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Sam (228 KP) rated Bumblebee (2018) in Movies
Mar 3, 2019
Wonderful Acting (1 more)
Heartwarming
Not Much Action for an Action Film (1 more)
Expected More
More Adorable Than Action
I will be the first to admit that I'm not a huge transformers fan. However, my friend really wanted to see it and so I ended up seeing it through. I'll admit that I liked it more than I thought I would but I find this is due to the fact that this movie did not follow the typical layout for a transformers movie. Rather I found it to be more in the spirit of teenhood flick than an action packed movie about robots from outer space. I found bumblebee
to be humorous, fun loving character as he learned the basics of earth and his female friend to be... well more whimsical than the usual strong, overly sexualized female lead the transformers movies often portray. It was a nice change, the whole film was very different, not what I was expecting at all. Whether this is a good thing or not has yet to be decided though as I wait to watch whether the transformers movies are going to continue and what will be released next. However, if you've come looking for an Action flick to watch then I would suggest something else because you will find nothing more than a whimsical teen flick here, all about building friendships between alien races, much like E.T.
to be humorous, fun loving character as he learned the basics of earth and his female friend to be... well more whimsical than the usual strong, overly sexualized female lead the transformers movies often portray. It was a nice change, the whole film was very different, not what I was expecting at all. Whether this is a good thing or not has yet to be decided though as I wait to watch whether the transformers movies are going to continue and what will be released next. However, if you've come looking for an Action flick to watch then I would suggest something else because you will find nothing more than a whimsical teen flick here, all about building friendships between alien races, much like E.T.
Autumn (430 KP) rated A Plague of Giants in Books
Nov 18, 2017 (Updated Nov 18, 2017)
The world building (2 more)
The kennings
Abhinava Khose, Murr, and Eep
I received an ARC at no cost through a giveaway hosted by the author and/or publisher.
What I liked: Wow, Hearne has really created a whole new world in this series. I can't imagine the time it took to come up with several nations, kennings, and all the culture behind each. I was impressed. The kennings are interesting and somewhat horrifying. It would be amazing to do any of the things the blessed are able to do, but the fact that you age and use up your life span if you push your kenning too hard is horrifying and almost not worth it, in my opinion. The creatures in this book are scary and I would not want to live in a world where they exist. However, they really added to the world building, especially once the 6th kenning is found. Abhinava Khose was probably my favorite character, largely due to the fact that he can control and communicate with animals. I found myself sucked in any time the bard delivered a piece of his story. I love books that switch perspectives, and this was definitely a new way of doing it. I liked the way it was written for the most part.
What I didn't like: I will say that it took some time to grab my attention, but that may be because I don't usually read high fantasy. It took me a while to read this book and at one point I didn't know if I would continue. However, I am glad I stuck it out because it picked up and I became invested in the story.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It took some time for me to get into it, but I am glad I finished it. I think the author has built an interesting world full of magic and war and I will definitely pick up the next book in this series.
What I liked: Wow, Hearne has really created a whole new world in this series. I can't imagine the time it took to come up with several nations, kennings, and all the culture behind each. I was impressed. The kennings are interesting and somewhat horrifying. It would be amazing to do any of the things the blessed are able to do, but the fact that you age and use up your life span if you push your kenning too hard is horrifying and almost not worth it, in my opinion. The creatures in this book are scary and I would not want to live in a world where they exist. However, they really added to the world building, especially once the 6th kenning is found. Abhinava Khose was probably my favorite character, largely due to the fact that he can control and communicate with animals. I found myself sucked in any time the bard delivered a piece of his story. I love books that switch perspectives, and this was definitely a new way of doing it. I liked the way it was written for the most part.
What I didn't like: I will say that it took some time to grab my attention, but that may be because I don't usually read high fantasy. It took me a while to read this book and at one point I didn't know if I would continue. However, I am glad I stuck it out because it picked up and I became invested in the story.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It took some time for me to get into it, but I am glad I finished it. I think the author has built an interesting world full of magic and war and I will definitely pick up the next book in this series.
Dana (24 KP) rated And I Darken (The Conqueror's Saga #1) in Books
Mar 23, 2018
So I was listening to this audio book when I was driving to and from Los Angeles area and I've got to say, I found myself drifting my thoughts a lot when listening. I didn't want to stay focused on the plot because it was kind of boring.
I think the biggest problem I had with this book is the lack of female characters. Like, there was one. That's it. Really? I understand this being based on "historical facts" but surely there were females in history. And the fact that this is a fictionalized version of this history makes it more irritating that she didn't add in more females. I don't know, I guess I am just wanting more female representation.
Yes, the main female character was strong, but she was presented in a way that makes femininity seem like it's a weakness, not another kind of strength. She shows love as a hindrance, not as something that can help you want to protect the people you love. I think the message of the book was a little skewed in that respect.
I don't know if I am going to pick up the next book or not. I don't know if I want to keep trying. Yes, the writing style was pretty good, but I don't know if I like the story direction enough to keep going. We shall see.
I think the biggest problem I had with this book is the lack of female characters. Like, there was one. That's it. Really? I understand this being based on "historical facts" but surely there were females in history. And the fact that this is a fictionalized version of this history makes it more irritating that she didn't add in more females. I don't know, I guess I am just wanting more female representation.
Yes, the main female character was strong, but she was presented in a way that makes femininity seem like it's a weakness, not another kind of strength. She shows love as a hindrance, not as something that can help you want to protect the people you love. I think the message of the book was a little skewed in that respect.
I don't know if I am going to pick up the next book or not. I don't know if I want to keep trying. Yes, the writing style was pretty good, but I don't know if I like the story direction enough to keep going. We shall see.
Debbiereadsbook (1449 KP) rated A Sucker For Christmas in Books
Jan 19, 2024
its about the emotions between these two.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I love JP Sayle, you know I do, and I LOVED the Tangled Tentacles series, with the kraken and their arms, so I was expecting to love this book too, even if Fitch is an octopus, rather than a kraken.
But for me, I found it a little . . .flat . . maybe?? I dunno WHY I didn't love it, and I can't get my bloody book brain to spill its secrets, so I can't explain what was up with it! I'll just write what I did like and be done, ok??
I liked that Fitch, at 4 years old, knew that Shaun would be his. I liked that Fitch waited for Shaun to get with the feelings programme. I liked that they both have a say.
I did love Shaun's sister, Mandy, and what she did. She loves her brothers, plural, for she included Fitch in the number, and she wanted them both to be happy. Sneaky!
It has some steam, but I didn't think it was as smexy as some other Sayle books. It was more about the emotions between these two, and finally admitting who you wanted to be with!
3 good stars, and I'm so sorry I didn't love it!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I love JP Sayle, you know I do, and I LOVED the Tangled Tentacles series, with the kraken and their arms, so I was expecting to love this book too, even if Fitch is an octopus, rather than a kraken.
But for me, I found it a little . . .flat . . maybe?? I dunno WHY I didn't love it, and I can't get my bloody book brain to spill its secrets, so I can't explain what was up with it! I'll just write what I did like and be done, ok??
I liked that Fitch, at 4 years old, knew that Shaun would be his. I liked that Fitch waited for Shaun to get with the feelings programme. I liked that they both have a say.
I did love Shaun's sister, Mandy, and what she did. She loves her brothers, plural, for she included Fitch in the number, and she wanted them both to be happy. Sneaky!
It has some steam, but I didn't think it was as smexy as some other Sayle books. It was more about the emotions between these two, and finally admitting who you wanted to be with!
3 good stars, and I'm so sorry I didn't love it!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Abbie Devine (3 KP) rated Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018) in Movies
Jan 2, 2019
Interactive Film (2 more)
Alternative Endings
Intriguing themes such as mental health and government conspiracy theories
Stefan is simply trying to complete the coding for his new game derived from a choose your own adventure book 'Bandersnatch'. Will you help him stay focused and complete the game or will you force him to descend into madness?
I was apprehensive when I found out the new Black Mirror film was going to be interactive as I didn't want the plot to be overshadowed by the interactive feature. But I was wrong
The film is great. An original story archetype of time looping but with that classic Black Mirror edge.
If you are a tiny bit obsessive like me, you might want to set aside two hours or so to explore every choice and ending.
Without any spoilers, some endings can be rather satisfying, whilst others can be a bit hit or miss but quite often with the chance to retry from a certain point without necessarily changing the timeline.
So if you are looking for a new existential crisis, Bandersnatch is the one for you.
I was apprehensive when I found out the new Black Mirror film was going to be interactive as I didn't want the plot to be overshadowed by the interactive feature. But I was wrong
The film is great. An original story archetype of time looping but with that classic Black Mirror edge.
If you are a tiny bit obsessive like me, you might want to set aside two hours or so to explore every choice and ending.
Without any spoilers, some endings can be rather satisfying, whilst others can be a bit hit or miss but quite often with the chance to retry from a certain point without necessarily changing the timeline.
So if you are looking for a new existential crisis, Bandersnatch is the one for you.
Lilyn G - Sci-Fi & Scary (91 KP) rated The Devil's Well (2017) in Movies
Jan 31, 2018
It made me think, which is more than I expected.
A ‘documentary’ film consisting mostly of found footage, capped with interviews on either end, The Devil’s Well attempts to convince viewers that there is still something interesting in the subgenre to be had. Sometimes, it nearly succeeds, but most of the time it just falls a bit flat.
I will say this for The Devil’s Well, it made me think about it. Some of the things that I initially found as flaws in the movie I wondered about later. Like was the lack of ‘forboding’ sound effects that you generally hear right before something happens. I also did like the interaction between the team members in regards to the reality of their situation. It is very clear that while some people have a definite motivation for coming to The Devil’s Well, the others are not exactly on board.
I liked the bluntness with which the cameras overseer of the Signs group (Kurtis Spieler) speaks to Bryan Marks (played by Bryan Manley Davis). The conversation felt exactly like one that would really have happened. I found myself rooting for him to survive. I also found myself hoping for the reveal that everything had been a huge hoax. (Though, speaking of the cameras, why were some in black and white and some weren’t?)
I think the weakest point is with the actress that played Karla Marks, but I’m unsure if I think it was the dialogue or the acting that failed. All I know is that while I was semi-engaged with most of the film, her scenes had me rolling my eyes a bit.
The Devil’s Well was well-shot and the acting was decent, but other than a few thought provoking moments, it really brings nothing new to the table. I wish there had been a bit more explanation about what had happened to Karla during the year that she was missing. The fact that it’s almost completely open ended drives me a bit bonkers.
Disclaimer: I received a screener link of this movie for review consideration from October Coast Media.
I will say this for The Devil’s Well, it made me think about it. Some of the things that I initially found as flaws in the movie I wondered about later. Like was the lack of ‘forboding’ sound effects that you generally hear right before something happens. I also did like the interaction between the team members in regards to the reality of their situation. It is very clear that while some people have a definite motivation for coming to The Devil’s Well, the others are not exactly on board.
I liked the bluntness with which the cameras overseer of the Signs group (Kurtis Spieler) speaks to Bryan Marks (played by Bryan Manley Davis). The conversation felt exactly like one that would really have happened. I found myself rooting for him to survive. I also found myself hoping for the reveal that everything had been a huge hoax. (Though, speaking of the cameras, why were some in black and white and some weren’t?)
I think the weakest point is with the actress that played Karla Marks, but I’m unsure if I think it was the dialogue or the acting that failed. All I know is that while I was semi-engaged with most of the film, her scenes had me rolling my eyes a bit.
The Devil’s Well was well-shot and the acting was decent, but other than a few thought provoking moments, it really brings nothing new to the table. I wish there had been a bit more explanation about what had happened to Karla during the year that she was missing. The fact that it’s almost completely open ended drives me a bit bonkers.
Disclaimer: I received a screener link of this movie for review consideration from October Coast Media.
Merissa (12934 KP) rated Redemption (The Revelation, #3) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review.
"Oh. My. God. Randi, you are awesome!" Okay, so I may have just stolen that from her books but the truth still stands. This series is one I found by accident but I have never been happier! The books are simply outstanding and everything about them is just perfect for me - from the covers down to the nitty-gritty of editing and grammar. I am a long-term fan of both Randi and The Revelation Series so I warn you now that I will be squealing like a fangirl. But anyway, onto Redemption itself.
If you want a book that you can pick up and put down again without any problems then you need to WALK AWAY!! These books will get under your skin, the characters within the pages you will love, then hate, then love again as Randi plays with your emotions. She is a wicked author ;)
Redemption will take you on a rollercoaster of a ride. You start with major, almost catatonic depression, then anger, then hope, then love, happiness, friendship - need I go on? There is a gamut of emotional highs and lows in this book and it's not just from the main characters. Smaller characters that have just had a supporting role up to now get their chance to shine. We learn more about everyone and meet new allies too. We meet old allies and feel our heart break all over again. Did I mention this book is emotional?
I love the way that Randi writes - she draws you into the story and it enfolds you. The characters get under your skin until they feel like friends/enemies or even frenemies. Whichever, you know them! They are not just words on a page.
This is a series of five books and as such they are not standalones. Randi has got the art of the ending down to a 'T' and she kills me every time! So far, I have issued a kleenex warning with both her previous books and this one is no different. The ending took me by surprise and left me reeling. I can honestly say that I finished the book, shook my head and went back to re-read the last chapter because I just couldn't bear for the book to be finished.
I am now impatiently waiting for books 4 and 5 and once I have my grubby paws on them, I will be re-reading this whole series back to back. A fantastic, hot, witty, smexy Paranormal Romance that will draw you in and not let you go. I can't recommend this highly enough!
"Oh. My. God. Randi, you are awesome!" Okay, so I may have just stolen that from her books but the truth still stands. This series is one I found by accident but I have never been happier! The books are simply outstanding and everything about them is just perfect for me - from the covers down to the nitty-gritty of editing and grammar. I am a long-term fan of both Randi and The Revelation Series so I warn you now that I will be squealing like a fangirl. But anyway, onto Redemption itself.
If you want a book that you can pick up and put down again without any problems then you need to WALK AWAY!! These books will get under your skin, the characters within the pages you will love, then hate, then love again as Randi plays with your emotions. She is a wicked author ;)
Redemption will take you on a rollercoaster of a ride. You start with major, almost catatonic depression, then anger, then hope, then love, happiness, friendship - need I go on? There is a gamut of emotional highs and lows in this book and it's not just from the main characters. Smaller characters that have just had a supporting role up to now get their chance to shine. We learn more about everyone and meet new allies too. We meet old allies and feel our heart break all over again. Did I mention this book is emotional?
I love the way that Randi writes - she draws you into the story and it enfolds you. The characters get under your skin until they feel like friends/enemies or even frenemies. Whichever, you know them! They are not just words on a page.
This is a series of five books and as such they are not standalones. Randi has got the art of the ending down to a 'T' and she kills me every time! So far, I have issued a kleenex warning with both her previous books and this one is no different. The ending took me by surprise and left me reeling. I can honestly say that I finished the book, shook my head and went back to re-read the last chapter because I just couldn't bear for the book to be finished.
I am now impatiently waiting for books 4 and 5 and once I have my grubby paws on them, I will be re-reading this whole series back to back. A fantastic, hot, witty, smexy Paranormal Romance that will draw you in and not let you go. I can't recommend this highly enough!
Heathski (173 KP) rated Scar Night in Books
Feb 10, 2019 (Updated Feb 10, 2019)
Brilliantly written (1 more)
Twisted and dark
Deliciously dark and macabre
While this is not my usually fantasy book to pick up, I found myself being drawn into the nightmare unable to look away. The characters, while not very likeable, are interesting, and you do care where their story will end. It's been compared to Goremenghast, which I haven't read so can't compare, but it is well written. It's gothic steampunk, grim, dark fantasy, melancholic tragedy with horror sprinkled on top. I loved it and felt sad I'd finished it, but couldn't wait to get the next in the series.
Auburn (57 KP) rated Alex, Approximately in Books
Jun 21, 2019
Nothing makes one swoon as much as a story of two people finding eachother. Meeting online, then in real life. Neither knows the other is actually their online bff. It makes the story and romance that much better. I adore the characters and the back stories so well woven in. I read this after reading her other book and I found that this one was much better. The way the characters interact and grow to be fond instead of an insta-love.
Should you try it: Perfect for fans of romance that will curl your toes with giddiness.
Should you try it: Perfect for fans of romance that will curl your toes with giddiness.
Laura Doe (1350 KP) rated Thanatos (The Underworld Saga #1) in Books
Mar 12, 2021
Great mythological story
For anyone who enjoys mythology, thus is a great book. You get to know some of the gods and goddesses from Greek mythology. The only thing I found a little unbelievable was parts if the love story between Than and Therese, although it was lovely to read as a young girl fell in love with the Hod of death, I sometimes forgot that she was supposed to only be 15 as some of it was written as though she was an adult. I would give it 3.5 stars overall as it was a fun little read!
For anyone who enjoys mythology, thus is a great book. You get to know some of the gods and goddesses from Greek mythology. The only thing I found a little unbelievable was parts if the love story between Than and Therese, although it was lovely to read as a young girl fell in love with the Hod of death, I sometimes forgot that she was supposed to only be 15 as some of it was written as though she was an adult. I would give it 3.5 stars overall as it was a fun little read!