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Alicia S (193 KP) rated Reckless (Thoughtless, #3) in Books
Sep 28, 2018
Loved this series!! How can anyone NOT love Kellan Kyle!? Just the sweetest guy and the love he feels for Kiera is so apparent. I could totally relate to Kiera, I really loved her character and found her to be so much like myself. I loved watching the two of them grow together and was amazed at the level of trust they could find for each other in some of the most difficult situations. I laughing hysterically, loving the banter between the guys on the road, Griffin's mouth ;-) and then, of course, crying at every turn. I CAN'T WAIT to read Kellan's POV!!
Gareth von Kallenbach (965 KP) rated Beastly (2011) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
The beauty and the beast story has officially entered the world of modern fashion in the new film Beastly. In this adaptation we meet Kyle (Alex Pettyfer) a rich kid who believes that a handsome exterior is all that counts in this world. That is until he slights emo student witch Kendra (Mary-Kate Olsen). Kyle soon finds himself with a beastly appearance, cursed until he can overcome his new fractured form and make someone fall in love with him. Adding to the cast is Kyle’s love interest and all around nice girl, Lindy (Vanessa Hudgens). Also notable is Kyle’s mentor/tutor Will played by Neil Patrick Harris.
Sticking closely to the predictable and extremely overdone plot, Beastly offers audiences very little they have not seen before. Kyle is overdramatic. Lindy is suspiciously like the character Vanessa Hudgens played in “High School Musical”. And we learn that Neil Patrick Harris, while always funny, does not play a convincing blind man.
The film does have good scenery and a soundtrack that is high school appropriate. Moreover, the wardrobe is strikingly impressive. But trite dialogue and poorly paced emotional cues give the film a juvenile comedic result. Beastly is amusing and a little funny, however it completely misses the emotional connection expected from a teen adaptation of a famous romantic tale.
Further distracting from the film’s romantic plot are the numerous hollow side stories and plethora of unnecessary character details. From the sudden trip to Kyle’s family cabin to the violent fight between Lindy’s father and a drug dealer, the movie includes numerous scenes that should have been cut.
But still, even with all the downsides, I had no interest in leaving the theater, because Beastly was a high budget train wreck. Not unlike a B-movie in quality and dialogue yet with an impressive budget, an Olsen sister, and some serious face tattoos, “Beastly” is simply cheesy.
Sticking closely to the predictable and extremely overdone plot, Beastly offers audiences very little they have not seen before. Kyle is overdramatic. Lindy is suspiciously like the character Vanessa Hudgens played in “High School Musical”. And we learn that Neil Patrick Harris, while always funny, does not play a convincing blind man.
The film does have good scenery and a soundtrack that is high school appropriate. Moreover, the wardrobe is strikingly impressive. But trite dialogue and poorly paced emotional cues give the film a juvenile comedic result. Beastly is amusing and a little funny, however it completely misses the emotional connection expected from a teen adaptation of a famous romantic tale.
Further distracting from the film’s romantic plot are the numerous hollow side stories and plethora of unnecessary character details. From the sudden trip to Kyle’s family cabin to the violent fight between Lindy’s father and a drug dealer, the movie includes numerous scenes that should have been cut.
But still, even with all the downsides, I had no interest in leaving the theater, because Beastly was a high budget train wreck. Not unlike a B-movie in quality and dialogue yet with an impressive budget, an Olsen sister, and some serious face tattoos, “Beastly” is simply cheesy.
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Obscura Burning in Books
Jan 12, 2021
3.5 stars.
I love the cover of this. It's very sci-fi-y and drew my attention straight away before I even read the synopsis.
So I found this to be a bit confusing with the continuous switching between realities and it took me a while to get used to it, especially keeping up with how all the other characters interacted with Kyle between the two realities he was living. In one people are alive who should have been dead, in the other he was friends with a girl who treated him like crap in the former. Another strange fact is that while he's in one alternate universe, he continues to function in the other, so he zips back and forth and can be in the middle of doing something that he then doesn't remember starting.
The girl I just mentioned above, Mya, tries to help Kyle figure out what's happening by taking him to a scientist/professor who did a paper on multiverses. In the "Danny's dead" world, I really like her, she's friendly and fun, while in "Shira's dead" world, well, she's not. (I think I got that right...)
As for Danny and Shira, I don't think I was a fan of them from the start. I'm not sure why, maybe it was because we never really saw enough of them, or the them before the fire that injured/killed them. But by the end, I definitely didn't like them.
The writing style was easy to get into and I kinda devoured the book when I finally just sat back and let myself read it without any distractions.
Don't be put off with it having a gay relationship in it, there's nothing overtly graphic between Danny and Kyle, just references, it doesn't go into great detail. It doesn't go into detail with Kyle's female relationships either.
This was probably a little too sci-fi for me; alternate universes? Erm...not really my thing but I did enjoy it. If you like sci-fi and mystery then you'll probably like this.
I love the cover of this. It's very sci-fi-y and drew my attention straight away before I even read the synopsis.
So I found this to be a bit confusing with the continuous switching between realities and it took me a while to get used to it, especially keeping up with how all the other characters interacted with Kyle between the two realities he was living. In one people are alive who should have been dead, in the other he was friends with a girl who treated him like crap in the former. Another strange fact is that while he's in one alternate universe, he continues to function in the other, so he zips back and forth and can be in the middle of doing something that he then doesn't remember starting.
The girl I just mentioned above, Mya, tries to help Kyle figure out what's happening by taking him to a scientist/professor who did a paper on multiverses. In the "Danny's dead" world, I really like her, she's friendly and fun, while in "Shira's dead" world, well, she's not. (I think I got that right...)
As for Danny and Shira, I don't think I was a fan of them from the start. I'm not sure why, maybe it was because we never really saw enough of them, or the them before the fire that injured/killed them. But by the end, I definitely didn't like them.
The writing style was easy to get into and I kinda devoured the book when I finally just sat back and let myself read it without any distractions.
Don't be put off with it having a gay relationship in it, there's nothing overtly graphic between Danny and Kyle, just references, it doesn't go into great detail. It doesn't go into detail with Kyle's female relationships either.
This was probably a little too sci-fi for me; alternate universes? Erm...not really my thing but I did enjoy it. If you like sci-fi and mystery then you'll probably like this.
Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated Beast in Books
Jun 21, 2019
Abbott Savage is very mercurial. But one constant in his life has been his love for London. He loves her so much that he knows he's not right for her. Giving her to his best friend, Kyle. Now Kyle has died and London is pregnant with his child. What is Abbott to do? He doesn't want anyone else to take care of London, but he has so many demons in his past, he's not sure if he can take care of her himself.
Thank you to C.M. Seabrook for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I wish I would have known that this was part of a series, now I want to read the rest of the Savage's stories.
Abbott is also known as The Beast of Port Clover. He's a boxer, who uses his fists inside and outside of the ring. The only constant in his life is London. She's been in his life for most of it and knows his heart better than anyone. Can Abbott put his life of debauchery aside in order to get the girl he's always wanted? In this book, I really felt for Abbott. His heart is damaged from his own doing and he doesn't see that it can be healed.
I will definitely go and read the rest of this series.
Thank you to C.M. Seabrook for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I wish I would have known that this was part of a series, now I want to read the rest of the Savage's stories.
Abbott is also known as The Beast of Port Clover. He's a boxer, who uses his fists inside and outside of the ring. The only constant in his life is London. She's been in his life for most of it and knows his heart better than anyone. Can Abbott put his life of debauchery aside in order to get the girl he's always wanted? In this book, I really felt for Abbott. His heart is damaged from his own doing and he doesn't see that it can be healed.
I will definitely go and read the rest of this series.
Rachel King (13 KP) rated Beastly in Books
Feb 11, 2019
I have a small obsession with the classic fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast, so any time a new retelling comes out, I must read it. This version written by Alex Flinn is both modernized and aimed at the Young Adult genre. I was curious to see how closely it would parallel the original fairy tale and still feel like an original story, and I think that it succeeded fairly well. There were parts that felt cliche, and it certainly verged into the realm of fantasy with the presence of the witch, but not so much that I was bothered by these elements. Plus, I liked the ways that the author diverged from the original tale and added new elements, such as the continuing involvement of the witch and the character of Kyle's father.
The plot wraps around the character of Kyle Kingsbury, who becomes the Beast. The book mainly felt like a character study as he progressed from a conceited, self-involved boy to a self-sacrificing, repentant young man. This is certainly a change from most retellings of this tale, since it is usually from the viewpoint of the character who plays the role of "Beauty." Many of the side characters were also just as fascinating, such as the blind tutor who comes to live with Kyle. I love the fascination that Kyle adopted for roses and the details of their care that were included in the book, it gave the book more depth. Probably the most exciting part of the book was his frantic race through New York City and the way that he handled the reactions that he created during this foray.
I know that this book was turned into a movie recently. I have not seen it as of yet, other than the previews, but I do look forward to it. But I already know of one major difference that the movie has from the book, and that is Kyle's beastly appearance is changed to resemble extravagant and disfiguring tattoos. I'll reserve opinion on this until after I've seen the movie.
The plot wraps around the character of Kyle Kingsbury, who becomes the Beast. The book mainly felt like a character study as he progressed from a conceited, self-involved boy to a self-sacrificing, repentant young man. This is certainly a change from most retellings of this tale, since it is usually from the viewpoint of the character who plays the role of "Beauty." Many of the side characters were also just as fascinating, such as the blind tutor who comes to live with Kyle. I love the fascination that Kyle adopted for roses and the details of their care that were included in the book, it gave the book more depth. Probably the most exciting part of the book was his frantic race through New York City and the way that he handled the reactions that he created during this foray.
I know that this book was turned into a movie recently. I have not seen it as of yet, other than the previews, but I do look forward to it. But I already know of one major difference that the movie has from the book, and that is Kyle's beastly appearance is changed to resemble extravagant and disfiguring tattoos. I'll reserve opinion on this until after I've seen the movie.
Merissa (11646 KP) rated Shade Kissed (Phoenix Rising #4) in Books
Dec 6, 2023
SHADE KISSED is the fourth book in the Phoenix Rising series, and we continue with Nicola waking up from a coma. Kyle is overjoyed but Nic isn't quite what he remembers. For a start, she can see! And secondly, she has no idea who she is or what she's done. Fun times.
This book is told from both Nicola and Kyle's perspectives and it goes back and forth from before and after Nicola wakes up. I found that a little confusing but only because I sometimes skipped the title headings to get to the story. I learnt my lesson!
It is a horrible situation for both Nicola and Kyle to be in, and neither of them thinks they're good enough for the other. I loved how West had a go at Rhys and told him exactly what was what. Plus, Aurelia and Mena's reactions were brilliant.
It was good to learn more about Nicola and just what she has endured during her three centuries, but I honestly can't wait to learn more! This book ended right in the middle of the story and my Kindle nearly hit the wall!
Absolutely recommended and I'm looking forward to the next already.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 6, 2023
This book is told from both Nicola and Kyle's perspectives and it goes back and forth from before and after Nicola wakes up. I found that a little confusing but only because I sometimes skipped the title headings to get to the story. I learnt my lesson!
It is a horrible situation for both Nicola and Kyle to be in, and neither of them thinks they're good enough for the other. I loved how West had a go at Rhys and told him exactly what was what. Plus, Aurelia and Mena's reactions were brilliant.
It was good to learn more about Nicola and just what she has endured during her three centuries, but I honestly can't wait to learn more! This book ended right in the middle of the story and my Kindle nearly hit the wall!
Absolutely recommended and I'm looking forward to the next already.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 6, 2023
Lindsay (1693 KP) rated A Christmas in the Alps in Books
Jan 2, 2022
A Christmas in the Alps is a lovely and enjoyable story set for Christmas. You will find yourself wanting to find out more about the two main characters exploring France. This book is set during and takes place mainly in France around Christmas.
We meet Simone while she is cleaning out her great grandma's house. Her friend found a letter and read it to Simone. The letter starts Simone on her journey to discover her great-grandma's treasure and heritage. Will she find more than that? Will she overcome her flying fear? She meets Kyle during her flight from Seattle to France.
This story is doing a bit of genealogy and a bit of romance. So far, it is excellent. It looks like Simone has made at least two friends. There seems to be a mystery going on as well at this point. Is Leon's Aunt related to Simone's Great-grandma, or does she know anything about her Great Grandpa rescued during WW2?
Will Kyle and Simone find love with each other? Will Simone find the true treasure and family? There seems to be a family feud or a rift in a relationship. Can Simone find a solution and fix the relationship with her great aunt? To this end, you will want to read more from this author. Melody Carlson will bring you in to enjoy the culture of her lovely books and Christmas books. This one is no different.
We meet Simone while she is cleaning out her great grandma's house. Her friend found a letter and read it to Simone. The letter starts Simone on her journey to discover her great-grandma's treasure and heritage. Will she find more than that? Will she overcome her flying fear? She meets Kyle during her flight from Seattle to France.
This story is doing a bit of genealogy and a bit of romance. So far, it is excellent. It looks like Simone has made at least two friends. There seems to be a mystery going on as well at this point. Is Leon's Aunt related to Simone's Great-grandma, or does she know anything about her Great Grandpa rescued during WW2?
Will Kyle and Simone find love with each other? Will Simone find the true treasure and family? There seems to be a family feud or a rift in a relationship. Can Simone find a solution and fix the relationship with her great aunt? To this end, you will want to read more from this author. Melody Carlson will bring you in to enjoy the culture of her lovely books and Christmas books. This one is no different.
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated V is for Virgin (V is for Virgin, #1) in Books
Jan 8, 2021
I've made it a mission to read all of Kelly Oram's books after falling in love with a few but I've found that they can be pretty hit or miss. This one was strangely OK; i loved Kyle but he might have gone about things a little wrong, whereas the hype surrounding Val after her admission to being a Virgin just seemed ridiculously overblown. I can't see any of that happening in real life.
That end bit though has me very intrigued. I want them to get together so badly so I'm off to get [b:A is for Abstinence|22089601|A is for Abstinence (V is for Virgin #2)|Kelly Oram|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1436992812s/22089601.jpg|40801675]
That end bit though has me very intrigued. I want them to get together so badly so I'm off to get [b:A is for Abstinence|22089601|A is for Abstinence (V is for Virgin #2)|Kelly Oram|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1436992812s/22089601.jpg|40801675]
David McK (3185 KP) rated Terminator Salvation (2009) in Movies
Nov 1, 2020
Released back in 2009, this was - at the time - meant to be the first in a new trilogy if Terminator films.
This is the one set almost entirely in a post apocalyptic 'future' (2018, so - at the time of reviewing - 2 years ago), with Sam Worthington still riding his fame after Avatar (before seemingly disappearing), and with Christian Bale taking on the role of a grown-up John Connor.
The film, however, is probably more famous for his on-set meltdown/temper tantrum...
No Arnie - for once - and with a young Anton Yelchin (before his unfortunate demise) as Kyle Reese, this is actually better than I remember it to be, if not brilliant.
This is the one set almost entirely in a post apocalyptic 'future' (2018, so - at the time of reviewing - 2 years ago), with Sam Worthington still riding his fame after Avatar (before seemingly disappearing), and with Christian Bale taking on the role of a grown-up John Connor.
The film, however, is probably more famous for his on-set meltdown/temper tantrum...
No Arnie - for once - and with a young Anton Yelchin (before his unfortunate demise) as Kyle Reese, this is actually better than I remember it to be, if not brilliant.
