) doom the relationship? What about Jude's ex and her young daughter Zoe, who doesn't seem happy to have her Mom dating again? Can Cara and Jude overcome these obstacles and find happiness?
This was a cute book, with fairly realistic characters leading a fairly realistic life--something that's harder to find than one would think in lesbian literature. Cara's a regular gal, with a typical lack of commitment found in a myriad characters in literature, gay and straight. Perhaps the biggest issue with this book is that it sort of seems like a sketch of what could have been an even more fully-developed and even more enjoyable novel. We don't get to see a lot of Cara and Jude's actual relationship development, for instance. Their courtship and issues are quickly glossed over. I would have liked to have seen more of what led them to fall for each other--and fall apart. After all, those sorts of things (falling in love, struggling to maintain a relationship while juggling exes and children and jobs) are what we all have in common.
Cara's sisters are also supposed to add a bit of comic relief, perhaps, to the novel, but they sometimes come across as harpy and annoying. While several of them are dealing with complex issues, they don't get the full attention they truly deserve.
Still, this was a fun, quick read. It's always refreshing to read lesbian fiction with normal characters navigating life. I liked Cara, sympathized with her on a multitude of levels, and did enjoy reading about her journey. Overall, 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC of this novel from Netgalley - thank you!
This was a cute book, with fairly realistic characters leading a fairly realistic life--something that's harder to find than one would think in lesbian literature. Cara's a regular gal, with a typical lack of commitment found in a myriad characters in literature, gay and straight. Perhaps the biggest issue with this book is that it sort of seems like a sketch of what could have been an even more fully-developed and even more enjoyable novel. We don't get to see a lot of Cara and Jude's actual relationship development, for instance. Their courtship and issues are quickly glossed over. I would have liked to have seen more of what led them to fall for each other--and fall apart. After all, those sorts of things (falling in love, struggling to maintain a relationship while juggling exes and children and jobs) are what we all have in common.
Cara's sisters are also supposed to add a bit of comic relief, perhaps, to the novel, but they sometimes come across as harpy and annoying. While several of them are dealing with complex issues, they don't get the full attention they truly deserve.
Still, this was a fun, quick read. It's always refreshing to read lesbian fiction with normal characters navigating life. I liked Cara, sympathized with her on a multitude of levels, and did enjoy reading about her journey. Overall, 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC of this novel from Netgalley - thank you!
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Live and Love Again in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Three years ago, Sarah lost her partner, Cheryl, in a terrible accident. A former Colonel in the military, Sarah remains shattered by Cheryl's death and closed off to those around her. She focuses on her furniture business and her dog, Benny. But on a flight to Chicago, she meets Jessica Whitney, a beautiful, successful, businesswoman. The two hit it off immediately and feel an instant connection. The sudden sparks force Sarah to re-think everything - is she ready to move one? Can she really imagine herself with a wealthy and strong woman?
This book is admittedly, a fairly stereotypical cheesy romance. But if the New Adult genre can write them so prolifically, then I think it's refreshing to find a novel that actually offers lesbian characters. True, I probably overlooked a few flaws in this book because I'm completely starved for books with lesbian protagonists and romance, but it was still an enjoyable story. The book engages you early on, when Jessica and Sarah meet. I read the first 150 pages rapidly - it drew me in immediately. Sarah is a likable character; as is Jessica, really. You can imagine knowing either of them in your lesbian circles (beyond Jessica's money, perhaps).
Speaking of the money, the book hammers home that point a bit much: Sarah has no money, Jessica has plenty of it. That gets a bit repetitive and the book stalls a little in the middle. That stall is helped by the cliche of the "wounded character hurt by a death in a previous relationship who can't move on." However, that cliche is found in plenty of genres, not just LGBT. Still, Gayle maneuvers her characters around all their issues fairly deftly. You're pretty sure you know how Jessica and Sarah will wind up, but it's still fun watching them get there. The book is sexy (especially early on - maybe that's the real lesbian cliche - ha!), fun, and, as always, refreshing to see some lesbian characters portrayed as real people. Points for the sweet and loyal supporting character of Jimmy the Driver, too. Definitely a fun, quick read.
I received an ARC of this novel from Netgalley (thank you!); it is available for publication on 1/19. You can check out a review of this novel and many others on my <a href="http://justacatandabookatherside.blogspot.com/">blog</a>;.
This book is admittedly, a fairly stereotypical cheesy romance. But if the New Adult genre can write them so prolifically, then I think it's refreshing to find a novel that actually offers lesbian characters. True, I probably overlooked a few flaws in this book because I'm completely starved for books with lesbian protagonists and romance, but it was still an enjoyable story. The book engages you early on, when Jessica and Sarah meet. I read the first 150 pages rapidly - it drew me in immediately. Sarah is a likable character; as is Jessica, really. You can imagine knowing either of them in your lesbian circles (beyond Jessica's money, perhaps).
Speaking of the money, the book hammers home that point a bit much: Sarah has no money, Jessica has plenty of it. That gets a bit repetitive and the book stalls a little in the middle. That stall is helped by the cliche of the "wounded character hurt by a death in a previous relationship who can't move on." However, that cliche is found in plenty of genres, not just LGBT. Still, Gayle maneuvers her characters around all their issues fairly deftly. You're pretty sure you know how Jessica and Sarah will wind up, but it's still fun watching them get there. The book is sexy (especially early on - maybe that's the real lesbian cliche - ha!), fun, and, as always, refreshing to see some lesbian characters portrayed as real people. Points for the sweet and loyal supporting character of Jimmy the Driver, too. Definitely a fun, quick read.
I received an ARC of this novel from Netgalley (thank you!); it is available for publication on 1/19. You can check out a review of this novel and many others on my <a href="http://justacatandabookatherside.blogspot.com/">blog</a>;.
Ross (3284 KP) Apr 30, 2018
Erika (17788 KP) Apr 30, 2018