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Debbiereadsbook (1546 KP) rated Crushed Ice (Hockey Ever After #4) in Books
Feb 6, 2024
Russ fell for Liam, but hadn't been able to put a name to the feelings.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 4 in the Hockey Ever After series. I have only read book 1 and 2, and missed book 3. It's not necessary to read those books before this one. Dante and Gabe play a part here (from book 1) but neither Ryan and Nico (book 2) or Max and Grady (book 3) play a part except there is a wedding.
I really liked book 1 and I loved book 2. I can't say I loved this one, but I did, for the most part, enjoy this. It was great to catch up with Gabe and Dante!
Russ is already playing for the Caimans when Liam joins them. There is attraction, right from the start, but Russ is not fully out and Liam is his rookie. I loved how Liam set Russ off kilter. The one-liners from Baller made me chuckle. It gets the point across, that Russ fell for Liam but hadn't been able to put a name to the feelings.
It's on the sweeter side, and fairly low angst. There is an age gap, but not a massive one. It's emotional, though, in places, but I didn't get that sucker punch I got from book 2, Scoring Position. Steamy and smexy in palces, but fade to black in others and I did like that.
So, what didn't I like? There are detailed hockey match descriptions. I know, I KNOW this is a hockey romance, but books 1 and 2 didn't have the long descriptions of the matches like there are here. Or I don't think they did. I said in my review for book one, that I liked that book because there were not huge long descriptions of hockey matches. So, for ME, and I stress the ME, those matches that are here were too much for me. I'm a UK native, and ice hockey is not the massive sport it is on the North American continent.
Still, an enjoyable read, that was on a par with book one, but not book 2, which I gave the full 5 stars.
So, 4 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 4 in the Hockey Ever After series. I have only read book 1 and 2, and missed book 3. It's not necessary to read those books before this one. Dante and Gabe play a part here (from book 1) but neither Ryan and Nico (book 2) or Max and Grady (book 3) play a part except there is a wedding.
I really liked book 1 and I loved book 2. I can't say I loved this one, but I did, for the most part, enjoy this. It was great to catch up with Gabe and Dante!
Russ is already playing for the Caimans when Liam joins them. There is attraction, right from the start, but Russ is not fully out and Liam is his rookie. I loved how Liam set Russ off kilter. The one-liners from Baller made me chuckle. It gets the point across, that Russ fell for Liam but hadn't been able to put a name to the feelings.
It's on the sweeter side, and fairly low angst. There is an age gap, but not a massive one. It's emotional, though, in places, but I didn't get that sucker punch I got from book 2, Scoring Position. Steamy and smexy in palces, but fade to black in others and I did like that.
So, what didn't I like? There are detailed hockey match descriptions. I know, I KNOW this is a hockey romance, but books 1 and 2 didn't have the long descriptions of the matches like there are here. Or I don't think they did. I said in my review for book one, that I liked that book because there were not huge long descriptions of hockey matches. So, for ME, and I stress the ME, those matches that are here were too much for me. I'm a UK native, and ice hockey is not the massive sport it is on the North American continent.
Still, an enjoyable read, that was on a par with book one, but not book 2, which I gave the full 5 stars.
So, 4 very good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Gareth von Kallenbach (980 KP) rated The Conjuring 2 (2016) in Movies
Aug 6, 2019
Horror and Suspense movies always intrigued me, especially the ones based on true events or are historically based. The fact that it happened to someone actually made me more invested in the story and prompted me to think of the ways that I would deal with that situation should it arise. After watching The Conjuring 2, I hope that day never happens.
Conjuring 2 finds us catching up with Ed and Lorraine Warren as they travel to Enfield, England to help a family suffering from a paranormal encounter. After gaining a measure of fame for their experience, the Hodgson family is sought out by the Catholic Church and the Warrens in order to determine if the incidents are real or fabricated. They discover that this case pushes them to the limits of their faith and results in them becoming the targets of this demonic possession.
The film itself is a stronger story, filled with more suspense and depth than the first film and goes far beyond Annabelle, which, at times had me not connect at all with the family and I found myself cheering for the doll. The chemistry between Patrick Wilson (The Conjuring, Insidious series) and Vera Farmiga (The Departed, The Conjuring) and Frances O’Connor drive the story and ensure that audiences become invested within the storyline and circumstances and not just for the “frights.”
Sequels can often be plagued with problems, tropes, and going overboard with certain themes and ideas in order to retain its core audience. This is not the case with The Conjuring 2. The story and approach are fresh. Aspects of the film are not predictable. There are no massive holes within the plot. Time was invested within the writing and filming to ensure a solid story, suspense, and impact on viewers beyond their exit from the theater. The Conjuring series looks as though it is just getting started. Personally, I look forward to the remaining stories of the Warren family even if it means sleeping with the lights on after viewing.
Conjuring 2 finds us catching up with Ed and Lorraine Warren as they travel to Enfield, England to help a family suffering from a paranormal encounter. After gaining a measure of fame for their experience, the Hodgson family is sought out by the Catholic Church and the Warrens in order to determine if the incidents are real or fabricated. They discover that this case pushes them to the limits of their faith and results in them becoming the targets of this demonic possession.
The film itself is a stronger story, filled with more suspense and depth than the first film and goes far beyond Annabelle, which, at times had me not connect at all with the family and I found myself cheering for the doll. The chemistry between Patrick Wilson (The Conjuring, Insidious series) and Vera Farmiga (The Departed, The Conjuring) and Frances O’Connor drive the story and ensure that audiences become invested within the storyline and circumstances and not just for the “frights.”
Sequels can often be plagued with problems, tropes, and going overboard with certain themes and ideas in order to retain its core audience. This is not the case with The Conjuring 2. The story and approach are fresh. Aspects of the film are not predictable. There are no massive holes within the plot. Time was invested within the writing and filming to ensure a solid story, suspense, and impact on viewers beyond their exit from the theater. The Conjuring series looks as though it is just getting started. Personally, I look forward to the remaining stories of the Warren family even if it means sleeping with the lights on after viewing.
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated Symbiont (Parasitology, #2) in Books
Apr 27, 2018
Here’s the rundown: I am in love with this series. I am all over this series. I love Sal, I love the characters (I even kind of love Sherman, a little), the plot is brilliant, it’s exciting, brilliant, fast-paced, and original.
But. Why does there have to be a but! I wish there wasn’t, but there is.
There is literally only one issue with this series that makes it a 4-star instead of a five-star: I call it “Jenny McGrady Syndrome.” See years ago I read this book series about a young detective that always got herself into trouble trying to be Nancy Drew. And in every single book, at least once, this phrase was present: “Jenny felt as though she’d been slugged in the stomach.” Every. Single. Book.
Now if I found a phrase in Parasite and Symbiont that repeated only once, that wouldn’t be a big deal. Even two or three times between the two books, that wouldn’t be a big deal. But the problem I have is that there is a lot of repetition of phrases. I understand what Grant is trying to do here, making the drums an important thing, seeing red, the cold gut wrenching feeling of fear and anticipation at the same time… but I don’t want to read it forty times in five chapters. It’s not necessary. It only slows down the story and frustrates the reader.
Other than that one minor flaw, it is one of the best YA novels I’ve ever listened to. The characters are full of personality and quirks, the plot is unexpected, the bad guy makes me want to punch him in the throat, and I’m dying to find out what happens in the third book. I will absolutely read (listen) to it. I am super excited. I’m dying over here. I just wish that the unnecessary and repeated words and phrases were cut out.
I love the reader for this audiobook, Christine Lakin. She adds a lot of character and emotion, and reads clearly and at a good pace. I like her voice. She’s one of those people who you’re sure that the main character’s voice actually sounds like the narrator. I loved her performance in this as well as The Coldest Girl in Coldtown, and look forward to hearing her again, and am adding her to my list of favorite narrators.
But. Why does there have to be a but! I wish there wasn’t, but there is.
There is literally only one issue with this series that makes it a 4-star instead of a five-star: I call it “Jenny McGrady Syndrome.” See years ago I read this book series about a young detective that always got herself into trouble trying to be Nancy Drew. And in every single book, at least once, this phrase was present: “Jenny felt as though she’d been slugged in the stomach.” Every. Single. Book.
Now if I found a phrase in Parasite and Symbiont that repeated only once, that wouldn’t be a big deal. Even two or three times between the two books, that wouldn’t be a big deal. But the problem I have is that there is a lot of repetition of phrases. I understand what Grant is trying to do here, making the drums an important thing, seeing red, the cold gut wrenching feeling of fear and anticipation at the same time… but I don’t want to read it forty times in five chapters. It’s not necessary. It only slows down the story and frustrates the reader.
Other than that one minor flaw, it is one of the best YA novels I’ve ever listened to. The characters are full of personality and quirks, the plot is unexpected, the bad guy makes me want to punch him in the throat, and I’m dying to find out what happens in the third book. I will absolutely read (listen) to it. I am super excited. I’m dying over here. I just wish that the unnecessary and repeated words and phrases were cut out.
I love the reader for this audiobook, Christine Lakin. She adds a lot of character and emotion, and reads clearly and at a good pace. I like her voice. She’s one of those people who you’re sure that the main character’s voice actually sounds like the narrator. I loved her performance in this as well as The Coldest Girl in Coldtown, and look forward to hearing her again, and am adding her to my list of favorite narrators.
Christina Haynes (148 KP) rated Being Alpha in Books
Sep 18, 2018
Being Alpha
Tessa and Dastien are now finally married and are on their well overdue honeymoon. Dastien wants to relax and enjoy himself with Tessa but like always she's on edge and a good thing too, because something is lurking around the corner and like always it's after her...
This book features the aftermath of what Luciana was trying to do, the whole summoning of demons. This time the demon she was trying to bring to our world is only a few moments away. The gang are back together in order to bring this demon down, except Meredith and Donovan as they are having their own problems. We get introduced to a new character along the way. This character has a pretty cool ability.
Like each book before this one we experience upset, drama and danger. All of which come together to create a good story.
I feel that this book didn't really need to happen if I'm honest, because that's what I want my reviews to be... honest. The reason I felt this is because we already defeated Luciana, we didn't then need to defeat what she did again. I like that this book was in this series and I do have mixed feelings about this and I don't know if it's because for the last seven weeks I've been reading the same series and I'm getting bored of it. Or because there is something after seven books that I don't really like about Tessa but I loved more with the other characters. This book was good, but it didn't need to happen. The buildup for the next book could of happened in the sixth and this one could of been the eighth book if that makes sense. I find that really this book should of been half of what it was, so maybe it could of just happened as a shorter story or tied in with the last book and made it long?
Anyway I am looking forward to the next book where we get to see more of Chris and his soul mate!!!
☕☕☕ - NOT A BAD BOOK
Love,
Christina xx
This book features the aftermath of what Luciana was trying to do, the whole summoning of demons. This time the demon she was trying to bring to our world is only a few moments away. The gang are back together in order to bring this demon down, except Meredith and Donovan as they are having their own problems. We get introduced to a new character along the way. This character has a pretty cool ability.
Like each book before this one we experience upset, drama and danger. All of which come together to create a good story.
I feel that this book didn't really need to happen if I'm honest, because that's what I want my reviews to be... honest. The reason I felt this is because we already defeated Luciana, we didn't then need to defeat what she did again. I like that this book was in this series and I do have mixed feelings about this and I don't know if it's because for the last seven weeks I've been reading the same series and I'm getting bored of it. Or because there is something after seven books that I don't really like about Tessa but I loved more with the other characters. This book was good, but it didn't need to happen. The buildup for the next book could of happened in the sixth and this one could of been the eighth book if that makes sense. I find that really this book should of been half of what it was, so maybe it could of just happened as a shorter story or tied in with the last book and made it long?
Anyway I am looking forward to the next book where we get to see more of Chris and his soul mate!!!
☕☕☕ - NOT A BAD BOOK
Love,
Christina xx
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated The White Feather Murders (Herringford and Watts Mysteries, #3) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
I can no longer remember my life before Herringford & Watts! Rachel McMillan continues to deliver stories that are both engaging and exciting. Set at the beginning of The Great War, residents of Toronto see their city turned upside down and inside out in this, the third full length novel of the series.
Cracker Jacks! I adore this series. Full of unique characters, creative words, a beautiful setting, and an original storyline. Herringford & Watts will drag you off of your feet and into their world of mystery, murder, and adventure.
Jasper Forth takes on a much more prominent role in The White Feather Murders and I am so SO glad! Move over Ray there is a new dream boat in town. I have always loved Jasper, but this book just sealed the deal for me. As Jem and Merinda whisk us away on yet another daring adventure, things have definitely changed. Both in their beloved city and in the dynamics of their partnership. It was so good to see all four of our characters work through things together and individually.
I can (and will given the opportunity) go on for an extended length of time about all of the reasons I find this book and series utterly delightful. However, you don't have time for such things, for you must purchase a book (the novellas are FREE) and begin reading IMMEDIATELY! Your heart and your brain will thank you for it. The books themselves are gorgeous! Beautiful silhouettes depicting parts of the story on the cover. Footnotes for the reader. Quotes from books that McMillan has created herself. But above all, LADY DETECTIVES in Toronto, 1914. Until our next adventure from Rachel McMillan comes out, enjoy discovering the five other books/novellas in the series! Jem and Merinda are sure to become some of your closest friends, as they have become to me.
I received a complimentary copy of The White Feather Murders from the publishers (Harvest House) through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Cracker Jacks! I adore this series. Full of unique characters, creative words, a beautiful setting, and an original storyline. Herringford & Watts will drag you off of your feet and into their world of mystery, murder, and adventure.
Jasper Forth takes on a much more prominent role in The White Feather Murders and I am so SO glad! Move over Ray there is a new dream boat in town. I have always loved Jasper, but this book just sealed the deal for me. As Jem and Merinda whisk us away on yet another daring adventure, things have definitely changed. Both in their beloved city and in the dynamics of their partnership. It was so good to see all four of our characters work through things together and individually.
I can (and will given the opportunity) go on for an extended length of time about all of the reasons I find this book and series utterly delightful. However, you don't have time for such things, for you must purchase a book (the novellas are FREE) and begin reading IMMEDIATELY! Your heart and your brain will thank you for it. The books themselves are gorgeous! Beautiful silhouettes depicting parts of the story on the cover. Footnotes for the reader. Quotes from books that McMillan has created herself. But above all, LADY DETECTIVES in Toronto, 1914. Until our next adventure from Rachel McMillan comes out, enjoy discovering the five other books/novellas in the series! Jem and Merinda are sure to become some of your closest friends, as they have become to me.
I received a complimentary copy of The White Feather Murders from the publishers (Harvest House) through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Cynthia Armistead (17 KP) rated A Free Man of Color (Benjamin January, #1) in Books
Mar 1, 2018
Historical fiction isn't my favorite genre, but I'm much more willing to read it when it's mixed with mystery. I've read some of Hambly's work before and know her to be a fine writer, and I'd read good reviews of this series by people I respect, so I decided to give it a whirl.
I suppose all the descriptions of people's clothing would have mattered much more to someone who cared about such things, but I do realize that they were important in the context of the story. Personally, I was relieved when the main character went on a journey! I would have been happier had his medical skills been utilized more frequently than they were, but I suppose his experiences were fairly true to life for a "colored" man of his time.
I did learn quite a lot—things that I intend to verify in non-fiction sources shortly. The information about the black code, for instance, and the explanation of the distinction between "black" and "colored" people seemed too precise to be fabricated.
I knew, too, that Louisiana is the only U.S. state whose laws are based on French rather than English common law, which seemed silly to me. Why wouldn't they go with the standard everyone else used? After reading this novel, I'm starting to realize that there may have been rights given to citizens under French law that were lost under English law.
I'm not sure as to whether or not I'll go forward in the series, as I'm not sure that I can handle the unhappiness I can see foreshadowed even in some of the titles. However, I will say that this volume is well-written and well-plotted. I certainly didn't guess who the killer was or why the murder was committed before the big reveal, and that was a pleasant change!
I suppose all the descriptions of people's clothing would have mattered much more to someone who cared about such things, but I do realize that they were important in the context of the story. Personally, I was relieved when the main character went on a journey! I would have been happier had his medical skills been utilized more frequently than they were, but I suppose his experiences were fairly true to life for a "colored" man of his time.
I did learn quite a lot—things that I intend to verify in non-fiction sources shortly. The information about the black code, for instance, and the explanation of the distinction between "black" and "colored" people seemed too precise to be fabricated.
I knew, too, that Louisiana is the only U.S. state whose laws are based on French rather than English common law, which seemed silly to me. Why wouldn't they go with the standard everyone else used? After reading this novel, I'm starting to realize that there may have been rights given to citizens under French law that were lost under English law.
I'm not sure as to whether or not I'll go forward in the series, as I'm not sure that I can handle the unhappiness I can see foreshadowed even in some of the titles. However, I will say that this volume is well-written and well-plotted. I certainly didn't guess who the killer was or why the murder was committed before the big reveal, and that was a pleasant change!
David McK (3623 KP) rated Assassin's Creed: Renaissance in Books
Jan 28, 2019
The Assassin's Creed video-games, for anyone who has been living in a cave for the last (roughly) decade or so, are Ubisoft's free-roaming murder-em-up games, detailing the ongoing secretive war between the order of the Assassins, and that of the Templars.
To date, I've played pretty much all of those games (or, atl least, those released for the PS3 and PS4), with the exception of Assassin's Creed: Unity. I'm also a heacvy reader, and have also seen to so-so Assassin's Creed movie (starring Michael Fassbender) that made the - in my eyes, wise, - decision to introduce a new character and historical period.
As such, I think it's fair to say I know enough about the series itself.
Of that series, the most enjoyable game (IMO) have been those set in the Renaissance period; those starring Ezio Auditore - the protaganist of this novel. Unfortunatley, however, this is a virtual retreading of the plot of the game, complete with passages where Ezio learns how to blend in (C'mon! It makes sense in the game, but not exactly an exciting narrative) or has to race hios accomplices from points A to point B (again, gives the player something to do in the game, but not exaclt exciting to read about).
It also doesn't help that this liberally mixes modern-day English and expressions with Italian phrases throughout (that require constant look-up to the glossary), nor that the author seemingly manages to make an entertaining game and compelling central character(s) into a bit of a chore to read through. On the plus side, it does away with all the modern-day Desmond sections from the game ...
Overall, however, I'm not impressed (sadly).
To date, I've played pretty much all of those games (or, atl least, those released for the PS3 and PS4), with the exception of Assassin's Creed: Unity. I'm also a heacvy reader, and have also seen to so-so Assassin's Creed movie (starring Michael Fassbender) that made the - in my eyes, wise, - decision to introduce a new character and historical period.
As such, I think it's fair to say I know enough about the series itself.
Of that series, the most enjoyable game (IMO) have been those set in the Renaissance period; those starring Ezio Auditore - the protaganist of this novel. Unfortunatley, however, this is a virtual retreading of the plot of the game, complete with passages where Ezio learns how to blend in (C'mon! It makes sense in the game, but not exactly an exciting narrative) or has to race hios accomplices from points A to point B (again, gives the player something to do in the game, but not exaclt exciting to read about).
It also doesn't help that this liberally mixes modern-day English and expressions with Italian phrases throughout (that require constant look-up to the glossary), nor that the author seemingly manages to make an entertaining game and compelling central character(s) into a bit of a chore to read through. On the plus side, it does away with all the modern-day Desmond sections from the game ...
Overall, however, I'm not impressed (sadly).
Rachel King (13 KP) rated Frostbite in Books
Feb 11, 2019
I enjoyed this book nearly as much as the first one in the series, but I'm getting really frustrated with the lack of progress in Dimitri and Rose's forbidden romance. Instead, it seems to have taken a backseat to other plotlines, such as the turmoil between Rose and her mother and the political climate that Lissa is moving into. I find Rose's mother, Janine, intriguing in that she seems to be what Rose could become if Rose chooses duty over love. I sure wish that Janine would open up more since there seems to be a lot of great plot material there that was not exploited very much - Rose's black eye being a perfect example. The politics that Lissa is dealing with appear to be moving in the direction that I guessed might happen when I read the first book, which is an equalizing between the Moroi and Dhampir classes of their society, especially when it comes to dealing with the Strigoi.
Despite how Rose views Adrian, I actually rather like him. There is always something attractive about the flirty-jokester that entices women - afterall I don't know a woman who doesn't like to laugh. It's obvious that he really likes Rose and I find myself feeling sorry for him since Rose is definitely taken, even if not in the literal sense yet. Mason really ends up in the worst position, though, even if I don't include what happens to him in the end. Rose all but lies to him while he falls for her hard, all the while being the perfect gentlemen. In a way, Mason and Adrian are opposite in styles, and yet Rose is blind to both - not that I blame her, as she likes to say, "Dimitri is a badass." Why is it that female protagonists always seem to have hords of guys going after them? (Think - Twilight saga, Rachel Morgan series, Mercy Thompson series, House of Night series, etc.)
I wish that Rose's nazar could be explained a bit more, as there seems to be more to it than anyone is discussing. Adrian knows things that he is not spilling, and Janine sure is tight-lipped about most of her life, excluding what she does in the line of duty.
Despite how Rose views Adrian, I actually rather like him. There is always something attractive about the flirty-jokester that entices women - afterall I don't know a woman who doesn't like to laugh. It's obvious that he really likes Rose and I find myself feeling sorry for him since Rose is definitely taken, even if not in the literal sense yet. Mason really ends up in the worst position, though, even if I don't include what happens to him in the end. Rose all but lies to him while he falls for her hard, all the while being the perfect gentlemen. In a way, Mason and Adrian are opposite in styles, and yet Rose is blind to both - not that I blame her, as she likes to say, "Dimitri is a badass." Why is it that female protagonists always seem to have hords of guys going after them? (Think - Twilight saga, Rachel Morgan series, Mercy Thompson series, House of Night series, etc.)
I wish that Rose's nazar could be explained a bit more, as there seems to be more to it than anyone is discussing. Adrian knows things that he is not spilling, and Janine sure is tight-lipped about most of her life, excluding what she does in the line of duty.
BookInspector (124 KP) rated Madam Tulip and the Knave of Hearts (Madam Tulip, #2) in Books
Sep 24, 2020
For more reviews please visit https://bbookinspector.wordpress.com
This book is a second part in Madam Tulip series, and normally, the first part is the one to wow readers to come back for more, but in this case, the second part was way better for me than the first one.
The first part was more of an introduction to Madam Tulip and what she is capable of, in this part things get more serious. Another difference was that, the first part was more like cosy mysteries; the second one loses its coziness and is more action filled, and more intense. Once again, Ahern chose his characters very skillfully. We have some which are incredibly eccentric and real personalities, and others, who are down to earth and very realistic. I honestly do not know how Ahern done his research for his books, but the details about royalty, elegance, old historical houses were a true pleasure to read about. Moreover, the details about historical house and laws of royal inheritance were really accurate and incredibly believable, so, well done to the author.
The narrative was once again told from Derry’s perspective, and in this book I was missing multiple perspectives, as I believe, it helps to understand other characters way better. I really enjoyed that Ahern played with this narrative more, incorporating different approaches in Derry’s life (working for her mom). In this novel there was less of Madam Tulip herself, and more of Derry and her bad luck to end up in dangerous situations. Another well done to the author for increasing the level of action in this novel, I really enjoyed unexpected turns and unusual places chosen for it. One thing what left me debating with myself was the “bad guy” in this book, he was very well picked, but at the same time very obvious and predictable. Even though this book is a second part in the series, it can easily be a standalone mystery, because Ahern explained everything a “new reader” needs to know.
The writing style of this book changed as well. It is more skillful and there are more difficult terms used in this novel, but it did not make it difficult to read, it just felt richer. The chapters are decent length, and once again, divided into smaller parts. I was little bit disappointed with the ending of this book, author used the same technique as in first book and it does not leave me satisfied. I WANT JUSTICE!!! :) So, to conclude, I was really amused with this book and I do recommend to give it a go. It left me very pleasantly surprised with more action, aristocratic and incredibly complex and entertaining characters, the interesting secrets, findings, and incredibly annoying and horrible Derry’s mom (can’t stand that woman now).
Was given this book by author for honest review.
This book is a second part in Madam Tulip series, and normally, the first part is the one to wow readers to come back for more, but in this case, the second part was way better for me than the first one.
The first part was more of an introduction to Madam Tulip and what she is capable of, in this part things get more serious. Another difference was that, the first part was more like cosy mysteries; the second one loses its coziness and is more action filled, and more intense. Once again, Ahern chose his characters very skillfully. We have some which are incredibly eccentric and real personalities, and others, who are down to earth and very realistic. I honestly do not know how Ahern done his research for his books, but the details about royalty, elegance, old historical houses were a true pleasure to read about. Moreover, the details about historical house and laws of royal inheritance were really accurate and incredibly believable, so, well done to the author.
The narrative was once again told from Derry’s perspective, and in this book I was missing multiple perspectives, as I believe, it helps to understand other characters way better. I really enjoyed that Ahern played with this narrative more, incorporating different approaches in Derry’s life (working for her mom). In this novel there was less of Madam Tulip herself, and more of Derry and her bad luck to end up in dangerous situations. Another well done to the author for increasing the level of action in this novel, I really enjoyed unexpected turns and unusual places chosen for it. One thing what left me debating with myself was the “bad guy” in this book, he was very well picked, but at the same time very obvious and predictable. Even though this book is a second part in the series, it can easily be a standalone mystery, because Ahern explained everything a “new reader” needs to know.
The writing style of this book changed as well. It is more skillful and there are more difficult terms used in this novel, but it did not make it difficult to read, it just felt richer. The chapters are decent length, and once again, divided into smaller parts. I was little bit disappointed with the ending of this book, author used the same technique as in first book and it does not leave me satisfied. I WANT JUSTICE!!! :) So, to conclude, I was really amused with this book and I do recommend to give it a go. It left me very pleasantly surprised with more action, aristocratic and incredibly complex and entertaining characters, the interesting secrets, findings, and incredibly annoying and horrible Derry’s mom (can’t stand that woman now).
Was given this book by author for honest review.
tonidavis (353 KP) rated Buffy the Vampire Slayer - Season 5 in TV
Jul 10, 2017
The Body (2 more)
Anya Speech
The Gift
The lets kick you in the feels season
Whilst I hate the introduction of Dawn I really enjoyed this series there where two absolute sound out episode first being:
The Body- This is without a doubt one of the best ever episode ive seen dealing with greif and death the episode is heart breaking from start to finish Anya's speech is the most powerful moment for me.
"I don't understand how this all happens. How we go through this. I mean, I knew her, and then she's- There's just a body, and I don't understand why she just can't get back in it and not be dead anymore. It's stupid. It's mortal and stupid. And-and Xander's crying and not talking, and-and I was having fruit punch, and I thought, well, Joyce will never have any more fruit punch ever, and she'll never have eggs, or yawn or brush her hair, not ever, and no one will explain to me why."
However ever character had a part that was monumental in explain death I also liked Tara explanation of its always sudden even if expected. Xander's need for violent outburst WIllow's need for changing clothes. This is one of the most memorable episode of Buffy.
The second stand out episode is The Gift:
"Dawn, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will *always* love you. But this is the work that I have to do. Tell Giles... tell Giles I figured it out. And, and I'm okay. And give my love to my friends. You have to take care of them now. You have to take care of each other. You have to be strong. Dawn, the hardest thing in this world... is to live in it. Be brave. Live. For me."
The thing that got to me most this episode was Spike face in the last scene
The Body- This is without a doubt one of the best ever episode ive seen dealing with greif and death the episode is heart breaking from start to finish Anya's speech is the most powerful moment for me.
"I don't understand how this all happens. How we go through this. I mean, I knew her, and then she's- There's just a body, and I don't understand why she just can't get back in it and not be dead anymore. It's stupid. It's mortal and stupid. And-and Xander's crying and not talking, and-and I was having fruit punch, and I thought, well, Joyce will never have any more fruit punch ever, and she'll never have eggs, or yawn or brush her hair, not ever, and no one will explain to me why."
However ever character had a part that was monumental in explain death I also liked Tara explanation of its always sudden even if expected. Xander's need for violent outburst WIllow's need for changing clothes. This is one of the most memorable episode of Buffy.
The second stand out episode is The Gift:
"Dawn, listen to me. Listen. I love you. I will *always* love you. But this is the work that I have to do. Tell Giles... tell Giles I figured it out. And, and I'm okay. And give my love to my friends. You have to take care of them now. You have to take care of each other. You have to be strong. Dawn, the hardest thing in this world... is to live in it. Be brave. Live. For me."
The thing that got to me most this episode was Spike face in the last scene