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ClareR (5879 KP) rated Machines Like Me in Books
May 25, 2019
Androids and an alternate 1980s Britain
I’ve been vacillating between 6 and 7/10 since I’ve finished this. I really liked parts of it - the robot, Adam, learning his way in the world, how he falls in love. Parts of it I found exceptionally frustrating. Why would you spend £84,000 and then ignore the Android for days? Why would you want nothing to do with it once it’s ‘awake’ and learning? Why bother at all!
I thought the alternate 1980s Britain was quite interesting - how we would potentially have reacted to a defeat during the Falklands war and the repercussions. And what would Alan Turing have been like if he hadn’t committed suicide?
The thing is, I didn’t particularly like either Charlie or Miranda (the lead human protagonists). Neither were likeable and treated Adam with contempt and suspicion, which grated on me. I usually like a book where I don’t like the main character, but there was something about Charlie that made me put the book down on several occasions, swearing to myself that I wouldn’t pick it up,again. Bit I did, and I think Adam, and Miranda’s backstory is to blame.
And as for Miranda. Well. I wasn’t convinced about her suddenly needing to foster/ adopt Mark, a small boy who is abandoned on their doorstep. It was just so unlikely.
I don’t know. I’ve read other Ian McEwan books that I’ve loved, but this one really didn’t do it for me on the whole. You can’t love them all, I suppose.
I thought the alternate 1980s Britain was quite interesting - how we would potentially have reacted to a defeat during the Falklands war and the repercussions. And what would Alan Turing have been like if he hadn’t committed suicide?
The thing is, I didn’t particularly like either Charlie or Miranda (the lead human protagonists). Neither were likeable and treated Adam with contempt and suspicion, which grated on me. I usually like a book where I don’t like the main character, but there was something about Charlie that made me put the book down on several occasions, swearing to myself that I wouldn’t pick it up,again. Bit I did, and I think Adam, and Miranda’s backstory is to blame.
And as for Miranda. Well. I wasn’t convinced about her suddenly needing to foster/ adopt Mark, a small boy who is abandoned on their doorstep. It was just so unlikely.
I don’t know. I’ve read other Ian McEwan books that I’ve loved, but this one really didn’t do it for me on the whole. You can’t love them all, I suppose.
Gareth von Kallenbach (980 KP) rated Slender: The Arrival in Video Games
Jul 4, 2019
An Awful Experience All Around
A brief history for those who are not aware (courtesy of Wikipedia):
“The Slender Man (also known as Slenderman) is a fictional supernatural character that originated as a creepypasta internet meme… Stories of Slender Man commonly feature him stalking, abducting or traumatizing people, particularly children. The Slender Man is no confined to a single narrative, but appears in many works of fiction, typically composed online.”
Slender: The Arrival (which we’ll just refer to as The Arrival moving forward) is the official video game adaptation of Slender Man. Blue Isle studios developed the game to bring us improved visuals, great replay value, and a brand new storyline. These should combine into survival horror at its best. But sadly, it does not. The Arrival encourages exploration and the philosophy of scaring the living daylights out of you. It just doesn’t. Now, truth be told this genre is not typically my bread and butter, but I came into this game with hopeful expectations, but soon found myself wanting more than the game could offer.
First, you are thrown into the game without any instruction or opening. Just head down the road, though. It seems easy enough. I did appreciate the way they worked credits into this opening sequence though, as you are shown the developers and the team that worked on the game. Once you get through this, you come upon a house where you will explore the rooms to find notes scattered throughout the house giving you more information on your back story. Sparing spoilers, essentially the story revolves around a shared trauma from your youth. Once you leave the house, you press on, turning on some generators along your path.
You’ll come across the second house after crossing a river, where I encountered some of the strangeness I assume is part of the experience. Glitching visuals, weird creatures that seemed to disappear when you shine your flashlight upon them, that sort of thing. It could have been a bug, or bugs, but doing a little digging online it seems I was not the only one to experience the same. There wasn’t really any action to be had. A little disheartening.
There’s not much challenge with The Arrival. You will, at some point, encounter the Slender Man in the game. I went straight toward him, and nothing really happened. Unfortunately, it’s a bad byproduct of these games. If it doesn’t scare you, even in the slightest, you’re just left with a stagnant experience while you are running from point to point to read lore.
It took me nearly 2 hours to finish the game, though I suspect those without toddler twins may get through it a bit faster. Suffice it to say, I wish I had those 2 hours back. I never really felt the tension that would cause fear or even nervousness. The shaky cam visual of the game certainly didn’t help. Essentially, you are playing through the eyes of the camera you are holding, complete with “recording” indicator and battery level (you can turn this off). As you walk the camera bobs back and forth a little bit, and as you run it does so a little faster. I understand what they were trying to accomplish here, but it was executed so poorly. I found myself constantly trying to correct this with the joycon thinking it was simply drift. It was super distracting.
Slender: The Arrival failed to give a complete game worthy of the price tag, even at its current price tag of $9.99 on the eShop. That’s not to say you won’t enjoy it, especially if you scare VERY easily or are just a fan of the Slender Man himself. It’s just that combine a wonky control system, very little instruction, and no real tension building moments, and you have a dud of game in my book.
1 out of 5
http://sknr.net/2019/06/28/slender-the-arrival-for-nintendo-switch/
“The Slender Man (also known as Slenderman) is a fictional supernatural character that originated as a creepypasta internet meme… Stories of Slender Man commonly feature him stalking, abducting or traumatizing people, particularly children. The Slender Man is no confined to a single narrative, but appears in many works of fiction, typically composed online.”
Slender: The Arrival (which we’ll just refer to as The Arrival moving forward) is the official video game adaptation of Slender Man. Blue Isle studios developed the game to bring us improved visuals, great replay value, and a brand new storyline. These should combine into survival horror at its best. But sadly, it does not. The Arrival encourages exploration and the philosophy of scaring the living daylights out of you. It just doesn’t. Now, truth be told this genre is not typically my bread and butter, but I came into this game with hopeful expectations, but soon found myself wanting more than the game could offer.
First, you are thrown into the game without any instruction or opening. Just head down the road, though. It seems easy enough. I did appreciate the way they worked credits into this opening sequence though, as you are shown the developers and the team that worked on the game. Once you get through this, you come upon a house where you will explore the rooms to find notes scattered throughout the house giving you more information on your back story. Sparing spoilers, essentially the story revolves around a shared trauma from your youth. Once you leave the house, you press on, turning on some generators along your path.
You’ll come across the second house after crossing a river, where I encountered some of the strangeness I assume is part of the experience. Glitching visuals, weird creatures that seemed to disappear when you shine your flashlight upon them, that sort of thing. It could have been a bug, or bugs, but doing a little digging online it seems I was not the only one to experience the same. There wasn’t really any action to be had. A little disheartening.
There’s not much challenge with The Arrival. You will, at some point, encounter the Slender Man in the game. I went straight toward him, and nothing really happened. Unfortunately, it’s a bad byproduct of these games. If it doesn’t scare you, even in the slightest, you’re just left with a stagnant experience while you are running from point to point to read lore.
It took me nearly 2 hours to finish the game, though I suspect those without toddler twins may get through it a bit faster. Suffice it to say, I wish I had those 2 hours back. I never really felt the tension that would cause fear or even nervousness. The shaky cam visual of the game certainly didn’t help. Essentially, you are playing through the eyes of the camera you are holding, complete with “recording” indicator and battery level (you can turn this off). As you walk the camera bobs back and forth a little bit, and as you run it does so a little faster. I understand what they were trying to accomplish here, but it was executed so poorly. I found myself constantly trying to correct this with the joycon thinking it was simply drift. It was super distracting.
Slender: The Arrival failed to give a complete game worthy of the price tag, even at its current price tag of $9.99 on the eShop. That’s not to say you won’t enjoy it, especially if you scare VERY easily or are just a fan of the Slender Man himself. It’s just that combine a wonky control system, very little instruction, and no real tension building moments, and you have a dud of game in my book.
1 out of 5
http://sknr.net/2019/06/28/slender-the-arrival-for-nintendo-switch/
Kirsten Myra Edwards (303 KP) rated The Masked Singer in TV
Feb 25, 2020
Guessing the singers in fun (2 more)
Some singers are really good
Great costumes
Not very know artists for some so even some reveals you wouldn't know who they are (1 more)
Some of the judging pannel were The
Unusual concept
The concept was very interesting and made you curious when you saw the trailer. When you watched the first episode though you began to wonder what you have just watched. It's only as you begin to watch further episodes you begin to get into the guessing game. Some of the singers were great and so unexpected. Also hats off to the costume department their costumes were great.
The only thing I found was some of the celebrities were very unknown so you would still wonder who they were after the reveal. Some of the judging panel did get on your nerves by the end so hopefully by next season there would be a change to that.
The only thing I found was some of the celebrities were very unknown so you would still wonder who they were after the reveal. Some of the judging panel did get on your nerves by the end so hopefully by next season there would be a change to that.
BookwormLea (3034 KP) rated The Exorcist in Phoenix Theatre (London, United Kingdom) in Shows
Jul 16, 2020
Fantastically terrifying!
I truly love a horror. Whether that is a book, movie or even a play as I found out after watching The Exorcist. It is so much more intriguing than the film! So very close in plot, nothing much is changed from the 'true' story it is based upon. But the sounds that echo throughout the theatre, draw you in and everyone disappears, leaving only yourself and the cast. The girl that plays Regan is so believable! She could have been possessed for real and I would have believed it! And unlike the film, I actually jumped! The lighting is crazy and the bass literally bounces your seat so you really feel it!!
What I also loved was how clever the stage setting was! It was all one set. Nothing moved or changed. It looked like a dollhouse and the only thing they did was switch the light on the room they were in. So clever and very effective!!! If you're ever in London, go see it!!!!
What I also loved was how clever the stage setting was! It was all one set. Nothing moved or changed. It looked like a dollhouse and the only thing they did was switch the light on the room they were in. So clever and very effective!!! If you're ever in London, go see it!!!!
Hazel (2934 KP) rated The Patient in Books
Apr 28, 2022
From the description, I was expecting an exciting and fast-paced thriller but this is not what I experienced; it was more a slow-burn domestic suspense/mystery/love affair that although wasn't what I anticipated, it kept me engaged most of the time.
I found the characters weren't particularly likeable and whilst this doesn't usually bother me that much, they did start to grate on my nerves which affected how I felt about them and the story as it developed.
The story itself was an interesting mystery but nothing overly exciting or different. The writing was a little over descriptive at times but it plodded on ok.
Overall, not the most exciting book I have ever read but not the worst either but, once again, there are many more positive reviews out there so give it a go if you enjoy romance books with a bit of mystery thrown in.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
I found the characters weren't particularly likeable and whilst this doesn't usually bother me that much, they did start to grate on my nerves which affected how I felt about them and the story as it developed.
The story itself was an interesting mystery but nothing overly exciting or different. The writing was a little over descriptive at times but it plodded on ok.
Overall, not the most exciting book I have ever read but not the worst either but, once again, there are many more positive reviews out there so give it a go if you enjoy romance books with a bit of mystery thrown in.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Tom Chaplin recommended Tapestry by Carole King in Music (curated)
Merissa (12911 KP) rated Over the Falls (Ryder Bay #1) in Books
Jan 17, 2019
Over the Falls (Ryder Bay #1) by Jordan Ford
Over the Falls is the first book in the Ryder Bay series, and it's one I can't wait to continue. It is full of those extreme feelings you can only get when you are young, plus hardships, and a dash of mystery. I have read 'Dear Diary' and loved the insight into Harley. I'm glad I don't have to wait until book three to find out what happened in her past, and yet I am totally thrilled to find out how she moves forward. I've already found some of it out in this book, but I just know there is so much more to come.
The characters are all extremely well written, whether you like them or not! There is one in particular who I think I know what happened, but don't want to say anything yet, because no doubt Jordan Ford will put a twist on it, and I shall be wrong! ? The situations are all completely believable, the conversations are natural, and the relationships are perfect - whether they are new or have been there for a while.
I devoured this book in one sitting. After I started it, I just couldn't put it down. With a slight cliffhanger ending, it has definitely left me wanting more. I will absolutely be continuing with this series, and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
* 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!
The characters are all extremely well written, whether you like them or not! There is one in particular who I think I know what happened, but don't want to say anything yet, because no doubt Jordan Ford will put a twist on it, and I shall be wrong! ? The situations are all completely believable, the conversations are natural, and the relationships are perfect - whether they are new or have been there for a while.
I devoured this book in one sitting. After I started it, I just couldn't put it down. With a slight cliffhanger ending, it has definitely left me wanting more. I will absolutely be continuing with this series, and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
* 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!
ashezbookz (32 KP) rated The Gifted (A Joanne Kilbourn Mystery #14) in Books
Jul 5, 2018
Mid range rating - I think I would have found it more entertaining had I read the first books in the series as I was a little lost with all of the characters and all of the names being thrown around - there was a LOT of people in this book.
Overall it was alright - there were moments that were suspenseful and that was fun, there were moments that were glaringly obvious (the whodunit was not as fun as it was a wee bit obvious to me) but the surprise was cool at some moments.
I think the art aspect was cool too, I havent read many books that were heavy in that, though it was also heavy in politics and I didn't like that much.
I also didn't like the authors repetitive use of landmarks/streets/city names - using the city name repeatedly in just a few pages was excessive to me, I get you were trying to make this hometown based or saskatchewan based (believe me I'm from Saskatoon, shout out to the "small towns") but excessive use of Regina and the house address was just frustratingly annoying. There was also the reference to November 24th and plus 10.. have you lived in Saskatchewan?? it's November 22 today and it's going to be -11 feels like -18 .. and the Riders have you seen a game...........that's all I have to say about that one *snort*
Overall it was alright - there were moments that were suspenseful and that was fun, there were moments that were glaringly obvious (the whodunit was not as fun as it was a wee bit obvious to me) but the surprise was cool at some moments.
I think the art aspect was cool too, I havent read many books that were heavy in that, though it was also heavy in politics and I didn't like that much.
I also didn't like the authors repetitive use of landmarks/streets/city names - using the city name repeatedly in just a few pages was excessive to me, I get you were trying to make this hometown based or saskatchewan based (believe me I'm from Saskatoon, shout out to the "small towns") but excessive use of Regina and the house address was just frustratingly annoying. There was also the reference to November 24th and plus 10.. have you lived in Saskatchewan?? it's November 22 today and it's going to be -11 feels like -18 .. and the Riders have you seen a game...........that's all I have to say about that one *snort*
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Keturah (The Sugar Baron's Daughters, #1) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Keturah has one of the most unique settings that I have ever read in Historical Fiction; 1773 in the West Indies. The sisters Banning have been through so much. They have lost both their parents, are threatened with financial ruin, and set sail "unchaperoned" all the way to the Caribbean to save their sugar plantation.
I really enjoyed the unique setting, the island life of the 1770s, the cultural differences, the hardships, and the romance. The author does address the issue of abuse throughout the story. The pain, the effects, the healing process, which I found very well done. Although I can not relate to Keturah's situation, I know that many have, and I pray that God uses this story to speak to and bring healing to them.
The reason for my rating is for the simple fact that the story moved very slow. I had a really hard time staying focused on the story while reading. My mind would wander too easily. The writing quality was good overall, just not a fast enough pace to keep me fully engaged.
If you are looking for a unique story, I would recommend you give Keturah a try. Just because it was too slow for me, doesn't mean it will be for you.
I received a complimentary copy of Keturah from the publisher through Litfuse. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I really enjoyed the unique setting, the island life of the 1770s, the cultural differences, the hardships, and the romance. The author does address the issue of abuse throughout the story. The pain, the effects, the healing process, which I found very well done. Although I can not relate to Keturah's situation, I know that many have, and I pray that God uses this story to speak to and bring healing to them.
The reason for my rating is for the simple fact that the story moved very slow. I had a really hard time staying focused on the story while reading. My mind would wander too easily. The writing quality was good overall, just not a fast enough pace to keep me fully engaged.
If you are looking for a unique story, I would recommend you give Keturah a try. Just because it was too slow for me, doesn't mean it will be for you.
I received a complimentary copy of Keturah from the publisher through Litfuse. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
MoMoBookDiary (20 KP) rated One Day in December: A Christmas Love Story in Books
Oct 1, 2018
I loved the idea of this book and it sounded just my perfect romance read. However it was so much more than I could have hoped for! I read it in one sitting and found the lovely sunny day had gone dark and wet by the time I moved from the sofa - but oh! what a day I had in the world of this amazingly beautiful love story!
The story is told over a ten year period, beginning in December 2008 which is where the Christmas part comes in. The story is told in sort of diary form from the characters perspectives and jumps many months at a time so you get the good bits whilst the story unfolds.
It sounded like it could be yet another love triangle with the obvious difficulties however it is so unlike anything I have read before. It is a book for all ages – no nasty double crossing, no detailed erotic sex scenes or nasty, bitchy comments we are so used to being part of daily lives – however, there are many tear-worthy moments in this absolutely wonderful true love story.
The author has found a way of telling a story in today’s times without having all the drama that we are so used to seeing in these types of situations. Everyone deals with events in a very mature way and forgiving way which ensures that whilst reading you can live in a feel-good bubble. I did plenty of bubbling while reading and many sharp intakes of breath at times too. It is a story of love, heartache, friendship and the unbreakable bonds.
I can honestly say I will be recommending this to everyone I speak to in person, on twitter, Facebook and anywhere else that I can. It’s amazingly beautiful – you really should go read it!
Thanks to Josie Silver, NetGalley and Penguin for giving me the opportunity to read and review prior to the paperback release in October 2018.
The story is told over a ten year period, beginning in December 2008 which is where the Christmas part comes in. The story is told in sort of diary form from the characters perspectives and jumps many months at a time so you get the good bits whilst the story unfolds.
It sounded like it could be yet another love triangle with the obvious difficulties however it is so unlike anything I have read before. It is a book for all ages – no nasty double crossing, no detailed erotic sex scenes or nasty, bitchy comments we are so used to being part of daily lives – however, there are many tear-worthy moments in this absolutely wonderful true love story.
The author has found a way of telling a story in today’s times without having all the drama that we are so used to seeing in these types of situations. Everyone deals with events in a very mature way and forgiving way which ensures that whilst reading you can live in a feel-good bubble. I did plenty of bubbling while reading and many sharp intakes of breath at times too. It is a story of love, heartache, friendship and the unbreakable bonds.
I can honestly say I will be recommending this to everyone I speak to in person, on twitter, Facebook and anywhere else that I can. It’s amazingly beautiful – you really should go read it!
Thanks to Josie Silver, NetGalley and Penguin for giving me the opportunity to read and review prior to the paperback release in October 2018.