Search
Search results
Merissa (13178 KP) rated Surrounded by Silence (The Rescuer #2) in Books
Nov 25, 2020 (Updated Aug 14, 2023)
SURROUNDED BY SILENCE is the second book in The Rescuer series and while it does feature some of the characters from the first book, can be read as a standalone because the issues raised are discussed in this book.
Sam has reached rock bottom and has realised that for all his billions, he can't buy happiness. He reaches out to the one person he thinks can help and manages to convince him. That is how Sam ends up working in a Soup Kitchen.
I enjoyed this book so much more than the first (sorry, Mr Huffbind!) The writing style is not as stilted and flowed more naturally. The dialogue was more believable and the "I love you's" weren't bandied around as quickly or as often.
The terror that Sam feels toward the end of the book comes across clearly and was extremely well written. The whole problem with learning ASL was also easy to read. As someone who was learning BSL, I know how daunting it can be but also how rewarding.
All in all, this book was completely enjoyable and I have no hesitation in recommending it.
* 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!
Nov 25, 2020
Sam has reached rock bottom and has realised that for all his billions, he can't buy happiness. He reaches out to the one person he thinks can help and manages to convince him. That is how Sam ends up working in a Soup Kitchen.
I enjoyed this book so much more than the first (sorry, Mr Huffbind!) The writing style is not as stilted and flowed more naturally. The dialogue was more believable and the "I love you's" weren't bandied around as quickly or as often.
The terror that Sam feels toward the end of the book comes across clearly and was extremely well written. The whole problem with learning ASL was also easy to read. As someone who was learning BSL, I know how daunting it can be but also how rewarding.
All in all, this book was completely enjoyable and I have no hesitation in recommending it.
* 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!
Nov 25, 2020
Taryn K (444 KP) rated Curiosity Thrilled the Cat (A Magical Cats Mystery, #1) in Books
May 4, 2018
Curiosity thrilled this reader too
This is a great start to a fun cozy series. Kathleen, our heroine, is fairly believable, for the most part. Her quirks are unusual, but so are her cats, Hercules and Owen. As an almost-new-to-the-area librarian, in a library needing many renovations, she meets many interesting people, including Gregor Easton, our victim. There are incidents, near misses, and several Fred the Funky Chickens involved before justice is served.
I've read this series through three times so far, and I'm working on a fourth run-through because of the new book Paws and Effect. I'd definitely recommend it to others.
I've read this series through three times so far, and I'm working on a fourth run-through because of the new book Paws and Effect. I'd definitely recommend it to others.
Sue (7 KP) rated Line Of Duty in TV
May 19, 2019
Twists and suspense in each season and more to come!
I was a bit sceptical as I am normally for a 'who done it' series but I can honestly say I have been well and truly sucked in.
One of the best series I have watched for a while, full of suspense, twists and you can find yourself almost questioning what you would do in those situations. I love a book of series where you almost sympathise with the 'baddies' as there is always a story behind each of their decisions.
The law is the law.
Not disappointing in any way.
One of the best series I have watched for a while, full of suspense, twists and you can find yourself almost questioning what you would do in those situations. I love a book of series where you almost sympathise with the 'baddies' as there is always a story behind each of their decisions.
The law is the law.
Not disappointing in any way.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2395 KP) rated Going, Going, Ganache (Cupcake Bakery Mystery, #5) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
When a photo shoot for Southwest Style turns into a disaster, Mel and Angie find themselves hosting a cupcake boot camp as a team building exercise for the fractured magazine staff. The second morning, Mel finds out of the staff members murdered behind her shop. With the prime suspects in her bakery, can Mel figure out who the killer is?
This is a wonderful addition to the series, and it is easy to see why the series has so many fans. The characters, main and new, are all strong. The mystery provides plenty of tension, suspects, and red herrings, and a couple of sub-plots involving the main characters will keep series fans engrossed as well. Add to that delicious cupcake recipes in the back, and you’ve got a winner.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/11/book-review-going-going-ganache-by-jenn.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This is a wonderful addition to the series, and it is easy to see why the series has so many fans. The characters, main and new, are all strong. The mystery provides plenty of tension, suspects, and red herrings, and a couple of sub-plots involving the main characters will keep series fans engrossed as well. Add to that delicious cupcake recipes in the back, and you’ve got a winner.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/11/book-review-going-going-ganache-by-jenn.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Christine A. (965 KP) rated Red Rising in Books
Nov 14, 2018
"Red Rising" is the first book in the "Red Rising Saga" by Pierce Brown. I read this book switching between a printed copy, an E-book and, when in the car, listened to the audio book. While this story is not a new concept the story is engaging and a quick read. At the start of the book, Darrow, a member of the lowest caste is full of hate and rage toward the dominant Gold caste. (SPOILERS FOLLOW) Throughout the story, and even toward the end, Darrow is surprised to learn he likes, and has become friends with, some of the Golds. He learned not all members of a group are the same. At the end of the novel, he is still full of rage and hate but it's now directed mainly at specific people, not just all members of the ruling Gold caste. I would like to see this story added to required reading lists for students. This book is a subtle way to teach tolerance. I will read the rest of the series but at this time. I had read twice. The 1st read (in 2015) was for me. The 2nd read (in 2018) was for a book club.
Lindsay (1774 KP) rated The Frights of Fiji ( Alyssa McCarthy's Magical Missions #1) in Books
Apr 9, 2020
Well, I found a book to fall into during this strange time. That book is The Frights of Figi, it quite a good book. Once you get into it. This book is about a girl that somehow attracts magic into her life. Why this happens I do not know.
Her name is Alyssa and she lives with her Uncle and cousin. When things start happening, no one believes her. She gets into trouble. Will she get save herself and friends and family. Things get more interesting one she is kidnapped by an evil wizard.
This is good for middle-grade children and ages 8 to 12 years old. The author does a really good job with the plot of the story. The characters are developed well. If you are looking for a good fantasy book for your child or children this one is good. This one as a young girl as a hero.
This is a series. It is a good one at that. Alyssa McCarthy Magical Missions. I can not wait to pick up the second book. I am wondering if her friends from the previous book are going to need to help her or if she ends up doing it herself.
Her name is Alyssa and she lives with her Uncle and cousin. When things start happening, no one believes her. She gets into trouble. Will she get save herself and friends and family. Things get more interesting one she is kidnapped by an evil wizard.
This is good for middle-grade children and ages 8 to 12 years old. The author does a really good job with the plot of the story. The characters are developed well. If you are looking for a good fantasy book for your child or children this one is good. This one as a young girl as a hero.
This is a series. It is a good one at that. Alyssa McCarthy Magical Missions. I can not wait to pick up the second book. I am wondering if her friends from the previous book are going to need to help her or if she ends up doing it herself.
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Nomad (The Flight and Flame Trilogy, #2) in Books
Feb 24, 2021
Yall…I have no idea where to begin describing the epicness that is this book. <i>Nomad</i> is the second book in R. J. Andersons <b>The Flight and Flame trilogy</b>, and I was totally not prepared for the next level that R. J. Anderson took this book to. I mean I LOVED <i>Swift</i> the first book in the series, but this one….
The adventures that Ivy and Martin go on are riveting in their intensity and made me stay up way too late to finish the book. I love the way all the characters interact together; R. J. Anderson has created such good relationships between her characters that they feel natural and inclusive. I loved how Ivy stepped up in this book and became a leader for her people. I also really love Martin’s antics and layered characteristics that keep me wondering.
Readers of all ages will love this epic fantasy filled with great characters, an original storyline, and an adventure of a lifetime. I <b>HIGHLY</b> recommend <i>Nomad</i> and I CANNOT wait for <i>Torch</i> to release! 5 out of 5 stars!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
The adventures that Ivy and Martin go on are riveting in their intensity and made me stay up way too late to finish the book. I love the way all the characters interact together; R. J. Anderson has created such good relationships between her characters that they feel natural and inclusive. I loved how Ivy stepped up in this book and became a leader for her people. I also really love Martin’s antics and layered characteristics that keep me wondering.
Readers of all ages will love this epic fantasy filled with great characters, an original storyline, and an adventure of a lifetime. I <b>HIGHLY</b> recommend <i>Nomad</i> and I CANNOT wait for <i>Torch</i> to release! 5 out of 5 stars!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Beyond Broadhall in Books
Aug 24, 2020
A fitting sequel
I was that excited to read this book that I’ve read and finished it across the space of 2 evenings, and that was purely because I made myself put it down on the first evening!
Like the first book, i struggled to put this down. It’s full of humour and heartwarming relationships, whilst Craig Pelling again tries to repair his damaged and broken life. I actually nearly shed a tear or two on more than one occasion. After the ending of the first book there’s really only a limited number of ways this sequel can pan out and this is the only real negative - unlike the first book which shocked me with how it ended, Beyond Broadhall is a tad predictable. That said, it’s the journey that matters in this book. Not everything pans out the way you’d expect and the entertainment stems from the investment you have in Craig. He really is a lovable and endearing character. I will admit that the ending of this book is making a tad cheesy and overly sweet and schmaltzy, but it’s nice to read how it turns out for Craig in the end. It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed reading a book series as much as this one!
Like the first book, i struggled to put this down. It’s full of humour and heartwarming relationships, whilst Craig Pelling again tries to repair his damaged and broken life. I actually nearly shed a tear or two on more than one occasion. After the ending of the first book there’s really only a limited number of ways this sequel can pan out and this is the only real negative - unlike the first book which shocked me with how it ended, Beyond Broadhall is a tad predictable. That said, it’s the journey that matters in this book. Not everything pans out the way you’d expect and the entertainment stems from the investment you have in Craig. He really is a lovable and endearing character. I will admit that the ending of this book is making a tad cheesy and overly sweet and schmaltzy, but it’s nice to read how it turns out for Craig in the end. It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed reading a book series as much as this one!
Merissa (13178 KP) rated Lair of Dreams (The Diviners, #2) in Books
May 20, 2023
This is an epic book that is based in 1920's New York, and everything you can associate with that - including flappers, parties and racism, to name but a few. A sleeping sickness is sweeping New York, starting off in Chinatown. It is up to Evie and a cast of characters to figure out what is happening and how to stop it.
This is the second book in the series and as such I would recommend reading book 1, The Diviners. I haven't and will admit to feeling slightly lost when the characters would think about or discuss what had happened before. The characters are all well-established with their own quirks and foibles by the time this book starts, so it did take a while to actually feel like I knew these people. Personally, my favourite characters were Ling and Henry, and the friendship that developed between them.
A dark, gothic and creepy book that may give you shivers, definitely recommended if you are on the lookout for something a bit different.
* 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!
Feb 15, 2016
This is the second book in the series and as such I would recommend reading book 1, The Diviners. I haven't and will admit to feeling slightly lost when the characters would think about or discuss what had happened before. The characters are all well-established with their own quirks and foibles by the time this book starts, so it did take a while to actually feel like I knew these people. Personally, my favourite characters were Ling and Henry, and the friendship that developed between them.
A dark, gothic and creepy book that may give you shivers, definitely recommended if you are on the lookout for something a bit different.
* 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!
Feb 15, 2016
Jenny Houle (24 KP) rated Agatha Raisin and the Witches' Tree in Books
Jan 13, 2018
I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley for an unbiased opinion.
Agatha Raisin is at it again. Following a hanging from tree locally infamous as "The Witches' Tree" in a neighboring Cotswold village, Agatha is hired to solve the case.
To those who've been with the series from the beginning, I found this book to be the best in awhile. Over the past few books, I've felt strongly that the changing backstory of a few primary characters (Simon and Charles specifically) was starting to detract from my enjoyment over the series. This time, while both were very present, Beaton left out the details that bothered me.
Additionally, this case truly was solved by Agatha and her agency (she's often accused of bumbling along until she stumbles upon the answer, only to need police rescue for herself as well... definitely not the case in this book).
And one more reason this book got a 5 out of 5 rating from me: Agatha doesn't fall in infatuation in this book. She does date, she does acknowledge that she's happiest when she's in love, but there was no "strong woman becomes blithering idiot" subplot this time.
Characters I wish I'd seen more of: Bill and Alice. Through the last few books, Bill's clearly been distancing himself from Agatha. Hope soon his romance with Alice will grow more and he can resume a more steady role in the books as Agatha's friend.
Agatha Raisin is at it again. Following a hanging from tree locally infamous as "The Witches' Tree" in a neighboring Cotswold village, Agatha is hired to solve the case.
To those who've been with the series from the beginning, I found this book to be the best in awhile. Over the past few books, I've felt strongly that the changing backstory of a few primary characters (Simon and Charles specifically) was starting to detract from my enjoyment over the series. This time, while both were very present, Beaton left out the details that bothered me.
Additionally, this case truly was solved by Agatha and her agency (she's often accused of bumbling along until she stumbles upon the answer, only to need police rescue for herself as well... definitely not the case in this book).
And one more reason this book got a 5 out of 5 rating from me: Agatha doesn't fall in infatuation in this book. She does date, she does acknowledge that she's happiest when she's in love, but there was no "strong woman becomes blithering idiot" subplot this time.
Characters I wish I'd seen more of: Bill and Alice. Through the last few books, Bill's clearly been distancing himself from Agatha. Hope soon his romance with Alice will grow more and he can resume a more steady role in the books as Agatha's friend.