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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2662 KP) rated Round Up the Usual Peacocks in Books
Sep 1, 2022 (Updated Sep 1, 2022)
Will Killers Crash the Wedding of the Century?
Meg’s brother is getting married and their mother is working on turning it into the wedding of the century. However, Meg’s nephew, Kevin, comes to her with a request for help. Kevin and a friend have started a true crime podcast focusing on cold cases, and they think one of their episodes hit too close to home since someone has tried to kill Kevin’s friend. Meg begins investigating the most likely cases. But can she figure out what is going on before the wedding?
Longtime fans of this series know this isn’t the first time we’ve seen Meg at weddings involving peacocks. However, this isn’t a retread in any way. And, if you are new to the series, you can jump in here and enjoy the antics. With three cases for Meg to consider, there is plenty to keep her hopping. I was hooked the entire way, even though I suspected where the stories were going. For the record, I was right on some things and wrong on others. The climax was a little weaker than I would have liked, but it was a minor issue. We have the usual large cast of characters, and it was fantastic to spend time with them. There may not be a laugh on every page here, but there are some classic moments that made me laugh. This is a delightful book that will please Meg’s fans old and new.
Longtime fans of this series know this isn’t the first time we’ve seen Meg at weddings involving peacocks. However, this isn’t a retread in any way. And, if you are new to the series, you can jump in here and enjoy the antics. With three cases for Meg to consider, there is plenty to keep her hopping. I was hooked the entire way, even though I suspected where the stories were going. For the record, I was right on some things and wrong on others. The climax was a little weaker than I would have liked, but it was a minor issue. We have the usual large cast of characters, and it was fantastic to spend time with them. There may not be a laugh on every page here, but there are some classic moments that made me laugh. This is a delightful book that will please Meg’s fans old and new.
Merissa (14190 KP) rated A Bright Celestial Sea by Chani Lynn Feener in Books
Jun 27, 2022
A BRIGHT CELESTIAL SEA is a standalone that could easily be the first in a series.
Pryor and Castor, plus others in their crew, are sent to a World Ship to find a missing royal. It's not that easy though, and things become complicated when other things are found to be missing too. Throw in an Emperor-in-waiting and you've got one helluva story.
Half of the mystery is easy to see - it doesn't hide at all, except from Wystan and the others. But still, as the reader, it is all there for you as we are in Pryor's mind for the most part. The other part though - was brilliantly set up, with only a few clues as I neared the end. I won't say anything else but I loved it!
The world-building is second to none. The worlds and ships, plus the different hierarchies, are simple and clean to see. I didn't feel like the story lagged in any places; it definitely kept my attention from beginning to end.
This author is new-to-me but I will absolutely be keeping an eye out for future publications - especially if this does become a series. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Pryor and Castor, plus others in their crew, are sent to a World Ship to find a missing royal. It's not that easy though, and things become complicated when other things are found to be missing too. Throw in an Emperor-in-waiting and you've got one helluva story.
Half of the mystery is easy to see - it doesn't hide at all, except from Wystan and the others. But still, as the reader, it is all there for you as we are in Pryor's mind for the most part. The other part though - was brilliantly set up, with only a few clues as I neared the end. I won't say anything else but I loved it!
The world-building is second to none. The worlds and ships, plus the different hierarchies, are simple and clean to see. I didn't feel like the story lagged in any places; it definitely kept my attention from beginning to end.
This author is new-to-me but I will absolutely be keeping an eye out for future publications - especially if this does become a series. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Merissa (14190 KP) rated Alpha (Blood Moon, Texas Shifters #4) in Books
Oct 4, 2022
ALPHA is the fourth book in the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series and London and Brody get their time to shine. I definitely recommend you read this in order as the overall story arc goes from book one and I feel you would miss out on some of the finer details if you don't.
Brody and London are both Alphas of their packs, and an archaic law says two alphas can't be mated. So both of them act as though it's just a bit of fun when everyone else knows it's not. As their relationship as friends and lovers is already long established, you don't get a lot in the way of their relationship changing or growing.
The overall arc moves along at a fair rate of knots in this edition, almost overshadowing the story between Brody and London in places. All of it was important and relevant, mind you. I just felt as though Brody and London's personal connection got lost in the mix even though they were the key players in the story.
A great addition to the series and I definitely recommend it, on the proviso that you read the others first!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Brody and London are both Alphas of their packs, and an archaic law says two alphas can't be mated. So both of them act as though it's just a bit of fun when everyone else knows it's not. As their relationship as friends and lovers is already long established, you don't get a lot in the way of their relationship changing or growing.
The overall arc moves along at a fair rate of knots in this edition, almost overshadowing the story between Brody and London in places. All of it was important and relevant, mind you. I just felt as though Brody and London's personal connection got lost in the mix even though they were the key players in the story.
A great addition to the series and I definitely recommend it, on the proviso that you read the others first!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Merissa (14190 KP) rated Footsteps of the Past (Second Chances #2) in Books
Jul 15, 2021 (Updated Jul 17, 2023)
FOOTSTEPS OF THE PAST is the second book in the Second Chances series and this time, it is Chess and André's story. They have been together for nine years but there are still secrets hidden away, just waiting to be found.
Oh, what a story. Poor Chess. I can completely understand where he was coming from. He's worked so hard to turn his life around, but sometimes the doubt resurfaces that maybe, just maybe, he doesn't deserve all the good things. As for André, he loves Chess completely but is swayed by his mum to be away from him more often than not. I loved it when he took a stand and said 'enough!'
The group of friends play a big part, as you would imagine. Elliot and Win are still my favourites, with Chess and André close behind. As I suspected would happen, Ms Stevens is changing my mind about Spencer, and Wolf has learnt his lesson.
A fantastic addition to the series, this book focuses on truth and honesty, sharing the highs and the lows. I loved every word and have no hesitation in recommending it.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 15, 2021
Oh, what a story. Poor Chess. I can completely understand where he was coming from. He's worked so hard to turn his life around, but sometimes the doubt resurfaces that maybe, just maybe, he doesn't deserve all the good things. As for André, he loves Chess completely but is swayed by his mum to be away from him more often than not. I loved it when he took a stand and said 'enough!'
The group of friends play a big part, as you would imagine. Elliot and Win are still my favourites, with Chess and André close behind. As I suspected would happen, Ms Stevens is changing my mind about Spencer, and Wolf has learnt his lesson.
A fantastic addition to the series, this book focuses on truth and honesty, sharing the highs and the lows. I loved every word and have no hesitation in recommending it.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 15, 2021
MelanieTheresa (997 KP) rated The Perfect Girlfriend in Books
Mar 27, 2019 (Updated Mar 28, 2019)
"If you love someone, set them free.
If they come back, they're yours. If they don't, make them."
I cannot even tell you how many times I said to myself, "This chick is INSANE," while reading this story.
And she is. Juliette Price is smart (with enviable investigative skills), attractive, and completely delusional. She is certainly not a likable character - actually, none of the characters are very likable - but she is fascinating in an American Psycho kind of way. The story is made all the more creepy by Juliette's narrative, because the delusional never think they're delusional, now do they? No, everyone else must be the problem. This 100% applies in this case.
I appreciate the fact that there's no "big twist" in this one, but rather a series of smaller twists that help to further the narrative. Honestly, Juliette herself is so twisted, that's all you really need.
Also, can I take a minute here to say that Nate is SUCH a douche, and even a bonkers chick like Juliette deserves someone better to stalk?
I'm giving this one 9.5 stars rounded down because the ending frustrated the hell out of me. How about an epilogue? Gah.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin-Graydon House Books for the opportunity to preview this title early in exchange for an honest review.
If they come back, they're yours. If they don't, make them."
I cannot even tell you how many times I said to myself, "This chick is INSANE," while reading this story.
And she is. Juliette Price is smart (with enviable investigative skills), attractive, and completely delusional. She is certainly not a likable character - actually, none of the characters are very likable - but she is fascinating in an American Psycho kind of way. The story is made all the more creepy by Juliette's narrative, because the delusional never think they're delusional, now do they? No, everyone else must be the problem. This 100% applies in this case.
I appreciate the fact that there's no "big twist" in this one, but rather a series of smaller twists that help to further the narrative. Honestly, Juliette herself is so twisted, that's all you really need.
Also, can I take a minute here to say that Nate is SUCH a douche, and even a bonkers chick like Juliette deserves someone better to stalk?
I'm giving this one 9.5 stars rounded down because the ending frustrated the hell out of me. How about an epilogue? Gah.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin-Graydon House Books for the opportunity to preview this title early in exchange for an honest review.
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated Double Dose (Research & Desire, #4) in Books
Jul 10, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first Katie Allen book that I have read. It is also the 4th in the series. When it comes to romantic suspenses I crave a good plot line and good characters, this book didn't give me what I wanted. The idea behind this book was extremely intriguing. I love the idea of a kidnapped damsel who falls for the not so bad guy plot.
Unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I want to get to know the characters better. Daphne, has the classic "I'm a klutz" syndrome that most heroines have. It's a way to get women to relate to her and show that she isn't perfect but it really is over used. The characters were very shallow and the backstory for them were minimal. I would have loved to have more depth and development for the main characters. It seems that there was never a moment where they weren't going to fall madly in love. It was a very cookie cutter romance.
Ultimately, I loved the idea but the execution was lacking. I think what would have made this more than a 3 star book would be better character development. This would have added an emotional attachment that would have helped when the plot was lacking.
This is the first Katie Allen book that I have read. It is also the 4th in the series. When it comes to romantic suspenses I crave a good plot line and good characters, this book didn't give me what I wanted. The idea behind this book was extremely intriguing. I love the idea of a kidnapped damsel who falls for the not so bad guy plot.
Unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I want to get to know the characters better. Daphne, has the classic "I'm a klutz" syndrome that most heroines have. It's a way to get women to relate to her and show that she isn't perfect but it really is over used. The characters were very shallow and the backstory for them were minimal. I would have loved to have more depth and development for the main characters. It seems that there was never a moment where they weren't going to fall madly in love. It was a very cookie cutter romance.
Ultimately, I loved the idea but the execution was lacking. I think what would have made this more than a 3 star book would be better character development. This would have added an emotional attachment that would have helped when the plot was lacking.
Sonofdel (6291 KP) rated Harry H Corbett: The Front Legs of the Cow in Books
Oct 31, 2019
Insightful, Poignant and Revealing
I started reading this after only knowing of Harry H Corvett in Steptoe and son as Harold the long suffering son of Albert (Wilfrid Brambell) and also n Carry on Screaming as Sidney Bung. I never realised what an accomplished actor he was at this point. After reading this amazing insight into his life i have realsied how versatile an actor he really was. With this being written by his daughter i expected a lot of fawning sentimentality and i am glad that i was proved wrong. This is a very revealing, moving and motivational book written with care and consideration. As well as her own personal experiences she draws on people from stage and screen that include but are not limited to Bryan Murphy, Lynda Baron and writers such as Ray Galton and Alan Simpson. One of the best bigraphies i have read for a very long time. Its a long book and tells of the history of the various theatres that Harry worked at and for but i found this interesting rather than distracting. This also includes a section at the end that debunks some of the myths associated with Steptoe and Son (them hating each other, Wilfrid Brambell always being drunk etc). All in all a five star read.
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Jumanji: The Next Level (2019) in Movies
Jan 8, 2020
Second rate sequel
I'm probably the only person who didn't really rate the first film in this reboot series. Yes it was better than I expected but not great, although having watched this sequel I can definitely now appreciate the first film.
This is by far a second rate sequel. The whole plot and game premise offered is just a little dull and predictable, and the bad guy is this is even less threatening in the first film (which is a shame seen as he's Rory McCann). They've tried to go even more extravagant with the set pieces and action scenes, but it doesn't quite hide the fact that the plot is fairly weak. Which is a shame as seeing the gang all back together again is actually quite fun. The way they've done the avatars this time round started off ridiculously funny, but there are a couple of characters who soon get very irritating very quickly. Thankfully we've got Jack Black who really shines in this no matter who he is, and he at least makes up for some of the more irritating characters. The inclusion of Danny DeVito and Danny Glover seemed entirely unnecessary.
Overall this was a vaguely enjoyable film but despite it's runtime being less than 2 hours, really seemed to drag. And I hate how they've set it up for yet another sequel.
This is by far a second rate sequel. The whole plot and game premise offered is just a little dull and predictable, and the bad guy is this is even less threatening in the first film (which is a shame seen as he's Rory McCann). They've tried to go even more extravagant with the set pieces and action scenes, but it doesn't quite hide the fact that the plot is fairly weak. Which is a shame as seeing the gang all back together again is actually quite fun. The way they've done the avatars this time round started off ridiculously funny, but there are a couple of characters who soon get very irritating very quickly. Thankfully we've got Jack Black who really shines in this no matter who he is, and he at least makes up for some of the more irritating characters. The inclusion of Danny DeVito and Danny Glover seemed entirely unnecessary.
Overall this was a vaguely enjoyable film but despite it's runtime being less than 2 hours, really seemed to drag. And I hate how they've set it up for yet another sequel.
Erika (17789 KP) rated This Is a Robbery: The World's Greatest Art Heist in TV
May 1, 2021 (Updated May 1, 2021)
My review of this documentary may be slightly bias because I've read several books on the Gardner Heist, including the FBI Agent's memoir who nearly tracked down the missing paintings, but got stuck in a pissing contest between agencies.
First, I felt like they should have had this FBI Agent contribute more to the documentary, rather than presenting some other theories as to where the paintings ended up. I actually thought they were going to have him appear in the last ep, but he didn't. This would have bumped up the rating for me, honestly.
Second, so many conspiracy theories with the Italian mob. I just shook my head at this. Way too much focus. The police department's focus seemed half-ass, and like they took the easy way out by blaming the mob, then didn't interview actual witnesses again.
The BEST PART of this documentary series was when they interviewed a guy that is a member of the IRA. There was a theory that the IRA had lifted them. The guy basically told everyone to F-off, because the IRA wasn't involved. I cackled because it was completely hilarious.
Overall, this was just ok. It would probably be really interesting for people that don't know anything, or very little, about the Heist. Sure, this heist is interesting, but not 'The World's Greatest Heist'.
First, I felt like they should have had this FBI Agent contribute more to the documentary, rather than presenting some other theories as to where the paintings ended up. I actually thought they were going to have him appear in the last ep, but he didn't. This would have bumped up the rating for me, honestly.
Second, so many conspiracy theories with the Italian mob. I just shook my head at this. Way too much focus. The police department's focus seemed half-ass, and like they took the easy way out by blaming the mob, then didn't interview actual witnesses again.
The BEST PART of this documentary series was when they interviewed a guy that is a member of the IRA. There was a theory that the IRA had lifted them. The guy basically told everyone to F-off, because the IRA wasn't involved. I cackled because it was completely hilarious.
Overall, this was just ok. It would probably be really interesting for people that don't know anything, or very little, about the Heist. Sure, this heist is interesting, but not 'The World's Greatest Heist'.
Merissa (14190 KP) rated Break My Bones (The Wish Makers #2) in Books
Apr 10, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
This is the second book in the Wish Makers series and tells the tale of Crissy. This book was hard to read, to begin with, as the emotion packs a wallop. Hearing Crissy justify what Brad was doing was hard to read about and so too were the reactions of some of those she told.
Seeing both Crissy and Desiree's journey through this book was both amazing and heartbreaking at the same time. You understand further some of the reactions that they both have and it helps to put it all together.
One of the best parts about this book was that there is no knight in shining armour (as such) who comes to rescue Crissy and lead her into a glowing sunset with a happy ever after. Lance is there to help her find her own strength and courage, to show her self-defence moves that might help save her life but he is not there to do it all for her.
This is a fantastic book which deals with a very difficult subject. Definitely recommended.
* 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!
July 30, 2016
Seeing both Crissy and Desiree's journey through this book was both amazing and heartbreaking at the same time. You understand further some of the reactions that they both have and it helps to put it all together.
One of the best parts about this book was that there is no knight in shining armour (as such) who comes to rescue Crissy and lead her into a glowing sunset with a happy ever after. Lance is there to help her find her own strength and courage, to show her self-defence moves that might help save her life but he is not there to do it all for her.
This is a fantastic book which deals with a very difficult subject. Definitely recommended.
* 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!
July 30, 2016