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I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest opinion*
I have read the majority of Sarah Crossan’s work so picking this up was a ‘no brainer’.
Edward Moon was forced to sign a confession to a crime he never committed. Moonrise is told from Joseph Moon’s perspective some 10 years later as his brother has had his date set for his execution.
Edward, Angela and Joseph didn’t have the best upbringing when they were kids, their mother was an alcoholic and neglected them. It was down to their aunt Karen to take the up the role of the parent but as a christian had very strict rules. When Edward was seventeen he left home, unable to tolerate the his aunts strict demands. His moment of freedom was short-lived as he gets incarcerated for the murder of a local policeman. 10 years on and Joseph is to make the journey to Texas to find out what really happened and to say his goodbyes as Edwards execution has been scheduled. Joseph moves in to a decrepit motel room and gets by doing chores for the local diner. His month-long stay in Texas is to get to know his brother again only to say goodbye.
This book was just OK, it deals with a topic that is not widely written about in YA books but I did prefer ‘One’ and ‘The weight of water’. In true Sarah Crossan fashion this book is written entirely in verse, it can be read as individual poems or as a story whatever your preference. This book was not as thought-provoking as her other books and whilst the topic is something that intrigues me, I felt it could have been more emotional and had more character development, the emotional side of things just wasn’t captured well in the writing and I think that’s what let it down for me. It’s probably my own fault, as I tend to go into these book with high expectations. I feel like capital punishment could have been addressed more and given the audience more awareness of executions.
Even though I thought this was only OK, I would still recommend trying it for several reasons, 1. the topic, 2. it’s written in verse. 3. Everyone else seemed to love it.
I rated this 3 out of 5 stars.
I have read the majority of Sarah Crossan’s work so picking this up was a ‘no brainer’.
Edward Moon was forced to sign a confession to a crime he never committed. Moonrise is told from Joseph Moon’s perspective some 10 years later as his brother has had his date set for his execution.
Edward, Angela and Joseph didn’t have the best upbringing when they were kids, their mother was an alcoholic and neglected them. It was down to their aunt Karen to take the up the role of the parent but as a christian had very strict rules. When Edward was seventeen he left home, unable to tolerate the his aunts strict demands. His moment of freedom was short-lived as he gets incarcerated for the murder of a local policeman. 10 years on and Joseph is to make the journey to Texas to find out what really happened and to say his goodbyes as Edwards execution has been scheduled. Joseph moves in to a decrepit motel room and gets by doing chores for the local diner. His month-long stay in Texas is to get to know his brother again only to say goodbye.
This book was just OK, it deals with a topic that is not widely written about in YA books but I did prefer ‘One’ and ‘The weight of water’. In true Sarah Crossan fashion this book is written entirely in verse, it can be read as individual poems or as a story whatever your preference. This book was not as thought-provoking as her other books and whilst the topic is something that intrigues me, I felt it could have been more emotional and had more character development, the emotional side of things just wasn’t captured well in the writing and I think that’s what let it down for me. It’s probably my own fault, as I tend to go into these book with high expectations. I feel like capital punishment could have been addressed more and given the audience more awareness of executions.
Even though I thought this was only OK, I would still recommend trying it for several reasons, 1. the topic, 2. it’s written in verse. 3. Everyone else seemed to love it.
I rated this 3 out of 5 stars.
Neon's Nerd Nexus (360 KP) rated Abominable (2019) in Movies
Oct 19, 2019
You darted Dave
Abominable movie was one of my most anticipated animated films of the year and while it didn't live up to my own hype me and my nephew had an absolute blast watching it. Being such a humongous Big Hero 6 fan when I first saw the Abominable trailer I couldnt help but get extremely excited as it looked like it was heavily inspired by the baymax adventure it in every way. However while Abominable does share similarities with Big Hero I feel it fails to capture its charm, humour and heart which is a huge shame. Dont get me wrong its tremendous fun, has some truly stunning set pieces and its story always felt interesting its just let down by a pace thats a little to fast, some shortcuts in animation and no down time to let us understand and truly connect with its main characters. Visually colour wise it really is great to look at and animation is good (especially Everest his character design is simply wonderful fluffy and cheeky) its just not quite up there with How to train your dragon standards meaning sometimes I did notice some terrible textures. Messages are also strong as our main character feels alone with no purpose in life struggling with loss and feeling held back by those around her. That is until she learns to gain the confidence to take charge of her life, face her demons, realise her worth, embrace the memories/motivations of her past and become a stronger more appreciative person with drive of her own. Its inspiring stuff especially for kids and it really feels like shes taken this journey changing as a character along the way. Villains here feel refreshing too with one having a sad surprising back story of his own that shows why his heart grew cold and his motives in life become confused and muddled. My nephew loved every minute of it but said he became tired when the villain was on screen because he didn't like him.He also said it was almost as good as Big Hero 6 but not quite as good. I did really enjoy this movie I just wish a bit more time had been put into the animation and to fleshing out the characters because with a bit more heart/soul those set pieces could of really made a much bigger impact emotionally.
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated The Walking Dead - Season 7 in TV
Dec 3, 2019
Contains spoilers, click to show
Season 7 of The Walking Dead opens with a hard to watch bang, and one of the most infamous scenes from the comic series.
The introduction of Negan is suitably bleak, gory and unexpected, delivering a throat punch of two main character executions.
It is made clear that Rick could very well be out if his depth. It's a strong and terrifying opener, but it unfortunately does not set the tone for the rest of the season.
As I've mentioned before, TWD settled into a formula - a season would tend to consist of a couple of outstanding episodes, a handful a good ones, and then passed out with a lot of filler.
The main problem with season 7 is that after the opening episode, the remaining episodes all feel like filler. For the first time since it's beginning to, I found myself bored with TWD.
The plot remains very samey for the most part, with Rick and co. gathering supplies for Negan to avoid anymore culling of the cast.
Meanwhile we're introduced to new communities in the shape of The Kingdom and Oceanside, and it becomes clear early one that the four communities (including Alexandria and Hilltop) will unite to take on The Saviours, but it takes an excruciatingly long time to get there.
The side plot of Daryl's capture is dragged out for way too long and becomes testing.
The side plot of Eugene's reluctant turn to The Savior's is dragged out for way too long (it doesn't actually get resolved until the end of season 8!)
It all just feels like a bit of a slog.
We're also introduced to a group of survivors lead by a woman called Jadis, who are so f*cking pretentious, that they made me want to stop TWD altogether.
Its not all bad. My personal highlight of the season is probably Negan himself, a character that a lot of people didn't like. His jokey demeanor works well against all the seriousness, and to be honest, I'm just a fan of Jeffrey Dean Morgan in general.
Overall though, season 7 is thoroughly average, and unfortunately, it's not quite the low point of TWD. The main positive here is that it reminded me just how good the first few seasons were.
The introduction of Negan is suitably bleak, gory and unexpected, delivering a throat punch of two main character executions.
It is made clear that Rick could very well be out if his depth. It's a strong and terrifying opener, but it unfortunately does not set the tone for the rest of the season.
As I've mentioned before, TWD settled into a formula - a season would tend to consist of a couple of outstanding episodes, a handful a good ones, and then passed out with a lot of filler.
The main problem with season 7 is that after the opening episode, the remaining episodes all feel like filler. For the first time since it's beginning to, I found myself bored with TWD.
The plot remains very samey for the most part, with Rick and co. gathering supplies for Negan to avoid anymore culling of the cast.
Meanwhile we're introduced to new communities in the shape of The Kingdom and Oceanside, and it becomes clear early one that the four communities (including Alexandria and Hilltop) will unite to take on The Saviours, but it takes an excruciatingly long time to get there.
The side plot of Daryl's capture is dragged out for way too long and becomes testing.
The side plot of Eugene's reluctant turn to The Savior's is dragged out for way too long (it doesn't actually get resolved until the end of season 8!)
It all just feels like a bit of a slog.
We're also introduced to a group of survivors lead by a woman called Jadis, who are so f*cking pretentious, that they made me want to stop TWD altogether.
Its not all bad. My personal highlight of the season is probably Negan himself, a character that a lot of people didn't like. His jokey demeanor works well against all the seriousness, and to be honest, I'm just a fan of Jeffrey Dean Morgan in general.
Overall though, season 7 is thoroughly average, and unfortunately, it's not quite the low point of TWD. The main positive here is that it reminded me just how good the first few seasons were.
KalJ95 (25 KP) rated God of War in Video Games
Jan 3, 2020
The most gripping and emotionally engaging narrative in years. (2 more)
Combat is brutal and satisfying.
The one take camera is an astonishing achievement.
Powerful Playstation Epic.
Back in 2015, gaming hit its peak, and the new generation really came into full effect. Bloodborne, MGS V: The Phantom Pain, Rise of the Tomb Raider, just some games to hit the same year, but what really made me question just how incredible video games could become, was The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Since then, I found games that reached similar levels, but never peaked as much as that. Until God of War.
God of War engaged with me so much because at the time I was trying with my other half to have a child, and persistent family issues meant I no longer spoke to my father. Following the story of Kratos and Atreus really hit home, and I've never felt so gripped and emotionally attached to fictional characters. Every beat of the narrative is put there to for purpose, and to carry weight along this epic journey with a father and son. It packs so much intensity at times it becomes enthralling, almost addictive to continue its 25 hour length. This, I suppose, you could say is it's one part of two contained within the game.
Of course, there are levels upon levels to examine within this masterpiece, but simplifying it within two aspects seems the most appropriate way. The second is the combat.
God of War is brutal, bloody, bold. The simplicity to master the move sets is so brilliant and often bonkers. Throwing your trusty Leviathan Axe, and calling it back never, ever gets boring, and pushes you to become more intelligent with its system. The more the game enters its next stage, a curveball hits you, and you have to learn what you know already, and add even more creativity. By the end, you should be an expert. That is until you meet the Queen Valkyrie. That's all I'll say.
God of War is a masterpiece. Sure, there could of been a little more meat on the bone when it came to the endgame, more side mission content. But the story is so perfect, so masterful, it deserves every bit of praise it gathers.
God of War engaged with me so much because at the time I was trying with my other half to have a child, and persistent family issues meant I no longer spoke to my father. Following the story of Kratos and Atreus really hit home, and I've never felt so gripped and emotionally attached to fictional characters. Every beat of the narrative is put there to for purpose, and to carry weight along this epic journey with a father and son. It packs so much intensity at times it becomes enthralling, almost addictive to continue its 25 hour length. This, I suppose, you could say is it's one part of two contained within the game.
Of course, there are levels upon levels to examine within this masterpiece, but simplifying it within two aspects seems the most appropriate way. The second is the combat.
God of War is brutal, bloody, bold. The simplicity to master the move sets is so brilliant and often bonkers. Throwing your trusty Leviathan Axe, and calling it back never, ever gets boring, and pushes you to become more intelligent with its system. The more the game enters its next stage, a curveball hits you, and you have to learn what you know already, and add even more creativity. By the end, you should be an expert. That is until you meet the Queen Valkyrie. That's all I'll say.
God of War is a masterpiece. Sure, there could of been a little more meat on the bone when it came to the endgame, more side mission content. But the story is so perfect, so masterful, it deserves every bit of praise it gathers.
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Heidi's Guide to Four Letter Words in Books
Jan 12, 2021
This starts with Heidi trying to find a job and her mum and aunt going through a list of schools they think she should work at and Heidi listening miserably, knowing education isn't something she enjoyed. Instead she's applied to be in a receptionist type role at a local small business, not knowing at the time that they record erotic romances in audiobook form. Heidi is equally embarrassed and curious about what goes on at her place of work and with the help of her colleagues begins a podcast where she talks about her hot neighbour who she'd love to date and becoming more confident in saying those tricky four letter words.
I wasn't sure with this to start with. I found Heidi's almost prudishness too much at the start. I can't quite believe that she doesn't even allow herself to think swear words let alone say them. I don't know if it was her religious upbringing or her parents - who I found really annoying at times. It was nice to see her grow more confident in herself with every podcast she broadcasts and book scene she reads.
This one does have some comedy elements in it but, for me, the speech to text thing was hilarious and the funniest part. I couldn't stop laughing for quite a while with that one.
The romance in this didn't seem to take up as much of the book as I'd have liked. I think it got to around the 35% mark before the romance even started to kick in. They had talked briefly and acknowledged each other in the street but it was only after she'd done a few of her podcasts that she even had the guts to approach him for a date and then it was a slow burn into a cute romance. It was a really nice relationship they'd built up and then "the thing" that split them apart for a little while was blown out of proportion - as they do in romance books - before they sorted it out and were cuter than ever.
One thing I didn't understand was the "uff da" thing. I even had to look it up to figure out what that bit was all about. It still seemed a rather odd exclamation to me so I read it as oomph/oof noise.
If you like romantic comedies then you should give this a go.
I wasn't sure with this to start with. I found Heidi's almost prudishness too much at the start. I can't quite believe that she doesn't even allow herself to think swear words let alone say them. I don't know if it was her religious upbringing or her parents - who I found really annoying at times. It was nice to see her grow more confident in herself with every podcast she broadcasts and book scene she reads.
This one does have some comedy elements in it but, for me, the speech to text thing was hilarious and the funniest part. I couldn't stop laughing for quite a while with that one.
The romance in this didn't seem to take up as much of the book as I'd have liked. I think it got to around the 35% mark before the romance even started to kick in. They had talked briefly and acknowledged each other in the street but it was only after she'd done a few of her podcasts that she even had the guts to approach him for a date and then it was a slow burn into a cute romance. It was a really nice relationship they'd built up and then "the thing" that split them apart for a little while was blown out of proportion - as they do in romance books - before they sorted it out and were cuter than ever.
One thing I didn't understand was the "uff da" thing. I even had to look it up to figure out what that bit was all about. It still seemed a rather odd exclamation to me so I read it as oomph/oof noise.
If you like romantic comedies then you should give this a go.
Phillip McSween (751 KP) rated Citizen Kane (1941) in Movies
Sep 30, 2019
Beautiful Cinematic Treat
Citizen Kane follows the life of a newspaper tycoon. I saw this movie months ago, but have been dreading the review due to my scoring. Granted, I LOVED this movie, I just know there will be those that say I should have scored the movie higher and I’m ok with that. Here goes nothing…
Acting: 10
Orson Welles delivers a powerful performance as Charles Foster Kane. In my eyes, I see him as the original Tony Stark: Powerful, suave, and undeniably lovable. His presence takes over making it hard for me to remember the impact of other performances. There is no doubt that this is a classic, iconic role.
Beginning: 10
Characters: 10
Again, I could watch a movie made up of just Charles Foster Kane and no one else and still enjoy it. Yes, there were other characters that contributed to the film’s overall impactfulness, but the character of Kane is one you remember for a long time. He is a well-layered powerful man that has a lot brewing beneath the surface. He is compensating for something missing in his life and it doesn’t take us long to see this. His journey is definitely one worth watching.
Cinematography/Visuals: 10
Conflict: 8
Entertainment Value: 10
The entire movie revolves around a mystery: What exactly is rosebud? It takes us all the way to the end to truly find out what that means. I don’t know about you, but I spent much of my time while watching the film trying to find hints to what the mystery could mean. This made the movie all the more interesting and it was a clever way to keep me engaged. This movie doesn’t need a full two hours to pack a powerful punch.
Memorability: 10
Pace: 8
Plot: 10
Resolution: 6
Here’s where i get crucified: I think the ending to Citizen Kane is a bit overrated. When I found out what it all meant, I kind of rolled my eyes a bit. I didn’t hate it, but also didn’t see what the big deal was.
Overall: 92
Citizen Kane definitely deserves its classic status and I agree that, even to this day, it is still one of the best movies ever made. I won’t go as far as to say the greatest movie of all time (as of today it sits at 87 on my list), but it is truly a movie to remember.
Acting: 10
Orson Welles delivers a powerful performance as Charles Foster Kane. In my eyes, I see him as the original Tony Stark: Powerful, suave, and undeniably lovable. His presence takes over making it hard for me to remember the impact of other performances. There is no doubt that this is a classic, iconic role.
Beginning: 10
Characters: 10
Again, I could watch a movie made up of just Charles Foster Kane and no one else and still enjoy it. Yes, there were other characters that contributed to the film’s overall impactfulness, but the character of Kane is one you remember for a long time. He is a well-layered powerful man that has a lot brewing beneath the surface. He is compensating for something missing in his life and it doesn’t take us long to see this. His journey is definitely one worth watching.
Cinematography/Visuals: 10
Conflict: 8
Entertainment Value: 10
The entire movie revolves around a mystery: What exactly is rosebud? It takes us all the way to the end to truly find out what that means. I don’t know about you, but I spent much of my time while watching the film trying to find hints to what the mystery could mean. This made the movie all the more interesting and it was a clever way to keep me engaged. This movie doesn’t need a full two hours to pack a powerful punch.
Memorability: 10
Pace: 8
Plot: 10
Resolution: 6
Here’s where i get crucified: I think the ending to Citizen Kane is a bit overrated. When I found out what it all meant, I kind of rolled my eyes a bit. I didn’t hate it, but also didn’t see what the big deal was.
Overall: 92
Citizen Kane definitely deserves its classic status and I agree that, even to this day, it is still one of the best movies ever made. I won’t go as far as to say the greatest movie of all time (as of today it sits at 87 on my list), but it is truly a movie to remember.
Among the Impostors (Shadow Children, #2)
10.0
Rate It
Book
It was awful. All those eyes, all looking at him. It was straight out of Luke's worst nightmares....
Science Fiction Dystopia Fantasy
Debbiereadsbook (1487 KP) rated Constitution Check (Dungeons and Dating #4) by Katherine McIntyre in Books
Sep 24, 2022
i love this series!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 4 in the Dungeons & Dating book, and while not strictly necessary to have read the other three before this, I STRONGLY recommend you do. Not least because they are ALL five star reads, from me. But I would probably say read book 3, at least. Something happens in that book that leads into this one, and you get an inkling as to what Kelly is living through.
Ms McIntyre never ceases to amaze me, she can flip on a penny and it takes you a while to catch up with that little nugget of info, or this little comment that someone says. I have to slow my reading down to pay great attention, and I love that I have to.
Both Tabby and Kelly appear in previous books, although I couldn't place Tabby til there was something said here. (see above!)
Both girls are suffering in one way or another, but it takes a long time for them to open up to each other, to us. The clues are all there, they really are, but I didn't put the pieces together for Tabby, not straight away. I did for Kelly, because the signs were there in book 3.
Its not an easy read, given what Kelly went through, but it is extremely well written. Emotional reading, I had a tear or too. When Kelly finally lets Tabby in and vice versa, I cried, I really did.
Its steamy too! And while it IS steamy, it takes a back step, I think, to the emotions involved for these girls.
All the other pairings take part here, given as they all work together at the cafe, and we meet Eli, Tabby's cousin. He is one of the leads in the next book along with Arjun.
I read this in one sitting, stayed up way past my bedtime and was entirely unrepentant of that fact! I bloody loved it!
I love that McIntyre can flip from MM to MF and then to FF. Quite a skill to deliver each, but to be able to deliver them ALL?? Amazing. Please keep them coming!!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 4 in the Dungeons & Dating book, and while not strictly necessary to have read the other three before this, I STRONGLY recommend you do. Not least because they are ALL five star reads, from me. But I would probably say read book 3, at least. Something happens in that book that leads into this one, and you get an inkling as to what Kelly is living through.
Ms McIntyre never ceases to amaze me, she can flip on a penny and it takes you a while to catch up with that little nugget of info, or this little comment that someone says. I have to slow my reading down to pay great attention, and I love that I have to.
Both Tabby and Kelly appear in previous books, although I couldn't place Tabby til there was something said here. (see above!)
Both girls are suffering in one way or another, but it takes a long time for them to open up to each other, to us. The clues are all there, they really are, but I didn't put the pieces together for Tabby, not straight away. I did for Kelly, because the signs were there in book 3.
Its not an easy read, given what Kelly went through, but it is extremely well written. Emotional reading, I had a tear or too. When Kelly finally lets Tabby in and vice versa, I cried, I really did.
Its steamy too! And while it IS steamy, it takes a back step, I think, to the emotions involved for these girls.
All the other pairings take part here, given as they all work together at the cafe, and we meet Eli, Tabby's cousin. He is one of the leads in the next book along with Arjun.
I read this in one sitting, stayed up way past my bedtime and was entirely unrepentant of that fact! I bloody loved it!
I love that McIntyre can flip from MM to MF and then to FF. Quite a skill to deliver each, but to be able to deliver them ALL?? Amazing. Please keep them coming!!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Merissa (13197 KP) rated Made to Submit (La Trattoria Di Amore #3) in Books
Apr 30, 2021 (Updated Jul 27, 2023)
MADE TO SUBMIT is the third book in the La Trattoria Di Amore series. Although characters from previous books are mentioned, you don't need to have read them, to get this the fullest enjoyment out of this one.
We start off with Paolo at fifteen. He has a crush on one of the chefs working with his dad, which is one of the things that gives him a clue he's gay. Overhearing a conversation between his crush and someone else talking about BDSM makes him curious enough to look into it. Fast forward a few years, and he's working with his crush... who has no idea who he is. Not only that but he's now married. Paolo is heartbroken, sure that he is in love with Carl. Enter Kaden. He is physically attracted to Paolo but is very wary considering he knows about the crush. And then the story really takes off!
I can't tell you just how much I loved this story (although I'll obviously try!). Paolo and Kaden are so perfect for each other. What one needs, the other provides, without even really thinking about it but just doing it. Due to his past, Kaden needs control. Paolo is desperate to have control taken away from him, in every aspect of his life. These two really made my heart happy.
I'm going to be honest here and say that Carl, who is in book two which I haven't read, doesn't really come across that well. Bless him, I know he's busy with his own life, but is he that wrapped up that he didn't even take a double glance when Paolo started working there? How many Italians with the first name of Paolo does he know? I'm with Kaden all the way.
This was a brilliant story, with a fantastic supporting cast. The only question I have is what is the title of Lenny and Nathan's book? I need to read that one too!!! The pacing was perfect, the characters were wonderful, and the overall story kept my attention from the very beginning.
Absolutely recommended by me!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 30, 2021
We start off with Paolo at fifteen. He has a crush on one of the chefs working with his dad, which is one of the things that gives him a clue he's gay. Overhearing a conversation between his crush and someone else talking about BDSM makes him curious enough to look into it. Fast forward a few years, and he's working with his crush... who has no idea who he is. Not only that but he's now married. Paolo is heartbroken, sure that he is in love with Carl. Enter Kaden. He is physically attracted to Paolo but is very wary considering he knows about the crush. And then the story really takes off!
I can't tell you just how much I loved this story (although I'll obviously try!). Paolo and Kaden are so perfect for each other. What one needs, the other provides, without even really thinking about it but just doing it. Due to his past, Kaden needs control. Paolo is desperate to have control taken away from him, in every aspect of his life. These two really made my heart happy.
I'm going to be honest here and say that Carl, who is in book two which I haven't read, doesn't really come across that well. Bless him, I know he's busy with his own life, but is he that wrapped up that he didn't even take a double glance when Paolo started working there? How many Italians with the first name of Paolo does he know? I'm with Kaden all the way.
This was a brilliant story, with a fantastic supporting cast. The only question I have is what is the title of Lenny and Nathan's book? I need to read that one too!!! The pacing was perfect, the characters were wonderful, and the overall story kept my attention from the very beginning.
Absolutely recommended by me!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 30, 2021
