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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2173 KP) rated Deadly Director’s Cut in Books
Oct 3, 2022 (Updated Oct 3, 2022)
The Director Is Cut Out of the Picture
Hollywood has come to Haggerman’s Catskills Resort as famed director Elias Theropodous has decided to use it for some of the outdoor scenes for his new movie. Elizabeth Grady, the resort’s manager, is thrilled with the money, but not the disruptions to life at the resort, especially with Elias’s demands. However, when he dies after a night of eating and drinking at the resort, Elizabeth quickly realizes she has to find the killer in order to save the resort’s reputation. Can she do it?
Hollywood coming to town is a familiar trope, especially in cozies, but authors continue to use it because it works. That’s certainly the case here. The plot kept me engaged, sometimes reading a little later than I had planned, and I loved how the climax played out, although there is a minor continuity error with the climax. It doesn’t impact who the killer is. I also appreciated how the sub-plots some of the regulars had tie in with this main story yet also felt like natural continuations of their arcs from the first book. Naturally, the new characters are strong as well. I enjoyed the setting; I was ready to book a vacation at the resort myself. I also appreciated the way the 1950’s setting came to life, with little bits of everyday life infusing every page. If you are looking for a fun historical cozy, look no further than this book.
Hollywood coming to town is a familiar trope, especially in cozies, but authors continue to use it because it works. That’s certainly the case here. The plot kept me engaged, sometimes reading a little later than I had planned, and I loved how the climax played out, although there is a minor continuity error with the climax. It doesn’t impact who the killer is. I also appreciated how the sub-plots some of the regulars had tie in with this main story yet also felt like natural continuations of their arcs from the first book. Naturally, the new characters are strong as well. I enjoyed the setting; I was ready to book a vacation at the resort myself. I also appreciated the way the 1950’s setting came to life, with little bits of everyday life infusing every page. If you are looking for a fun historical cozy, look no further than this book.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated The Girl in the Ice (Erika Foster book 1) in Books
Mar 5, 2023
26 of 235
Book
The Girl in the Ice ( Detective Erica Foster # 1)
By Robert Bryndza
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Her eyes are wide open. Her lips parted as if to speak. Her dead body frozen in the ice…She is not the only one.
When a young boy discovers the body of a woman beneath a thick sheet of ice in a South London park, Detective Erika Foster is called in to lead the murder investigation.
The victim, a beautiful young socialite, appeared to have the perfect life. Yet when Erika begins to dig deeper, she starts to connect the dots between the murder and the killings of three prostitutes, all found strangled, hands bound and dumped in water around London.
What dark secrets is the girl in the ice hiding?
As Erika inches closer to uncovering the truth, the killer is closing in on Erika.
The last investigation Erika led went badly wrong… resulting in the death of her husband. With her career hanging by a thread, Erika must now battle her own personal demons as well as a killer more deadly than any she’s faced before. But will she get to him before he strikes again?
I really enjoyed this! I was still guessing right up till the end it was fast paced and a really good read! I think Erica Foster is a character that has to grow on you but she did about half way through! Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Book
The Girl in the Ice ( Detective Erica Foster # 1)
By Robert Bryndza
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Her eyes are wide open. Her lips parted as if to speak. Her dead body frozen in the ice…She is not the only one.
When a young boy discovers the body of a woman beneath a thick sheet of ice in a South London park, Detective Erika Foster is called in to lead the murder investigation.
The victim, a beautiful young socialite, appeared to have the perfect life. Yet when Erika begins to dig deeper, she starts to connect the dots between the murder and the killings of three prostitutes, all found strangled, hands bound and dumped in water around London.
What dark secrets is the girl in the ice hiding?
As Erika inches closer to uncovering the truth, the killer is closing in on Erika.
The last investigation Erika led went badly wrong… resulting in the death of her husband. With her career hanging by a thread, Erika must now battle her own personal demons as well as a killer more deadly than any she’s faced before. But will she get to him before he strikes again?
I really enjoyed this! I was still guessing right up till the end it was fast paced and a really good read! I think Erica Foster is a character that has to grow on you but she did about half way through! Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Heartbreak Bay ( Stillhouse Lake 5) in Books
Nov 1, 2023
162 of 235
Kindle
Heartbreak Bay ( Stillhouse Lake 5)
By Rachel Caine
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They’re hunting a killer so silent, so invisible, that his unspeakable crimes are the only proof he exists.
A car submerged in a remote pond. The bodies of two girls strapped into their seats. The mystery of their mother, vanished without a trace, leads Gwen Proctor and Kezia Claremont into dangerous territory.
On the surface, Gwen’s life is good—two children approaching adulthood, a committed partner, and a harrowing past dead and gone. But that past is attracting the attention of someone invisible…and unstoppable. Trouble’s just beginning. So is the body count in this backwoods Tennessee town.
As threats mount and Gwen’s hunted by an enemy who pulls all the strings, Kezia has her back. But working to solve these vicious and unreasonable crimes will expose them both to a killer they can’t for the life of them see coming.
Loved this kinda had to take a breath after Keiza finds those poor babies I even put it down for a few to just breathe. It was full of tension and I really liked that it was the two kick ass females taking the lead. I did want to shake Sam and say well that was a bit obvious mate!!! Really good ending! This is such a sad place to be knowing this was the last book Rachel Caine sent to be published and I can’t thank her enough for getting me through some hard times. Thank you..
Kindle
Heartbreak Bay ( Stillhouse Lake 5)
By Rachel Caine
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They’re hunting a killer so silent, so invisible, that his unspeakable crimes are the only proof he exists.
A car submerged in a remote pond. The bodies of two girls strapped into their seats. The mystery of their mother, vanished without a trace, leads Gwen Proctor and Kezia Claremont into dangerous territory.
On the surface, Gwen’s life is good—two children approaching adulthood, a committed partner, and a harrowing past dead and gone. But that past is attracting the attention of someone invisible…and unstoppable. Trouble’s just beginning. So is the body count in this backwoods Tennessee town.
As threats mount and Gwen’s hunted by an enemy who pulls all the strings, Kezia has her back. But working to solve these vicious and unreasonable crimes will expose them both to a killer they can’t for the life of them see coming.
Loved this kinda had to take a breath after Keiza finds those poor babies I even put it down for a few to just breathe. It was full of tension and I really liked that it was the two kick ass females taking the lead. I did want to shake Sam and say well that was a bit obvious mate!!! Really good ending! This is such a sad place to be knowing this was the last book Rachel Caine sent to be published and I can’t thank her enough for getting me through some hard times. Thank you..
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2173 KP) rated Murder Out of Character in Books
Mar 1, 2024 (Updated Mar 1, 2024)
Has Marvey Found a Hit List?
The summer fun raising campaign for the library is kicking off with a cocktail reception, and Marvey Harris is in the thick of things thanks to her job. The event goes well, but as the staff is cleaning up, Marvey finds a list of names left behind by someone. She’s intrigued since her good friend Spence is on it as is a man who has just died.
Two days later, another person on the list has died. Marvey can’t help but think she’s found a list that someone is targeting, but she is having a hard time getting anyone to take her seriously. Especially since no one seems to be able to figure out a solid connection between the four people on the list. Can Marvey discover what is going on before a killer strikes again?
I’d intended to get back and finish this series, and I was happy to see the main characters again. While the supporting players could have been a bit better developed, I love Marvey and her friends. They are just wonderful. I was intrigued by the plot, but it didn’t quite work for me. The pacing was off, with some repetitive scenes. While the killer and motive did make sense, there was still a major part of the plot that was never explained. If you are a plot first person, I’d recommend you skip this book. But if you enjoy reading about strong bonds between characters, you will want to check this one out.
Two days later, another person on the list has died. Marvey can’t help but think she’s found a list that someone is targeting, but she is having a hard time getting anyone to take her seriously. Especially since no one seems to be able to figure out a solid connection between the four people on the list. Can Marvey discover what is going on before a killer strikes again?
I’d intended to get back and finish this series, and I was happy to see the main characters again. While the supporting players could have been a bit better developed, I love Marvey and her friends. They are just wonderful. I was intrigued by the plot, but it didn’t quite work for me. The pacing was off, with some repetitive scenes. While the killer and motive did make sense, there was still a major part of the plot that was never explained. If you are a plot first person, I’d recommend you skip this book. But if you enjoy reading about strong bonds between characters, you will want to check this one out.
Mark Halpern (153 KP) rated Full Metal Jacket (1987) in Movies
Jan 3, 2018 (Updated Jan 3, 2018)
This my Rifle This is My gun
This movie is one of the best look into Marine training at Paris Island. The movie is a nice look into the Vietnam war showcasing a great actor in Modine. His character is seen two ways (a killer and protector) and depending on your point of view you get to decide which one he is. The movie is suspenseful and filled with some good history. It also is a little depressing but, what war movie isn't. The best part in my opinion is that R. Lee Ermey was really a Master Sgt in the Marines so he didn't really need training to act the way he did. He frightened Modine as he said in several interviews
Chris Hooker (419 KP) rated All Fall Down (Supervolcano, #2) in Books
Jan 12, 2018
The follow up novel to [Harry Turtledove's] [Supervolcano: Eruption] was worth the read. The continuing story of the characters as they try in their own ways to survive was enjoyable.
[Supervolcano: All Fall Down] picked up right where [Eruption] left off. In the midst of this disaster the way [Turtledove] portrays his characters not as hero's out to save the world but as humans with all their faults makes the story more believable. It even has a serial killer mystery twist within the plot.
I definitely prefer my science fiction based on real science and not super natural. That is what [Turtledove] has produced so far with the two books from the [Supervolcano] series. I like my fantasy with a good does of reality in most cases.
[Supervolcano: All Fall Down] picked up right where [Eruption] left off. In the midst of this disaster the way [Turtledove] portrays his characters not as hero's out to save the world but as humans with all their faults makes the story more believable. It even has a serial killer mystery twist within the plot.
I definitely prefer my science fiction based on real science and not super natural. That is what [Turtledove] has produced so far with the two books from the [Supervolcano] series. I like my fantasy with a good does of reality in most cases.
Suswatibasu (1701 KP) rated I'm Travelling Alone in Books
Jul 27, 2017
Interesting plot but nothing spectacular
There's something enticing about Scandinavian thrillers that shine through imagery of its cold landscape. While it's an interesting story, nothing really seemed to stand out and the parallel story completely fell by the wayside - I suspect this will be picked up in Samuel Bjork's later novels. This goes for the protagonist Mia, who I believe may have a greater role in the following books.
As there are so many components to the story, you won't feel bored as such - but it is still far too long for what it is. The killer is predictable - remember always suspect the extremely nice side characters. So it doesn't break out of the thriller mould unfortunately. Slightly disappointed after all the hype.
As there are so many components to the story, you won't feel bored as such - but it is still far too long for what it is. The killer is predictable - remember always suspect the extremely nice side characters. So it doesn't break out of the thriller mould unfortunately. Slightly disappointed after all the hype.
Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated 1st to Die (Women's Murder Club, #1) in Books
May 10, 2018
I never seem to do things in the right order. This is my third Women's Murderer Club book. I have already read 5 and 6. I gave the book three stars because I didn't like the way it ended.
Four women from four different sides of the law decide to put their collective brains together to solve murder cases. Lindsay the homicide detective, Claire the medical examiner, Jill the assistant district attorney, and Cindy the crime reporter.
When three couples turn up dead after their wedding nights, these ladies work together to find the killer. When they find out that the suspect is someone famous,will Lindsay be able to find enough evidence for an arrest, or will the guilty get away?
Four women from four different sides of the law decide to put their collective brains together to solve murder cases. Lindsay the homicide detective, Claire the medical examiner, Jill the assistant district attorney, and Cindy the crime reporter.
When three couples turn up dead after their wedding nights, these ladies work together to find the killer. When they find out that the suspect is someone famous,will Lindsay be able to find enough evidence for an arrest, or will the guilty get away?
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2173 KP) rated Clobbered by Camembert (A Cheese Shop Mystery, #3) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
The annual Winter Wonderland is about to open when Kaitlyn Clydesdale comes back to town. While she hints at knowing information about Charlotte's parents, Charlotte also wonders if she can trust this woman. Before Charlotte can learn more, Kaitlyn winds up murdered, and the police focus on Rebecca's boyfriend. Can Charlotte clear him of the crime?
The mystery is strong, and I have a hard time figuring out the killer. The story moved quickly, and the characters were mostly great. My only real issue was Rebecca, who is usually a fun character, was so over the top I found her annoying.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/06/book-review-clobbered-by-camembert-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
The mystery is strong, and I have a hard time figuring out the killer. The story moved quickly, and the characters were mostly great. My only real issue was Rebecca, who is usually a fun character, was so over the top I found her annoying.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/06/book-review-clobbered-by-camembert-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2173 KP) rated Stirring the Plot (Cookbook Nook Mystery, #3) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
A local group who have dubbed themselves the Winsome Witches use October to raise funds for literacy. However, this year their leader is murdered. With Jenna’s Aunt Vera a member of the group, Jenna starts poking around to find the killer.
I truly do enjoy these characters, and so I was delighted to spend time with them again. The plot does drag in the middle a bit, but the clues all come together for a great climax. There was also more about Aunt Vera’s supposed psychic abilities than normal, an emphasis I didn’t like. Overall, however, I found this a fun Halloween cozy.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/10/book-review-stirring-plot-by-daryl-wood.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
I truly do enjoy these characters, and so I was delighted to spend time with them again. The plot does drag in the middle a bit, but the clues all come together for a great climax. There was also more about Aunt Vera’s supposed psychic abilities than normal, an emphasis I didn’t like. Overall, however, I found this a fun Halloween cozy.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/10/book-review-stirring-plot-by-daryl-wood.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.