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Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew'd (Flavia de Luce, #8) in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Book 8 in Alan Bradley's wondrous series picks up with Flavia returning home from Canada--no longer in boarding school--and back home among her sisters, family servants, and faithful bike, Gladys. Unfortunately, upon returning home, she is met with the news that her father is gravely ill with pneumonia. Only Flavia's pesky cousin, Undine is around to greet her. Out and about in town, Flavia runs an errand and--in true Flavia fashion-- stumbles across the body of a dead man. He appears to be the local woodcarver, and Flavia finds him hanging upside down in his home. From there, Flavia's downtrodden spirits lift immediately, as there is nothing like a dead body to return her to her true self. She sets out to solve the case before her pal, Inspector Hewitt, can, but this case will offer plenty of twists and turns, even for our young sleuth.
This novel is immediately Flavia, from the start, like picking up with an old friend. The beginning finds Flavia feeling a little lonely and sorry for herself until finding a corpse, of course. With Flavia back from Canada, it's a return to Bradley's tried and true Flavia de Luce formula, but it's certainly not trite, or tired. While the plot is a bit twisty and keeps you guessing, as always, it's Flavia who is the true star. In this book, we see our heroine growing up a bit: not just in age, but in maturity. Thankfully, though, she's still our Flavia, with her feisty spirit and deep love of chemistry. Truly, she's just a dear character and Bradley is amazing in how he captures her voice so perfectly.
These novels never fail to disappoint -- this one, as well. I will continue to highly recommend this series. This can certainly be read as a standalone, but you would be doing yourself a disservice if you don't start at the beginning of Flavia's journey.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and Netgalley (thank you!); it's available for U.S. publication everywhere as of 9/20/16.
This novel is immediately Flavia, from the start, like picking up with an old friend. The beginning finds Flavia feeling a little lonely and sorry for herself until finding a corpse, of course. With Flavia back from Canada, it's a return to Bradley's tried and true Flavia de Luce formula, but it's certainly not trite, or tired. While the plot is a bit twisty and keeps you guessing, as always, it's Flavia who is the true star. In this book, we see our heroine growing up a bit: not just in age, but in maturity. Thankfully, though, she's still our Flavia, with her feisty spirit and deep love of chemistry. Truly, she's just a dear character and Bradley is amazing in how he captures her voice so perfectly.
These novels never fail to disappoint -- this one, as well. I will continue to highly recommend this series. This can certainly be read as a standalone, but you would be doing yourself a disservice if you don't start at the beginning of Flavia's journey.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and Netgalley (thank you!); it's available for U.S. publication everywhere as of 9/20/16.
LilyLovesIndie (123 KP) rated ƒire's Viking (ƒire's Viking, #2) in Books
Nov 5, 2018
In this, the second in the Eire's Viking Trilogy, Agnarr has returned to the Emerald Isle with his heart set on finding himself a wife and making a life amongst the people he had pillaged long ago. Cared for by Charis' adoptive daughter, the relationship quickly spirals into more than that of just a patient and his healer.
This story has a great continuation from the first book, flowing smoothly and sucking you straight back in to the trilogy. That said, I would advise against reading this if you have not already read the first in the series. I was sucked instantly into the series, my attention thoroughly grabbed and it kept me wanting to read more and more. It felt like I was actually there in Ireland, the history was so splendid and totally immersed me in the tale being told. It's just enough history, but it never detracts from the story, rather it enhances it as it makes it so much more real and believable.
The romance in this story is well written, as you'd expect having already seen how Layne developed the relationship between Cowan and Charis. Agnarr and Aislinn seem well suited to each other and their initial resistance is balanced, rather than overplayed. The development of their feelings for each other, and their realisation of that fact, is written with skill.
Charis and Cowan remain wonderful characters to read, and their development, both of their relationship and their characterisation in general, is well continued from the first book. The revisiting of other characters like Tuirgeis was a great addition as, not only is it great to see them again, but it helps build a greater degree of reality to the story.
All in all, this was a very pleasant read, a story I enjoyed and one that developed the trilogy well. If I had to, i'd have a little niggle over the pace, as it did slow slightly, but, nevertheless, it was still a very good read. I am, as with the last book, very excited to see how this trilogy will end.
*This book was first reviewed on Lily Loves Indie as part of a blog tour, for which an ARC was received in return for an honest review*
This story has a great continuation from the first book, flowing smoothly and sucking you straight back in to the trilogy. That said, I would advise against reading this if you have not already read the first in the series. I was sucked instantly into the series, my attention thoroughly grabbed and it kept me wanting to read more and more. It felt like I was actually there in Ireland, the history was so splendid and totally immersed me in the tale being told. It's just enough history, but it never detracts from the story, rather it enhances it as it makes it so much more real and believable.
The romance in this story is well written, as you'd expect having already seen how Layne developed the relationship between Cowan and Charis. Agnarr and Aislinn seem well suited to each other and their initial resistance is balanced, rather than overplayed. The development of their feelings for each other, and their realisation of that fact, is written with skill.
Charis and Cowan remain wonderful characters to read, and their development, both of their relationship and their characterisation in general, is well continued from the first book. The revisiting of other characters like Tuirgeis was a great addition as, not only is it great to see them again, but it helps build a greater degree of reality to the story.
All in all, this was a very pleasant read, a story I enjoyed and one that developed the trilogy well. If I had to, i'd have a little niggle over the pace, as it did slow slightly, but, nevertheless, it was still a very good read. I am, as with the last book, very excited to see how this trilogy will end.
*This book was first reviewed on Lily Loves Indie as part of a blog tour, for which an ARC was received in return for an honest review*
Lindsay (1760 KP) rated A Small Case of Murder (Joshua Thornton Mystery #1) in Books
Apr 16, 2024
We are introduced to Joshua Thornton and his five children in chapter 1. The prologue brings Lulu Jefferson's view and a little bit about his parents. We are also introduced to Tad. There is a catch as Joshua moves his family to his former hometown.
He seems to get caught helping someone who tried to kill his cousin Tad in a church, and it seems to bring more to be involved. All when he goes to the state attorney general. It is more as his murderer with his arrangement and ends up murdered along with Beth Davis.
There is a twist when things get more complicated, and the state attorney general decides to ask or request Joshua to become a Special Prosecutor for the case of Vicki Rawlings and Beth Davis. They think he got the trust of the citizens of his hometown. Will he take the offer, or will he not?
Joshua is working with a police officer and a local reporter. What appears to be one thing is that his children are so like him that they want to join in and protect him. Does Joshua wish to be a dad and raise them, or will he hide from them and not send this child to live with their extended family? How will he decide to deal with the life he was chosen for?
Lauren Carr's Mysteries and stories are good. However, this one is less dense when it starts at the story's beginning. However, the action is improving, with this one being when Joshua and his five children are introduced. They are about school age. This book gets better as it goes along.
This is probably when she was starting to write these kinds of stories. This is their second series, so it has improved dramatically since. I love this one. I only wish I knew more about what happened to Valerie and what caused her to pass away. Then Joshua moved and settled in his hometown with his lovely five children. But other than that, it is a good starter book or series to get into her books, Along with Mac Faraday Mysteries.
He seems to get caught helping someone who tried to kill his cousin Tad in a church, and it seems to bring more to be involved. All when he goes to the state attorney general. It is more as his murderer with his arrangement and ends up murdered along with Beth Davis.
There is a twist when things get more complicated, and the state attorney general decides to ask or request Joshua to become a Special Prosecutor for the case of Vicki Rawlings and Beth Davis. They think he got the trust of the citizens of his hometown. Will he take the offer, or will he not?
Joshua is working with a police officer and a local reporter. What appears to be one thing is that his children are so like him that they want to join in and protect him. Does Joshua wish to be a dad and raise them, or will he hide from them and not send this child to live with their extended family? How will he decide to deal with the life he was chosen for?
Lauren Carr's Mysteries and stories are good. However, this one is less dense when it starts at the story's beginning. However, the action is improving, with this one being when Joshua and his five children are introduced. They are about school age. This book gets better as it goes along.
This is probably when she was starting to write these kinds of stories. This is their second series, so it has improved dramatically since. I love this one. I only wish I knew more about what happened to Valerie and what caused her to pass away. Then Joshua moved and settled in his hometown with his lovely five children. But other than that, it is a good starter book or series to get into her books, Along with Mac Faraday Mysteries.
Mark Halpern (153 KP) rated Star Trek Into Darkness (2013) in Movies
Jan 11, 2018
Remake of wrath of Kahn
The new star trek series is yet to disappoint it's loyal viewers and the remake of the orignal second film does not disappoint. The story has changed for the better and Khan (Cumberbatch) is seen a fighter, defender and murderer in this version. Krik and crew are sent to kill Khan after he first creates a terroist event within the federation and then commits first degree murder in its leadership but, we all know kirk will do the right thing and tries to be himself when his emotions are already running high. If you have seen the first one you know how it ends this ending to me was much better thought out and is way better. I don't want to spoil it so if you are a fan please watch.
Auburn (57 KP) rated Finding Kyler (The Kennedy Boys, #1) in Books
Apr 10, 2019
The good: Romance, twists, turns, brooding Kyle, and damaged Faye. The plot to this book is wonderfully well written. It brings you into the Kennedy family and makes you care for not just the main characters but the other boys in the family. Add on the forbidden cousin relationship and you have a story you won't want to put down. The bombshell cliffhanger insures you will be heading to the next book ASAP to find out what will happen.
The bad: I had a hard time with the whole cousin thing for a lot of the book. But if you can get past that the steamy push pull is pretty well done.
The epilogue: This book is for fans of the Royals series as well as anyone who enjoys a good angst ridden push pull relationship.
The bad: I had a hard time with the whole cousin thing for a lot of the book. But if you can get past that the steamy push pull is pretty well done.
The epilogue: This book is for fans of the Royals series as well as anyone who enjoys a good angst ridden push pull relationship.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2373 KP) rated The Final Deduction (Nero Wolfe, #35) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
Nero is hired by actress Althea Vail when her current husband is kidnapped. She pays the ransom and everything seems to be going well - until someone is murdered.
I'm not super familiar with this series, something I should definitely change. I found Nero a little egotistical at times, but it certainly helps that we are spending time away from him thanks to Archie's narration and trips outside Nero's home. The plot is fast paced with plenty of twists to keep me engaged. The suspects are a bit weak, but that is a minor issue overall. There are some dated references since this book was written in the 1960's, so keep that in mind as you read.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2013/04/book-review-final-deduction-by-rex-stout.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
I'm not super familiar with this series, something I should definitely change. I found Nero a little egotistical at times, but it certainly helps that we are spending time away from him thanks to Archie's narration and trips outside Nero's home. The plot is fast paced with plenty of twists to keep me engaged. The suspects are a bit weak, but that is a minor issue overall. There are some dated references since this book was written in the 1960's, so keep that in mind as you read.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2013/04/book-review-final-deduction-by-rex-stout.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Chrissie-ann (78 KP) rated Pop Goes the Weasel (Alex Cross, #5) in Books
Jun 19, 2018
I can't tire of this series
This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time, I purposely took my time reading it only reading small bits at a time so I could really appreciate and take on what I was reading. James Patterson is an incredible writer who can set the scene and create amazing characters. He has the ability to make you feel as though you are part of the story as you begin to become invested in the characters and their lives. Alex cross being in love is one of my favourite things and the cases he faces are disturbing to say the least. James has an incredible imagination and understanding of the law. As I got towards the end of the book I realised I could not put it down until I knew what had happened.
Gisell Middleton (189 KP) rated Promise Not to Tell in Books
Jul 12, 2018
This book is either a romance wrapped up in a mystery or a mystery within a romance. It's hard to decide which even though the formula seems to offer the same end result. This is the second in a series and it is pretty much exactly the same as the first, even down to the damaged yet strong female client who falls in love with the rugged and brave private investigator, the monumental yet nonchalant declaration of love and the hurried nuptials. The characters and situations are interchangeable and, while it makes for an entertaining read, the mind starts to wander once you can figure out what's coming next because you've read it before. The characters however are likable and while the "issues" are not very imaginative, the author does manage to make us care about them and their lives.
David McK (3569 KP) rated All Star Superman in Books
Jan 28, 2019
While I initially thought that this was going to be a self-contained story in its own right, upon having read it I now think that this is instead a compilation of a (roughly) 12 issue long comic run.
Some of the episodes, I felt, were far superior to others: in some (perhaps more than I was comfortable with), I didn't really follow what was happening.
There is an over-arching plot throughout the entire series, with Superman 'overpowering' himself with solar radiation in the opening of the first episode, and with his body beginning to fail as a result.
I also found the art-style slightly off-putting: I can understand drawing the man of steel in a square/blocky 'strong' art style, but ma and pa Kent? Really?
Perhaps not the best of introductions for anybody new to Superman comics.
Some of the episodes, I felt, were far superior to others: in some (perhaps more than I was comfortable with), I didn't really follow what was happening.
There is an over-arching plot throughout the entire series, with Superman 'overpowering' himself with solar radiation in the opening of the first episode, and with his body beginning to fail as a result.
I also found the art-style slightly off-putting: I can understand drawing the man of steel in a square/blocky 'strong' art style, but ma and pa Kent? Really?
Perhaps not the best of introductions for anybody new to Superman comics.
David McK (3569 KP) rated The Hippopotamus Pool (Amelia Peabody, #8) in Books
Jan 30, 2019
Set in the early years of the 20th century, this is the eighth entry in [a:Elizabeth Peters|16549|Elizabeth Peters|https://d2arxad8u2l0g7.cloudfront.net/authors/1232144920p2/16549.jpg] Amelia Peabody series, and sees the interprid archaelogist and her extended family returning to Egypt, with Emerson hoping for an uneventful season.
Fat chance!
It's not long before they become embroiled in yet another mystery following the appearance (and subsequent disapperance of) a mysterious stranger, who claims to be able to lead them to an Egyptian Queen's lost tomb.
Told, as before, thorugh Amelia's eyes, this also (eventually) brings Emerson's brother Walter and his wife Evelyn - who are going through a rough patch - back to Egypt where they first met and fell in love, as well as depicting the teenaged interactions/arguments/jealousies between Amelia's precocious son Ramses and their just-as-precocious ward Nefret.
Fat chance!
It's not long before they become embroiled in yet another mystery following the appearance (and subsequent disapperance of) a mysterious stranger, who claims to be able to lead them to an Egyptian Queen's lost tomb.
Told, as before, thorugh Amelia's eyes, this also (eventually) brings Emerson's brother Walter and his wife Evelyn - who are going through a rough patch - back to Egypt where they first met and fell in love, as well as depicting the teenaged interactions/arguments/jealousies between Amelia's precocious son Ramses and their just-as-precocious ward Nefret.