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The Lady from the Sea
Jules Wright and Thomas Zanon-Larcher
Book
Inspired by Henrik Ibsen's The Lady from the Sea, the photographer Thomas Zanon-Larcher and theatre...
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Catherine House in Books
May 21, 2020
This book totally stressed me out. I usually love a good boarding school novel (though technically these students are in their college years), but this was mostly just a bunch of kids drinking and occasionally attending weird classes. Why are there never normal people at these schools who just do their work and don't drink?
Anyway, besides that pet peeve, this book was incredibly slow and nothing ever happened. This was mostly a story about a lot of frivolous kids at school with some weird scientific plasma stuff thrown in. It was incredibly difficult to care about Ines for most of the book--or any of the other characters--and truly, most of the plot. I thought about abandoning the book, but wanted to see if anything interesting ever happened with the scientific aspect. (No, not really.) The book sells itself as a mysterious ride, but it's more a character-driven novel. About lackluster, annoying characters.
Now the last third was fairly enjoyable and somehow an irritating book with eh characters had a satisfying ending, but getting there was just painful. Thomas is a good writer and this is no doubt one of those smart books where not much happens that book critics will worship, but it didn't really work for me. 2.5 stars.
Anyway, besides that pet peeve, this book was incredibly slow and nothing ever happened. This was mostly a story about a lot of frivolous kids at school with some weird scientific plasma stuff thrown in. It was incredibly difficult to care about Ines for most of the book--or any of the other characters--and truly, most of the plot. I thought about abandoning the book, but wanted to see if anything interesting ever happened with the scientific aspect. (No, not really.) The book sells itself as a mysterious ride, but it's more a character-driven novel. About lackluster, annoying characters.
Now the last third was fairly enjoyable and somehow an irritating book with eh characters had a satisfying ending, but getting there was just painful. Thomas is a good writer and this is no doubt one of those smart books where not much happens that book critics will worship, but it didn't really work for me. 2.5 stars.
Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood and the Prison of Belief
9.0
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Book
The New York Times bestseller hailed as 'masterful' by The Sunday Times, 'Devastating' by the Daily...
The End of the Ocean
8.3
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Book
From the author of the number one international bestseller The History of Bees, a captivating new...
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2165 KP) rated Final Cut in Books
Nov 16, 2023
Deadly First Day on Set
Costumer Joey Jessop is happy to be working on the latest big budget superhero movie. However, the first day gets off to a rocky start with the director showing how horrible he can be, an electrical accident, and then a murder. Joey is the person to find the victim, the second assistant director, who just happens to be dating Joey’s ex. With Joey a person of interest, can she figure out what really happened?
Since I love the entertainment industry, this book immediately caught my attention. We get behind the scenes information, sometimes a bit too much, but I did love the Southern California and entertainment settings overall. The plot needed more focus, with the story being driven more by events than Joey’s investigation, which lead us to a climax that was weak on one hand and suspenseful on the other. Several aspects of the plot don’t really get resolved. There is a strong Me Too storyline, and I appreciated that it focused on Joey and her response to it all. Joey and several of main characters came to life for me, and I did like spending time with them. In the end, this one was a mixed bag for me.
Since I love the entertainment industry, this book immediately caught my attention. We get behind the scenes information, sometimes a bit too much, but I did love the Southern California and entertainment settings overall. The plot needed more focus, with the story being driven more by events than Joey’s investigation, which lead us to a climax that was weak on one hand and suspenseful on the other. Several aspects of the plot don’t really get resolved. There is a strong Me Too storyline, and I appreciated that it focused on Joey and her response to it all. Joey and several of main characters came to life for me, and I did like spending time with them. In the end, this one was a mixed bag for me.
ClareR (5674 KP) rated The Lock Up in Books
May 15, 2023
The fact that I haven’t read the previous three books in this series didn’t mean that I enjoyed it any less. It’s a character driven murder mystery, with lots of background of the pathologist, Quirke. His wife died in the last book, and whilst it’s unclear whether this is a thing with him in other books, he’s most certainly an alcoholic in THIS book. He’s deeply unhappy.
The mystery however, centres around the death of a young Jewish woman, found in her car in a lock up. DI Strafford is called in to solve the case, which becomes more complicated ass the story goes on. The beginning of the book is about a young man travelling into the mountains in Germany to escape the allies. This seems unconnected to begin with,but of course it isn’t!
The Church very much makes it’s presence felt, and there are obstacles put in the way of Strafford and Quirke solving this case.
I really liked this, and very much appreciated the descriptions of Strafford, Quirke and the other characters too. It added to the sense of time and place.
Yet another book that I’m very glad that I picked up on The Pigeonhole!
The mystery however, centres around the death of a young Jewish woman, found in her car in a lock up. DI Strafford is called in to solve the case, which becomes more complicated ass the story goes on. The beginning of the book is about a young man travelling into the mountains in Germany to escape the allies. This seems unconnected to begin with,but of course it isn’t!
The Church very much makes it’s presence felt, and there are obstacles put in the way of Strafford and Quirke solving this case.
I really liked this, and very much appreciated the descriptions of Strafford, Quirke and the other characters too. It added to the sense of time and place.
Yet another book that I’m very glad that I picked up on The Pigeonhole!
Lindsay (1717 KP) rated Evergreen Forevermore in Books
Jun 16, 2024
Evergreen Forevermore is a captivating tale set in the picturesque hometown of Whitecap. It is a book brimming with mystery and intrigue. We are introduced to a young man named John Devore, who, driven by a deep sense of duty, becomes a paramedic to serve his community.
We are introduced to a judge who is a friend of John's. We meet a young woman named Katherine who needs to learn a few things about people. The story starts in a shelter in New York, where John volunteers and has met some friends along the way.
John and the Judge share a unique bond, a friendship that transcends their professional lives. The Judge, intrigued by John's tales of his hometown, expresses a desire to visit Whitecap. Will this wish be fulfilled? This book, with its rich tapestry of characters, holds the answer.
John sees a man working on the streets and wonders about him. His grandfather tells him his name is Fred Bates. John appears to start a conversation with Fred and introduces him. He also sees Fred Bates's interest in the new medic truck and wonders why. He finds a way to get Fred to work with him at the firehouse.
As the story goes on, there seems to be secrecy and mystery around every door. What are these mysteries, and will John be able to help? The story begins when the Judge has to sentence a woman he meets. Will a change of scenery and learning about others help the young woman? What about her father? There is more to the plot than just learning about expectations and how others feel. The young woman needs an attitude change or will be in much more trouble if she continues her path. Will her father understand that he needs to let his daughter learn the hard lessons and stand on her own to two feet?
Judge James Wilcox, a pivotal character, embarks on a journey with John to uncover long-awaited hidden secrets. Will his efforts lead to a long-overdue family reunion for Katherine and Fred? Will a sweet handyman, be haunted by the memory of his lost and beloved wife, find closure? Fred, a veteran, is finally recognized for his bravery. Will he be able to forgive himself for the past?
This book is heartwarming. I really enjoyed it. I love how this ends. The characters are my favorite. However, each main character's story is involved in the other's. It is more about a story about a town and town folk than just a personal story. TA Cline does a wonderfully good job on this. I recommend this book and these other two books as well. This one is a top favorite. I would like to know if this book can be beaten from the top of the list.
This book is a treasure trove for those who seek a rollercoaster of emotions. This book is a must-read if you are a fan of heartfelt stories, mysteries that keep you on the edge of your seat, and the complexities of family dynamics. It skillfully weaves together a diverse cast of characters, including a veteran, each adding a unique flavor to the narrative.
We are introduced to a judge who is a friend of John's. We meet a young woman named Katherine who needs to learn a few things about people. The story starts in a shelter in New York, where John volunteers and has met some friends along the way.
John and the Judge share a unique bond, a friendship that transcends their professional lives. The Judge, intrigued by John's tales of his hometown, expresses a desire to visit Whitecap. Will this wish be fulfilled? This book, with its rich tapestry of characters, holds the answer.
John sees a man working on the streets and wonders about him. His grandfather tells him his name is Fred Bates. John appears to start a conversation with Fred and introduces him. He also sees Fred Bates's interest in the new medic truck and wonders why. He finds a way to get Fred to work with him at the firehouse.
As the story goes on, there seems to be secrecy and mystery around every door. What are these mysteries, and will John be able to help? The story begins when the Judge has to sentence a woman he meets. Will a change of scenery and learning about others help the young woman? What about her father? There is more to the plot than just learning about expectations and how others feel. The young woman needs an attitude change or will be in much more trouble if she continues her path. Will her father understand that he needs to let his daughter learn the hard lessons and stand on her own to two feet?
Judge James Wilcox, a pivotal character, embarks on a journey with John to uncover long-awaited hidden secrets. Will his efforts lead to a long-overdue family reunion for Katherine and Fred? Will a sweet handyman, be haunted by the memory of his lost and beloved wife, find closure? Fred, a veteran, is finally recognized for his bravery. Will he be able to forgive himself for the past?
This book is heartwarming. I really enjoyed it. I love how this ends. The characters are my favorite. However, each main character's story is involved in the other's. It is more about a story about a town and town folk than just a personal story. TA Cline does a wonderfully good job on this. I recommend this book and these other two books as well. This one is a top favorite. I would like to know if this book can be beaten from the top of the list.
This book is a treasure trove for those who seek a rollercoaster of emotions. This book is a must-read if you are a fan of heartfelt stories, mysteries that keep you on the edge of your seat, and the complexities of family dynamics. It skillfully weaves together a diverse cast of characters, including a veteran, each adding a unique flavor to the narrative.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Our Little Cruelties in Books
Dec 17, 2020
William, Brian, and Luke Drumm--three boys each born a year apart. William becomes a successful movie producer. Luke, a famous singer. And Brian, the steady middle brother, watches over careers, money, and their mother. But none of the brothers are as successful and happy as they appear--scarred by their traumatic childhood and their constant attempts to gain the attention of their mother. Now, the brothers are gathered together again: but only two are alive.
"All three of the Drumm brothers were at the funeral. But only one of them was in the coffin."
I made a lot of mistakes with this book. First, I thought I loved Liz Nugent, but then I realized I had her confused with another writer, and that I've never read any of her books. Next, I thought this would be more of a true, suspenseful mystery. It is not.
I feel bad, but this book was not for me. It started out slowly and just never got better. The plot drags on and on. While it is somewhat a mystery about a dead brother (which Drumm has died?), it's mostly a character-driven tale about three awful brothers. Because these three men are terrible and despicable, and I found it nearly impossible to become interested in them or their stories.
The book is told in chunks--from the perspective of each brother. Within their parts, their stories go back and forth in time. It's hard to keep track of the passing of time, especially as the book progresses.
This novel could provide in-depth perspective on mental illness and the impact our parents can have on our lives, but so much of that nuance gets lost in our characters and their abject hatefulness. There is little redemption to be had here. I had twinges of sympathies for the brothers, but, at times, I wasn't sure I would care if they were dead. They are truly evil sometimes.
Overall, this book just didn't work for me. I wasn't interested in the characters, and I wanted this to be a different type of story. Many others found this much more captivating and enjoyed the character driven style, so it may work better for you. 2 stars.
"All three of the Drumm brothers were at the funeral. But only one of them was in the coffin."
I made a lot of mistakes with this book. First, I thought I loved Liz Nugent, but then I realized I had her confused with another writer, and that I've never read any of her books. Next, I thought this would be more of a true, suspenseful mystery. It is not.
I feel bad, but this book was not for me. It started out slowly and just never got better. The plot drags on and on. While it is somewhat a mystery about a dead brother (which Drumm has died?), it's mostly a character-driven tale about three awful brothers. Because these three men are terrible and despicable, and I found it nearly impossible to become interested in them or their stories.
The book is told in chunks--from the perspective of each brother. Within their parts, their stories go back and forth in time. It's hard to keep track of the passing of time, especially as the book progresses.
This novel could provide in-depth perspective on mental illness and the impact our parents can have on our lives, but so much of that nuance gets lost in our characters and their abject hatefulness. There is little redemption to be had here. I had twinges of sympathies for the brothers, but, at times, I wasn't sure I would care if they were dead. They are truly evil sometimes.
Overall, this book just didn't work for me. I wasn't interested in the characters, and I wanted this to be a different type of story. Many others found this much more captivating and enjoyed the character driven style, so it may work better for you. 2 stars.
Neon Knights: 2086
7.0
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Tabletop Game
Do you have what it takes to join the Neon Knights? Join the XRL (Extreme Racing League) Tournament...
Daniel Boyd (1066 KP) rated Sniper Elite 4 in Video Games
Oct 10, 2017 (Updated Oct 10, 2017)
Satisfying gameplay. (2 more)
X-Ray camera.
Neat settings.
Generic characters and plot. (1 more)
Sub par graphics.
Hits It's Target
The fourth game in the third person WW2 shooter series, this game expands on the groundwork laid by it's predecessors. If you are coming off of a story driven game and are just looking for something satisfying and fun, then this is perfect for you. The story and characters are paper thin and the voice acting is all over the place in terms of quality, but that's not why you come to Sniper Elite, you come to watch a Nazi's brains explode from the sheer impact of your well placed bullet.
This is definitely the best game in the series in terms of it's gameplay systems. The control given to the player is clear and specific and if you miss a shot, you have no one to blame but yourself. The infamous X-ray cam makes a glorious return and it is even more detailed and brutal than in previous entries. No matter how many times you make a pair of Nazi testicles go pop from across a beautiful Italian town, it never gets old.
The other great thing about this game is it's various settings. There is an array of different maps that you work your way through during the game's campaign and each is unique and well thought out enough to give you a challenge, but also make you feel like a total bad-ass when you land a near impossible shot, in equal measure.
Although the landscapes are nice to run around in and function well in terms of matching with the game's gameplay style, the quality of the graphics itself isn't going to astonish anyone. We are around halfway through the PS4's life-cycle and this looks at best, like a late generation PS3 game. Again though, it doesn't really matter here, no one is buying Sniper Elite 4 for it's graphical quality.
Overall, there is a ton of fun to be had here. Don't think too much about the story and just enjoy systematically working your way through each various map, popping Nazi skulls as you go.
This is definitely the best game in the series in terms of it's gameplay systems. The control given to the player is clear and specific and if you miss a shot, you have no one to blame but yourself. The infamous X-ray cam makes a glorious return and it is even more detailed and brutal than in previous entries. No matter how many times you make a pair of Nazi testicles go pop from across a beautiful Italian town, it never gets old.
The other great thing about this game is it's various settings. There is an array of different maps that you work your way through during the game's campaign and each is unique and well thought out enough to give you a challenge, but also make you feel like a total bad-ass when you land a near impossible shot, in equal measure.
Although the landscapes are nice to run around in and function well in terms of matching with the game's gameplay style, the quality of the graphics itself isn't going to astonish anyone. We are around halfway through the PS4's life-cycle and this looks at best, like a late generation PS3 game. Again though, it doesn't really matter here, no one is buying Sniper Elite 4 for it's graphical quality.
Overall, there is a ton of fun to be had here. Don't think too much about the story and just enjoy systematically working your way through each various map, popping Nazi skulls as you go.