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Sensitivemuse (246 KP) rated Holding the Fort in Books
Jan 13, 2018
The plot was normally what you would expect in this type of novel. What I really loved about this book was the comedy throughout. I wasn’t really expecting some laughs. It made the book stand out and an enjoyable read. The romance within was also nicely done. There were moments where it tore you up inside but at the same time makes you squeal for joy because you were cheering Daniel and Louisa on. But the ending! Oh my the ending got me all girly and squealing. I’d have to say it was one of the most beautiful endings I have read so far.
But my oh my the romance in this book was excellent! The things Daniel does was enough to make you swoon. The chemistry he had with Louisa was also very well done and although there were a few frustrating moments were Louisa could just tell Daniel outright what the truth was, I guess it had to be dragged out to make the story complete (albeit not necessary. You sort of knew what was going to happen once Daniel found out the whole story.)
Louisa is also very likable and her willingness to change paths is admirable and fun to read. I was hoping for two hellions for her to deal with (which the two girls were at first) but Louisa didn’t have to do much to get them to like her (which proves how likable and fun going she was.)
As a non Christian reader, there are moments of the book where it gets preachy but it’s to be expected and one can gloss over those parts. It’s not extremely central to the book if you’re there to just read for the romance and the characters.
I’m looking forward to reading the next few books and I hope they cover the rest of the characters at the fort. I’d love to know more about their stories and hope they find the same happiness Daniel and Louisa did. :)
But my oh my the romance in this book was excellent! The things Daniel does was enough to make you swoon. The chemistry he had with Louisa was also very well done and although there were a few frustrating moments were Louisa could just tell Daniel outright what the truth was, I guess it had to be dragged out to make the story complete (albeit not necessary. You sort of knew what was going to happen once Daniel found out the whole story.)
Louisa is also very likable and her willingness to change paths is admirable and fun to read. I was hoping for two hellions for her to deal with (which the two girls were at first) but Louisa didn’t have to do much to get them to like her (which proves how likable and fun going she was.)
As a non Christian reader, there are moments of the book where it gets preachy but it’s to be expected and one can gloss over those parts. It’s not extremely central to the book if you’re there to just read for the romance and the characters.
I’m looking forward to reading the next few books and I hope they cover the rest of the characters at the fort. I’d love to know more about their stories and hope they find the same happiness Daniel and Louisa did. :)
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated Cowl Girls: The Neck's Big Thing to Knit in Books
Apr 27, 2018
You may be asking, "What on earth is a Cowl?" Up until I saw this book, I had no idea. A Cowl is like a hat without a top that sits around your neck, a scarf that is connected at both ends, a super-thick necklace that keeps you warm—or cool—and looks fashionable and sophisticated at the same time. Some of the patterns cover just your neck, while others cover neck and shoulders. My favorite is a hood that transfers into a neck-shoulder sort of warmer. And it has buttons on it. How much better can you get?
Everyone needs something to keep their neck warm when it's cold, and long rectangles are a little old and, honestly, a little boring. There aren't that many different ways you can knit a scarf. But there are a million different things you can do with a Cowl, a million different looks you can go for, and a million different variations you can do with each of the 41 patterns in this book.
If you can't tell by the photos on the cover, they're all pretty unique. Tweak decor and color schemes and you have literally endless possibilities.
Along with the cowl patterns, there are some pointers and some tips on what makes a good cowl, different ways you can knit them, how to convert patterns, and a page of resources.
I am so excited about this book. Although there are some situations that certainly call for a scarf—and some scarves that demand to be worn—cowls are an exciting change that meet a need and manage to look stylish and fresh at the same time. Cowl Girls will escort you into "the neck's big thing to knit."
The patterns themselves are diverse and versatile. There is a pattern in here for everyone, hitting every style you could possibly aim for. The difficulty level ranges from beginner to advanced.
Recommendation: Beginner through advanced knitters.
Everyone needs something to keep their neck warm when it's cold, and long rectangles are a little old and, honestly, a little boring. There aren't that many different ways you can knit a scarf. But there are a million different things you can do with a Cowl, a million different looks you can go for, and a million different variations you can do with each of the 41 patterns in this book.
If you can't tell by the photos on the cover, they're all pretty unique. Tweak decor and color schemes and you have literally endless possibilities.
Along with the cowl patterns, there are some pointers and some tips on what makes a good cowl, different ways you can knit them, how to convert patterns, and a page of resources.
I am so excited about this book. Although there are some situations that certainly call for a scarf—and some scarves that demand to be worn—cowls are an exciting change that meet a need and manage to look stylish and fresh at the same time. Cowl Girls will escort you into "the neck's big thing to knit."
The patterns themselves are diverse and versatile. There is a pattern in here for everyone, hitting every style you could possibly aim for. The difficulty level ranges from beginner to advanced.
Recommendation: Beginner through advanced knitters.
Haley Mathiot (9 KP) rated Tall, Dark and Wolfish (Westfield Wolves, #2) in Books
Apr 27, 2018
Rating: 3.75
Lord Benjamin, the youngest of the Westfeld brothers, is a broken werewolf. He can no longer change in the light of the full moon. Horrified at himself, he seeks out a healer—a witch, although he isn't sure he believes in them—and comes across the beautiful Elspeth Campbell. But in order to let Elspeth heal him, he has to tell her everything. And spilling his guts to a beautiful Scottish girl isn't the easiest thing in the world.
Elspeth isn't quite sure what to think of Lord Benjamin… especially when her sister witch, a seer, claims that he will take her away from them forever. She vows not to leave them, but when she meets him… she begins to have second thoughts. Falling in love with him hadn't been part of the plan.
Tall, Dark, and Wolfish was really cute. I adored Elspeth: she was a fun, stubborn, slightly sarcastic character who was strong in herself. And Benjamin… poor broken Benjamin who lost his wolf-ness. I loved their interactions and I loved their dialogue. I especially liked the interactions between Ben and Will, his brother. They're just… great.
The writing was satisfactory… but the accents were great. Elspeth and her witch sisters spoke in their Scottish accents, and it was written with the accent. Although it was a little hard to read at first, you can catch onto the sound of their voices quickly, and it adds to the character.
I was pleased at the plot: at first I was wondering how Dare would stretch the limited romantic plot into a full length novel, but there were a lot of aspects and sub-plots that were woven in, making it an exciting fun story.
Although, all things considered, it was just a tad sappy. But not enough to make me put it down. I think I read it through from beginning to end in about four hours.
Content/recommendation: some language, some sex. Ages 18+
Lord Benjamin, the youngest of the Westfeld brothers, is a broken werewolf. He can no longer change in the light of the full moon. Horrified at himself, he seeks out a healer—a witch, although he isn't sure he believes in them—and comes across the beautiful Elspeth Campbell. But in order to let Elspeth heal him, he has to tell her everything. And spilling his guts to a beautiful Scottish girl isn't the easiest thing in the world.
Elspeth isn't quite sure what to think of Lord Benjamin… especially when her sister witch, a seer, claims that he will take her away from them forever. She vows not to leave them, but when she meets him… she begins to have second thoughts. Falling in love with him hadn't been part of the plan.
Tall, Dark, and Wolfish was really cute. I adored Elspeth: she was a fun, stubborn, slightly sarcastic character who was strong in herself. And Benjamin… poor broken Benjamin who lost his wolf-ness. I loved their interactions and I loved their dialogue. I especially liked the interactions between Ben and Will, his brother. They're just… great.
The writing was satisfactory… but the accents were great. Elspeth and her witch sisters spoke in their Scottish accents, and it was written with the accent. Although it was a little hard to read at first, you can catch onto the sound of their voices quickly, and it adds to the character.
I was pleased at the plot: at first I was wondering how Dare would stretch the limited romantic plot into a full length novel, but there were a lot of aspects and sub-plots that were woven in, making it an exciting fun story.
Although, all things considered, it was just a tad sappy. But not enough to make me put it down. I think I read it through from beginning to end in about four hours.
Content/recommendation: some language, some sex. Ages 18+
Rachel King (13 KP) rated The Elephant Mountains in Books
Feb 11, 2019
This book is set in New Orleans and the surrounding areas, which is near where I am from, so I was intrigued by the book. The post-apocalyptic story line is reminiscent of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, but on a grander scale. The language, the culture, the people -- all are true to the New Orleans area.
Right away I was struck by the simplistic nature of the writing. This is Scott Ely's first book in the Young Adult genre, which I could easily guess from what the writing lacked. One major thing that bothered me throughout the book was Ely's habit of "telling" instead of "showing." He repeatedly made statements in the book like this: "She went on to tell him that their house was close by, on high ground, and they thought they could live upstairs." (page 38) Why couldn't Ely have written this out in dialogue. This kind of writing is littered throughout the text, and it left me feeling like I had been shorted a proper book. At a little over 200 pages in length, this book was too short for my expectations. I normally love dystopia, but this one was disappointing.
The main character Stephen was a likable character, but he seemed to be both extremely lucky and a kind of talisman for death. I understand that the conditions of the area that Stephen was traveling through were extremely dangerous with very limited resources, but did just about every single person that Stephen came across have to die? That strikes me as overkill, pardon the pun.
I also did not understand the ending. If there really was as much flooding as the radio continuously announced, then Stephen would have needed to travel much further than he did to find dry ground.
I gave the book three stars because I really liked the premise of the book, though it fell short of my expectations.
Right away I was struck by the simplistic nature of the writing. This is Scott Ely's first book in the Young Adult genre, which I could easily guess from what the writing lacked. One major thing that bothered me throughout the book was Ely's habit of "telling" instead of "showing." He repeatedly made statements in the book like this: "She went on to tell him that their house was close by, on high ground, and they thought they could live upstairs." (page 38) Why couldn't Ely have written this out in dialogue. This kind of writing is littered throughout the text, and it left me feeling like I had been shorted a proper book. At a little over 200 pages in length, this book was too short for my expectations. I normally love dystopia, but this one was disappointing.
The main character Stephen was a likable character, but he seemed to be both extremely lucky and a kind of talisman for death. I understand that the conditions of the area that Stephen was traveling through were extremely dangerous with very limited resources, but did just about every single person that Stephen came across have to die? That strikes me as overkill, pardon the pun.
I also did not understand the ending. If there really was as much flooding as the radio continuously announced, then Stephen would have needed to travel much further than he did to find dry ground.
I gave the book three stars because I really liked the premise of the book, though it fell short of my expectations.
I'm married to my best friend. That's what I tell people who don't know me and want to know who my husband is. He's my best friend. When we met, I was leery of another relationship. My first marriage was not the greatest. Too many bad things happening. I didn't trust any guy. But, my husband patiently persisted and one day I took a leap of Faith after praying hard, and 4 years later we are still married. Do we fight? Oh Lord, do we ever! But, one thing I can say is we stay friends through it all. We work our problems out. We seek advice if we need it. We never give up.
Kevin A. Thompson is an author I'd not heard of before, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect with this book, especially with it being a non fiction book. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! He takes three key aspects to making a marriage work and tells us why they work. It's definitely something I have taken to heart and really want to work on with my husband! The way Mr. Thompson describes these aspects really make me reflect on my marriage now. Four years of happiness with my best friend, sure. But, there is more that we can be doing to really make it work.
This is a 4 star worthy book, in my opinion! I enjoyed his writing style, as it makes it easy to read this non fiction book and to not get bored reading it. If you are in a happy marriage, or a marriage that you aren't sure if it's going to make it, then I highly recommend this read! It will help you think and reflect on what your doing now, and what could improve it. Definitely a great partner read with your spouse! <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/review-friends-partners-and-lovers-what-it-takes-to-make-your-marriage-work-by-kevin-a-thompson/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Kevin A. Thompson is an author I'd not heard of before, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect with this book, especially with it being a non fiction book. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! He takes three key aspects to making a marriage work and tells us why they work. It's definitely something I have taken to heart and really want to work on with my husband! The way Mr. Thompson describes these aspects really make me reflect on my marriage now. Four years of happiness with my best friend, sure. But, there is more that we can be doing to really make it work.
This is a 4 star worthy book, in my opinion! I enjoyed his writing style, as it makes it easy to read this non fiction book and to not get bored reading it. If you are in a happy marriage, or a marriage that you aren't sure if it's going to make it, then I highly recommend this read! It will help you think and reflect on what your doing now, and what could improve it. Definitely a great partner read with your spouse! <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/review-friends-partners-and-lovers-what-it-takes-to-make-your-marriage-work-by-kevin-a-thompson/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Sam (74 KP) rated The Poet X in Books
Mar 27, 2019
I actually didn’t flick through the book before buying it, so I didn’t realise that the whole story is told through poems. I was a bit unsure with this to begin with because I tend to struggle quite a bit with understanding poetry, but I was glad to see that this was really easy to understand!
I wish I’d had this when I decided that I really hated poetry throughout school and college because I feel that this teaches how form and structure can change the mood a poem better than any teacher can explain it to you. The form is constantly changing throughout the book and it always reflects the poet’s mood, which I found fascinating.
I do feel that the format did hold the plot back a bit, mainly because the plot had room for development but I felt that it was held back by being written in poetry format. There were a few parts that remained ambiguous because of the format meaning that events were sometimes lacking in detail.
I loved X, she’s strong and won’t let anyone tell her what to do, and she really just needs some love. However, it did annoy me how Aman took her back straight away after the way she treated him. I found that part frustrating because she acted horribly to him, but he seemed to just not care. I also wondered how she even had friends with the way she treated people around her. I understand that she had family problems, but she was absolutely horrible to some of her friends but they still stuck by her.
Even though I did get frustrated by these things, it didn’t stop me from enjoying the novel. The format made it fun and I did somehow finish it all in one day because it had me hooked.
It’s definitely worth reading, especially if you are into poetry – or even if you’re not!
I wish I’d had this when I decided that I really hated poetry throughout school and college because I feel that this teaches how form and structure can change the mood a poem better than any teacher can explain it to you. The form is constantly changing throughout the book and it always reflects the poet’s mood, which I found fascinating.
I do feel that the format did hold the plot back a bit, mainly because the plot had room for development but I felt that it was held back by being written in poetry format. There were a few parts that remained ambiguous because of the format meaning that events were sometimes lacking in detail.
I loved X, she’s strong and won’t let anyone tell her what to do, and she really just needs some love. However, it did annoy me how Aman took her back straight away after the way she treated him. I found that part frustrating because she acted horribly to him, but he seemed to just not care. I also wondered how she even had friends with the way she treated people around her. I understand that she had family problems, but she was absolutely horrible to some of her friends but they still stuck by her.
Even though I did get frustrated by these things, it didn’t stop me from enjoying the novel. The format made it fun and I did somehow finish it all in one day because it had me hooked.
It’s definitely worth reading, especially if you are into poetry – or even if you’re not!
Because I had always loved the film, I knew that the book would definitely be for me – and I wasn’t disappointed. With Matilda, I had always loved that there was a bookish character. And while I was reading this, I realised that there aren’t nearly enough bookish characters in books. Books should be full of book-loving characters as they are instantly relatable to anyone reading the books. This is why I have always related to Matilda as a character.
Matilda never tries to hide her intelligence, and I love that. It’s something that a lot of adults can’t do. I was even saying to one of my friends at work that I act more ditsy than I actually am when I’m there. I’ve always hidden parts of myself because I want to fit in. Matilda doesn’t even try to fit in with everyone else, even though she excels everyone around her. I think everyone could learn a lesson about personalities from Matilda.
I love that she goes against the crowd. When everyone around her is trying to tell her that she can’t possibly be as smart as she is and that she is worthless, she defies them every time. She doesn’t dumb herself down and try to become like everyone else just to avoid people making fun of her.
The best thing about Matilda is that the book stays funny and entertaining all the way through. Even at the worse parts it never drops it’s humour, which makes it perfect for kids.
The happy ending is like the icing on the cake for me. I’m a sucker for happy endings, but I feel like this one was perfect. It felt like a fairytale.
If you enjoyed the film, you need to buy the book. It’s ten times better than the film and has so many important messages to both adults and children.
Matilda never tries to hide her intelligence, and I love that. It’s something that a lot of adults can’t do. I was even saying to one of my friends at work that I act more ditsy than I actually am when I’m there. I’ve always hidden parts of myself because I want to fit in. Matilda doesn’t even try to fit in with everyone else, even though she excels everyone around her. I think everyone could learn a lesson about personalities from Matilda.
I love that she goes against the crowd. When everyone around her is trying to tell her that she can’t possibly be as smart as she is and that she is worthless, she defies them every time. She doesn’t dumb herself down and try to become like everyone else just to avoid people making fun of her.
The best thing about Matilda is that the book stays funny and entertaining all the way through. Even at the worse parts it never drops it’s humour, which makes it perfect for kids.
The happy ending is like the icing on the cake for me. I’m a sucker for happy endings, but I feel like this one was perfect. It felt like a fairytale.
If you enjoyed the film, you need to buy the book. It’s ten times better than the film and has so many important messages to both adults and children.
Merissa (13169 KP) rated Face of the Wave (Ryder Bay #3) in Books
Apr 1, 2019
Face of the Wave (Ryder Bay #3) by Jordan Ford
Face of the Wave is the third book in the Ryder Bay series, and we finally find out what happened with Skylar. She comes round at the beginning of the book, and is understandably very confused. She goes along with how her parents, and everyone, expect her to be, but she knows something isn't right. She just can't figure out what it is yet. Jed has been there for Skylar whilst she was in a coma, but now she's awake, Jed is sure she won't want someone like him.
This book deals with some serious issues, that I thought were excellently written. Skylar not only has her physical recovery to deal with, but she also has to figure out the black hole in her mind, plus decide on how she wants to be around others. The new group take her under their wings, and with Jed's help, Skylar is prepared to tell all.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I'm so very glad my guess of the 'big bad' was correct! However, I did feel that Skylar's problem (while HUGE) actually overshadowed the romance part with Jed. Although I can see them as incredibly good, close, friends. I just can't see them as a couple. That saddens me, as I really wanted Jed to get his HEA, and he does. He does get it here, but for the first time ever with one of Ms. Ford's books, I just don't get it.
Even though this story didn't quite work for me, I still have no hesitation in recommending it! Remember, this is just my opinion, and I am sure many out there will think differently. A fantastic story, great characters, and wonderful scenery! Go on, try this series for yourself.
* 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!
This book deals with some serious issues, that I thought were excellently written. Skylar not only has her physical recovery to deal with, but she also has to figure out the black hole in her mind, plus decide on how she wants to be around others. The new group take her under their wings, and with Jed's help, Skylar is prepared to tell all.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I'm so very glad my guess of the 'big bad' was correct! However, I did feel that Skylar's problem (while HUGE) actually overshadowed the romance part with Jed. Although I can see them as incredibly good, close, friends. I just can't see them as a couple. That saddens me, as I really wanted Jed to get his HEA, and he does. He does get it here, but for the first time ever with one of Ms. Ford's books, I just don't get it.
Even though this story didn't quite work for me, I still have no hesitation in recommending it! Remember, this is just my opinion, and I am sure many out there will think differently. A fantastic story, great characters, and wonderful scenery! Go on, try this series for yourself.
* 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!
Lindsay (1774 KP) rated The Ghost of Mavis in Books
Apr 9, 2019
The Ghost of Mavis had me intuited by wanting to know what it was about. Was it a mother that died with a young girl. There a mystery to it that you are pondering from the minute you start reading.
Mavis shows up at the Pearly gates in a wedding dress. Why and what reason. Mary Lynn Plaisance write the story well. This is her first book, that I have read. She leaves you guessing and pondering about a little girl. Who is this little girl and what is she waiting for? All we know at the beginning Mavis as died and is at the age of 88. What her angels tell her is, that she miss her lick and was to marry again.
Mavis is confused but are we as well? She also wonders why she wears a wedding dress. She wants to go back to earth to be born into a rich family. When she goes to ask, her angels she's going back to earth on a mission. To do that she will go back as a ghost and her angel Anna will help her until she finds this James Windsor.
You start to wonder what life is after death. Where do we go? Is it a belief that we reincarnate back to our family or do we stay in haven. That you will have to decide. Mary does a splendid job with this and talking about the afterlife. I would suggest if you enjoy paranormal fan or even a little mystery fan this is a good book to read. I recommend it to read.
The book is well written and few mistakes. I believe a may have caught one mistake in the entire book. It was probably one that got the word misplaced not even spell wrong when editing, it wonderful. I hope to read more by Mary Lynn Plaisance.
Mavis shows up at the Pearly gates in a wedding dress. Why and what reason. Mary Lynn Plaisance write the story well. This is her first book, that I have read. She leaves you guessing and pondering about a little girl. Who is this little girl and what is she waiting for? All we know at the beginning Mavis as died and is at the age of 88. What her angels tell her is, that she miss her lick and was to marry again.
Mavis is confused but are we as well? She also wonders why she wears a wedding dress. She wants to go back to earth to be born into a rich family. When she goes to ask, her angels she's going back to earth on a mission. To do that she will go back as a ghost and her angel Anna will help her until she finds this James Windsor.
You start to wonder what life is after death. Where do we go? Is it a belief that we reincarnate back to our family or do we stay in haven. That you will have to decide. Mary does a splendid job with this and talking about the afterlife. I would suggest if you enjoy paranormal fan or even a little mystery fan this is a good book to read. I recommend it to read.
The book is well written and few mistakes. I believe a may have caught one mistake in the entire book. It was probably one that got the word misplaced not even spell wrong when editing, it wonderful. I hope to read more by Mary Lynn Plaisance.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2395 KP) rated Lights! Camera! Puzzles! in Books
Apr 25, 2019
Puzzling Murder on a Movie Set
Cora Felton, famed Puzzle Lady, is having her worst nightmare come true when a tell all book from her least favorite ex-husband becomes a bestseller and gets turned into a movie. She agrees to become an associate producer on the film in hopes of control some of the damage even if it means she has to spend time with her least favorite ex-husband on a daily basis. Before things can even get started, however, tragedy visits the set when a production assistant is killed. The police aren’t sure what to make of it, but Cora isn’t that concerned since it has nothing to do with her. However, as things continue to go wrong on the film, she begins to take a more active interest. Can she figure out who is behind everything happening?
As a longtime fan of the series, I was looking forward to Cora’s latest adventure only to find myself disappointed. The star of the series has always been the witty dialogue between Cora and the rest of the characters. I did laugh some, but I found most of it lacking the spark of the better books in the series. The plot is really a series of events, although Cora does get a clue at the end that helps her put things together. We spend most of the book in New York City on various locations, which leaves the series regulars on the sideline, and the new characters aren’t strong enough to carry the book. We do get a new crossword and Sudoku to solve as we read. This is one of those books where it is easy to pick on the shortcomings, but I was entertained as I breezed through the book. Still, this is one only for fans who need Cora’s latest adventure. Those new to the series won’t enjoy the book.
As a longtime fan of the series, I was looking forward to Cora’s latest adventure only to find myself disappointed. The star of the series has always been the witty dialogue between Cora and the rest of the characters. I did laugh some, but I found most of it lacking the spark of the better books in the series. The plot is really a series of events, although Cora does get a clue at the end that helps her put things together. We spend most of the book in New York City on various locations, which leaves the series regulars on the sideline, and the new characters aren’t strong enough to carry the book. We do get a new crossword and Sudoku to solve as we read. This is one of those books where it is easy to pick on the shortcomings, but I was entertained as I breezed through the book. Still, this is one only for fans who need Cora’s latest adventure. Those new to the series won’t enjoy the book.