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Truth (Finding Anna, #3)
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This book was reviewed as part of a blog tour on Lily Loves Indie, and whilst there's a snippet of the review below, the whole review can be found here http://lilylovesindie.co.uk/?p=188

The third book in the Finding Anna series is much better than the second, and it carries on pretty much where 'Need' left off. I found this a much more enjoyable read, and much easier to get into as well. There were still niggles, personally, I feel the three books could have quite easily been put into two, without sacrificing any of the story, however it definitely picked up this time round and it felt like Hayes had really found her stride.

The plot seems much more pacy, more driven and more developed in this book, and it reads so much better for it. Although there are areas where it is drawn out slightly more than I would like, it picks up quickly and is immensely difficult to put down at times. The different threads of the story that are drawn together are well developed in their own right, but together they add so many more dynamics and layers to the story. There's Brianna's developing confidence, her relationship with Stephan, the investigation into Ian and her father, it all just culminates beautifully into a wonderful read with a dramatic ending.

So I touched on it there, but the ending is really high paced, full of tension and a great way to end the book. It leaves you literally waiting on tenterhooks for more, and when you realise that's all you're getting, it's a huge feeling of loss. . .
  
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ClareR (5721 KP) rated Body of Stars in Books

Jan 16, 2024  
Body of Stars
Body of Stars
Laura Maylene Walter | 2021 | Dystopia, Fiction & Poetry, Science Fiction/Fantasy
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Body of Stars is an enjoyable YA novel set in the near future. This is a world where the markings on a woman’s body predict the future for not only themselves, but for their families as well.

Instead of this phenomenon giving women autonomy over their own lives, it seems that it’s the same old story. Their bodies are a commodity, mapped out by a government organisation, checked over by their fathers when their markings change during puberty. They are warned not to show themselves off or be by themselves, lest men can’t control themselves as they’re driven wild with lust. So far, so stereotypical.

Celeste Morton is excited by the prospect of this transition, and her brother Miles is desperate to practice his interpretation skills on his sister. But when Celeste transitions, a terrible fate is revealed. And in a desperate bid to keep this a secret, Celeste experiences the worst thing that can happen to a changeling.

I have to admit to being very frustrated whilst reading this. There’s nothing feminist about this story - there is a good argument for why feminism is necessary though. Misogyny is rife in the world of this book! To be honest, the story could have run in exactly the same direction without the need for freckles, moles and other markings. It was depressing that even in an alternative near future, women would be experiencing the same restrictions and abuse that so many live through today.

This was a novel that I loved to hate - the frustration was immense! Do I recommend it? Well yes, but be prepared for the deep breathing, calming exercises that you’ll need!
  
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Dean (6926 KP) rated Joker (2019) in Movies

Oct 10, 2019 (Updated Oct 10, 2019)  
Joker (2019)
Joker (2019)
2019 | Crime, Drama
Joaquin Phoenix (2 more)
Great cinematography
A realistic origin story
Send in the Clowns
I've been looking forward to this since seeing the Trailers a while ago. Also the fact that it appears to be a dark, gritty more realistic origin story. Looking and feeling more like a film set in our society, rather than Gotham city. There are enough hints and elements to the film to give it the DC universe setting. It was nice to see these touches in the film.
This film won't be for everyone. It is a slow burner, character driven piece with little action to speak of. It does showcase Joaquin Phoenix talents though in a performance that must make him the favourite for the Best Actor Oscar. It's a dark film, showing his descent into madness, not coping with his mental illness with a bleak look at his past as well. Set against a backdrop of civil unrest in the city. There are obvious comparisons with @Taxi Driver (1976) which had similar themes. It's also quite violent in places but I think compared to many other films it's no worse than you would expect.
Overall I think this could be a modern classic and definitely deserves high praise for the cinematography, which is very artistically shot and the acting. It's Phoenix's portrayal of Joker that this film will be remembered for.