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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2165 KP) rated Forget Me Knot in Books
May 25, 2019
Can Martha Solve a Knotty Murder?
Martha Rose and her friends Lucy and Birdie was considering expanding their Tuesday quilting group, but when they show up to Claire Terry’s house that Tuesday morning, they find Claire’s dead body. Then, one of her quilts is stolen from an expo that weekend, and Martha really begins to wonder what is happening. Is the quilt theft related to Claire’s death?
I don’t tend to pick up as many crafting cozies as I do other sub-genres, but I’m glad I made an exception for this book. The pacing was a little uneven early on, but the book is setting up a great second half, and that half completely had me hooked as the twists began to come quickly, leading to a great climax. The book does venture into some darker waters for a cozy, but I felt it handled them well. The characters, both series regulars and suspects, are all strong, and I really began to like the main trio by the end. I did find the very occasional political sniping in the first half a little off putting. I suspect it was supposed to be funny, but I didn’t find it that way. Hopefully, this is dropped as the series progresses. Unlike many cozies, this one is set in the suburban sprawl of the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles County. This is just south of where I live, so I enjoyed seeing places I recognize in the book, and I still felt this had the cozy charm despite the larger setting. It is easy to see why this series has done well, and I hope to find time for the sequel at some point soon.
I don’t tend to pick up as many crafting cozies as I do other sub-genres, but I’m glad I made an exception for this book. The pacing was a little uneven early on, but the book is setting up a great second half, and that half completely had me hooked as the twists began to come quickly, leading to a great climax. The book does venture into some darker waters for a cozy, but I felt it handled them well. The characters, both series regulars and suspects, are all strong, and I really began to like the main trio by the end. I did find the very occasional political sniping in the first half a little off putting. I suspect it was supposed to be funny, but I didn’t find it that way. Hopefully, this is dropped as the series progresses. Unlike many cozies, this one is set in the suburban sprawl of the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles County. This is just south of where I live, so I enjoyed seeing places I recognize in the book, and I still felt this had the cozy charm despite the larger setting. It is easy to see why this series has done well, and I hope to find time for the sequel at some point soon.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2165 KP) rated Taken in Books
Jun 5, 2019
Elvis Cole and Joe Pike Track the Taken
Los Angeles PI Elvis Cole is hired by Nita Morales to find her daughter Krista. Krista and her boyfriend, Jack, disappeared several days ago. Nita has received a ransom call, but she was only asked for $500. Surely, this is just Krista and Jack trying to get some money from Nita so they can elope, right? However, Elvis quickly begins to determine that Krista and Jack are in serious danger; they’ve been kidnapped by a group that captures illegal immigrants trying to get into California. But knowing what happened to them only increases the stakes. Can Elvis and his partner, Joe Pike, find the two young adults and rescue them before it is too late?
This book is an amazing thrill ride. The story starts off fast, and it never really lets go until we reach the end. However, it is too much like a movie thriller, which means it has some serious weaknesses. The characters, even series leads Elvis Cole and Joe Pike, are shallow. This doesn’t help since there are a lot of players we have to try to keep straight. Author Robert Crais uses shifting timelines to help increase the tension, which works as intended, but he notes the time in a way that grows confusing as the book progresses; he even spoils a major plot point early on as a result. The book is brutal and filled with foul language. While I expect that when reading one of Robert Crais’s books, this one seemed excessive, even by his standards. Despite all these negatives, I still found the book extremely addicting and impossible to stop thinking about. It’s worth reading as long as you keep your expectations appropriate going into the book.
This book is an amazing thrill ride. The story starts off fast, and it never really lets go until we reach the end. However, it is too much like a movie thriller, which means it has some serious weaknesses. The characters, even series leads Elvis Cole and Joe Pike, are shallow. This doesn’t help since there are a lot of players we have to try to keep straight. Author Robert Crais uses shifting timelines to help increase the tension, which works as intended, but he notes the time in a way that grows confusing as the book progresses; he even spoils a major plot point early on as a result. The book is brutal and filled with foul language. While I expect that when reading one of Robert Crais’s books, this one seemed excessive, even by his standards. Despite all these negatives, I still found the book extremely addicting and impossible to stop thinking about. It’s worth reading as long as you keep your expectations appropriate going into the book.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Andreas Moss by Andreas Moss in Music
Jun 7, 2019
Andreas Moss is a Swedish-born, Nashville-bred, and Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter. Not too long ago, he released his self-titled 7-track debut EP featuring Yachtmoney and Melanie Pfirrman.
Moss (Jonathan Thulin) has amassed Dove Awards, number-one records, and headlined tours as a Christian recording artist before making the transition to pop music in recent years. After struggling with the acceptance of his sexuality within the church, the sexually fluid singer decided to go his own way. And now, he’s unveiling what he has discovered on his debut project.
“STUCK IN MY FEELINGS”
The Matthew Underwood-directed video shows a couple making love. Also, the following scenes aren’t too cozy, as their communication dwindles.
“KODAK”
Moss sings about a relationship issue. He’s over his head in a relationship with a woman he loves. His adoration for her is tearing him up and he knows it. Also, he references the relationship being kodak or looking picture perfect on the outside. But internally, he’s dead like a corpse.
“KOKAIN”
Moss sings about being addicted to cocaine. Also, he highlights the pain of a woman he hurt while being an addict. She’s had it up to here with his inability to rid himself of an addiction that’s detrimental to their long-term relationship.
“DEAR MISERY”
Moss bares his soul and unveils his departure from being an addict and living in misery. He sings about this touching breakup on a remarkable ballad perfumed with hopefulness.
CONCLUSION
Andrea Moss’s self-titled debut project takes listeners on a relatable journey through love, addiction, and redemption. There’s a myriad of emotions felt
throughout the voyage, but the outcome is attractively wonderful.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/andreas-moss-debut-ep/
Moss (Jonathan Thulin) has amassed Dove Awards, number-one records, and headlined tours as a Christian recording artist before making the transition to pop music in recent years. After struggling with the acceptance of his sexuality within the church, the sexually fluid singer decided to go his own way. And now, he’s unveiling what he has discovered on his debut project.
“STUCK IN MY FEELINGS”
The Matthew Underwood-directed video shows a couple making love. Also, the following scenes aren’t too cozy, as their communication dwindles.
“KODAK”
Moss sings about a relationship issue. He’s over his head in a relationship with a woman he loves. His adoration for her is tearing him up and he knows it. Also, he references the relationship being kodak or looking picture perfect on the outside. But internally, he’s dead like a corpse.
“KOKAIN”
Moss sings about being addicted to cocaine. Also, he highlights the pain of a woman he hurt while being an addict. She’s had it up to here with his inability to rid himself of an addiction that’s detrimental to their long-term relationship.
“DEAR MISERY”
Moss bares his soul and unveils his departure from being an addict and living in misery. He sings about this touching breakup on a remarkable ballad perfumed with hopefulness.
CONCLUSION
Andrea Moss’s self-titled debut project takes listeners on a relatable journey through love, addiction, and redemption. There’s a myriad of emotions felt
throughout the voyage, but the outcome is attractively wonderful.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/andreas-moss-debut-ep/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Caution - Single by Celeste Arrazolo in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Celeste Arrazolo is a singer-songwriter from Houston, Texas. Not too long ago, she released a lyric video for her debut single, entitled, “Caution”.
“I’m not going. I’m not leaving this bar or this place. I came here for answers. Made so many mistakes. I’ve been down, I’ve been low, I’ve been high every chance that I get. It’s been such a lonely road ain’t got no relief yet.” – lyrics
‘Caution’ tells a bittersweet tale of a girl with sad eyes who doesn’t want to leave a bar because she’s searching for answers to her problems.
The bartender is sympathetic to her cause and offers her one last drink before the bar closes.
Lost in the moment, the girl reveals that religion has deserted her, and God has forgotten her name.
Later, she admits that no smart person should want any part of her because she’s a mess. Also, she’ll bring them down and hurt them with lies to survive. Therefore, they should proceed with caution when dealing with her.
‘Caution’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and melodic instrumentation flavored with emo-soul and R&B elements.
“‘Caution’ is a climax in an internal struggle. It’s about losing your way. I want listeners to be able to meet me in that moment.” – Celeste Arrazolo
Celeste Arrazolo flew to Los Angeles as soon as she had her diploma in hand. Shortly afterward, she encountered hard times, and her life spiraled out of control.
She turned to music for solace and eventually discovered a path to redemption and freedom. Through endless hours of studying powerhouse singers and songwriters, Arrazolo learned to translate her experience into her music.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/celeste-arrazolo-caution/
“I’m not going. I’m not leaving this bar or this place. I came here for answers. Made so many mistakes. I’ve been down, I’ve been low, I’ve been high every chance that I get. It’s been such a lonely road ain’t got no relief yet.” – lyrics
‘Caution’ tells a bittersweet tale of a girl with sad eyes who doesn’t want to leave a bar because she’s searching for answers to her problems.
The bartender is sympathetic to her cause and offers her one last drink before the bar closes.
Lost in the moment, the girl reveals that religion has deserted her, and God has forgotten her name.
Later, she admits that no smart person should want any part of her because she’s a mess. Also, she’ll bring them down and hurt them with lies to survive. Therefore, they should proceed with caution when dealing with her.
‘Caution’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and melodic instrumentation flavored with emo-soul and R&B elements.
“‘Caution’ is a climax in an internal struggle. It’s about losing your way. I want listeners to be able to meet me in that moment.” – Celeste Arrazolo
Celeste Arrazolo flew to Los Angeles as soon as she had her diploma in hand. Shortly afterward, she encountered hard times, and her life spiraled out of control.
She turned to music for solace and eventually discovered a path to redemption and freedom. Through endless hours of studying powerhouse singers and songwriters, Arrazolo learned to translate her experience into her music.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/celeste-arrazolo-caution/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated I Want Your Love - Single by Wes Mason in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Wes Mason is an award-winning recording artist based in Toronto, Canada. Not too long ago, he released a music video for his “I Want Your Love” single featuring Wyclef Jean’s protege Kofi Black.
“Some songs are close to finished when you bring them into the studio. But some songs happen spontaneously and come to life unexpectedly during a party. This is one of those songs that is simply the result of having a great time with great people in the studio.” – Wes Mason
‘I Want Your Love’ song tells an adoring tale of a young guy who finds himself in the presence of a desirable female who wants him in more ways than one.
Apparently, it’s 2:00 AM in the morning and they are dancing on each other at a crowded social event or party.
An hour later, she has her hands all over his body and he’s loving every moment of her touch. Later, inside a nearby hotel room, they kiss and make love.
‘I Want Your Love’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and vibey instrumentation flavored with tropical, contemporary R&B, and commercial pop elements.
The likable island-inspired tune was recorded at the legendary Tito Jackson’s private studio in Los Angeles. Also, at the historic Kensington Sound in Toronto.
It will be featured on Wes Mason’s upcoming album, entitled, “The Animal Inside”.
“I ultimately just want my music to affect people the same way that my favorite artists have affected me. It’s crazy how somebody else’s story can become your own.” – Wes Mason
At the age of 20, Wes Mason has amassed as many accolades as artists twice his age.
So far, he has won numerous international music awards and gained tens of millions of media impressions across TV, radio, and online.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/wes-mason-i-want-your-love-video/
“Some songs are close to finished when you bring them into the studio. But some songs happen spontaneously and come to life unexpectedly during a party. This is one of those songs that is simply the result of having a great time with great people in the studio.” – Wes Mason
‘I Want Your Love’ song tells an adoring tale of a young guy who finds himself in the presence of a desirable female who wants him in more ways than one.
Apparently, it’s 2:00 AM in the morning and they are dancing on each other at a crowded social event or party.
An hour later, she has her hands all over his body and he’s loving every moment of her touch. Later, inside a nearby hotel room, they kiss and make love.
‘I Want Your Love’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and vibey instrumentation flavored with tropical, contemporary R&B, and commercial pop elements.
The likable island-inspired tune was recorded at the legendary Tito Jackson’s private studio in Los Angeles. Also, at the historic Kensington Sound in Toronto.
It will be featured on Wes Mason’s upcoming album, entitled, “The Animal Inside”.
“I ultimately just want my music to affect people the same way that my favorite artists have affected me. It’s crazy how somebody else’s story can become your own.” – Wes Mason
At the age of 20, Wes Mason has amassed as many accolades as artists twice his age.
So far, he has won numerous international music awards and gained tens of millions of media impressions across TV, radio, and online.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/wes-mason-i-want-your-love-video/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated It's Different Now by Dax in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Dax is a 24-year-old Los Angeles-based hip-hop artist from Ottawa, Canada. Not too long ago, he released a music video for his “Did It First” single.
“Where I’m from they never did it, I did it first. Rap game wasn’t sh*t, I gave it birth. I told them ni^^as I would make ‘cause I wasn’t stopping. They was laughing now I’m laughing ‘cause I know they watching.” – lyrics
‘Did It First’ tells an introspective tale which is told from Dax’s point of view.
Apparently, he used to tell an unbeliever (a fake local rapper) and other haters that he would fulfill his rap dreams. But they laughed at him because they couldn’t visualize his vision, which expanded way beyond Kansas.
Now Dax is a successful rap artist, and the same people who didn’t believe in his dreams are saying that he got lucky, a guppy who hit the lottery.
Also, Dax admitted that he is a prophet because he told his haters that he would make it big in the rap game and he did.
“When I left home, I left with the mindset that I’m not coming back until I bring something back. You know sometimes you gotta give the people something to believe in. Go get it. I didn’t expect nobody to believe in my dream because it wasn’t theirs in the first place. That’s what I did.” – Dax
‘Did It First’ is featured on Dax’s debut EP, entitled, “It’s Different Now”.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline and spirited rap vocals. Also, the song possesses lush instrumentation flavored with hip-hop and trap elements.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/dax-did-it-first/
“Where I’m from they never did it, I did it first. Rap game wasn’t sh*t, I gave it birth. I told them ni^^as I would make ‘cause I wasn’t stopping. They was laughing now I’m laughing ‘cause I know they watching.” – lyrics
‘Did It First’ tells an introspective tale which is told from Dax’s point of view.
Apparently, he used to tell an unbeliever (a fake local rapper) and other haters that he would fulfill his rap dreams. But they laughed at him because they couldn’t visualize his vision, which expanded way beyond Kansas.
Now Dax is a successful rap artist, and the same people who didn’t believe in his dreams are saying that he got lucky, a guppy who hit the lottery.
Also, Dax admitted that he is a prophet because he told his haters that he would make it big in the rap game and he did.
“When I left home, I left with the mindset that I’m not coming back until I bring something back. You know sometimes you gotta give the people something to believe in. Go get it. I didn’t expect nobody to believe in my dream because it wasn’t theirs in the first place. That’s what I did.” – Dax
‘Did It First’ is featured on Dax’s debut EP, entitled, “It’s Different Now”.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline and spirited rap vocals. Also, the song possesses lush instrumentation flavored with hip-hop and trap elements.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/dax-did-it-first/
Gareth von Kallenbach (977 KP) rated The Wolves of Savin Hill (2014) in Movies
Aug 16, 2019
The indie movie, The Wolves of Savin Hill is a very fine directorial debut for John Beaton Hill. He also wrote this story where sentimentalities and brutality clash between two best friends who have lost touch over the years. In their youth, they made a promise youth that now haunts them as they are adults. In what results is a trial of what’s left of their friendship. In how this film treats the subject matter is like that of silent lucidity.
In what they have become, Tom (David Cooley) stayed in Boston only to grow up to be an alcoholic troublemaker and Sean (Brian Scannell) relocated to Los Angeles with Tom’s sister Emily to eventually work the beat as a cop with an axe to grind. Anyone who tries to mess with him often got the end of the stick. But when Emily is found dead and news reaches home, Tom goes to LA to confront Sean. The web of deceit he finds himself in is more than he can handle.
Cooley and Scannel deliver strong performances. The plot only gets stranger at every succeeding moment, and the draw this film creates gets viewers invested into wanting to understand the psyche of each of these leading men. Hill crafted a nicely enticing film that wraps two time periods together to reveal the darkest nature of what friends are willing to do for each other. The flashbacks are far more interesting than the now.
To reveal anymore information will only spoil the causality of how these two have to contend with each other. When this film hits more festivals, viewers can discover for themselves in what human nature means according to this filmmaker. The hills have eyes and what he sees may not be necessarily good.
In what they have become, Tom (David Cooley) stayed in Boston only to grow up to be an alcoholic troublemaker and Sean (Brian Scannell) relocated to Los Angeles with Tom’s sister Emily to eventually work the beat as a cop with an axe to grind. Anyone who tries to mess with him often got the end of the stick. But when Emily is found dead and news reaches home, Tom goes to LA to confront Sean. The web of deceit he finds himself in is more than he can handle.
Cooley and Scannel deliver strong performances. The plot only gets stranger at every succeeding moment, and the draw this film creates gets viewers invested into wanting to understand the psyche of each of these leading men. Hill crafted a nicely enticing film that wraps two time periods together to reveal the darkest nature of what friends are willing to do for each other. The flashbacks are far more interesting than the now.
To reveal anymore information will only spoil the causality of how these two have to contend with each other. When this film hits more festivals, viewers can discover for themselves in what human nature means according to this filmmaker. The hills have eyes and what he sees may not be necessarily good.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Symbolism by Caracol in Music
Jul 10, 2019
Caracol is a bilingual singer-songwriter based in Montreal, Canada. Not too long ago, she released a music video for her “Flooded Field” single featuring Illa J (brother of the late Jay Dilla).
“I could be your island. Headlights in the distance reaching out in silence if you won’t tell me how the water came. How can I really get you out of it? Your heart is a flooded field. Tell me what it means. Don’t know how to get to you.” – lyrics
‘Flooded Field’ tells an interesting tale of a supportive woman who wants to comfort her significant other.
Apparently, he has built a wall, so she doesn’t know how to get to him. But she has patience, therefore, she urges him to open up so she can nurture him with love.
‘Flooded Field’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and groovy instrumentation flavored with an electro-reggae aroma.
‘Flooded Field’ is a featured track on Caracol’s latest album, entitled, “Symbolism”.
The 11-track project sums up her past musical experiences and her beginnings as a percussionist and back-up singer in reggae bands.
Also, it highlights her work as a sound engineer in film music and her presence in the songwriting community and pop music writing camps.
Her “Symbolism” adventure began when she met producer Joey Waronker during a creative trip to Los Angeles.
After falling in love with her demos, he decided to work with her, and during the recording process, Caracol reached new heights.
Caracol was recently nominated at the Canadian Indie Awards in the Electronic Artist of the Year category.
Her music influences include Santigold, Lykke Li, Grimes, Beach House, Wild Belle, and Portishead.
“I could be your island. Headlights in the distance reaching out in silence if you won’t tell me how the water came. How can I really get you out of it? Your heart is a flooded field. Tell me what it means. Don’t know how to get to you.” – lyrics
‘Flooded Field’ tells an interesting tale of a supportive woman who wants to comfort her significant other.
Apparently, he has built a wall, so she doesn’t know how to get to him. But she has patience, therefore, she urges him to open up so she can nurture him with love.
‘Flooded Field’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and groovy instrumentation flavored with an electro-reggae aroma.
‘Flooded Field’ is a featured track on Caracol’s latest album, entitled, “Symbolism”.
The 11-track project sums up her past musical experiences and her beginnings as a percussionist and back-up singer in reggae bands.
Also, it highlights her work as a sound engineer in film music and her presence in the songwriting community and pop music writing camps.
Her “Symbolism” adventure began when she met producer Joey Waronker during a creative trip to Los Angeles.
After falling in love with her demos, he decided to work with her, and during the recording process, Caracol reached new heights.
Caracol was recently nominated at the Canadian Indie Awards in the Electronic Artist of the Year category.
Her music influences include Santigold, Lykke Li, Grimes, Beach House, Wild Belle, and Portishead.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2165 KP) rated The Silent Second in Books
Jan 16, 2020
Good, but Not the Tone I Was Expecting
Chuck Restic has spent twenty years in HR, and he’s good at his job – making sure employees get along so they don’t sue each other or, more importantly, the company. That’s how he first meets Ed, who has had a complaint filed against him. Ed seems like a nice guy, and their meeting goes well, but then Ed disappears a couple of days later. A plea from Ed’s family to figure out what happened to him intrigues Chuck. He’s recently separated from his wife, and he wants to do something to fill his time away from work, so he uses his boredom as an excuse to start poking around. The trail quickly leads to real estate around Los Angeles, but how could that have led to Ed’s disappearance?
I’d seen the author speak at a library event a while ago, and I thought this book sounded like fun. While I certainly enjoyed it, I found the book to be darker in tone than I was expecting. There were a few laughs when Chuck was in HR mode, but for the most part, this felt more like a hard-boiled book. But that’s my only complaint with the book. I really did like Chuck – in fact, I could identify with him a bit too much. (Maybe that was part of my problem.) The rest of the cast are just as strong and become well-rounded people as we learn most about them. The plot was great with plenty of twists and an ending I didn’t see coming. The book was light on foul language and didn’t get too graphic with the violence or sex, which I most definitely appreciated. This is a solid debut, but pick it up when you are in the mood for something on the darker side.
I’d seen the author speak at a library event a while ago, and I thought this book sounded like fun. While I certainly enjoyed it, I found the book to be darker in tone than I was expecting. There were a few laughs when Chuck was in HR mode, but for the most part, this felt more like a hard-boiled book. But that’s my only complaint with the book. I really did like Chuck – in fact, I could identify with him a bit too much. (Maybe that was part of my problem.) The rest of the cast are just as strong and become well-rounded people as we learn most about them. The plot was great with plenty of twists and an ending I didn’t see coming. The book was light on foul language and didn’t get too graphic with the violence or sex, which I most definitely appreciated. This is a solid debut, but pick it up when you are in the mood for something on the darker side.
Trumbo: A Biography of the Oscar-Winning Screenwriter Who Broke the Hollywood Blacklist - Now a Major Motion Picture
7.5
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NOMINATED FOR OSCAR, BAFTA AND GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS (BRYAN CRANSTON, BEST ACTOR) Dalton Trumbo was...