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Merissa (11612 KP) rated A Reflection of Ice in Books
Apr 12, 2018
A Reflection of Ice by Katherine McIntyre
A Reflection of Ice is a contemporary, urban, fairy-tale suited more to the Brothers Grimm than Disney! Lyra is a young girl at school, struggling with issues in her home life. When she arrives home earlier than expected one day, she sees something she shouldn't and ends up fleeing. During her escape, she finds somewhere new and shiny (literally). Exhausted from her escape, she is rescued and taken into the home. Once she awakens, she finds out she is in between. She has a choice to make - stay in the castle that has sheltered her and kept her safe? Or return to her broken family life and home in the 'real' world?
This is a gripping, enthralling read that would seamlessly fit with stories of old; where fairy-tales were meant as warnings, not as glitter covered cupcakes. The descriptions in this story give the whole thing a feeling of foreboding, an eeriness guaranteed to seep into your veins as you read. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, and I read this book in one sitting as I did not want to put it down. An amazing story from a brilliant author. This is another jewel in the crown of Katherine McIntyre. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This is a gripping, enthralling read that would seamlessly fit with stories of old; where fairy-tales were meant as warnings, not as glitter covered cupcakes. The descriptions in this story give the whole thing a feeling of foreboding, an eeriness guaranteed to seep into your veins as you read. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, and I read this book in one sitting as I did not want to put it down. An amazing story from a brilliant author. This is another jewel in the crown of Katherine McIntyre. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Merissa (11612 KP) rated Desire at Roosevelt Ranch (Roosevelt Ranch #5) in Books
Dec 7, 2019
Desire at Roosevelt Ranch is the fifth and final book in this series, and we have bad-boy Rex's story. He is hit by cupid's arrow when he stops one night to help a damsel in distress, none other than Tilly from Henry's Diner. Tilly knows all about Rex and doesn't expect anything from him. Rex surprises himself by wanting everything with Tilly.
Rex is a bit underhanded in some ways, but I loved that because that is part of his character. He isn't one to flaunt his help, but will do it quietly and without fanfare. Tilly doesn't know quite what to do with this as how he is behaving with her is very different to what she expected.
I am very sad to come to the end of this series. The small town of Darlington with its inhabitants have come alive to me through Elise Faber's writing. There are quirks and witticisms that have made me smile with each book.
The ultimate jewel in the crown, this book has knocked Sam and Haley off their perch and taken their place as my favourite of the series. Sam and Haley remain just half a star behind though!
This is a fantastic series that can be read as standalones, but seriously, why do that? Get your mitts on each and every one of these, as recommended by me.
* 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!
Rex is a bit underhanded in some ways, but I loved that because that is part of his character. He isn't one to flaunt his help, but will do it quietly and without fanfare. Tilly doesn't know quite what to do with this as how he is behaving with her is very different to what she expected.
I am very sad to come to the end of this series. The small town of Darlington with its inhabitants have come alive to me through Elise Faber's writing. There are quirks and witticisms that have made me smile with each book.
The ultimate jewel in the crown, this book has knocked Sam and Haley off their perch and taken their place as my favourite of the series. Sam and Haley remain just half a star behind though!
This is a fantastic series that can be read as standalones, but seriously, why do that? Get your mitts on each and every one of these, as recommended by me.
* 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!
LeftSideCut (3778 KP) rated Logan (2017) in Movies
Sep 20, 2019 (Updated Sep 20, 2019)
The crown jewel in Fox's X-Men saga
Logan is easily one of the best comic book movies out there.
This is the third solo outing for Wolverine (following one garbage pile attempt, and one annoyingly average attempt), James Mangold really pulled it out of the bag for this one.
The characters are great - Hugh Jackman at the top of his game for his final performance as Logan. He's a grizzled and pain ridden man, in this bleak, mutantless future.
Patrick Stewart is also at his best here as Charles Xavier. The two of them are the beating heart of this movie.
We're introduced to Dafne Keen (playing a young X-23) who rounds out the small cast nicely.
As Logan fights a shadowy organization to keep her safe, the stakes have never been higher, and no one feels safe at any point - something that has never really been explored in the X-Men franchise.
Logan is a hard film to watch, it's bleak, its gritty, it's not particularly colourful (especially if you opt for the brilliant Noir version), and it's brutally violent in parts.
The set pieces are nasty in places, and sometimes pretty shocking, but it all aids the narrative here - the narrative that Wolverine is an ailing old man, who is struggling against all odds to do one last good deed, and protect the few people that still mean something to him.
It's an emotional and powerful film, that deserves all the praise bestowed upon it - amazing work from everyone involved .
This is the third solo outing for Wolverine (following one garbage pile attempt, and one annoyingly average attempt), James Mangold really pulled it out of the bag for this one.
The characters are great - Hugh Jackman at the top of his game for his final performance as Logan. He's a grizzled and pain ridden man, in this bleak, mutantless future.
Patrick Stewart is also at his best here as Charles Xavier. The two of them are the beating heart of this movie.
We're introduced to Dafne Keen (playing a young X-23) who rounds out the small cast nicely.
As Logan fights a shadowy organization to keep her safe, the stakes have never been higher, and no one feels safe at any point - something that has never really been explored in the X-Men franchise.
Logan is a hard film to watch, it's bleak, its gritty, it's not particularly colourful (especially if you opt for the brilliant Noir version), and it's brutally violent in parts.
The set pieces are nasty in places, and sometimes pretty shocking, but it all aids the narrative here - the narrative that Wolverine is an ailing old man, who is struggling against all odds to do one last good deed, and protect the few people that still mean something to him.
It's an emotional and powerful film, that deserves all the praise bestowed upon it - amazing work from everyone involved .
Merissa (11612 KP) rated Opposed Desires (Rehoboth Pact #2) in Books
Nov 5, 2021 (Updated Jul 10, 2023)
OPPOSED DESIRES is the second book in the Rehoboth Pact series. We met Aubrey briefly in Sky and Mia's book, but now we meet her again and find out more about this complex character.
Opposites attract, so they say, and these two fit that description perfectly. Both have been burned in past relationships, but where one goes one way, the other goes the other. Make sense? It will, trust me. I loved the build-up between these two, and how secrets were spilt during moonlit walks on the beach. Who doesn't like that?! I loved how there was no simple, straightforward fix. Instead, we have a push/pull situation where both of them are scared to move forward.
I found the world-building to be just as good as book one. The characters remain amazing and quirky in their own unique ways. This is steamy and so well-written. They actually learn about each other, instead of 'instinctively' knowing which buttons to push. And the ending was all I could have wished for.
I enjoyed Sky and Mia's story. I loved Aubrey and Selina's. The only trouble I've got is Kyle is next (who I can't wait for) and if the trend continues, I'll need another star!
A shining jewel in Ms McIntyre's crown! Absolutely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Nov 5, 2021
Opposites attract, so they say, and these two fit that description perfectly. Both have been burned in past relationships, but where one goes one way, the other goes the other. Make sense? It will, trust me. I loved the build-up between these two, and how secrets were spilt during moonlit walks on the beach. Who doesn't like that?! I loved how there was no simple, straightforward fix. Instead, we have a push/pull situation where both of them are scared to move forward.
I found the world-building to be just as good as book one. The characters remain amazing and quirky in their own unique ways. This is steamy and so well-written. They actually learn about each other, instead of 'instinctively' knowing which buttons to push. And the ending was all I could have wished for.
I enjoyed Sky and Mia's story. I loved Aubrey and Selina's. The only trouble I've got is Kyle is next (who I can't wait for) and if the trend continues, I'll need another star!
A shining jewel in Ms McIntyre's crown! Absolutely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Nov 5, 2021
Merissa (11612 KP) rated Fighting the Lure (Fighting for Love) in Books
Jan 19, 2024 (Updated Jan 19, 2024)
FIGHTING THE LURE is part of the multi-author Fighting for Love series, and I am in love and want more!
Sam left home ten years ago, leaving her parents and younger sister behind. When she tried to contact Nina, she was shut down. So Sam disappeared out of their lives, leaving a younger Ames wondering where her crush had gone. Time moves on and Ames moves to a new city and a new gym, and wouldn't you just know it...
Hot and intense - I loved every word, every thought, and every scene. The connection between Ames and Sam is instantaneous. Sparks fly, my friend, think fireworks. BUT it wasn't all about getting hot and heavy. There was so much more to these two. They connected on every level, not just the physical.
So many characters that I enjoyed reading about, and I'm really hoping Brooks and Emmit have their own stories. I may just have to check out the other books in this series! I also hope Nina gets her HEA! I think she deserves one after being lied to for all these years. Plus, she lives so far away from Ames now! 😄
A great read that I HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Another jewel in Katherine McIntyre's crown!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Jan 15, 2024
Sam left home ten years ago, leaving her parents and younger sister behind. When she tried to contact Nina, she was shut down. So Sam disappeared out of their lives, leaving a younger Ames wondering where her crush had gone. Time moves on and Ames moves to a new city and a new gym, and wouldn't you just know it...
Hot and intense - I loved every word, every thought, and every scene. The connection between Ames and Sam is instantaneous. Sparks fly, my friend, think fireworks. BUT it wasn't all about getting hot and heavy. There was so much more to these two. They connected on every level, not just the physical.
So many characters that I enjoyed reading about, and I'm really hoping Brooks and Emmit have their own stories. I may just have to check out the other books in this series! I also hope Nina gets her HEA! I think she deserves one after being lied to for all these years. Plus, she lives so far away from Ames now! 😄
A great read that I HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Another jewel in Katherine McIntyre's crown!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Jan 15, 2024
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Go Slow - Single by Wild B in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Wild B (Krystal Parks) is a singer-songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. Not too long ago, she released a lovely tropical R&B tune, entitled, “Go Slow”.
“Sipping champagne while he whispers my name. I never been scared, we can go, we can play. Dripped in Balmain, don’t care what they say. Rock the boat, roll the boat, rock my body. You’re my type of speed. I think you should take the lead. Can you be all I need or more? I can throw it back when you throw it down. I can be the jewel on your tilted crown. Now tell me how you want to end the night.” – lyrics
‘Go Slow’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who shares a special moment in time on the dancefloor with a guy who she desires to be with.
Apparently, what he possesses she likes, therefore, she wants him all to herself for the remainder of the night.
‘Go Slow’ contains a dreamy storyline, pleasing vocals, and rhythmic instrumentation scented with a tropical R&B fragrance.
“‘Go Slow’ was birthed on the night of a spontaneous encounter with a beautiful stranger. In the midst of a fast life in an even faster world, we caught a moment that we unintentionally made last forever. Now when I close my eyes, I remember it in slow motion, as if the universe slowed especially for us to cherish. Not only is it a memory but a reminder of the fulfillment I/we can all receive but just slowing down and enjoying the beauty of NOW.” – Wild B
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/wild-b-go-slow/
“Sipping champagne while he whispers my name. I never been scared, we can go, we can play. Dripped in Balmain, don’t care what they say. Rock the boat, roll the boat, rock my body. You’re my type of speed. I think you should take the lead. Can you be all I need or more? I can throw it back when you throw it down. I can be the jewel on your tilted crown. Now tell me how you want to end the night.” – lyrics
‘Go Slow’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who shares a special moment in time on the dancefloor with a guy who she desires to be with.
Apparently, what he possesses she likes, therefore, she wants him all to herself for the remainder of the night.
‘Go Slow’ contains a dreamy storyline, pleasing vocals, and rhythmic instrumentation scented with a tropical R&B fragrance.
“‘Go Slow’ was birthed on the night of a spontaneous encounter with a beautiful stranger. In the midst of a fast life in an even faster world, we caught a moment that we unintentionally made last forever. Now when I close my eyes, I remember it in slow motion, as if the universe slowed especially for us to cherish. Not only is it a memory but a reminder of the fulfillment I/we can all receive but just slowing down and enjoying the beauty of NOW.” – Wild B
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/wild-b-go-slow/
JT (287 KP) rated Robot & Frank (2012) in Movies
Mar 10, 2020
Frank (Frank Langella) is slowing drifting into dementia, although his stiff upper lip and stubbornness refuse him to believe that there is anything wrong. His children fight to offer help despite an ongoing sense of resentment that they have to. When his son Hunter presents Frank with a robot butler designed to look after him he finds another more profitable use for it.
The portrayal of old age in any film can be depressing. We’re all going to end up that way at some point in our lives whether we like it or not. The only control we have is do we go quietly or kicking and screaming. The robot (voiced by Peter Sarsgaard) is not given a name but his calming presence and dry underlying humour make him a perfect compliment for Frank’s brash and rather direct old timer.
Frank’s hidden past was as a jewel thief, spending most of his early life inside made it clear that he was not a good father to either of his children, and he’s been divorced from his wife for some time. It’s a beautifully written script set near enough in the future that it still is in keeping with present day surroundings – uniquely different mobile phones and voice activated Skype chat seem to be the more futuristic of the technologies, robots aside.
As their relationship develops the bond between them becomes closer. It feels very much like a real life Wall-E, Frank relaxes to become dependant on the Robot. It’s a solid film with great central performances with controlled and light hearted direction. The plot is wayward at times but it holds well for the duration.
The portrayal of old age in any film can be depressing. We’re all going to end up that way at some point in our lives whether we like it or not. The only control we have is do we go quietly or kicking and screaming. The robot (voiced by Peter Sarsgaard) is not given a name but his calming presence and dry underlying humour make him a perfect compliment for Frank’s brash and rather direct old timer.
Frank’s hidden past was as a jewel thief, spending most of his early life inside made it clear that he was not a good father to either of his children, and he’s been divorced from his wife for some time. It’s a beautifully written script set near enough in the future that it still is in keeping with present day surroundings – uniquely different mobile phones and voice activated Skype chat seem to be the more futuristic of the technologies, robots aside.
As their relationship develops the bond between them becomes closer. It feels very much like a real life Wall-E, Frank relaxes to become dependant on the Robot. It’s a solid film with great central performances with controlled and light hearted direction. The plot is wayward at times but it holds well for the duration.
Merissa (11612 KP) rated The Successor (Tales of Pern Coen) in Books
Mar 24, 2023
THE SUCCESSOR is a standalone book in the Tales of Pern Coen series and, next to Wraidd Elfennol, Pern Coen is my favourite island to be on.
We leave the Wolf Clan and move to Ceffyl, the Horse Spirit's home. The villagers are suffering and Geraint isn't at all concerned. He sends his distant cousin, Torin, off to find his ex-wife, Briallen. She has something Geraint wants, and he isn't prepared to accept no as an answer.
I loved this story! Torin and Briallen are perfect together, the warrior and the healer. Their relationship takes time to build and it is all the stronger for it. Cleena, Geraint's current wife, could have just been a simpering fool but, instead, she comes into her own, using her own mind and not just accepting what she is being told. Siarl and Gwyn are the best friends and Maldwyn is the mother figure. And we can't forget the kids, Hywel, Aneirin, and Deidre. All of these characters simply MAKE this book.
I will admit, I wanted Briallen and Torin to have their cottage by the sea but, I'm hoping, they will still have it as a romantic getaway! LOL The ending was absolutely perfect for the story. It certainly made my eyes leak.
Another jewel in the crown of Pern Coen and HIGHLY recommended by me.
* same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
We leave the Wolf Clan and move to Ceffyl, the Horse Spirit's home. The villagers are suffering and Geraint isn't at all concerned. He sends his distant cousin, Torin, off to find his ex-wife, Briallen. She has something Geraint wants, and he isn't prepared to accept no as an answer.
I loved this story! Torin and Briallen are perfect together, the warrior and the healer. Their relationship takes time to build and it is all the stronger for it. Cleena, Geraint's current wife, could have just been a simpering fool but, instead, she comes into her own, using her own mind and not just accepting what she is being told. Siarl and Gwyn are the best friends and Maldwyn is the mother figure. And we can't forget the kids, Hywel, Aneirin, and Deidre. All of these characters simply MAKE this book.
I will admit, I wanted Briallen and Torin to have their cottage by the sea but, I'm hoping, they will still have it as a romantic getaway! LOL The ending was absolutely perfect for the story. It certainly made my eyes leak.
Another jewel in the crown of Pern Coen and HIGHLY recommended by me.
* same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Merissa (11612 KP) rated The Vampire Will See You Now (Psy-Vamp #4) in Books
Apr 11, 2023
FINALLY, we have Justin and Caitlin's story. Now, for those of you that haven't read any of the Psy-Vamp series, you don't really have to get the story but it does make more sense if you have. Personally, I would get all of them and settle down for a Psy-Vamp session if you haven't already but that's just me!
Justin and Caitlin are mentioned in all three previous books and I have been waiting for their story to come out. We finally get it with Caitlin and Justin suffering after an event that happened in the previous book (like I said, not necessary but it does help!). Justin decides that the best thing for Caitlin is for him to leave but Caitlin decides to take things into her own hands.
This book has had me in stitches as Caitlin's supposed "quiet time" for her ultimatum to Justin becomes one of the busiest the house has seen. We have characters old and new who pop up which was a great way to catch up on how they're all getting along. One thing I have to add is that I loved the differences between Justin and Caitlin's mothers - absolutely brilliant.
Like all previous books, in this series and the other books by Cassandra Lawson, the wit is in full flow. The women are strong and the men are Alpha. Another jewel in the crown of the Psy-Vamp series. Loved it!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 8, 2016
Justin and Caitlin are mentioned in all three previous books and I have been waiting for their story to come out. We finally get it with Caitlin and Justin suffering after an event that happened in the previous book (like I said, not necessary but it does help!). Justin decides that the best thing for Caitlin is for him to leave but Caitlin decides to take things into her own hands.
This book has had me in stitches as Caitlin's supposed "quiet time" for her ultimatum to Justin becomes one of the busiest the house has seen. We have characters old and new who pop up which was a great way to catch up on how they're all getting along. One thing I have to add is that I loved the differences between Justin and Caitlin's mothers - absolutely brilliant.
Like all previous books, in this series and the other books by Cassandra Lawson, the wit is in full flow. The women are strong and the men are Alpha. Another jewel in the crown of the Psy-Vamp series. Loved it!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 8, 2016
Merissa (11612 KP) rated Little Treasure He Hides (Little Paws Haven #1) in Books
Jul 21, 2022 (Updated Jul 26, 2023)
LITTLE TREASURE HE HIDES is the first book in the Little Paws Haven series, and I want to return there now!
I will say, Gabai got off to a very poor start. I didn't like how he acted when he first saw his mate; nope, not at all. However, luckily for me and for Asher, he realised what a pillock he'd been and changed how he treated Asher. After that, I soon warmed up to the big ole teddy bear who will not hesitate to protect his mate - even if Asher is more than capable of looking after himself. With his backstory, it shows how much he appreciates the care and affection. Yes, he can take care of himself, but he can relax and let Gabai do it, knowing he has his best interests at heart.
There wasn't a part of this story I didn't like (apart from what I've already said). I loved how Gabai's side of the story - with the attacks at his club - was handled. And Asher's just broke my heart before rebuilding it piece by piece.
I have just one question for the two amazing authors though - please, please, PLEASE tell me Rocco gets his story. I want to give him a hug!!!!
Full of amazing characters, action, and a brilliant storyline, this is highly recommended by me. Another jewel in the crown!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Jul 11, 2022
I will say, Gabai got off to a very poor start. I didn't like how he acted when he first saw his mate; nope, not at all. However, luckily for me and for Asher, he realised what a pillock he'd been and changed how he treated Asher. After that, I soon warmed up to the big ole teddy bear who will not hesitate to protect his mate - even if Asher is more than capable of looking after himself. With his backstory, it shows how much he appreciates the care and affection. Yes, he can take care of himself, but he can relax and let Gabai do it, knowing he has his best interests at heart.
There wasn't a part of this story I didn't like (apart from what I've already said). I loved how Gabai's side of the story - with the attacks at his club - was handled. And Asher's just broke my heart before rebuilding it piece by piece.
I have just one question for the two amazing authors though - please, please, PLEASE tell me Rocco gets his story. I want to give him a hug!!!!
Full of amazing characters, action, and a brilliant storyline, this is highly recommended by me. Another jewel in the crown!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Jul 11, 2022