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Deborah (162 KP) rated Richard III in Books
Dec 21, 2018
Baldwin has written extensively about this period, so I had high expectations of his latest offering. The illustrations in this volume are great and the portrait of Richard is one which I don't believe I've seen before. The author also makes some sensible comments. So far so good, but I do feel that it doesn't go quite far enough. It's not a long book and a very easy read, but Baldwin seems a bit too keen to been seen as objective to commit himself as having too much of an opinion either way. Most of what is presented is done in a factual way and without a lot of analysis, I felt. Most of the evidence I felt was on the positive side, or at least not damning.
Beyond saying he thinks it unlikely that Richard has his nephews murdered (even his detractors agree that he was not stupid), he doesn't really go into this a lot, or examine Elizabeth Woodville's reasons for letting her daughters out of sanctuary or her later reaction to the Simnel rebellion. I know he has written separate volumes on both Elizabeth Woodville and Richard of York, the younger of her sons, but the issue is almost completely sidestepped here which is interesting, as this is really the question lying at the heart of The Great Debate.
So, my overall opinion was this this was very readable, fantastically illustrated and good, as far as it went. It would make a good introduction to the subject. Personally, I would have liked it to have gone a bit further. I couldn't help but compare it to Paul Murray Kendall's book. It's some time since I read it, but I was left with an enormous feel for the period and a sense of colour and life and I didn't quite get that from Baldwin.
Beyond saying he thinks it unlikely that Richard has his nephews murdered (even his detractors agree that he was not stupid), he doesn't really go into this a lot, or examine Elizabeth Woodville's reasons for letting her daughters out of sanctuary or her later reaction to the Simnel rebellion. I know he has written separate volumes on both Elizabeth Woodville and Richard of York, the younger of her sons, but the issue is almost completely sidestepped here which is interesting, as this is really the question lying at the heart of The Great Debate.
So, my overall opinion was this this was very readable, fantastically illustrated and good, as far as it went. It would make a good introduction to the subject. Personally, I would have liked it to have gone a bit further. I couldn't help but compare it to Paul Murray Kendall's book. It's some time since I read it, but I was left with an enormous feel for the period and a sense of colour and life and I didn't quite get that from Baldwin.
Kate (493 KP) rated The Birthday List in Books
Oct 19, 2020
I loved this book. It was a romance but with a sad side to it. This made it feel more real. Some romance books can be a bit samey but this was slightly different. It took a couple of chapters to get into but once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I felt what Poppy was trying to achieve stopped her moving on but she felt it would help her to move on and ultimately it did. I loved the characters in the book except maybe Jamie's parents but their attitude can be understood.
I'm glad Poppy opens up to Cole and accepts his help in completing the list. It really brings them together. The author's descriptions of the characters and scenes made the book come to life. I could really see everything one and every place in my minds eye. In doing the list Poppy grew as a person and she became a much stronger person. She had to relearn how to love and let people on and she really did that. Before the end I was worried and I thought it was all over but I'm glad it changed around. The book had an epilogue and I love when books have this as it doesn't leave you wondering what happened. I think it ties everything up nicely. This book was me smile despite the initial sadness.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. It is definitely has an intended audience of 25's up. Anyone is having a rough time I would recommend them to read this book as it goes to show how things can and will get better. And things/people will come along when you lease expect them to.
I'm glad Poppy opens up to Cole and accepts his help in completing the list. It really brings them together. The author's descriptions of the characters and scenes made the book come to life. I could really see everything one and every place in my minds eye. In doing the list Poppy grew as a person and she became a much stronger person. She had to relearn how to love and let people on and she really did that. Before the end I was worried and I thought it was all over but I'm glad it changed around. The book had an epilogue and I love when books have this as it doesn't leave you wondering what happened. I think it ties everything up nicely. This book was me smile despite the initial sadness.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. It is definitely has an intended audience of 25's up. Anyone is having a rough time I would recommend them to read this book as it goes to show how things can and will get better. And things/people will come along when you lease expect them to.
Carolyn Miller has done it again! She has created a wonderfully written, hope-inspiring novel that is sure to sweet all her fans, new and old alike, off their feet and plop them down in a whole new world filled with uniquely witty characters. I was once again in awe of the way Ms. Miller captured my whole heart and left me wanting more.
In this addition to the series, we get Miss DeLancey's story. I loved her in the first books, and I loved her in this book. She was dealing with so much, from scandal to rejection (I've been there on both accounts!), and I felt her emotions as my own. She just wanted to be loved for herself and it was quite hard with her circumstances. But, then Ms. Miller brings Ben into the story, and oh my goodness did I ever fall in love! I loved his character and cheered for him and Miss DeLancey so much through the story.
A story of hope, forgiveness and relying on God in times when you want to give up, Ms. Miller has concluded this series with a bang. Five stars, hats off and two thumbs up, this is one book you want on your wish list this holiday season! I can't wait to see what Ms. Miller brings her fans next. If they are books like this one, then I know I'm in for a witty, charming regency novel that will sweep me to the heart of England. Well done, Ms. Miller!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
In this addition to the series, we get Miss DeLancey's story. I loved her in the first books, and I loved her in this book. She was dealing with so much, from scandal to rejection (I've been there on both accounts!), and I felt her emotions as my own. She just wanted to be loved for herself and it was quite hard with her circumstances. But, then Ms. Miller brings Ben into the story, and oh my goodness did I ever fall in love! I loved his character and cheered for him and Miss DeLancey so much through the story.
A story of hope, forgiveness and relying on God in times when you want to give up, Ms. Miller has concluded this series with a bang. Five stars, hats off and two thumbs up, this is one book you want on your wish list this holiday season! I can't wait to see what Ms. Miller brings her fans next. If they are books like this one, then I know I'm in for a witty, charming regency novel that will sweep me to the heart of England. Well done, Ms. Miller!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated What Hope Remembers (Misty Willow #3) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
A story of redemption, second chances and characters that weasel their way into your heart to stay, Ms. Alexander's What Hope Remembers is fantastically done. I instantly transported to Misty Willow(which, in my mind, wasn't hard to do since I live in Willow Spring!) and settle right in for the long haul of Amy and Gabe's story. I loved watching the story unfold and felt like I was among family.
Amy, Gabe and Aunt Tess are my favorites! I loved Gabe and Aunt Tess' characters the most! They really fit well in the story. Amy's character was also a great fit. I loved the way Ms. Alexander chiseled her and her flaws. Watching them come to terms with their past, present and their future really took my breath away, in a good way, of course! Gabe's not so perfect past really opened my heart to him. I can't imagine going through what he went through, and the mama bear in me wanted to wrap him up in a big old hug!
From start to finish, you'll be completely wrapped up and taken on a whirl wind ride of hope! It is the third book in the series, yet the first one I read. It's easily a stand alone novel and I highly recommend it, with 4 stars to all! It's a story of long ago loves, soul searching, learning to forgive yourself and trust in God. Great job, Ms. Alexander! Can't wait to read more of your books. <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/revell-reads-review-what-hope-remembers-by-johnnie-alexander/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Amy, Gabe and Aunt Tess are my favorites! I loved Gabe and Aunt Tess' characters the most! They really fit well in the story. Amy's character was also a great fit. I loved the way Ms. Alexander chiseled her and her flaws. Watching them come to terms with their past, present and their future really took my breath away, in a good way, of course! Gabe's not so perfect past really opened my heart to him. I can't imagine going through what he went through, and the mama bear in me wanted to wrap him up in a big old hug!
From start to finish, you'll be completely wrapped up and taken on a whirl wind ride of hope! It is the third book in the series, yet the first one I read. It's easily a stand alone novel and I highly recommend it, with 4 stars to all! It's a story of long ago loves, soul searching, learning to forgive yourself and trust in God. Great job, Ms. Alexander! Can't wait to read more of your books. <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/revell-reads-review-what-hope-remembers-by-johnnie-alexander/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Deadly Proof (Atlanta Justice #1) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
Holy smokes! Ms. Dylan is AH-mazing!!! I was so excited to get this book and review it. I sat down the minute I got it and DEVOURED it! I was done almost as quickly as I began it. Her writing style is just THAT good. The intensity that she creates the story with, I felt every bit of it. It was a wonderful time, reading this story!
I have always had a fascination with crime dramas and the legalities of it all, so when I had the chance to review this for the author, I jumped on it. The plot line was intruiging and the characters sounded absolutely fantastic. I was right. Kate and Landon's characters were both beautifully chiseled for their roles and instantly stole my heart. The sparks that pass between them are awesome and the suspenseful twists to the story really bring out the intensity of both of these characters as the heart pounding, page turning scenes come to life.
This book is in my top 10 favorite reads of 2017. It is a wonderful story, filled with edge of your seat, fast paced circumstances. Learning to lean on God in times of crisis, and focusing on the future and not the past really make this book beyond 5 star worthy. I can't wait to see what book 2 in this incredible new series has in store for us. Hats off and gavels down to the awesometastic author, Rachel Dylan!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers/author and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
I have always had a fascination with crime dramas and the legalities of it all, so when I had the chance to review this for the author, I jumped on it. The plot line was intruiging and the characters sounded absolutely fantastic. I was right. Kate and Landon's characters were both beautifully chiseled for their roles and instantly stole my heart. The sparks that pass between them are awesome and the suspenseful twists to the story really bring out the intensity of both of these characters as the heart pounding, page turning scenes come to life.
This book is in my top 10 favorite reads of 2017. It is a wonderful story, filled with edge of your seat, fast paced circumstances. Learning to lean on God in times of crisis, and focusing on the future and not the past really make this book beyond 5 star worthy. I can't wait to see what book 2 in this incredible new series has in store for us. Hats off and gavels down to the awesometastic author, Rachel Dylan!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers/author and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Neon's Nerd Nexus (360 KP) rated The Old Man and the Gun (2018) in Movies
May 13, 2019
Shot to the heart
#theoldmanandthegun is not only a #lovely fresh take on the #heist genre its also a #wonderful finale to #robertredford's career in #film too. Set mostly in the early #80s the film does a remarkable job of feeling #vintage/old fashioned from the way its shot, to the use of film grain, its #charming style, the soundtrack & the sets. Everything is so lovingly #crafted & it all flows together so #beautifully that I felt transported back in time right from its opening. Watching this film was also such a pleasant experience, its got such a warmth to it & its so ridiculously #charming/stylish & #heartfelt that I couldnt help #smiling most of its run time. TOMATG is a modern film set in the past that plays out more like an old #wildwest film & its not only clearly inspired by old #western movies but its also its self a great homage to Robert Redfords career & magnificent look back through the history of film & how far we have advanced technologically. Acting is stellar all round with Redford giving such a likeable, charming & #cheeky preformance that you can really tell he had fun with this character. #caseyaffleck is also great playing a cop that has everything but still isnt #happy in life & the scenes Redford & him share together are golden. A film about #passion, #drive, #love, living life to its fullest, never growing up & change thats full of such heart/soul that its not only powerful & moving but tremendous #fun/full of motivating & inspiring themes. See it I guarantee you will leave smiling. #odeonlimitless #odeon #nostalgic #retro #film #classic #mondaymotivation #filmbuff #filmcritic
Elli H Burton (1288 KP) rated Bumblebee (2018) in Movies
Sep 19, 2019 (Updated Sep 19, 2019)
A transformers film that everyone can enjoy. (2 more)
It actually fits in as a prequel to the first transformers.
Actually made me smile, a feel good film!
Pleasantly surprised
Firstly, thank you Smashbomb for my free Bumblebee DVD!
I was sceptical with yet ANOTHER transformers film, but after seeing it happens before Sam Witwicky met bumblebee i felt like it was worth a shot!
It doesn't follow the same pattern as the other installments of the franchise (in a good way) it's actually got some heart behind the story. Theres action but not too much, enough of a build up to set in motion what happens in Transformers 1.
I love how they showed what happened to bumblebees voice, how he found his Camero alias and how his relationship with Humans managed to become so good. It was a prequel that was made as if it was actually made before the first, like all prequels should be (but unfortunately it's not always the case). It doesn't create anymore questions, start new, never to be finished storylines, it was a straight forward set up.
I honestly thought I'd have another flop on my hands but genuinely enjoyed it and would watch it again.
I didn't feel as though it was another stab at a worn out franchise either, it was fresh and heart warming, a movie in it's own right. Someone could come in completely new to Transformers and the whole world it has created and fall in love with it from this, like I said, it fits in perfectly.
Definitely recommend guys, it's actually a lovely action film!
I was sceptical with yet ANOTHER transformers film, but after seeing it happens before Sam Witwicky met bumblebee i felt like it was worth a shot!
It doesn't follow the same pattern as the other installments of the franchise (in a good way) it's actually got some heart behind the story. Theres action but not too much, enough of a build up to set in motion what happens in Transformers 1.
I love how they showed what happened to bumblebees voice, how he found his Camero alias and how his relationship with Humans managed to become so good. It was a prequel that was made as if it was actually made before the first, like all prequels should be (but unfortunately it's not always the case). It doesn't create anymore questions, start new, never to be finished storylines, it was a straight forward set up.
I honestly thought I'd have another flop on my hands but genuinely enjoyed it and would watch it again.
I didn't feel as though it was another stab at a worn out franchise either, it was fresh and heart warming, a movie in it's own right. Someone could come in completely new to Transformers and the whole world it has created and fall in love with it from this, like I said, it fits in perfectly.
Definitely recommend guys, it's actually a lovely action film!
Merissa (11950 KP) rated Tor (The Hawks #4) in Books
Nov 30, 2021 (Updated Jul 10, 2023)
TOR is the fourth book in The Hawks series, and you really do need to read the other books first. Not only is there an overall story arc but the stories are just so d*mn good!!!
Tor and Keeley have both been hurt by the people in their lives. And in a sort of similar way, although they have reacted differently. Keeley always wants to run, and Tor never thinks that anyone will stay. Be prepared, because these two broke my heart!
Tor's pain about killed me, I'll be honest here. I felt his pain, his lockdown on his feelings, that all-encompassing numbness. And I really hoped Keeley would break through it. But then Keeley has her own pain, her own numbness, which means these two have trouble communicating, which leads to misunderstandings. What I loved though, is that even though they both get things wrong, they realise that (sometimes with a bit of help!) and work to try and put things right.
Each book in this series wins my heart, every time! And it leaves me wanting the next one immediately! Next one being Reece. I'm going to stock up on tissues because, after this one, I think I'm going to need them. Do you know what? I'll cope. Bring it on!
Sheer brilliance and absolutely and utterly 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!
Nov 30, 2021
Tor and Keeley have both been hurt by the people in their lives. And in a sort of similar way, although they have reacted differently. Keeley always wants to run, and Tor never thinks that anyone will stay. Be prepared, because these two broke my heart!
Tor's pain about killed me, I'll be honest here. I felt his pain, his lockdown on his feelings, that all-encompassing numbness. And I really hoped Keeley would break through it. But then Keeley has her own pain, her own numbness, which means these two have trouble communicating, which leads to misunderstandings. What I loved though, is that even though they both get things wrong, they realise that (sometimes with a bit of help!) and work to try and put things right.
Each book in this series wins my heart, every time! And it leaves me wanting the next one immediately! Next one being Reece. I'm going to stock up on tissues because, after this one, I think I'm going to need them. Do you know what? I'll cope. Bring it on!
Sheer brilliance and absolutely and utterly 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!
Nov 30, 2021
Acanthea Grimscythe (300 KP) rated The Jesus Man in Books
May 16, 2018
The Jesus Man by Keith Anthony Baird is a tough book for me to rate, if I’m being honest. It’s part of why, despite completing it last week, I’ve taken so long to write up my review. The book isn’t an easy read by any means, especially with its vast amounts of purple prose. It does, however, have a uniquely intriguing plot.
One of the major deciding factors for me when I read a book is its ability to make me feel emotion. I want a connection with the characters, even if it’s a seething hatred that I feel in the depths of my heart. With The Jesus Man, I felt loathing and disdain, but nothing beyond that. I felt disconnected, for the most part. The characters seemed to me as if they were in limbo between fully and halfway developed.
In regards to plot, Baird does an excellent job. As a horror fan, I end up reading a lot of apocalyptic books. Most of the time, the cause is a viral outbreak of zombies. It’s a cliché we deal with far too often and it’s been beaten to death time and time again. Baird goes an entirely new route, with the dredges of Hell returning to claim what should be theirs. Described as the Fallen, we know these creatures as the angels cast from Heaven in the wake of God’s love for mankind stoking rebellion among them. It’s an interesting take on the world’s post-nuclear was end and I feel that Baird did a wonderful job in this area of his book.
I do have to take a moment to appreciate one beautiful perk to Baird’s ornate writing style: his depiction of gory acts is absolutely stunning. I’m a sucker for splatterpunk, so this served as a nice treat for me. While his characters felt lacking to me (which I discovered was the author’s intent post-read), his vivid descriptions (even if heavy-handed) are breathtaking and nightmare invoking.
I’ve danced between a two and four for this book several times, so ultimately I’m going to go with a three. While I loved the concept, the difficulty of reading this book made it hard for me to enjoy.
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of the major deciding factors for me when I read a book is its ability to make me feel emotion. I want a connection with the characters, even if it’s a seething hatred that I feel in the depths of my heart. With The Jesus Man, I felt loathing and disdain, but nothing beyond that. I felt disconnected, for the most part. The characters seemed to me as if they were in limbo between fully and halfway developed.
In regards to plot, Baird does an excellent job. As a horror fan, I end up reading a lot of apocalyptic books. Most of the time, the cause is a viral outbreak of zombies. It’s a cliché we deal with far too often and it’s been beaten to death time and time again. Baird goes an entirely new route, with the dredges of Hell returning to claim what should be theirs. Described as the Fallen, we know these creatures as the angels cast from Heaven in the wake of God’s love for mankind stoking rebellion among them. It’s an interesting take on the world’s post-nuclear was end and I feel that Baird did a wonderful job in this area of his book.
I do have to take a moment to appreciate one beautiful perk to Baird’s ornate writing style: his depiction of gory acts is absolutely stunning. I’m a sucker for splatterpunk, so this served as a nice treat for me. While his characters felt lacking to me (which I discovered was the author’s intent post-read), his vivid descriptions (even if heavy-handed) are breathtaking and nightmare invoking.
I’ve danced between a two and four for this book several times, so ultimately I’m going to go with a three. While I loved the concept, the difficulty of reading this book made it hard for me to enjoy.
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Expatriates in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Lee's latest novel intricately details the lives of three American women living in the expatriate community in Hong Kong. Margaret, who moved to Hong Kong with her husband and three children, is dealing with a horrible loss and how it has affected her entire being. Hilary, wealthy and married, is adrift in life - struggling to have a baby and floundering in her marriage. And Mercy, the youngest, is a Korean American trying to recover from her own recent horrors and figure out where she belongs. Their lives and stories are linked in small and large ways, as they each traverse the difficulties of life and the consequences of their actions.
It sounds trite - the linked stories of three women, but the book is nearly magical. The chapters are compelling and amazing: you truly feel as if you are there, with the characters, getting completely caught up in their lives and stories. It's one of those books where not a lot happens, yet in some ways, everything happens, and it's mesmerizing somehow. Lee has a unique voice for each character and they each become clearer and defined as the book goes on; they are so themselves that you can't ever imagine not knowing them, or how they would react to a given situation. Much of what happens is sad- in fact, there were times where I felt like my heart was physically hurting reading - but there is much redemption in the book as well. I truly found parts of it to be beautiful.
The ending, which I felt like could have been too easy, or conversely, easily ruined, felt perfect somehow. My only complaint with this book? That it ended. After I finished it, I found myself standing at the sink later that evening, washing some dishes, and thinking, "oh at least I get to read my book later tonight" and then feeling nothing but profound disappointment that the book was over, and I was done being a part of these characters' lives. Lovely, poignant book - highly recommend.
I must note that I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley (thanks!), though I wasn't approved until after it was published. The good news for you is that this novel is available now (as of 1/12/16) in all the various publication forms. You can check out a review of this book and many others on my <a href="http://justacatandabookatherside.blogspot.com/">blog</a>;.
It sounds trite - the linked stories of three women, but the book is nearly magical. The chapters are compelling and amazing: you truly feel as if you are there, with the characters, getting completely caught up in their lives and stories. It's one of those books where not a lot happens, yet in some ways, everything happens, and it's mesmerizing somehow. Lee has a unique voice for each character and they each become clearer and defined as the book goes on; they are so themselves that you can't ever imagine not knowing them, or how they would react to a given situation. Much of what happens is sad- in fact, there were times where I felt like my heart was physically hurting reading - but there is much redemption in the book as well. I truly found parts of it to be beautiful.
The ending, which I felt like could have been too easy, or conversely, easily ruined, felt perfect somehow. My only complaint with this book? That it ended. After I finished it, I found myself standing at the sink later that evening, washing some dishes, and thinking, "oh at least I get to read my book later tonight" and then feeling nothing but profound disappointment that the book was over, and I was done being a part of these characters' lives. Lovely, poignant book - highly recommend.
I must note that I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley (thanks!), though I wasn't approved until after it was published. The good news for you is that this novel is available now (as of 1/12/16) in all the various publication forms. You can check out a review of this book and many others on my <a href="http://justacatandabookatherside.blogspot.com/">blog</a>;.