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TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Heart Restoration (RenoVations #1) in Books
Feb 23, 2021
Y'all this story was epic!
It combined historical fiction, a mystery, suspense + a dash of oh so sweet romance!! I think this is one of my favorite books to read this year :) I think I read the whole book in one sitting.
I loved Lisa. Her character is well developed, she is strong and shows grace, and courage when faced with interesting circumstances. Plus, I loved the vivid descriptions that Regina Rudd Merrick used to describe Lisa and Nick and their plans for the renovation; It was like I was in the house and could envision it right along with them!
The setting in the old house, combined with the mystery left me so excited to (hopefully) read Del's story next! I highly recommend this story for the great characters, interesting twists I did not see coming and for making the smiles along the way. 5 out of 5 stars.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
It combined historical fiction, a mystery, suspense + a dash of oh so sweet romance!! I think this is one of my favorite books to read this year :) I think I read the whole book in one sitting.
I loved Lisa. Her character is well developed, she is strong and shows grace, and courage when faced with interesting circumstances. Plus, I loved the vivid descriptions that Regina Rudd Merrick used to describe Lisa and Nick and their plans for the renovation; It was like I was in the house and could envision it right along with them!
The setting in the old house, combined with the mystery left me so excited to (hopefully) read Del's story next! I highly recommend this story for the great characters, interesting twists I did not see coming and for making the smiles along the way. 5 out of 5 stars.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Merissa (11805 KP) rated Resurrection of an Empire (The Magic Within #2) in Books
Jun 7, 2023
Resurrection of an Empire starts pretty much where Bound to Survive finished. We meet up with Henry, Clarence, Christopher and Elle as they try to reawaken and revitalise the Keep, making it a home for people again. It actually starts with a prologue that will immediately have your heart jumping, but you will have to carry on reading to find out what is happening!
With thrills, spills, action, adventure, evil, love, dying, and hope, there is something in here for all fantasy lovers. Hang on for a thrilling ride as Ms Gibbs puts you through your paces in a fast but smooth adventure fantasy read.
This is part of a series, so I would definitely recommend reading Bound to Survive first. Also, you can get Beginnings, a free prequel novella from her website, or by clicking http://sharongibbsauthor.com/book/beg...
* 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!
Apr 29, 2016
With thrills, spills, action, adventure, evil, love, dying, and hope, there is something in here for all fantasy lovers. Hang on for a thrilling ride as Ms Gibbs puts you through your paces in a fast but smooth adventure fantasy read.
This is part of a series, so I would definitely recommend reading Bound to Survive first. Also, you can get Beginnings, a free prequel novella from her website, or by clicking http://sharongibbsauthor.com/book/beg...
* 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!
Apr 29, 2016
Erika Kehlet (21 KP) rated Cracked to Death (A Webb's Glass Shop Mystery, #3) in Books
Feb 21, 2018
This is the third book in the Webbs Glass Shop mystery series. If you havent read the previous books in the series, dont worry. Youll be able to catch on to whos who and whats happening easily enough that you can jump right in at this point without feeling lost.
I love the glass-making theme of this cozy series. The process is fascinating, and you can almost see the work being done from the vivid descriptions in the book. Its not all about the glass, though, and luckily Savannah has a great group of friends and colleagues to help her out when things get ugly. With another death in town, she needs them to help her track down a killer. This was a great addition to a fun series.
<i>NOTE: I was provided with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.</i>
I love the glass-making theme of this cozy series. The process is fascinating, and you can almost see the work being done from the vivid descriptions in the book. Its not all about the glass, though, and luckily Savannah has a great group of friends and colleagues to help her out when things get ugly. With another death in town, she needs them to help her track down a killer. This was a great addition to a fun series.
<i>NOTE: I was provided with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.</i>
Kristina (502 KP) rated Catwoman: Soulstealer - DC Icons Book 3 in Books
Dec 7, 2020
Sarah J Maas knows how to create a badass! Selina is definitely a strong, capable, gritty, independent woman with no need for a man (or Batwing). I thoroughly enjoyed Catwoman through Maas' eyes - I probably should have read the other DC books (and I still might), but I couldn't wait to delve into SJM's mind once again. Reading about the "villain", making her into a relatable person with a sympathetic history, was especially interesting. I have never personally read any hero comics and, though I've watched several Batman movies, I certainly wouldn't call myself a fanatic - but this was a new experience in which I have no regrets! The story had action (lots of girl power, good versus evil, butt-whipping action), it had a hint of romance (which kept my romantic heart aflutter) and definitely had some feels to go along with it. Glad I chose something so different from my normal read!
Cori June (3033 KP) rated The War of the Flowers in Books
Mar 14, 2021
Descriptions (3 more)
world building
index of people places and things
800+ pages
long winded (2 more)
whiney dense lead
800+pages
A stand alone book. As a fan of Tad Williams I have put this book off from reading (it had been on my TBR list for over a decade) because of a previous stand alone book, I was afraid I won't like this one. Luckily, because of a TBR reading challenge I finally picked it up, and was pleasantly surprised at the intricate worlds that have been built.
The book is set up in five parts and has a couple of POVs most being that of Theo (the main character) who goes from California to the world of Faerie. A very different Faerie then expected. A very unique take on it.
Theo is thrown into a world he doesn't understand and has an extremely difficult time with well... don't want to give any spoilers. Although I will say the author isn't afraid to put Theo through hell, from the get.
While I did figure out quite a lot of the book along the way I was more pleased then annoyed when I was right in my assumptions.
The descriptions are very realistic and graphic in places (the author's note at the beginning is warranted) making this book quite long as are most of his books. A good long read that may not be for everyone.
The book is set up in five parts and has a couple of POVs most being that of Theo (the main character) who goes from California to the world of Faerie. A very different Faerie then expected. A very unique take on it.
Theo is thrown into a world he doesn't understand and has an extremely difficult time with well... don't want to give any spoilers. Although I will say the author isn't afraid to put Theo through hell, from the get.
While I did figure out quite a lot of the book along the way I was more pleased then annoyed when I was right in my assumptions.
The descriptions are very realistic and graphic in places (the author's note at the beginning is warranted) making this book quite long as are most of his books. A good long read that may not be for everyone.
Gareth von Kallenbach (971 KP) rated Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2 (2011) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
My anticipation for the second part of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, much like my anticipation of Part 1, was accompanied by great reluctance to witness the culmination of 10 years of storytelling.
Opening exactly where Part 1 left off, we find Harry, Hermione and Ron continuing on their quest to locate the remaining Horcruxes, objects in which Harry’s nemesis, Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) has implanted a part of his soul. Destruction of these Horcruxes help weaken Voldemort. Polyjuice, goblins and a dragon ride provide some humor and thrills and eventually leads to the trios’ return to Hogwarts, where Alan Rickman’s Severus Snape is now the hated headmaster. Voldemort has attained the powerful Elder Wand and has turned his evil sights on the school in hopes of drawing Harry out. Along with his questionably loyal Deatheaters, they surround Hogwarts and prepare to attack.
At times the storytelling is a bit slow, at times too abrupt. While the special Harry Potter 3D glasses were amusing, I didn’t notice any spectacular effects that would warrant the extra charge to watch this movie in 3D. As is the case for converted 3D movies, the effects are more of a distracting afterthought than a real enhancement. For those not familiar with the books, the storylines may be a bit convoluted but your patience will be rewarded. Daniel Radcliffe’s matured Harry Potter is grim and resolute, his best friends Hermione and Ron (Emma Watson and Rupert Grinch) are aptly desperate but determined. Taking a stand with them, wile making their cinematic curtain call, are many of their Hogwarts professors, their classmates in Dumbldore’s Army and their mentors in the Order of the Phoenix. There are more heartwrenching moments than heartwarming parts as Harry learns more about the events surrounding his existence and what he must do to defeat Voldemort.
Few books, and far fewer movie adaptations, have captured the hearts of such a loyal and enthusiastic fanbase. The valiant attempts by directors Chris Columbus, Alfonso Cuaron, Mike Newell and, lastly, David Yates, to recreate the vast, enchanting wizarding world imagined by J.K. Rowling, have deservedly garnered the franchise a loyal and enthusiastic fanbase. Yet, as lush and vivid as the movies have been, they only touched on some of the best parts of the books. Needless to say, I wasn’t expecting perfection. But what I saw in Part 2 was pretty darn close. While movie adaptations of beloved stories will always leave serious fans wanting more, Deathly Hallows Part 2 is a fitting finale to this epic tale.
Opening exactly where Part 1 left off, we find Harry, Hermione and Ron continuing on their quest to locate the remaining Horcruxes, objects in which Harry’s nemesis, Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) has implanted a part of his soul. Destruction of these Horcruxes help weaken Voldemort. Polyjuice, goblins and a dragon ride provide some humor and thrills and eventually leads to the trios’ return to Hogwarts, where Alan Rickman’s Severus Snape is now the hated headmaster. Voldemort has attained the powerful Elder Wand and has turned his evil sights on the school in hopes of drawing Harry out. Along with his questionably loyal Deatheaters, they surround Hogwarts and prepare to attack.
At times the storytelling is a bit slow, at times too abrupt. While the special Harry Potter 3D glasses were amusing, I didn’t notice any spectacular effects that would warrant the extra charge to watch this movie in 3D. As is the case for converted 3D movies, the effects are more of a distracting afterthought than a real enhancement. For those not familiar with the books, the storylines may be a bit convoluted but your patience will be rewarded. Daniel Radcliffe’s matured Harry Potter is grim and resolute, his best friends Hermione and Ron (Emma Watson and Rupert Grinch) are aptly desperate but determined. Taking a stand with them, wile making their cinematic curtain call, are many of their Hogwarts professors, their classmates in Dumbldore’s Army and their mentors in the Order of the Phoenix. There are more heartwrenching moments than heartwarming parts as Harry learns more about the events surrounding his existence and what he must do to defeat Voldemort.
Few books, and far fewer movie adaptations, have captured the hearts of such a loyal and enthusiastic fanbase. The valiant attempts by directors Chris Columbus, Alfonso Cuaron, Mike Newell and, lastly, David Yates, to recreate the vast, enchanting wizarding world imagined by J.K. Rowling, have deservedly garnered the franchise a loyal and enthusiastic fanbase. Yet, as lush and vivid as the movies have been, they only touched on some of the best parts of the books. Needless to say, I wasn’t expecting perfection. But what I saw in Part 2 was pretty darn close. While movie adaptations of beloved stories will always leave serious fans wanting more, Deathly Hallows Part 2 is a fitting finale to this epic tale.
Merissa (11805 KP) rated Summer Heat in Books
Jun 21, 2017
Summer Heat by Jay Northcote
Summer Heat is the perfect summer read, complete with sun, sea, and sex! After getting dumped by his older man, Adam seeks shelter from his BFF Finn. Both of them feel a hint of attraction, but have never acted upon it, fearing to ruin their friendship. When they go on a week's holiday that Adam had booked for him and his ex, things take a different turn to what they expected.
This is an easy-read book that will immediately take you to the shores of Spain. Adam and Finn are understandably nervous about making any changes to their friendship, but neither of them want to continue on as they are. They just need 'something' to give them the boost, the courage, to make them speak - whether that is a person or event.
Very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, the story is told from both Adam and Finn's perspective, giving the reader a well rounded view of both them and their feelings. It is low angst, but still with a hint of tension and uncertainty. I have no hesitation in recommending this.
* 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!
This is an easy-read book that will immediately take you to the shores of Spain. Adam and Finn are understandably nervous about making any changes to their friendship, but neither of them want to continue on as they are. They just need 'something' to give them the boost, the courage, to make them speak - whether that is a person or event.
Very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow, the story is told from both Adam and Finn's perspective, giving the reader a well rounded view of both them and their feelings. It is low angst, but still with a hint of tension and uncertainty. I have no hesitation in recommending this.
* 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!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2103 KP) rated The Dogfather in Books
Oct 14, 2020
Exes, Handbags, and Murder
Mel Langston is surprised when her ex-fiance, Grey Donovan, asks to use her Bow Wow Boutique as a base for an undercover assignment. She reluctantly agrees, hoping they can get along at least until the surveillance is over. Then a murder takes place down the street at the high-end handbag store, and Grey becomes a suspect. Mel jumps in, hoping to clear him before his career with the FBI is ruined. Can she do it?
Fans of the series will be delighted with the latest entry. It has the usual assortment of characters, and I don’t just mean series regulars. The cast run from wacky to realistic, but somehow, they all fit into the world of these books, and they create plenty of laughs along the way. Yes, that includes Betty, Mel’s assistant, who walks the fine line of making us laugh without being annoying. The plot is good, with plenty of twists and suspects to keep us engaged. The ending does seem a bit rushed, but that’s a minor complaint. This appears to be the final book in the series, at least for now, and the authors do a great job of wrapping up ongoing storylines. This series isn’t for everyone, but if you want a light, wacky, and fun mystery, you’ll be glad you gave it a chance.
Fans of the series will be delighted with the latest entry. It has the usual assortment of characters, and I don’t just mean series regulars. The cast run from wacky to realistic, but somehow, they all fit into the world of these books, and they create plenty of laughs along the way. Yes, that includes Betty, Mel’s assistant, who walks the fine line of making us laugh without being annoying. The plot is good, with plenty of twists and suspects to keep us engaged. The ending does seem a bit rushed, but that’s a minor complaint. This appears to be the final book in the series, at least for now, and the authors do a great job of wrapping up ongoing storylines. This series isn’t for everyone, but if you want a light, wacky, and fun mystery, you’ll be glad you gave it a chance.
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post
Mar 9, 2021
Merissa (11805 KP) rated A Lightness in My Soul in Books
Jan 18, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)
A LIGHTNESS IN MY SOUL is a fictional novella based on a true story, one that happened in Germany many years ago.
Just like the British evacuated their children, so did the Germans, although not everyone was put into homes, but camps instead. This is a heartbreaking and harrowing tale, told in the first person, as Arthur goes to a KLV camp. You stay with him as he begins to question just what is going on, then the Americans arrive, and you stay with him in the aftermath of that.
The conditions Arthur has to face are very well-written, managing to give the reader the horror and hopelessness of the situation without making it gruesome or unnecessarily violent.
For anyone with an interest in the history of WWII, especially if you are interested in the German perspective, then this is definitely one for your bookshelves. A one-sitting, engrossing read highly 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!
Jan 18, 2021
Just like the British evacuated their children, so did the Germans, although not everyone was put into homes, but camps instead. This is a heartbreaking and harrowing tale, told in the first person, as Arthur goes to a KLV camp. You stay with him as he begins to question just what is going on, then the Americans arrive, and you stay with him in the aftermath of that.
The conditions Arthur has to face are very well-written, managing to give the reader the horror and hopelessness of the situation without making it gruesome or unnecessarily violent.
For anyone with an interest in the history of WWII, especially if you are interested in the German perspective, then this is definitely one for your bookshelves. A one-sitting, engrossing read highly 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!
Jan 18, 2021