graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated The Vanishing of Katharina Linden in Books
Feb 15, 2019
My interest in this book was <i>piqued</i> when I saw it described as a "charming horror novel," and while that isn't totally accurate, charming it is, horror it isn't, I very much enjoyed the book. Helen Grant has such an ease about her writing that I find it hard to believe this is her first novel. Her descriptions of Bad Münstereifel and its inhabitants are key to the book and provided most of the atmosphere; I could quite easily visualize everything and everyone in this little town. Pia was a realistic and relatable narrator who kept the story going at a fairly brisk pace. Sometimes she used words that I don't think an eleven-year-old would, but since the book is told by adult Pia reminiscing back, I'm willing to let that pass. The legends of this small town are wonderfully interwoven through the story and add an extra element of childhood innocence to the book. Some may find the mystery obvious or weak, but I don't think the mystery is reason for this book, it's Pia at a major point in her life, with major events happening that affect her and in turn, how she deals with them. Parts of the book are chilling, light, quiet, humorous, thoughtful, predictable, surprising, absorbing, and more, but altogether it is a book that impressed me.
4.5 stars
Received for review through the Amazon Vine program.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bad_M%C3%BCnstereifel
Brandy Bentley (3 KP) rated Complicated in Books
Jan 21, 2018
Hixon Drake and Greta Dare begin their story with misunderstanding and hurt feelings. After a night together, Hix brushes Greta off like a one night stand and drives off. Greta, a kind-hearted and generous soul, does not know how to hold a grudge, though, so when Hix gets another chance, she lets him in.
Both characters have issues: Hix is a newly single dad with a slightly unstable ex-wife. Greta is responsible for the care of her mentally disabled younger brother (made so by an accident caused by their self-involved mother.) Both have to overcome their hang-ups and interfering third parties in order to finally find their HEA.
Outside of family drama, Hix is the county sheriff investigating a murder in a town that hasn't had a homicide in decades. Greta finds herself attacked by a stalker, which leads her to seek Hix's help.
Ashley is well known in the romance world for crafting swoonworthy alpha heroes and kickass heroines. Complicated is one of her rare standalones, and is not connected to any of her other books.
I really, really LIKED this book, but I can't say that I LOVED it. I'm not sure if I can put my finger on why. I am a huge KA fan, and LOVE many of her books; most of which I've read more than once.
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Phillip McSween (751 KP) rated Low Tide (2019) in Movies
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Acting: 9
Beginning: 8
The beginning is harrowing as we are immediately thrown into the consequences of the friends’ actions. As they make their escape through their sleepy town, I was intrigued by what was to come. I have seen better starts, but I was definitely impressed here.
Characters: 10
Cinematography/Visuals: 10
Director Kevin McMullin captures the vibe of a small town perfectly. As two of the characters ride a ferris wheel above the heights of a carnival, bright colors pop through the dull fog coming off the ocean. Shots like this and many more set the scene perfectly for the story.
Conflict: 10
Entertainment Value: 8
Memorability: 7
While the movie isn’t chocked full of historic moments, there are enough high points in Low Tide to leave a lasting impact. I enjoyed the thrill ride I was taken on as I didn’t really have any idea how things would end up. The story is one I enjoyed and has a solid replay value.
Pace: 7
Plot: 8
Resolution: 5
Overall: 82
Despite its slow moments in spots, Low Tide has a number of high points that drive the overall excitement of the story. I didn’t know what to expect when I started the movie but was ultimately impressed by how well it was put together. I definitely recommend giving this one a watch on Amazon Prime.
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