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ClareR (5711 KP) rated The Dangerous Kind in Books
Mar 27, 2019 (Updated Mar 27, 2019)
1 in 100 People
This was such an enjoyable book - the subject matter however, was very uncomfortable. The story is set in the present day and 2002. In the present day, a radio presenter for Radio 4 and former newspaper reporter, Jessamine, presents a programme about potentially dangerous people, and whether there had been signs of their violence in the past. In 2002, we follow a 13 year old girl called Rowan, who is in care. She becomes involved with some very disturbing men. Paedophiles. Nothing is described explicitly, but anyone with any kind of imagination will be able to fill in the gaps from the descriptions we’re given.
This was such a well written book - there was an underlying feeling of menace through both timelines that made me feel very uncomfortable (which was no bad thing as it really added to the experience!) and the main characters had me fighting in their corners throughout.
I’m a big fan of the ‘literary twist’, and this certainly delivered. This book is well worth your time and money, I highly recommend it!
Many thanks to The Pigeonhole and the author for reading along with her readers.
And the 1 in 100 refers to those who are likely to go on to commit some sort of violent criminal act. Not such a nice thought....
This was such a well written book - there was an underlying feeling of menace through both timelines that made me feel very uncomfortable (which was no bad thing as it really added to the experience!) and the main characters had me fighting in their corners throughout.
I’m a big fan of the ‘literary twist’, and this certainly delivered. This book is well worth your time and money, I highly recommend it!
Many thanks to The Pigeonhole and the author for reading along with her readers.
And the 1 in 100 refers to those who are likely to go on to commit some sort of violent criminal act. Not such a nice thought....
Peter Shephard (2822 KP) rated Call to Adventure in Tabletop Games
Jun 4, 2019
Different, in a very good way
This is unlike any game I have played before. It is totally possible to create a whole life story in one game, and with a little leap of imagination, the created character could be the Big Bad (or Main Support) for just about any fantasy role playing game.
The game uses a standard format for abilities (strength etc) but "casting runes" instead of rolling dice is quick to work out and able to be done quickly.
Having set "story points" which you need to advance your story, but being able to decide whether you take the positive/noble, or negative/shady path gradually builds to give a really developed character.
From one of the games I played, I was an acolyte; I went to war, but was greatly disillusioned by what I saw, so ended up leaving the faith and joining with the thieves. I encountered a childhood sweetheart, and we stayed together for ages. Finally, during my battle with a demon, to complete my return to favour with the diety I had abandoned, my sweetheart was murdered by the demons followers. Although I succeeded, it was at a huge cost....
This was all determined from the cards played; it's very varied and really well thought out.
Highly, highly recommended
The game uses a standard format for abilities (strength etc) but "casting runes" instead of rolling dice is quick to work out and able to be done quickly.
Having set "story points" which you need to advance your story, but being able to decide whether you take the positive/noble, or negative/shady path gradually builds to give a really developed character.
From one of the games I played, I was an acolyte; I went to war, but was greatly disillusioned by what I saw, so ended up leaving the faith and joining with the thieves. I encountered a childhood sweetheart, and we stayed together for ages. Finally, during my battle with a demon, to complete my return to favour with the diety I had abandoned, my sweetheart was murdered by the demons followers. Although I succeeded, it was at a huge cost....
This was all determined from the cards played; it's very varied and really well thought out.
Highly, highly recommended
Sassy Brit (97 KP) rated Daisy Doodles in Books
Jun 6, 2019
Daisy Doodles by Michelle Robinson, and Irene Dickson is an illustrated book for kids, which combines a clever mixture of fun drawings and actual photographs to provide a real sense of creating a new, magical world in which Daisy slips into to become a drawing version of herself.
Yes, magical things happen when Daisy Doodles!Daisy Doodles
On a rainy day with nothing to do, Daisy doodled a mouse, Pipsqueak, who sneezed itself right off the page and into Daisy’s life. From there Daisy gets busy doodling and cutting out a magical land and suddenly her room disappears and adventures with Pipsqueak begin!
I wanted to review this book because I love rodents, (fancy rats in particular), and if you ask me this so-called mouse, is actually a bare-tailed rat! And as a fancy rat owner, this makes Daisy Doodles an even greater treat for me.
This is a fun, cute story which should appeal to children who love to use their imagination to draw and make things. If they don’t already, this should encourage them to do so!
Daisy is just like any normal little girl bored on a rainy day, and Pipsqueak, well, he’s an endearing character of whom Daisy brings to life through her drawings. A magical blend of colourful photos and beautiful illustrations, make this a super creative, kids picture book for all to enjoy!
Yes, magical things happen when Daisy Doodles!Daisy Doodles
On a rainy day with nothing to do, Daisy doodled a mouse, Pipsqueak, who sneezed itself right off the page and into Daisy’s life. From there Daisy gets busy doodling and cutting out a magical land and suddenly her room disappears and adventures with Pipsqueak begin!
I wanted to review this book because I love rodents, (fancy rats in particular), and if you ask me this so-called mouse, is actually a bare-tailed rat! And as a fancy rat owner, this makes Daisy Doodles an even greater treat for me.
This is a fun, cute story which should appeal to children who love to use their imagination to draw and make things. If they don’t already, this should encourage them to do so!
Daisy is just like any normal little girl bored on a rainy day, and Pipsqueak, well, he’s an endearing character of whom Daisy brings to life through her drawings. A magical blend of colourful photos and beautiful illustrations, make this a super creative, kids picture book for all to enjoy!
RebelFleur (1 KP) rated Sex, Lies and Chocolate Cakes in Books
Jan 29, 2018
Online this book is described as 'a delicious laugh out loud comedy' and to be honest with you I do feel as though I have been slightly misled. Although it did make me laugh a few times I do feel as though the writing style was slightly unsophisticated for my taste.
One critisism I feel I have to mention is that the book was very short and was not advertised as so. I enjoy a long book in order to get to know the characters and really feel I can identify with them. However, this was unable to happen due to the length of the book.
Adding to this, I felt as though the book never really 'got going' and due to this it was hard to connect with the characters which I feel is necessary to really enjoy a book. However, there is a sequel which I do intend to read in order to see if the problem is rectified so keep a look out for that!
Overall, I feel as though this is a good book if you don't take it too seriously and simply want a funny addition to add to your collection. Although the writing style did lack some imagination it was an easy read and welcome after a busy night at work.
One critisism I feel I have to mention is that the book was very short and was not advertised as so. I enjoy a long book in order to get to know the characters and really feel I can identify with them. However, this was unable to happen due to the length of the book.
Adding to this, I felt as though the book never really 'got going' and due to this it was hard to connect with the characters which I feel is necessary to really enjoy a book. However, there is a sequel which I do intend to read in order to see if the problem is rectified so keep a look out for that!
Overall, I feel as though this is a good book if you don't take it too seriously and simply want a funny addition to add to your collection. Although the writing style did lack some imagination it was an easy read and welcome after a busy night at work.
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Cursed (Beholder, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is not my normal read as lately I have been hitting the erotica/contemporary romance hard. However, it had to do with necromancy and that is something I simply cannot pass up. Necromancy is something I am highly interested not only because it is rarely written about (compared to vampires, shifters, etc.), but also because rarely is the hero/heroine ever the necromancer. Usually the necromancer is the villain/antagonist.
This story was refreshing, like a breath of fresh air from what I have been reading. Elea is such a powerful character, both in magic and personality. I could definitely get behind her and her ideals. The authors created world was also fascinating. I felt she not only created a marvelous world but also did a good job at explaining it. Sometimes in fantasy novels, I get lost concerning the authors created mythology, but I wasnt with this novel.
It definitely has a young adult feel to it though. Regardless, I loved it and cant wait to read more. If you are a fan of strong heroines with interesting magic, and a fascinating world beyond imagination, then you may enjoy this novel. Not to mention the young love that spurs main characters. I am all for young, dewy eyed love
This is not my normal read as lately I have been hitting the erotica/contemporary romance hard. However, it had to do with necromancy and that is something I simply cannot pass up. Necromancy is something I am highly interested not only because it is rarely written about (compared to vampires, shifters, etc.), but also because rarely is the hero/heroine ever the necromancer. Usually the necromancer is the villain/antagonist.
This story was refreshing, like a breath of fresh air from what I have been reading. Elea is such a powerful character, both in magic and personality. I could definitely get behind her and her ideals. The authors created world was also fascinating. I felt she not only created a marvelous world but also did a good job at explaining it. Sometimes in fantasy novels, I get lost concerning the authors created mythology, but I wasnt with this novel.
It definitely has a young adult feel to it though. Regardless, I loved it and cant wait to read more. If you are a fan of strong heroines with interesting magic, and a fascinating world beyond imagination, then you may enjoy this novel. Not to mention the young love that spurs main characters. I am all for young, dewy eyed love
ClareR (5711 KP) rated Spinning Silver in Books
Aug 13, 2018
Take my money now!!!
Advertised as a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin, this takes quite some imagination to get the reader to that particular fairy tale. I’m assuming that the Staryk King is along the lines of the Rumpelstiltskin character, except he isn’t some wizened dwarf. In fact, more than one of the characters carries some of Rumpelstiltskin’s traits.
Miryem, the Jewish Moneylenders daughter (who is actually far better at it than her father), has a reputation for turning silver in to gold, and this reaches the ears of the Staryk King, who demands that she change his silver in to gold. Which she does three times; the consequences of which aren’t quite what she expects.
Novik writes good female characters, without any doubt. Miryem, whotakes over her father’s moneylending business and saves her family; Irena, the daughter of a Duke, who marries the demon possessed Tsar; and Wanda, the daughter of a destitute, drunk farmer, who by luck comes to pay off her father’s debts by working for Miryem.
These women’s lives converge to create a bewitching story of real human concerns: poverty, helplessness, strength found when needed, and how important it is to pay your debts!
I do hope Novik writes more books like this. I’ll buy them!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this wonderful book.
Miryem, the Jewish Moneylenders daughter (who is actually far better at it than her father), has a reputation for turning silver in to gold, and this reaches the ears of the Staryk King, who demands that she change his silver in to gold. Which she does three times; the consequences of which aren’t quite what she expects.
Novik writes good female characters, without any doubt. Miryem, whotakes over her father’s moneylending business and saves her family; Irena, the daughter of a Duke, who marries the demon possessed Tsar; and Wanda, the daughter of a destitute, drunk farmer, who by luck comes to pay off her father’s debts by working for Miryem.
These women’s lives converge to create a bewitching story of real human concerns: poverty, helplessness, strength found when needed, and how important it is to pay your debts!
I do hope Novik writes more books like this. I’ll buy them!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this wonderful book.
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Amish Quilts Coloring Book in Books
Jan 2, 2019
I had so much fun creating my own Amish "quilt" through coloring. I think this is as close to making a real quilt as I will ever get. Sewing and I don't get along so well. Which is why this book is perfect for me! The patterns and details satisfy my OCD side, while my imagination with color satisfies the creativity. Some of the spaces are quite tiny, but it worked well for me. I use colored pencils and have a great sharpener on hand at all times. Coloring is such a great outlet for relaxing. I like to put music on (usually Lindsey Stirling) and let my inner artist emerge and let my personality bleed onto the page. At the top of each page is an Amish Proverb. The one on the page I colored has been so good for me this week. We have had a rough week here, but miracles have been in the making nonetheless!
"Difficulty is the first stage of a miracle."
~Amish Proverb
Overall, this book is a great idea! A wonderful way to bring to life a piece of the culture that we love to read about.
I received two pages from this coloring book to color for free through Celebrate Lit for this Blog Tour in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
"Difficulty is the first stage of a miracle."
~Amish Proverb
Overall, this book is a great idea! A wonderful way to bring to life a piece of the culture that we love to read about.
I received two pages from this coloring book to color for free through Celebrate Lit for this Blog Tour in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Becs (244 KP) rated Nothing Wee About Me! in Books
Nov 12, 2019
A magical tale of female championship
You can also find this review on my blog: bookingwayreads.wordpress.com
Nothing Wee About Me is a magical tale of one girl's power of imagination and self-confidence. The story follows the main character, Liesel as she visits her Grandma Rose. She takes her grandmother's ladle and goes on an adventure, this adventure leads her to an island that is inhabited by pirates. On this island, there is an active volcano and Liesel is determined to save the day. So she does just that, but it is only a temporary fix.
However, there are multiple of obstacles that get in her way such as a dragon that is guarding a castle. All throughout this little book, Liesel is called a "wee girl" and questioned by everyone. Liesel is confident in herself and what her capabilities are. Her use of a ladle is a bit of a symbolism towards reclaiming the stereotype against women. But Grandma Rose's dismissive attitude towards Liesel's confidence suggests that Liesel's choice isn't that radical.
The text doesn't really tell the story but it rather shows it with soft, sketchy illustrations that support the text with visual information. There are only three human characters while the rest of the characters are animals. Nothing Wee About Me! is a fun and easy read that makes for a great picture book about championing girl power.
Nothing Wee About Me is a magical tale of one girl's power of imagination and self-confidence. The story follows the main character, Liesel as she visits her Grandma Rose. She takes her grandmother's ladle and goes on an adventure, this adventure leads her to an island that is inhabited by pirates. On this island, there is an active volcano and Liesel is determined to save the day. So she does just that, but it is only a temporary fix.
However, there are multiple of obstacles that get in her way such as a dragon that is guarding a castle. All throughout this little book, Liesel is called a "wee girl" and questioned by everyone. Liesel is confident in herself and what her capabilities are. Her use of a ladle is a bit of a symbolism towards reclaiming the stereotype against women. But Grandma Rose's dismissive attitude towards Liesel's confidence suggests that Liesel's choice isn't that radical.
The text doesn't really tell the story but it rather shows it with soft, sketchy illustrations that support the text with visual information. There are only three human characters while the rest of the characters are animals. Nothing Wee About Me! is a fun and easy read that makes for a great picture book about championing girl power.
ClareR (5711 KP) rated Face of Glass in Books
Apr 10, 2020
Face of Glass is best described as a fantasy novel, but I don’t know as it even falls into this category, to be honest.
A young slave, ParuMe, finds himself in the right place at the right time, and is handed the role of chief of the tribe. As SatuKe, a God-like chief who never dies, he is forced to protect his tribe and the whole island from an invading force who know the secrets of steel. Help comes in a surprising form - that of a long dormant, ancient power. And as all good storytellers say, these ancient powers can be rather tricky.
This has some great world building, but I did keep trying to place the tribe and the invading forces - I think they’re all a product of the authors imagination though (but I keep thinking that the invaders are Romans - I may well be Descriptions we’re such that I thought they could be based on reality.
It’s a great story - very exciting in places, and I loved the stories that the tribes told one another. As with all tales where God-like creatures are involved, they don’t have happy endings, and are cautionary tales.
I really enjoyed this book, and I’ll be keeping an eye open for any more books by this author. Many thanks to The Pigeonhole and to the author for reading along.
A young slave, ParuMe, finds himself in the right place at the right time, and is handed the role of chief of the tribe. As SatuKe, a God-like chief who never dies, he is forced to protect his tribe and the whole island from an invading force who know the secrets of steel. Help comes in a surprising form - that of a long dormant, ancient power. And as all good storytellers say, these ancient powers can be rather tricky.
This has some great world building, but I did keep trying to place the tribe and the invading forces - I think they’re all a product of the authors imagination though (but I keep thinking that the invaders are Romans - I may well be Descriptions we’re such that I thought they could be based on reality.
It’s a great story - very exciting in places, and I loved the stories that the tribes told one another. As with all tales where God-like creatures are involved, they don’t have happy endings, and are cautionary tales.
I really enjoyed this book, and I’ll be keeping an eye open for any more books by this author. Many thanks to The Pigeonhole and to the author for reading along.
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