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Bubblesreview (110 KP) rated Turtles All The Way Down in Books
Feb 6, 2019
Intelligent writing (2 more)
Realistic mental health issues
Fandom representation and fanfiction
Wow. Just wow.
The synopsis for this book was very short, precisely 9 lines. The synopsis made me expect to read a book much like paper towns where they go on an adventure, detective style and find the missing person. However, this book was something so much more than that. The main concept of the book I felt was actually about the mental health of the main character Aza. Aza has severe intrusive thoughts that take control of her life. Near to the end of the book a sudden and dramatic incident occurs and you're left unknowing what the outcome will be. Although I wish it never ended, John Green ends the book perfectly.
When a book has help line contact details in the authors notes, you know it's going to be a serious book.
It took me less than 24hours to finish this book, I physically couldn't put it down. John notes in the AN that it took 6 years to finish the book, I can completely understand why. Just wow
When a book has help line contact details in the authors notes, you know it's going to be a serious book.
It took me less than 24hours to finish this book, I physically couldn't put it down. John notes in the AN that it took 6 years to finish the book, I can completely understand why. Just wow
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Improper English in Books
Feb 15, 2019
What a book! This was hilarious at first, and I do mean hilarious, and then it began to get serious while still maintaining its humor. This book really wrung me out with Alix's emotions. I know that Alix would probably annoy others and they'd hate her insecurities and reasons she did some things, but I understood her. Although Alix is more outgoing, in some ways she reminds me of myself, and I think that has made this book more meaningful (perhaps we all have a little bit of Alix inside?). She was truly a realistic character and I loved her, flaws and all, and really felt for her at times. Alex, while I think he could have been developed more, was still a very good hero for Alix. He was just what she needed so she could start recognizing what she needed to do to change her patterns. I liked all the side characters; they added a nice touch to the story. I really don't know what else to say about this heartwarming tale, I just loved it! Even if it did leave me emotionally drained. :)
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Curse of the Kissing Cousins (A "Where Are They Now" Mystery, #1) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
Originally titled WITHOUT MERCY, CURSE OF THE KISSING COUSINS is a good start to the series, even with some flaws. The main character/sleuth/nostalgic reporter, Tilda, is smart and likable, funny and realistic - basically, a solid lead (no pun intended, originally :P). The plot is interesting and for the most part, flowed smoothly; the same could be said about the additional characters. My favorites were fanboy Vincent and the kinda-sorta-cliche gay friend/co-worker, Cooper, who both added a lot to the book. Actually, none of the characters were unnecessary or overdone, from the less-than-perfect roommate to the back-stabber at <i>Entertain Me!</i> to the the lecherous computer geek, all contributed to the book as a whole. However, with all the good the book had, there was just something missing, besides Mercy. I can't quite put my finger on it, but even though I really did enjoy the book, there was just something off. The idea behind this series is really cool and I hope it gets better as it goes along. I look forward to WHO KILLED THE PIN-UP QUEEN?
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
Madbatdan82 (341 KP) rated Brawl In Cell Block 99 (2017) in Movies
Apr 1, 2019
Is this really Vince Vaughan?!
I'm reviewing this as S. Craig Zahler's newest film is out soon and I'm very much looking forward to it so I thought I'd review one of his previous films. Where as I really enjoyed his debut 'Bone Tomahawk' it's this film that is undoubtedly one of the best films of the last 10 years. Theres so much that blows me away in this film. The characters are portrayed so well that you are glued to the screen for each word of dialogue. The fight scenes, whilst being some of the most realistic I've ever scene, are also the most gory and visceral I've scene in a long time. The star of the show is Vince Vaughan in one of the most surprising & unexpected performances ever. Gone is his typicsl comedy and wise cracking and he is terrifying but you're also sympathetic to his situation. Just a brilliant piece of acting in a truly brilliant film by one of the best film makers around at the moment. I cannot wait for 'dragged across concrete'.
Awix (3310 KP) rated One Cut of the Dead (Kamera o Tomeru na!) (2017) in Movies
May 11, 2019 (Updated May 11, 2019)
Wildly inventive, brilliantly entertaining and original take on the zombie horror genre. A weary group of actors and technicians struggling to finish a zombie movie, not least because of their unhinged director (Hamatsu), are appalled when real zombies turn up and start attacking the production. However, the director is delighted at this chance to make the most realistic zombie film ever!
If I say that no other film this year has made me laugh as hard or as long as this one, you will perhaps realise that there is more going on here than initially meets the eye. To say more really would be to spoil it, except that - well, if the film does not contain at one point an unbroken 37-minute take, including multiple zombie attacks and gory deaths, then it does a very good job of faking it. Almost like a magic trick in the way it makes you laugh at a series of jokes, deconstructs those gags, and then somehow forces you to laugh at exactly the same jokes all over again, only even harder. Terrific performances from Hamatsu and Shuhama in particular, but this is exceptionally good fun in every way. A gory joy.
If I say that no other film this year has made me laugh as hard or as long as this one, you will perhaps realise that there is more going on here than initially meets the eye. To say more really would be to spoil it, except that - well, if the film does not contain at one point an unbroken 37-minute take, including multiple zombie attacks and gory deaths, then it does a very good job of faking it. Almost like a magic trick in the way it makes you laugh at a series of jokes, deconstructs those gags, and then somehow forces you to laugh at exactly the same jokes all over again, only even harder. Terrific performances from Hamatsu and Shuhama in particular, but this is exceptionally good fun in every way. A gory joy.
Danielle Chaplin (81 KP) rated Guilty Pleasures in Books
Jun 1, 2019
Incredible
I cannot recommend this book enough! I read it when I was around 14 years old and it was one of the first books I've read where the characters and lives are so realistic (obviously the setting is slightly fantastical with supernatural creatures), it was so refreshing to see characters getting injured and that injury lasting more than a couple of pages, for there to be a need to eat and sleep which some stories don't seem to deem necessary, and for the character to struggle with issues more than just a bad guy. It was amazing that the main character wasn't some meek female that grew into someone strong in the space of a story but that she worked her butt off before the setting of the story and was just introduced as this hard as nails vampire executioner that loves penguins.
This was the perfect start to an amazing series that blew the Charlaine Harris books completely out of the water! A must read for any vampire/supernatural fan but do be warned that the later books do get more graphic and sexual so probably not suitable for younger readers.
This was the perfect start to an amazing series that blew the Charlaine Harris books completely out of the water! A must read for any vampire/supernatural fan but do be warned that the later books do get more graphic and sexual so probably not suitable for younger readers.
A Dark and Creepy Read
I'm basing this review on a re-read of this novel. I read this book originally about 7-8 years ago and thought I would re-read it now, to see if or how my opinions changed.
The things that stick out for me with this book, are the description and writing. It's a very well crafted piece of literature, which has realistic and believable characters. This book is not exactly centred on a plot as such, but focuses more on the psychology of the teenagers in the Hole and for that, it does that very well.
The pacing of the novel is really good. The drama and suspense within this novel slowly creeps up on you, as you read through this novel.
On my second reading, I did guess the majority of the twist which happens at the end, so I don't think it had as much impact on me as it did the first time I read this. However, the ending was satisfactory regardless.
If you like a dark read with twists and turns, then I would recommend this novel.
The things that stick out for me with this book, are the description and writing. It's a very well crafted piece of literature, which has realistic and believable characters. This book is not exactly centred on a plot as such, but focuses more on the psychology of the teenagers in the Hole and for that, it does that very well.
The pacing of the novel is really good. The drama and suspense within this novel slowly creeps up on you, as you read through this novel.
On my second reading, I did guess the majority of the twist which happens at the end, so I don't think it had as much impact on me as it did the first time I read this. However, the ending was satisfactory regardless.
If you like a dark read with twists and turns, then I would recommend this novel.
ArecRain (8 KP) rated The Gladiator's Temptation (Champions of Rome #2) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I had no idea what I was getting into starting this novel. I have read a handful of Ancient Rome romances, and they all seem to be lacking. There seems to be one element missing, whether it be historical accuracy, a tangible storyline, or realistic romance. This novel had everything and more. The author really knew her history, using jargon that gave the story a more authentic feel.
What really got me was the story line. Most of the romance I have read begin with the couple either meeting, or coming together again after a separation, then their progression to falling in love. This story differed in that, you get to read their story, but itÂ’s more about them fighting the fates to be together instead of learning about each other. It was a nice change of pace but every challenge they faced broke my heart. I feel that the ending made up for all the torment the author put me through, however.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an emotional read to go with their steamy scenes and historically correct jargon.
I had no idea what I was getting into starting this novel. I have read a handful of Ancient Rome romances, and they all seem to be lacking. There seems to be one element missing, whether it be historical accuracy, a tangible storyline, or realistic romance. This novel had everything and more. The author really knew her history, using jargon that gave the story a more authentic feel.
What really got me was the story line. Most of the romance I have read begin with the couple either meeting, or coming together again after a separation, then their progression to falling in love. This story differed in that, you get to read their story, but itÂ’s more about them fighting the fates to be together instead of learning about each other. It was a nice change of pace but every challenge they faced broke my heart. I feel that the ending made up for all the torment the author put me through, however.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an emotional read to go with their steamy scenes and historically correct jargon.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Summer Secrets in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Cat is a journalist in London, divorced, and raising her daughter. Earlier, her mother had revealed a secret about Cat's past -- the identity of her true father. When Cat journeyed to Nantucket to meet him - and her two half sisters - something bad happened, and it traumatized her. Now she's a recovering alcoholic and wondering if she can right the wrongs from her long ago meeting with her estranged family.
This was an enjoyable read - the story goes back and forth with flashbacks, which helps build up the suspense. Some of the plot is a little outlandish, but it's a fast read and fun. It's a little painful to read sometimes; Cat can certainly be a frustrating character at times, and you just want to shake her. (Also, I don't recommend reading this if you're triggered by reading alcoholism scenes.) However, present day Cat is a relatable character, for the most part, and fun to root for. Her two half sisters, Julia and Ellie, are pieces of work in themselves, and the book presents a fairly realistic look at modern day family and sisterhood. Overall, probably 3.5 stars.
This was an enjoyable read - the story goes back and forth with flashbacks, which helps build up the suspense. Some of the plot is a little outlandish, but it's a fast read and fun. It's a little painful to read sometimes; Cat can certainly be a frustrating character at times, and you just want to shake her. (Also, I don't recommend reading this if you're triggered by reading alcoholism scenes.) However, present day Cat is a relatable character, for the most part, and fun to root for. Her two half sisters, Julia and Ellie, are pieces of work in themselves, and the book presents a fairly realistic look at modern day family and sisterhood. Overall, probably 3.5 stars.
Dana (24 KP) rated Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror in Books
Mar 23, 2018
"Versions of cities flattened under the equalizing night.
The summer demands and takes away too much,
But night, the reserved, reticent, gives more than it takes."
- As One Put Drunk into the Packet Boat
There are so many emotions in this collection: loneliness, grief, sadness, hope, longing, fear--they are all so strong but not overpowering.
I love whenever he talks about stillness and silence. Those moments are so peaceful and full of possibility. It almost makes you ache to be in one of those moments.
His thoughts on writing and what it takes to be a writer and writes are so perfectly beautiful.
There seems to be a theme of forgotten moments and trying to recapture those moments.
Any time he mentioned the night or any water, I just loved. Mainly because I love both of those things, but also because there was so much care in those details that they become so realistic.
My Favorite Poems from the Collection:
As One Put Drunk into the Packet Boat
A Man of Words
Grand Galop
River
The One Thing that Can Save America
Ode to Bill
The summer demands and takes away too much,
But night, the reserved, reticent, gives more than it takes."
- As One Put Drunk into the Packet Boat
There are so many emotions in this collection: loneliness, grief, sadness, hope, longing, fear--they are all so strong but not overpowering.
I love whenever he talks about stillness and silence. Those moments are so peaceful and full of possibility. It almost makes you ache to be in one of those moments.
His thoughts on writing and what it takes to be a writer and writes are so perfectly beautiful.
There seems to be a theme of forgotten moments and trying to recapture those moments.
Any time he mentioned the night or any water, I just loved. Mainly because I love both of those things, but also because there was so much care in those details that they become so realistic.
My Favorite Poems from the Collection:
As One Put Drunk into the Packet Boat
A Man of Words
Grand Galop
River
The One Thing that Can Save America
Ode to Bill