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AT (1676 KP) rated Congratulations, by the way in Books
Jan 8, 2019
This was George Saunders' convocation speech that he gave at Syracuse University. He speaks about kindness, and being kind throughout your lifetime. It was a nice speech, but I wasn't as moved as I thought I'd be. I think it's because I recently read Mr. Saunders' short story, Fox 8. Fox 8 was a million times more of an emotional event for me than this speech was.
ClareR (5561 KP) rated Glorious Exploits in Books
Feb 26, 2024
Glorious Exploits is hilarious, sad, horrific, brutal and, of course, glorious.
This is a story that shows the need for art even in a time of war and horror, and the importance of friendship, love, family and community.
Lampo, one of the two main characters leaps from the page in the way that he describes life in the city of Syracuse. He’s poor and uneducated, but he certainly has a lot to say! His venture with his best friend, Gelon, sees beyond the horrors that the Athenians must have committed - or perhaps he’s come to terms with what they’ve done - and he can see that their punishment doesn’t really fit their crime.
The Syracusans speak in the Irish vernacular, and what’s really strange, is that it doesn’t sound out of place (in my head, anyway!).
I laughed and cried whilst reading this. It really is a glorious read.
This is a story that shows the need for art even in a time of war and horror, and the importance of friendship, love, family and community.
Lampo, one of the two main characters leaps from the page in the way that he describes life in the city of Syracuse. He’s poor and uneducated, but he certainly has a lot to say! His venture with his best friend, Gelon, sees beyond the horrors that the Athenians must have committed - or perhaps he’s come to terms with what they’ve done - and he can see that their punishment doesn’t really fit their crime.
The Syracusans speak in the Irish vernacular, and what’s really strange, is that it doesn’t sound out of place (in my head, anyway!).
I laughed and cried whilst reading this. It really is a glorious read.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Duncan in Books
May 22, 2019
A cunning pederastic serial killer nicknamed Santa is making his way up the East Coast from New Orleans to Boston, leaving a trail of young bodies in his wake. Santa covers his tracks along the way by working as an itinerant bass player in a series of jazz combos. At the same time, the Driscoll family Mark, Julie and their nine-year-old son Nate who live in an upstate suburb of Syracuse, New York, struggle to come to grips with Moms quadriplegia following a horrific auto accident. The suspense builds to a fever pitch as these two plot strands approach each other for the inevitable confrontation. All this tension is heightened by the mystery of Duncan, Nates stuffed-toy gorilla, who is not only the boys beloved companion but becomes a kind of family totem, and, later on in the story, so much more.
Trigger warning for pedophilia, disability, murder, and so forth
This is a novel not only for readers addicted to thrill rides and maddening suspense, but also those who are curious about the abnormal psychology of the pedophiliac killer. The book gives food for thought as well as a kind of perverse satisfaction for the imagination and senses. It is a thinking readers thriller.
There are some graphic scenes that would make any normal human uncomfortable to say the least.
I loved how Mr. McCort portrays the heart-warming relationship dynamics within the Driscoll family. Oh I did love Duncan too!
The book also delivers on its' promise to the insight of the killers mind as well (the diabolical Santa).
Disturbing but excellent read.
Recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Trigger warning for pedophilia, disability, murder, and so forth
This is a novel not only for readers addicted to thrill rides and maddening suspense, but also those who are curious about the abnormal psychology of the pedophiliac killer. The book gives food for thought as well as a kind of perverse satisfaction for the imagination and senses. It is a thinking readers thriller.
There are some graphic scenes that would make any normal human uncomfortable to say the least.
I loved how Mr. McCort portrays the heart-warming relationship dynamics within the Driscoll family. Oh I did love Duncan too!
The book also delivers on its' promise to the insight of the killers mind as well (the diabolical Santa).
Disturbing but excellent read.
Recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated The Husbands in Books
May 22, 2019
A BREATHTAKING CRIME THRILLER FULL OF SHOCKING TWISTS AND TURNS
He kills their wives. He destroys their families.
Then he comes after the husbands.
“Do you want to know who killed your wife?” he asks.
Kelly Roth, FBI profiler, returns home to Syracuse to stop a sadistic serial killer.
Three murders in three separate jurisdictions in central New York State have the same pattern: women killed by fatal head shots from a hunting rifle. Kelly Roth is sent from Virginia to help the local police.
Each victim was found murdered in a remote area or in a quiet park. The media call him “The Park Killer.” But Kelly doesn’t think the killer lurks in the bushes. She thinks he hunts his victims somewhere else.
Is he really contacting the bereaved husbands or is this just someone playing a sick game?
Kelly will risk her own life in a heart-stopping race against time to stop more murders and find out the truth.
HOW FAR WOULD YOU GO TO DISCOVER WHO KILLED YOUR WIFE?
Kelly is a terrific character and I enjoyed how the author weaved her backstory into today's killings. There are plenty of suspects with a story premise that keeps you guessing until the very end.
I love the fact that it is the males left trying to cope with being left behind instead of it being the females.
This is very well written; very atmospheric and chilling.
What I really liked about this novel was that there is no clue to what the outcome was going to be and no real idea where the investigation was leading, making this compulsive reading.
I could not put this book down. As for the ending; WOW; that just blew me away. Another explosive read from this author and so highly recommended.
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
He kills their wives. He destroys their families.
Then he comes after the husbands.
“Do you want to know who killed your wife?” he asks.
Kelly Roth, FBI profiler, returns home to Syracuse to stop a sadistic serial killer.
Three murders in three separate jurisdictions in central New York State have the same pattern: women killed by fatal head shots from a hunting rifle. Kelly Roth is sent from Virginia to help the local police.
Each victim was found murdered in a remote area or in a quiet park. The media call him “The Park Killer.” But Kelly doesn’t think the killer lurks in the bushes. She thinks he hunts his victims somewhere else.
Is he really contacting the bereaved husbands or is this just someone playing a sick game?
Kelly will risk her own life in a heart-stopping race against time to stop more murders and find out the truth.
HOW FAR WOULD YOU GO TO DISCOVER WHO KILLED YOUR WIFE?
Kelly is a terrific character and I enjoyed how the author weaved her backstory into today's killings. There are plenty of suspects with a story premise that keeps you guessing until the very end.
I love the fact that it is the males left trying to cope with being left behind instead of it being the females.
This is very well written; very atmospheric and chilling.
What I really liked about this novel was that there is no clue to what the outcome was going to be and no real idea where the investigation was leading, making this compulsive reading.
I could not put this book down. As for the ending; WOW; that just blew me away. Another explosive read from this author and so highly recommended.
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Beerbongs & Bentleys by Post Malone in Music
Jun 7, 2019
Post Malone is a rapper from Syracuse, New York. Not too long ago, he released his sophomore album, entitled, “beerbongs & bentleys”, featuring Swae Lee, 21 Savage, Ty Dolla Sign, Nicki Minaj, G-Eazy, and YG.
Malone wears his heart on his sleeve and speaks from the heart. His world is good and bad, and he blames himself for his dual reality because life is what you make it.
PARANOID
Malone opens the album speaking about his paranoia. He’s worked so hard to become rich and successful. Now, he can’t trust anyone around him. He fears that people are out to get him for his riches, which he has stashed in different areas of his home.
To protect himself, Malone sleeps with a gun by his bed. Also, he’s willing to shoot anyone trying to break in or enter his home unannounced.
SPOIL MY NIGHT (FT. SWAE LEE)
Malone addresses limelight-lustful females he encounters in nightclubs. The women know Malone is a celebrity, so they want their social-media world to know that they are hanging out with him.
Malone admits that what he’s doing is wrong. But there’s no need for these women to get star-struck. In a way, he’s suspicious about their move to go live on Instagram. He would rather them chill and keep things on the low.
RICH & SAD
Malone addresses his girlfriend. She’s the reason why he doesn’t want his female fans recording him in the clubs.
Apparently, Malone’s girl leaves him for unknown reasons. Malone claims it’s because his career is skyrocketing. So, that might’ve complicated their relationship. But the real reason is anyone’s guess.
After her departure, Malone feels lonely and depressed, even though he’s surrounded by fame and fortune.
Malone realizes that money can’t buy happiness. All he wants is his girlfriend back.
ZACK AND CODEINE
Malone solves his loneliness by indulging in his guilty pleasures. So, he parties in a hotel lobby, filled with women, drugs, and alcohol.
Malone celebrates his success and doesn’t plan on sleeping anytime soon. As long as he’s partying, he doesn’t feel alone. He even addresses the current state of urban music.
TAKIN’ SHOTS
Malone continues his pleasure-seeking. This time, he’s at another party, mixing unprotected threesome sex, drugs, and alcohol.
Malone is drunk before he gets to the party. Still, that doesn’t stop him from taking more shots. Also, he’s waiting for more drugs to come.
ROCKSTAR FEAT. 21 SAVAGE
Malone identifies what he is—a Rockstar, smoking weed like a Rasta, f*cking hoes, and popping pills.
The Emil Nava-directed video shows Malone as a deranged swordsman. Also, he is warring against the ops, and they are clothed in business attire.
OVER NOW
Malone stops partying and addresses his off-and-on relationship with his girlfriend. This time, he lets her know that he’s been a begging idiot. Now, he doesn’t want her anymore. It’s over!
PSYCHO FEAT. TY DOLLA $IGN
Malone raps about making his first million, how much he charges for a walkthrough, and how the jewelry on his neck is making his neck cold. Also, all these things he has accumulated, have women asking, “Can I have some to hold?”
The James DeFina-directed video begins with Malone riding a tank in a deserted area. Also, later scenes show Ty Dolla riding inside the tank.
BETTER NOW
Malone reverts back to talking about his ex-girlfriend. He questions her saying that she is better now. But he doesn’t believe that, even though he sees her with a new guy.
Malone is trying to win back her love and faults himself as the problem of their separation. He puts his heart on his sleeve and lets it be known that he’s still in love with her.
BALL FOR ME FEAT. NICKI MINAJ
Malone ditches his relationship drama and puts on his ballin’ jersey. He’s busy on the road getting paid. So, he doesn’t have time to personally take her shopping on Rodeo Drive.
The girl wants to be styled in Saint Laurent fashion. So, Malone offers to pay $30,000 for the shopping spree and nothing more.
OTHERSIDE
Malone reverts back to talking about his ex-girlfriend. He’s been drinking and reminiscing about their rocky relationship. Also, he wants to know why she doesn’t answer when he calls her name.
It seems Malone’s girl did him dirty. She left him in the cold and now he’s burning inside trying to drink away the pain. But somehow, he still loves her and wants the waves to come and take him back to her.
STAY
Malone is stuck in a sunken place. The rocky relationship between him and his ex is starting to get to him and he’s starting to drink more and more.
BLAME IT ON ME
Malone reflects on a time when he didn’t have money and fame. Life was so simple back then.
Now, people around him are trying to take pieces of him, and everything he has worked hard for. He blames himself for them taking advantage of him, even though he knows they love when he’s in agony.
SAME BITCHES FEAT. YG & G-EAZY
Malone raps about being in Los Angeles. He questions, if the population is 4-million, how come he sees the same b*tches? Also, he questions their intention.
JONESTOWN (INTERLUDE)
Malone is depressed again. He mentions the Jonestown cult massacre when Jim Jones poisoned his followers with a poisonous Kool-Aid drink.
Malone raps about his 1992 Ford Explorer. Apparently, he purchased another one for $1,700 and got it customized by West Coast Customs.
CANDY PAINT
Malone continues his lavish talks about his lavish lifestyle, expensive vehicles, and his boss status. Also, he warns people not to plot on what he has because it can get ugly.
‘Candy Paint’ was originally recorded for “The Fate of the Furious: The Album” soundtrack.
SUGAR WRAITH
Malone continues with the car theme. He raps about his Rolls Royce Wraith and taking it out for a drive. Also, he covers other topics.
CONCLUSION
‘beerbongs & bentleys’ is a rhythmic/harmonious album with solid production and detailed songwriting.
Also, it highlights Malone’s struggles, pinpoints his weaknesses and addictions, which are lotion with tears of depression and materialistic happiness.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/post-malone-beerbongs-bentleys/
Malone wears his heart on his sleeve and speaks from the heart. His world is good and bad, and he blames himself for his dual reality because life is what you make it.
PARANOID
Malone opens the album speaking about his paranoia. He’s worked so hard to become rich and successful. Now, he can’t trust anyone around him. He fears that people are out to get him for his riches, which he has stashed in different areas of his home.
To protect himself, Malone sleeps with a gun by his bed. Also, he’s willing to shoot anyone trying to break in or enter his home unannounced.
SPOIL MY NIGHT (FT. SWAE LEE)
Malone addresses limelight-lustful females he encounters in nightclubs. The women know Malone is a celebrity, so they want their social-media world to know that they are hanging out with him.
Malone admits that what he’s doing is wrong. But there’s no need for these women to get star-struck. In a way, he’s suspicious about their move to go live on Instagram. He would rather them chill and keep things on the low.
RICH & SAD
Malone addresses his girlfriend. She’s the reason why he doesn’t want his female fans recording him in the clubs.
Apparently, Malone’s girl leaves him for unknown reasons. Malone claims it’s because his career is skyrocketing. So, that might’ve complicated their relationship. But the real reason is anyone’s guess.
After her departure, Malone feels lonely and depressed, even though he’s surrounded by fame and fortune.
Malone realizes that money can’t buy happiness. All he wants is his girlfriend back.
ZACK AND CODEINE
Malone solves his loneliness by indulging in his guilty pleasures. So, he parties in a hotel lobby, filled with women, drugs, and alcohol.
Malone celebrates his success and doesn’t plan on sleeping anytime soon. As long as he’s partying, he doesn’t feel alone. He even addresses the current state of urban music.
TAKIN’ SHOTS
Malone continues his pleasure-seeking. This time, he’s at another party, mixing unprotected threesome sex, drugs, and alcohol.
Malone is drunk before he gets to the party. Still, that doesn’t stop him from taking more shots. Also, he’s waiting for more drugs to come.
ROCKSTAR FEAT. 21 SAVAGE
Malone identifies what he is—a Rockstar, smoking weed like a Rasta, f*cking hoes, and popping pills.
The Emil Nava-directed video shows Malone as a deranged swordsman. Also, he is warring against the ops, and they are clothed in business attire.
OVER NOW
Malone stops partying and addresses his off-and-on relationship with his girlfriend. This time, he lets her know that he’s been a begging idiot. Now, he doesn’t want her anymore. It’s over!
PSYCHO FEAT. TY DOLLA $IGN
Malone raps about making his first million, how much he charges for a walkthrough, and how the jewelry on his neck is making his neck cold. Also, all these things he has accumulated, have women asking, “Can I have some to hold?”
The James DeFina-directed video begins with Malone riding a tank in a deserted area. Also, later scenes show Ty Dolla riding inside the tank.
BETTER NOW
Malone reverts back to talking about his ex-girlfriend. He questions her saying that she is better now. But he doesn’t believe that, even though he sees her with a new guy.
Malone is trying to win back her love and faults himself as the problem of their separation. He puts his heart on his sleeve and lets it be known that he’s still in love with her.
BALL FOR ME FEAT. NICKI MINAJ
Malone ditches his relationship drama and puts on his ballin’ jersey. He’s busy on the road getting paid. So, he doesn’t have time to personally take her shopping on Rodeo Drive.
The girl wants to be styled in Saint Laurent fashion. So, Malone offers to pay $30,000 for the shopping spree and nothing more.
OTHERSIDE
Malone reverts back to talking about his ex-girlfriend. He’s been drinking and reminiscing about their rocky relationship. Also, he wants to know why she doesn’t answer when he calls her name.
It seems Malone’s girl did him dirty. She left him in the cold and now he’s burning inside trying to drink away the pain. But somehow, he still loves her and wants the waves to come and take him back to her.
STAY
Malone is stuck in a sunken place. The rocky relationship between him and his ex is starting to get to him and he’s starting to drink more and more.
BLAME IT ON ME
Malone reflects on a time when he didn’t have money and fame. Life was so simple back then.
Now, people around him are trying to take pieces of him, and everything he has worked hard for. He blames himself for them taking advantage of him, even though he knows they love when he’s in agony.
SAME BITCHES FEAT. YG & G-EAZY
Malone raps about being in Los Angeles. He questions, if the population is 4-million, how come he sees the same b*tches? Also, he questions their intention.
JONESTOWN (INTERLUDE)
Malone is depressed again. He mentions the Jonestown cult massacre when Jim Jones poisoned his followers with a poisonous Kool-Aid drink.
Malone raps about his 1992 Ford Explorer. Apparently, he purchased another one for $1,700 and got it customized by West Coast Customs.
CANDY PAINT
Malone continues his lavish talks about his lavish lifestyle, expensive vehicles, and his boss status. Also, he warns people not to plot on what he has because it can get ugly.
‘Candy Paint’ was originally recorded for “The Fate of the Furious: The Album” soundtrack.
SUGAR WRAITH
Malone continues with the car theme. He raps about his Rolls Royce Wraith and taking it out for a drive. Also, he covers other topics.
CONCLUSION
‘beerbongs & bentleys’ is a rhythmic/harmonious album with solid production and detailed songwriting.
Also, it highlights Malone’s struggles, pinpoints his weaknesses and addictions, which are lotion with tears of depression and materialistic happiness.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/post-malone-beerbongs-bentleys/