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HLD (99 KP) rated Thirteen Reasons Why: (TV Tie-in) in Books
Jun 26, 2018
It's engaging (1 more)
As a show - without the b.s. of pretending they care about suicide prevention, it is actually quite good
Mixed feelings about it
As someone who has struggled with suicidal thoughts for over a decade, I cannot say that this show brings any kind of awareness. It is a show; nothing more, nothing less. Don't omit this as the holy grail of mental health advertising, because it isn't.
It is an interesting show with an interesting plot. Too many viewers, and those involved with production, felt the need to blow the meaning of '13 reasons why' out of proportion.
It is not going to shine a light on those in your family that want to take their own life. I would also argue it is not going to influence someone to take their own life.
Not everybody is the same, I know. But I was engaged until the very end, and the urge I have had to end my life was no greater and no lesser after having watched the show.
It is an interesting show with an interesting plot. Too many viewers, and those involved with production, felt the need to blow the meaning of '13 reasons why' out of proportion.
It is not going to shine a light on those in your family that want to take their own life. I would also argue it is not going to influence someone to take their own life.
Not everybody is the same, I know. But I was engaged until the very end, and the urge I have had to end my life was no greater and no lesser after having watched the show.
Kristin (149 KP) rated Waffles and Pancakes in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a charming story about bullying and its effects, as told through the pictures and words of hamsters. Waffles and Pancakes haven't been acting themselves ever since a certain trip to the vet, where they met a guinea pig named Oscar. He bullies them and makes them feel bad and afraid. Once their owners figure out what's wrong, they talk to the boy who owns Oscar, and he's mean to them for coming to his house. The boys learn he doesn't have many friends, and he's a bully to make up for his hurt feelings at being alone. They all decide to be friends, including Oscar, Waffles, and Pancakes, and the story has a very happy ending.
This would be a great book to share with younger kids and older ones alike. Everybody has been involved in bullying in some way, either as the bully, the one being picked on, or the friend of either. It's time to put a stop to bullying, and I believe this story would be an excellent starting point to have that discussion. Wonderfully written and illustrated!
5 stars
This is such a charming story about bullying and its effects, as told through the pictures and words of hamsters. Waffles and Pancakes haven't been acting themselves ever since a certain trip to the vet, where they met a guinea pig named Oscar. He bullies them and makes them feel bad and afraid. Once their owners figure out what's wrong, they talk to the boy who owns Oscar, and he's mean to them for coming to his house. The boys learn he doesn't have many friends, and he's a bully to make up for his hurt feelings at being alone. They all decide to be friends, including Oscar, Waffles, and Pancakes, and the story has a very happy ending.
This would be a great book to share with younger kids and older ones alike. Everybody has been involved in bullying in some way, either as the bully, the one being picked on, or the friend of either. It's time to put a stop to bullying, and I believe this story would be an excellent starting point to have that discussion. Wonderfully written and illustrated!
5 stars
Merissa (13840 KP) rated Scion's Surrender (Seven Seals #2) in Books
Jul 23, 2018
Scion's Surrender (Seven Seals #2) by Traci Douglass
Scion's Surrender is the second book in the Seven Seals series, and we meet Chago. He is the Scion of War, and has moved to be close to his host, Irena. She has fallen in love with Chago over the period of three years, but doesn't think she has a chance. That is, until Chago has a bit too much to drink, and confesses his feelings, and what he is.
Like the first book, this is a fast-paced novella that still has plenty of story for you sink your teeth into. Kagan and Mira's story is also involved with this (as the overall story arc) so we see progression with that too, plus appearances by them.
A very good continuation of the series, with a great story for Chago and Irena, a catch up for Kagan and Mira, and an introduction to Wyck. Absolutely recommended by me.
* 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!
Like the first book, this is a fast-paced novella that still has plenty of story for you sink your teeth into. Kagan and Mira's story is also involved with this (as the overall story arc) so we see progression with that too, plus appearances by them.
A very good continuation of the series, with a great story for Chago and Irena, a catch up for Kagan and Mira, and an introduction to Wyck. Absolutely recommended by me.
* 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!
Suzanne is a fictionalized biography of the author's grandmother. Anais Barbeau-Lavalette's grandmother, the eponymous Suzanne, abandoned Barbeau-Lavalette's mother and uncle at a young age and went on to live on the fringes of important artistic and political movements throughout most of her lifetime.
From the first line, I was hooked. Barbeau-Lavalette's writing is beautiful and poetic. Suzanne is written in the second person and the reader is invited to empathize with a mother who left her children, a woman who alienates herself from family while searching for her place in society.
This book is more the author's way of learning to love her estranged grandmother than a straightforward biography. Many feelings are evoked for Suzanne, empathy, anger, disgust, and admiration to name a few. But in some ways, along with the author, we start to understand Suzanne and maybe forgive her.
I really enjoyed Suzanne and found it hard to put down. Suzanne Meloche is a very interesting figure who I loved learning about. Reading this book gave me some insight into history but mostly an insight into parts of the human experience that are sometimes difficult to understand.
From the first line, I was hooked. Barbeau-Lavalette's writing is beautiful and poetic. Suzanne is written in the second person and the reader is invited to empathize with a mother who left her children, a woman who alienates herself from family while searching for her place in society.
This book is more the author's way of learning to love her estranged grandmother than a straightforward biography. Many feelings are evoked for Suzanne, empathy, anger, disgust, and admiration to name a few. But in some ways, along with the author, we start to understand Suzanne and maybe forgive her.
I really enjoyed Suzanne and found it hard to put down. Suzanne Meloche is a very interesting figure who I loved learning about. Reading this book gave me some insight into history but mostly an insight into parts of the human experience that are sometimes difficult to understand.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Secret by Alli Fitz in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Alli Fitz is a talented singer-songwriter, YouTuber, and comedian. Not too long ago, she released a lovely urban-pop tune, entitled, “Secret”.
“Last night you called me to get it off your mind. ‘Cause we both know that her love ain’t quite like mine. Sooner or later you’ll be back for more and I’ll be waiting just like every time before.” – lyrics
‘Secret’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who desires to be with a guy who is in a romantic relationship with another woman.
Apparently, he’s confused, therefore, his lover, the woman, reveals to him that she’s a better fit for him than his current girlfriend.
Later, she urges him to let go of his girlfriend so they can be together as a couple. But in the meantime, she promises to keep what they got going on a secret.
‘Secret’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with an urban-pop aroma.
“This song describes the mood and feelings you get when you’re trying to convince that special someone that you’re better than the person they’re currently with. We’ve all been there.” – Alli Fitz
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/alli-fitz-secret/
“Last night you called me to get it off your mind. ‘Cause we both know that her love ain’t quite like mine. Sooner or later you’ll be back for more and I’ll be waiting just like every time before.” – lyrics
‘Secret’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who desires to be with a guy who is in a romantic relationship with another woman.
Apparently, he’s confused, therefore, his lover, the woman, reveals to him that she’s a better fit for him than his current girlfriend.
Later, she urges him to let go of his girlfriend so they can be together as a couple. But in the meantime, she promises to keep what they got going on a secret.
‘Secret’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with an urban-pop aroma.
“This song describes the mood and feelings you get when you’re trying to convince that special someone that you’re better than the person they’re currently with. We’ve all been there.” – Alli Fitz
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/alli-fitz-secret/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated 555 by Ainjo in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Ainjo is a singer-songwriter based in San Diego, California. Not too long ago, she released a chill contemporary R&B tune, entitled, “Toxic”, which is featured on her 5-track EP, entitled, “555”.
“What you wanna fuss and fight for? You can make ya way out the door. I don’t really understand why we keep on arguing. This is toxic you’re so hectic. I do not recommend this sh*t.” – lyrics
‘Toxic’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who shares a very toxic relationship with her significant other.
Apparently, she’s unhappy because she’s tired of riding on the same emotional rollercoaster attached to their failing relationship.
‘Toxic’ contains a relatable storyline and ultra-sultry vocals. Also, the likable tune possesses laidback instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and neo-soul elements.
“My goal is to create songs people can relate to and turn on whenever they want to get into their feelings.” – Ainjo
Ainjo began her music career in 2017 when she released her debut single, entitled, “Cash Flaws”.
Her music inspirations influences include great artists such as Nina Simone, Amy Winehouse, and Eartha Kitt.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/ainjo-toxic/
“What you wanna fuss and fight for? You can make ya way out the door. I don’t really understand why we keep on arguing. This is toxic you’re so hectic. I do not recommend this sh*t.” – lyrics
‘Toxic’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who shares a very toxic relationship with her significant other.
Apparently, she’s unhappy because she’s tired of riding on the same emotional rollercoaster attached to their failing relationship.
‘Toxic’ contains a relatable storyline and ultra-sultry vocals. Also, the likable tune possesses laidback instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and neo-soul elements.
“My goal is to create songs people can relate to and turn on whenever they want to get into their feelings.” – Ainjo
Ainjo began her music career in 2017 when she released her debut single, entitled, “Cash Flaws”.
Her music inspirations influences include great artists such as Nina Simone, Amy Winehouse, and Eartha Kitt.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/ainjo-toxic/
Merissa (13840 KP) rated City of Ashes (The Mortal Instruments, #2) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
Book 2 in the Mortal Instruments series carries on where Book 1 left off but you are given a little breather before the action starts.
The story continues with Valentine trying to do his evil dude stuff and pretty much succeeding; Jace is trying to come to terms with who his father is, who he really is and his feelings for Clary; and Clary is also trying to do the same as Jace but also coping with the fact that her mother is in a coma with little or no chance of recovery especially seeing as she's in a mundane hospital!
All of the characters continue to have depth and grow in this book and there are enough twists and turns to still keep you gripped. This series is turning out to be absolutely fantastic and I don't see why it should be limited to the Young Adult genre!!!
I am glad that I have seen the film City of Bones but only because every time I read one of the character's names I get a image flash in my mind! YUM! Really enjoying this series and off to Book 3.
The story continues with Valentine trying to do his evil dude stuff and pretty much succeeding; Jace is trying to come to terms with who his father is, who he really is and his feelings for Clary; and Clary is also trying to do the same as Jace but also coping with the fact that her mother is in a coma with little or no chance of recovery especially seeing as she's in a mundane hospital!
All of the characters continue to have depth and grow in this book and there are enough twists and turns to still keep you gripped. This series is turning out to be absolutely fantastic and I don't see why it should be limited to the Young Adult genre!!!
I am glad that I have seen the film City of Bones but only because every time I read one of the character's names I get a image flash in my mind! YUM! Really enjoying this series and off to Book 3.
Lee KM Pallatina (951 KP) rated Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019) in Movies
Aug 8, 2019
Spiderman 2.........the 3rd one. (Or is it the 4th, there was 2 tv movies?)
Spiderman 2 sees tobey Maguire return as the best Spiderman to date and...........oh wait.......
Spiderman far from home sees tom holland return as ultimate Spiderman for ps2....no wait....tom holland returns as peter parker aka Spiderman who once again does a great job at avoiding nick fury and his feelings, but squeezes into a new array of suits, while trying to enjoy a school trip and mourn the loss of his tech savvy father figure Tony Stark.
While trying to balance the life of a hero and the life of a teen life every hero (lol) the arrival of a mysterious new "hero" dubbed mysterio by parkers class mates, things are quite what they seem and as the lives of everyone of his classmates come under threat, it's upto spidey to uncover the truth and figure out how to use his peter tingle haha.
A great movie that does the Endgame aftermath some justice.
Fantastic SFX, great story formed, great easter eggs and references.
Spiderman far from home sees tom holland return as ultimate Spiderman for ps2....no wait....tom holland returns as peter parker aka Spiderman who once again does a great job at avoiding nick fury and his feelings, but squeezes into a new array of suits, while trying to enjoy a school trip and mourn the loss of his tech savvy father figure Tony Stark.
While trying to balance the life of a hero and the life of a teen life every hero (lol) the arrival of a mysterious new "hero" dubbed mysterio by parkers class mates, things are quite what they seem and as the lives of everyone of his classmates come under threat, it's upto spidey to uncover the truth and figure out how to use his peter tingle haha.
A great movie that does the Endgame aftermath some justice.
Fantastic SFX, great story formed, great easter eggs and references.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Bewitched on Bourbon Street (Jade Calhoun #7) in Books
Aug 11, 2019
Loved it!
Jade loves her new apartment--until a ghost joins her in the shower.
When empath Jade Calhoun moves into an apartment above a strip bar on Bourbon Street, she expects life to get interesting. What she doesn't count on is making friends with an exotic dancer, attracting a powerful spirit, and developing feelings for Kane, her sexy landlord.
Being an empath has never been easy on Jade's relationships. It's no wonder she keeps her gift a secret. But when the ghost moves from spooking Jade to terrorizing Pyper, the dancer, it's up to Jade to use her unique ability to save her. Except she'll need Kane's help--and he's betrayed her with a secret of his own--to do it. Can she find a way to trust him and herself before Pyper is lost?
<strong>Loved it</strong>
I for one loved this book. It was funny , spooky full of eye candy both male and female. It was just fun to read. I enjoy reading books when the main female role has a backbone and Made has just that! Supported by some very strong characters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Recommended

When empath Jade Calhoun moves into an apartment above a strip bar on Bourbon Street, she expects life to get interesting. What she doesn't count on is making friends with an exotic dancer, attracting a powerful spirit, and developing feelings for Kane, her sexy landlord.
Being an empath has never been easy on Jade's relationships. It's no wonder she keeps her gift a secret. But when the ghost moves from spooking Jade to terrorizing Pyper, the dancer, it's up to Jade to use her unique ability to save her. Except she'll need Kane's help--and he's betrayed her with a secret of his own--to do it. Can she find a way to trust him and herself before Pyper is lost?
<strong>Loved it</strong>
I for one loved this book. It was funny , spooky full of eye candy both male and female. It was just fun to read. I enjoy reading books when the main female role has a backbone and Made has just that! Supported by some very strong characters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Recommended

Merissa (13840 KP) rated What Happens in London (Adventures Abroad) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
I received this book from Bloomsbury Spark in return for a fair and honest review.
Sarah is working as an au pair in London when things don't quite go according to plan and she is fired. She meets Carson as she browses in a bookstore and can't believe that he is interested in her.
This is a very good novella as I was left feeling uncertain of my feelings for Carson, which is a good thing as it leads you into the series. On the one hand, he seems like he cares for Sarah but there is still an element of 'what's really going on' as you read it. Sarah is the one who comes across as trying very hard to break out of her shell, but she does things with someone she has only just met that I had slight trouble believing.
The ending of this novella will leave you questioning all that you know and leave you wanting the next book in this series immediately.
For a quick, light contemporary read, I can definitely recommend this book.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sarah is working as an au pair in London when things don't quite go according to plan and she is fired. She meets Carson as she browses in a bookstore and can't believe that he is interested in her.
This is a very good novella as I was left feeling uncertain of my feelings for Carson, which is a good thing as it leads you into the series. On the one hand, he seems like he cares for Sarah but there is still an element of 'what's really going on' as you read it. Sarah is the one who comes across as trying very hard to break out of her shell, but she does things with someone she has only just met that I had slight trouble believing.
The ending of this novella will leave you questioning all that you know and leave you wanting the next book in this series immediately.
For a quick, light contemporary read, I can definitely recommend this book.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!