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A Guide To Second Date Sex (2020)
A Guide To Second Date Sex (2020)
2020 | Comedy, Drama
9
9.0 (1 Ratings)
Movie Rating
Talk about burying the lead. Marie Claire offered its readers the chance to see A Guide To Second Date Sex free online for Valentine's Day, after seeing the cute little into from the lead actors I knew I had to give it a try.

Laura and Ryan have a chance meeting in a club after their friends abandon them, their awkward meeting turns into flirty banter and the two agree to a second date.

Both fresh off break-ups and clueless about how to go about dating they turn to their friends for help, but do too many cooks spoil the broth?

What a film. It's so awkward, but you just can't look away. I envy you if there isn't a moment in this that you can identify with. [Mum, if you're reading this I am of course playing it up for effect, I've never done any of this.] [Everyone else, 😬]

The keyword that kept popping up throughout my notes was "awkward", I truly hate awkward viewing. It's one of the reasons I don't like reality TV for the most part [when I do watch it I record it so I can fast forward through those bits]. I have actively walked out of the room because I couldn't cope watching things. How I managed to sit through this film I do not know. I was laughing out loud, I was burying my head in my hands, and yet I sat through it.

I can well and truly say at this point that I love George MacKay, put him in everything please. He plays Ryan, Ryan is somewhat unsuccessfully trying to get over his ex and his little experience with dating is being helped along by his flatmate Dan... but he's all for the conquest rather than the romance. Laura, played by Alexandra Roach has the backup of the internet, her mother and a friend, but she seems a little more sceptical about all the suggestions she's offered.

The setup gives you a very quick insight into our two main characters including some of the advice that's offered above. I've moaned in the past about short intros not setting up enough of the film that follows but with the way this film is laid out and the fact that the main action happens in the space of one evening means that everything unfolds very quickly and you don't need anything more.

When the present day story happens I really love the internal monologue that cuts in, the underlying insecurities and anxiety gets to bubble up. It absolutely needed it too, there's no way the film would have worked without this extra layer of humour. Without the audio the actors still do a great job, they mastered the art of the awkward silence, add the voiceover in and you get that chance to identify and match it to your own experience and internal commentary. I could write several stories in this vein based on my own experience. [Mum, again, I've never done any of this.] [Everyone else, 😬]

The film is based on the director's play that was performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, I would love to have seen how that was done, I'm visualising something crossed between a play and Fleabag.

A Guide To Second Date Sex expresses those hideous memories that you really wish had been erased with the evening full of alcohol that accompanied them. It reflects so many girls' nights in and morning after phones calls I've been part of that it had that nostalgic feel which I think is how I stayed engaged despite my awkward reaction. It's an amusing and charming tale of dating that develops into a hilarious romp through young love and its perils.

This was an immensely entertaining watch but I really wish it ended one clip earlier than it did, and that's the only reason I'm not giving this 5 stars.

[Note to friends when you see it... Yes, that scene... I know, right?!]

Originally posted on: https://emmaatthemovies.blogspot.com/2020/02/a-guide-to-second-date-sex-movie-review.html
  
TT
Turning This Thing Around
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
(This review can be found on my blog <a href="http://themisadventuresofatwentysomething.blogspot.com/">The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl</a>).


As a former sufferer of depression and anxiety, this book was something I really wanted to read. While it wasn't the best memoir I've ever read, it was still alright.

I like the title of this book. It fits in well considering Keith turns his life around. It's super fitting.

The cover may be plain, but the one picture works well especially when it comes to any kind of disease whether mental or physical.

I found the pacing of this book started off at a decent pace. However, the second part of the book slowed way down, and I found myself skimming over some of the paragraphs and pages.

It was interesting to read about Keith's tumultuous relationship with Mary. My heart went out to both of them, and I found myself relating to a lot of what was happening. I wanted Keith and Mary's relationship to work, I really did. It was interesting to read about how Keith coped when he came to Mary.

The second half became a bit too spiritual for me, and I found my interest waning. When I say spiritual, I don't mean godly. To me, it focused a bit too much on meditation. Plus, it became too quote heavy. It seemed that Keith was quoting a book or movie on almost every page. I'd rather have just read Keith's words as he's quite a good writer judging by this book. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad Keith was able to mostly overcome all the negative in his life, and he made some really good points and gave good advice, but it just wasn't my cup of tea.

Overall, Turning This Thing Around is a decent read. I think those that are into spirituality and possibly those that are in the throes of depression and anxiety would benefit the most from this book.


(I received a free paperback copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review).
  
Dead In The Garden (Grasmere Cottage Mystery #1)
Dead In The Garden (Grasmere Cottage Mystery #1)
Dahlia Donovan | 2018 | Crime, LGBTQ+, Romance
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
No idea where this is going but loved it!
Valor and Bishan have a good life in Grasmere. They run a successful business and Bishan has his music. So why is there a dead body in their garden, and why do the police think Bish did it?

A step away from Ms Donovan's usual fair, but thoroughly enjoyable one!

After the discovery of the body in the garden, Valor takes it upon himself to try to figure out who is out to get him and Bish, especially after Bish is arrested. Valor speaks with old Harrow school pals and teachers, trying to channel is inner tv detective, just like his favourite shows. Bish struggles away from home, he likes things just so, and the police cell makes him itchy.

I have just one one niggle here, and that it's only Valor who has a voice. I really wanted to hear from Bishan at key points along the way, and I wanted to hear how his mind would process everything. I love that Ms Donovan writes with Autistic characters playing front and centre. Bishan does, though, have the majority voice in book two, Dead in the Pond, so really looking forward to that!

For a murder/mystery, its not overly graphic, just enough to get the point across. There IS romance here, but not a great deal, since Valor and Bishan spend much of the book apart.

I loved the support network Bish and Valor have. Bish's family especially, but Valor's family?? Not so much! I STILL think they might have something to do with it all!

I really have no idea where this is going, nor do I really mind which way it goes, I just wanna read them! I want to see if I can put the clues together fast enough to watch it all play out the way I think it will, or if I'm too slow and don't get the whodunnit til it's all revealed!

So, ONLY because Bishan doesn't get a say here...

4 stars

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
  
Where Nerves End (Tucker Springs #1)
Where Nerves End (Tucker Springs #1)
L.A. Witt | 2018 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
warm and fuzzies, people, warm and fuzzies!
Independent review for Divine Magazine, I was gifted my copy of this book.

Jason is faced with two choices: an increase in pain medication, or a visit to the acupuncturist his friend keeps recommending. He opts for the latter to relieve his shoulder pain, but it is costly. Finding out Michael was also struggling financially, Jason suggests they become room mates, since Jason has room. Jason just never factored in the attraction he has for Michael, especially since Michael is straight, right?

Warm and fuzzies, right here! I really enjoyed this! I mean, I must have. I went to bed to read a few pages before sleep and 90 minutes later, I'm done! One late night sitting and I made a new shelf for them too!

My only niggle is that only Jason has a say! Even though it;s first person, I think if Michael had been given a voice, this would have been a 5 star read. Michael does go against his feelings. Well, not really AGAINST them, more he lets his TRUE feelings free and I wanted to ear from him at key points along the way. There were many of them, too, but mostly his first meeting with Jason; when Michael does what he does to set Jason off and the bits in between, when they are fighting the attraction so bloody hard it made my teeth hurt!

It's not really a Happy Ever After ending, either, at least I didn't think so. Oh they get together and announce it to every one and they are happy, I just feel there might be more to come from these guys! Is there?? I hope so!

This appears to be the first book in a series written by (that I can see) 3 different authors, set in Tucker Springs which is the series name. I'd certainly read more of them, by Witt especially. Her book "Nine Tenths of The Law" spurned a new shelf too, "too stinking cute". I'd quite happily read other books in the series, just to see who pops up along the way!

So, ONLY because Michael doesn't get a voice

4 stars

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
  
A Timeline Restored (Prevent the Past #3)
A Timeline Restored (Prevent the Past #3)
Rebecca Hefner | 2020 | Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
A TIMELINE RESTORED is the outstanding finale in the Prevent the Past trilogy and we finish with a bang!

It is Alora and Eli's turn - two people who have suffered more than most and are firmly on board with Lainey's plan. Now, I'm going to be honest here. I haven't suffered what Alora has (thank goodness) so I have no idea how I'd react, either during or after the event. I understand that, I do, but I did find myself telling her to move on; that Eli had done the best he could in a horrible situation, and that he wasn't the one to actually do the deed. She didn't listen to me and poor Eli paid the price. Him-I loved, which actually surprised me considering the things he has done. But, oh man, he knew he had done them and paid for them every moment of every day. Tortured hero, anyone? Sign me up!

Anyway, there is more to this book than just Eli and Alora. We also have Elle and Zach, plus Lainey and Hunter, plus Claire and Cyrus, and let's not forget the indomitable Marie. Can someone please pass me a hanky?

The ending - oh, my; let's talk about that ending, shall we? The words perfect, shocking, twisted, and is it really over? pass through my mind! I won't say anymore but oh, boy. Strap yourselves in because it's a bumpy ride but definitely worth it!

This has been such a great series, outside my normal comfort zone with all the talk of time travel, paradoxes, and science, but I have loved each and every book. Rebecca Hefner was already a go-to author for me for paranormal romance. Now I know that it doesn't matter the genre; if she writes it, I will read it!

HIGHLY recommended but please start with book one so you have some idea of what's going on!

** 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 15, 2023
  
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365Flicks (235 KP) rated Tri (2016) in Movies

Nov 20, 2019  
Tri (2016)
Tri (2016)
2016 |
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Movie Rating
An Inspirational Piece Showing Us that Even in The Face of Adversity, Who are We to not Achieve Greatness??
After having recently watched and reviewed the great Sports Documentary Ice Guardians (See previous posts). When Tri dropped into my lap it felt like the right time to give it a go and boy am I glad I did…

Where do I start with Tri?? Okay. First off this is not so much a documentary as it is a scripted carefully and accurately portrayed story of a Triathletes journey from start to finish. On paper you have to wonder what is there to keep you in this flick, well I am here to tell you fine people, A LOT.

We open the movie with Natalie played by Award Winning Actress Jensen Jacobs. Natalie is an Ultrasound Technician and after an appointment with a cancer suffering patient she is Inspired to sign up for a Triathlon. We find she is met by some hesitance from her friends and family as Natalie has trouble finishing just about everything she stajensen-jacobs-bike-300x157rts. The difference here though is that she signs up with a cast of great characters who all have there own inspiring stories to tell. Natalie is introduced to a world she was not prepared for and must look deep inside herself to get to the end of this journey.

Of course while this is primarily Natalie’s story we have a colorful set of team members for her to rely on. Each member of this team bringing a depth to this movie that… I wont lie to you… not only surprised me at points by moved me at others. This movie starts out as one thing and hits you with a one two punch of Sentiment and Inspiration. Leaving you wondering “who am I to feel sorry for myself? When people can show this kind of strength.”

I am not going to delve any further into this plot wise, because I really want you guys to support this movie and give it your attention. In my humble opinion I can honestly say that I believe this movie should be seen. Not only is this a well made and carefully told story but the acting talent on display is on point and its truly no wonder this movie is a hit with the critics and winning a boat load of awards.
  
Breaker 19: The CB Trucker game
Breaker 19: The CB Trucker game
1976 | Dice Game, Kids Game, Racing
The box art isn't bad (0 more)
Everything else (3 more)
Completely based on luck
The game plays you.....
No Decisions to be made
This IS NOT smokey and the bandit the boardgame.
Do you love dice, and do you hate making decisions? The just maybe this game is for you... This is an activity with rules rather than a game in my eyes. Those kid are not having fun on the box cover, I don't care what you say. In 1976 they really could've done better. But this particular game didn't bother to try. I put this on par with Candyland, but Candyland is much prettier and designed for kids to learn colors and counting. This one has almost nothing to offer. Even if you can get it for 50 cents at a garage sale, throw the board away and keep the dice and money for another game as missing pieces. Or even better, come up with your own rules and redesign the game. that would be a more fun process than playing the game as is for sure. I'm sure it would be more fun to be a trucker for a few hours, even on the boring straightaways of nebraska. So if you can do that instead. Even Monopoly is better than this game.
  
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Beetle Rider (341 KP) Apr 13, 2018

Wow. Harsh. Never heard of it but now I feel like I’ve played it. I know games like this and I avoid them.

A Woman is a Woman (1961)
A Woman is a Woman (1961)
1961 | Comedy, Drama, Romance
(0 Ratings)
Movie Favorite

"I blame this movie for starting me smoking again when I was in film school in the eighties. After becoming so smitten with all that Anna Karina embodies, I decided to wear blue tights with red skirts and smoke, constantly. Needless to say it did not turn me into Anna Karina—my tights were the wrong shade of blue, and I was hacking like an old granny at the Santa Anita racetrack. Still, I loved the film, wildly, and love her in it. What is so gorgeous about this DVD is, firstly, Anna herself, and nextly, the color is like powdered paint, soft yet vibrant—not just the gorgeousness of everything Karina wears but also the murals on the walls of the strip club where she works, the jukebox from which Charles Aznavour sings. The exteriors, often shot from high angles on rooftops, have the feel and texture of what Paris must have been at that moment. I saw in the booklet that this film was very special for Jean-Luc Godard and Karina. They were in love, they wed, she was pregnant with their baby, and you can feel the exuberance of the romance in this movie. It’s absolutely exhilarating to me, and also incredibly funny. The other amazing feature on the DVD is a short documentary on Anna Karina made in 1966, clearly to promote Anna, the musical Serge Gainsbourg wrote for her. Serge closes the short, talking in the most brazenly sensual, big, bold close-up about Anna’s humor, her voice, and her sex appeal . . . It’s scrumptious!"

Source
  
Frozen Flowers Fallen (Gen-Heirs World: Bella and the Beast Master)
Frozen Flowers Fallen (Gen-Heirs World: Bella and the Beast Master)
Sarah Westill | 2022 | Paranormal, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
An intense, slow-burn romance with a dash of suspense that is absolutely brilliant!
FROZEN FLOWERS FALLEN is the first book in the Gen-Heirs World: Bella and the Beast Master series. It's a quick read that takes you back to Sziveria where Gen-talents are held so highly.

Now, I'm warning you now, I have loved The Guardians of Sziveria series so this review is probably biased! What can I say? You've already seen it's got 5-stars!

Bella is a clerk with no apparent Gen-talent, thus making her invisible and beneath notice to some of the Guardians around. However, Bella has a brain and isn't afraid to use it - so long as it doesn't put her in the spotlight. When Markus shows up, he is intrigued by this clerk who has put together more of a case than the Guardians he is supposed to be working with.

What follows is an intense, slow-burn romance with a dash of suspense, with the main two characters jumping off the page but fully supported by the other characters. The ending is superb but will definitely leave you wanting more.

I honestly can't wait to continue this series. What an absolutely cracking start! I need more of Bella, Markus, and Lunah in my life. HIGHLY recommended by me.

** 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
  
Anger Management: The Complete Guide to Achieve Self-Control, Overcome Impulsiveness, and Managing Your Emotions by Tommy Foster has a title (or rather a subtitle) that is a little on the long side, but I am pleased to say that this is not a long winded book. The book can be finished in a day or two but I encourage those looking to benefit from it to read it slower.

This book rightly starts out with a disclaimer that it is not responsible for anything that someone may decide to do after reading it. It then moves onto an introduction and explains what anger is and where it comes from. These ideas will continue to pop up through the remainder of the book. It talks about the different types of anger that someone can have depending on what is going on internally and what caused the anger in the first place. Once of the main focuses of this book was how anger can effect our lives and relationships in both a positive and negative way depending on how we handle the anger itself. The ways that anger can do damage to our own self-image and even cause an endless loop of brooding and depression are also discussed at length.

Once the background information has been well established the book moves on to different ways of managing anger. Multiple ideas are offered. Some such ideas are to try to see things through the eyes of the person you are angry at or to actively listen because miscommunication could be an underlying cause. There is even an entire section towards the end devoted towards anger in the home and how to fix it before it gets out of hand and tears the family apart.

I liked how this book presented anger as a natural and healthy emotion. All too often anger is seen as a negative emotion and this book works to dispel that myth. The tone is also understanding and offering explanation instead of condescending, a welcome change. What I didn’t like is that unfortunately this book is in desperate need of a good editor. I am not typically one to complain about spelling or grammar but this book had issues that I could not ignore. In spots it actually becomes difficult to read because of these errors and the wording.

People wanting to get a handle on their anger will benefit from this book the most. At the same time those who find themselves frequently around someone who has problems with how they express anger will benefit by learning where that anger comes from. I rate this book a 2 out of 4. While this book really could be a helpful guide I can not give it a higher score in its present state. People that feel they could benefit from a self-help book such as this one are encouraged to ignore the errors and read it anyway.

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