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Joe Goodhart (27 KP) rated Lady Mechanika Vol. 1: The Mystery of the Mechanical Corpse in Books
Nov 30, 2020
The steampunk genre has been, more or less, beaten into the ground. The market was flooded. From anthologies to original prose novels, there was a little sumpin' for everyone. Why, there was even a sub-genre to it that was steampunk romance! Wowz!
That said, I really didn't jump on that ride. I liked steampunk well enough, but like anything (yes, even McDonald's!), too much of a good thing is the opposite of good. Hell, even cosplay had embraced, making everything and then some incorporated with steampunk aspects!
However, when LADY MECHANIKA Vol 1 came up as $1.99 on the recent "Indie Sci-Fi" sale on Comixology, I thought I'd give a go. Yeah, there was steampunk, but there was some other things going on, and the art sure was purdy!
At first, I was worried that it would be a book not unlike many of the titles from Aspen Comics: lead females with waists that'd make supermodels jealous, meh stories, and even more meh characters. Fortunately, that was not the case with Joe Benitez's LADY MECHANIKA!
This first volume is comprised of the first 6-issue mini-series. It allows for some backstory, but just enough to keep you interested and coming back for more. It also introduces the two main protagonists: "Lady Mechanika" (not her real name, but a name bestowed upon her by the press) and Mr. Lewis, Lady M's "unofficial" ally and sidekick-of-sorts.
The story is fun, embracing all the aspects of steampunk. There is action and suspense, as well as an air of mystery. It is a series that is easy to get caught up in! So much so, that I went on and bought the other two volumes that were on sale, plus subscribed to the series!
Give it a go! If you have never read anything steampunk, this would be a great entry. And, if you already love the genre, well, then this will be a special treat! Enjoy!
That said, I really didn't jump on that ride. I liked steampunk well enough, but like anything (yes, even McDonald's!), too much of a good thing is the opposite of good. Hell, even cosplay had embraced, making everything and then some incorporated with steampunk aspects!
However, when LADY MECHANIKA Vol 1 came up as $1.99 on the recent "Indie Sci-Fi" sale on Comixology, I thought I'd give a go. Yeah, there was steampunk, but there was some other things going on, and the art sure was purdy!
At first, I was worried that it would be a book not unlike many of the titles from Aspen Comics: lead females with waists that'd make supermodels jealous, meh stories, and even more meh characters. Fortunately, that was not the case with Joe Benitez's LADY MECHANIKA!
This first volume is comprised of the first 6-issue mini-series. It allows for some backstory, but just enough to keep you interested and coming back for more. It also introduces the two main protagonists: "Lady Mechanika" (not her real name, but a name bestowed upon her by the press) and Mr. Lewis, Lady M's "unofficial" ally and sidekick-of-sorts.
The story is fun, embracing all the aspects of steampunk. There is action and suspense, as well as an air of mystery. It is a series that is easy to get caught up in! So much so, that I went on and bought the other two volumes that were on sale, plus subscribed to the series!
Give it a go! If you have never read anything steampunk, this would be a great entry. And, if you already love the genre, well, then this will be a special treat! Enjoy!
Emma @ The Movies (1786 KP) rated Grease (1978) in Movies
Sep 25, 2019
Good girl Sandy and greaser Danny fell in love over the summer. When they unexpectedly discover they're now in the same high school, will they be able to rekindle their romance?
If anyone asks me then I would always say that I've seen Grease... and I have. I can sing you all the songs, name you all the characters and relive some of the iconic clothing and scenery. But, as it turns out... I actually haven't. Not all the way through at least.
I sat there as the film started rolling and realised that, specifically, I've not seen the first half. I've seen the scenes with the songs in, probably on YouTube or the like, and I've definitely seen the end. I would imagine because I was flicking channels and seen it was on so I've watched it. I've never seen the cartoon opening, Danny and Sandy on the beach, or Sandy's appearance at Rydale High. Not from the original at least. I saw Grease Live, which while not quite the same was still enjoyable.
It would be almost impossible to sit through this one and not sing along, tap your toes, or have a smile creep onto your face. The screen was packed out, mainly with women, but it was nice to see quite a few guys along for the ride, some of their own accord and not dragged along by anyone. I could hear lots of low level singing, and out of the corner of my eye, some Grease Lightning arm dancing. Everyone truly enjoyed themselves.
One gentleman, who I know from Unlimited showings, told me how his mum brought him to see it when he was six and he's loved it ever since. It was such a lovely story. And I'm sure that many other people there had their own tales about seeing it when they were growing up.
I'm just always overjoyed by the dancing. But then you know me and a musical!
If anyone asks me then I would always say that I've seen Grease... and I have. I can sing you all the songs, name you all the characters and relive some of the iconic clothing and scenery. But, as it turns out... I actually haven't. Not all the way through at least.
I sat there as the film started rolling and realised that, specifically, I've not seen the first half. I've seen the scenes with the songs in, probably on YouTube or the like, and I've definitely seen the end. I would imagine because I was flicking channels and seen it was on so I've watched it. I've never seen the cartoon opening, Danny and Sandy on the beach, or Sandy's appearance at Rydale High. Not from the original at least. I saw Grease Live, which while not quite the same was still enjoyable.
It would be almost impossible to sit through this one and not sing along, tap your toes, or have a smile creep onto your face. The screen was packed out, mainly with women, but it was nice to see quite a few guys along for the ride, some of their own accord and not dragged along by anyone. I could hear lots of low level singing, and out of the corner of my eye, some Grease Lightning arm dancing. Everyone truly enjoyed themselves.
One gentleman, who I know from Unlimited showings, told me how his mum brought him to see it when he was six and he's loved it ever since. It was such a lovely story. And I'm sure that many other people there had their own tales about seeing it when they were growing up.
I'm just always overjoyed by the dancing. But then you know me and a musical!
Goddess in the Stacks (553 KP) rated Georgia Peaches and Other Forbidden Fruit in Books
Jun 11, 2019
This is a sweet, southern f/f romance. Set in Georgia, it deals with a lot of things young lesbians might have to deal with in the south - religion, bigotry, the stress of coming out or not coming out (or being forced back in the closet by a move to a small town)! It doesn't deal with any outright violence against our lesbian protagonists, and it just barely touches on drug use, eating disorders, and abusive relationships. Joanna has a mostly supportive family, even if they do ask her to hide her sexuality for her senior year in the new town. Jo reluctantly agrees to do so, but doesn't count on falling in love with a girl at her new school.
The book deals a LOT with religion and sexuality; Jo's father is a radio preacher, and she attends a baptist church in town with her stepmother and new grandparents. At one point - one of my favorite scenes in the book - she snaps, and calls out her classmates for thinking homosexuality is a sin, while they eat shellfish and have premarital sex.
I liked the book, but I'm not sure I'd recommend it. I grew up Christian; I'm familiar with all the concepts in the book, but rather than progress to a kinder, more loving version of Christianity, I left it behind altogether. I'm glad that some people can reconcile religion with progressive values, but I can't. So it might be a good book for some, but not for me.You can find all my reviews and more at http://goddessinthestacks.com
The book deals a LOT with religion and sexuality; Jo's father is a radio preacher, and she attends a baptist church in town with her stepmother and new grandparents. At one point - one of my favorite scenes in the book - she snaps, and calls out her classmates for thinking homosexuality is a sin, while they eat shellfish and have premarital sex.
I liked the book, but I'm not sure I'd recommend it. I grew up Christian; I'm familiar with all the concepts in the book, but rather than progress to a kinder, more loving version of Christianity, I left it behind altogether. I'm glad that some people can reconcile religion with progressive values, but I can't. So it might be a good book for some, but not for me.You can find all my reviews and more at http://goddessinthestacks.com
ArecRain (8 KP) rated A Woman Worth Ten Coppers (Shadowed Path, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I could not put this book down. From the first chapter, I was hooked. So many secrets surround Honus and Yim, and, as the reader, I wanted so much to figure out each and every one right along with the protagonists. However, I felt like nothing ever happened.
First off, the world seemed like such a cold, dark place. Everywhere Honus and Yim traveled, there was nothing but suffering and strife. I felt as if the entire world was just this bleak place with no hope of any kind. Even when the two protagonists reached a town filled with priests and merchant, I felt the utter lack of happiness. It was actually pretty depressing to read, especially when every person the two ran across was down on their luck in some way.
I was also frustrated with the secret keeping. I wanted so much to scream their secrets at each other that it was one of the things that drove me to keep reading. However, whenever any secrets were revealed, it was so anticlimactic that I was just happy it was finally out.
The more I read the novel, the more I couldn't wait for Honus and Yim to reach their destination. When they did, the suffering still continued. Then the novel ended so suddenly that I immediately bought the second one to see what happened.
If you are looking for any romance, look somewhere else. If you want some action, you won't find it hear. However, if you want a dark novel riddled with secrets and unknown futures, Morgan Howell delivers.
First off, the world seemed like such a cold, dark place. Everywhere Honus and Yim traveled, there was nothing but suffering and strife. I felt as if the entire world was just this bleak place with no hope of any kind. Even when the two protagonists reached a town filled with priests and merchant, I felt the utter lack of happiness. It was actually pretty depressing to read, especially when every person the two ran across was down on their luck in some way.
I was also frustrated with the secret keeping. I wanted so much to scream their secrets at each other that it was one of the things that drove me to keep reading. However, whenever any secrets were revealed, it was so anticlimactic that I was just happy it was finally out.
The more I read the novel, the more I couldn't wait for Honus and Yim to reach their destination. When they did, the suffering still continued. Then the novel ended so suddenly that I immediately bought the second one to see what happened.
If you are looking for any romance, look somewhere else. If you want some action, you won't find it hear. However, if you want a dark novel riddled with secrets and unknown futures, Morgan Howell delivers.
Pasha: My Story
Pasha Kovalev and Natasha Devon
Book
Pasha's talent and determination has taken him to some amazing places all around the world including...
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Happily Letter After in Books
Jan 5, 2021
This one starts with Sadie trying to figure out her next article when she receives a letter in the post from a young girl, Birdie, addressed to Santa, wanting him to send her some olives and some socks for her dad since she's beginning to think Santa isn't real. Falling under the little girls spell, Sadie sends the items to her in the post and receives a heart-wrenching reply that begins a cute back and forth between them. It's only weeks later that Sadie finds herself in Birdie's neighbourhood and unwittingly finds herself being cast as the new dog trainer Birdie's dad has hired when she's caught outside their house. What follows is a crazy but lovely story of two people falling for each other.
I did really like this one. It was a slow going romance between them until about half way through but it was great and pulled at my heart strings. After that, when they became a couple, it was just equal part sweet and kinda hot. They were just really good together. I don't know how to put my feelings about them into words. I loved them.
I somehow knew that something was going to end up coming out about Sadie and Birdie, they just had that connection that gave you warm and fuzzies but it did still take me a little by surprise when the actual thing came to light. I can't go into too much detail without spoiling it, just read it!
If you're a fan of these two author's then you should definitely read this.
I did really like this one. It was a slow going romance between them until about half way through but it was great and pulled at my heart strings. After that, when they became a couple, it was just equal part sweet and kinda hot. They were just really good together. I don't know how to put my feelings about them into words. I loved them.
I somehow knew that something was going to end up coming out about Sadie and Birdie, they just had that connection that gave you warm and fuzzies but it did still take me a little by surprise when the actual thing came to light. I can't go into too much detail without spoiling it, just read it!
If you're a fan of these two author's then you should definitely read this.
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Sin & Spirit (Demigods of San Francisco, #4) in Books
Jan 8, 2021
This review and more can be found at my blog https://aromancereadersreviews.blogspot.com
A Romance Reader's Reviews
This has been borrowed from the Kindle Unlimited Library.
Firstly I'll admit that it's been a while since I read the first three books in this series - and I believed that it was only going to be a trilogy, for some reason, so I had forgotten some of the details of this book but things were rehashed a little.
With Alexis and her small group now known by all the other Demigods in the world, they are thrown into a steep learning curve of dealing with politics and trying to learn how to use her powers for other things. There's also the fact that a Hades Demigod is trying to get their hands on Alexis, any means necessary.
A lot happened in this and, as mentioned above, I hadn't retained a lot of information about this series, so I was a little overwhelmed by all the characters. I quickly picked up who the Six were and Daisy and Mordecai.
I did enjoy this and should hopefully now remember enough for future books - book 5 is coming soon! - so I'm looking forward to reading them and seeing the results of that last chapter. I can see it's not going to go well and this group of amazing guys may end up fighting for their lives. Again.
This review is rather lacking but I have no way of saying more without giving away important plot points and that's just not fair.
A Romance Reader's Reviews
This has been borrowed from the Kindle Unlimited Library.
Firstly I'll admit that it's been a while since I read the first three books in this series - and I believed that it was only going to be a trilogy, for some reason, so I had forgotten some of the details of this book but things were rehashed a little.
With Alexis and her small group now known by all the other Demigods in the world, they are thrown into a steep learning curve of dealing with politics and trying to learn how to use her powers for other things. There's also the fact that a Hades Demigod is trying to get their hands on Alexis, any means necessary.
A lot happened in this and, as mentioned above, I hadn't retained a lot of information about this series, so I was a little overwhelmed by all the characters. I quickly picked up who the Six were and Daisy and Mordecai.
I did enjoy this and should hopefully now remember enough for future books - book 5 is coming soon! - so I'm looking forward to reading them and seeing the results of that last chapter. I can see it's not going to go well and this group of amazing guys may end up fighting for their lives. Again.
This review is rather lacking but I have no way of saying more without giving away important plot points and that's just not fair.
Eleanor Luhar (47 KP) rated Terminal (Virals 5) in Books
Jun 24, 2019
Terminal is the fifth book in the Virals series by Kathy Reichs. I know I've reviewed a ton of books in this series now, so I'll try to keep this one relatively short!
The Virals gang are always getting into trouble. But this time, they have multiple severe problems to worry about: a rival pack and, worse, some mysterious black-suited men asking questions about them. Which was worse? Losing against the Trinity, or becoming a bunch of lab rats for some secret government agency?
First, Tory and her friends need to find out the identities of their opponents. While the first two seem to be somewhat easy to find, the third member of the Trinity - the mystery girl - brings quite a shock to every member of the Viral pack.
As usual, the Reichs' bring tons of action, problem-solving and surprises in this Virals sequel. Nothing is certain: who are the Trinity? Who are these mystery detectives? Will this be their last adventure?
I said I'd keep this short, so I'll try to wrap this up now. I love this series. I've been looking forward to this book for ages, and I definitely was not disappointed. As well as the two main problems the pack is facing, Tory has another issue; multiple boys are after her, and she doesn't know who she wants. I love how this book has teenage humour to it, a little bit of romance - the perfect amount, in my opinion - and tons of unexpected plot twists. 4 stars for Terminal!
The Virals gang are always getting into trouble. But this time, they have multiple severe problems to worry about: a rival pack and, worse, some mysterious black-suited men asking questions about them. Which was worse? Losing against the Trinity, or becoming a bunch of lab rats for some secret government agency?
First, Tory and her friends need to find out the identities of their opponents. While the first two seem to be somewhat easy to find, the third member of the Trinity - the mystery girl - brings quite a shock to every member of the Viral pack.
As usual, the Reichs' bring tons of action, problem-solving and surprises in this Virals sequel. Nothing is certain: who are the Trinity? Who are these mystery detectives? Will this be their last adventure?
I said I'd keep this short, so I'll try to wrap this up now. I love this series. I've been looking forward to this book for ages, and I definitely was not disappointed. As well as the two main problems the pack is facing, Tory has another issue; multiple boys are after her, and she doesn't know who she wants. I love how this book has teenage humour to it, a little bit of romance - the perfect amount, in my opinion - and tons of unexpected plot twists. 4 stars for Terminal!
Morgan Sheppard (1029 KP) created a post
Feb 16, 2024
Debbiereadsbook (1757 KP) rated Playing the Game (Love Goals #2) in Books
Oct 18, 2025
lots of communication issues between these two!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Love Goals series, and I think it would help to read book 1, Playing for Keeps, before this one. Not strictly necessary, but more a personal recommendation .
I liked book 1, but I liked this one more!
I'm perhaps being picky, and for that I'm sorry but the book feelings are strong with this one!
So, here's the thing. I did like this more than book 1. I found the romance lacking in book one, was here, to some extent. The fact that Jonas and Adam choose to hide their relationship, made it difficult but that was their choice. The emotional connection is deeper, but Lord, is there a lot these guys didn't talk about! I get why for some things, but Adam's news?? He should not have kept that from Jonas.
I loved the new guys, not just Jonas. Tito and Noah are going to be a force to be watched, but not together. I have a feeling that Tito is putting on a front, and Noah is deeper than he lets on. Edi, too although he's not new, but he's fighting an internal battle to please his dad and his team. Not sure who is winning right now though!
I'm looking forward to Noah's story, he is next, but his significant other?? Not sure who that is yet!
creeping up to . .
4 stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in the Love Goals series, and I think it would help to read book 1, Playing for Keeps, before this one. Not strictly necessary, but more a personal recommendation .
I liked book 1, but I liked this one more!
I'm perhaps being picky, and for that I'm sorry but the book feelings are strong with this one!
So, here's the thing. I did like this more than book 1. I found the romance lacking in book one, was here, to some extent. The fact that Jonas and Adam choose to hide their relationship, made it difficult but that was their choice. The emotional connection is deeper, but Lord, is there a lot these guys didn't talk about! I get why for some things, but Adam's news?? He should not have kept that from Jonas.
I loved the new guys, not just Jonas. Tito and Noah are going to be a force to be watched, but not together. I have a feeling that Tito is putting on a front, and Noah is deeper than he lets on. Edi, too although he's not new, but he's fighting an internal battle to please his dad and his team. Not sure who is winning right now though!
I'm looking forward to Noah's story, he is next, but his significant other?? Not sure who that is yet!
creeping up to . .
4 stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere