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Sheridan (209 KP) rated the Xbox One version of Shadow Of The Tomb Raider in Video Games
Sep 27, 2018
Graphics are incredible (2 more)
Gameplay is flawless
Story is engaging and interesting
A Visual Masterpiece
I'll do my best not to gush too much, but holy mother of - this game, you guys - this game is utterly phenominal. The graphics, oh wow! The trees, the water, Lara's hair! It's all totally on point. Amazing all round, I spent the first ten minutes just looking around because let me tell you the graphics are just beautiful. The gameplay is similar to the other two Tomb Raider games but with a few new interesting ideas, the skill tree gives you a bunch of great perks that *really* help when you get further into the story. The collectibles are interesting and at some stages challenging to find, I honestly can't remember whether or not Rise of the Tomb Raider had the GPS caches but they've done away with that idea in SotTR and gone with Survival caches which are great for upgrading. They've also got a new idea where you find monoliths which give you a rare survival caches if you can solve the riddle ;) Another new feature are Crypts which are like mini challenge tombs, once you complete it you recieve an outfit which you restore at your base camps, and wearing those gives you extra game perks (they're also pretty which is fun too). The challenge tombs are great fun and give you perks in your skill tree, you can't get unless you complete them, so it's worthwhile doing them. Once you've finished the game, you have the option to have another crack at it in New Game +, you keep all your skills, outfits and weapons (at the moment I'm a bit of the way through this with the game on 'One with the Jungle' which is the hard setting). The story is really interesting and based on Mayan legends, which I won't spoil for you, needless to say it's fantastic :) TL;DR: It's f**king phenominal, get it, you won't be disappointed :)
Kayleigh (12 KP) rated Uglies (Uglies, #1) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
I bought this book because I loved its premise - upon a person's 16th birthday, they are turned from 'ugly' (read: normal), to 'pretty', in an operation that maximises their evolutionary appeal and usefulness, with ceramic teeth and perfect vision. It's set 100 years in the future; people in today's society are known as 'rusties', with pollution having wiped the majority of us out, and things such as anorexia having been abolished with the new government's operation.
At first, I thought probably wasn't the best start for me. I think my own perspective on physical inadequacy (in that I love the idea of being made beautiful, with all the fat sucked out and no health problems) meant that I was rooting for Tally to get the operation she wanted, even though I could tell something wasn't quite right. This turned out not to matter though - you're supposed to root for Tally, and I think what I was feeling was the confusion she was going through.
Around halfway, I was thoroughly swept away, and was really disappointed that I wasn't able to buy the next book straight away (as there was no internet where I was staying). The cliffhanger at the end of the book is really effective - I was so invested in Tally that I really wanted to read on. The world in the book was different to anything I've read before, and I really enjoyed reading about things like hoverboards and bungee jackets, not to mention imagining the pretties and specials.
I think it's a contemporary, teenage version of [b:1984|5470|1984|George Orwell|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348990566s/5470.jpg|153313], in that the government is watching (if not as openly as in [a:George Orwell|3706|George Orwell|http://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1175614486p2/3706.jpg]'s book) and is very happy to tamper with people's minds to make them conform. Even though the book is all about becoming 'pretty' - which is what attracted me, and will doubtless attract many others - it's a subtle message that looking that good isn't all it's cracked up to be, and can sometimes come at a price. I really enjoyed it.
If you liked this review, please check out my <a href="http://www.a-worldofwords.com>blog</a>;!
At first, I thought probably wasn't the best start for me. I think my own perspective on physical inadequacy (in that I love the idea of being made beautiful, with all the fat sucked out and no health problems) meant that I was rooting for Tally to get the operation she wanted, even though I could tell something wasn't quite right. This turned out not to matter though - you're supposed to root for Tally, and I think what I was feeling was the confusion she was going through.
Around halfway, I was thoroughly swept away, and was really disappointed that I wasn't able to buy the next book straight away (as there was no internet where I was staying). The cliffhanger at the end of the book is really effective - I was so invested in Tally that I really wanted to read on. The world in the book was different to anything I've read before, and I really enjoyed reading about things like hoverboards and bungee jackets, not to mention imagining the pretties and specials.
I think it's a contemporary, teenage version of [b:1984|5470|1984|George Orwell|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348990566s/5470.jpg|153313], in that the government is watching (if not as openly as in [a:George Orwell|3706|George Orwell|http://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1175614486p2/3706.jpg]'s book) and is very happy to tamper with people's minds to make them conform. Even though the book is all about becoming 'pretty' - which is what attracted me, and will doubtless attract many others - it's a subtle message that looking that good isn't all it's cracked up to be, and can sometimes come at a price. I really enjoyed it.
If you liked this review, please check out my <a href="http://www.a-worldofwords.com>blog</a>;!
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Through Waters Deep (Waves of Freedom, #1) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Tensions run high as a saboteur begins to wreck havoc at the Boston Naval Yard. America is on the brink of entering the second World War and there are those who will stop at nothing to make sure the nation stays out of it.
Mary Stirling is content with her job as a secretary at the Boston Naval Yard, so long as she can stay out of the spotlight. Mary is determined to remain in the shadows and keep her pride suppressed. On her journey, she learns that using the talents and gifts that God has given her, is not a sin. And it brings glory to the One who gave her those gifts. The last thing Mary expected was Ensign Jim Avery, a childhood friend now assigned to the USS Atwood. As they investigate the strange goings on at the Naval Yard, they become increasingly attached to one another. But will they ever get to tell each other how they feel? Or will they be separated forever?
First of all, I am completely in love with the cover of this book! I admit that I am a sucker for a good cover. And I would have to rate this as one of my all time favorites. Watch the photo shoot for the cover here. I could not stop reading this book. I was hooked from page one! There is so much going on in the story line that there is never a dull moment. It was interesting to watch Mary and Jim's relationship grow. There were a few times that I got very upset (you'll know what I'm talking about when you get there), but Sarah did an excellent job of bringing it all together in the end. The history within these pages is incredible. Although the author did take some creative license, she explains it in her notes at the end. Overall an excellent read and one I will be sharing with my friends! Through Waters Deep is the beginning of Sarah Sundin's third series, but the first book of hers that I have read. I look forward to reading the rest of her books!
I received a free copy of Through Waters Deep from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
Mary Stirling is content with her job as a secretary at the Boston Naval Yard, so long as she can stay out of the spotlight. Mary is determined to remain in the shadows and keep her pride suppressed. On her journey, she learns that using the talents and gifts that God has given her, is not a sin. And it brings glory to the One who gave her those gifts. The last thing Mary expected was Ensign Jim Avery, a childhood friend now assigned to the USS Atwood. As they investigate the strange goings on at the Naval Yard, they become increasingly attached to one another. But will they ever get to tell each other how they feel? Or will they be separated forever?
First of all, I am completely in love with the cover of this book! I admit that I am a sucker for a good cover. And I would have to rate this as one of my all time favorites. Watch the photo shoot for the cover here. I could not stop reading this book. I was hooked from page one! There is so much going on in the story line that there is never a dull moment. It was interesting to watch Mary and Jim's relationship grow. There were a few times that I got very upset (you'll know what I'm talking about when you get there), but Sarah did an excellent job of bringing it all together in the end. The history within these pages is incredible. Although the author did take some creative license, she explains it in her notes at the end. Overall an excellent read and one I will be sharing with my friends! Through Waters Deep is the beginning of Sarah Sundin's third series, but the first book of hers that I have read. I look forward to reading the rest of her books!
I received a free copy of Through Waters Deep from Revell in exchange for my honest review.
Jessica - Where the Book Ends (15 KP) rated The Apocalypse of Elena Mendoza in Books
Jan 30, 2019
Lately I’ve been doing a lot of reading, but the books haven’t been grabbing and holding my attention, and always left me wanting more. Then I saw a BookTuber that was raving about how excited she was to read The Apocalypse of Elena Mendoza. She showed her ARC and talked all about the premise of the book and I know immediately that I had to read it. I had never read anything by Shaun David Hutchinson before, but now I definitely know I need to read more of his work.
Hutchinson doesn’t take long to get into the action of the book and the pace doesn’t slow down until it’s over. In the beginning, we met Elena and she explains all about how she was born of a virgin birth. She works at Starbucks and on the day, she is going to finally talk to her crush Freddie everything goes downhill. See, Freddie gets shot by David Combs and Elena heals Freddie and saves her life. At the same time a beam of light comes down from the sky and David Combs disappears. Coincidence? I’ll never tell… You need to read the book to find out.
The characters were phenomenal and relatable. I don’t have anything directly in common with any of the characters, but I loved them so much. They were quirky, genuine, and loveable. The character development throughout the book helped to move the story along and unravel all the pieces. Each of the characters were critical to the story in their own way. They didn’t always seem like they were playing a roll, but it was mandatory for each of them to be there. Each character also learned a lesson which is amazing to see in YA fiction, as I feel it’s something that seems to be lacking lately.
Shaun David Hutchinson is an absolutely amazing writer and the way he weaves a story with the written word makes your want to curl up in his books and become one of his characters. His writing style is delightful, thought provoking, and engaging. I can’t wait to read more of his books and look forward to seeing what the future holds for such a talented individual.
Hutchinson doesn’t take long to get into the action of the book and the pace doesn’t slow down until it’s over. In the beginning, we met Elena and she explains all about how she was born of a virgin birth. She works at Starbucks and on the day, she is going to finally talk to her crush Freddie everything goes downhill. See, Freddie gets shot by David Combs and Elena heals Freddie and saves her life. At the same time a beam of light comes down from the sky and David Combs disappears. Coincidence? I’ll never tell… You need to read the book to find out.
The characters were phenomenal and relatable. I don’t have anything directly in common with any of the characters, but I loved them so much. They were quirky, genuine, and loveable. The character development throughout the book helped to move the story along and unravel all the pieces. Each of the characters were critical to the story in their own way. They didn’t always seem like they were playing a roll, but it was mandatory for each of them to be there. Each character also learned a lesson which is amazing to see in YA fiction, as I feel it’s something that seems to be lacking lately.
Shaun David Hutchinson is an absolutely amazing writer and the way he weaves a story with the written word makes your want to curl up in his books and become one of his characters. His writing style is delightful, thought provoking, and engaging. I can’t wait to read more of his books and look forward to seeing what the future holds for such a talented individual.
Marylegs (44 KP) rated The Name of the Wind in Books
Aug 14, 2019
The Name of the Wind can only be classed as an epic fantasy. The first installment in a series of books I will definitely be carrying on with. I am a great lover of fantasy books, I will not compare it to others as I don’t believe it is that similar to others I have read. True, certain elements seem familiar, the loss of loved ones, finding one’s self, falling in love with an unobtainable person, continuing an education above the class of the main character… I could go on but I won’t. However for all these similarities, it still felt new and fresh in its delivery.
The main character Kvothe is likeable and I was really routing for him. The bulk of the story is told from his perspective as he endeavours to tell his story to a scribe who had come seeking the truth about his extraordinary life. We follow his story from his unlikely beginnings as part of traveling troupe to him becoming nothing short of a hero.
As a sucker for love, I have to say some of the most enjoyable sections of the book involved Denna, as soon and the two meet I could feel the glimmerings of hopefully first love. Without giving anything away, this love doesn’t go the traditional way that most stories would travel. But it is obviously there and knowing that there are more books to read I am sure there is more to Kvothe and Denna story together.
My least liked character has to Ambrose (what a silly girly name to begin with). He is petty and unlikeable from the on start. I feel the dislike between Kvothe and Ambrose will culminate into something sinister which no doubt will be an integral part of the tale…. But I really wish he would get his comeuppance…. Soon.
If like me you want to read a fantasy book that has all the elements you would want; love, conflict, revenge, magic, friendship and injustice. But doesn’t play by all the rules and is obviously building strong foundations towards what hopefully will be an impressive ending, then I believe this book is for you.
The main character Kvothe is likeable and I was really routing for him. The bulk of the story is told from his perspective as he endeavours to tell his story to a scribe who had come seeking the truth about his extraordinary life. We follow his story from his unlikely beginnings as part of traveling troupe to him becoming nothing short of a hero.
As a sucker for love, I have to say some of the most enjoyable sections of the book involved Denna, as soon and the two meet I could feel the glimmerings of hopefully first love. Without giving anything away, this love doesn’t go the traditional way that most stories would travel. But it is obviously there and knowing that there are more books to read I am sure there is more to Kvothe and Denna story together.
My least liked character has to Ambrose (what a silly girly name to begin with). He is petty and unlikeable from the on start. I feel the dislike between Kvothe and Ambrose will culminate into something sinister which no doubt will be an integral part of the tale…. But I really wish he would get his comeuppance…. Soon.
If like me you want to read a fantasy book that has all the elements you would want; love, conflict, revenge, magic, friendship and injustice. But doesn’t play by all the rules and is obviously building strong foundations towards what hopefully will be an impressive ending, then I believe this book is for you.
Debbiereadsbook (1174 KP) rated Fade In (Tales of Bryant Novellas #1) in Books
Jan 29, 2020
I NEEDED Caiden!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book three in the Tales of Bryant series, and while I would RECOMMEND that you read the other two books first, its not really necessary. Books one and two are abotu Isamu and Brian, and this book is about Isamu's friend, Devon. It woud just give you a better picture of these people and how they interact.
It was the interaction between Brian and Caiden in the first two books that piqued my interest in Caiden! Devon is smitten immediately, and you knew when they eventually came together it was gonna be hot and it really is! I just didn't expect to he hauled through the emotional wringer too!
Caiden and Devon get together at Brian and Isamu's wedding and they fall into a brief affair, thats all it can be, cos Caiden leaves twon for 3 months shortly. But Devon can't fight his feelings and runs. Caiden brings him back, time again until Devon finally calls time, when Caiden is leaving town.
Because a huge chunk of the book is set over two weeks, it IS fast that Devon falls, and utters those 3 little words, and usually I wouldn't like that but since Devon knows there is a limited time available, he goes in feet first. While Caiden doesn't say them til MUCH later, I felt he did fell the words for Devon, he showed him in other ways. It's just, Devon doesn't see it like that and all his past insecurities come crashing down around his ears.
It's hot and steamy in places, and sweet and emotional in others. It hit THAT spot in all but one.
Again, its only Devon who has a say, and thats the only reason I can't stretch to 5 stars! Cos let me tell ya, Devon falling hard and fast for Caiden was great reading but I NEEDED Caiden too, and I don't get him. So I'm a bit miffed about that!
Adrian is up next, the wedding planner who lost the plot when dealing with Isamu's Baba (grandmother) and he is a character and a half!
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book three in the Tales of Bryant series, and while I would RECOMMEND that you read the other two books first, its not really necessary. Books one and two are abotu Isamu and Brian, and this book is about Isamu's friend, Devon. It woud just give you a better picture of these people and how they interact.
It was the interaction between Brian and Caiden in the first two books that piqued my interest in Caiden! Devon is smitten immediately, and you knew when they eventually came together it was gonna be hot and it really is! I just didn't expect to he hauled through the emotional wringer too!
Caiden and Devon get together at Brian and Isamu's wedding and they fall into a brief affair, thats all it can be, cos Caiden leaves twon for 3 months shortly. But Devon can't fight his feelings and runs. Caiden brings him back, time again until Devon finally calls time, when Caiden is leaving town.
Because a huge chunk of the book is set over two weeks, it IS fast that Devon falls, and utters those 3 little words, and usually I wouldn't like that but since Devon knows there is a limited time available, he goes in feet first. While Caiden doesn't say them til MUCH later, I felt he did fell the words for Devon, he showed him in other ways. It's just, Devon doesn't see it like that and all his past insecurities come crashing down around his ears.
It's hot and steamy in places, and sweet and emotional in others. It hit THAT spot in all but one.
Again, its only Devon who has a say, and thats the only reason I can't stretch to 5 stars! Cos let me tell ya, Devon falling hard and fast for Caiden was great reading but I NEEDED Caiden too, and I don't get him. So I'm a bit miffed about that!
Adrian is up next, the wedding planner who lost the plot when dealing with Isamu's Baba (grandmother) and he is a character and a half!
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Good Girls Lie in Books
Mar 19, 2020
The Goode School is an elite prep school in Marchburg, Virginia. Each class contains only fifty girls, hand-picked by Dean Westhaven herself. The school has been in the Dean's family for generations. The girls all go on to college--mostly the Ivies--and are the daughters of the rich and elite. Goode is filled with traditions, rumors, haunted tunnels and arboretums, and secret societies. Coming to Goode from England this year is Ash Carr, now Ash Carlisle. Ash's wealthy parents are dead and Goode gives her a chance to start over without the notoriety that follows in her home country. But soon, a student is dead at Goode. She apparently had a secret--and she isn't the only one.
I am a total sucker for a good boarding school mystery. Add in the fact that this one is set basically in my backyard, the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia, and it's written by one of my favorite authors, J.T. Ellison: I'm all in. GOOD GIRLS LIE didn't disappoint. This was a captivating thriller that kept me frantically flipping the pages of my Kindle. I didn't know who to believe, what to believe, or what on earth was going on. And I loved it.
The book opens up with a death--a body is found hanging on the school's gates. From there, the story backs up, and you are left guessing, wondering if Ash is a reliable narrator or not. For a story that features teenage girls, it's surprisingly adult and dark.
"Of course, there are a few people who know exactly who is hanging from the school's gates. Know who, and know why. But they will never tell."
This is a mystery filled with juicy backstories and gossip. The town of Marchburg has a storied past, and I found myself caught up in all of it. The Dean and her mother--twisted past. An old incident at the school--twisted past. Ash and her family--twisted past. Do you see a pattern emerging? Around every corner, a new dramatic turn emerges. If you like your thrillers with lots of drama and surprises, you'll enjoy this book. It's different, dark and twisty, and quite good. 4.5 stars.
I am a total sucker for a good boarding school mystery. Add in the fact that this one is set basically in my backyard, the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia, and it's written by one of my favorite authors, J.T. Ellison: I'm all in. GOOD GIRLS LIE didn't disappoint. This was a captivating thriller that kept me frantically flipping the pages of my Kindle. I didn't know who to believe, what to believe, or what on earth was going on. And I loved it.
The book opens up with a death--a body is found hanging on the school's gates. From there, the story backs up, and you are left guessing, wondering if Ash is a reliable narrator or not. For a story that features teenage girls, it's surprisingly adult and dark.
"Of course, there are a few people who know exactly who is hanging from the school's gates. Know who, and know why. But they will never tell."
This is a mystery filled with juicy backstories and gossip. The town of Marchburg has a storied past, and I found myself caught up in all of it. The Dean and her mother--twisted past. An old incident at the school--twisted past. Ash and her family--twisted past. Do you see a pattern emerging? Around every corner, a new dramatic turn emerges. If you like your thrillers with lots of drama and surprises, you'll enjoy this book. It's different, dark and twisty, and quite good. 4.5 stars.
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