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BookwormLea (3034 KP) rated The New Mutants (2020) in Movies
Aug 29, 2020 (Updated Aug 29, 2020)
Probably the worst Marvel movie I've seen. And i watched Dark Pheonix
Contains spoilers, click to show
I was so hyped for this movie! Have you seen the trailer? Movie gold! Well. Only half the trailer is actually stuff that happens. And the parts that do are the worst ones. The lead actress who plays Dani, is the most amateur actress ever. Her portrayal of an angry girl who just lost her family is probably the weakest I've seen. She literally looks like she just dropped her sandwich. And it sort of got better in the middle when we found out how they all found their mutations but then the end felt so rushed. Oh suprise! The weird girl you brought in last minute is the cause of the problems that only started when she got here! And the Russian girl who seemed real kick ass, had the most boring fear and her mutation that seemed cool, is pretty much just her being crazy. I kind of liked that the dragon was real to only her but then they went and CGId the crap out of it at the end fight scene. Why???
Oh and why can't they have a movie with no romance?? And oh gosh its 2020 so we just had to have the first Marvel Lesbian couple. Which again was rushed, they literally knew each other all of 4 days or something. And for a little wolfy Catholic girl who repents her sins weekly, she commits a lot of sins weekly. *eye roll*. Clichéd and boring. The worst marvel movie/ xmen film to date. Good job its a different timeline and there isn't going to be another one.
Oh and why can't they have a movie with no romance?? And oh gosh its 2020 so we just had to have the first Marvel Lesbian couple. Which again was rushed, they literally knew each other all of 4 days or something. And for a little wolfy Catholic girl who repents her sins weekly, she commits a lot of sins weekly. *eye roll*. Clichéd and boring. The worst marvel movie/ xmen film to date. Good job its a different timeline and there isn't going to be another one.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Dreamers in Books
Apr 4, 2019 (Updated Apr 8, 2019)
Beautiful, fascinating read
In Santa Lora, California, it all begins at the college. It precisely originates with Kara, who climbs into her bed and never wakes up. Her roommate, Mei, finds her, panicking when nothing rouses the girl. Then another girl falls asleep. And another. And then more. Soon classes are canceled. The kids on the floor are quarantined. And before you know it, things escalate from there. A mapping of brain activity shows that the sleepers are dreaming--dreaming extraordinarily active dreams in fact. But what are they dreaming of? And can anything stop "the sickness" from spreading?
"Whatever this is, it comes over them quietly; a sudden drowsiness, a closing of the eyes. Most of the victims are found in their beds."
I found this book to be utterly fascinating and such a wonderful change of pace. It was almost like reading a horror film at some points (and I'm not the type who likes scary movies). It was compulsively readable--I read it in five settings, completely drawn into the creepy, amazing, and sometimes horrifying story.
The book is told from the point of view of a variety of characters--all in short snippets--and through an often impassive narration style. Still, you grow to care for the few characters you do get to know: Mei and some of the other college students; kids Libby and Sara and their apocalyptic-fearing father; professors Ben and Annie and their new baby, Grace; a biology professor, Nathaniel, and his partner, Henry; and Dr. Catherine Cohen, a psychiatrist called in after the sickness starts.
There's really no way to describe this book, and I do not want to reveal too much about the plot. It's beautifully written, which is amazing, considering it's mostly a book about a near plague spreading through a town. The characters, even though their chapters are often short and sparse, are fully-formed. It's easy to get attached to them and pulled into their lives, which are so quickly altered by the sickness. And it's amazing how quickly the sickness changes life in Santa Lora: how a town can nearly become a war-zone due to illness. It was really intriguing to read about, especially when the narration style is so mesmerizing and presents such a creepy helplessness (I wish I could describe it better).
Overall, I really, really enjoyed this book. The subject matter was not what I usually read, but it was a fascinating, captivating read. I was drawn to the characters and the narration style. The book presented such an interesting scenario to think about too--what would happen if this occurred in real-life society? Walker's writing is beautiful, and I've already tracked down her novel, The Age of Miracles, on Paperbackswap.com, and look forward to reading it soon.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review (thank you!).
"Whatever this is, it comes over them quietly; a sudden drowsiness, a closing of the eyes. Most of the victims are found in their beds."
I found this book to be utterly fascinating and such a wonderful change of pace. It was almost like reading a horror film at some points (and I'm not the type who likes scary movies). It was compulsively readable--I read it in five settings, completely drawn into the creepy, amazing, and sometimes horrifying story.
The book is told from the point of view of a variety of characters--all in short snippets--and through an often impassive narration style. Still, you grow to care for the few characters you do get to know: Mei and some of the other college students; kids Libby and Sara and their apocalyptic-fearing father; professors Ben and Annie and their new baby, Grace; a biology professor, Nathaniel, and his partner, Henry; and Dr. Catherine Cohen, a psychiatrist called in after the sickness starts.
There's really no way to describe this book, and I do not want to reveal too much about the plot. It's beautifully written, which is amazing, considering it's mostly a book about a near plague spreading through a town. The characters, even though their chapters are often short and sparse, are fully-formed. It's easy to get attached to them and pulled into their lives, which are so quickly altered by the sickness. And it's amazing how quickly the sickness changes life in Santa Lora: how a town can nearly become a war-zone due to illness. It was really intriguing to read about, especially when the narration style is so mesmerizing and presents such a creepy helplessness (I wish I could describe it better).
Overall, I really, really enjoyed this book. The subject matter was not what I usually read, but it was a fascinating, captivating read. I was drawn to the characters and the narration style. The book presented such an interesting scenario to think about too--what would happen if this occurred in real-life society? Walker's writing is beautiful, and I've already tracked down her novel, The Age of Miracles, on Paperbackswap.com, and look forward to reading it soon.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review (thank you!).
Chelsea (166 KP) rated The Broken Girls in Books
May 2, 2018
The story goes back and forth between the past through the eyes of four roommates at Idlewild Hall, a creepy boarding school for outcast girls, and the present through a journalist named Fiona Sheridan. Fiona’s sister was murdered and found in the Idlewild Hall grounds, which had been long abandoned, and something never sat quite right with her. As Idlewild is bought and renovations begin, Fiona is drawn to it by her journalist instincts as well as the prospect of finding out what really happened to her sister.
This was a quick read. I loved the different narratives and learning about each of the Idlewild girls, as well as present-day Fiona and her desire to truly close her sister’s case. There was a big supernatural part that I didn’t expect, but it really worked. There were also some historical aspects that I enjoyed. The suspense and fear were so real in this book and kept me turning page after page because I had to find out what was going on! The stories you learn from all the different perspectives come together quite nicely and all questions are answered in a satisfying ending.
This was a quick read. I loved the different narratives and learning about each of the Idlewild girls, as well as present-day Fiona and her desire to truly close her sister’s case. There was a big supernatural part that I didn’t expect, but it really worked. There were also some historical aspects that I enjoyed. The suspense and fear were so real in this book and kept me turning page after page because I had to find out what was going on! The stories you learn from all the different perspectives come together quite nicely and all questions are answered in a satisfying ending.
Slow Burner
This series came highly recommended, but I didn't get into it straightaway. In all honesty, I failed to see what was so captivating about the object of the stalker's affections, Beck. She came across as vapid and irritating, and unable to take responsibility for herself.
If you are able to get past the annoying characters and suspend belief/overlook certain flaws, then it's actually a very good story, which is worth persevering with.
The story is told from the POV of the stalker, Joe, and we get a good insight into his reasoning and rationale, and watch how he twists situations and circumstances to his advantage.
I probably wouldn't have persevered after the first episode, mainly because I found Beck so annoying, but my husband was enjoying it so we carried on watching. I'm glad we did (although Beck doesn't get any less irritating, if I'm honest).
The twist in the final episode of the series was a real cliffhanger to end on; rather than loose ends being tied up, things are becoming more unravelled for Joe.
If you are able to get past the annoying characters and suspend belief/overlook certain flaws, then it's actually a very good story, which is worth persevering with.
The story is told from the POV of the stalker, Joe, and we get a good insight into his reasoning and rationale, and watch how he twists situations and circumstances to his advantage.
I probably wouldn't have persevered after the first episode, mainly because I found Beck so annoying, but my husband was enjoying it so we carried on watching. I'm glad we did (although Beck doesn't get any less irritating, if I'm honest).
The twist in the final episode of the series was a real cliffhanger to end on; rather than loose ends being tied up, things are becoming more unravelled for Joe.
Ashley Valencia (5 KP) rated Us (2019) in Movies
Apr 13, 2019
Jordan Peele is a very good storyteller. Much like Get Out, there is a message behind the story and the film is filled with easter eggs and some pretty amazing jokes. I laughed quite a bit throughout. The cast of this movie is amazing. Lupita Nyong'o does an exceptionally good job. The lead actor, whose name escapes me, was playing a character clearly modeled after Peele himself which just made him that much funnier. I kept wondering during the movie, having never seen the actor in anything else, if maybe they had grown up together or something because he sounds EXACTLY like Peele so I did some digging and found that it was a conscious acting decision which I applaud. It was a good choice and he played it so well. There is a twist ending, however, it seemed fairly obvious to me very early on in the film. My only real problem with the film is how much is left unexplained. It's understandable given how the story is being told but at the same time it's a bit frustrating when the film ends and you still have so many questions!
Merissa (13792 KP) rated Taking Root (The Eros Tales #1) in Books
Jul 30, 2019
Taking Root (Eros Tales #1) by Katherine McIntyre
TAKING ROOT is the first book in the Eros Tales, and this promises to be a fantastic new series.
Danny's life was turned upside down when she was seventeen. Since then, she has travelled the States, never setting down roots, and never knowing when she will be moving on. She is sent to a town so very close to where she grew up, knowing the risks she will have to take if she meets anyone she once knew. She wasn't counting on the steadfast stubbornness of one Adrian Dukas though.
This was brilliantly written, showing Danny's loneliness and the trials and tribulations she has lived through, without it detracting from the current set up. Also, you get enough details about her father to make it horrific, without it going into information overload. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading, and I found the pacing to be very smooth. With no plot holes I fell through, this was a gripping story from start to finish.
I loved the Dukas family, and I sincerely hope we will be seeing more of them. Absolutely recommended by me.
Danny's life was turned upside down when she was seventeen. Since then, she has travelled the States, never setting down roots, and never knowing when she will be moving on. She is sent to a town so very close to where she grew up, knowing the risks she will have to take if she meets anyone she once knew. She wasn't counting on the steadfast stubbornness of one Adrian Dukas though.
This was brilliantly written, showing Danny's loneliness and the trials and tribulations she has lived through, without it detracting from the current set up. Also, you get enough details about her father to make it horrific, without it going into information overload. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading, and I found the pacing to be very smooth. With no plot holes I fell through, this was a gripping story from start to finish.
I loved the Dukas family, and I sincerely hope we will be seeing more of them. Absolutely recommended by me.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Sweetwater (The Kihn #1) in Books
Jul 11, 2020
125 of 200
Kindle
Sweetwater ( The Kihn book 1)
By Rivi Jacks
They say you can never go home again that what we remember, is just that—a memory. Well, I’m on my way home, and I’m eager to test that theory. Little do I know that what awaits me will change my life forever.
Sofie Reece is returning to Sweetwater, a sleepy little town nestled in the Ozarks to discover evil waiting for her. As supernatural beings, both good and evil, arrive in town, so does Lucas Santiago. Sofie senses a danger in Lucas but finds herself powerfully attracted to him. Though intimidated by his sexual appeal and power, she cannot help but fall for Lucas. As both the danger and their passion intensify, Sofie is unaware that Lucas has a dark secret – a secret that will blow her world apart…
I loved it!! It was so addictive to read and unlike what I’ve read before. The supernatural element is not always forefront in the story which I found I liked. The different relationships in this book are just brilliant from the best friends and family to the romantic relationships. I’m so looking forward to the next book.
Kindle
Sweetwater ( The Kihn book 1)
By Rivi Jacks
They say you can never go home again that what we remember, is just that—a memory. Well, I’m on my way home, and I’m eager to test that theory. Little do I know that what awaits me will change my life forever.
Sofie Reece is returning to Sweetwater, a sleepy little town nestled in the Ozarks to discover evil waiting for her. As supernatural beings, both good and evil, arrive in town, so does Lucas Santiago. Sofie senses a danger in Lucas but finds herself powerfully attracted to him. Though intimidated by his sexual appeal and power, she cannot help but fall for Lucas. As both the danger and their passion intensify, Sofie is unaware that Lucas has a dark secret – a secret that will blow her world apart…
I loved it!! It was so addictive to read and unlike what I’ve read before. The supernatural element is not always forefront in the story which I found I liked. The different relationships in this book are just brilliant from the best friends and family to the romantic relationships. I’m so looking forward to the next book.
Fred (860 KP) rated X-Men: Dark Phoenix (2019) in Movies
Sep 2, 2019
A nice change from the over-rated Marvel powerhouse
So when this came out, reviews were either positive or negative across the board. You can put me in the positive column. It's not great, but it's good. It's just so nice of a change from the Marvel "got to see them all, even though they're not as good as we say" universe. It's so good to see a comic book movie that's under 2 hours, that moves along at a good pace & is not in the least boring. Let's get the negatives out of the way. Sophie Tucker is a terrible actress. She's terrible as Jean Grey. And although I did find the movie to move along at a good pace, I found the story lacking. They did cram one of comic's greatest stories into a short (for a superhero) film. Aside from Tucker, the acting was very good in the film. And let's just say, the X-Men, along with Magneto's gang, kick some serious ass in one of the best scenes I've seen in a hero flick. Like I said, the film is good, not great. Is it enjoyable? Definitely. Would I watch it again, yes.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2492 KP) rated Murder at Blackwater Bend in Books
May 13, 2022 (Updated May 13, 2022)
Fishing for Bodies
August 1905 finds American heiress Stella Kendrick and Viscount “Lyndy” Lyndhurst planning their wedding as they get to know each other better. Things hit a snag when they find a dead body in a nearby river one morning while fly fishing. The victim was their neighbor, Lord Fairbrother. He wasn’t a nice man and seemed to have multiple enemies. However, suspicion falls on the local snake catcher, someone that Stella has befriended. Can she and Lyndy figure out what really happened?
I enjoyed the first in the series, but I found this one even better. The story is tight with lots to keep us hooked. I was impressed with how it all came together at the end. I do find Stella’s father horrible at times, which is my only negative. Lyndy’s mother, while still annoying, is more on the amusing side. The rest of the cast is charming, and Lyndy and Stella are wonderful leads. You can’t help but root for them. We get the story from multiple viewpoints, but it is always clear when we are switching things up. I’m already looking forward to finding out what happens to these characters next.
I enjoyed the first in the series, but I found this one even better. The story is tight with lots to keep us hooked. I was impressed with how it all came together at the end. I do find Stella’s father horrible at times, which is my only negative. Lyndy’s mother, while still annoying, is more on the amusing side. The rest of the cast is charming, and Lyndy and Stella are wonderful leads. You can’t help but root for them. We get the story from multiple viewpoints, but it is always clear when we are switching things up. I’m already looking forward to finding out what happens to these characters next.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2492 KP) rated At Death’s Dough in Books
Dec 18, 2025 (Updated Dec 18, 2025)
A Frozen Valentine’s Day
It’s the beginning of February, and Delilah O’Leary is finding the quiet season is quieter than she planned on. She’s hoping for a full restaurant on Valentine’s Day to help carry her through to tourist season again. On one of the restaurant’s days closed, Delilah and her great aunt go out ice fishing, and they make an unexpected discovery - a dead body under the ice. The victim was dressed for scuba diving, but who would dive in the lake in the middle of the winter?
The premise definitely caught my attention, although I found the pacing was uneven. Yes, I could tell the story was being set up, but it felt a bit random to me for a while. Once things really got going, I was hooked, with plenty of excitement, especially in the final quarter. And we did reach a logical conclusion. The characters continue to shine, and I especially appreciated seeing Delilah growing while building her relationship with her boyfriend. And we get another four recipes to enjoy at the end. If you enjoy culinary cozies, you’ll find yourself grabbing all the slices in this series.
The premise definitely caught my attention, although I found the pacing was uneven. Yes, I could tell the story was being set up, but it felt a bit random to me for a while. Once things really got going, I was hooked, with plenty of excitement, especially in the final quarter. And we did reach a logical conclusion. The characters continue to shine, and I especially appreciated seeing Delilah growing while building her relationship with her boyfriend. And we get another four recipes to enjoy at the end. If you enjoy culinary cozies, you’ll find yourself grabbing all the slices in this series.
BookwormLea (3034 KP) Aug 29, 2020