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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2340 KP) rated Wreath Between the Lines in Books
Nov 21, 2018
Killer at Christmas
The town of Chrystal Cove, California is getting into the Christmas spirit, and Jenna Hart is busy with a bunch of Christmas themed events at the Cookbook Nook. Her life is more complicated by the fact that her sister and her family are visiting, and Jenna gets pulled into their drama. But things take a huge turn when her neighbor, Jake, comes over in a panic one night to report that a friend who had been staying with him has been murdered, trussed up with Christmas light and stabbed by a Christmas star. Who would want to kill a visitor to town? Or was Jake the intended target?
If you are looking for a cozy filled with Christmas spirit, you've come to the right place. This book is filled with Christmas. The mystery is a little weak since a couple of sub-plots crowd it out, but we do still get some twists before reaching a creative and fun climax. The series regulars are all here, and it is wonderful to catch up with them again. Once you've finished the book, you can keep the Christmas spirit with the many recipes for holiday goodies at the end.
If you are looking for a cozy filled with Christmas spirit, you've come to the right place. This book is filled with Christmas. The mystery is a little weak since a couple of sub-plots crowd it out, but we do still get some twists before reaching a creative and fun climax. The series regulars are all here, and it is wonderful to catch up with them again. Once you've finished the book, you can keep the Christmas spirit with the many recipes for holiday goodies at the end.

Rachel Maria Berney (114 KP) rated Duolingo in Apps
Dec 4, 2018
Learn a new language in a way that sticks
If you want to learn a new language, the Duolingo app should be your first stop. With simple lesson plans, from the alphabet to names, places and parts of speech, it guides you step by step on your journey. You can hear the language spoke, get the chance to practice spelling and when the microphone works you can practice speaking it. It keeps referring back to previous lesson plans, which helps you to transfer your learning to your ong term memory. It's also fun, you can join a club and get talking with others learning the same language, you can practice what your learing in your club too
The app works well, despite the microphone problem which isn't an issue for learing the language. Simple, easy to use and follow lesson plan. A good community and loads of languages available. Evem a couple of fictionale ones, like Klingon.
Whether you want to master a language, or just learn a few phrases for holiday, this app is the first step to immersing yourself in a language. Forget the rosetta stone, this will have you speaking and reading another language in no time.
The app works well, despite the microphone problem which isn't an issue for learing the language. Simple, easy to use and follow lesson plan. A good community and loads of languages available. Evem a couple of fictionale ones, like Klingon.
Whether you want to master a language, or just learn a few phrases for holiday, this app is the first step to immersing yourself in a language. Forget the rosetta stone, this will have you speaking and reading another language in no time.

Irene M (130 KP) rated Infographics for Kids in Books
Dec 7, 2018
I received this book from Toppsta to review
"Infographics help us to understand information, learn and remember it!" ... and this book has that in abundance.
My own first impressions included how wonderful bright and colourful this book was, and the great thick quality of the pages.
Every double-page infographic in the book has something interactive for the little ones to expand on, be it simple colouring in or a question to make them think, and so packed full of informative facts that even if you don't read from cover to cover and just open and point there will be something of interest.
I have two boys so needless to say the fact about a human poop weighing the same as two apples was MOST entertaining and I have a feeling it might get repeated often at school today.
My 8 year old had no problems reading thru the book, my 6 year old only needed help with one or two words, and both showed much glee at regurgitating their new found information with their Dad at the dinnertable even a couple of days after reading the book ... so they definitely did take in the information which is exactly what the cover says.
A great read for all ages.
"Infographics help us to understand information, learn and remember it!" ... and this book has that in abundance.
My own first impressions included how wonderful bright and colourful this book was, and the great thick quality of the pages.
Every double-page infographic in the book has something interactive for the little ones to expand on, be it simple colouring in or a question to make them think, and so packed full of informative facts that even if you don't read from cover to cover and just open and point there will be something of interest.
I have two boys so needless to say the fact about a human poop weighing the same as two apples was MOST entertaining and I have a feeling it might get repeated often at school today.
My 8 year old had no problems reading thru the book, my 6 year old only needed help with one or two words, and both showed much glee at regurgitating their new found information with their Dad at the dinnertable even a couple of days after reading the book ... so they definitely did take in the information which is exactly what the cover says.
A great read for all ages.

Carma (21 KP) rated The Last First Date in Books
Jun 17, 2019
The Last First Date by Maggie Wells
Maggie Wells is a new author to me. I read this as part of a 4 book collection through overdrive. The Last First Date was a cute very short novella. As with any other novella I read, well most of them anyway, I am left wanting. This one cut off a little sharper than most so I felt like I needed more answers than normal.
Overall it is a cute short story. Detective Langley Lang Sheppard finally has a day off and is having the worst first date of this life. Jessica Vickers is dealing with recent life setbacks and is just trying to get to the New Year to start over fresh. They each are just holding on to their pathetic lives until the clock strikes midnight. A chance stop at a local convenience store finds them in each others path and so it begins.
I wish it would have gone a couple more chapters to set up a little more of the story. There are some pretty comical sections that made me laugh out loud. I liked Maggie Wells writing style so I probably will give another story of hers a try (after getting through my TBR shelf first ha)
Maggie Wells is a new author to me. I read this as part of a 4 book collection through overdrive. The Last First Date was a cute very short novella. As with any other novella I read, well most of them anyway, I am left wanting. This one cut off a little sharper than most so I felt like I needed more answers than normal.
Overall it is a cute short story. Detective Langley Lang Sheppard finally has a day off and is having the worst first date of this life. Jessica Vickers is dealing with recent life setbacks and is just trying to get to the New Year to start over fresh. They each are just holding on to their pathetic lives until the clock strikes midnight. A chance stop at a local convenience store finds them in each others path and so it begins.
I wish it would have gone a couple more chapters to set up a little more of the story. There are some pretty comical sections that made me laugh out loud. I liked Maggie Wells writing style so I probably will give another story of hers a try (after getting through my TBR shelf first ha)

Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Just Friends - Single by Virginia To Vegas in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Virginia To Vegas (Derik Baker) is a singer-songwriter based in Toronto, Canada. Not too long ago, he released a lovely pop tune, entitled, “Just Friends”.
“Maybe, we can go get lost tonight. At least we know that we gave it a try. So why don’t we go out and get a drink in the West End? Smoke a cigarette and talk sh*t about exes. Take a couple of shots and see where the night ends. Stop pretending that we’re just friends.” – lyrics
‘Just Friends’ tells an interesting tale of two friends, a guy, and a girl. Apparently, the guy doesn’t want to be in the friend zone and wants to be more than just a friend to the woman he adores.
Later, he reminds her that one day in the back of a taxi she wanted to kiss him. But due to their friendship, she didn’t.
‘Just Friends’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and danceable instrumentation scented with an electro-pop fragrance.
After being discovered on YouTube, Virginia to Vegas signed to Wax Records in 2013. Since then, he has received critical acclaim and several platinum certifications.
In 2018, he expanded his reach internationally, co-writing the single “IDWK” with blackbear and DVBBS.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/virginia-to-vegas-just-friends/
“Maybe, we can go get lost tonight. At least we know that we gave it a try. So why don’t we go out and get a drink in the West End? Smoke a cigarette and talk sh*t about exes. Take a couple of shots and see where the night ends. Stop pretending that we’re just friends.” – lyrics
‘Just Friends’ tells an interesting tale of two friends, a guy, and a girl. Apparently, the guy doesn’t want to be in the friend zone and wants to be more than just a friend to the woman he adores.
Later, he reminds her that one day in the back of a taxi she wanted to kiss him. But due to their friendship, she didn’t.
‘Just Friends’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and danceable instrumentation scented with an electro-pop fragrance.
After being discovered on YouTube, Virginia to Vegas signed to Wax Records in 2013. Since then, he has received critical acclaim and several platinum certifications.
In 2018, he expanded his reach internationally, co-writing the single “IDWK” with blackbear and DVBBS.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/virginia-to-vegas-just-friends/

Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated The East End in Books
Jun 21, 2019
This book had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. So much happens in one small place over one weekend. Death, parties, hospital visits, gunshots, drugs, drinking. It's amazing.
Corey has recently graduated from high school. The past couple of summers he's helped his mom at the Sheffield's for a little extra cash. The first chance he gets, he is out of the Hamptons. He's been accepted to school upstate, but not sure if that is the path he is going to take. Sneaking around the houses of the wealthy has become a new hobby for Corey. He doesn't take anything, just does it for the thrill of not getting caught. But he's not expecting anyone at the Sheffield's and especially is not expecting to see the events unfold this night before Memorial Day weekend.
What I really liked about this book was that I didn't know which direction this story was going to go in. I didn't know if witnesses were going to turn up dead, as is so often the case when rich people are trying to get away with crimes, or if they were going to get caught this time. I guess you'll have to read it to find out.
Corey has recently graduated from high school. The past couple of summers he's helped his mom at the Sheffield's for a little extra cash. The first chance he gets, he is out of the Hamptons. He's been accepted to school upstate, but not sure if that is the path he is going to take. Sneaking around the houses of the wealthy has become a new hobby for Corey. He doesn't take anything, just does it for the thrill of not getting caught. But he's not expecting anyone at the Sheffield's and especially is not expecting to see the events unfold this night before Memorial Day weekend.
What I really liked about this book was that I didn't know which direction this story was going to go in. I didn't know if witnesses were going to turn up dead, as is so often the case when rich people are trying to get away with crimes, or if they were going to get caught this time. I guess you'll have to read it to find out.

Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated Stripped Bare in Books
Jun 21, 2019
Eli loves his little sister and he would do just about anything for her. So when she asks him to help her friend, Karis, fix up her bakery he is obliged to do the job. When Eli walks into the bakery, he sees the job is a lot more than he signed up for. But when he lays eyes on Karis, all thoughts about the work go out the window. He would do anything to help this pretty girl.
Thank you to Frankie Love and C.M. Seabrook for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I picked this book up at night before I went to bed. I thought I would read just a couple of chapters since I was exhausted and had a big day the next day. When I saw that it would only take me 45 minutes to read, I decided to just go for it. I think even if the book was 2 hours to read, I may have stayed up to read it.
This is a fast paced novel that goes from strangers to naked very quickly. If you're looking for a quick romance that will leave you hot and bothered, pick up this book right away.
Thank you to Frankie Love and C.M. Seabrook for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I picked this book up at night before I went to bed. I thought I would read just a couple of chapters since I was exhausted and had a big day the next day. When I saw that it would only take me 45 minutes to read, I decided to just go for it. I think even if the book was 2 hours to read, I may have stayed up to read it.
This is a fast paced novel that goes from strangers to naked very quickly. If you're looking for a quick romance that will leave you hot and bothered, pick up this book right away.

LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated the PlayStation 4 version of Crash Team Racing: Nitro Fueled in Video Games
Jun 24, 2019
I've spent a couple of afternoons now, playing this very shiny remake of the PS One classic, and I can safely say, I'm once again hooked.
It's another nostalgia fest, following on from the N Sane Trilogy, and it looks amazing, full of colour and impressive textures.
The gameplay itself is pretty identical to the original, and still just as challenging (I swear I used to be better at these games as a kid).
It's not just the original content we get here though, Activision and Beenox have added in content from the CTR sequels that followed in later years, bolstering Nitro-Fueled to a bulkier experience, alongside plenty of unlockable characters, and customisation items for your cart. There's also an in game store where you can buy various items with in game currency, but here's the best part - as it stands, you can only earn in game currency by playing the game! There's is no option to spend real money here, which is refreshing in today's gaming climate.
I'm already gunning for 100% completion on this one, and with an already-announced batch of FREE additional content incoming (including Spyro!), I get the feeling I'll be playing this one for a while.
It's another nostalgia fest, following on from the N Sane Trilogy, and it looks amazing, full of colour and impressive textures.
The gameplay itself is pretty identical to the original, and still just as challenging (I swear I used to be better at these games as a kid).
It's not just the original content we get here though, Activision and Beenox have added in content from the CTR sequels that followed in later years, bolstering Nitro-Fueled to a bulkier experience, alongside plenty of unlockable characters, and customisation items for your cart. There's also an in game store where you can buy various items with in game currency, but here's the best part - as it stands, you can only earn in game currency by playing the game! There's is no option to spend real money here, which is refreshing in today's gaming climate.
I'm already gunning for 100% completion on this one, and with an already-announced batch of FREE additional content incoming (including Spyro!), I get the feeling I'll be playing this one for a while.

Russ Troutt (291 KP) rated The Lighthouse (2019) in Movies
Oct 30, 2019
I steered me vessel to the theater last night and saw The Lighthouse. Not much I can say about the movie itself without giving spoilers, it's definitely one that can only be discussed between two people that have been stranded together for a couple of hours in a theater staring at the light from the projector viewing this film. Is it possible to love everything about a movie, but not really like the movie? Maybe I'm just going mad. The acting from Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson is some of the best you'll see this year, or any for that matter. The look and feel of the movie is as magical as the beauty and song of a siren on the rocky shore. To be honest, while giving praise to every aspect of it, I didn't feel like I actually liked the movie itself walking away from it. But with loving everything Robert Eggers cooked up with The Lighthouse and reflecting on my take away and interpretation of the story, it's one of my favorite movies of the year. This is why I love art so much; to really take a masterpiece like this in, to tear apart and pick at internally like a seagull, and then flatulate how I feel about it.

Merissa (12861 KP) rated Island Tales Vol. 1 (Island Tales #1-2) in Books
Jul 16, 2019
Island Tales Vol. 1 (Island Tales #1-2) by K.C. Wells
Two feel-good stories in one volume, both set in the gorgeous Isle of Wight, UK. Both of them are written extremely well, with emotions clearly showing, and reasons given for acting certain ways. The pacing is smooth, and the characters are well-rounded.
Out of the two, I preferred Waiting for a Prince. I loved how Mark and Sam became friends before lovers, and how Sam's history came to light. I was 'glad' to read about a woman abuser (although I know that sounds wrong!) It is something that happens all too often, and yet is not really spoken - or written - about.
I enjoyed September's Tide, but the whole business with Clark just annoyed me, especially when Michael got involved. And, to be honest, I still don't know why he did, or what he stood to gain by it. That's just me though.
A couple of great stories that are easy to read, and definitely recommended to read near the sea!
* 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!
Out of the two, I preferred Waiting for a Prince. I loved how Mark and Sam became friends before lovers, and how Sam's history came to light. I was 'glad' to read about a woman abuser (although I know that sounds wrong!) It is something that happens all too often, and yet is not really spoken - or written - about.
I enjoyed September's Tide, but the whole business with Clark just annoyed me, especially when Michael got involved. And, to be honest, I still don't know why he did, or what he stood to gain by it. That's just me though.
A couple of great stories that are easy to read, and definitely recommended to read near the sea!
* 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!