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Mandatory Repairs (Collier's Creek)
6.0
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He's never been to the Cowboy State before, but he's already made an enemy. Max Stone is a...
Contemporary MM Romance
Fate in Suspension (Horn & Haven #1)
8.0
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Quiet. That's how he likes life, no drama to clean up... Tai Xen-Vorsy leads a straightforward...
Adult Fantasy LGBTQIA+ Paranormal Romance
Dakotah Salazar (12 KP) rated Yesterday (2019) in Movies
Jul 6, 2019
Charming (2 more)
Cinematography
Hamish Patel and Lily James
Script (3 more)
Lack of Premise Progression
Stale Use of Songs
Overshadowed, Bland Romance
A Beatle Bummer
In a ambitious musical fantasy shows Jack, played by Hamish Patel as a struggling musician looking to find a break in his career. With the help of his manager Ellie, played by Lily James, believes in his dream to stick by his side throughout the struggles. Jack gets hit by the bus and the world seems to have forgotten one of the most popular bands of all time: The Beatles. And now only Jack knows and tries to revive their catalogue for the world to hear again.
It is a pretty charming film throughout, and it really had a lot of strong performances to carry it's premise. Hamish Patel and Lily James have good chemistry, and there is a sense of history between them, as they have been good friends all of their lives, but never tried to put themselves in the next step. Lily James is the one who tries to pursue into that more, while Hamish is focused on himself and the music. Truthfully, there isn't a whole lot of depth besides that history. We are relied on this to carry the romance which is a huge factor of the movie. So much that it distracts everything else and both characters act irrational instead of acting like normal human beings and having a conversation.
It's a sharp film to look at. The lighting, production design, cinematography is wonderful. It has the Danny Boyle stamp on there, especially an obvious slanted shot in the beginning of the film. Even the score has trinkets of The Beatles layered throughout.
The script needed rewrites...there are many ways that this premise could've been successful, but after the film was over, it proved me wrong...this premise is troubling in many ways. There isn't a good way to progress this kind of story and I wanted the film to pursue the story from a fantasy perspective. Especially with something like Rocketman where the songs become part of its whole story. Every Beatles song after another sound so trite and it's because they lack the flavor of what they are genuinely about. It rushes through each one and uses a LOT of songs that it becomes a headache after a while. I think Hamish has a great voice for it, but I couldn't stand how the songs were treated throughout this movie. Especially with it's terrible third act where it becomes a huge, convenient mess for everyone. The script was simply bad.
I would wait for it if interested. Seeing it in a theater might give an impression for its great filmmaking, but a very hollow experience in my opinion.
It is a pretty charming film throughout, and it really had a lot of strong performances to carry it's premise. Hamish Patel and Lily James have good chemistry, and there is a sense of history between them, as they have been good friends all of their lives, but never tried to put themselves in the next step. Lily James is the one who tries to pursue into that more, while Hamish is focused on himself and the music. Truthfully, there isn't a whole lot of depth besides that history. We are relied on this to carry the romance which is a huge factor of the movie. So much that it distracts everything else and both characters act irrational instead of acting like normal human beings and having a conversation.
It's a sharp film to look at. The lighting, production design, cinematography is wonderful. It has the Danny Boyle stamp on there, especially an obvious slanted shot in the beginning of the film. Even the score has trinkets of The Beatles layered throughout.
The script needed rewrites...there are many ways that this premise could've been successful, but after the film was over, it proved me wrong...this premise is troubling in many ways. There isn't a good way to progress this kind of story and I wanted the film to pursue the story from a fantasy perspective. Especially with something like Rocketman where the songs become part of its whole story. Every Beatles song after another sound so trite and it's because they lack the flavor of what they are genuinely about. It rushes through each one and uses a LOT of songs that it becomes a headache after a while. I think Hamish has a great voice for it, but I couldn't stand how the songs were treated throughout this movie. Especially with it's terrible third act where it becomes a huge, convenient mess for everyone. The script was simply bad.
I would wait for it if interested. Seeing it in a theater might give an impression for its great filmmaking, but a very hollow experience in my opinion.
HyruleBalverine (16 KP) rated The Gargoyle in Books
Nov 27, 2017 (Updated Nov 27, 2017)
A literary Journey that will have you questioning the reality your characters live in.
I typically read books in the science fiction, science fiction / fantasy, crime Thriller, or horror genres. A friend of mine suggested that I read this book because she really liked it. I will admit to going into with skepticism expect there to be some sort of romance novel. While there is some discussion of a romantic history and potentially some romantic feelings between the characters that is not what this book is about.
As you read through the story someone getting to know the characters and events unfold including the tails that Marianne tells of the past, you start to question whether this woman is telling the truth or she is actually crazy. The book never blatantly tells you one way or the other, but leaves it up to you to decide based on what you read and take from the book. I definitely has a clear opinion as to what was really going on but I won't spoil it for you by telling you what I think or why.
I will tell you after having read this book, I made it a point to recommend it to other friends I have that read because I thought it was that amazing especially given that it is not the type of story I typically read.
As you read through the story someone getting to know the characters and events unfold including the tails that Marianne tells of the past, you start to question whether this woman is telling the truth or she is actually crazy. The book never blatantly tells you one way or the other, but leaves it up to you to decide based on what you read and take from the book. I definitely has a clear opinion as to what was really going on but I won't spoil it for you by telling you what I think or why.
I will tell you after having read this book, I made it a point to recommend it to other friends I have that read because I thought it was that amazing especially given that it is not the type of story I typically read.
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Disappearing Nightly (Esther Diamond, #1) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
First off, while this could technically be called an urban fantasy, it doesn't really have the atmosphere of one and I'd be more likely to call it a magical mystery. <u>Disappearing Nightly</u> is a charming, wonderfully intriguing tale featuring the logical off-Broadway actress Esther Diamond, who through no fault of her own stumbles into the world of magic, and the path of Dr. Maximillian Zadok.
The author crafted a well-done, swiftly plotted yarn that left me pleased as punch. The characters went beyond caricatures, which could have so easily happened with the amount of personalities featured, and each of their respective professions, in the more colorful world of NYC. Through a comedy of errors, rapid fire dialogue, which the author has a gift for, and hilarious interactions, this motley crew of an investigative team gets to the bottom of the mysterious disappearances that are happening in the community. I had no trouble visualizing events as they unfolded, with amusing results, and could easily see this as a television series. The romance was nicely weaved into the story without becoming overpowering, and surprise of all surprises, there was no bed-hopping! What a nice change of pace. Altogether, this was fine little read that I flew right through and am glad I have the sequel handy! So far, this just may be my favorite read of the year.
The author crafted a well-done, swiftly plotted yarn that left me pleased as punch. The characters went beyond caricatures, which could have so easily happened with the amount of personalities featured, and each of their respective professions, in the more colorful world of NYC. Through a comedy of errors, rapid fire dialogue, which the author has a gift for, and hilarious interactions, this motley crew of an investigative team gets to the bottom of the mysterious disappearances that are happening in the community. I had no trouble visualizing events as they unfolded, with amusing results, and could easily see this as a television series. The romance was nicely weaved into the story without becoming overpowering, and surprise of all surprises, there was no bed-hopping! What a nice change of pace. Altogether, this was fine little read that I flew right through and am glad I have the sequel handy! So far, this just may be my favorite read of the year.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Triggered Response in Books
Mar 15, 2019
An explosion in a secret defense lab changes the lives of three men forever...
His brain was on fire, and he fought going back to the raging inferno of his private hell. Despite the power he now possessed, he couldnt even remember his name. According to the news, he was Brayden Sloane, former security expert at Cranesbrook Labs, now wanted for murder and kidnapping. He couldnt remember that, nor the woman who claimed to be his wife. Claire Fanshaw needed Bray to find her friend who'd disappeared following the explosion. Until Bray regained his memory, she'd stick to him like glue. But what would he do when he realized the woman in his bed was a stranger? And what would she do if the cops were right about Bray?
This story is excellent with mystery, twists and turns, and romance with a little what if fantasy thrown in. Even if you have not read the previous two novels you can read this one as enough information is filtered back through the story so you won't feel lost.
The author has done a great job for the final book in the series. Well constructed plot and wonderful developed characters
Three authors made it work and leaves you wanting more. Very hard to put down.
I received this ARC from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.
His brain was on fire, and he fought going back to the raging inferno of his private hell. Despite the power he now possessed, he couldnt even remember his name. According to the news, he was Brayden Sloane, former security expert at Cranesbrook Labs, now wanted for murder and kidnapping. He couldnt remember that, nor the woman who claimed to be his wife. Claire Fanshaw needed Bray to find her friend who'd disappeared following the explosion. Until Bray regained his memory, she'd stick to him like glue. But what would he do when he realized the woman in his bed was a stranger? And what would she do if the cops were right about Bray?
This story is excellent with mystery, twists and turns, and romance with a little what if fantasy thrown in. Even if you have not read the previous two novels you can read this one as enough information is filtered back through the story so you won't feel lost.
The author has done a great job for the final book in the series. Well constructed plot and wonderful developed characters
Three authors made it work and leaves you wanting more. Very hard to put down.
I received this ARC from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Cursed (Beholder, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is not my normal read as lately I have been hitting the erotica/contemporary romance hard. However, it had to do with necromancy and that is something I simply cannot pass up. Necromancy is something I am highly interested not only because it is rarely written about (compared to vampires, shifters, etc.), but also because rarely is the hero/heroine ever the necromancer. Usually the necromancer is the villain/antagonist.
This story was refreshing, like a breath of fresh air from what I have been reading. Elea is such a powerful character, both in magic and personality. I could definitely get behind her and her ideals. The authors created world was also fascinating. I felt she not only created a marvelous world but also did a good job at explaining it. Sometimes in fantasy novels, I get lost concerning the authors created mythology, but I wasnt with this novel.
It definitely has a young adult feel to it though. Regardless, I loved it and cant wait to read more. If you are a fan of strong heroines with interesting magic, and a fascinating world beyond imagination, then you may enjoy this novel. Not to mention the young love that spurs main characters. I am all for young, dewy eyed love
This is not my normal read as lately I have been hitting the erotica/contemporary romance hard. However, it had to do with necromancy and that is something I simply cannot pass up. Necromancy is something I am highly interested not only because it is rarely written about (compared to vampires, shifters, etc.), but also because rarely is the hero/heroine ever the necromancer. Usually the necromancer is the villain/antagonist.
This story was refreshing, like a breath of fresh air from what I have been reading. Elea is such a powerful character, both in magic and personality. I could definitely get behind her and her ideals. The authors created world was also fascinating. I felt she not only created a marvelous world but also did a good job at explaining it. Sometimes in fantasy novels, I get lost concerning the authors created mythology, but I wasnt with this novel.
It definitely has a young adult feel to it though. Regardless, I loved it and cant wait to read more. If you are a fan of strong heroines with interesting magic, and a fascinating world beyond imagination, then you may enjoy this novel. Not to mention the young love that spurs main characters. I am all for young, dewy eyed love
Ivana A. | Diary of Difference (1171 KP) rated Suzy Spitfire Kills Everybody in Books
Aug 21, 2018
Thank you Joe for sending me this beautiful book!
First of all - this book is AWESOME. The character of Suzy is described so perfectly well, and it fits her role and it reminds me of myself so much, that I was laughing at scenes in the book where I probably shouldn't.
The scenes are amazing. This book takes you to an incredible adventure in time and space, introducing a new world, different than the one you are used to, and it takes you all the way in - leaving you breathless until the last page.
It is a story where Suzy kills her uncle and she's not wanted on Earth. But soon she finds out that her father has been killed, and he has created something that endangers the whole universe. With a great motive behind her, she is determined to find that little something and save the world? Or is she?
With the great help of many others that she is not sure whether they're trustworthy until the very end, she goes into this adventure, ready to lose it all, just for a very strong motive of unconditional love - even if it means her death.
Definitely a must read for every single person that loves fantasy, mystery, adventure, romance, thriller. It is all well put into this incredible book.
First of all - this book is AWESOME. The character of Suzy is described so perfectly well, and it fits her role and it reminds me of myself so much, that I was laughing at scenes in the book where I probably shouldn't.
The scenes are amazing. This book takes you to an incredible adventure in time and space, introducing a new world, different than the one you are used to, and it takes you all the way in - leaving you breathless until the last page.
It is a story where Suzy kills her uncle and she's not wanted on Earth. But soon she finds out that her father has been killed, and he has created something that endangers the whole universe. With a great motive behind her, she is determined to find that little something and save the world? Or is she?
With the great help of many others that she is not sure whether they're trustworthy until the very end, she goes into this adventure, ready to lose it all, just for a very strong motive of unconditional love - even if it means her death.
Definitely a must read for every single person that loves fantasy, mystery, adventure, romance, thriller. It is all well put into this incredible book.
RavenclawPrincess913 (253 KP) rated Feud of Four Houses in Books
Jul 24, 2019
In Feud of Four Houses: Curse of The Fairy Kingdom by Chrishel Smith; Since the beginning of the Alaire and Dagen family lines there has been a Feud going on between the families struggling to gain one another's power the Goddess gifted them or so they thought. This all begins to change when Amara Alaire goes to her family library to do research on the family feud. There she finds a picture of her and her enemy, Tristan Dagen. But, it turns out not to be them and that there was a curse placed upon their house which started with the people in the photo. Throughout the book they go off and try to break the Curse overcoming obstacles on the way. Who are the people in the photo? And what does that have to do with them? And why was the curse placed upon their houses? To find this out you will have to read the book.
This book has a twist on fantasy and romance like none I have read before, and many unexpected plot twists. The book also starts off slow but starts to pick up a few chapters in. I honestly loved it. The book made me feel as though I was there with them feeling all their emotions and struggles. The ending was unexpected and very emotional.
This book has a twist on fantasy and romance like none I have read before, and many unexpected plot twists. The book also starts off slow but starts to pick up a few chapters in. I honestly loved it. The book made me feel as though I was there with them feeling all their emotions and struggles. The ending was unexpected and very emotional.
Merissa (11622 KP) rated Disaster at Roosevelt Ranch (Roosevelt Ranch #1) in Books
Nov 13, 2019
Disaster at Roosevelt Ranch is the first book in the Roosevelt Ranch series, and tells the story of Kelly, a young woman from the town, and Justin, the ex-Forces Doctor who comes in to clear up his brother's mess. However, he soon realises that it is different from the usual messes, as he gets to know Kelly, and finds out she is pregnant.
You can see that this is a disaster just waiting to happen, but it is still compelling reading as you wait for the whole thing to erupt. Kelly and Justin are wonderful main characters, but there is a whole slew of other characters that are guaranteed to delight - including one 86-year-old lady who wears a cat sweater ;)
Whilst Elise Faber's Phoenix series (Fantasy/Paranormal/Romance) is still my favourite so far, I will definitely be reading more of her contemporary work - which is saying something for me!
Well written, with no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, this book is full of drama and emotion, but nothing too bad. I would certainly recommend this brilliant book to wrap up warm with!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
You can see that this is a disaster just waiting to happen, but it is still compelling reading as you wait for the whole thing to erupt. Kelly and Justin are wonderful main characters, but there is a whole slew of other characters that are guaranteed to delight - including one 86-year-old lady who wears a cat sweater ;)
Whilst Elise Faber's Phoenix series (Fantasy/Paranormal/Romance) is still my favourite so far, I will definitely be reading more of her contemporary work - which is saying something for me!
Well written, with no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, this book is full of drama and emotion, but nothing too bad. I would certainly recommend this brilliant book to wrap up warm with!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!