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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2271 KP) rated Death on the Grand Canal in Books

Aug 14, 2023 (Updated Aug 14, 2023)  
Death on the Grand Canal
Death on the Grand Canal
M. A. Monnin | 2023 | Mystery
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Stefanie’s First Official Assignment is Murder
Stefanie Adams has her first official assignment in her new job recovering stolen art for Interpol. She and Thomas Burkhardt are trying to recover the Borgia Peacock, a pendant that was stolen over 100 years ago. Stefanie has gotten an invitation from the countess selling it, but when they show up at the countess’s palazzo in Venice, they discover they have more competition than they originally thought they would. One of their competition in a notorious fence, but then he is murdered. Will Stefanie figure out what happened and still get the pendant?

The book took a little bit of time to get going, playing tourist on the way to the mystery. But once the mystery started, the book was strong with lots of secrets and twists to keep Stefanie and Thomas from their objective. I did find their personal sub-plot a mixed bag. At times I felt for Stefanie, and at others I was frustrated by her lack of faith in Thomas. On the whole, I liked both characters, however, and it was good to spend time with them again. The rest of the cast come alive as the book progresses and we learn what they are hiding. I’ve long wanted to visit Venice, and this book made me want to visit even more. If you want a good mystery with an international flair, you’ll be glad you picked up this book.
  
The Art of French Kissing
The Art of French Kissing
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This is one of those perfect love/hate relationships that is believable and fun to read. Carter and Reid are at each other throats from the beginning and the way the relationship works out is swoon worthy. The competition isn't all it seems and the ending is perfect. I could not ask for a better contemporary food loving romance.
The only thing that would make this book better is a recipe guide so I can cook the food because it all sounds fantastic and I am hungry after reading this!
Last thing I want to throw in this; thank you for all of the nerdy references they were perfect and my fangirl heart enjoyed it immensely!
  
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Mark Halpern (153 KP) rated Toy Story (1995) in Movies

Jan 22, 2018 (Updated Jan 22, 2018)  
Toy Story (1995)
Toy Story (1995)
1995 | Animation, Comedy, Family
you got a fiend in me
What really happens when we aren't playing with our toys when we are out. In this Pixar movie they come to life and live among each other and are like a family. Woody is the head toy and Andy's favorite but, when a brand new toy gets given to Andy for his birthday is there a new king of the castle. Toys are always evolving and just like the new hot girl transferring to a new school and taking over the roost from the current popular one there is competition for top dog. Will Andy's toys get along or does one get discarded for newer additions.
  
Hayley Snow has gotten roped into being a judge on a search for the top chef of Key West. However, when one of the judges is murdered after the first round, she begins to wonder if she’s in danger. Is someone determined enough to win to make sure the judges will vote for them?

The reality competition actually slows the plot down a little at times, but I still enjoyed this book. The very colorful assortment of characters kept me entertained, and I loved getting to see more of Hayley’s housemate, Miss Gloria.

Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/09/book-review-topped-chef-by-lucy.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
  
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Rebecca Billcliff (2409 KP) rated Stranger Things in TV

Dec 7, 2019 (Updated Feb 11, 2020)  
Stranger Things
Stranger Things
2016 | Sci-Fi
So much nostalgia 🤤 (0 more)
Epic Series
Three seasons in, and I am still enjoying it. There is a lot of intrigue around Eleven, and the Upside down. Though we are still waiting for season 2's side quest in the city to pay off, there are plenty of rewards for regular viewers.
With its great casting, epic cinematography, and all the 80s throwbacks, it's a great for all.
Just try and dislike those kids, I dare you.
It is tense, fun and witty, with some high stakes and great plot twists. Well worth a watch.
Thanks to a Smashbomb competition win, I now have a Demigorgan Funko Pop for my collection.
Almost as creepy as the real thing.