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Sonofdel (6291 KP) rated 77 Shadow Street in Books
Jun 3, 2022
scarily realistic but futuristic novel
I have always loved Dean Koontz because of the way he immerses you in the situations in his book. Its not many authors that make you feel as if you are actually in the book not just reading it. Loved this book because whilst it is a work of fiction there are a lot of instances that ring true, particularly the way we are giving AI too much power and information. At first glance this is just your run of the mill horror house novel, but once you get into it, its so much more. Great character and development and i love the way that he does not concentrate on just one persons story. There are lots of different characters ranging from a small girl with autism to a contract killer and its blended in well to create an atmospheric, horrific and frightening novel. Its split into two books and i must admit that when i was about half way through i thought it was drawing to a close, how wrong i was. Well worth a read A++++
Bethr1986 (305 KP) rated Salt & Blood (Darker Desires #2) in Books
Sep 14, 2022
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Vivianna Sky and Adrian Graves have got a lot of demons to work through with themselves and others. When there is an unexplained phenomenon feeding off the life force of unborn children and expectant mothers, causing their lives and families to fall apart they must do everything they can to stop any more tragedies from happening.
This is book number 2 of the darker desires series, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it so far and I'm hoping that there is more to come from V and Adrian's story (please Tesla?)
The writing is so smooth it just flows and if I didn't have responsibilities I would of quite happily read this in a day I just wish I could have l the stories at once to read straight after one another.
The battle scenes are extremely well described and graphic and there are some sexual scenes but they are tastefully written and didn't make me feel uncomfortable at any point reading them
Another brilliant novel from Tesla Storm
A recommended read from me
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
Vivianna Sky and Adrian Graves have got a lot of demons to work through with themselves and others. When there is an unexplained phenomenon feeding off the life force of unborn children and expectant mothers, causing their lives and families to fall apart they must do everything they can to stop any more tragedies from happening.
This is book number 2 of the darker desires series, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it so far and I'm hoping that there is more to come from V and Adrian's story (please Tesla?)
The writing is so smooth it just flows and if I didn't have responsibilities I would of quite happily read this in a day I just wish I could have l the stories at once to read straight after one another.
The battle scenes are extremely well described and graphic and there are some sexual scenes but they are tastefully written and didn't make me feel uncomfortable at any point reading them
Another brilliant novel from Tesla Storm
A recommended read from me
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
Bethr1986 (305 KP) rated Mirrorfall (Ash & Blue, #1) in Books
Sep 24, 2022
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Steph has been headhunted to help unravel a code that has been found that so far nobody has had any luck trying to decipher. Whilst working on the code she finds the mansion under attack she hides out in the best place she can think of, she does get found and for some reason, the person that found her seems very familiar and when he reveals why she is stunned!
Mirrorfall is the first in the series Ash and Blue. I found the book quite interesting - it's a bit MIB mixed with Winx saga and a bit more besides. Although I found it captivating there were times when I kind of thought hang on a minute, really would you process news like that as quickly as she seemed to? There were also times I did feel slightly confused as to what was going on that was more in the first few chapters though it may just have been me.
I did enjoy the overall story and experiences that happened in there so would definitely recommend you read this.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
Steph has been headhunted to help unravel a code that has been found that so far nobody has had any luck trying to decipher. Whilst working on the code she finds the mansion under attack she hides out in the best place she can think of, she does get found and for some reason, the person that found her seems very familiar and when he reveals why she is stunned!
Mirrorfall is the first in the series Ash and Blue. I found the book quite interesting - it's a bit MIB mixed with Winx saga and a bit more besides. Although I found it captivating there were times when I kind of thought hang on a minute, really would you process news like that as quickly as she seemed to? There were also times I did feel slightly confused as to what was going on that was more in the first few chapters though it may just have been me.
I did enjoy the overall story and experiences that happened in there so would definitely recommend you read this.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
Merissa (12926 KP) rated Enchanted: Roberta's Story (The Academy #4) in Books
Feb 2, 2022
ENCHANTED is Roberta's story. We have already met Roberta in the other stories from The Academy, so we know some of her backstory. This gives a more in-depth view of it, including what life was like in the 1900s for independent young women.
Although I liked Roberta and Nate together, and can see and understand how Roberta thought he was her soul mate, I didn't quite connect with Nate by himself. If Roberta was indeed his soul mate, then I feel he did a grave injustice to her and himself by not choosing their life together and going the easy route.
For me, Ronin was one of the better characters and I was definitely left wanting more about Roberta's mum.
This was well-paced and full of attention to detail which made it a delight to read. A brilliant addition to the series and definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Although I liked Roberta and Nate together, and can see and understand how Roberta thought he was her soul mate, I didn't quite connect with Nate by himself. If Roberta was indeed his soul mate, then I feel he did a grave injustice to her and himself by not choosing their life together and going the easy route.
For me, Ronin was one of the better characters and I was definitely left wanting more about Roberta's mum.
This was well-paced and full of attention to detail which made it a delight to read. A brilliant addition to the series and definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Merissa (12926 KP) rated Safe Shores (Semper Fidelis) in Books
Oct 4, 2023
SAFE SHORES is a hot novella featuring Kirk and Shane. They have been together for three years, and both of them feel insecure about moving their relationship to the next stage. The next time Shane has shore leave, both of them blurt it out, but have no time to enjoy the moment as Shane is called out on a rescue, which also happens to involve Kirk's son, Joel.
This novella is very fast-paced. We learn of Kirk and Shane's past through inner musings, which seemed a little out of place considering how action-packed the rest of it was. I loved the sea rescue! I thought that was incredibly well-written, with enough detail to see what was happening, without being overloaded.
Overall, it was a quick and spicy novella. I would have liked more from these two though, even if we do find out what their future plans are.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 4, 2023
This novella is very fast-paced. We learn of Kirk and Shane's past through inner musings, which seemed a little out of place considering how action-packed the rest of it was. I loved the sea rescue! I thought that was incredibly well-written, with enough detail to see what was happening, without being overloaded.
Overall, it was a quick and spicy novella. I would have liked more from these two though, even if we do find out what their future plans are.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 4, 2023
Merissa (12926 KP) rated Faith and Moonlight (Faith and Moonlight #1) in Books
May 20, 2023
This is a young adult fantasy novella that starts with Roan and Kay on their way from an orphanage fire. They have little left in the world apart from each other but are determined to make their path at the College. Kay and Roan are both interesting characters, with strengths and weaknesses of their own. They balance each other out nicely, but it may be that their lives will take different paths.
This was a quick read that was thoroughly enjoyable, a fantasy-filled ride full of characters and hardships. Well written and with no editing or grammatical errors that I found, the story flowed well and was evenly paced throughout.
This is the first novella by these authors that I have read, and although this can be read as a standalone, I understand that it is best if you have some prior knowledge of the "Echo of the Ascended" series. I don't have such knowledge, but I don't feel that this negatively impacted my enjoyment of this novella either. Definitely recommended.
* I received this book from the authors in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 21, 2016
This was a quick read that was thoroughly enjoyable, a fantasy-filled ride full of characters and hardships. Well written and with no editing or grammatical errors that I found, the story flowed well and was evenly paced throughout.
This is the first novella by these authors that I have read, and although this can be read as a standalone, I understand that it is best if you have some prior knowledge of the "Echo of the Ascended" series. I don't have such knowledge, but I don't feel that this negatively impacted my enjoyment of this novella either. Definitely recommended.
* I received this book from the authors in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 21, 2016
Merissa (12926 KP) rated Dalysian Hope (Dalysia #1) in Books
Jun 7, 2023
If you like Fantasy with an Urban twist, then this is definitely one for you. Sophie is living a 'normal' life until one evening when weirdness erupts and two guys show up in her life. One may be there to help, and one may be there to hinder, but until Sophie figures out what the heck is going on, then she will be none the wiser!
This is the author's debut novel and I am already in love with her intimate and descriptive writing style. It doesn't feel like it was written for the masses, but rather just for "you" alone. This means that you are drawn right into the story and care about the characters, some more than others!
With layer upon layer woven together in a thrilling elemental story, this book will sweep you away and definitely leave you wanting more.
Oh, one thing more I need to say - TEAM REN!!!
* 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!
Apr 30, 2016
This is the author's debut novel and I am already in love with her intimate and descriptive writing style. It doesn't feel like it was written for the masses, but rather just for "you" alone. This means that you are drawn right into the story and care about the characters, some more than others!
With layer upon layer woven together in a thrilling elemental story, this book will sweep you away and definitely leave you wanting more.
Oh, one thing more I need to say - TEAM REN!!!
* 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!
Apr 30, 2016
ClareR (5885 KP) rated Swimming For Beginners in Books
Jan 27, 2024 (Updated Jan 27, 2024)
Well this was a thoroughly lovely read!
Loretta is a very prickly character, so much so, that I began to think quite early on that she was hiding something (and it all does become clear). I’ve met a fair few people like Loretta, people who don’t have great social skills and really struggle with small talk and work relationships - and in this day and age it should be noted and understood by employers. Not so much where Loretta works though.
Six year old Phoebe is a lovely child. Despite her trauma, she’s lively, talkative, charming and funny. Yes, she’s upset and cries - that’s just what you’d expect. I couldn’t help but think that her grandmother didn’t really help matters, but then she’s equally as upset. Which is why Loretta’s help is needed.
Phoebe is the making of Loretta. She not only makes her see that there’s more to life than her job, she also helps her to deal with her own past - and make some big changes in her life.
Swimming for Beginners is a feel-good read, it’s very sad in places and gives the reader ample opportunity to laugh as well. I loved it.
Loretta is a very prickly character, so much so, that I began to think quite early on that she was hiding something (and it all does become clear). I’ve met a fair few people like Loretta, people who don’t have great social skills and really struggle with small talk and work relationships - and in this day and age it should be noted and understood by employers. Not so much where Loretta works though.
Six year old Phoebe is a lovely child. Despite her trauma, she’s lively, talkative, charming and funny. Yes, she’s upset and cries - that’s just what you’d expect. I couldn’t help but think that her grandmother didn’t really help matters, but then she’s equally as upset. Which is why Loretta’s help is needed.
Phoebe is the making of Loretta. She not only makes her see that there’s more to life than her job, she also helps her to deal with her own past - and make some big changes in her life.
Swimming for Beginners is a feel-good read, it’s very sad in places and gives the reader ample opportunity to laugh as well. I loved it.
Merissa (12926 KP) rated Her Mountain Rescuer (Honey Ridge #1) in Books
May 30, 2025
HER MOUNTAIN RESCUER is the first book in the Honey Ridge series, but features two characters we have met before. Hailey is Logan's daughter, and Beau is his best friend. We met Logan in Accidentally Kidnapping the Mountain Man, when Kaylee kidnaps him.
I love this author's books! She gives you exactly what she promises - a hot and spicy age-gap Daddy Romance with a breeding kink. AND IT WORKS! Even though this is a one-sit novella, you will get swept up in Hailey's story, feeling her heartbreak when she thinks Beau is out of her reach. You will feel his frustration at wanting his best friend's daughter. So when they get together and work it out? Sheer perfection!
If you're after a short and hot instalove story, then I recommend not only this book, but any by this author. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 27, 2025
I love this author's books! She gives you exactly what she promises - a hot and spicy age-gap Daddy Romance with a breeding kink. AND IT WORKS! Even though this is a one-sit novella, you will get swept up in Hailey's story, feeling her heartbreak when she thinks Beau is out of her reach. You will feel his frustration at wanting his best friend's daughter. So when they get together and work it out? Sheer perfection!
If you're after a short and hot instalove story, then I recommend not only this book, but any by this author. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 27, 2025
Ama (21 KP) rated Detroit (2017) in Movies
Sep 11, 2017
Shattering
The first couple of questions when writing a review here are What's good? and What's bad?
Now, as you've seen I have given this film a full score, but I could not for the life of me put into a sentence what was good about it. It's not a nice film. Nothing about it is good. Except the way it makes you feel with it. But then even that is not a good thing. It's ugly.
I watched Detroit yesterday at the local cinema. I had seen the trailer, knew it was gonna be a tearjerker, knew I would hate the world and myself after watching it.
What I realised is that I completely underestimated the film.
About half an hour to an hour in all I wanted to do was to turn it off. I had an urge to just turn the cinema off, go home and potentially have some chocolate.
It wasn't the fact that the film was bad (I repeat, I gave it a full score), nor was it surprising narrative (again, I had seen the trailer and my tiny bit of historical knowledge filled in the gaps), but something in the way it was presented somehow evoked that feeling of wanting it to go away.
When I walked out of the cinema and forced myself to think about it, I realised a couple of things (all of which eventually made me come to the conclusion that that might have been deliberate).
First of all that film was lit like a feature film and shot like a documentary. This means that watching it, my brain was trying to fool me into thinking this was real a lot more than it usually would. It's film like a documentary, so it's a documentary so this is exactly what must have happened, right? There was a camera at the scene, right?
Well, of course there wasn't. Of course it was still a feature film and of course before the credit it was even stated that besides the testimonies of the parties involved, there was still dramatic licence taken. But that didn't change the fact that it shook me. It shook me because that little shake of the camera that was a little more intense that I was used to and that little zoom every now and then to get closer to an action as though the camera had only just noticed it all lead to that convincing idea of this being real and having happened exactly as I was seeing it.
The acting was splendid. Again, upon contemplating the film, I wondered what it was like for all of these black people (the term used deliberately) to play these roles, having grown up in that country themselves. I wondered what it was like for Will Poulter to become an asshole from the work 'Action!' and while that isn't any different than any other set, somehow, in Detroit, it seemed like so much bigger a deal. On this note, kudos to all the actors in this piece. There was none of you that felt out of place or irrelevant. Each of you portrayed a character dealing with the situation at hand differently and on a spectrum that showed how truly diverse humans are - even if united in a cause, be it on the white side or the black.
I could go on for hours (which I did, with the friend I went to see it with) about how this film made me feel and how much insecurity in the current world it made me feel, but there is no point in doing that. Feelings are best felt, rather than read so just watch it and I'm sure you'll understand.
I do want to say this though:
This film made me realise that the world we live in today is not the product from its past, but rather a work in progress towards what is to come.
I in no way mean that I did not know that previously, but there is a difference between knowing and understanding.
On this note, this film is not for the faint hearted but it is one of those important films that need to be watched at the moment.
Now, as you've seen I have given this film a full score, but I could not for the life of me put into a sentence what was good about it. It's not a nice film. Nothing about it is good. Except the way it makes you feel with it. But then even that is not a good thing. It's ugly.
I watched Detroit yesterday at the local cinema. I had seen the trailer, knew it was gonna be a tearjerker, knew I would hate the world and myself after watching it.
What I realised is that I completely underestimated the film.
About half an hour to an hour in all I wanted to do was to turn it off. I had an urge to just turn the cinema off, go home and potentially have some chocolate.
It wasn't the fact that the film was bad (I repeat, I gave it a full score), nor was it surprising narrative (again, I had seen the trailer and my tiny bit of historical knowledge filled in the gaps), but something in the way it was presented somehow evoked that feeling of wanting it to go away.
When I walked out of the cinema and forced myself to think about it, I realised a couple of things (all of which eventually made me come to the conclusion that that might have been deliberate).
First of all that film was lit like a feature film and shot like a documentary. This means that watching it, my brain was trying to fool me into thinking this was real a lot more than it usually would. It's film like a documentary, so it's a documentary so this is exactly what must have happened, right? There was a camera at the scene, right?
Well, of course there wasn't. Of course it was still a feature film and of course before the credit it was even stated that besides the testimonies of the parties involved, there was still dramatic licence taken. But that didn't change the fact that it shook me. It shook me because that little shake of the camera that was a little more intense that I was used to and that little zoom every now and then to get closer to an action as though the camera had only just noticed it all lead to that convincing idea of this being real and having happened exactly as I was seeing it.
The acting was splendid. Again, upon contemplating the film, I wondered what it was like for all of these black people (the term used deliberately) to play these roles, having grown up in that country themselves. I wondered what it was like for Will Poulter to become an asshole from the work 'Action!' and while that isn't any different than any other set, somehow, in Detroit, it seemed like so much bigger a deal. On this note, kudos to all the actors in this piece. There was none of you that felt out of place or irrelevant. Each of you portrayed a character dealing with the situation at hand differently and on a spectrum that showed how truly diverse humans are - even if united in a cause, be it on the white side or the black.
I could go on for hours (which I did, with the friend I went to see it with) about how this film made me feel and how much insecurity in the current world it made me feel, but there is no point in doing that. Feelings are best felt, rather than read so just watch it and I'm sure you'll understand.
I do want to say this though:
This film made me realise that the world we live in today is not the product from its past, but rather a work in progress towards what is to come.
I in no way mean that I did not know that previously, but there is a difference between knowing and understanding.
On this note, this film is not for the faint hearted but it is one of those important films that need to be watched at the moment.