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Rachel King (13 KP) rated The Silent Governess in Books
Feb 11, 2019
Even though this book was a bit longer than I am generally used to, I didn't notice the length as the chapters were quite manageable and the plot had me guessing and speculating over what would happen next. The book reminded me of Jane Eyre, which I still have yet to finish, but with more modern language. I found it interesting how well the Christian elements were woven into the plot - dare I use the word tastefully. I've read books in which the use of Christian influence feels stilted and awkward, almost as if it were added in as an afterthought to appeal to a certain audience. This does not feel that way, this feels genuine and sincere, such as when Olivia does not feel she is following the path God wants for her and her father's remorse over his alcoholism. All of the characters were well-defined and the loose ends of each of their subplots were resolved by the end of the text very satisfactorily. I also found the "silent" theme entertaining in how it played a part throughout the text, and the various ways that it popped up, whether for humor or for a more serious note. While I likely would not have selected this text for my reading pleasure if it were not offered to me to review, I am glad that I was given the opportunity to read it, as I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent within its pages.
Sarah (126 KP) rated The Sinner - Season 1 in TV
Feb 18, 2019
Good - but ultimately dissatisfying
It's hard to pinpoint exactly what made this into an OK, but not great, series.
The storyline was certainly compelling - a seemingly random and mindless act of violence committed by an outwardly "normal" wife and mother, and one man's mission to find out what was truly behind it.
However, it just lacked something.
I couldn't bring myself to feel for Cora, the female lead played by Jessica Biel. The character had nothing about her - or her entire family, for that matter - that made me want to empathise with her and I didn't feel vested in the outcome for any of them.
The story seemed to drag on and on, with certain elements just going nowhere.
Bill Pullman's character clearly has something more going on, but that's never really truly explained or delved into in any great detail to show us why he is the way he is.
The ending was a complete letdown.
The series felt like it had so much potential, but was marred by the fact that the writing was all over the place. Much of the storyline was presented in the form of flashbacks - which can often (as was the case here) be annoying if not done incredibly well - and so much of the characterisation was superficial. Ultimately, the whole thing was rather unsatisfying, and left me feeling "so what?".
But, that didn't stop me from watching Series 2...
The storyline was certainly compelling - a seemingly random and mindless act of violence committed by an outwardly "normal" wife and mother, and one man's mission to find out what was truly behind it.
However, it just lacked something.
I couldn't bring myself to feel for Cora, the female lead played by Jessica Biel. The character had nothing about her - or her entire family, for that matter - that made me want to empathise with her and I didn't feel vested in the outcome for any of them.
The story seemed to drag on and on, with certain elements just going nowhere.
Bill Pullman's character clearly has something more going on, but that's never really truly explained or delved into in any great detail to show us why he is the way he is.
The ending was a complete letdown.
The series felt like it had so much potential, but was marred by the fact that the writing was all over the place. Much of the storyline was presented in the form of flashbacks - which can often (as was the case here) be annoying if not done incredibly well - and so much of the characterisation was superficial. Ultimately, the whole thing was rather unsatisfying, and left me feeling "so what?".
But, that didn't stop me from watching Series 2...
RəX Regent (349 KP) rated L.A. Confidential (1997) in Movies
Feb 19, 2019
A masterpiece, if not THE masterpiece of modern cinema.
A film which understands exactly what it is, what it’s doing and what it’s about and plays out with pace to resolve what is certainly on of the most complex detective stories the multiplex’s have seen in a long while.
The story is built in solid layers, exposing its audience to every clue, with time to digest them, without falling back on the cack-handed cliché of holding back that vital clue to end in order to maintain its twist. This movie had taken its plot, cut it up the pieces and shuffled them about as to confuse the eye, but in the end, it’s all there for the taking. Well acted, directed and supported by a perfectly balanced score by the late Jerry Goldsmith, along with first-rate editing, sound design and cinematography, this is a pleasure to watch, every time.
This is a true classic, that is bathed in the noir which in it is set, pretending at nothing, feeling not like a period piece nor modern, this is timeless in recreation of the 1950′s. Even its gruesome elements don’t feel overplayed, and I’m still always surprised to this day when I think that it is an 18.
All in all, this is the benchmark of modern film making, ticking every box perfectly. A fantastic film, with a first-rate native to drive it. Every filmmaker should see this and learn…
The story is built in solid layers, exposing its audience to every clue, with time to digest them, without falling back on the cack-handed cliché of holding back that vital clue to end in order to maintain its twist. This movie had taken its plot, cut it up the pieces and shuffled them about as to confuse the eye, but in the end, it’s all there for the taking. Well acted, directed and supported by a perfectly balanced score by the late Jerry Goldsmith, along with first-rate editing, sound design and cinematography, this is a pleasure to watch, every time.
This is a true classic, that is bathed in the noir which in it is set, pretending at nothing, feeling not like a period piece nor modern, this is timeless in recreation of the 1950′s. Even its gruesome elements don’t feel overplayed, and I’m still always surprised to this day when I think that it is an 18.
All in all, this is the benchmark of modern film making, ticking every box perfectly. A fantastic film, with a first-rate native to drive it. Every filmmaker should see this and learn…
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated My Daughter's Legacy (Cousins of the Dove #3) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
I love these two authors and their work, and I was excited to see where this book went. And honestly, while I loved that these authors came together and created a captivating story, I was a little lost in some of the areas of the story, so I'll definitely be going back to read the first two in the series.
That said, these characters, both present day, and historical, are beautifully chiseled. Told between two points of view, the authors take the reader on a whirlwind ride through history and contemporary times. I loved visiting Richmond during the Civil War. Historical eras are my favorite! Nicole and Therese quickly swept me into the heart of the story and I felt both of their emotions like they were my own!
Despite not reading book 1 and 2 and occasionally struggling to follow the story line, this conclusional book is definitely worth 4 stars. The writing styles of these two authors are beautiful, and mysterious and historical elements are awesome. This book is filled with emotions, thought provoking story lines, family legacies, and Godly messages of faith, trust and hope. I definitely suggest you get this book if you've read the first two! It will steal you away to another place in time and keep you up long into the night.<a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/13819-revision-v1/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
That said, these characters, both present day, and historical, are beautifully chiseled. Told between two points of view, the authors take the reader on a whirlwind ride through history and contemporary times. I loved visiting Richmond during the Civil War. Historical eras are my favorite! Nicole and Therese quickly swept me into the heart of the story and I felt both of their emotions like they were my own!
Despite not reading book 1 and 2 and occasionally struggling to follow the story line, this conclusional book is definitely worth 4 stars. The writing styles of these two authors are beautiful, and mysterious and historical elements are awesome. This book is filled with emotions, thought provoking story lines, family legacies, and Godly messages of faith, trust and hope. I definitely suggest you get this book if you've read the first two! It will steal you away to another place in time and keep you up long into the night.<a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/13819-revision-v1/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Merissa (13780 KP) rated Mending the Rift Box Set in Books
Mar 8, 2019
Mending the Rift Box Set by Valentina Heart
Mending the Rift Box Set is three stories in one. I'm actually really glad I read them together as they made for one nice-sized book that way. We meet Rin, an isolated and pretty much useless prince, who has been bargained away to become another King's property. Rin shows he has a backbone by insisting he becomes his spouse. Merin is the king and trying his best to not just be the 'conqueror'. Together, they find more than they expected in each other.
I thoroughly enjoyed this box set. It was filled with fantasy elements of magic and mpreg, plus sadness and hope. The characters develop nicely throughout the three novellas, and I loved how each land was described. Rin is a little firecracker when provoked, which Merin seemed to enjoy doing! Rin and Merin are a great couple, and I only hope this series continues. I would love to know how Ori gets on, plus the others, with plenty of R/M action too.
With no obvious editing or grammatical errors, this book was a satisfying read that ticked my boxes. For a light, entertaining #M_M read, then I have no hesitation in recommending this.
* 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!
I thoroughly enjoyed this box set. It was filled with fantasy elements of magic and mpreg, plus sadness and hope. The characters develop nicely throughout the three novellas, and I loved how each land was described. Rin is a little firecracker when provoked, which Merin seemed to enjoy doing! Rin and Merin are a great couple, and I only hope this series continues. I would love to know how Ori gets on, plus the others, with plenty of R/M action too.
With no obvious editing or grammatical errors, this book was a satisfying read that ticked my boxes. For a light, entertaining #M_M read, then I have no hesitation in recommending this.
* 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!
Derrik Osborn (5 KP) rated the PlayStation 3 version of Tomb Raider in Video Games
May 2, 2019
I have always been a huge fan of the Tomb Raider games since the first one in '95. I had high hopes for this game as the modern reboot and they were exceeded. The gameplay, story, and just overall fun of this game made it my favorite game of 2013. The multiplayer was even pretty fun. Much like the Uncharted multiplayer but less focus on action and more on stealth. Throughout the story, you will feel for Lara as she fights her way through overwhelming obstacles. She is the overcomer everybody wants to be.
The rpg elements of this game are very well placed. The level design has a good balance of linear and open world. Puzzles are cleverly thought out (something nobody seems to be able to figure out but creators of tomb raider games). Secrets are everywhere and pretty rewarding.
This is just all around a very well done game. They had a lot to overcome with the success of the Uncharted series but they really did their own thing and proved that Lara Croft is still the better Tomb Raider. The only complaint I have is that the multiplayer seems like they threw it together at the end to try to be like Uncharted. It was still pretty good and fun and somewhat unique but I think unnecessary. It did add longevity to the game. If you have not played this game, you are missing out!
The rpg elements of this game are very well placed. The level design has a good balance of linear and open world. Puzzles are cleverly thought out (something nobody seems to be able to figure out but creators of tomb raider games). Secrets are everywhere and pretty rewarding.
This is just all around a very well done game. They had a lot to overcome with the success of the Uncharted series but they really did their own thing and proved that Lara Croft is still the better Tomb Raider. The only complaint I have is that the multiplayer seems like they threw it together at the end to try to be like Uncharted. It was still pretty good and fun and somewhat unique but I think unnecessary. It did add longevity to the game. If you have not played this game, you are missing out!
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Between Us by Hayden James in Music
Jun 6, 2019 (Updated Jun 6, 2019)
Hayden James is a producer and Naations is an LA-based Australian duo. Not too long ago, they released a super-hot dance tune, entitled, “Nowhere to Go”.
The retro-filmstrip footage follows the empowering Venice-based all-women skate crew, GRLSWIRL, down the California Coast. Also, it follows them as they go from piling into a ’70s-style camper van to effortlessly skating the back-streets of Venice.
‘Nowhere To Go’ highlights Hayden and Nicky Night Time’s abilities to produce tracks which are club-ready and radio-friendly.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with dance, EDM, and electro-pop elements.
Also, it displays Nat Dunn’s powerful vocal performance and songwriting talents.
Naations are responsible for the huge Ibiza 2017 anthem, entitled, “Real Life”, with Gorgon City & Duke Dumont.
Not too long ago, they released their debut EP, entitled, “Teardrop”. The 6-track project serves as an introduction to the duo’s teardrop and star concept, which represents the light and the dark, which inspired their creative process.
They have performed at notable music venues on both sides of the Atlantic, including New York’s Output as well as Brixton Academy and XOYO in London. Also, they made their CRSSD Festival debut alongside Hayden, before heading back to Australia to support British songstress Anne-Marie on the AU leg of her tour.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/hayden-james-nowhere-to-go-naations/
The retro-filmstrip footage follows the empowering Venice-based all-women skate crew, GRLSWIRL, down the California Coast. Also, it follows them as they go from piling into a ’70s-style camper van to effortlessly skating the back-streets of Venice.
‘Nowhere To Go’ highlights Hayden and Nicky Night Time’s abilities to produce tracks which are club-ready and radio-friendly.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with dance, EDM, and electro-pop elements.
Also, it displays Nat Dunn’s powerful vocal performance and songwriting talents.
Naations are responsible for the huge Ibiza 2017 anthem, entitled, “Real Life”, with Gorgon City & Duke Dumont.
Not too long ago, they released their debut EP, entitled, “Teardrop”. The 6-track project serves as an introduction to the duo’s teardrop and star concept, which represents the light and the dark, which inspired their creative process.
They have performed at notable music venues on both sides of the Atlantic, including New York’s Output as well as Brixton Academy and XOYO in London. Also, they made their CRSSD Festival debut alongside Hayden, before heading back to Australia to support British songstress Anne-Marie on the AU leg of her tour.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/hayden-james-nowhere-to-go-naations/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated See the Stars - Single by Adrian Jean in Music
Jun 6, 2019
Adrian Jean is an up-and-coming LA-based singer-songwriter from Philadelphia. Not too long ago, he released an inspiring R&B tune, entitled, “See the Stars (Radio Edit)”.
Adrian Jean was homeless for two and a half years unbeknownst to his friends and colleagues. He lived in his automobile underneath the famed Hollywood sign and showered at a nearby gym.
His grandmother sensed that something was wrong and begged her grandson to come home to the East Coast. But Adrian was determined to stay in L.A. to fulfill his musical dream.
Therefore, he continued writing songs while sleeping in the backseat, staring down at the lights of Los Angeles. One of the songs that he wrote, entitled, “See The Stars”, found Adrian negotiating leaving home despite his grandmother’s disapproval.
‘See the Stars (Radio Edit)’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and vibey instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and urban-soul elements.
Adrian Jean has led a tumultuous life which has taken him from the poorest neighborhoods in Philadelphia to glamorous nightclubs, to homelessness, and redemption.
With an absent father and a mother who was more interested in drugs than raising her children, Adrian was forced to grow up very quickly.
By the age of 15, he was living on his own and working for a drug dealer. Later, he struggled with the pressures of being a bisexual man in a culture that didn’t accept such differences.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/adrian-jean-see-the-stars/
Adrian Jean was homeless for two and a half years unbeknownst to his friends and colleagues. He lived in his automobile underneath the famed Hollywood sign and showered at a nearby gym.
His grandmother sensed that something was wrong and begged her grandson to come home to the East Coast. But Adrian was determined to stay in L.A. to fulfill his musical dream.
Therefore, he continued writing songs while sleeping in the backseat, staring down at the lights of Los Angeles. One of the songs that he wrote, entitled, “See The Stars”, found Adrian negotiating leaving home despite his grandmother’s disapproval.
‘See the Stars (Radio Edit)’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and vibey instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and urban-soul elements.
Adrian Jean has led a tumultuous life which has taken him from the poorest neighborhoods in Philadelphia to glamorous nightclubs, to homelessness, and redemption.
With an absent father and a mother who was more interested in drugs than raising her children, Adrian was forced to grow up very quickly.
By the age of 15, he was living on his own and working for a drug dealer. Later, he struggled with the pressures of being a bisexual man in a culture that didn’t accept such differences.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/adrian-jean-see-the-stars/
Artemis is a story about a woman called Jazz Bashara. She's a porter who lives on the moon and smuggles contraband into the city before taking on a job that endangers not only her, but everyone in Artemis.
What did I think to it? It was okay. It was readable. It had a certain charm. Was it amazing? Unfortunately, for me, it fell a little flat and that's difficult for me to say as I love reading Andy's work.
I don't know whether it's because I'm a woman myself but it was quite clear that she'd been written by a man. There were certain elements about her which were reminiscent of Mark Watney and for me it didn't quite work.
That's not to say that I didn't enjoy the book, but it was slow-paced and didn't really pick up until half way through. It's not likely to be one I'd read again. It had big shoes to fill after The Martian, which remains a steady favorite for me.
I hope Andy isn't too discouraged by my review. I did like reading Artemis, it just wasn't groundbreaking for me. Still, I remain a fan of his work and hope he continues to write more novels.
Update: I read somewhere that Andy said Jazz was more like himself and had more of his personality than Mark did. Andy, if this is true please promise me (if you do this) to stop saying things like "Let's bang." 😛
What did I think to it? It was okay. It was readable. It had a certain charm. Was it amazing? Unfortunately, for me, it fell a little flat and that's difficult for me to say as I love reading Andy's work.
I don't know whether it's because I'm a woman myself but it was quite clear that she'd been written by a man. There were certain elements about her which were reminiscent of Mark Watney and for me it didn't quite work.
That's not to say that I didn't enjoy the book, but it was slow-paced and didn't really pick up until half way through. It's not likely to be one I'd read again. It had big shoes to fill after The Martian, which remains a steady favorite for me.
I hope Andy isn't too discouraged by my review. I did like reading Artemis, it just wasn't groundbreaking for me. Still, I remain a fan of his work and hope he continues to write more novels.
Update: I read somewhere that Andy said Jazz was more like himself and had more of his personality than Mark did. Andy, if this is true please promise me (if you do this) to stop saying things like "Let's bang." 😛
Strong female character (2 more)
Engaging story
Plot twists a plenty
Characters aren't fully developed (1 more)
World isn't fully explored/explained
The story follows the main character of Mare. A girl brought up in poverty where, in her society, she is considered lesser because of her red blood. The elite members of society have silver blood and a range of special abilities which are introduced throughout the book.
Through a series of events Mare ends up living in the Palace with the silver bloods working as an accomplice and spy with the newly formed Scarlet Guard (or the resistance to you and me).
The book sucked me in after a clichéd start to the novel (a fact which is openly mentioned on the front cover of the novel). Once it gets past the sections of the story you swear you've heard before, the plot twists and unexpected elements of the novel come out to play.
There's special powers, secret plots, war, love triangles. Everything you need to make a really exciting read.
My bug bear with this series was the lack of depth. I wanted to know more about the characters and their motivations, I wanted to know more about the world. I felt like too many big (and interesting) concepts were only mentioned in passing rather than given the attention they deserved.
Overall, I did really enjoy this story and I feel compelled to read the other novels in the series but it isn't a favourite.
Through a series of events Mare ends up living in the Palace with the silver bloods working as an accomplice and spy with the newly formed Scarlet Guard (or the resistance to you and me).
The book sucked me in after a clichéd start to the novel (a fact which is openly mentioned on the front cover of the novel). Once it gets past the sections of the story you swear you've heard before, the plot twists and unexpected elements of the novel come out to play.
There's special powers, secret plots, war, love triangles. Everything you need to make a really exciting read.
My bug bear with this series was the lack of depth. I wanted to know more about the characters and their motivations, I wanted to know more about the world. I felt like too many big (and interesting) concepts were only mentioned in passing rather than given the attention they deserved.
Overall, I did really enjoy this story and I feel compelled to read the other novels in the series but it isn't a favourite.