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Slaughter and Forgetting (Josef Slonsky Investigations #2)
Slaughter and Forgetting (Josef Slonsky Investigations #2)
Graham Brack | 2018 | Crime, Mystery
10
10.0 (3 Ratings)
Book Rating
Another great Slonsky book!!
In my opinion, Slonsky just seems to get better and better. He’s lazy, sarcastic and constantly drinking beer and eating anything that isn’t regarded as healthy.
This time, he’s solving a thirty year old murder, after an elderly ex-policeman asks him to reopen the case. This appears unlikely to happen, until Holoubek (the elderly policeman) is killed in a hit and run.
We’re introduced to a new character, Peiperova, a female police officer, who Navratil certainly has a soft spot for. I think she is going to feature a lot in the books that follow!
There’s a lot of humour in this book, especially the darker variety. We are given an insight in to the communist past of the Czech Republic and Slovakia, and it isn’t all nice. Some is quite amusing though: a trade deal with Hungary that involved trading Hi-Fi’s for toasters!!
For all Slonsky’s apparent laziness, he is actually very good at what he does. He has a moral code - he hates to see people get hurt, and a lot of thought goes into this case (even if it is done whilst sat in a bar, beer in hand!).
I’m a big fan of Slonsky. I love his fast wit, and the way that he tries to cover up a razor sharp mind - with a camouflage of pastries, beer and sausage!
I’ll be adding the next Slonsky book to my kindle ASAP!
Many thanks to Sapere books for my copy of this great book.
  
Bad Daddy (Unexpected Daddies #3)
Bad Daddy (Unexpected Daddies #3)
Victoria Sue | 2021 | LGBTQ+, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
best of the three, I reckon!
I was gifted my copy of this book direct from the author, and I thank Ms Sue very much for that!

This is book 3 in the Unexpected Daddies series, and I read book 2 AFTER this one, so you don't need to have read those two book before this one. Those guys pop up, but you don't need to have read their stories to follow Max and Caleb's.

Caleb isn't a Daddy, but he finds himself drawn to Max. Max who wants someone to cause him pain. Max who brings all kinds of feelings out of Caleb he didn't know he had. But Caleb can't hurt anyone, even if they want it.

I loved this book, I inhaled it, totally and utterly. I'm not a rereader, not at all, but I find myself unwilling to let these two go!

Caleb is atoning for his sins in a previous life. He can't hurt anyone again, even if Max is looking for that. What Caleb wants to do, is look after Max. In a way he wasn't aware he needed to. In a way that surprsies him, totally. It surprises Max too, how much he likes being looked after, how much Caleb makes him really feel. He hasn't felt much in a long, long time, but Caleb is pushing buttons he didn't know he needed pushing. And as much as he likes it, it scares him too.

The attraction they share is instant, but the relationship builds over time, and I loved the build up, the development that these two go through to be together. they understand what they are feeling is new to them both, different to what they usually want, but they work at it and it really is beautiful reading, that working at it.

I quote from my review for One Cup Of Daddy And A Dash of Love: "This is about learning what you need to be for your partner, and what they need from you." And that perfectly sums up this book too. I didn't feel that so much for book 2 though (I read it, but didn't write a review, bad me!)

Cup of Daddy is a sweet book, almost rot your teeth, kinda sweet. THIS book is not sweet, not at all. But what it is, is a beautifully written story about going for what and who you want, even if they are far out of your comfort zone. It's about two men realising what THEY need, and what the other needs, even if neither knew before.

Thank you, Ms Sue, for this book. I really loved it! Best of the three, I reckon!

5 full and shiny stars

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
  
Forever Princeton Charming
Forever Princeton Charming
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
When I finished Losing Princeton Charming, I had to immediately start reading this book. Losing left me with such a cliff hanger, I had to see what was going to happen next.

Forever Princeton Charming starts with Charlie being in the hospital after a car accident. She thinks her best friend may have something to do with the accident, but that can't be right. Together she and Spencer are determined to find out who could of tried to hurt Charlie and why. They have had so much backlash against their relationship already, this last thing is just the icing on the cake.

Thank you to C.M. Seabrook and Frankie Love for the opportunity to read and review this book.

I thoroughly enjoyed this entire series from start to finish. These last two books had me crying and laughing.

Trying to maintain a relationship when it seems the whole world against you is next to impossible. But when you love someone, you try your best to defeat the odds and go for what you want. Charlie and Spencer are no exception. Their families don't want them together, their friends don't want them together and society dictates that because they come from two different socioeconomic classes they shouldn't be together. You can't help who you fall in love with and who is going to make you the best version of yourself no matter what life throws at you.

I think Charlie and Spencer did what they had to do in order to be together. Forget the haters and naysayers. If you like a romance series with ups and downs and twists and turns, I suggest you go and pick up the Princeton Charming series right away. These books are sure to leave you with all kinds of emotions.
  
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Dana (24 KP) rated The Raven King in Books

Mar 23, 2018  
The Raven King
The Raven King
Maggie Stiefvater | 2016 | LGBTQ+, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Young Adult (YA)
10
8.3 (15 Ratings)
Book Rating
I am actually giving this a 4.5-5 Star review.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this series. I have loved and lost characters and little bits of my heart and soul because of it.

This series, but specifically this book, is just so beautifully written. Every moment is circular in the end. Each character is written with so much care, affection, and love that it breaks my heart.

Maggie Stiefvater is a poet as well as an author. There were so many passages in this book that I underlined as being so beautiful. I cried a lot because of the writing style, in a good way.

Many of the event in this book had been foretold in the previous books, which I thought was cool. Even though we knew what was going to happen, we didn't exactly know how it would happen, so that was surprising and a lot of fun.

Henry Cheng was a surprising character to say the least. I didn't know how I felt about him at first, but he started to grow on me. (As Ronan would probably say, "like a fungus" because he's a smartass like that.)

***THE REST OF THIS WILL HAVE SPOILERS IN IT SO BE WARNED***

I loved how my ships were resolved in the end. I didn't want anyone to be hurt or to be alone, and they weren't. Blue and Gansey are just so freaking cute together because they are so opposite! And Ronan and Adam are just hilarious in their interactions. They just seem so angry at each other so often.

I was really sad, but also understanding, of how Noah had to move on. I just thought he was so sweet, but it was his time.

Also, the whole mess with Glendower himself was not easily predictable at all, at least for me. I did not see that one coming. Their whole quest was for not, but they ended up better for it anyway.

Orphan Girl is also so adorable. I love how much like Ronan she is, especially in her temper.

Cabeswater being from Ronan, that was a twist. Also, loved how he is going to dream another one!!

I just love this book so much and even though I know it has to end, I don't want it to.

Sorry if this got a bit rambly and weird, I just have so many emotions about this book!!
  
Sauvignon and a Kimono by DYLYN
Sauvignon and a Kimono by DYLYN
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
DYLYN is a talented singer-songwriter based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Not too long ago, she released a music video for her emo-pop tune, entitled, “Secret”.

“My life was turned upside down and, as a result, this song emerged. ‘Secret’ became therapeutic. It gave me a chance to connect with people, with my fans whose parents also split up due to infidelity. It became a way of reaffirming for myself and others—‘You are not the only one going through this.’” – DYLYN

‘Secret’ tells a bitter tale of a young woman who finds out that her father has been cheating on her mother.

Since then, she hasn’t slept in days and wonders if her mother knows about the other woman in her father’s life.


Later, after everything is out in the open, she painfully admits that her mother won’t love her father ever again, but she will still love him, even though he hurt them.

“At first, I was hesitant to write about such a personal story. But as the lyrics started to unfold, everything fell into place. I recorded ‘Secret’ in a dimly lit vocal booth. I wanted to be in a headspace where I could feel alone with myself, and deliver the lyrics from the most honest place that I possibly could.” – DYLYN

‘Secret’ contains a gripping storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with a dark commercial pop aroma.

The likable tune is featured on DYLYN’s debut EP, entitled, “Sauvignon and a Kimono”.

“I’m very excited to get this music out and tour again. This record is going to be much more raw, and I want to put all my emotions on the table. ‘Secret’ gave me the courage to do that.” – DYLYN
  
The Year of No Rules
The Year of No Rules
Rose McClelland | 2020 | Contemporary, Humor & Comedy, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
The blurb of this book, describes it quite accurately, however, there is way more to this book. It goes through all the parts of the relationship: love, separation, depression, acceptance and moving on.

The main characters of this book were Sasha and Kirk, later joined by Sam. The whole narrative was told only from Sasha’s perspective, so we have to believe of how Sasha portrayed them and don’t really have an insight into their personalities to judge them ourselves. Even though Sasha was the lead in this story, my favorite character in this book was Sam. I honestly liked him for his charisma, understanding nature, and all women should have a partner like him. Some of Sasha’s actions really annoyed me, it’s like watching a horror movie, where the actress is going to a dark cellar willingly when we know she is going to die. In these cases, I really want to shout to her “danger, don’t go!”/ “don’t be stupid, you are going to die!”, but the actress still does it and gets hurt in the end… Why Sasha? Why?

The whole book was divided into three parts: “The year with rules”; “After Kirk”; “The year of no rules”. In the first part, Sasha was sharing her life with Kirk. How their dates used to go, what Kirk did in the past, and how she loved to spoil him. In the second part, Sasha was telling how she was dealing (or not) with her life after Kirk walked off. She shared he sorrows, memories, and how Kirk was psychologically tormenting her even many months after their break up. (Sasha why did you allow it? WHY?) In the third part, Sasha started to gather her life again, by setting little goals to fight her major depression and finding a fantastic man.

The plot of this novel often jumped between past and present through Sasha’s memories about Kirk and their relationship. What I loved the most about this book, was the topics which McClelland discussed in this book: the danger of controlling partners; forgiving person even after grand betrayal; major depression and how people can fight it; how to deal with broken trust. I think this book can really help women who were/are in Sasha’s situation and need help, I think it could be a guide to taking those first steps to help yourself.

The writing style of this book was pleasant and really easy to read, with short chapters, which made it a great weekend read. It has a nice ending to the book, I would say realistic ending, not “happily ever after” one, which you can read in most fiction books. So, to conclude, even though there are many, many Sasha’s actions which made me question “Woman, why would you do this?”, I loved this book because it is funny, carries a strong message, and how relate-able it can be to some people. I do recommend it to all chick lit fans, and to all who are going through a nasty break up. Enjoy! :)

Was given this book by the author for honest review.
  
Fascinating
I don’t often choose to read non-fiction books, I’m not entirely sure why except for the fact that I prefer escaping the real world. However there are some real life topics that really grab me, and forensic pathology is definitely one of those areas.

This book is truly a fascinating read. It’s an interesting mixture detailing Richard Shepherd’s personal life and the many cases he’s had involvement in over the years. It balances these two aspects very well, and I found I was as interested in his personal life as I was in the cases. It is the cases though that take precedence in this book and Shepherd really has left no stone unturned. There is an immense amount of detail in this about the deaths, bodies, medical terms and outcomes of the cases, and by the end of the book you feel completely satisfied that nothing has been missed.

Shepherd has had a truly impressive career, spanning a number of decades and quite a lot of high profile cases and inquests; Stephen Lawrence, Princess Diana, 9/11, 7/7, Derrick Bird, Harold Shipman. His involvement in all of these cases is impressive and with some, I’ve learnt a fair amount that I’d never known previously (i.e. Diana’s cause of death and the pathology side of 9/11). Shepherd is obviously a very knowledgeable and respected pathologist and it shows from his experience and his writing.

I may be biased as forensics, crime and pathology have always been an interest of mine (I did my dissertation at university on alternatives to traditional post-mortems), but this book is engaging, intriguing and beyond fascinating. I’d liken it to This is Going to Hurt by Adam McKay, obviously this is a lot more serious without the funny anecdotes but if you enjoyed the medical side then you’d probably enjoy this too.
  
Show all 3 comments.
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Sarah (7798 KP) Oct 18, 2020

Ooh thank you, I've never even heard of it so I'll give it a go 🙂

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AJaneClark (3962 KP) Oct 18, 2020

I have been reading a lot of this style of book, and stumbled across Corrupt Bodies in the Works. Definitely an eye opener

There is so much going on in this book, I honestly don't know where to start! Okay, deep breath, here we go.

First of all, Rissa - she is feisty, sassy, honest, truthful and forthright. I love her. When she literally tumbles into the lap of Spencer, she knows that she wants to know him more so goes for it. I loved this bit about her and, to be fair, Spencer was a real grump at this point in the book so when she refused to take his **** and met him head-on, I was cheering for her.

Spence - wow, there is so much more to this guy than you originally thing. The quiet, geeky, artist man is just a façade. Trust me, as you read through this book, you will be amazed at the 180 he pulls, and you will be swept away with it just like Rissa was/is.

There are lots of supporting characters in here too that each deserve a mention, but this isn't the Oscars, so I won't. What I will say is that each do their job very well, allowing you to get to know the main characters in different situations, without being overpowering.

Our two main characters are 'real'! They have their faults, their ups and downs. One of my favourite bits of the book is when Rissa is curled up due to her monthly onslaught. I could so relate to this, I'm sure most women could, but it's not something usually written about. Spencer has a temper but Rissa isn't afraid of it. She knows that Spencer wouldn't hurt her, so gives him the space he needs to regain his equilibrium.

The levels of mystery and suspense layer on as you read through. I think I know who the mysterious voice is, but I'm not saying as I'm sure I'll be wrong! There are just too many twists, turns and possibilities right now.

Exceedingly well-written, with an intricate, interesting plot, smoothly paced and HOT, this was one enjoyable read! I can't wait for book 2 to come out already.

Please note that no dogs were actually forced to listen to a Justin Bieber CD in the making of this book!

* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
  
Alpha's Fingerling Surprize (The Weird & Wacky World of Shifters #2)
Alpha's Fingerling Surprize (The Weird & Wacky World of Shifters #2)
JP Sayle | 2022 | LGBTQ+, Paranormal, Romance
8
8.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
The potatoes are back, and this time, they're sprouting!
If you enjoyed the first book in this series, then you surely will also enjoy ALPHA'S FINGERLING SUPRIZE. It is time for Russ and Olowin to work out all their misunderstandings and hurt. We also get to catch up with Tala and Frenchie, plus their twins.

I know it's not to everyone's taste, but I do love these potato shifters! And it just goes to show how information can be withheld that really needs to be shared! Maybe if all the potatoes knew about the sprouts... well, it would be a whole different story, is all I'm saying.

Russ and Olowin are solid, once they get over their mutual hurts, and I was so happy to see that. The rest of the pack, however, has some issues. And it's not all cleared up here either. I am fully invested in this pack and the wolves (and potatoes) that live there. I can't wait for more stories, especially if they are as hot as this one.

Speaking of which, Olowin and Russ have a very healthy attraction to each other, but it isn't always referred to in detail. Sometimes, it is enough to know what's going on. Besides, Tala was traumatised enough for everyone!

A brilliant addition to the series that leaves me wanting more. Thoroughly enjoyed every word and looking forward to the next. Definitely 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!
  
Freaks (2018)
Freaks (2018)
2018 | Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
A young girl is seing looking through the window, everything looks to be at a stand still including the birds in the sky which appear to be paused mid flight. Her dad stops her and tells her that being seen would not be safe. Their house appears run down, there's no electricity and chloe and her dad keep practicing random scenarios on staying safe. There's not much going on but clearly something isn't right.
One day a young girl called Harper brings chloe an ice cream, but because she somehow knew chloes name, chloes dad assumed she had been outside and punishes her by locking her in the closet where chloe seemingly now has harper as an imaginary friend.
Chloes dad promises to get her ice cream if she never opens the door again, but when he returns he is injured and passes out. Chloe takes this opportunity to leave the house and befriends the ice cream man parked outside who turns out to be her grandfather, he informs chloe that she is special and her and him are going to try and bring her mum back.
From then on the movie gets weirder and weirder, chloe keeps seing different people in her closet including a sleep over at harpers House, and her mum chained up, she is also able to get inside peoples heads and force them to do things.
I found the movie took far too long to get to a point, 40 minutes to find out what freaks were and about an hour to find out about the powers and what they're capable of, and the ending...... Well I don't even understand what was going on there. If you don't like your brain to hurt during a movie I would stay clear.