Search
Search results
Isabel Smith (34 KP) rated The Neighbors in Books
Jul 4, 2018
You never know who will move in next door...
Hannah Mary McKinnon’s second novel, The Neighbors, is a domestic drama that explores past, lost, and present loves and what happens when they all collide.
They say to keep your friends close and your enemies closer, but what about your exes? Most people seem keen on keeping their exes as far away as possible. That’s a little hard to do when your ex happens to be your new next door neighbor. When Abby’s old flame, Liam, moves into the house next door she knows she’s in trouble. Both she and Liam are married to other people; however, the flame that existed between them has never fully burnt out. Thus, thing are bound to get messy.
Told in alternating points of view between Abby, her husband Nate, her teenage daughter Sarah, and Liam’s wife Nancy, this novel explores the traumatic events that have shaped Abby’s past and how they influence what is happening in the present day. The author doesn’t shy away from using heartbreak and dismay to highlight love affairs that have been and shouldn’t have been. At once suspenseful and sorrowful, The Neighbors explores the complexities of relationships and the consequences of withholding the truth from those you love.
They say to keep your friends close and your enemies closer, but what about your exes? Most people seem keen on keeping their exes as far away as possible. That’s a little hard to do when your ex happens to be your new next door neighbor. When Abby’s old flame, Liam, moves into the house next door she knows she’s in trouble. Both she and Liam are married to other people; however, the flame that existed between them has never fully burnt out. Thus, thing are bound to get messy.
Told in alternating points of view between Abby, her husband Nate, her teenage daughter Sarah, and Liam’s wife Nancy, this novel explores the traumatic events that have shaped Abby’s past and how they influence what is happening in the present day. The author doesn’t shy away from using heartbreak and dismay to highlight love affairs that have been and shouldn’t have been. At once suspenseful and sorrowful, The Neighbors explores the complexities of relationships and the consequences of withholding the truth from those you love.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated Hollywood Ending in Books
Aug 11, 2018
I Didn’t Want Hollywood Ending to End
It’s awards season in Hollywood and actress turned PI Day Anderson is celebrating when her boyfriend, Omari, is nomination for the Silver Sphere Award. However, after one of the parties he has to attend to mingle with the judges, Lily Davis is murdered. Lily was a publicist for the Silver Sphere Awards, and they have offered a reward for information leading to the arrest of her killer, so naturally Day jumps in to solve the case. This one seems much easier than her first murder case. Is she missing something?
Of course, she is, and the book soon involves plenty of complications that kept me reading as fast as I could. There are some fun twists before we reach the climax. Day and all her friends are back, and I loved spending more time with them and seeing how their relationships have changed. I also really enjoy the insider’s look at life in the Hollywood world. Everything is brought together by humor that had me laughing and smiling the entire way through the book. Those who loved the first book will be equally delighted with this one. And if you haven’t started this series yet, you need to do so today.
Of course, she is, and the book soon involves plenty of complications that kept me reading as fast as I could. There are some fun twists before we reach the climax. Day and all her friends are back, and I loved spending more time with them and seeing how their relationships have changed. I also really enjoy the insider’s look at life in the Hollywood world. Everything is brought together by humor that had me laughing and smiling the entire way through the book. Those who loved the first book will be equally delighted with this one. And if you haven’t started this series yet, you need to do so today.
Lindsay (1760 KP) rated Whispers at Seaside (Sweet with Heat: Seaside Summers #10) in Books
Aug 30, 2018
Book Tour: Whispers by SeaSide - Review Whispers by Seaside is a good book. Though for me it I think it was more romance than liked but it was not bad. It was written well. I enjoyed it involved the family but it seems like this was more Matt’s story then Mira.It had a lot to do with Matt and Mira getting together more. Matt is reconnecting with his family. He is also getting involved in Hagen's and Mira's lives more. I am hoping to see more of Matt building relationships with his family more. I know he was building a relationship with Hagen throughout the book then with Mira. I would have like to see the relationship of the build up with Mira throughout the book. I know we did see a part of it.We hear more about these wedding that are taking place in this book. I would have been nice to find out more about Matt and his family more and their loves ones. Mira seems to worry more about her future and about Hagen's.Will it last? Will Matt stay at his job or will he leave it? You will need to read the book to find out.
MoMoBookDiary (20 KP) rated Looking for Alex in Books
Oct 1, 2018
MoMo Book Diary is pleased to recommend this well written intriguing drama as a 4* emotional read.
Marian Dillon’s Looking for Alex grabbed me from the first time I read the synopsis and the plot had me hooked, to the point I sat up until the early hours reading to discover what happened next.
The story is about two friends Beth and Alex, their friendship and the dynamics of their relationship. I felt the flitting between present day and flashbacks to 1970s interrupted the flow of the story but the compelling characters held my interest. The author described the locations vividly and cleverly transports the reader through time and place.
I was gripped more by the present day chapters as the flashbacks were much slower paced.
The author sympathetically captures the turmoil of the teenage years and relationships formed in shaping our adult lives.
Great writing by a great author. When I was asked by Marian Dillon to read and review her book I was not aware of her or her books. I am thankful for the opportunity to read this very talented author and look forward to reading more of Marian Dillon.
Review also published on www.momobookdiary.com and www.amazon.co.uk
Marian Dillon’s Looking for Alex grabbed me from the first time I read the synopsis and the plot had me hooked, to the point I sat up until the early hours reading to discover what happened next.
The story is about two friends Beth and Alex, their friendship and the dynamics of their relationship. I felt the flitting between present day and flashbacks to 1970s interrupted the flow of the story but the compelling characters held my interest. The author described the locations vividly and cleverly transports the reader through time and place.
I was gripped more by the present day chapters as the flashbacks were much slower paced.
The author sympathetically captures the turmoil of the teenage years and relationships formed in shaping our adult lives.
Great writing by a great author. When I was asked by Marian Dillon to read and review her book I was not aware of her or her books. I am thankful for the opportunity to read this very talented author and look forward to reading more of Marian Dillon.
Review also published on www.momobookdiary.com and www.amazon.co.uk
ClareR (5879 KP) rated Aftershock (Blood Never Lies #2) in Books
Nov 4, 2018
Another great book from Dianna Hardy!!
The Eye of The Storm series and The Witching Pen series are both connected in this novel - you don’t have to have read them though, in order to understand what’s going on in this series. I’d recommend them anyway, just because they’re really good!!
Claire and Pete take Jasmine to the US to avoid the dangers of those who would do her harm in the U.K. To all intents and purposes, Claire and Pete ARE Jasmine’s parents, even though she is actually the daughter of Claire’s best friend, Beth, and her lover, Amil, a Trident (think: evil, genetically engineered werewolf on bad drugs - although he wasn’t really evil). They want to protect her, but it becomes increasingly difficult. Her true self, even though she’s only six years old, is beginning to be revealed due to a Supermoon. And it’s not what you think!
I love this series - I love all of Dianna Hardy’s writing. Not only is it well written, the relationships feel ‘real’, and there’s loads of real emotion and excitement (lots of ‘heart in mouth’ moments!). I do love a bit of paranormal/ urban fantasy, and this ticks all the boxes.
I can’t wait to see where this story goes in the next book!
Claire and Pete take Jasmine to the US to avoid the dangers of those who would do her harm in the U.K. To all intents and purposes, Claire and Pete ARE Jasmine’s parents, even though she is actually the daughter of Claire’s best friend, Beth, and her lover, Amil, a Trident (think: evil, genetically engineered werewolf on bad drugs - although he wasn’t really evil). They want to protect her, but it becomes increasingly difficult. Her true self, even though she’s only six years old, is beginning to be revealed due to a Supermoon. And it’s not what you think!
I love this series - I love all of Dianna Hardy’s writing. Not only is it well written, the relationships feel ‘real’, and there’s loads of real emotion and excitement (lots of ‘heart in mouth’ moments!). I do love a bit of paranormal/ urban fantasy, and this ticks all the boxes.
I can’t wait to see where this story goes in the next book!
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Dawn - Single by Mackenta in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Mackenta is a singer-songwriter based in Toronto, Canada. Not too long ago, she released a music video for her “Dawn” single.
“I’ve noticed a common theme throughout my past relationships. Both parties weren’t really ready for something serious yet boundaries weren’t established. Therefore, causing a lack of respect. ‘Dawn’ is about falling for someone that you know won’t work in the long run, but letting it happen anyways.” – Mackenta
The audiovisual finds Mackenta chilling at a skate park with her significant other, played by Ty Senoj.
‘Dawn’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and chill instrumentation flavored with a contemporary R&B aroma.
“I felt a lot of mixed emotions while writing ‘Dawn’. Nostalgia over the good memories and potential. Resentment about not being something more. Shame over allowing the situation to escalate so far. I’m telling it from my point of view, so there’s a sense of blame towards this person who is not mature enough to take things seriously. Also, realizing that I’m equally to blame for not drawing the line or understanding my own intentions. Ultimately, it’s about two people who both need to heal before they could ever be together.” – Mackenta
‘Dawn’ will be featured on Mackenta’s upcoming EP, which will drop later this year.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/mackenta-dawn/
“I’ve noticed a common theme throughout my past relationships. Both parties weren’t really ready for something serious yet boundaries weren’t established. Therefore, causing a lack of respect. ‘Dawn’ is about falling for someone that you know won’t work in the long run, but letting it happen anyways.” – Mackenta
The audiovisual finds Mackenta chilling at a skate park with her significant other, played by Ty Senoj.
‘Dawn’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and chill instrumentation flavored with a contemporary R&B aroma.
“I felt a lot of mixed emotions while writing ‘Dawn’. Nostalgia over the good memories and potential. Resentment about not being something more. Shame over allowing the situation to escalate so far. I’m telling it from my point of view, so there’s a sense of blame towards this person who is not mature enough to take things seriously. Also, realizing that I’m equally to blame for not drawing the line or understanding my own intentions. Ultimately, it’s about two people who both need to heal before they could ever be together.” – Mackenta
‘Dawn’ will be featured on Mackenta’s upcoming EP, which will drop later this year.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/mackenta-dawn/
ClareR (5879 KP) rated 99 Nights in Logar in Books
Jan 5, 2019
Just not for me...
I don't like giving low marks, but I really struggled with this book. The synopsis of the book was very interesting: 12 year old Marwand and his young cousins set off on a journey to find the family dog after it bites off Marwand's finger and escapes. They travel through a remote area of Afghanistan without any adults knowledge. So far so good. I liked the premise of the story.
Where I struggled was the style of writing. Pakhto and Farsi were used in the story, and I found it impossible to understand. Perhaps the end published book will have a glossary to refer to? Even the context where the language was used didn't help me. The family relationships and forms of address were complicates and I really couldn't keep track of who was who (could this be added into a glossary?). Finally, for me, the animal cruelty was pretty difficult to stomach.
Other readers may be able to see past this last point, and a glossary may well be added in the finished, published book, but I'm afraid this is just not for me personally.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book to read and review.
Where I struggled was the style of writing. Pakhto and Farsi were used in the story, and I found it impossible to understand. Perhaps the end published book will have a glossary to refer to? Even the context where the language was used didn't help me. The family relationships and forms of address were complicates and I really couldn't keep track of who was who (could this be added into a glossary?). Finally, for me, the animal cruelty was pretty difficult to stomach.
Other readers may be able to see past this last point, and a glossary may well be added in the finished, published book, but I'm afraid this is just not for me personally.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book to read and review.
Natalia (73 KP) rated Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe in Books
Jan 26, 2019
I cried. A lot.
It's been a little while since I've actually read the book since I've made myself sit in it for some time. Whether I felt an attachment to the themes that are explored in the book, or if I was just particularly emotional on the days I was reading it, I certainly think this was one of the most heartfelt books I've ever read.
My original attraction to the book came from hearing what a fantastic LGBT+ story it was - something that always catches my attention when I'm grasping for some kind of representation. It lived up to all of my expectations. It started a bit slow, seeing as I'm usually one for adventure and fantasy, but once I got into the book and the manner that Saenz writes, I couldn't put it down. As the heading might suggest, it certainly cried, especially towards the end of the book.
If you want a book that explores love and relationships, familial, platonic, and romantic, I would highly suggest picking up this book. Hopefully, people will read this book at the right time in their lives to be able to have this book effect them as positively as it has me.
My original attraction to the book came from hearing what a fantastic LGBT+ story it was - something that always catches my attention when I'm grasping for some kind of representation. It lived up to all of my expectations. It started a bit slow, seeing as I'm usually one for adventure and fantasy, but once I got into the book and the manner that Saenz writes, I couldn't put it down. As the heading might suggest, it certainly cried, especially towards the end of the book.
If you want a book that explores love and relationships, familial, platonic, and romantic, I would highly suggest picking up this book. Hopefully, people will read this book at the right time in their lives to be able to have this book effect them as positively as it has me.
Andy K (10823 KP) rated Bob Ross: The Happy Painter (2011) in Movies
Jul 7, 2019
Bob makes everyone happy!
I found this documentary on the Bob Ross phenomenon on Amazon Prime and it is worth checking out.
It tells you a lot of Bob's childhood, his relationships with his parents, children and wives and his rise to fame doing what he loved best, painting. His passion was demonstrating the "wet on wet" technique he learned at a young age and teaching it to others. He argued anyone could learn to paint quickly and easily using the techniques he was teaching.
The documentary shows some of his appearances on other TV programs of the time like Live with Regis and Kathie Lee, John Rivers and Phil Donahue. It also talks about his love of animals and how he used to treat and care for them.
One of the points mentioned I thought was interesting was only about 3% of the viewing audience tuned in and actually painted along with Bob. The vast majority just tuned in because they enjoyed his calming voice, big hair and his colorful vernacular.
What a great talent Bob Ross was and he died way too young. I still watch his show almost every night before I go to bed as it is a great way to end the day.
It tells you a lot of Bob's childhood, his relationships with his parents, children and wives and his rise to fame doing what he loved best, painting. His passion was demonstrating the "wet on wet" technique he learned at a young age and teaching it to others. He argued anyone could learn to paint quickly and easily using the techniques he was teaching.
The documentary shows some of his appearances on other TV programs of the time like Live with Regis and Kathie Lee, John Rivers and Phil Donahue. It also talks about his love of animals and how he used to treat and care for them.
One of the points mentioned I thought was interesting was only about 3% of the viewing audience tuned in and actually painted along with Bob. The vast majority just tuned in because they enjoyed his calming voice, big hair and his colorful vernacular.
What a great talent Bob Ross was and he died way too young. I still watch his show almost every night before I go to bed as it is a great way to end the day.