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Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated A Lady's Virtue (Everton Domestic Society, #3) in Books
May 22, 2019
Can a broken engagement ignite the spark of true love?
Sylvia Dowder had almost made it to the altar when her fiancé unexpectedly became a viscount, and dropped her like a stale crumpet to make a more "suitable" match. Though Sylvia's heart has been crushed, her spirit has not. She puts her wits and social savvy to use as a secret gossip columnistand as the Everton Domestic Society's party planner to the ton. Luckily, she's not in danger of ever falling for an aristocrat again
Especially not one like Anthony Braighton, Earl of Grafton. Raised in America, Anthony sees no reason to marry when he can enjoy all the perks of being an eligible earl. Determined to convince his family he doesn't need a wife, he hires Sylvia to act as hostess and decorator for upcoming parties. Yet Sylvia is as adept at captivating his interest as she is at beautifying his home. And despite this Everton lady's aversion to titled men, some attractions can't be deniedand love rarely does go where it's told.
A Lady's Virtue by A.S. Fenichel is book Three in the Everton Domestic Society Series. This is the story of Sylvia Dowder and Anthony Braighton, Earl of Grafton. This can be a standalone book.
This is an enjoyable addition to the Everton Domestic Society series. Everton is an employment agency of sorts. They provide ladies to perform tasks such as introducing a debutant to society, planning events, matchmaking, etc. for their clients. All of the proprieties are met and the ladies are provided with chaperones, transportation, etc. during the performance of their tasks. They also live at Everton House.
Sylvia Dowder is the Everton Domestic Society's party planner to the ton. She has decided never to marry after having endured a scandal 3 weeks before she was to marry, being told by her fiancé that she wasn't good enough for him now that he had a title.
Anthony Braighton, Earl of Grafton, hires Sylvia to redecorate his homes, as well as to plan a ball and be his hostess. He has also decided that he's too young to marry and wants to enjoy life and travel with no attachments.
I absolutely loved these characters and they even had some fun banter between them. The writing was exactly what I wanted; shifting perspectives done right.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Lady Sylvia is talented, spunky and will take no nonsense from anyone. She befuddles the new Earl, but also intrigues him.
Highly recommend reading!
I received an ARC download of this story via NetGalley and this is a voluntary review.
Sylvia Dowder had almost made it to the altar when her fiancé unexpectedly became a viscount, and dropped her like a stale crumpet to make a more "suitable" match. Though Sylvia's heart has been crushed, her spirit has not. She puts her wits and social savvy to use as a secret gossip columnistand as the Everton Domestic Society's party planner to the ton. Luckily, she's not in danger of ever falling for an aristocrat again
Especially not one like Anthony Braighton, Earl of Grafton. Raised in America, Anthony sees no reason to marry when he can enjoy all the perks of being an eligible earl. Determined to convince his family he doesn't need a wife, he hires Sylvia to act as hostess and decorator for upcoming parties. Yet Sylvia is as adept at captivating his interest as she is at beautifying his home. And despite this Everton lady's aversion to titled men, some attractions can't be deniedand love rarely does go where it's told.
A Lady's Virtue by A.S. Fenichel is book Three in the Everton Domestic Society Series. This is the story of Sylvia Dowder and Anthony Braighton, Earl of Grafton. This can be a standalone book.
This is an enjoyable addition to the Everton Domestic Society series. Everton is an employment agency of sorts. They provide ladies to perform tasks such as introducing a debutant to society, planning events, matchmaking, etc. for their clients. All of the proprieties are met and the ladies are provided with chaperones, transportation, etc. during the performance of their tasks. They also live at Everton House.
Sylvia Dowder is the Everton Domestic Society's party planner to the ton. She has decided never to marry after having endured a scandal 3 weeks before she was to marry, being told by her fiancé that she wasn't good enough for him now that he had a title.
Anthony Braighton, Earl of Grafton, hires Sylvia to redecorate his homes, as well as to plan a ball and be his hostess. He has also decided that he's too young to marry and wants to enjoy life and travel with no attachments.
I absolutely loved these characters and they even had some fun banter between them. The writing was exactly what I wanted; shifting perspectives done right.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Lady Sylvia is talented, spunky and will take no nonsense from anyone. She befuddles the new Earl, but also intrigues him.
Highly recommend reading!
I received an ARC download of this story via NetGalley and this is a voluntary review.
Becs (244 KP) rated Angel Land in Books
Jun 6, 2019
Interesting yet lacking
My rating: ☆☆☆.5
Review:
I was sent a final copy of Angel Land by PS Scott to read and review for my honest opinion. Thank you to Indiegram Book Tours and PS Scott for sending me a final copy.
Angel Land follows a thirteen year old boy named Gabriel Perez and his journey to try to become a ruling archangel. He is wingless and that adds to multiple of difficult bumps throughout the story. When it comes to take the GTEE, Gabriel ends up failing. But what he doesn’t expect in to get chosen to enter the Z Guild. But he soon gets attacked and put in protective custody in the Holy Guild. This all leads to Gabriel making a few friends, going on a few adventures, finding out the truth, and having to choose sides.
“There are some moments you spend all your life dreaming of so much that they become a quasi-reality. You see them when you wake up, you see them when you go to sleep, you see them when you close your eyes, and you see them when you open your eyes. You begin living in the dream, seeing the same vision for years, desperately hoping it’ll come true but never expecting it to. When dreams meet reality the collision is so powerful there are no words to describe it.”
Reasons why I rated it 3.5 stars:
1. The plot:
I felt the plot was lacking a bit and did discover a few plot holes. Really took away from the story as I was confused in a few parts.
2. My enjoyment:
I really enjoyed reading Angel Land. But I probably won’t reread as it’s not typically something that I would read.
3. Character and story development:
There was not really as much development that I felt was needed. The character development was yet wasn’t there and the story had some development, but lacked a bit in parts.
4. Grammar and spelling:
There were quite a bit of spelling and grammatical errors that it took away from the story. My brain was automatically correcting parts and other parts of the story I had to reread more than once so I could understand what was going on.
5. The overall story:
I enjoyed Angel Land but because it lacked in parts, it slithered closer and closer to the unenjoyable state. The story was there, it just needed a bit more added to it to make it one hundred percent.
“Fear is the most debilitating thing in the world, but if you can face your greatest fear, you become invincible.”
Review:
I was sent a final copy of Angel Land by PS Scott to read and review for my honest opinion. Thank you to Indiegram Book Tours and PS Scott for sending me a final copy.
Angel Land follows a thirteen year old boy named Gabriel Perez and his journey to try to become a ruling archangel. He is wingless and that adds to multiple of difficult bumps throughout the story. When it comes to take the GTEE, Gabriel ends up failing. But what he doesn’t expect in to get chosen to enter the Z Guild. But he soon gets attacked and put in protective custody in the Holy Guild. This all leads to Gabriel making a few friends, going on a few adventures, finding out the truth, and having to choose sides.
“There are some moments you spend all your life dreaming of so much that they become a quasi-reality. You see them when you wake up, you see them when you go to sleep, you see them when you close your eyes, and you see them when you open your eyes. You begin living in the dream, seeing the same vision for years, desperately hoping it’ll come true but never expecting it to. When dreams meet reality the collision is so powerful there are no words to describe it.”
Reasons why I rated it 3.5 stars:
1. The plot:
I felt the plot was lacking a bit and did discover a few plot holes. Really took away from the story as I was confused in a few parts.
2. My enjoyment:
I really enjoyed reading Angel Land. But I probably won’t reread as it’s not typically something that I would read.
3. Character and story development:
There was not really as much development that I felt was needed. The character development was yet wasn’t there and the story had some development, but lacked a bit in parts.
4. Grammar and spelling:
There were quite a bit of spelling and grammatical errors that it took away from the story. My brain was automatically correcting parts and other parts of the story I had to reread more than once so I could understand what was going on.
5. The overall story:
I enjoyed Angel Land but because it lacked in parts, it slithered closer and closer to the unenjoyable state. The story was there, it just needed a bit more added to it to make it one hundred percent.
“Fear is the most debilitating thing in the world, but if you can face your greatest fear, you become invincible.”
Kyera (8 KP) rated I'm Not Your Manic Pixie Dream Girl in Books
Feb 1, 2018
I'm Not Your Manic Pixie Dream Girl follows Beas attempts to translate her status in high school into a scholarship winning mathematical formula. Simple right? Beatrice, Spencer, and Gabe are not the most popular kids at school to be honest theyre practically invisible. Most people call Bea Math Girl and she wants that to change. She convinces her friends to embrace and exploit a personality trait that fills a void in their school so that they can become popular.
Gabe agrees because he is a writer for the school paper and hopes to be chosen for an internship as a result. He becomes the schools flamboyant, gay best friend and almost immediately is absorbed into the popular inner-circle. Through his acceptance, Spencer and Bea, now known as Trixie, become known around the school. She must embrace her new personality but doesnt always make the right decisions.
I personally did not relate to her, despite her love of math and didnt create a connection. I completely agreed with the opinions of her friends about her behavior. I didnt find myself being sympathetic to her plight and was frustrated more than anything by her repeated mistakes. She meddles in other peoples business, doesnt take the high road and even though she accepts her mistakes at the end it doesnt feel, to me at least, that she has grown over the course of the novel.
Despite the book being formulaic, it was an enjoyable read I just wish it wasnt so predictable. It doesnt take long to figure out who is going to be the romantic endgame, what friendships will be formed and enemy status established. At the end of it all, you wonder will they realize that it is more important to be true to themselves than to be popular? I think you know what the answer will be.
The book has a fair amount of diversity and representation in it, which is good. I wish each of those various representations was given more detail and thought than being an intermittent descriptive word. It felt more like adding the token LGBTQ+ or ethnically diverse character. We dont often enough see diversity in books, so it was a little disappointing to me that it so little was done with it.
Overall, I think that it was a quick, contemporary read that young adult/teen readers will enjoy. It is cute, if predictable but the unique aspect of the story of using math to solve lifes problems was quirky and endearing.
Gabe agrees because he is a writer for the school paper and hopes to be chosen for an internship as a result. He becomes the schools flamboyant, gay best friend and almost immediately is absorbed into the popular inner-circle. Through his acceptance, Spencer and Bea, now known as Trixie, become known around the school. She must embrace her new personality but doesnt always make the right decisions.
I personally did not relate to her, despite her love of math and didnt create a connection. I completely agreed with the opinions of her friends about her behavior. I didnt find myself being sympathetic to her plight and was frustrated more than anything by her repeated mistakes. She meddles in other peoples business, doesnt take the high road and even though she accepts her mistakes at the end it doesnt feel, to me at least, that she has grown over the course of the novel.
Despite the book being formulaic, it was an enjoyable read I just wish it wasnt so predictable. It doesnt take long to figure out who is going to be the romantic endgame, what friendships will be formed and enemy status established. At the end of it all, you wonder will they realize that it is more important to be true to themselves than to be popular? I think you know what the answer will be.
The book has a fair amount of diversity and representation in it, which is good. I wish each of those various representations was given more detail and thought than being an intermittent descriptive word. It felt more like adding the token LGBTQ+ or ethnically diverse character. We dont often enough see diversity in books, so it was a little disappointing to me that it so little was done with it.
Overall, I think that it was a quick, contemporary read that young adult/teen readers will enjoy. It is cute, if predictable but the unique aspect of the story of using math to solve lifes problems was quirky and endearing.
Louise (64 KP) rated See What I Have Done in Books
Jul 2, 2018
*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the Publisher Grove Atlantic in exchange for an honest review*
I do like reading Historical Fiction but even more so when the book is based on a true story. This is the story following the murders of Andrew and Abby Borden. They were found with their skulls smashed in by their daughter Lizzie. Lizzie and Emma Borden are spinsters and still live with their father, step-mother and Bridget the maid. They seemed to have a sheltered life and been well-kept by their father. This story delves in to the lives of the Bordens and what happened behind closed doors of this well-respected family.
<b>"Lizzie Borden took an axe, And gave her mother forty whacks; When she saw what she had done, She gave her father forty-one,"</b>
I am going to be truthful and say that this book was ok but nothing really blew me away. I don’t think that there was much added to this story than what you could actually read on Wikipedia. The story was repetitive, slow and didn’t always hold my attention. The problem with stories like these are you know how they are going to end you don’t have that thrill of finding out who done it. I liked the writing style of this book and the way she wrote Lizzie’s character.
The story is told from four perspectives, Lizzie, Emma, Bridget and Benjamin.It was through them that the story was told of the events leading up to the murders and afterwards. The character that stuck out the me was Lizzie, she was spoilt, childish, rude and clearly deluded. Benjamin was the only character that was added to put a bit of a spin on the story but really didn’t come to anything and a bit pointless.
How easy it was to get away with murder though in the 1800’s, there was no DNA testing, no blood spatter analysis or proper interrogations in those days, yet in there were times in the story when I wanted the police to grasp onto something and for them to start piecing it altogether. Lizzie’s statement of what happened was fragmented,not making sense and was taken as shock, whereas nowadays this would be deemed as suspicious behaviour and you would be arrested at the drop of a hat.
In conclusion I think this is a good debut novel by Sarah Schmidt but it didn’t really bring anything new to the table.
I rated this 3 out of 5 stars
I do like reading Historical Fiction but even more so when the book is based on a true story. This is the story following the murders of Andrew and Abby Borden. They were found with their skulls smashed in by their daughter Lizzie. Lizzie and Emma Borden are spinsters and still live with their father, step-mother and Bridget the maid. They seemed to have a sheltered life and been well-kept by their father. This story delves in to the lives of the Bordens and what happened behind closed doors of this well-respected family.
<b>"Lizzie Borden took an axe, And gave her mother forty whacks; When she saw what she had done, She gave her father forty-one,"</b>
I am going to be truthful and say that this book was ok but nothing really blew me away. I don’t think that there was much added to this story than what you could actually read on Wikipedia. The story was repetitive, slow and didn’t always hold my attention. The problem with stories like these are you know how they are going to end you don’t have that thrill of finding out who done it. I liked the writing style of this book and the way she wrote Lizzie’s character.
The story is told from four perspectives, Lizzie, Emma, Bridget and Benjamin.It was through them that the story was told of the events leading up to the murders and afterwards. The character that stuck out the me was Lizzie, she was spoilt, childish, rude and clearly deluded. Benjamin was the only character that was added to put a bit of a spin on the story but really didn’t come to anything and a bit pointless.
How easy it was to get away with murder though in the 1800’s, there was no DNA testing, no blood spatter analysis or proper interrogations in those days, yet in there were times in the story when I wanted the police to grasp onto something and for them to start piecing it altogether. Lizzie’s statement of what happened was fragmented,not making sense and was taken as shock, whereas nowadays this would be deemed as suspicious behaviour and you would be arrested at the drop of a hat.
In conclusion I think this is a good debut novel by Sarah Schmidt but it didn’t really bring anything new to the table.
I rated this 3 out of 5 stars
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Newton and Polly: A Novel of Amazing Grace in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Can I give this 10 stars??? Seriously though, probably my favorite book I have read all year. Newton & Polly is such a powerful and beautiful story of love and redemption. Of God's forgiveness and his grace. No matter what we have done, no matter where we go, the decisions we make, God's grace is enough. His love is enough. His forgiveness is enough. All of us are sinners. All of us are in need of God's grace. All of us fall short of perfection. We can not earn his love or forgiveness. He gives it freely. All we have to do is open our heart to it and receive it. We are human though, and we will continue to make mistakes, but it is important that we keep our eyes focused on the Lord, on his goodness and grace.
Newton and Polly's story is one that I was unfamiliar with. I knew John had lived quite the life prior to converting, but I had no idea the impact that Polly had on him. True to Jody's fashion, most of the events in this novel are based on fact. Of course there is a bit of creative liberties, but it is fiction. Overall I feel that she portrayed their story of romance and redemption magnificently. She portrays John's deep adoration and love in a way that is breathtakingly beautiful and precious. Newton's story brings a whole new meaning to the words of his song...He was a wretch...BUT GOD...God's grace led him home.
I was moved to tears multiple times while reading this book, and again while creating the graphics, and again when I watched a video of the song, and again while writing this review. The presence of God is all over this book. I could go on for hours about the incredible story within the covers of this book...But I urge you to read it for yourself. If you can't purchase it, request it from your public library. Borrow it from a friend that owns it...Get this book in your hands! If you only read one book this year...Let it be Newton & Polly. You will not regret it. And I pray that as you read Newton and Polly's story you let God's love surround you and let his grace move through you and cleanse your soul.
I received a free copy of Newton & Polly from Waterbrook & Multnomah Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Newton and Polly's story is one that I was unfamiliar with. I knew John had lived quite the life prior to converting, but I had no idea the impact that Polly had on him. True to Jody's fashion, most of the events in this novel are based on fact. Of course there is a bit of creative liberties, but it is fiction. Overall I feel that she portrayed their story of romance and redemption magnificently. She portrays John's deep adoration and love in a way that is breathtakingly beautiful and precious. Newton's story brings a whole new meaning to the words of his song...He was a wretch...BUT GOD...God's grace led him home.
I was moved to tears multiple times while reading this book, and again while creating the graphics, and again when I watched a video of the song, and again while writing this review. The presence of God is all over this book. I could go on for hours about the incredible story within the covers of this book...But I urge you to read it for yourself. If you can't purchase it, request it from your public library. Borrow it from a friend that owns it...Get this book in your hands! If you only read one book this year...Let it be Newton & Polly. You will not regret it. And I pray that as you read Newton and Polly's story you let God's love surround you and let his grace move through you and cleanse your soul.
I received a free copy of Newton & Polly from Waterbrook & Multnomah Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Little Ray Of Sunshine (41 KP) rated Broken Branches in Books
Jan 11, 2019 (Updated Feb 10, 2019)
Book Review | Broken Branches by M. Jonathan Lee
Blurb
'Family curses don't exist. Sure, some families seem to suffer more pain than others, but a curse? An actual curse? I don't think so.'
A family tragedy was the catalyst for Ian Perkins to return to the isolated cottage with his wife and young son. But now they are back, it seems yet more grief might befall the family.
There is still time to act, but that means Ian must face the uncomfortable truth about his past. And in doing so, he must uncover the trust behind the supposed family curse.
Review
Ian Perkins is the main character in this novel. Ian returns to the family cottage 'Cobweb Cottage' with hes wife Rachel and son Harry the cottage as been isolated for some time. Ian starts searching about hes family 'curse' he heard hes dad speak about when he was younger. Ian's Uncle Stephen dies in a tragic accident and hes brother took he's own life. He wants to know why this happened and if the 'curse' is true but he get's obsessed with searching hes family documents.
I do feel the beginning was slow to me but I understand the writer wanted to show you what happened from the present and the past to show where this family 'curse' suppose to start from the documents Ian found in the 'Cobweb Cottage'.
I do feel some parts confused me as it kept jumping from past to present without telling you, like one scene it got scary but then it jumped to the past. It did make me question what is happening but near to the end of the book I got glued to it to find out if the curse was real and what will happen.
I have questions like if the curse is real will it continue on Ian's family? Will the curse continue on? I felt the darkness from the book and was always thinking what was wrong with Ian's wife Rachel. Will they see the light at the end of the tunnel? As they need some good to happen as I feel their emotions especially Rachel she comes into scenes quietly and it's like you don't notice her and Harry aren't there before they leave for her parents.
I would like to read more of the authors books in the future.
I want to thank Hideaway Fall for sending me out Broken Branches by M Jonathan Lee. They sent me out a paperback to write a honest review. This is all my own opinion of the book.
'Family curses don't exist. Sure, some families seem to suffer more pain than others, but a curse? An actual curse? I don't think so.'
A family tragedy was the catalyst for Ian Perkins to return to the isolated cottage with his wife and young son. But now they are back, it seems yet more grief might befall the family.
There is still time to act, but that means Ian must face the uncomfortable truth about his past. And in doing so, he must uncover the trust behind the supposed family curse.
Review
Ian Perkins is the main character in this novel. Ian returns to the family cottage 'Cobweb Cottage' with hes wife Rachel and son Harry the cottage as been isolated for some time. Ian starts searching about hes family 'curse' he heard hes dad speak about when he was younger. Ian's Uncle Stephen dies in a tragic accident and hes brother took he's own life. He wants to know why this happened and if the 'curse' is true but he get's obsessed with searching hes family documents.
I do feel the beginning was slow to me but I understand the writer wanted to show you what happened from the present and the past to show where this family 'curse' suppose to start from the documents Ian found in the 'Cobweb Cottage'.
I do feel some parts confused me as it kept jumping from past to present without telling you, like one scene it got scary but then it jumped to the past. It did make me question what is happening but near to the end of the book I got glued to it to find out if the curse was real and what will happen.
I have questions like if the curse is real will it continue on Ian's family? Will the curse continue on? I felt the darkness from the book and was always thinking what was wrong with Ian's wife Rachel. Will they see the light at the end of the tunnel? As they need some good to happen as I feel their emotions especially Rachel she comes into scenes quietly and it's like you don't notice her and Harry aren't there before they leave for her parents.
I would like to read more of the authors books in the future.
I want to thank Hideaway Fall for sending me out Broken Branches by M Jonathan Lee. They sent me out a paperback to write a honest review. This is all my own opinion of the book.
Midge (525 KP) rated Sugar: My Life as a Sugar Babe in Books
Dec 11, 2018
A fun, fast and interesting read. (2 more)
Fascinating to read about Monique's travels to different countries.
Intense and emotional
Very Steamy!
Sugar was beckoning at me to be read, initially by the eye-catching and attractive cover and that it looked like it would be a very steamy read, as indeed it was. I was definitely not disappointed! I was smitten from the very first, right until the last page.
Monique is a loving single mother, who is trying to create a happy home for her two daughters and she's also a Sugar Babe, dating wealthy men, a practice known as Sugar Daddy dating. She mostly meets her Sugar Daddies during the day, when the children are at school or when they are with their father. Monique finds a thousand pounds in her purse after one night of passionate and very hot sex, and she realises that Sugar Daddy dating could be her way to survive as a single mother.
A heady life of wealthy men, luxury hotels and glamorous experiences ensue. One of my favourites was Iranian engineer Farshad, who liked to lavish Monique with gifts such as expensive jewellery and leather boots and wine and dine her in exotic restaurants.
Dates with Sugar Daddies see her flying to Paris, Barcelona, Vienna, Milan, Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong and skydiving in Dubai. Thanks to her Sugar Daddies, Monique can provide for her children, she has some independence, and experiences a whole new range of sexual fantasies.
She deactivates her account with her agency, Seeking Arrangement, and her ex-husband stops paying for the children's' upkeep. She is then prepared to do anything for the sake of her children. Money becomes her top priority and she starts living in the dangerous waters of the escort world. Now she realises that she must find a way out before this hollow existence becomes a habit.
I absolutely loved reading Sugar. Maybe it was the novelty of reading a book told as memoirs and based on true events. It was fascinating to read about Monique's travels to different countries and about the different nationalities, cultures and personalities of the gentlemen she dated. However, she ends up working as an escort rather than a Sugar Babe, as it's all about basic survival instincts, money and very spicy sex.
Sugar is steamy and hot, passionate and caring, intense and emotional and there are definitely moments where you will laugh. It is such a fun, fast and interesting read.
Monique X is a brilliant storyteller and really draws you in with her descriptiveness.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thistle Publishing for my ARC.
Monique is a loving single mother, who is trying to create a happy home for her two daughters and she's also a Sugar Babe, dating wealthy men, a practice known as Sugar Daddy dating. She mostly meets her Sugar Daddies during the day, when the children are at school or when they are with their father. Monique finds a thousand pounds in her purse after one night of passionate and very hot sex, and she realises that Sugar Daddy dating could be her way to survive as a single mother.
A heady life of wealthy men, luxury hotels and glamorous experiences ensue. One of my favourites was Iranian engineer Farshad, who liked to lavish Monique with gifts such as expensive jewellery and leather boots and wine and dine her in exotic restaurants.
Dates with Sugar Daddies see her flying to Paris, Barcelona, Vienna, Milan, Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong and skydiving in Dubai. Thanks to her Sugar Daddies, Monique can provide for her children, she has some independence, and experiences a whole new range of sexual fantasies.
She deactivates her account with her agency, Seeking Arrangement, and her ex-husband stops paying for the children's' upkeep. She is then prepared to do anything for the sake of her children. Money becomes her top priority and she starts living in the dangerous waters of the escort world. Now she realises that she must find a way out before this hollow existence becomes a habit.
I absolutely loved reading Sugar. Maybe it was the novelty of reading a book told as memoirs and based on true events. It was fascinating to read about Monique's travels to different countries and about the different nationalities, cultures and personalities of the gentlemen she dated. However, she ends up working as an escort rather than a Sugar Babe, as it's all about basic survival instincts, money and very spicy sex.
Sugar is steamy and hot, passionate and caring, intense and emotional and there are definitely moments where you will laugh. It is such a fun, fast and interesting read.
Monique X is a brilliant storyteller and really draws you in with her descriptiveness.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thistle Publishing for my ARC.
Gareth von Kallenbach (980 KP) rated Futurama: Bender's Game (2008) in Movies
Aug 14, 2019
The third of the straight to DVD Futurama movies, “Futurama: Bender’s Game” has arrived and continues the winning formula of the television series and two previous films.
This time the film starts out as a standard episode rather than continue the events of the past film. In true Futurama style, there are references to past characters and pop culture gags throughout. The early focus of the story is on the Dark Matter fuel shortage that is controlled by the greedy Mom and her corporation. Mom insists that prices are way up so she has to charge more for the precious starship fuel, but avoids any questions related to her record profits related to the ever rising fuel prices.
With the rising fuel costs the Planetary Express Office, is put on a very strict flight schedule that causes havoc amongst the crew. Fry (Billy West), still drifts aimlessly about life, Amy (Lauren Tom) is as shallow as ever and Leela (Katey Sagal), has an ager issue and is outfitted with a shock collar that jolts her whenever she loses her temper.
Bender (John Di Maggio), has a larger issue as he spots some of the staff children and their friends playing Dungeons and Dragons and wants to be a part of the action. It is learned that robots were not built for imagination so when Bender takes up the game and becomes the entity Titanius, he soon has a hard time distinguishing between reality and fantasy. Combine this with Leela’s entry of the Planet Express ship into a Demo Derby and you get a premise ripe with laughter.
The story shifts into high gear when Professor Farnsworth (Billy West), decides to use his anti-backwards crystal to end his old flame Moms hold on the fuel industry. The Crew make a startling discovery as they battle mom, and thanks to the power of the crystal and Bender, find themselves in a strange medieval world where each of them has new identities in this alternate universe.
In a race against time, the Planet Express staff must not only survive the alternate universe, but defeat Mom and her plans for universal domination.
With sharp picture and sound, this is a very enjoyable new adventure for fans.
There are loads of extras which include deleted scenes, commentaries, and a look at the next film “Into The Wild Green Yonder”.
All in all a welcome and satisfying film that should delight fans and help keep us happy until the new film arrives next year.
This time the film starts out as a standard episode rather than continue the events of the past film. In true Futurama style, there are references to past characters and pop culture gags throughout. The early focus of the story is on the Dark Matter fuel shortage that is controlled by the greedy Mom and her corporation. Mom insists that prices are way up so she has to charge more for the precious starship fuel, but avoids any questions related to her record profits related to the ever rising fuel prices.
With the rising fuel costs the Planetary Express Office, is put on a very strict flight schedule that causes havoc amongst the crew. Fry (Billy West), still drifts aimlessly about life, Amy (Lauren Tom) is as shallow as ever and Leela (Katey Sagal), has an ager issue and is outfitted with a shock collar that jolts her whenever she loses her temper.
Bender (John Di Maggio), has a larger issue as he spots some of the staff children and their friends playing Dungeons and Dragons and wants to be a part of the action. It is learned that robots were not built for imagination so when Bender takes up the game and becomes the entity Titanius, he soon has a hard time distinguishing between reality and fantasy. Combine this with Leela’s entry of the Planet Express ship into a Demo Derby and you get a premise ripe with laughter.
The story shifts into high gear when Professor Farnsworth (Billy West), decides to use his anti-backwards crystal to end his old flame Moms hold on the fuel industry. The Crew make a startling discovery as they battle mom, and thanks to the power of the crystal and Bender, find themselves in a strange medieval world where each of them has new identities in this alternate universe.
In a race against time, the Planet Express staff must not only survive the alternate universe, but defeat Mom and her plans for universal domination.
With sharp picture and sound, this is a very enjoyable new adventure for fans.
There are loads of extras which include deleted scenes, commentaries, and a look at the next film “Into The Wild Green Yonder”.
All in all a welcome and satisfying film that should delight fans and help keep us happy until the new film arrives next year.
Darren (1599 KP) rated From Russia With Love (1964) in Movies
Nov 7, 2019
Characters – James Bond is forced into his next mission which includes seducing a spy that is wanting to turn on Russia, he shows us again just how skilled he is when it comes to dealing with life and death situations and his awareness of dangers around him. Tatiana Romanova is the Russian spy that has offered to give up information for safety to England, she might not be as true as James is told about, even though we know she is being forced into this mission. Rosa Klebb is the one that is recruiting the agents with Tatiana and Grant being her picks to help SPECTRE eliminate James Bond. Grant is the newest recruit assassin, hard as nails, resourceful and everything James will find difficult to beat in a fight.
Performances – Sean Connery has grown into this role being even better than the first film, he become the superstar name after this outing. Daniela Bianchi is good for a Bond girl, she is stronger than the first one and now we know what type of women will get in this role. Robert Shaw as the villain is great, he looks cold calculated through every single scene.
Story – The story here is a lot more interesting than the first film, we learn early on about the SPECTRE plan which shows us how we have a growing villainous threat for Bond to tackle. This helps make the franchise even more enjoyable because it isn’t just Bond solving a case, it is him trying to stay ahead while we know the twists coming. The story leaves us open to learn more about SPECTRE in future film which again is a pleasure for the audience to be seeing. How everything unfolds well we know Bond can solve the problems he is facing and we get to see the start of the infamous gadgets.
Action/Adventure – The action in the film is bigger, the fights last longer and the adventure that Bond must go on is showing us just how big the terrorist battle will be.
Settings – The film takes place for the most part in Turkey, which shows us another neutral country in the middle of the battle, the train sequences could be argued to be the most enjoyable though.
Scene of the Movie – The gadgets being introduced.
That Moment That Annoyed Me – James Bond attitude toward women.
Final Thoughts – This is a wonderful second instalment in the franchise, it gives us a bigger threat for long term villains in SPECTRE and does have big action throughout.
Overall: The sequel that makes things bigger.
Performances – Sean Connery has grown into this role being even better than the first film, he become the superstar name after this outing. Daniela Bianchi is good for a Bond girl, she is stronger than the first one and now we know what type of women will get in this role. Robert Shaw as the villain is great, he looks cold calculated through every single scene.
Story – The story here is a lot more interesting than the first film, we learn early on about the SPECTRE plan which shows us how we have a growing villainous threat for Bond to tackle. This helps make the franchise even more enjoyable because it isn’t just Bond solving a case, it is him trying to stay ahead while we know the twists coming. The story leaves us open to learn more about SPECTRE in future film which again is a pleasure for the audience to be seeing. How everything unfolds well we know Bond can solve the problems he is facing and we get to see the start of the infamous gadgets.
Action/Adventure – The action in the film is bigger, the fights last longer and the adventure that Bond must go on is showing us just how big the terrorist battle will be.
Settings – The film takes place for the most part in Turkey, which shows us another neutral country in the middle of the battle, the train sequences could be argued to be the most enjoyable though.
Scene of the Movie – The gadgets being introduced.
That Moment That Annoyed Me – James Bond attitude toward women.
Final Thoughts – This is a wonderful second instalment in the franchise, it gives us a bigger threat for long term villains in SPECTRE and does have big action throughout.
Overall: The sequel that makes things bigger.
Sophia (Bookwyrming Thoughts) (530 KP) rated The Body in the Woods (Point Last Seen, #1) in Books
Jan 23, 2020
I think I'm reading books too fast for the following reasons:
~ It was spring break. I probably got cabin fever. 101°F most likely
~ It was short, compared to a lot of other books I typically really, which are usually 350+
~ It really was action-packed and suspenseful
The last part is a fact, and to my embarrassment, I didn't realize April Henry was the exact same author who wrote Girl, Stolen which I actually loved (I forgot if it was Book Battle, Truman Readers Award Nominee, or both). Or maybe I just forgot who the author was. Whoops.
The Body in the Woods follows multiple perspectives Alexis, Nick, Ruby, and why yes, the murderer on the occasional basis of creepiness. e_e *ominous music* Alexis' is someone who doesn't let others become close to her (sounds like me) and has a delusional mother who hates her medication, Nick had no father figure for most of his life and tries getting attention just to fit in, and Ruby has interests no one else seems to understand. But while all of that is true, there seems to be one thing in common between the three: they're odd and simply want to fit in with the world.
All three are part of Portland's Search and Rescue, which is actually mainly made up of teen volunteers who search for missing people. While on the search for a missing man in Forest Park no, not the one in Missouri where the Muny is at they end up finding a girl... dead.
The multiple POVs actually had a handy advantage: it pretty much kept me at the edge of my seat. A chapter ends at a suspenseful part, I turn the page in hopes of finding out what happens and I end up with a different person entirely. Unfortunately though... there were these random POVs from other people that just seem to pop out of nowhere and proved to be a bit of a distraction from the main 4.
Well written and page turning, The Body in the Woods reminded me of CSI from a witnesses' and murderer's point of view instead of law enforcement. Not bad for April Henry's latest novel, even if I only read one other book. It'll be great for mystery peeps though!
-----------------
ARC copy provided by publisher
Original review posted on <a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/2014/06/arc-review-the-body-in-the-woods-by-april-henry.html">Bookwyrming Thoughts</a>
<a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gi5Rk5yLloA/UtliaUbdL3I/AAAAAAAACbE/J27z92_qrYU/s1600/Official+Banner.png"; /></a>
~ It was spring break. I probably got cabin fever. 101°F most likely
~ It was short, compared to a lot of other books I typically really, which are usually 350+
~ It really was action-packed and suspenseful
The last part is a fact, and to my embarrassment, I didn't realize April Henry was the exact same author who wrote Girl, Stolen which I actually loved (I forgot if it was Book Battle, Truman Readers Award Nominee, or both). Or maybe I just forgot who the author was. Whoops.
The Body in the Woods follows multiple perspectives Alexis, Nick, Ruby, and why yes, the murderer on the occasional basis of creepiness. e_e *ominous music* Alexis' is someone who doesn't let others become close to her (sounds like me) and has a delusional mother who hates her medication, Nick had no father figure for most of his life and tries getting attention just to fit in, and Ruby has interests no one else seems to understand. But while all of that is true, there seems to be one thing in common between the three: they're odd and simply want to fit in with the world.
All three are part of Portland's Search and Rescue, which is actually mainly made up of teen volunteers who search for missing people. While on the search for a missing man in Forest Park no, not the one in Missouri where the Muny is at they end up finding a girl... dead.
The multiple POVs actually had a handy advantage: it pretty much kept me at the edge of my seat. A chapter ends at a suspenseful part, I turn the page in hopes of finding out what happens and I end up with a different person entirely. Unfortunately though... there were these random POVs from other people that just seem to pop out of nowhere and proved to be a bit of a distraction from the main 4.
Well written and page turning, The Body in the Woods reminded me of CSI from a witnesses' and murderer's point of view instead of law enforcement. Not bad for April Henry's latest novel, even if I only read one other book. It'll be great for mystery peeps though!
-----------------
ARC copy provided by publisher
Original review posted on <a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/2014/06/arc-review-the-body-in-the-woods-by-april-henry.html">Bookwyrming Thoughts</a>
<a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gi5Rk5yLloA/UtliaUbdL3I/AAAAAAAACbE/J27z92_qrYU/s1600/Official+Banner.png"; /></a>