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Merissa (11704 KP) rated The Kiss of Life (Soul Mate Rescued, #1) in Books
Apr 16, 2023
This is a fast-paced and action-packed story involving a young widow and a senator, among others. Her husband was killed thirteen months ago in what she presumed was a mugging but it turns out to be something completely different.
Elizabeth is a strong character from the start. She is being chased by two men but doesn't just cower and whimper but is constantly fighting back and looking for ways to escape. Senator John comes to her rescue, but she threatens to kick his ass if he doesn't give her some answers. I loved this part! The story then continues with action throughout as they try to figure out just what is going on within the timeframe they have, as well as trying to stay alive and have a new relationship.
Personally, I found the dialogue between John and Liz to be quite stilted at times, and the timing seemed 'off' on a couple of occasions too. Not that what was said, wouldn't have been said - just, would it have been said at that precise time? At other times, it flowed and seemed perfectly natural so it isn't something that happens throughout the book!
There is plenty to enjoy about this book and I, for one, am certainly looking forward to seeing more from Char Sharp and her Soul Mate Rescued series. Definitely recommended.
* 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!
Sep 26, 2015
Elizabeth is a strong character from the start. She is being chased by two men but doesn't just cower and whimper but is constantly fighting back and looking for ways to escape. Senator John comes to her rescue, but she threatens to kick his ass if he doesn't give her some answers. I loved this part! The story then continues with action throughout as they try to figure out just what is going on within the timeframe they have, as well as trying to stay alive and have a new relationship.
Personally, I found the dialogue between John and Liz to be quite stilted at times, and the timing seemed 'off' on a couple of occasions too. Not that what was said, wouldn't have been said - just, would it have been said at that precise time? At other times, it flowed and seemed perfectly natural so it isn't something that happens throughout the book!
There is plenty to enjoy about this book and I, for one, am certainly looking forward to seeing more from Char Sharp and her Soul Mate Rescued series. Definitely recommended.
* 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!
Sep 26, 2015
Becs (244 KP) rated The Third Act in Books
Sep 3, 2018
The history aspect. (2 more)
The storyline.
The characters and their stories.
Great young adult history read!
I received The Third Act by John Wilson as a read and review copy from Libray Thing Early Reviewers program for my full honest review.
I honestly loved reading this. It was fun, thrilling, and even fast-paced, the majority of the time. Would I change anything? Not at all. It was beautifully written for the history aspect of it and held my attention. Which is very surprising because I can never have my attention grabbed by history related books.
The cover of this little novel is really cool. I like how they have a faded ‘ghost of the past’ on the cover. I actually didn’t realize that it was there until I was about halfway through with the book. The plotline was one that I wasn’t sure I was going to like at first. But as I kept reading, the history of the Nanjing Massacre and the switching from the past to the present, drew my attention in like a mouse to cake crumbs. The characters weren’t as developed, but it worked for this storyline.
I honestly loved reading this. It was fun, thrilling, and even fast-paced, the majority of the time. Would I change anything? Not at all. It was beautifully written for the history aspect of it and held my attention. Which is very surprising because I can never have my attention grabbed by history related books.
The cover of this little novel is really cool. I like how they have a faded ‘ghost of the past’ on the cover. I actually didn’t realize that it was there until I was about halfway through with the book. The plotline was one that I wasn’t sure I was going to like at first. But as I kept reading, the history of the Nanjing Massacre and the switching from the past to the present, drew my attention in like a mouse to cake crumbs. The characters weren’t as developed, but it worked for this storyline.
Merissa (11704 KP) rated Death Kissed (Phoenix Rising #2) in Books
Nov 10, 2023
DEATH KISSED is the second book in the Phoenix Rising series, and we follow Mena, Aurelia's twin sister, as she is rescued from her torture.
I really felt for her as the world has changed a lot since she was taken, and she has been through so much that no one should have to deal with. Ash is just a great big lethal, loving teddy bear of a Wraith, determined to look after her and protect her, even though he knows she's more than capable of looking after herself. These two just make the perfect couple.
I also loved the overall story arc and how it moved forward. I think I had an allergic reaction to something when I was reading though, as my eyes started leaking. I think it was about the time John and Olivia were there. You know the part!
Honestly can't wait for Evan's story! A brilliant series that I am thoroughly enjoying.
** 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!
Nov 10, 2023
I really felt for her as the world has changed a lot since she was taken, and she has been through so much that no one should have to deal with. Ash is just a great big lethal, loving teddy bear of a Wraith, determined to look after her and protect her, even though he knows she's more than capable of looking after herself. These two just make the perfect couple.
I also loved the overall story arc and how it moved forward. I think I had an allergic reaction to something when I was reading though, as my eyes started leaking. I think it was about the time John and Olivia were there. You know the part!
Honestly can't wait for Evan's story! A brilliant series that I am thoroughly enjoying.
** 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!
Nov 10, 2023
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Annie's Recipe in Books
Jun 14, 2018
Annie’s Recipe by Lisa Jones Baker is the second book in the Hope Chest of Dreams series. Annie Mast and Levi Miller were childhood best friends. Then one day Levi was gone. Levi’s father, John, had broken the rules of the Ordnung and was shunned. John quickly packed up his family and moved away. Ten years later, Annie is at the wedding of Katie and Jeremiah when she notices an Englischer in the crowd. Upon closer inspection, she notices that it is Levi. They agree to meet at their special place at Pebble Creek. When they meet, it is like they have never been apart. Over the next few days, the two meet whenever Annie can get away. Levi wants to spend the rest of his life with Annie, but, there is a big obstacle in the way of their happiness. Levi does not feel he can return to Arthur, Illinois and live. He feels he will always be known as the son of the shunned man. Levi knows that Annie would not be happy in the Englisch world and asks if she would be willing to compromise. Annie’s heart, though, is in the Amish world where she grew up. Annie believes that God can work miracles and, if she is meant to be with Levi, God will find a way.
Annie’s Recipe is nicely written and is easy to read. The book reminds me of a sappy romance novel with Christian faith and theology tossed in. Annie’s journal entries remind me of those written by a lovesick teenager. Annie’s sponge cakes are mentioned frequently throughout the book.
I received an advanced reader's copy from Kensington Books and Zebra via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Annie’s Recipe is nicely written and is easy to read. The book reminds me of a sappy romance novel with Christian faith and theology tossed in. Annie’s journal entries remind me of those written by a lovesick teenager. Annie’s sponge cakes are mentioned frequently throughout the book.
I received an advanced reader's copy from Kensington Books and Zebra via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Rick Astley recommended Greatest Hits by Al Green in Music (curated)
Heathere' (25 KP) rated Busted Jukebox Volume 2 by Shovels & Rope in Music
Mar 17, 2018 (Updated Mar 17, 2018)
Shovels & Rope-Cover Songs
I don't usually like cover songs. I feel that if you are going to do a cover of someone's song, you should make it 'your own'. I love that Shovels & Rope made each track unique and had so many great singers help them out.
Tracks:
~Cleanup Hitter (feat. Brandi Carlile)
-original artist: Bill Carson
~Joey (feat. Nicole Atkins)
-original artist: Concrete Blonde
~Do You Love Me Now (feat. Rhett Miller)
-original artist: The Breeders
~Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain (feat. John Moreland)
-original artist: Willie Nelson
~Untitled 1 (feat. Matthew Logan Vasquez)
-original artist: Sigur Rós
~The Air That I Breathe (feat. Indianola)
-original artist: The Hollies
~I’m Your Man (feat. John Fullbright)
-original artist: Leonard Cohen
~Death Or Glory (feat. Hayes Carll)
-original artist: The Clash
~Epic (feat. Lera Lynn)
-original artist: Faith No More
~You Never Can Tell
-original artist: Chuck Berry
My favorite track is 'Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain'. I heard this song when I asked my Amazon Alexa to shuffle songs by Shovels & Rope. I put the song on repeat and purchased the album without hearing any of the other songs and I picked up Busted Jukebox Volume 1, as well. I'm a fan of Shovels & Rope and was surprised that I hadn't heard of these albums.
Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain, is a Willie Nelson song and this version, featuring John Moreland, is absolutely beautiful. My father, a Willie Nelson fan would have approved of this version. It's a song that makes it very hard to hold back the tears. If I'm being honest, I haven't been able to that, yet.
The most surprising track is Epic, a Faith No More song. It is so different from the original and I really like the different flow that Lera Lynn gave it. The song in it's cover form has given a slightly different meaning to the lyrics. The original was powerful and in your face while this version is powerful and haunting.
Other songs are originally by
I am so happy that I stumbled upon this and I can't wait to see what this amazing duo will bring us next!
Tracks:
~Cleanup Hitter (feat. Brandi Carlile)
-original artist: Bill Carson
~Joey (feat. Nicole Atkins)
-original artist: Concrete Blonde
~Do You Love Me Now (feat. Rhett Miller)
-original artist: The Breeders
~Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain (feat. John Moreland)
-original artist: Willie Nelson
~Untitled 1 (feat. Matthew Logan Vasquez)
-original artist: Sigur Rós
~The Air That I Breathe (feat. Indianola)
-original artist: The Hollies
~I’m Your Man (feat. John Fullbright)
-original artist: Leonard Cohen
~Death Or Glory (feat. Hayes Carll)
-original artist: The Clash
~Epic (feat. Lera Lynn)
-original artist: Faith No More
~You Never Can Tell
-original artist: Chuck Berry
My favorite track is 'Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain'. I heard this song when I asked my Amazon Alexa to shuffle songs by Shovels & Rope. I put the song on repeat and purchased the album without hearing any of the other songs and I picked up Busted Jukebox Volume 1, as well. I'm a fan of Shovels & Rope and was surprised that I hadn't heard of these albums.
Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain, is a Willie Nelson song and this version, featuring John Moreland, is absolutely beautiful. My father, a Willie Nelson fan would have approved of this version. It's a song that makes it very hard to hold back the tears. If I'm being honest, I haven't been able to that, yet.
The most surprising track is Epic, a Faith No More song. It is so different from the original and I really like the different flow that Lera Lynn gave it. The song in it's cover form has given a slightly different meaning to the lyrics. The original was powerful and in your face while this version is powerful and haunting.
Other songs are originally by
I am so happy that I stumbled upon this and I can't wait to see what this amazing duo will bring us next!
Eilidh G Clark (177 KP) rated Serious Sweet: Longlisted for the Man Booker Prize in Books
May 13, 2017
This novel is a work of art, l I would expect nothing less from a Man Booker contender.
‘The trouble was, that Margaret Thatcher got her drunk.’
A.L. Kennedy is an award-winning novelist, short story writer, and comedian. Her most recent novel, Serious Sweet, 2016, was long listed for this year’s Man Booker prize. Prior to reading the novel, I read some reviews and was fascinated by their diversity, comments ranging from disappointing to outright marvellous. This told me that I was about to embark on a work of art, after all I would expect nothing less from a Man Booker contender.
The novel is set in the heart of contemporary London and follows its two main characters, John Sigurdsson and Meg Williams through a single day. John is a fickle character, who at 59-year of age, has recently divorced is adulterous wife, and his professional life is hanging in the balance. Working as a senior civil servant in Westminster, he is attempting to uncover some pretty immoral activity. John has a talent for letter writing, this, he finds, is a romantic way to connect to women, whilst otherwise remaining inconspicuous. This is how he meets Meg.
Meg Williams is a 45-year-old bankrupt accountant, now working in an animal shelter because, ‘people who’ve been damaged by people go and work with salvaged animals because the animals have also been damaged by people’ (128). Meg is a victim of sexual abuse from a previous partner, something that we only learn in smatterings throughout the novel. A struggling alcoholic, Meg is on the wagon then off the wagon and blames her more recent fall on Margaret Thatcher, ‘The trouble was that Margaret Thatcher got her drunk.’
While the novel itself can be read as a political satire, and political corruption is plentiful in the narrative, I feel it is simply a back-story. The real story is the unfolding of the human consciousness and the power of the mind. Kennedy shows the reader the power of will through the thoughts of each character, stripping them back to their rawest and purest selves, and showing real courage and hope.
When John and Meg eventually meet at the end of the novel, it is not without some supercharged emotional turmoil. Connecting initially through letter writing, however, allowed the characters to open up their inner thoughts and feelings and gave a platform to be open and honest without the restrictions of reality. This, I believe, is where hope is born in the story.
Watching these two characters evolve was a real delight for me and I feel that Kennedy did the novel justice. You can almost feel each character battle with their own heads while their consciousness’ begins to intertwine. And let us not forget those beautifully written vignettes between chapters. Kennedy has written a wonderful novel, and Serious Sweet, I believe was worthy of its Man Booker place.
A.L. Kennedy is an award-winning novelist, short story writer, and comedian. Her most recent novel, Serious Sweet, 2016, was long listed for this year’s Man Booker prize. Prior to reading the novel, I read some reviews and was fascinated by their diversity, comments ranging from disappointing to outright marvellous. This told me that I was about to embark on a work of art, after all I would expect nothing less from a Man Booker contender.
The novel is set in the heart of contemporary London and follows its two main characters, John Sigurdsson and Meg Williams through a single day. John is a fickle character, who at 59-year of age, has recently divorced is adulterous wife, and his professional life is hanging in the balance. Working as a senior civil servant in Westminster, he is attempting to uncover some pretty immoral activity. John has a talent for letter writing, this, he finds, is a romantic way to connect to women, whilst otherwise remaining inconspicuous. This is how he meets Meg.
Meg Williams is a 45-year-old bankrupt accountant, now working in an animal shelter because, ‘people who’ve been damaged by people go and work with salvaged animals because the animals have also been damaged by people’ (128). Meg is a victim of sexual abuse from a previous partner, something that we only learn in smatterings throughout the novel. A struggling alcoholic, Meg is on the wagon then off the wagon and blames her more recent fall on Margaret Thatcher, ‘The trouble was that Margaret Thatcher got her drunk.’
While the novel itself can be read as a political satire, and political corruption is plentiful in the narrative, I feel it is simply a back-story. The real story is the unfolding of the human consciousness and the power of the mind. Kennedy shows the reader the power of will through the thoughts of each character, stripping them back to their rawest and purest selves, and showing real courage and hope.
When John and Meg eventually meet at the end of the novel, it is not without some supercharged emotional turmoil. Connecting initially through letter writing, however, allowed the characters to open up their inner thoughts and feelings and gave a platform to be open and honest without the restrictions of reality. This, I believe, is where hope is born in the story.
Watching these two characters evolve was a real delight for me and I feel that Kennedy did the novel justice. You can almost feel each character battle with their own heads while their consciousness’ begins to intertwine. And let us not forget those beautifully written vignettes between chapters. Kennedy has written a wonderful novel, and Serious Sweet, I believe was worthy of its Man Booker place.
Ross (3282 KP) rated A Time of Blood in Books
Mar 11, 2019
Exciting, action-packed fantasy
** Disclosure - I received a free advance copy of this from the publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review **
A Time of Blood is the second book in John Gwynne's second series and I can happily say this is his best yet in my opinion.
The action carries on from the previous book with the evil Kadoshim minions rising up and trying to get back to power. The forces of good also start to muster, though there are still divisions and suspicions between the various groups which hamper their successes.
Drem, the trapper, really develops into a brilliant hero character without any prophecy nonsense for once, and surrounds himself with a strong cast of enjoyable diverse companions.
The first half of the book sees Drem and his companions travelling to escape the evil horde and warn others of the uprising they have witnessed. This journey is non-stop action and a thrill to read.
Meanwhile we have the recently airborne Riv who is battling with politics and prejudice to retake her place in the army. These chapters are much slower paced but vital.
The balance between chapters and characters in the book allow Gwynne to fit the story in while keeping the action flowing at a good pace.
A very enjoyable and exciting read.
A Time of Blood is the second book in John Gwynne's second series and I can happily say this is his best yet in my opinion.
The action carries on from the previous book with the evil Kadoshim minions rising up and trying to get back to power. The forces of good also start to muster, though there are still divisions and suspicions between the various groups which hamper their successes.
Drem, the trapper, really develops into a brilliant hero character without any prophecy nonsense for once, and surrounds himself with a strong cast of enjoyable diverse companions.
The first half of the book sees Drem and his companions travelling to escape the evil horde and warn others of the uprising they have witnessed. This journey is non-stop action and a thrill to read.
Meanwhile we have the recently airborne Riv who is battling with politics and prejudice to retake her place in the army. These chapters are much slower paced but vital.
The balance between chapters and characters in the book allow Gwynne to fit the story in while keeping the action flowing at a good pace.
A very enjoyable and exciting read.
Christine A. (965 KP) rated Hark! the Herald Angels Scream: An Anthology in Books
Jan 22, 2019
Anthology of Christmas or winter themed horror stories
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
I waited until closer to the holiday to read this book and, with all of the rushing involved with the season, forgot to post my review. The Christmas season may be over, but it is still winter, so grab a cup of hot chocolate and be prepared to be entertained.
Hark! The Herald Angels Scream by Edited by Christopher Golden is an "anthology of all-new short fiction from some of the most talented and original writers of horror today." Included are eighteen stories of Christmas or winter themed horror from authors: Kelley Armstrong, Christopher Golden, Elizabeth Hand, Michael Koryta, Sarah Langan, Joe R. Lansdale, Tim Lebbon, Sarah Lotz, Jonathan Maberry, Josh Malerman, Seanan McGuire, John M. McIlveen, James A. Moore, Sarah Pinborough, Angela Slatter, Scott Smith,Thomas E. Sniegoski, and Jeff Strand.
The cover quickly bring to mind "Tales from the Crypt", a campy, horror anthology television series with a memorable narrator, Crypt Keeper. The stories written could have been been portrayed in any of the episodes. As with "Tales from the Crypt", the stories in "Hark! The Herald Angels Scream" were creepy, funny, chilling, gruesome, dark, and definitely worth your time.
The stories are well written and stand alone.
I waited until closer to the holiday to read this book and, with all of the rushing involved with the season, forgot to post my review. The Christmas season may be over, but it is still winter, so grab a cup of hot chocolate and be prepared to be entertained.
Hark! The Herald Angels Scream by Edited by Christopher Golden is an "anthology of all-new short fiction from some of the most talented and original writers of horror today." Included are eighteen stories of Christmas or winter themed horror from authors: Kelley Armstrong, Christopher Golden, Elizabeth Hand, Michael Koryta, Sarah Langan, Joe R. Lansdale, Tim Lebbon, Sarah Lotz, Jonathan Maberry, Josh Malerman, Seanan McGuire, John M. McIlveen, James A. Moore, Sarah Pinborough, Angela Slatter, Scott Smith,Thomas E. Sniegoski, and Jeff Strand.
The cover quickly bring to mind "Tales from the Crypt", a campy, horror anthology television series with a memorable narrator, Crypt Keeper. The stories written could have been been portrayed in any of the episodes. As with "Tales from the Crypt", the stories in "Hark! The Herald Angels Scream" were creepy, funny, chilling, gruesome, dark, and definitely worth your time.
The stories are well written and stand alone.
Merissa (11704 KP) rated The Heart of Everton Inn (Betwixt the Sea and Shore, #2) in Books
Oct 18, 2022
Return to the Orkney Islands and the Selkies as the story continues...
THE HEART OF EVERTON INN is the second book in the Betwixt the Sea and Shore series and it runs concurrently alongside book one. This means that you will see things through Adaira's eyes as they happen to Briony or any of the other villagers. You will also see things that happened with Adaira that you didn't see before.
This series is so well-researched, it shines through every scene. I love the village characters, the scenery, the relationships. It's all so clearly defined and makes for a gripping read.
Adaira and John have their ups and downs as they try to have a relationship but it seems as though the world is against them. Even though there is an age gap, it is clear that these two will fit together if only they are allowed.
This was a brilliant addition to the series but it does end on a cliffhanger, so just consider yourself forewarned. I can't wait to see what happens next. 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!
This series is so well-researched, it shines through every scene. I love the village characters, the scenery, the relationships. It's all so clearly defined and makes for a gripping read.
Adaira and John have their ups and downs as they try to have a relationship but it seems as though the world is against them. Even though there is an age gap, it is clear that these two will fit together if only they are allowed.
This was a brilliant addition to the series but it does end on a cliffhanger, so just consider yourself forewarned. I can't wait to see what happens next. 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!