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Bethr1986 (305 KP) rated Light My Pyre (Everwood Falls #1) in Books
Apr 18, 2023
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Gwyn is on the run from her fiance-to-be and the pain he's caused her. Asher is part fae and a fire wielder of the highest calling. When serious fires keep happening there's only one person to blame isn't there?
This is the first in the series of the Everwood Falls tales and if they are all written like this I really cannot wait for future stories. The way Kat has written made me feel included in the story never far away from the action and if any questions did arise like I wonder what's happened with this bit, or who's involved why, etc they got answered pretty quickly in the story a little bit further on. I haven't found anything that's left me confused or trying to guess what's happened and once I was able to sit and read it I could have continued to read it for a bit longer even if it hadn't finished where it did
Recommended read.
** 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. *
Gwyn is on the run from her fiance-to-be and the pain he's caused her. Asher is part fae and a fire wielder of the highest calling. When serious fires keep happening there's only one person to blame isn't there?
This is the first in the series of the Everwood Falls tales and if they are all written like this I really cannot wait for future stories. The way Kat has written made me feel included in the story never far away from the action and if any questions did arise like I wonder what's happened with this bit, or who's involved why, etc they got answered pretty quickly in the story a little bit further on. I haven't found anything that's left me confused or trying to guess what's happened and once I was able to sit and read it I could have continued to read it for a bit longer even if it hadn't finished where it did
Recommended read.
** 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. *
Blazing Minds (92 KP) rated The Mummy (2017) in Movies
Nov 1, 2021 (Updated Nov 3, 2021)
Ah The Mummy, one of my all-time favourite movies, I remember the first time I saw the 1932 film with Boris Karloff when I was very young, scared the living daylights out of me, thank heavens for big backed sofas!
Then many, many, years later in 1999 Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz brought The Mummy back to life (excuse the pun) on the big screen with it wit, wonderful chemistry between Fraser and Weisz, some pretty nifty CGI during the transformation scenes of Arnold Vosloo’s Mummy and not forgetting that one line that so many off would throw into conversations as much as we could, “Apparently he was having a very good time!”.
Now 18 years later (oh damn now I do feel really old!) The Mummy is back with not only a reboot of the film, but also the start of the “Dark Universe“, a new world of gods and monsters that will be unleashed on to cinemas screens, starting with The Mummy, all the films will be connected by a mysterious organisation known as the “Prodigium” which is led by Dr. Henry Jekyll (Russell Crowe, (Nice Guys, Les Miserables) who we have been introduced to in this movie.
Then many, many, years later in 1999 Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz brought The Mummy back to life (excuse the pun) on the big screen with it wit, wonderful chemistry between Fraser and Weisz, some pretty nifty CGI during the transformation scenes of Arnold Vosloo’s Mummy and not forgetting that one line that so many off would throw into conversations as much as we could, “Apparently he was having a very good time!”.
Now 18 years later (oh damn now I do feel really old!) The Mummy is back with not only a reboot of the film, but also the start of the “Dark Universe“, a new world of gods and monsters that will be unleashed on to cinemas screens, starting with The Mummy, all the films will be connected by a mysterious organisation known as the “Prodigium” which is led by Dr. Henry Jekyll (Russell Crowe, (Nice Guys, Les Miserables) who we have been introduced to in this movie.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated The Selection in Books
Aug 10, 2022
141 of 230
Kindle
The Selection ( Book 1)
By Kiera Cass
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.
But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.
Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.
I absolutely loved it!! I can’t begin to describe how much I loved this book. The world building and social standings were well written. The characters are all interesting. The story is so good it kept me wanting to read more. This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be reading more! A real Cinderella feel!
Kindle
The Selection ( Book 1)
By Kiera Cass
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.
But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.
Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.
I absolutely loved it!! I can’t begin to describe how much I loved this book. The world building and social standings were well written. The characters are all interesting. The story is so good it kept me wanting to read more. This is my first book by this author and I will definitely be reading more! A real Cinderella feel!
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Snow White, Blood Red in Books
Apr 9, 2022
62 of 230
Snow White , Blood Red (Fairy tale anthology book 1)
Edited by Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Exploring the darker side of popular fairy tales, this anthology features dark and erotic tales of trolls and ogres, bewitched princesses, and magical kingdoms.
There were a few I picked out that I liked and I found a few new authors to try.
The Frog Prince by Gahan Wilson - Really enjoyed this it was a strange little story very Alice in Wonderland feel.
Stalking Beans by Nancy Kress - This is definitely a different adult spin on Jack and the beanstalk!
Snow Drop by Tabitha Lee - This was my favourite by far. A dark twisty version of Snow White and her step mother very dark.
Little Red by Wendy Wheeler - This gave me creepy shivers. Very well written unfortunately I can’t find anything by this author!
The Root of the Matter by Gregory Frost - This is a very adult version of Repunzel kinda dark and to the point.
The Changelings by Melanie Tem - Strange little story with some very sad undertones.
Troll Bridge by Neil Gaiman - I love Neil Gaiman he has such a unique storytelling ability and this did not disappoint!
Overall it was a good little anthology!
Snow White , Blood Red (Fairy tale anthology book 1)
Edited by Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Exploring the darker side of popular fairy tales, this anthology features dark and erotic tales of trolls and ogres, bewitched princesses, and magical kingdoms.
There were a few I picked out that I liked and I found a few new authors to try.
The Frog Prince by Gahan Wilson - Really enjoyed this it was a strange little story very Alice in Wonderland feel.
Stalking Beans by Nancy Kress - This is definitely a different adult spin on Jack and the beanstalk!
Snow Drop by Tabitha Lee - This was my favourite by far. A dark twisty version of Snow White and her step mother very dark.
Little Red by Wendy Wheeler - This gave me creepy shivers. Very well written unfortunately I can’t find anything by this author!
The Root of the Matter by Gregory Frost - This is a very adult version of Repunzel kinda dark and to the point.
The Changelings by Melanie Tem - Strange little story with some very sad undertones.
Troll Bridge by Neil Gaiman - I love Neil Gaiman he has such a unique storytelling ability and this did not disappoint!
Overall it was a good little anthology!
Dean (6927 KP) rated Elvis (2022) in Movies
Jul 6, 2022
Great songs (1 more)
Austin Butler
Feels even longer than 2.5hrs (1 more)
Not a detailed bio epic
We can't go on together...
Saw the trailer and the style and vibe of the film interested me, not knowing a great deal about Elvis I thought it would be interesting to know more.
It's great to find out more about him, how he started out and his inspiration. Still not sure how accurate some details are and some sections of his life are barely covered. So maybe not the full story you might expect, despite the 2.5hrs run time. Some how it felt even longer.
It does feel a little disjointed at times switching between Elvis story and also that of his manager Col Tom Parker. The songs are great and Austin Butler gives a great performance. The first half of the film about his rise was intriguing the second half towards the end of his career was a lot slower.
So it's very stylish and interesting, although big fans of Elvis might be a little disappointed on how much of Elvis it a actually covers. Also how accurate it is as well. For others it was a good incite if maybe not as detailed as you might expect.
It's great to find out more about him, how he started out and his inspiration. Still not sure how accurate some details are and some sections of his life are barely covered. So maybe not the full story you might expect, despite the 2.5hrs run time. Some how it felt even longer.
It does feel a little disjointed at times switching between Elvis story and also that of his manager Col Tom Parker. The songs are great and Austin Butler gives a great performance. The first half of the film about his rise was intriguing the second half towards the end of his career was a lot slower.
So it's very stylish and interesting, although big fans of Elvis might be a little disappointed on how much of Elvis it a actually covers. Also how accurate it is as well. For others it was a good incite if maybe not as detailed as you might expect.
Merissa (13194 KP) rated Blue Skies (Collier's Creek) in Books
Oct 30, 2023
BLUE SKIES is the last book in the multi-author series, Collier's Creek.
Kit and Felix are both new in town, although Felix is just returning to his roots. Both of them have baggage, although Kit's is more tragic than Felix's. Kit has writer's block and hopes new scenery will clear it. Felix needs to regroup and figure out what he wants to do with his life. When these two meet, it is definitely a case of opposites attract, although that does change.
As with all of the books in this series, it is low angst. I enjoyed their story, although I didn't quite 'feel' it as much as some of the others. I did enjoy the cameos from Logan though, and hearing the update of how he and Coop are getting on. They still remain my favourite pairing of Collier's Creek.
This was a sweet and sometimes spicy read, that felt like coming home. I have enjoyed this addition to the series and have no hesitation in recommending it.
** 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 30, 2023
Kit and Felix are both new in town, although Felix is just returning to his roots. Both of them have baggage, although Kit's is more tragic than Felix's. Kit has writer's block and hopes new scenery will clear it. Felix needs to regroup and figure out what he wants to do with his life. When these two meet, it is definitely a case of opposites attract, although that does change.
As with all of the books in this series, it is low angst. I enjoyed their story, although I didn't quite 'feel' it as much as some of the others. I did enjoy the cameos from Logan though, and hearing the update of how he and Coop are getting on. They still remain my favourite pairing of Collier's Creek.
This was a sweet and sometimes spicy read, that felt like coming home. I have enjoyed this addition to the series and have no hesitation in recommending it.
** 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 30, 2023
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated The Adam Project (2022) in Movies
Mar 22, 2022
I really didn't get a lot of enjoyment out of The Adam Project, but in the interest of fairness, it's not without its merits. Most importantly, I can only imagine how much of a blast kids will have watching it. It's family friendly presentation, copious amounts of Ryan Reynolds, and it's main young protagonist make it a done deal in that respect. It's helped along by some snappy action moments, some good humoured dialogue, and some genuinely touching character beats.
Personally though, the jarring editing and conflicting tones are hard to look past. The comedy and seriousness aren't well balanced at all, and the often and sudden switching of on screen proceedings feel scrappy. It's comes across messy. Zoe Saldana crops up about halfway through and feels like she's walked in from a completely different movie. The CGI is hit and miss. Sometimes it's ok, sometimes it's ropey, and then there's poor Catherine Keener, who is subjected to possibly the worst bout of digital de-aging I can recall.
The Adam Project isn't a completely awful experience, it's just a very cookie cutter sci-fi action that feels instantly forgettable. As mentioned though, kids will undoubtedly love it, which can only be a positive.
Personally though, the jarring editing and conflicting tones are hard to look past. The comedy and seriousness aren't well balanced at all, and the often and sudden switching of on screen proceedings feel scrappy. It's comes across messy. Zoe Saldana crops up about halfway through and feels like she's walked in from a completely different movie. The CGI is hit and miss. Sometimes it's ok, sometimes it's ropey, and then there's poor Catherine Keener, who is subjected to possibly the worst bout of digital de-aging I can recall.
The Adam Project isn't a completely awful experience, it's just a very cookie cutter sci-fi action that feels instantly forgettable. As mentioned though, kids will undoubtedly love it, which can only be a positive.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2398 KP) rated Murder on Union Square in Books
Jun 13, 2022
Murder in the Theater Means Trouble for Malloy
Frank and Sarah are upset to learn they can’t legally adopt Catherine, the little girl that Sarah has been caring for for several years, because, in the eyes of the law, Parnell Vaughn is her legal father. Fortunately, the actor is willing to sign his rights over to Frank and Sarah, but his fiancée wants some money from them. When Frank goes back to deliver the payment and get Parnell’s signature, he finds the actor dead in his dressing room. With Frank accused of the crime, he and Sarah have to clear his name. Who really murdered Parnell?
It's always a pleasure to pop back in on Sarah and Frank in 1899 New York City, and this book was no exception. I love the characters. As is often the case these days, we get parts of the story from four different points of view, and it is always easy to tell when we switch from one to the other. I did feel the plot wasn’t quite as good as usual for this series. There are a few twists and a strong climax, but it got bogged down in the middle. Still, fans will be happy to spend time with these characters we love. I know I did.
It's always a pleasure to pop back in on Sarah and Frank in 1899 New York City, and this book was no exception. I love the characters. As is often the case these days, we get parts of the story from four different points of view, and it is always easy to tell when we switch from one to the other. I did feel the plot wasn’t quite as good as usual for this series. There are a few twists and a strong climax, but it got bogged down in the middle. Still, fans will be happy to spend time with these characters we love. I know I did.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2398 KP) rated Of Manners and Murder in Books
Feb 8, 2023
Dear Miss Hermione, Can You Solve My Murder?
Violet Manville is shocked when her aunt tells her she writes the popular Miss Hermione advice column and then tells Violet that she is in charge of the column while she goes off to the continent. Among the first letters Violet receives is one from a young woman who thinks someone is trying to kill her. When Violet goes to try to help, she interrupts the woman’s funeral. Can Violet figure out what is happening?
I thought the first in this new series, set in Victoria England, sounded like fun. I am glad I picked it up because I was right. The characters are good, although Violet’s half-sister can be a bit shallow. I suspect that is on purpose, however. We do get a few scenes from her point of view, but the switch is always obvious. The plot is lots of fun and plenty to keep us engaged. I did feel Violet made a leap at the end, but the solution was logical. If you are looking for a fun premise for a new series, this is one to check out. I look forward to seeing where it goes from here.
I thought the first in this new series, set in Victoria England, sounded like fun. I am glad I picked it up because I was right. The characters are good, although Violet’s half-sister can be a bit shallow. I suspect that is on purpose, however. We do get a few scenes from her point of view, but the switch is always obvious. The plot is lots of fun and plenty to keep us engaged. I did feel Violet made a leap at the end, but the solution was logical. If you are looking for a fun premise for a new series, this is one to check out. I look forward to seeing where it goes from here.
Merissa (13194 KP) rated He Sees You When You're Sleeping in Books
Dec 10, 2020 (Updated Aug 8, 2023)
HE SEES YOU WHEN YOU'RE SLEEPING is a short, standalone, seasonal novel that is DARK! Kris is not all jolly and ho, ho, ho, but more menacing and deadly. He helps Jack as a child and sees him as time moves on. Jack grows up and still tries to do the right thing, although for him, life is also dangerous. Kris 'tries' to do the right thing, but will he learn his lesson in time?
What a brilliant short-story! I loved the lights and the Ghost of Christmas Future. Although short, this is powerful and reflects upon how life can be if circumstances are against you. It has the feel of a psychological thriller to it, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep your attention.
This was a fantastic seasonal read, so different from the warm and fuzzy stories you normally get. I thought the ending was unexpected and perfect, and so I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this amazing story.
* 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!
Dec 10, 2020
What a brilliant short-story! I loved the lights and the Ghost of Christmas Future. Although short, this is powerful and reflects upon how life can be if circumstances are against you. It has the feel of a psychological thriller to it, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep your attention.
This was a fantastic seasonal read, so different from the warm and fuzzy stories you normally get. I thought the ending was unexpected and perfect, and so I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this amazing story.
* 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!
Dec 10, 2020