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Becs (244 KP) rated Death of a Salesman in Books
Oct 2, 2019
Wow. Death of a Salesman was a different style of a literary classic that I was honestly never expecting. It grabbed my emotions and pulled on my heartstrings. The plot contained a rollercoaster of events, and I’ll admit, there were a few times I was utterly confused and wanted to throw the book across the room. But towards the end of the ride, I was able to understand what each issue each of the characters had and what it meant to them.
Understanding the pain that Willy was going through. Understanding the issues Biff has with stealing from jobs. Understanding Happy’s need to sleep around. Bringing to light the issue of a salesman’s career and how the job market was going downhill. Death of a Salesman is worth a read or a couple of rereads!
Genre: Literary Classic, plays
Audience: Young Adult and Adults
Interests: Plays, salesmen, American Dreams, family-ties
Quality: The quality of Death of a Salesman is not one you can take lightly. There are moments throughout the play that a younger version of myself would never be able to understand until I experienced the real world for myself. Now, I understand what it’s like losing a job you hoped to have for the rest of your life. Becoming depressed to the point that you just don’t know what to do anymore regarding your family other than hoping that they can make ends meet when you’re gone.
Insights: Death of a Salesman shows that dreams are not always sunny beaches and sprinkles. But that it contains a dark side that will rip your happiness and everything you’ve lived for into a million tiny pieces that will never be able to be fixed again.
Favorite Quotes: “The jungle is dark but full of diamonds, Willy.”
“I realized what a ridiculous lie my whole life has been.”
“I stopped in the middle of that building and I saw — the sky. I saw the things that I love in this world. The work and the food and time to sit and smoke. And I looked at the pen and said to myself, what the hell am I grabbing this for? Why am I trying to become what I don’t want to be? What am I doing in an office, making a contemptuous, begging fool of myself, when all I want is out there, waiting for me the minute I say I know who I am! Why can’t I say that, Willy?”
Aesthetics: I love how Arthur Miller shows the reader what it’s like in a world as a struggling family. Nonetheless, a struggling middle-aged man in the fifties who is battling depression and the loss of his career. It really shows the reader that anything can happen, that you could possibly lose your career. That you could possibly lose your home or even your loved ones. Anything can happen when life decides to wipe your slate and leave you with nothing in return. So the time we have now, we must cherish it. For we never know how much time we truly have.
“The only thing you’ve got in this world is what you can sell.”
Understanding the pain that Willy was going through. Understanding the issues Biff has with stealing from jobs. Understanding Happy’s need to sleep around. Bringing to light the issue of a salesman’s career and how the job market was going downhill. Death of a Salesman is worth a read or a couple of rereads!
Genre: Literary Classic, plays
Audience: Young Adult and Adults
Interests: Plays, salesmen, American Dreams, family-ties
Quality: The quality of Death of a Salesman is not one you can take lightly. There are moments throughout the play that a younger version of myself would never be able to understand until I experienced the real world for myself. Now, I understand what it’s like losing a job you hoped to have for the rest of your life. Becoming depressed to the point that you just don’t know what to do anymore regarding your family other than hoping that they can make ends meet when you’re gone.
Insights: Death of a Salesman shows that dreams are not always sunny beaches and sprinkles. But that it contains a dark side that will rip your happiness and everything you’ve lived for into a million tiny pieces that will never be able to be fixed again.
Favorite Quotes: “The jungle is dark but full of diamonds, Willy.”
“I realized what a ridiculous lie my whole life has been.”
“I stopped in the middle of that building and I saw — the sky. I saw the things that I love in this world. The work and the food and time to sit and smoke. And I looked at the pen and said to myself, what the hell am I grabbing this for? Why am I trying to become what I don’t want to be? What am I doing in an office, making a contemptuous, begging fool of myself, when all I want is out there, waiting for me the minute I say I know who I am! Why can’t I say that, Willy?”
Aesthetics: I love how Arthur Miller shows the reader what it’s like in a world as a struggling family. Nonetheless, a struggling middle-aged man in the fifties who is battling depression and the loss of his career. It really shows the reader that anything can happen, that you could possibly lose your career. That you could possibly lose your home or even your loved ones. Anything can happen when life decides to wipe your slate and leave you with nothing in return. So the time we have now, we must cherish it. For we never know how much time we truly have.
“The only thing you’ve got in this world is what you can sell.”
Kelly Reichardt recommended Safe (1995) in Movies (curated)
Debbiereadsbook (1780 KP) rated A Whisper of Claws (Steel Vanguard #1) in Books
Apr 18, 2026
I'm sorry I couldn't love it!
Independent reviewer for BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.
My review of this book will be short, and I'm sorry about that!
I . . . struggled . . . I think is the best word.. . .with this book. I've no idea why, because I loved Ms Roberts Hawks books, and I love pretty much anything with dragons, so I can only assume it was a me thing, rather than a book thing.
I liked that Luka and Izabel both had a say, as did their dragon half. I really liked that way the plot twisted, and the threat came from an unexpected source.
I loved the way that others in the group were given enough hints for their books (or at least that was the way my mind went!)
It's steamy and full of danger, intrigue, and yes, dragons. Even if Luka was at odds with his for most of the book, but the boy does redeem himself!
I enjoyed it, I finished it, and I will try to follow what and who comes next, because while Izabel and Luka get a HEA, there is much unfinished.
3 very VERY good stars (again, a ME thing!)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
My review of this book will be short, and I'm sorry about that!
I . . . struggled . . . I think is the best word.. . .with this book. I've no idea why, because I loved Ms Roberts Hawks books, and I love pretty much anything with dragons, so I can only assume it was a me thing, rather than a book thing.
I liked that Luka and Izabel both had a say, as did their dragon half. I really liked that way the plot twisted, and the threat came from an unexpected source.
I loved the way that others in the group were given enough hints for their books (or at least that was the way my mind went!)
It's steamy and full of danger, intrigue, and yes, dragons. Even if Luka was at odds with his for most of the book, but the boy does redeem himself!
I enjoyed it, I finished it, and I will try to follow what and who comes next, because while Izabel and Luka get a HEA, there is much unfinished.
3 very VERY good stars (again, a ME thing!)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1780 KP) rated A Little Christmas: Terrence in Books
Jan 18, 2023
cute read, but not quite pushing my buttons.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I liked this, but I'm not sure I can say I loved it, though!
Oh, don't get me wrong, it's a good story. I loved Terrence and Warner. Hated the lawyer dude right from the start, but that was justified. Loved Warner's friend, and the part he plays.
I liked how Terrence and Warner slotted together perfectly. And how Warner didn't do anything without the clues from Terrence. I especially like that Warner made Terrence wait to fully consummate their relationship. I do enjoy being made to wait!
I think, for me, it was the level that Terrence sank into his little that I struggled with. There are some aspects of Daddy/little play that are a bit hit and miss for me, depending on how it’s delivered in the story. This goes a little bit too deep into that particular aspect, I’m afraid, and that’s why I couldn’t quite love it.
I did like it, and it’s a wonderful tale. I loved that Terrence gets his HEA in more ways than one.
4 good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I liked this, but I'm not sure I can say I loved it, though!
Oh, don't get me wrong, it's a good story. I loved Terrence and Warner. Hated the lawyer dude right from the start, but that was justified. Loved Warner's friend, and the part he plays.
I liked how Terrence and Warner slotted together perfectly. And how Warner didn't do anything without the clues from Terrence. I especially like that Warner made Terrence wait to fully consummate their relationship. I do enjoy being made to wait!
I think, for me, it was the level that Terrence sank into his little that I struggled with. There are some aspects of Daddy/little play that are a bit hit and miss for me, depending on how it’s delivered in the story. This goes a little bit too deep into that particular aspect, I’m afraid, and that’s why I couldn’t quite love it.
I did like it, and it’s a wonderful tale. I loved that Terrence gets his HEA in more ways than one.
4 good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Frank Black recommended Combat Rock by The Clash in Music (curated)
Merissa (14056 KP) rated Imminence (Connected #2) in Books
Nov 9, 2017
Imminence (Connected #2) by Kat Stiles
Imminence is the second book in the Connected series, and being as I loved book one, I couldn't wait to read this one. As it had been a while since I read book one, I took the opportunity to re-read that one, and can I just say that even knowing how it ended this time, I still fell in love with the characters and situations just as much! HOWEVER, this review is about the second book, not the first.
Imminence starts where Connected finished. Basically, Em puts the phone down on her dad - the one she had thought was dead for years - and tries to understand just what is going on. Also, whilst dealing with the adrenaline drop from the attack. Not easy for anyone, let alone a sixteen-year-old! The gorgeous Tommy is on hand though, to help her cope. And yes, this is one of those times that I felt like a complete cougar, lusting after a (much) younger man!! I blame Kat Stiles though - if she hadn't made him so scrummy, I wouldn't be needing counselling right now! ;)
Suffice it to say, this story is packed full of action and melting moments, plus you get to see Em's dad and why he did what he did. I loved that part, when it all became clear. If an author can make you relate to the 'big bad' then she is definitely doing it right. Lauren was a star in this book, and the repartee she has going on with Demetri had me laughing out loud.
Excellently written, with a fantastic storyline, and amazing characters, Imminence is a wonderful addition to the Connected series. Fair warning though, it does end on a cliffhanger that had me shouting out! Absolutely loved it, and definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
Imminence starts where Connected finished. Basically, Em puts the phone down on her dad - the one she had thought was dead for years - and tries to understand just what is going on. Also, whilst dealing with the adrenaline drop from the attack. Not easy for anyone, let alone a sixteen-year-old! The gorgeous Tommy is on hand though, to help her cope. And yes, this is one of those times that I felt like a complete cougar, lusting after a (much) younger man!! I blame Kat Stiles though - if she hadn't made him so scrummy, I wouldn't be needing counselling right now! ;)
Suffice it to say, this story is packed full of action and melting moments, plus you get to see Em's dad and why he did what he did. I loved that part, when it all became clear. If an author can make you relate to the 'big bad' then she is definitely doing it right. Lauren was a star in this book, and the repartee she has going on with Demetri had me laughing out loud.
Excellently written, with a fantastic storyline, and amazing characters, Imminence is a wonderful addition to the Connected series. Fair warning though, it does end on a cliffhanger that had me shouting out! Absolutely loved it, and definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
Merissa (14056 KP) rated Hunter's Barbs (Prime Omegaverse #5) in Books
Jun 2, 2025
HUNTER'S BARBS is the fifth book in the Prime Omegaverse series, although it can be read as a standalone. If it's your first foray into this world, take note of the trigger warnings!
Before I start my review, I'm going to be honest here and say that Aria's story isn't my favourite for a number of reasons, which I will explain.
The first four chapters completely threw me off. Two are told by Aria, and two by Fritz. Unfortunately, it seemed like two alternative beginnings, where one needed to be removed before the book went live, as the timeline and descriptions of events made no sense apart from going back in time. Aria is described by Fritz in chapter two as having blonde hair, which matches the book cover. After that, she is described as having auburn hair. There is a lot of talk about their deepening connection, but not wanting to name it. And speaking of naming things and repeats, Aria names Fritz twice, but both are written as the first time. Seeing repeated phrases and descriptions has come up in these books before, but this one seemed as though there was just 'more'.
Saying all that, I did enjoy the story! Especially once Aria stopped going on about the dragons. I can honestly say I didn't like her much to begin with. Fritz was a wonderful character whom I loved learning about. I especially liked it when he thawed out enough to show his caring side. Seeing Aria and Fritz work and love together were the highlights of this story.
I am still thoroughly enjoying the Prime Omegaverse series and definitely want to continue with it. I just don't think this was one of the best, although I am sure it will be loved by many.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* 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!
Jun 2, 2025
Before I start my review, I'm going to be honest here and say that Aria's story isn't my favourite for a number of reasons, which I will explain.
The first four chapters completely threw me off. Two are told by Aria, and two by Fritz. Unfortunately, it seemed like two alternative beginnings, where one needed to be removed before the book went live, as the timeline and descriptions of events made no sense apart from going back in time. Aria is described by Fritz in chapter two as having blonde hair, which matches the book cover. After that, she is described as having auburn hair. There is a lot of talk about their deepening connection, but not wanting to name it. And speaking of naming things and repeats, Aria names Fritz twice, but both are written as the first time. Seeing repeated phrases and descriptions has come up in these books before, but this one seemed as though there was just 'more'.
Saying all that, I did enjoy the story! Especially once Aria stopped going on about the dragons. I can honestly say I didn't like her much to begin with. Fritz was a wonderful character whom I loved learning about. I especially liked it when he thawed out enough to show his caring side. Seeing Aria and Fritz work and love together were the highlights of this story.
I am still thoroughly enjoying the Prime Omegaverse series and definitely want to continue with it. I just don't think this was one of the best, although I am sure it will be loved by many.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* 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!
Jun 2, 2025
Dana (24 KP) rated An Ember in the Ashes (An Ember in the Ashes #1) in Books
Mar 23, 2018
I have been lucky enough to read a lot of amazing books recently, this one included!
I honestly don't know why I waited so long to read it, but I'm glad I finally picked it up. It definitely lived up to its hype (something not every book can say)!!
I loved the charcter development. Even when the characters themselves couldn't see it, it was amazing to watch them grow. Getting to see Laia grow stronger with each chapter, both emotionally and physically, made me very excited and I found myself rooting for her in every action she did! Laia and Elias are amazing. Yes, there were two (2!!) love triangles going on at the same time, but we weren't focused primarily on that. Plus, we know the endgame (am I right? Laias forever!). And to make it even better, POC CHARACTERS!!!!!! I have been loving the trend of more POC characters recently!! Authors, definitely keep up the amazing work with that!!!
The world was fascinating, the characters were beautifully described, and I was completely drawn in from the first page. The mystery and intrigue was just coy enough to keep us guessing, but not annoyingly over-the-top to where it was keeping important information from us. I thought that was very tastefully done. I loved how it was able to get gritty and dark without being disgusting or too graphic.
Overall, I absolutely adored this novel. I can see why it got picked up for a movie deal so quickly! It deserved it!!
I honestly don't know why I waited so long to read it, but I'm glad I finally picked it up. It definitely lived up to its hype (something not every book can say)!!
I loved the charcter development. Even when the characters themselves couldn't see it, it was amazing to watch them grow. Getting to see Laia grow stronger with each chapter, both emotionally and physically, made me very excited and I found myself rooting for her in every action she did! Laia and Elias are amazing. Yes, there were two (2!!) love triangles going on at the same time, but we weren't focused primarily on that. Plus, we know the endgame (am I right? Laias forever!). And to make it even better, POC CHARACTERS!!!!!! I have been loving the trend of more POC characters recently!! Authors, definitely keep up the amazing work with that!!!
The world was fascinating, the characters were beautifully described, and I was completely drawn in from the first page. The mystery and intrigue was just coy enough to keep us guessing, but not annoyingly over-the-top to where it was keeping important information from us. I thought that was very tastefully done. I loved how it was able to get gritty and dark without being disgusting or too graphic.
Overall, I absolutely adored this novel. I can see why it got picked up for a movie deal so quickly! It deserved it!!
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Debbiereadsbook (1780 KP) rated Escaping Mortality (Escape Trilogy #3) in Books
Jan 28, 2019
a very fitting end!!
I was gifted my copy of this book, direct from the author, that I write a review was not required. But since I read and reviewed the other two parts, it's only fitting I review this one, too, don't you think??
This is the third and final book in the Escape trilogy and you rally MUST read the other two books first. You need to know how Edmund and Andrew found themselves in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, looking for an Elder!
Only Andrew has a say in these books, and THIS one, more than the other two, I NEEDED Edmund I really did! Some things happen here, that made me want to hear what he had to say, so bloody bad and he doesn't. I KNEW that he probably would not have a say, but a girl can hope, right?
Edmund and Andrew and their friends are on a boat to England and to find the Elder. Once the Elder has located and Edmund turned, they continue on to visit Edmund's sick mother. The "friend" looking after her is vile and dealing with her and the gifts the Elder has bestowed upon him, pushes Edmund to his limits. Then WHY the Elder gave Edmund these gifts becomes clear and Edmund has a choice: Andrew or the Elder.
I found this one a little less sexy than the others, but a whole lot more bloody! The way Edmund deals with the friend was scary, but needed I think. The Elder? Well he choose his path, once it became clear that there is, and there will only ever be, ONE person for Edmund.
I did not see what the "friend" was up to, looking after Edmund's mother, nor did I see what the Elder had planned fro Edmund, so it was nice to be surprised by those things.
I LOVED the epilogue! Seriously well played with that one!
I have enjoyed these three short bursts of Andrew and Edmund, but I really think had Edmund been given a voice too, these would have been all 5 star reads.
Thank you, for letting me read your books, Ms Dobie Bauer!
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is the third and final book in the Escape trilogy and you rally MUST read the other two books first. You need to know how Edmund and Andrew found themselves in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, looking for an Elder!
Only Andrew has a say in these books, and THIS one, more than the other two, I NEEDED Edmund I really did! Some things happen here, that made me want to hear what he had to say, so bloody bad and he doesn't. I KNEW that he probably would not have a say, but a girl can hope, right?
Edmund and Andrew and their friends are on a boat to England and to find the Elder. Once the Elder has located and Edmund turned, they continue on to visit Edmund's sick mother. The "friend" looking after her is vile and dealing with her and the gifts the Elder has bestowed upon him, pushes Edmund to his limits. Then WHY the Elder gave Edmund these gifts becomes clear and Edmund has a choice: Andrew or the Elder.
I found this one a little less sexy than the others, but a whole lot more bloody! The way Edmund deals with the friend was scary, but needed I think. The Elder? Well he choose his path, once it became clear that there is, and there will only ever be, ONE person for Edmund.
I did not see what the "friend" was up to, looking after Edmund's mother, nor did I see what the Elder had planned fro Edmund, so it was nice to be surprised by those things.
I LOVED the epilogue! Seriously well played with that one!
I have enjoyed these three short bursts of Andrew and Edmund, but I really think had Edmund been given a voice too, these would have been all 5 star reads.
Thank you, for letting me read your books, Ms Dobie Bauer!
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**