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Suswatibasu (1703 KP) rated Call Me by Your Name (2017) in Movies
Jan 7, 2018 (Updated Jan 7, 2018)
Slow first-half, heartbreaking in the second
For fans of Richard Linklater's Before Sunrise/Sunset series, Call Me By Your Name definitely has the same tone and visual style. Focusing on an unknown northern Italian landscape, the audience is taken on a journey in this coming of age film, in which 17-year-old Elio welcomes an American houseguest for the summer, and it is apparent that he begins to develop feelings for him.
From denial and hatred, to jealousy and love, Elio is portrayed as a clearly complex teenager in the sense that he is more withdrawn than his peers, infatuated with his music. But it is soon obvious why he feels like an outsider and misunderstood. On the other hand, Oliver, a charming and confident archaeologist, appears to be playing games at first only to reveal his mutual love in return. The last scene is heartbreaking when the reality dawns on them both.
The first half is definitely slow-paced, the build-up may have taken a little too long, because by the time the relationship develops, most of the film has passed. But in the meanwhile, we explore the sights and sounds of rural Italy, which is utterly glorious. The language and cultural exchange is exquisite and Elio's parents are to be hailed as truly inspiring. It is bittersweet, yet realistic.
From denial and hatred, to jealousy and love, Elio is portrayed as a clearly complex teenager in the sense that he is more withdrawn than his peers, infatuated with his music. But it is soon obvious why he feels like an outsider and misunderstood. On the other hand, Oliver, a charming and confident archaeologist, appears to be playing games at first only to reveal his mutual love in return. The last scene is heartbreaking when the reality dawns on them both.
The first half is definitely slow-paced, the build-up may have taken a little too long, because by the time the relationship develops, most of the film has passed. But in the meanwhile, we explore the sights and sounds of rural Italy, which is utterly glorious. The language and cultural exchange is exquisite and Elio's parents are to be hailed as truly inspiring. It is bittersweet, yet realistic.
Merissa (13100 KP) rated Smoke & Mirrors (THIRDS #7) in Books
Jun 27, 2017
Smoke & Mirrors (THIRDS #7) by Charlie Cochet
O.M.G.!!! If you are going to read Smoke and Mirrors, and you've followed the series so far, then be prepared for an emotional ride. Seriously, I think I have shed more tears during this part of the story than for any other instalment! The feels, people, the feels! Sloane and Dex have had a tumultuous relationship but things seem to have calmed down. Unfortunately, you know that with all the secrets that are coming out, that things will definitely rock the boat.
This book is simply amazing, with classic Dexisms throughout (I loved his conversation with Hudson!), but at the same time, absolutely heartbreaking. This book holds the answers to some questions that Dex hadn't even allowed himself to ask. Time moves on, but hurt can remain. So many things I want to talk about, but I don't want to ruin the surprise for anyone else, so instead, I will just say that this book is simply outstanding, and I loved every moment - even if my eyes are now red-rimmed!
Exceedingly well written once again, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. Definitely recommended by me, as well a box of tissues! If you're anything like me, you're going to need them!
* Verified Purchase ~ April 2017 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This book is simply amazing, with classic Dexisms throughout (I loved his conversation with Hudson!), but at the same time, absolutely heartbreaking. This book holds the answers to some questions that Dex hadn't even allowed himself to ask. Time moves on, but hurt can remain. So many things I want to talk about, but I don't want to ruin the surprise for anyone else, so instead, I will just say that this book is simply outstanding, and I loved every moment - even if my eyes are now red-rimmed!
Exceedingly well written once again, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. Definitely recommended by me, as well a box of tissues! If you're anything like me, you're going to need them!
* Verified Purchase ~ April 2017 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Fails to Disappoint :)
This book certainly deserves its status as an essential modern classic.
It provides a somewhat sinister feel, but remains thought provoking. The overall story is short, but it incorporates such strong ideas that it makes up for it being a short read. Not only is it enjoyable, but it also serves to educate the reader on the dangers of attempting a utopian society. Its concept of why it is important to retain human memories – even the bad – in order that wisdom can exist, adds to the fascinating factor.
This book would be great to spur discussion and introspection. Although fans of contemporary dystopian novels will be sure to love this series, the book isn't solely the story of a depressing utopia. It's mainly the story of the relationship between the main characters: the Giver, Jonas, and... I won't say her name, and of course, the baby Gabe. This book is a more of a mystery in which things don't much get answered- they're left to linger. That's part of the beauty and hopefulness in this book! Just read the damn book, then call me.
You won't be disappointed if you read it, because it's an enjoyable read. It contains a great plot, the community is interesting, and the ending is fantastic and JUST a little ambiguous!-- cool!
It provides a somewhat sinister feel, but remains thought provoking. The overall story is short, but it incorporates such strong ideas that it makes up for it being a short read. Not only is it enjoyable, but it also serves to educate the reader on the dangers of attempting a utopian society. Its concept of why it is important to retain human memories – even the bad – in order that wisdom can exist, adds to the fascinating factor.
This book would be great to spur discussion and introspection. Although fans of contemporary dystopian novels will be sure to love this series, the book isn't solely the story of a depressing utopia. It's mainly the story of the relationship between the main characters: the Giver, Jonas, and... I won't say her name, and of course, the baby Gabe. This book is a more of a mystery in which things don't much get answered- they're left to linger. That's part of the beauty and hopefulness in this book! Just read the damn book, then call me.
You won't be disappointed if you read it, because it's an enjoyable read. It contains a great plot, the community is interesting, and the ending is fantastic and JUST a little ambiguous!-- cool!
KerysJayne Draganova (21 KP) rated Resistance is futile in Books
Jan 13, 2018 (Updated Jan 14, 2018)
Majority of the characters, especially the main (1 more)
Comedic style of writing
Luke (1 more)
The romance aspect
A decent sci-fi Rom-com hybrid.
First of let me just say, this is the type of book that makes you look incredibly silly when reading it in public. It had me laughing until I couldn't breathe, and thanking my lucky stars that I read it in the comfort of my own home.
The characters in Colgan's book are a breath of fresh air: smart, just the right amount of geeky, and incredibly funny. The mix of the different characters and personalities within the group works perfectly, and as I said they have you crying with laughter. Connie is a fantastic main character: interesting, smart and witty, and I loved reading the adventures from her point of view.
However, I was disappointed with the romance aspect of this book, I didn't find the relationship between Connie and Luke to be believable, and I just couldn't get behind Luke as a character as a whole. I didn't find his character very compelling, and I felt the author went further into the development of other smaller characters than Luke, considering he is supposed to be quite an important part of the story line.
Overall though the characters in this book are so lovable and funny it definitely makes the book worth a read.
The characters in Colgan's book are a breath of fresh air: smart, just the right amount of geeky, and incredibly funny. The mix of the different characters and personalities within the group works perfectly, and as I said they have you crying with laughter. Connie is a fantastic main character: interesting, smart and witty, and I loved reading the adventures from her point of view.
However, I was disappointed with the romance aspect of this book, I didn't find the relationship between Connie and Luke to be believable, and I just couldn't get behind Luke as a character as a whole. I didn't find his character very compelling, and I felt the author went further into the development of other smaller characters than Luke, considering he is supposed to be quite an important part of the story line.
Overall though the characters in this book are so lovable and funny it definitely makes the book worth a read.
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1 (2010) in Movies
Jan 14, 2018
One of the better HP adaptations
I have a bit of an issue with the Harry Potter films in general. I'm grateful that they've at least brought the wizarding world onto the big screen, I just think it's a shame that some of them are very poor versions of the books. Part 1 of the Deathly Hallows is a fairly decent adaptation, but even still it's very frustrating to see how much has been missed out. My other half even commented asking if Dobby had a bigger part in the books, as it was obvious even to him as a non book reader that storylines from the books had been implied in the films rather than actually featured.
Still despite all that, it is definitely one of the better in the series and I like how dark the series has gone. The acting is great from the seasoned cast, but at little hit and miss from the younger actors. The effects are fairly good too if a little overused..
I have a love hate relationship with the HP films. I love the sets and how the wizarding world has been brought to life - without these films we wouldn't have the studios in London and the amazing world in Universal Florida. It's just a shame so much of the back story and detail from the books has been left out.
Still despite all that, it is definitely one of the better in the series and I like how dark the series has gone. The acting is great from the seasoned cast, but at little hit and miss from the younger actors. The effects are fairly good too if a little overused..
I have a love hate relationship with the HP films. I love the sets and how the wizarding world has been brought to life - without these films we wouldn't have the studios in London and the amazing world in Universal Florida. It's just a shame so much of the back story and detail from the books has been left out.
Alison Pink (7 KP) rated The Mark of Athena in Books
Jan 15, 2018
Book Three in the Heroes of Olympus series did not disappoint! I have to admit that out of all Rick Riordan's series this has been my least favorite, but I really enjoyed this installment. It is literally a cliffhanger...if that cliff is hanging over Tartarus & is under a parking lot in Rome that is!
All the characters have matured nicely and I have to say that was a pleasant surprise. Percy & Annabeth's relationship has followed the same line. But despite all the characters in the book, I have to say my favorite is Leo Valdez; the brainiac of the demigods. He was very funny in this book & easy to like. His personality was developed a lot more throughout this story so the reader gets to know him on another level.
As for the plot, a war breaks out between the Greek & Roman camps thanks to some nasty spirits taking over Leo. Despite this, the 7 demigods & Coach Hedge, the satyr, must embark on a mission to unite the 2 camps & prevent Gaea & her giants from destroying the world. Needless to say, it isn't easy & they run amok of quite a few gods & monsters on the way.
I am really looking forward to seeing how Riordan wraps up this series!! I have a sinking feeling that it may be the end of Percy Jackson though...
All the characters have matured nicely and I have to say that was a pleasant surprise. Percy & Annabeth's relationship has followed the same line. But despite all the characters in the book, I have to say my favorite is Leo Valdez; the brainiac of the demigods. He was very funny in this book & easy to like. His personality was developed a lot more throughout this story so the reader gets to know him on another level.
As for the plot, a war breaks out between the Greek & Roman camps thanks to some nasty spirits taking over Leo. Despite this, the 7 demigods & Coach Hedge, the satyr, must embark on a mission to unite the 2 camps & prevent Gaea & her giants from destroying the world. Needless to say, it isn't easy & they run amok of quite a few gods & monsters on the way.
I am really looking forward to seeing how Riordan wraps up this series!! I have a sinking feeling that it may be the end of Percy Jackson though...
Merissa (13100 KP) rated The Iron Butterfly (Iron Butterfly #1) in Books
Aug 9, 2017
The Iron Butterfly (Iron Butterfly #1) by Chanda Hahn
This book throws you straight in with the action as you are immediately in a cell with Thalia as she tries to recover from the latest round on a torture machine. She has no memories of anything before her life locked up.
Through the help of another prisoner she is able to escape and then with the help of another pair of characters, she manages to put some distance between herself and where she was being held.
This story will lead you on a twisted journey as you travel with Thalia as she tries to understand who or what she is, what's been done to her and how she tries to deal with and live with the consequences.
There are the two male leads in this, one is a golden boy and one is dark and brooding. Her relationship with both of these could have gone into a bit more detail but even on the information given, Joss is solid but Kael's the guy for me. Actually, out of all of them, I think I'd stick with Faraway!
If you like fantasy and want to try something a little bit different, then why not try this one.
* Verified Purchase ~ February 2013
Reviewed on Goodreads ~ November 2013 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Through the help of another prisoner she is able to escape and then with the help of another pair of characters, she manages to put some distance between herself and where she was being held.
This story will lead you on a twisted journey as you travel with Thalia as she tries to understand who or what she is, what's been done to her and how she tries to deal with and live with the consequences.
There are the two male leads in this, one is a golden boy and one is dark and brooding. Her relationship with both of these could have gone into a bit more detail but even on the information given, Joss is solid but Kael's the guy for me. Actually, out of all of them, I think I'd stick with Faraway!
If you like fantasy and want to try something a little bit different, then why not try this one.
* Verified Purchase ~ February 2013
Reviewed on Goodreads ~ November 2013 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Merissa (13100 KP) rated Soul of Discretion in Books
May 2, 2018
Soul of Discretion by Susan Mac Nicol & M. Tasia
Soul of Discretion is written by both Susan Mac Nicol and M. Tasia. Ms Mac Nicol's work I have read and enjoyed before, but I think Ms Tasia's work is new to me.
In a nutshell, this story is about a man finding out his friend has been stealing from him, so he goes to confront him. Things take a darker turn when his friend is murdered, and it looks like the mob is involved. On a lighter note, the one night stand turns out to be a repeat, and in the RCMP.
I really liked this story. It has enough twists and turns to keep the reader's attention, whilst not drowning in detail. The relationship between the two MCs moves fast, but it is only right it does so. They work very well together, complementing each other in nearly every aspect. There is a great supporting cast, with Peter and Steph being amongst my personal favourites.
With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, this book was a delight from start to finish. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
In a nutshell, this story is about a man finding out his friend has been stealing from him, so he goes to confront him. Things take a darker turn when his friend is murdered, and it looks like the mob is involved. On a lighter note, the one night stand turns out to be a repeat, and in the RCMP.
I really liked this story. It has enough twists and turns to keep the reader's attention, whilst not drowning in detail. The relationship between the two MCs moves fast, but it is only right it does so. They work very well together, complementing each other in nearly every aspect. There is a great supporting cast, with Peter and Steph being amongst my personal favourites.
With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, this book was a delight from start to finish. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Midge (525 KP) rated Star Collector Volume 1 in Books
Feb 23, 2019
Great Story And Fantastic Artwork!
This is the first time I have read any Manga and this particular comic/graphic appealed to me because of the fascinating description and I wanted to try something new that sounded entertaining.
I am very glad I chose “Star Collector” because it was so enjoyable to read. I think it was a great first choice for trying this genre because it had a straightforward story-line, which made it no bother for me to master the Manga style which needs to be read from right to left.
For me, the story was tender and sweet and the artwork was absolutely gorgeous. I could feel the characters’ emotions and each one had their own individuality and distinctiveness.
I can’t say much else on the quality of the artwork since I am not at all artistic but I did appreciate how the story progressed through the artwork as well as the dialogue.
I will definitely be reading Volume 2 in this series to see how their relationship progresses.
I would recommend this story to anyone who wants to try Manga and is after a quick and light-hearted read.
{Thank you to NetGalley and Diamond Book Distributors for the free copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
I am very glad I chose “Star Collector” because it was so enjoyable to read. I think it was a great first choice for trying this genre because it had a straightforward story-line, which made it no bother for me to master the Manga style which needs to be read from right to left.
For me, the story was tender and sweet and the artwork was absolutely gorgeous. I could feel the characters’ emotions and each one had their own individuality and distinctiveness.
I can’t say much else on the quality of the artwork since I am not at all artistic but I did appreciate how the story progressed through the artwork as well as the dialogue.
I will definitely be reading Volume 2 in this series to see how their relationship progresses.
I would recommend this story to anyone who wants to try Manga and is after a quick and light-hearted read.
{Thank you to NetGalley and Diamond Book Distributors for the free copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
Sam (228 KP) rated Venom (2018) in Movies
Mar 9, 2019
Action (2 more)
Realistic CGI
Amazing Acting
Weak Ending (1 more)
Missing Something
Great Start, Great Action, Weak Finish
I absolutely loved this film up until the last half hour. This film had a strong beginning, strong middle, and a weak ending. The action scenes were absolutely beautiful and watching Brock, the main character, slowly getting taken over by this monster (Venom) was a masterpiece of acting. I loved watching them interact together, however their relationship went from being absolutely terrifying and brilliant to quickly fast formed friends. I would have liked to see this transition better rather than the fast switch that took place. Considering this to be a key part within the formation of the film I can't in good conscious give it more than rate it at a 7/10 as it made the ending weak and clunky. If this transition was more smooth and played out then I would rate it much higher. In my opinion, Venom is a monster bent on taking over the planet, however in this film he went from villianous to superhero in the matter of minutes. If the time had been taken to smooth out these kinks the film would have been perfect. This being said the action scenes were outstanding, the acting beautiful, and the CGI which played heavily given the film was actually very well done.