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Sarah (7798 KP) rated The Good Samaritan in Books
Apr 23, 2019
Not what I expected
I've read a couple of John Marrs' books now and enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to trying this one out as it has an intriguing premise. However it didnt turn out quite how I expected, and I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not.
The plot centres around Laura, a suicide helpline worker who finds victims to encourage and help plan their deaths. Laura is a nasty piece of work. It's been a long time since I've read a book with a protagonist that I've detested as much as Laura. She's horrible but in a good way, as you spend most of the book willing her to fail and get her comeuppance. The writing is very good and the other characters in this are also well developed. It's a gripping read and despite being fairly long, i struggled to put this one down.
The problem i found with this though, which I'm still a little uncertain about, is that the story unfolds in a way that I hadn't expected. Around a third of the way in, it switches courses and changes into something that although it isn't bad, it just wasn't expected. And the ending too is a little frustrating and not as satisfying as I would have liked. However if you want to read a book with a truly detestable main character that makes you want to scream (kind of in a good way), then this is definitely worth a read.
The plot centres around Laura, a suicide helpline worker who finds victims to encourage and help plan their deaths. Laura is a nasty piece of work. It's been a long time since I've read a book with a protagonist that I've detested as much as Laura. She's horrible but in a good way, as you spend most of the book willing her to fail and get her comeuppance. The writing is very good and the other characters in this are also well developed. It's a gripping read and despite being fairly long, i struggled to put this one down.
The problem i found with this though, which I'm still a little uncertain about, is that the story unfolds in a way that I hadn't expected. Around a third of the way in, it switches courses and changes into something that although it isn't bad, it just wasn't expected. And the ending too is a little frustrating and not as satisfying as I would have liked. However if you want to read a book with a truly detestable main character that makes you want to scream (kind of in a good way), then this is definitely worth a read.
Kyera (8 KP) rated Mockingjay in Books
Jan 31, 2018
A re-read of Mockingjay (and really the entire series) was long overdue. I haven't read the series since it came out and wanted to re=familiarize myself with it before watching the movie. I remember being Team Gale rather than Peeta (but that may have just been after the casting of Liam Hemsworth). Upon re-reading, I found myself not having a strong opinion about either suitor. Gale is much angrier than I recall him being, Peeta doesn't have much of an impression (after being jacked) and I just don't care what Katniss decides. That is certainly not how I felt in the first book. She becomes decidedly less relatable to me as the books progress. Hunger Games was definitely the strongest in the series and as a result, the finale felt like a bit of a letdown. The death toll was realistic, as they were embroiled in a war but not emotional. There were only a few deaths that I really felt, while the rest you could just immediately move on from. Perhaps that's terrible to say, but I believe they would have meant more if the reader was able to connect to the characters more. If you haven't read the series ye3t, what has taken you so long? Definitely read the series. The world building is wonderful, even if the ensemble cast can come across a bit flat at times. You will enjoy it if you're a fan of YA, dystopian fiction or want to read the books before you see their film adaptations.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Little Black Lies in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Catrin Quinn is still reeling from the loss of her two sons nearly three years ago. Her grief and anger is exacerbated by the fact that Catrin blames her (now former) best friend, Rachel, for their deaths. Catrin lives on the isolated community of the Falkland Islands, where people generally know one another - and everyone's business. When several children go missing over a short period of time, even the tight-knit community must admit that something is going on. Catrin finds herself drawn into the search for the latest missing boy, despite the fact that she just wishes to wallow in her grief as the third anniversary of her sons' death approaches.
This was a great book - I love all of Bolton's Lacey Flint novels, but this standalone is excellent, too. It's told from the varying viewpoints of three people - Catrin, her ex-best friend Rachel, and Catrin's acquaintance, Callum, a former solider who was once stationed on the island. Bolton goes back and forth over a short time period, slowly unraveling events, first from Catrin, then Callum, and finally Rachel. It's a mesmerizing approach, as we try to decipher how much to trust each of our narrators. During each character's turn, I found myself completely enthralled and wrapped up in their life. I eventually stayed up far too late the final night, frantically finishing the book to find out what happened. Bolton has created yet another fascinating mystery that will have you guessing the entire time.
(Note: I received an ARC from Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.)
This was a great book - I love all of Bolton's Lacey Flint novels, but this standalone is excellent, too. It's told from the varying viewpoints of three people - Catrin, her ex-best friend Rachel, and Catrin's acquaintance, Callum, a former solider who was once stationed on the island. Bolton goes back and forth over a short time period, slowly unraveling events, first from Catrin, then Callum, and finally Rachel. It's a mesmerizing approach, as we try to decipher how much to trust each of our narrators. During each character's turn, I found myself completely enthralled and wrapped up in their life. I eventually stayed up far too late the final night, frantically finishing the book to find out what happened. Bolton has created yet another fascinating mystery that will have you guessing the entire time.
(Note: I received an ARC from Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.)
Lindsay (1717 KP) rated Lights Out in Books
Feb 15, 2018 (Updated Apr 9, 2019)
This book is quite good. I enjoyed the writing from the author. It starts out with Paul having dreams of someone with green glowing eyes. We learn a little more about Paul Holten's job or profession. We get to learn about Aaron a little bit. Paul is handed a list and envelope after Paul's girlfriend Kelly leaves him.
Paul then his given a little boy named "Ethan". Things start to get quite more interesting once he left with Ethan. The action and adventures starts up after a few days when Aaron comes knocking on his door. Paul decides he wants to run,
Once on the road with Ethan. The story get more surprising and exciting. There are twists and turns in the book. It seems every time Paul turns around someone is chasing him. Aaron's words "your dead man". Though all that come after Paul seem to wonder if he going die to them. I do not want to giveaway anything that would be having trying to guess what happening. I am not going to spoil it for you or anyone that wants find out how it ends. Who is after Paul? Who is after both Paul and Ethan? Doe Paul and Ethan survive the death sentence that on his head? Who following Paul and Ethan? Can Paul save Ethan life or his own? You will need to read to find out. I advise that those that read this book should be warn that there is lots of deaths. I think is book is best for readers that are 13+ or older.
Paul then his given a little boy named "Ethan". Things start to get quite more interesting once he left with Ethan. The action and adventures starts up after a few days when Aaron comes knocking on his door. Paul decides he wants to run,
Once on the road with Ethan. The story get more surprising and exciting. There are twists and turns in the book. It seems every time Paul turns around someone is chasing him. Aaron's words "your dead man". Though all that come after Paul seem to wonder if he going die to them. I do not want to giveaway anything that would be having trying to guess what happening. I am not going to spoil it for you or anyone that wants find out how it ends. Who is after Paul? Who is after both Paul and Ethan? Doe Paul and Ethan survive the death sentence that on his head? Who following Paul and Ethan? Can Paul save Ethan life or his own? You will need to read to find out. I advise that those that read this book should be warn that there is lots of deaths. I think is book is best for readers that are 13+ or older.
Gail (4 KP) rated Second Chance with a Highlander in Books
Jun 4, 2018
(spoiler alert)
I love historical romance books. To read about a time different than today. Sarah Mitchell delivered that in this book. When you thought it was over she through you a twist you could never guess. I was afraid she would leave me hanging but she delivered and ending I would’ve never dreamed of and I loved it. A lot of people can guess what happens but not with this book. It’s unique and it keeps you in the moment. Great Job!
To get a second chance at anything is a blessing to get a second chance at life is true miracle. That is what Kate received. After going through life hoping to see her next birthday Kate can feel this is the end. She only finds comfort in her dreams where she is loved by a mysterious man.
I loved how the characters are written. Kate is strong minded and she doesn’t take crap and stands up for what she feels is right. Thrust back in time to lands unknown she is wounded and on deaths door again when her dream man is there to save her. She doesn’t bow down to his commands or agree to his every word. She is fierce.
Connor is Scottish and wears a kilt. That’s all that needs to be said. From jump he felt protective of Kate. He showed so much loyalty. He gave up things that other lairds wouldn’t. I could visualize him and his voice. You need a sip of Connor juice you wont regret it.
I love historical romance books. To read about a time different than today. Sarah Mitchell delivered that in this book. When you thought it was over she through you a twist you could never guess. I was afraid she would leave me hanging but she delivered and ending I would’ve never dreamed of and I loved it. A lot of people can guess what happens but not with this book. It’s unique and it keeps you in the moment. Great Job!
To get a second chance at anything is a blessing to get a second chance at life is true miracle. That is what Kate received. After going through life hoping to see her next birthday Kate can feel this is the end. She only finds comfort in her dreams where she is loved by a mysterious man.
I loved how the characters are written. Kate is strong minded and she doesn’t take crap and stands up for what she feels is right. Thrust back in time to lands unknown she is wounded and on deaths door again when her dream man is there to save her. She doesn’t bow down to his commands or agree to his every word. She is fierce.
Connor is Scottish and wears a kilt. That’s all that needs to be said. From jump he felt protective of Kate. He showed so much loyalty. He gave up things that other lairds wouldn’t. I could visualize him and his voice. You need a sip of Connor juice you wont regret it.
ClareR (5674 KP) rated The Great Believers in Books
Aug 27, 2018
A truly touching depiction of the AIDS epidemic.
I loved this, really loved it. It’s one of those books where you turn the last page and there’s that empty feeling, knowing that there’s no more of it to read.
There are two timelines: the mid-1980s and the emergence and devastation of the AIDS epidemic amongst a group of gay friends; 2015, and one of the characters from the 1980s is travelling to Paris to try and find her estranged daughter. She meets up with one of the characters who was also in Chicago in the 80s.
This is such a heart breaking story, particularly the earlier timeline. The panic, disbelief and sorrow of the men as they and their friends contract AIDS (such was the speed of their deaths after they found out they had the virus, I can’t remember there being any mention of HIV) was described so well, and Fiona, who is in both timelines, was there for those who needed her starting with her own brother. That seemed like such a huge responsibility to me, and she’s such a strong character: we do see the repercussions of those years though, in 2015.
This is definitely a book to read with a box of tissues to hand, but it’s worth every tear. I can see this being one of my favourite books of the year.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read this. And yes, it’s a completely honest review!
There are two timelines: the mid-1980s and the emergence and devastation of the AIDS epidemic amongst a group of gay friends; 2015, and one of the characters from the 1980s is travelling to Paris to try and find her estranged daughter. She meets up with one of the characters who was also in Chicago in the 80s.
This is such a heart breaking story, particularly the earlier timeline. The panic, disbelief and sorrow of the men as they and their friends contract AIDS (such was the speed of their deaths after they found out they had the virus, I can’t remember there being any mention of HIV) was described so well, and Fiona, who is in both timelines, was there for those who needed her starting with her own brother. That seemed like such a huge responsibility to me, and she’s such a strong character: we do see the repercussions of those years though, in 2015.
This is definitely a book to read with a box of tissues to hand, but it’s worth every tear. I can see this being one of my favourite books of the year.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read this. And yes, it’s a completely honest review!
LeftSideCut (3778 KP) rated Final Destination (2000) in Movies
Aug 10, 2019 (Updated Oct 25, 2019)
Final Destination is certainly a product of it's time. Releasing in the year 2000, it arrived amidst a wave of popular teen movies such as such as American Pie, Dude Where's My Car etc.
FD plays out like one of those films, but with gory death scenes thrown in - it's a winning formula that saw it perform nicely at the box office.
The premise is nice and simple - the main character (in this case, Alex Browning) experiences a premonition of an imminent horrible accident. He manages to avoid said accident, along with a handful of others, thus cheating death.
As the movie progresses, death comes for the survivors one by one, in ridiculously grisly ways as they desperately try to figure out how to escape deaths grip.
There are several reasons why I really don't mind Final Destination. For a start, it's nice to have a horror movie where the villain is a almost a force of nature, rather than a physical boogeyman.
It makes for some pretty inventive death scenes.
I also enjoyed just how silly it is. There are some corny one liners whilst you sit there in anticipation of what ridiculous thing is going to happen next. It's pure popcorn horror.
It's not particularly scary, and even though it has its moments, it's a pretty average watch.
It's certainly not deserving of standing side by side with the big boys of horror, but you could also do a lot worse.
Also it's got Tony Todd in it, and just who doesn't love that scary MF.
FD plays out like one of those films, but with gory death scenes thrown in - it's a winning formula that saw it perform nicely at the box office.
The premise is nice and simple - the main character (in this case, Alex Browning) experiences a premonition of an imminent horrible accident. He manages to avoid said accident, along with a handful of others, thus cheating death.
As the movie progresses, death comes for the survivors one by one, in ridiculously grisly ways as they desperately try to figure out how to escape deaths grip.
There are several reasons why I really don't mind Final Destination. For a start, it's nice to have a horror movie where the villain is a almost a force of nature, rather than a physical boogeyman.
It makes for some pretty inventive death scenes.
I also enjoyed just how silly it is. There are some corny one liners whilst you sit there in anticipation of what ridiculous thing is going to happen next. It's pure popcorn horror.
It's not particularly scary, and even though it has its moments, it's a pretty average watch.
It's certainly not deserving of standing side by side with the big boys of horror, but you could also do a lot worse.
Also it's got Tony Todd in it, and just who doesn't love that scary MF.
Scott Tostik (389 KP) rated 1408 (2007) in Movies
Jan 20, 2020
The original story (1 more)
John Cusack is a fucking God
John.... Sam.... Stephen.... What could go wrong??
Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages... Well... Not all... Kids should definitely not watch this one.
John Cusack stars as a writer who specializes in debunking alleged haunted locations.
He heads into the city to stay at the famed Dolphin Hotel. One room has had more deaths in it since the place cracked its doors nearly 100 years before.
The writer heads in with a skeptics attitude. But within minutes his attitude changes. And so does the viewers.
Sam Jackson is phenomenal as the manager of the hotel... All but climbs inside Cusacks head and fills him full of personal doubt and failure.
What follows is one helluva roller coaster ride that takes you from the past to the present to all points in between.
And just when you think you have it figured out... The room turns on you and tries to swallow your soul whole.
King left an easy road map to follow for a successful film. And the crew took the ball and ran through the defense for the easy score.
A good little film that leaves you impressed and amazed... All be it a little bored during the second act. But the climax is worth the payoff.
Talk about your mind fucking psychology damaging portions of the ending.
Good job ladies and gentlemen... You left me sasified
John Cusack stars as a writer who specializes in debunking alleged haunted locations.
He heads into the city to stay at the famed Dolphin Hotel. One room has had more deaths in it since the place cracked its doors nearly 100 years before.
The writer heads in with a skeptics attitude. But within minutes his attitude changes. And so does the viewers.
Sam Jackson is phenomenal as the manager of the hotel... All but climbs inside Cusacks head and fills him full of personal doubt and failure.
What follows is one helluva roller coaster ride that takes you from the past to the present to all points in between.
And just when you think you have it figured out... The room turns on you and tries to swallow your soul whole.
King left an easy road map to follow for a successful film. And the crew took the ball and ran through the defense for the easy score.
A good little film that leaves you impressed and amazed... All be it a little bored during the second act. But the climax is worth the payoff.
Talk about your mind fucking psychology damaging portions of the ending.
Good job ladies and gentlemen... You left me sasified
The Unsubstantial Air
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Poilu: The World War I Notebooks of Corporal Louis Barthas, Barrelmaker, 1914-1918
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