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Hazel (1853 KP) rated The Paris Secret in Books
Dec 17, 2018
<i>I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
The Paris Secret</i> is Karen Swan’s latest contemporary novel of light mystery, surprises and a hint of romance. A rich family man in France has recently learnt of an abandoned apartment belonging to his long-deceased father. What was even more astonishing was the discovery that the place is stacked top to bottom with famous artwork. Flora Sykes, a British Fine Art Agent, is hired to tell the family more about their newfound possessions.
Although Flora comes from a wealthy family, the opulence of the Vermeil family is overwhelming. Despite the initial welcoming, Flora is disconcerted by the behaviour of their rotten daughter, Natascha, and terse yet handsome son, Xavier. Feeling like she is already unwanted, things get worse after her research exposes a devastating secret about the family’s history. Fearing she is to blame for the Vermeil’s downfall, Flora tries to focus on her work, but her confusing feelings towards Xavier are driving her to distraction.
For art lovers, <i>The Paris Secret</i> will hold great appeal. A vast amount of research has gone into the novel to be able to include such detail about famous painters, artwork, auctions and much more. While the story primarily focuses on said topic, there is also the added touch of romance developing in the latter stages as well as a continuous theme of brotherly sisterly bonds.
A real-life scenario in which a Paris apartment was discovered after being shut up since the Second World War inspired Karen Swan to write this enthralling story. Using this as the bare bones, Swan tried to imagine what the discovery would have been like for the family, how it would alter their futures, and most importantly what it would change about the knowledge of their history. What emerges is a gripping book that emphasizes the importance of family, prejudices and the continued effects of past war.
In a way,<i> The Paris Secret</i> can be viewed as a piece of Chick Lit – it is about a twenty something woman who has never been in love. On the other hand, is there enough romance for it to sit comfortable under this heading? Perhaps not, but that helps to improve the overall storyline. The inevitable romance scenes do not detract from the Art History plot, thankfully limiting the amount of pages some readers may find uncomfortable.
In all honesty you will need to have a little interest, or enough knowledge of the fine art world to get the most out of this book. Although a leisurely read, <i>The Paris Secret</i> contains many highbrow topics and less of the unpretentious lovey-dovey stuff. Flora is an easy character to like and the narrative flows exceptionally well. Karen Swan is a worthy author to keep in mind when browsing for something to read.
The Paris Secret</i> is Karen Swan’s latest contemporary novel of light mystery, surprises and a hint of romance. A rich family man in France has recently learnt of an abandoned apartment belonging to his long-deceased father. What was even more astonishing was the discovery that the place is stacked top to bottom with famous artwork. Flora Sykes, a British Fine Art Agent, is hired to tell the family more about their newfound possessions.
Although Flora comes from a wealthy family, the opulence of the Vermeil family is overwhelming. Despite the initial welcoming, Flora is disconcerted by the behaviour of their rotten daughter, Natascha, and terse yet handsome son, Xavier. Feeling like she is already unwanted, things get worse after her research exposes a devastating secret about the family’s history. Fearing she is to blame for the Vermeil’s downfall, Flora tries to focus on her work, but her confusing feelings towards Xavier are driving her to distraction.
For art lovers, <i>The Paris Secret</i> will hold great appeal. A vast amount of research has gone into the novel to be able to include such detail about famous painters, artwork, auctions and much more. While the story primarily focuses on said topic, there is also the added touch of romance developing in the latter stages as well as a continuous theme of brotherly sisterly bonds.
A real-life scenario in which a Paris apartment was discovered after being shut up since the Second World War inspired Karen Swan to write this enthralling story. Using this as the bare bones, Swan tried to imagine what the discovery would have been like for the family, how it would alter their futures, and most importantly what it would change about the knowledge of their history. What emerges is a gripping book that emphasizes the importance of family, prejudices and the continued effects of past war.
In a way,<i> The Paris Secret</i> can be viewed as a piece of Chick Lit – it is about a twenty something woman who has never been in love. On the other hand, is there enough romance for it to sit comfortable under this heading? Perhaps not, but that helps to improve the overall storyline. The inevitable romance scenes do not detract from the Art History plot, thankfully limiting the amount of pages some readers may find uncomfortable.
In all honesty you will need to have a little interest, or enough knowledge of the fine art world to get the most out of this book. Although a leisurely read, <i>The Paris Secret</i> contains many highbrow topics and less of the unpretentious lovey-dovey stuff. Flora is an easy character to like and the narrative flows exceptionally well. Karen Swan is a worthy author to keep in mind when browsing for something to read.
Ivana A. | Diary of Difference (1171 KP) rated French Kissing in Books
Aug 3, 2020
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<b><i>"French Kissing" by Catherine Sanderson is one of those romance novels you enjoy for a few days and then forget how it ended. </i></b>
<b>Synopsis:</b>
Sally Marshall decided to try a French online dating site. This was after she leaves her long-term boyfriend and Lila's father when she discovers he was cheating on her. With his secretary. After six months of healing, Sally is now ready to find her perfect match.
However, online dating has its downside. Meeting weird and creepy men, having one-night stands and being judged that she is a mother. Sally has to go through self-discovery in her journey to happiness.
<b>My Thoughts:</b>
"French Kissing" was average. It is very well written, but it follows a plot that, to me, has been overused by many writers, especially in the romance genre. It becomes another drop of water in the sea.
Sally is a very normal character and easy to love. She is struggling with the online dating. She believes she is at a disadvantage due to being a mother and her journey will teach her that she just hasn't met the right person yet. I am not a mother, and I don't know how Sally must truly feel, but I can imagine this situation being a big burden to her. Also, considering how men behave in today's world, where they want as little responsibility as possible and they are very reluctant to date women that already have children - I can understand how difficult this is for Sally. On the same aspect, this means that this is not Sally's fault. There is always someone out there that will be able to love her just the way she is - daughter included.
I liked the fact that this book was set in France. It gave a nice charm to it. However, on many occasions, there are French sentences with no explanation nor translation. If you don't understand French, you should buy a dictionary when you are buying this book. I can imagine this being an issue for many readers.
To conclude - it was an okay read. It will fill up your time nicely and bring you on an adventure of self-discovery. Perhaps you will also be able to connect with Sally on a whole new level. I wouldn't say "French Kissing" is a favorite, nor would I recommend it on the spot if someone asked me. However, if you love romances set in France with a focus on online dating - this might be worth your time.
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<b><i>"French Kissing" by Catherine Sanderson is one of those romance novels you enjoy for a few days and then forget how it ended. </i></b>
<b>Synopsis:</b>
Sally Marshall decided to try a French online dating site. This was after she leaves her long-term boyfriend and Lila's father when she discovers he was cheating on her. With his secretary. After six months of healing, Sally is now ready to find her perfect match.
However, online dating has its downside. Meeting weird and creepy men, having one-night stands and being judged that she is a mother. Sally has to go through self-discovery in her journey to happiness.
<b>My Thoughts:</b>
"French Kissing" was average. It is very well written, but it follows a plot that, to me, has been overused by many writers, especially in the romance genre. It becomes another drop of water in the sea.
Sally is a very normal character and easy to love. She is struggling with the online dating. She believes she is at a disadvantage due to being a mother and her journey will teach her that she just hasn't met the right person yet. I am not a mother, and I don't know how Sally must truly feel, but I can imagine this situation being a big burden to her. Also, considering how men behave in today's world, where they want as little responsibility as possible and they are very reluctant to date women that already have children - I can understand how difficult this is for Sally. On the same aspect, this means that this is not Sally's fault. There is always someone out there that will be able to love her just the way she is - daughter included.
I liked the fact that this book was set in France. It gave a nice charm to it. However, on many occasions, there are French sentences with no explanation nor translation. If you don't understand French, you should buy a dictionary when you are buying this book. I can imagine this being an issue for many readers.
To conclude - it was an okay read. It will fill up your time nicely and bring you on an adventure of self-discovery. Perhaps you will also be able to connect with Sally on a whole new level. I wouldn't say "French Kissing" is a favorite, nor would I recommend it on the spot if someone asked me. However, if you love romances set in France with a focus on online dating - this might be worth your time.
Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated Curious Minds in Books
Apr 10, 2019
Riley Moon works for Blane-Grunwald, a financial company who only handles the most wealthy's accounts. Emerson Knight is one of those clients, and he is an eccentric as they come. When Riley is told to go to his house to discuss his accounts with him, she doesn't know what she is in for. Greeted with all kinds of creatures roaming the property, Emerson isn't thrilled to see Riley instead of Gunter his usual analyst. When Riley explains that Gunter is missing and she is here to take his place, Emerson enlists Riley's help to find Gunter and find out what is really going on at Blane-Grunwald.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This book was really interesting, and like true Janet Evanovich fashion, it wasn't short on humor either.
Emerson and Riley discover that the gold being held by Blane-Grunwald is fake. When they make this discovery, they embark on a mission to find out where the gold is and how to get it back. Faced with obstacles all along the way and the Grunwald family with their high positions in the United States Government trying to stop the mission, Emerson and Riley won't stop until they get to the bottom of the issue. They both surprise each other with their determination and strength and together, nothing can bring them down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This book was really interesting, and like true Janet Evanovich fashion, it wasn't short on humor either.
Emerson and Riley discover that the gold being held by Blane-Grunwald is fake. When they make this discovery, they embark on a mission to find out where the gold is and how to get it back. Faced with obstacles all along the way and the Grunwald family with their high positions in the United States Government trying to stop the mission, Emerson and Riley won't stop until they get to the bottom of the issue. They both surprise each other with their determination and strength and together, nothing can bring them down.
Sassy Brit (97 KP) rated Say My Name in Books
Jun 5, 2019
Drawing on her impressive intellectual prowess, Allegra Huston introduces us to a spectacular cast, all each with their part to play.
This story goes beyond the love and friendship surface and digs deep into the sensual world of danger and excitement from which the main character, middle-aged Eve Armanton, blossoms. But this is no normal voyage of self-discovery, but an empowering awakening brought on by a much younger musician Micajah, and a mysterious, battered old violin. Through these Eve has a startling realisation that her life will never be the same again – with or without a man in her life.
The author has a very distinct writing style with a kind of musical rhythm of her own! What I thought was just going to be a basic love story with a happy ending, turned into an exciting, page-turning thrill.
Eve is buried under the difficulties of her married life and the longing to find who she really is. But how far is she prepared to go to discover her own true power?
I liked the connection (which I think was intentional) between the the shattered violin and Eve’s life. Both had seen better days. Both were lost and now found. But what is to become of them?
A stirring account of a broken wife slowly coming to terms with the reality of what is her life, one powerfully sensual beat at a time.
This story goes beyond the love and friendship surface and digs deep into the sensual world of danger and excitement from which the main character, middle-aged Eve Armanton, blossoms. But this is no normal voyage of self-discovery, but an empowering awakening brought on by a much younger musician Micajah, and a mysterious, battered old violin. Through these Eve has a startling realisation that her life will never be the same again – with or without a man in her life.
The author has a very distinct writing style with a kind of musical rhythm of her own! What I thought was just going to be a basic love story with a happy ending, turned into an exciting, page-turning thrill.
Eve is buried under the difficulties of her married life and the longing to find who she really is. But how far is she prepared to go to discover her own true power?
I liked the connection (which I think was intentional) between the the shattered violin and Eve’s life. Both had seen better days. Both were lost and now found. But what is to become of them?
A stirring account of a broken wife slowly coming to terms with the reality of what is her life, one powerfully sensual beat at a time.
Conehead (3 KP) rated Star Trek: Discovery in TV
Jul 9, 2018
New Trek
So I'm a huge Star trek fan. Wouldn't call myself a trekie but I did grow up watching TNG VOYAGER DS9 ENTERPRISE and for the newest addition DISCOVERY. Though not your typical star trek, I like how the producers put their own twist on it. I like the darkness of the series so far. Yeah I know star trek is about new life forms and what not but I like how we have war. There has always been a gap between Enterprise and TOS. Such as what happened during those times and how did the Federation finally come to be what it was by the time TOS happened. There have been many many many fan made films about the gap from Enterprise and TOS. The romulan war the Klingon war. Like what is the back story to all of it. Im just glad that someone took it upon themselves to finally tell us that story. The mirror universe such a popular side story to Star Trek. Love how they brought back character and ship thought dead and destroyed during the battle at the bianaries. Now for season two that's coming what more do we get. Speculation is we get more of section 31. I can't wait to see how they develop these stores as we get closer towards the TOS era.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated Dogged in Books
Oct 26, 2018
Joe and Tommy must Doggedly Track Down Another Killer
It starts with the discovery of a naked body in Camelback Mountain. The victim, a female, had been discovered not too far from the hiking path by some early morning hikers. The weirdest part is that all of the bones in her legs and arms had been broken before she died. Phoenix homicide detectives Joe Rodriguez and Tommy Flaherty are assigned to the case, but while they are still tracking down the victim's identity, another body is found. This one has the same broken bones, but it is several months older. Joe is finding himself distracted by his concerns over his new relationship with Bridgid, Tommy's cousin. Can he focus on the case long enough to solve it?
I was very pleasantly surprised earlier this year when I saw this book pop up. This is definitely a book that falls into the traditional part of the mystery spectrum, but it doesn't get much worse than what I teased already. The plot is strong and doesn't try to delve into the mind of the serial killer, just tries to catch the person, and we get a strong mystery as Joe and Tommy work to do that. I did feel the ending was a bit weak since it hit two of my pet peeves, but they were minor overall. The characters are absolutely wonderful, and it was fantastic to see them all again.
I was very pleasantly surprised earlier this year when I saw this book pop up. This is definitely a book that falls into the traditional part of the mystery spectrum, but it doesn't get much worse than what I teased already. The plot is strong and doesn't try to delve into the mind of the serial killer, just tries to catch the person, and we get a strong mystery as Joe and Tommy work to do that. I did feel the ending was a bit weak since it hit two of my pet peeves, but they were minor overall. The characters are absolutely wonderful, and it was fantastic to see them all again.
James Koppert (2698 KP) rated Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019) in Movies
Nov 12, 2019
Was great just not as good as the last
Homecoming was so much fun that, in a way, "Far From Home" had an almost impossible task. In the 10000000th reboot of the comic hero favourite, Marvel got it spot on, having this Spiderman be a geeky kid on a journey of self discovery, awkward in his neediness and unsure of his capabilities. Its created a vulnerable Spiderman that everyone can relate to and love and most importantly root for.
Far From Home is post 'Endgame' and sees Spidey thrown into the unwanted position of being one of the few Avengers around. Now he has to take on a ew threat where things are not all they seem to be but no spoilers here.
What lets this film down compared to its predecessor is there is a lack of surprises and character growth for Tom Holland to play with. However its still a lot of fun as we see him become night monkey and fight the forces of darkness once again, this time through various locations in Europe (I'm sure the writer just put some European cities on their wish list and wrote a movie around it just so they could stay).
Its still a lot of fun and loveable. I just want a little more but there is no way this franchise is stopping yet.
Far From Home is post 'Endgame' and sees Spidey thrown into the unwanted position of being one of the few Avengers around. Now he has to take on a ew threat where things are not all they seem to be but no spoilers here.
What lets this film down compared to its predecessor is there is a lack of surprises and character growth for Tom Holland to play with. However its still a lot of fun as we see him become night monkey and fight the forces of darkness once again, this time through various locations in Europe (I'm sure the writer just put some European cities on their wish list and wrote a movie around it just so they could stay).
Its still a lot of fun and loveable. I just want a little more but there is no way this franchise is stopping yet.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated Cobblered to Death in Books
Nov 27, 2019
Clobbered by Cherry Cobbler
Courtney Archer has become known to her fans from the TV cooking show, The Farmer’s Daughter. Just one catch – she is actually the daughter of a doctor from Chicago. She hates keeping this secret, but is even more worried when her secret is discovered. The man who makes the discovery is Mick, one of the contestants on The American Baking Battle, a new show that Courtney is co-hosting. Courtney isn’t the only one having issues with Mick. Still, Courtney doesn’t expect to find his dead body on the second day of filming. Worse yet, Mick was hit over the head with a pan of Courtney’s cherry cobbler. Who killed him?
This book started out well, and I was quickly hooked. The setting is a lot of fun, and the characters are wonderful. I was drawn to Courtney and wanted her to succeed. I enjoyed watching her friendship with another character grow, and her producer is a strong character as well. The plot started out strongly, setting up suspects and the victim before killing Mick off. Unfortunately, there weren’t enough suspects to sustain it, and the twists and clues were fewer than they needed to be in favor of time spent on the set of the baking show watching everything being filmed. I suspect the characters and setting will be strong enough to draw people to this new series, but I hope the plots get stronger as the series progresses.
This book started out well, and I was quickly hooked. The setting is a lot of fun, and the characters are wonderful. I was drawn to Courtney and wanted her to succeed. I enjoyed watching her friendship with another character grow, and her producer is a strong character as well. The plot started out strongly, setting up suspects and the victim before killing Mick off. Unfortunately, there weren’t enough suspects to sustain it, and the twists and clues were fewer than they needed to be in favor of time spent on the set of the baking show watching everything being filmed. I suspect the characters and setting will be strong enough to draw people to this new series, but I hope the plots get stronger as the series progresses.
Egg Head: Peekaboo Baby Fun
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Striding Bird - An inspirational tale for kids
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