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Eleanor (1463 KP) rated The Witch Elm: A Novel in Books
Jan 12, 2020
I listened to the audiobook of this narrated by Gerry O’Brian and would recommend increasing the speed it plays at. I didn’t until quite far in and regretted not speeding it up sooner.
Following on from a brutal attack Toby goes to stay in his old family home. When a skull is discovered in Wych Elm in the garden Toby has to question everything he thought he knew about his family.
Despite the skull discovery being on the blurb it actually is a long way into the book before we get that revelation. There is a lot of build-up to it and while I like a good bit of character building I did wish it had just got on with the main story sooner. Told from Toby’s POV who I didn’t find to be a particularly interesting or likable character there seemed to be way too much navel-gazing. I was also a bit disappointed by the main mystery; with so much build-up it just felt anticlimactic and again the whole investigation was overly drawn out. Just when I thought it had finally ended it managed to keep going for even longer.
Overall too much of a slow burner for me.
Following on from a brutal attack Toby goes to stay in his old family home. When a skull is discovered in Wych Elm in the garden Toby has to question everything he thought he knew about his family.
Despite the skull discovery being on the blurb it actually is a long way into the book before we get that revelation. There is a lot of build-up to it and while I like a good bit of character building I did wish it had just got on with the main story sooner. Told from Toby’s POV who I didn’t find to be a particularly interesting or likable character there seemed to be way too much navel-gazing. I was also a bit disappointed by the main mystery; with so much build-up it just felt anticlimactic and again the whole investigation was overly drawn out. Just when I thought it had finally ended it managed to keep going for even longer.
Overall too much of a slow burner for me.
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Better than Fiction in Books
Feb 23, 2021
Two books in one, where do I sign up?
I love stories that go back and forth between past (in this case 1916) and present day. There are few authors who can pull off writing a duel story line well, however, I have found two author who did one together! They did a fantastic job. I think that the author’s expressed both sets of characters accurately and I really felt involved in their lives by the end of the book. I was sad to see it end. My favorite part though was probably the premise. Too often I think we chose to live in a made-up world rather than being thankful for the one we have. I am guilty of that myself. I believe that the authors did justice to this problem and summed it up in an understandable way. I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for the duel story line that was unique and interesting, the great premise, and the amazing characters.
I love stories that go back and forth between past (in this case 1916) and present day. There are few authors who can pull off writing a duel story line well, however, I have found two author who did one together! They did a fantastic job. I think that the author’s expressed both sets of characters accurately and I really felt involved in their lives by the end of the book. I was sad to see it end. My favorite part though was probably the premise. Too often I think we chose to live in a made-up world rather than being thankful for the one we have. I am guilty of that myself. I believe that the authors did justice to this problem and summed it up in an understandable way. I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for the duel story line that was unique and interesting, the great premise, and the amazing characters.
Joe Goodhart (27 KP) rated Who Fears Death in Books
Nov 30, 2020
I liked Nnedi Okorafor's work on Marvel's SHURI, plus her themes fit in with some of the recent "LeVar Burton Reads" podcasts that I have enjoyed. Needless to say, I thought I would give this a shot, as it comes with numerous positive reviews.
While I enjoyed the world-building and the characters presented, I began to lose some interest about 45% into the book. I felt Onyesonwu's set-up, and subsequent chapters leading to where I stopped, felt like a car ride: I enjoyed the view, I enjoyed the companions on the ride, but I wanted to be at the destination already.
I think Ms. Okorafor is very talented. Her depiction of Africa felt like I was truly there, as if I could feel it. The backstory of the rape and genocide, clearly taken from what was barely a blip on the radar of American news broadcasts, was eye-opening, it helped to illustrate what it must have been like. For these two aspects of the book, I was quite impressed.
Unfortunately, the journey began to feel too long, and I had to "pull the car over". I may revisit it at a later date, but for now, I must take my leave it.
That said, I will give other works by Ms. Okorafor a try for sure.
While I enjoyed the world-building and the characters presented, I began to lose some interest about 45% into the book. I felt Onyesonwu's set-up, and subsequent chapters leading to where I stopped, felt like a car ride: I enjoyed the view, I enjoyed the companions on the ride, but I wanted to be at the destination already.
I think Ms. Okorafor is very talented. Her depiction of Africa felt like I was truly there, as if I could feel it. The backstory of the rape and genocide, clearly taken from what was barely a blip on the radar of American news broadcasts, was eye-opening, it helped to illustrate what it must have been like. For these two aspects of the book, I was quite impressed.
Unfortunately, the journey began to feel too long, and I had to "pull the car over". I may revisit it at a later date, but for now, I must take my leave it.
That said, I will give other works by Ms. Okorafor a try for sure.
Dana (24 KP) rated The Girl on the Train in Books
Mar 23, 2018
This rating is actually a 2.5 but we still can't do half stars on here, so I rounded up.
So I read this book before I read Gone Girl, but even with that, I was expecting an amazing book full of suspense and plot twists and just general intrigue. Unfortunately, it didn't live up to the potential for me.
I did not like the characters at all. They fell flat for me and were too whiny and clingy for my taste. I especially did not like the main character.I have a feeling there was a point to her being unreliable, probably to show that she most likely knew what happened but couldn't remember, but I just found it annoying. I am not one to judge a character by their actions, like drinking excessively, but this felt a little overdone in this book.
Even the plot twists I kinda saw coming. Like, from the beginning. There wasn't enough suspense for me to really get into the book and enjoy it. By the end, I just wanted to confirm my suspicions.
Overall, it just wasn't my kind of book, I guess.
So I read this book before I read Gone Girl, but even with that, I was expecting an amazing book full of suspense and plot twists and just general intrigue. Unfortunately, it didn't live up to the potential for me.
I did not like the characters at all. They fell flat for me and were too whiny and clingy for my taste. I especially did not like the main character.I have a feeling there was a point to her being unreliable, probably to show that she most likely knew what happened but couldn't remember, but I just found it annoying. I am not one to judge a character by their actions, like drinking excessively, but this felt a little overdone in this book.
Even the plot twists I kinda saw coming. Like, from the beginning. There wasn't enough suspense for me to really get into the book and enjoy it. By the end, I just wanted to confirm my suspicions.
Overall, it just wasn't my kind of book, I guess.
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) rated Ready Player One in Books
Jun 6, 2018
(This review can also be found on my blog: <a href="http://alltheupsandowns.blogspot.com/">All the Ups and Downs</a>).
Wow! I loved this book and was sad when it ended. I really didn’t know what to make of it when I read the book blurb. It just didn’t sound like something I’d like. How wrong I was!
I saw this book sitting in my local library and decided to give it a chance. I’m glad I did!
I loved the characters! I don’t wish I knew a bit more backstory about each of them, but it didn’t deter me from the book. I loved Art3mis the most.
I loved the setting of the book and everything that goes on in the OASIS. I felt like I was there a lot of them through Cline’s descriptive writing.
There are so many 80’s references in this book. It helps if you are big on 80’s pop culture. I feel like it would give you more of an advantage in picturing what Cline describes.
Sometimes the 80’s pop culture references were a bit much as was all the technology speak, but I wasn’t put off by the book.
The writing is fantastic as is the plot! I hated the Sixers and Sorrento so much and wanted them to fail.
I would say this book is better suited for those 16 or older due to the language. Adults will enjoy it too not only because of all the nostalgic 80’s feels, but also because it’s just a great book.
I would definitely recommend this book. I was totally immersed in Ready Player One. I think most people would enjoy it especially those who grew up in/around the 80’s and those that are gamers.
Wow! I loved this book and was sad when it ended. I really didn’t know what to make of it when I read the book blurb. It just didn’t sound like something I’d like. How wrong I was!
I saw this book sitting in my local library and decided to give it a chance. I’m glad I did!
I loved the characters! I don’t wish I knew a bit more backstory about each of them, but it didn’t deter me from the book. I loved Art3mis the most.
I loved the setting of the book and everything that goes on in the OASIS. I felt like I was there a lot of them through Cline’s descriptive writing.
There are so many 80’s references in this book. It helps if you are big on 80’s pop culture. I feel like it would give you more of an advantage in picturing what Cline describes.
Sometimes the 80’s pop culture references were a bit much as was all the technology speak, but I wasn’t put off by the book.
The writing is fantastic as is the plot! I hated the Sixers and Sorrento so much and wanted them to fail.
I would say this book is better suited for those 16 or older due to the language. Adults will enjoy it too not only because of all the nostalgic 80’s feels, but also because it’s just a great book.
I would definitely recommend this book. I was totally immersed in Ready Player One. I think most people would enjoy it especially those who grew up in/around the 80’s and those that are gamers.
Alex Kapranos recommended 1962–1966 by The Beatles in Music (curated)
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated The Hour of Dust and Ashes (Charlie Madigan, #3) in Books
Apr 27, 2018
I've been anxiously awaiting the release of this book since the second one came out last August. I love this series! The tension starts at the very beginning and follows through the entire book, to the last page. I love the characters (Charlie is my hero) and I was furious about what happened at the end (in a good way. I have to read the next book now!).
I will say I wished I'd read the other two again before reading this one. I didn't forget too much, but there were a few little things were I was thinking "Okay I remember something about that, but no details." I would certainly recommend reading them closer together than one year.
If you liked the first two Charlie Madigan books, you'll love this one. Lots of loose ends were tied up, doors were opened, and secrets were revealed. I loved it!
Content/Recommendation: Some language, no sex. Ages 17+
I will say I wished I'd read the other two again before reading this one. I didn't forget too much, but there were a few little things were I was thinking "Okay I remember something about that, but no details." I would certainly recommend reading them closer together than one year.
If you liked the first two Charlie Madigan books, you'll love this one. Lots of loose ends were tied up, doors were opened, and secrets were revealed. I loved it!
Content/Recommendation: Some language, no sex. Ages 17+
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Thirteen Weddings in Books
Sep 6, 2019
I suppose I should say that I'm not normally a lover of chick-lit but Paige Toon is an author I will buy happily.
CONTAINS SPOILERS, SO READ AT YOUR OWN RISK.
I feel a bit like I'm in limbo. Is there going to be a second book? I WANT there to be a second book! I NEED there to be a second book.
I'm sorry but I was pretty much Team Alex all the way through this. Okay at the end he didn't help himself when he went through with his stupid wedding, but for me the attraction and connection between him and Bronte was amazing. He told her he loved her, messaged her everyday, she phones him up to tell him to stop and he does? Really? It seems too easy. I never really saw Alex as a quitter.
And Lackie...I liked you. Just not as a couple with Bronte. You were fun, charming, sexy...but I can't say I felt the chemistry between you as much as I could with Alex.
AND considering I tend to want my girl to go with the first guy...then that would be Alex.
I loved the first 75%. It was the author's usual witty book with great, likeable characters and an interesting plotline which I loved. I would have gladly given it 5 stars if not for the ending.
I know the author can't please everyone with her story, and that it's terrible of me to rate it down an entire star just because she didn't write the ending I wanted, but that's the kind of mood I'm in right now.
CONTAINS SPOILERS, SO READ AT YOUR OWN RISK.
I feel a bit like I'm in limbo. Is there going to be a second book? I WANT there to be a second book! I NEED there to be a second book.
I'm sorry but I was pretty much Team Alex all the way through this. Okay at the end he didn't help himself when he went through with his stupid wedding, but for me the attraction and connection between him and Bronte was amazing. He told her he loved her, messaged her everyday, she phones him up to tell him to stop and he does? Really? It seems too easy. I never really saw Alex as a quitter.
And Lackie...I liked you. Just not as a couple with Bronte. You were fun, charming, sexy...but I can't say I felt the chemistry between you as much as I could with Alex.
AND considering I tend to want my girl to go with the first guy...then that would be Alex.
I loved the first 75%. It was the author's usual witty book with great, likeable characters and an interesting plotline which I loved. I would have gladly given it 5 stars if not for the ending.
I know the author can't please everyone with her story, and that it's terrible of me to rate it down an entire star just because she didn't write the ending I wanted, but that's the kind of mood I'm in right now.
Joe Goodhart (27 KP) rated Ultimate Comics Spider-Man by Brian Michael Bendis, Volume 1 in Books
Nov 30, 2020
So, before I begin my review of ULTIMATE COMICS: SPIDER-MAN Vol. 1, I feel the need to confess something: there was a point in life where I was a lot less liberal, a lot less "forward thinking". I felt heroes like Miles Morales were unnecessary, examples of "lazy writing". I felt that instead of creating a non-white Spider-Man, he should have been a newly created hero, not a copy of one already in existence.
Since that time, I have experienced what I can think of no word to better describe it other than an <I>awakening</I>. Much of it was the ignorance I was raised in - a racist father, a mother who followed his ideals because she was co-dependent, lacking any autonomy. It's like a veil was lifted from my eyes and I can see/think a lot more clearly. Far more acceptance and understanding now in my life, and I quite like me much more.
Now, that said, since my <I>awakening</I>, I went and checked out the first volume, as it was on sale on Comixology. Can't think of a better reason to check out what was previously, for me, a much overlooked tpb!
Man, I just want to say that I share many of the others' feelings: this was a fun series! The 616 Spider-Man hasn't been that much fun in far too long a time! He captured the youthful innocence of the character, but also exhibiting maturity and sense of honor that was not common for his age.
Those who have known me are aware that I am not a fan of Brian Michael Bendis. I felt he excelled more with his own characters (like SCARLETT, which I loved immensely) than taking on the task of writing for existing characters. However, here, I felt that he was top of his game, offering us a Spider-Man that this world truly needs!
I don't really want to do this, as 95% of the book was beyond awesome, but the inclusion of ULTIMATE FALLOUT #4 (of 6) was the only negative thing I can offer about this book. The story is awkward as it shows us Miles already in costume, already testing out his newfound powers and abilities. I felt that it made reading Miles' story after it confusing at first. It really brought nothing to the story.
Other than that, the book was solid! Bendis' writing was hot as heck, fun yet not as overly wordy as he can be known for. And assigning Sara Pichelli the task of illustrating Miles' adventures was gold! Her pencils are always tight, giving each character their own distinct visual persona! All across the board, this book was so much win!
Don't be like I used to be: read this book, because you, too, will believe in Heroes again!
Since that time, I have experienced what I can think of no word to better describe it other than an <I>awakening</I>. Much of it was the ignorance I was raised in - a racist father, a mother who followed his ideals because she was co-dependent, lacking any autonomy. It's like a veil was lifted from my eyes and I can see/think a lot more clearly. Far more acceptance and understanding now in my life, and I quite like me much more.
Now, that said, since my <I>awakening</I>, I went and checked out the first volume, as it was on sale on Comixology. Can't think of a better reason to check out what was previously, for me, a much overlooked tpb!
Man, I just want to say that I share many of the others' feelings: this was a fun series! The 616 Spider-Man hasn't been that much fun in far too long a time! He captured the youthful innocence of the character, but also exhibiting maturity and sense of honor that was not common for his age.
Those who have known me are aware that I am not a fan of Brian Michael Bendis. I felt he excelled more with his own characters (like SCARLETT, which I loved immensely) than taking on the task of writing for existing characters. However, here, I felt that he was top of his game, offering us a Spider-Man that this world truly needs!
I don't really want to do this, as 95% of the book was beyond awesome, but the inclusion of ULTIMATE FALLOUT #4 (of 6) was the only negative thing I can offer about this book. The story is awkward as it shows us Miles already in costume, already testing out his newfound powers and abilities. I felt that it made reading Miles' story after it confusing at first. It really brought nothing to the story.
Other than that, the book was solid! Bendis' writing was hot as heck, fun yet not as overly wordy as he can be known for. And assigning Sara Pichelli the task of illustrating Miles' adventures was gold! Her pencils are always tight, giving each character their own distinct visual persona! All across the board, this book was so much win!
Don't be like I used to be: read this book, because you, too, will believe in Heroes again!
Joe Goodhart (27 KP) rated Lady Mechanika Vol. 1: The Mystery of the Mechanical Corpse in Books
Nov 30, 2020
The steampunk genre has been, more or less, beaten into the ground. The market was flooded. From anthologies to original prose novels, there was a little sumpin' for everyone. Why, there was even a sub-genre to it that was steampunk romance! Wowz!
That said, I really didn't jump on that ride. I liked steampunk well enough, but like anything (yes, even McDonald's!), too much of a good thing is the opposite of good. Hell, even cosplay had embraced, making everything and then some incorporated with steampunk aspects!
However, when LADY MECHANIKA Vol 1 came up as $1.99 on the recent "Indie Sci-Fi" sale on Comixology, I thought I'd give a go. Yeah, there was steampunk, but there was some other things going on, and the art sure was purdy!
At first, I was worried that it would be a book not unlike many of the titles from Aspen Comics: lead females with waists that'd make supermodels jealous, meh stories, and even more meh characters. Fortunately, that was not the case with Joe Benitez's LADY MECHANIKA!
This first volume is comprised of the first 6-issue mini-series. It allows for some backstory, but just enough to keep you interested and coming back for more. It also introduces the two main protagonists: "Lady Mechanika" (not her real name, but a name bestowed upon her by the press) and Mr. Lewis, Lady M's "unofficial" ally and sidekick-of-sorts.
The story is fun, embracing all the aspects of steampunk. There is action and suspense, as well as an air of mystery. It is a series that is easy to get caught up in! So much so, that I went on and bought the other two volumes that were on sale, plus subscribed to the series!
Give it a go! If you have never read anything steampunk, this would be a great entry. And, if you already love the genre, well, then this will be a special treat! Enjoy!
That said, I really didn't jump on that ride. I liked steampunk well enough, but like anything (yes, even McDonald's!), too much of a good thing is the opposite of good. Hell, even cosplay had embraced, making everything and then some incorporated with steampunk aspects!
However, when LADY MECHANIKA Vol 1 came up as $1.99 on the recent "Indie Sci-Fi" sale on Comixology, I thought I'd give a go. Yeah, there was steampunk, but there was some other things going on, and the art sure was purdy!
At first, I was worried that it would be a book not unlike many of the titles from Aspen Comics: lead females with waists that'd make supermodels jealous, meh stories, and even more meh characters. Fortunately, that was not the case with Joe Benitez's LADY MECHANIKA!
This first volume is comprised of the first 6-issue mini-series. It allows for some backstory, but just enough to keep you interested and coming back for more. It also introduces the two main protagonists: "Lady Mechanika" (not her real name, but a name bestowed upon her by the press) and Mr. Lewis, Lady M's "unofficial" ally and sidekick-of-sorts.
The story is fun, embracing all the aspects of steampunk. There is action and suspense, as well as an air of mystery. It is a series that is easy to get caught up in! So much so, that I went on and bought the other two volumes that were on sale, plus subscribed to the series!
Give it a go! If you have never read anything steampunk, this would be a great entry. And, if you already love the genre, well, then this will be a special treat! Enjoy!