Search
Search results
Goddess in the Stacks (553 KP) rated The Winter of the Witch (Winternight Trilogy #3) in Books
Apr 1, 2019
The Winter of the Witch is the conclusion to the Winternight trilogy that began with The Bear and The Nightingale (enjoyable, but a little overhyped) and continued in The Girl in the Tower (fantastic). And ooooohhh what a conclusion it is! Vasya truly comes into her own in this book, dealing with the Russian fae with a confidence and conviction she didn't quite have before. The war between the twin brother spirits - the Bear and the Winter King - comes to a head, with Vasya in the middle. While that war is heating up, so is the war between the Tatars and the Russians, with its climax in a version of the real-world Battle of Kulikovo.
The whole of Vasya's family history is finally revealed, which has surprises of its own. Previously unknown family members appear, and Vasya is no longer as alone in her powers as she thought she was.
It can be very hard to review books in a series - especially concluding books - without spoiling things, so I'll just say this was an epic conclusion to the trilogy and was just as enchanting as the other books. I cried at more than one point in this book, because Vasya's heartbreak is so poignant. Gorgeous book. Beautiful use of Russian mythology. This entire trilogy is just brilliant.
You can read all my reviews at http://goddessinthestacks.com
The whole of Vasya's family history is finally revealed, which has surprises of its own. Previously unknown family members appear, and Vasya is no longer as alone in her powers as she thought she was.
It can be very hard to review books in a series - especially concluding books - without spoiling things, so I'll just say this was an epic conclusion to the trilogy and was just as enchanting as the other books. I cried at more than one point in this book, because Vasya's heartbreak is so poignant. Gorgeous book. Beautiful use of Russian mythology. This entire trilogy is just brilliant.
You can read all my reviews at http://goddessinthestacks.com
Midge (525 KP) rated The Sisters’ Secrets: Reen in Books
Apr 4, 2019
Well Worth A Read!
This is the second book in a series entitled ‘The Sisters’ Secrets.’ The first one is called ‘The Sisters’ Secrets: Rose’, which I haven’t read, though, whilst not ideal, I don’t think it matters that much if they are read out of sequence. It was still a great book for me and worked fine as a stand-alone read.
The Sisters’ Secrets: Reen has all the required ingredients that make a really fantastic story in its genre: from the mood and undercurrents to the good writing and the experience of love and friendship, not forgetting the feelings of hope and moving on from the past.
There is plenty of romance in this thought-provoking story and lots of lighter moments, but this is not lightweight paranormal dross. It examines issues around family and relationships as well as bereavement and loss.
I recommend this very engaging, if a little short, read to those with a fondness for the Romance and Women’s Fiction genres. There are more secrets to be revealed in the next book of the series ‘The Sisters’ Secrets: Pearl’ and I will be reading that book, too!
Thanks to NetGalley, HQ Digital and the author, Katlyn Duncan for my free ARC of The Sisters’ Secrets: Reen in exchange for an honest review.
#NetGalley #TheSistersSecretsReen
The Sisters’ Secrets: Reen has all the required ingredients that make a really fantastic story in its genre: from the mood and undercurrents to the good writing and the experience of love and friendship, not forgetting the feelings of hope and moving on from the past.
There is plenty of romance in this thought-provoking story and lots of lighter moments, but this is not lightweight paranormal dross. It examines issues around family and relationships as well as bereavement and loss.
I recommend this very engaging, if a little short, read to those with a fondness for the Romance and Women’s Fiction genres. There are more secrets to be revealed in the next book of the series ‘The Sisters’ Secrets: Pearl’ and I will be reading that book, too!
Thanks to NetGalley, HQ Digital and the author, Katlyn Duncan for my free ARC of The Sisters’ Secrets: Reen in exchange for an honest review.
#NetGalley #TheSistersSecretsReen
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018) in Movies
Apr 7, 2019
Better than the first
I’m one of the few people that really didn’t rate the first Sicario film. It wasn’t bad, but neither was it the brilliant film everyone rated it to be, so I went into the sequel with a certain amount of trepidation, but for the most part I was pleasantly surprised.
I’m afraid to say that Emily Blunt really isn’t missed. Instead we get much more of Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro, and you can’t complain about this as they’re both fantastic actors and put on brilliant performances in this. The film itself is very gritty, dark and brutal, right from the opening scenes with the suicide bombers to the gun battles and cartels scenes later on in the film. It’s very tense, and this is definitely not a feel good film at all but it’s still a gripping film to watch. The only thing that really let this down for me was the ending. Without spoilers, it’s partly ridiculous, partly a letdown as characters were going completely against the character they’d been portraying for 2 hours and also a blatant setup for a sequel. I’d have been a lot more satisfied with this film if it had been wrapped up better, but as sequels go, it’s impressive when one surpasses the original.
I’m afraid to say that Emily Blunt really isn’t missed. Instead we get much more of Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro, and you can’t complain about this as they’re both fantastic actors and put on brilliant performances in this. The film itself is very gritty, dark and brutal, right from the opening scenes with the suicide bombers to the gun battles and cartels scenes later on in the film. It’s very tense, and this is definitely not a feel good film at all but it’s still a gripping film to watch. The only thing that really let this down for me was the ending. Without spoilers, it’s partly ridiculous, partly a letdown as characters were going completely against the character they’d been portraying for 2 hours and also a blatant setup for a sequel. I’d have been a lot more satisfied with this film if it had been wrapped up better, but as sequels go, it’s impressive when one surpasses the original.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Need to Know in Books
May 22, 2019
A CIA analyst specializing in tracking down Russian sleeper agents in the US stumbles upon a file with photos of some of these. One of them turns out to be her husband. When she confronts him with the question 'how long have you been spying for Russia?' instead of denying it, he immediately replies, '22 years.'
This book makes you question how far you would go to protect your husband, your children and your life?
Even if you don’t typically enjoy spy or political thrillers, this is a fantastic read! It's hard for me to know what to say as I don't want to give anything away about the plot. Best way to describe is get in and buckle up for the thrill ride as more and more layers are peeled back and discovered.
We have here a strong female CIA Agent and a host of other well developed characters that add to the well developed boiling pot that is the plot.
Loads of twists and turns throughout. It kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat. I literally found myself shouting at my kindle at times!!
Highly recommend reading this.
* Thank you to Random House UK for my 'wish for it copy' for which I have given an honest review in exchange*
This book makes you question how far you would go to protect your husband, your children and your life?
Even if you don’t typically enjoy spy or political thrillers, this is a fantastic read! It's hard for me to know what to say as I don't want to give anything away about the plot. Best way to describe is get in and buckle up for the thrill ride as more and more layers are peeled back and discovered.
We have here a strong female CIA Agent and a host of other well developed characters that add to the well developed boiling pot that is the plot.
Loads of twists and turns throughout. It kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat. I literally found myself shouting at my kindle at times!!
Highly recommend reading this.
* Thank you to Random House UK for my 'wish for it copy' for which I have given an honest review in exchange*
Merissa (14068 KP) rated The Bringer of Wrath (The King & Alpha #2) in Books
Jun 3, 2019
The Bringer of Wrath (The King & Alpha #2) by A.E. Via
The Bringer of Wrath is the second book in The Alpha and the King series, and it absolutely needs to be read in order! If you don't, you won't get the full benefit from this book, including the nuances between the characters.
This book continues where book one, Prophesy, finishes. Bell is an alpha vampire, Lord High to the King, and is in no way subservient. Alek is an alpha too, and the Alpha Zenith's Second. Alek and Bell have some teething troubles as they try to find their balance. Alek also doesn't think he is good enough for Bell, as he is 'broken' - quite literally as it happens. Alek has two other distinct entities living with him - Wolf and Wrath. I loved how these were quite obviously different, and also how Bell coped with that.
This was a fantastic story that not only gives you Alek and Bell's story, but also gives you further insight into the overall story arc. Very well written, and 100% enjoyable, I have no hesitation in recommending this book, although that is on the proviso you read book one first!
* 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!
This book continues where book one, Prophesy, finishes. Bell is an alpha vampire, Lord High to the King, and is in no way subservient. Alek is an alpha too, and the Alpha Zenith's Second. Alek and Bell have some teething troubles as they try to find their balance. Alek also doesn't think he is good enough for Bell, as he is 'broken' - quite literally as it happens. Alek has two other distinct entities living with him - Wolf and Wrath. I loved how these were quite obviously different, and also how Bell coped with that.
This was a fantastic story that not only gives you Alek and Bell's story, but also gives you further insight into the overall story arc. Very well written, and 100% enjoyable, I have no hesitation in recommending this book, although that is on the proviso you read book one first!
* 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!
ArecRain (8 KP) rated A Gentleman's Position (Society of Gentlemen, #3) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I dont know what it is about this series that just gets me. This is the third novel I have read in the series and it just keeps getting better and better.
Historical erotica is something I can fully get behind. But a queer historical erotica?! Those dont exist! Well let me inform you that they, in fact, do, and they are amazing. Society of Gentleman by K.J. Charles is not just one of the best historical erotic series I have read, it is also one of the best series period! So far, this one has been my favorite. There is something about forbidden love that just makes it that much more delicious. A lord and his servant? Scandalous! And toe-curling
Again Charles brings her phenomenal character creating to the table and expertly weaves a story that lures you into its web and keeps you there till the very end. I love Charles writing and creativity.
There is really nothing else I feel I can say about this novel without giving it away. Are you looking for a fantastic historical romance featuring two men? Look no further! Seriously dont pass this series up.
Plus look at how beautiful that cover is...
I dont know what it is about this series that just gets me. This is the third novel I have read in the series and it just keeps getting better and better.
Historical erotica is something I can fully get behind. But a queer historical erotica?! Those dont exist! Well let me inform you that they, in fact, do, and they are amazing. Society of Gentleman by K.J. Charles is not just one of the best historical erotic series I have read, it is also one of the best series period! So far, this one has been my favorite. There is something about forbidden love that just makes it that much more delicious. A lord and his servant? Scandalous! And toe-curling
Again Charles brings her phenomenal character creating to the table and expertly weaves a story that lures you into its web and keeps you there till the very end. I love Charles writing and creativity.
There is really nothing else I feel I can say about this novel without giving it away. Are you looking for a fantastic historical romance featuring two men? Look no further! Seriously dont pass this series up.
Plus look at how beautiful that cover is...
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Black Panther (2018) in Movies
Feb 25, 2018
Different to other Marvel films (1 more)
Strong female characters
CGI (2 more)
Some under developed characters
Weak villain
Good but a little overrated
Considering the general praise for this film, I had been expecting great things and although for a Marvel origins film it's pretty good, I still found it a bit disappointing.
I like T'Challa as a main character and I love some of the strong female characters in this film. His sister especially is fantastic and brings some welcome humour too. This isn't your typical Marvel film, and feels like it has more meaning and depth, although this means the humour side is a little lacking. Its also good not to have this bogged down with other characters from the universe.
My problems were that it felt like it dragged a bit and I was almost getting bored. The CGI is very patchy in places to the point it gets distracting and despite some good characters, I feel a lot of others are very under developed, like Forest Whitaker and Daniel Kaluuya. Martin Freeman's character could have been removed from the film entirely with no impact. Also I felt Erik was a bit of a weak villain and Andy Serkis was much more better placed and would have brought a bit more character.
All in all its a good and different origin story, but not one of my favourites.
I like T'Challa as a main character and I love some of the strong female characters in this film. His sister especially is fantastic and brings some welcome humour too. This isn't your typical Marvel film, and feels like it has more meaning and depth, although this means the humour side is a little lacking. Its also good not to have this bogged down with other characters from the universe.
My problems were that it felt like it dragged a bit and I was almost getting bored. The CGI is very patchy in places to the point it gets distracting and despite some good characters, I feel a lot of others are very under developed, like Forest Whitaker and Daniel Kaluuya. Martin Freeman's character could have been removed from the film entirely with no impact. Also I felt Erik was a bit of a weak villain and Andy Serkis was much more better placed and would have brought a bit more character.
All in all its a good and different origin story, but not one of my favourites.
Acanthea Grimscythe (300 KP) rated Looking for Dei in Books
Jun 10, 2018 (Updated Jan 18, 2019)
I hate being the first person to give a book a low rating, but after months of trying, I was unable to finish Looking for Dei. Largely, it's simply not my style. The voice is a little too passive, the story a little too predictable. Then again, my tastes are a bit bloodier and darker than this fantasy novel, and this is yet another pure YA read--like Ghost Slayer, but fantasy rather than paranormal.
I don't feel an attachment to any of the characters, and for me that's a big problem. There's no connection, no wondering what will happen to them and that could be in part because of all the exposition. They simply bore me, for lack of a better word. I don't mean to come off harsh, but I've really been struggling to read this.
Plotwise, its much of the same. Too much of what is going on can be guessed at. The evil characters have no mystery to them. The good characters are always fortunate in what happens to them. It's simply too fantastic in that regard for me.
I'd like to thank the author for providing me with an ARC of his book for the purpose of review. I regret being unable to finish this book, but after three months of trying and putting it down, I simply cannot force-feed it to myself.
I don't feel an attachment to any of the characters, and for me that's a big problem. There's no connection, no wondering what will happen to them and that could be in part because of all the exposition. They simply bore me, for lack of a better word. I don't mean to come off harsh, but I've really been struggling to read this.
Plotwise, its much of the same. Too much of what is going on can be guessed at. The evil characters have no mystery to them. The good characters are always fortunate in what happens to them. It's simply too fantastic in that regard for me.
I'd like to thank the author for providing me with an ARC of his book for the purpose of review. I regret being unable to finish this book, but after three months of trying and putting it down, I simply cannot force-feed it to myself.
Kristin (149 KP) rated Heartkeeper (Heartkeeper Saga, #1) in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
In the (possibly not so distant) future, there's a Covenant between the human world and the natural one: Humans wreaked havoc on the Earth, and now they must make amends. They do this through obtaining Hearts, animal spirits that they must earn through a series of trials, proving they are of strong heart and mind and are willing to protect the lands and all its inhabitants. Adain is ready to begin his journey into adulthood, and it starts with the Heart Chase, where he must capture a Heart to call his own. Little does he know that this year's trials won't go according to plan...
This story pulled me in from the very start. Just the idea behind it alone, that humans have made a pact with the natural world to bring order back from the chaos of our time, is a fantastic concept, one that I had long discussions about with friends upon starting this series. And the way it's written makes it easily understandable for anyone, as children could read it right alongside their parents. I've already recommended this book to several people, and I look forward to the rest of the series, as well as more from this author.
5 stars =)
In the (possibly not so distant) future, there's a Covenant between the human world and the natural one: Humans wreaked havoc on the Earth, and now they must make amends. They do this through obtaining Hearts, animal spirits that they must earn through a series of trials, proving they are of strong heart and mind and are willing to protect the lands and all its inhabitants. Adain is ready to begin his journey into adulthood, and it starts with the Heart Chase, where he must capture a Heart to call his own. Little does he know that this year's trials won't go according to plan...
This story pulled me in from the very start. Just the idea behind it alone, that humans have made a pact with the natural world to bring order back from the chaos of our time, is a fantastic concept, one that I had long discussions about with friends upon starting this series. And the way it's written makes it easily understandable for anyone, as children could read it right alongside their parents. I've already recommended this book to several people, and I look forward to the rest of the series, as well as more from this author.
5 stars =)
Louise (64 KP) rated Sometimes I Lie in Books
Jul 2, 2018
*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publishers in exchange for an honest review*
This book must have one of the shortest blurbs but one of the most intriguing, When I saw this book I instantly knew that I wanted to read it, there so much mystery in that blurb – I wanted to know why she was in a coma, why her husband didn’t love and what she lied about and if these lies were the reasons she was in a coma.
For a debut novel this absolutely fantastic, very absorbing, gripping and has you on the edge of your seat the whole way through, I truly am excited to see what this very talented writer is going to come up with next.
I am not going to write anything about the story as i think it will take some of the allure away. All you need to know is that you will be trying to second guess what is going and trying to reveal the truth. There are so many twists and turns in this book,if you are anything like me when I got to the plot twist I had to read it a few times to get my head round it.
This novel was dark,gritty and a great mystery/thriller novel.
This book must have one of the shortest blurbs but one of the most intriguing, When I saw this book I instantly knew that I wanted to read it, there so much mystery in that blurb – I wanted to know why she was in a coma, why her husband didn’t love and what she lied about and if these lies were the reasons she was in a coma.
For a debut novel this absolutely fantastic, very absorbing, gripping and has you on the edge of your seat the whole way through, I truly am excited to see what this very talented writer is going to come up with next.
I am not going to write anything about the story as i think it will take some of the allure away. All you need to know is that you will be trying to second guess what is going and trying to reveal the truth. There are so many twists and turns in this book,if you are anything like me when I got to the plot twist I had to read it a few times to get my head round it.
This novel was dark,gritty and a great mystery/thriller novel.
ClareR (6253 KP) Apr 3, 2019