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ClareR (6037 KP) rated Time After Time in Books
Dec 9, 2022
Time After Time is a heartwarming and entertaining read about acceptance and not settling for second best.
Tabby works in a second hand shop and one day tries on a ring that she has taken a shine to - and is instantly transported back to the 1980’s. Her life becomes more interesting as she makes a new friend and sees her beloved 1980’s in the flesh.
In 2022, Tabby feels stifled. Her long term boyfriend, David, has a very fixed, old fashioned idea of what “his woman” should be doing with her time (cooking for him and having children seem to feature highly). And back at her family home, Tabby’s father drops a bombshell that leaves her mother reeling.
The characters are lovely (except the chauvinist David, of course!), Tabby could be a bit ‘ditsy’ at times, but that tended to add to her charm.
I do feel that more could have been done with the time travel aspect, but I think that’s more the science fiction fan in me (and the book would probably have needed to be a lot longer) - no one else reading on the Pigeonhole seemed to have the same opinion! In fact I do realise that the limited sci-Fi element may well make it more appealing to a lot of readers.
I really did enjoy this - a perfect summer read - or a winter read to remind you of the better weather!
Tabby works in a second hand shop and one day tries on a ring that she has taken a shine to - and is instantly transported back to the 1980’s. Her life becomes more interesting as she makes a new friend and sees her beloved 1980’s in the flesh.
In 2022, Tabby feels stifled. Her long term boyfriend, David, has a very fixed, old fashioned idea of what “his woman” should be doing with her time (cooking for him and having children seem to feature highly). And back at her family home, Tabby’s father drops a bombshell that leaves her mother reeling.
The characters are lovely (except the chauvinist David, of course!), Tabby could be a bit ‘ditsy’ at times, but that tended to add to her charm.
I do feel that more could have been done with the time travel aspect, but I think that’s more the science fiction fan in me (and the book would probably have needed to be a lot longer) - no one else reading on the Pigeonhole seemed to have the same opinion! In fact I do realise that the limited sci-Fi element may well make it more appealing to a lot of readers.
I really did enjoy this - a perfect summer read - or a winter read to remind you of the better weather!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2456 KP) rated A Quiet Undertaking in Books
Jan 27, 2022 (Updated Jan 27, 2022)
Scandal in Flat Skunk
Deaf reporter Connor Westphal is hot on the trail of another scandal in her small Gold Country town for her weekly newspaper. A storage locker full of human ashes has been found near the town of Flat Skunk, California. The ashes were supposed to be scattered at sea by Jasper Coyne, but before anyone can question Jasper, he is found dead near his houseboat. With the scandal impacting Connor’s friend, Del Rey, Connor has an extra motive to investigate. But with Del Rey hiding secrets of her own, will Connor ever figure out what really happened?
This was an inventive mystery that kept me guessing until the end. There were plenty of surprises on the way to the logical climax. Unfortunately, Connor did make some pretty stupid moves as she was investigating, which is a bummer since I like her overall. She leads a strong cast of fun characters. I love how her deafness is worked into the book and how it makes certain scenes even more suspenseful. There are more four letter words than usual in a cozy mystery, so know that going in. The book was first released over 20 years ago, so some of the technology is dated, but keep that in mind as you read it, and you’ll be fine. Overall, this was another fun, confusing mystery. I’m glad I’m finally reading this series.
This was an inventive mystery that kept me guessing until the end. There were plenty of surprises on the way to the logical climax. Unfortunately, Connor did make some pretty stupid moves as she was investigating, which is a bummer since I like her overall. She leads a strong cast of fun characters. I love how her deafness is worked into the book and how it makes certain scenes even more suspenseful. There are more four letter words than usual in a cozy mystery, so know that going in. The book was first released over 20 years ago, so some of the technology is dated, but keep that in mind as you read it, and you’ll be fine. Overall, this was another fun, confusing mystery. I’m glad I’m finally reading this series.
Irish Coffee Murder
Barbara Ross, Leslie Meier and Lee Hollis
8.0
Rate It
Book
You don't need to be Irish to enjoy St. Patrick's Day in Maine, where the chilly March weather...
Merissa (13575 KP) rated Billionaire's Muse (The Billionaire’s Playground #3) in Books
Jul 13, 2021 (Updated Jul 17, 2023)
BILLIONAIRE'S MUSE is the third book in The Billionaire's Playground series but can be read as a standalone, as I did. This book revolves around Marcus, a famous photographer, and Fin, a university history student.
Fin is special - in that he doesn't have a filter and is a literal thinker. This has led to some less than satisfactory 'dates'. Marcus finds Fin completely refreshing and wants to treat him the way he should be, not the way he has been. Throw in two mums who have their own views of the world, add a cheeky nanna, and you have a book to lose yourself in.
This was a great book. The way Fin takes everything so literally made me realise just how much we say without it really meaning anything. I loved that Marcus found the situation funny without laughing or undermining Fin himself.
Marcus and Fin are helped (and sometimes hindered) by a wonderful supporting cast. This is book three and it really makes me want to read books one and two -- if only to see what Nanna gets up to!
A fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend.
** 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!
Jul 13, 2021
Fin is special - in that he doesn't have a filter and is a literal thinker. This has led to some less than satisfactory 'dates'. Marcus finds Fin completely refreshing and wants to treat him the way he should be, not the way he has been. Throw in two mums who have their own views of the world, add a cheeky nanna, and you have a book to lose yourself in.
This was a great book. The way Fin takes everything so literally made me realise just how much we say without it really meaning anything. I loved that Marcus found the situation funny without laughing or undermining Fin himself.
Marcus and Fin are helped (and sometimes hindered) by a wonderful supporting cast. This is book three and it really makes me want to read books one and two -- if only to see what Nanna gets up to!
A fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend.
** 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!
Jul 13, 2021
Merissa (13575 KP) rated Under the Mistle-tome (Christmas Falls #5) in Books
Dec 1, 2023
UNDER THE MISTLE-TOME is the fifth book in the Christmas Falls series. In it, we meet Trey, owner of Seasons Readings, and Trevor, who moved away and has now returned with his daughter. This is First Love/Second Chance at its finest!
First thing I need to say though is Holly-Berry. She is a delight and steals every scene she's in. I loved how her wisdom came across, and how she easily accepted Mr T! I won't tell you how I snorted when I read that! I loved the A-Team when I was younger, so that was just perfect.
As for Trey and Trevor, well, they had a rock-solid friendship to fall back on, so it was no stretch of the imagination that things would go in the direction they did. What I loved was how it was written, with both of them wanting to connect as friends first, and not wanting to mess Miss Holly about.
One came I thought was great was that of Arlo and Emerson. It was so good to see it from a different perspective.
All in all, a great addition to the series, and a story I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 1, 2023
First thing I need to say though is Holly-Berry. She is a delight and steals every scene she's in. I loved how her wisdom came across, and how she easily accepted Mr T! I won't tell you how I snorted when I read that! I loved the A-Team when I was younger, so that was just perfect.
As for Trey and Trevor, well, they had a rock-solid friendship to fall back on, so it was no stretch of the imagination that things would go in the direction they did. What I loved was how it was written, with both of them wanting to connect as friends first, and not wanting to mess Miss Holly about.
One came I thought was great was that of Arlo and Emerson. It was so good to see it from a different perspective.
All in all, a great addition to the series, and a story I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 1, 2023
Debbiereadsbook (1608 KP) rated The Roots Run Deep in Books
Oct 27, 2024
These are short, sharp shocks into the mind of Foster, and how they tell their stories!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is a collection of stories, billed as horror.
Now, pre-kindle days, I was a horror reader, and it's been some time since I delved into the genre. And while these are mind-provoking, I wouldn't quite class them as horror, as such.
That said, they are all short, sharp shocks into the mind of Foster and how they tell their tales. I've not read any of their work before, though, and I really enjoyed this little peek into their mind.
Some stories were grabbing, and didn't let go. Some were just good. I got lost in the space story, to be honest but I did read them all.
I will never look at a glazed doughnut in the same way, ever again! Moths are definitely on my nope list, and the beach after a storm will be a bit dicey!
So, scary? Yes. Make you think? Yes. But for me, not quite what I would call horror but still an extremely good set of shorts, that make me want to read something longer and more in depth by this author.
4 very good stars across the set, but stand out for the beach story, the doughnut one and the tree.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is a collection of stories, billed as horror.
Now, pre-kindle days, I was a horror reader, and it's been some time since I delved into the genre. And while these are mind-provoking, I wouldn't quite class them as horror, as such.
That said, they are all short, sharp shocks into the mind of Foster and how they tell their tales. I've not read any of their work before, though, and I really enjoyed this little peek into their mind.
Some stories were grabbing, and didn't let go. Some were just good. I got lost in the space story, to be honest but I did read them all.
I will never look at a glazed doughnut in the same way, ever again! Moths are definitely on my nope list, and the beach after a storm will be a bit dicey!
So, scary? Yes. Make you think? Yes. But for me, not quite what I would call horror but still an extremely good set of shorts, that make me want to read something longer and more in depth by this author.
4 very good stars across the set, but stand out for the beach story, the doughnut one and the tree.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Merissa (13575 KP) rated Ollie (A Little Christmas #3) in Books
Dec 13, 2024
FINALLY!!! Finally, I get Ollie and Beckett's story. After teasing me in Cruising Right Into Love and Sweet Haven, I'm so happy! You don't have to have read those stories to enjoy this one, but I have and I did.
Ollie is very sensitive about his weight and tries to hide under layers whenever possible. His best friend is having a cruise wedding though, so there won't be much opportunity to hide. He's been online dating for six months now and is still insecure, feeling that if Beckett actually sees him, he leave. Beckett has seen Ollie and wants him even more, but how is he supposed to make Ollie realise that?
What followed was a sweet, heartwarming, cavity-inducing story that wrapped me up in a warm hug and didn't let go. These two had issues, no doubt, their locations being just one, but when the two of them were together, I didn't stop to think about any of that. They were just so right for each other in every way.
I am so pleased their story has come out and I couldn't be happier for them. A brilliant story, beginning and wrapping up at Christmas, that I can HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 12, 2024
Ollie is very sensitive about his weight and tries to hide under layers whenever possible. His best friend is having a cruise wedding though, so there won't be much opportunity to hide. He's been online dating for six months now and is still insecure, feeling that if Beckett actually sees him, he leave. Beckett has seen Ollie and wants him even more, but how is he supposed to make Ollie realise that?
What followed was a sweet, heartwarming, cavity-inducing story that wrapped me up in a warm hug and didn't let go. These two had issues, no doubt, their locations being just one, but when the two of them were together, I didn't stop to think about any of that. They were just so right for each other in every way.
I am so pleased their story has come out and I couldn't be happier for them. A brilliant story, beginning and wrapping up at Christmas, that I can HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 12, 2024
Old Hollywood with a Dash of Mystery
The year in 1940, and Babs Norman and Guy Brandt have set up a detective agency. But it is struggling to bring in any money, which is why Babs has just been evicted from her apartment. But the potential for positive cash flow comes when they learn that Hollywood isn’t going to the dogs since their dogs are disappearing. Basil Rathbone’s dog has been kidnapped as has the dog that plays Asta in the Thin Man movies. Since a new Thin Man movie is supposed to start production soon, the studio is desperate to get their canine star back. Can Babs and Guy figure out what is going on?
The draw for this book is old Hollywood, and it is fun spending time with the stars. They are an active part of the plot and at times outnumber the fictional characters. Sadly, the plot is uneven with too much time spent on the antics of the stars. While it does reach a satisfactory conclusion, the plotting is clunky with elements introduced roughly. And there’s a subplot that feels forced and isn’t really resolved. While most of the book felt right historically, I did find a blatant historical error early on. The writing kept us at arm’s length, making the characters thin. This is a book to read for the old stars. If you want a good mystery, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
The draw for this book is old Hollywood, and it is fun spending time with the stars. They are an active part of the plot and at times outnumber the fictional characters. Sadly, the plot is uneven with too much time spent on the antics of the stars. While it does reach a satisfactory conclusion, the plotting is clunky with elements introduced roughly. And there’s a subplot that feels forced and isn’t really resolved. While most of the book felt right historically, I did find a blatant historical error early on. The writing kept us at arm’s length, making the characters thin. This is a book to read for the old stars. If you want a good mystery, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Dear Mr. M in Books
Feb 13, 2018
"M" is a famous writer whose best days are probably, if truth be told, behind him. He's best known for his novel, Payback, which tells the story of a high school history teacher, Mr. Landzaat, who went missing one winter after having an affair with one of his female students. That student, Laura, had moved on to a relationship with a boy her own age, Herman. The two were staying at a vacation cottage and were the last ones to see their teacher. Did they have something to do with his disappearance? Now, M lives with his beautiful (much younger) wife and little daughter in an apartment. They have a neighbor who seems to have a odd fascination with the couple, but why? The novel weaves together the tales of these disparate characters.
I had heard a lot about Koch's novels and was excited to win this one via a Goodreads Giveaway. It was certainly interesting and definitely different than many novels I read. I have to admit that it was a rather slow read, especially the first three quarters or so. There was actually a point where I was considering giving up for a bit, but I soldiered on. Some characters in the novels never have names (just initials), and we don't really get insight into who our varying narrators are. While I understand why (and it adds to the drama of the novel), I'll confess that it gets a little confusing at times. You really have to stay on your toes as you read.
Still, the novel is definitely more compelling toward the end, and I found myself staying up late to finish it. The twist at the end was certainly not what I expected. The varying viewpoints wind up working out well, as you really see the story unfold from everyone's perspective. Still, I found the story a bit diluted by a bit of a "meta" storyline about writers, as well as an odd insertion about M's father and his role in the resistance, as well as M's own views, which never really seemed to have a full role or point in the tale. I enjoyed the novel, but I didn't love it, and it (frankly) exhausted me a bit.
I received a copy of this novel via a Goodreads Giveaway (thank you!) in return for an unbiased review.
I had heard a lot about Koch's novels and was excited to win this one via a Goodreads Giveaway. It was certainly interesting and definitely different than many novels I read. I have to admit that it was a rather slow read, especially the first three quarters or so. There was actually a point where I was considering giving up for a bit, but I soldiered on. Some characters in the novels never have names (just initials), and we don't really get insight into who our varying narrators are. While I understand why (and it adds to the drama of the novel), I'll confess that it gets a little confusing at times. You really have to stay on your toes as you read.
Still, the novel is definitely more compelling toward the end, and I found myself staying up late to finish it. The twist at the end was certainly not what I expected. The varying viewpoints wind up working out well, as you really see the story unfold from everyone's perspective. Still, I found the story a bit diluted by a bit of a "meta" storyline about writers, as well as an odd insertion about M's father and his role in the resistance, as well as M's own views, which never really seemed to have a full role or point in the tale. I enjoyed the novel, but I didn't love it, and it (frankly) exhausted me a bit.
I received a copy of this novel via a Goodreads Giveaway (thank you!) in return for an unbiased review.
Brumpolarbears (22 KP) rated Village Attacks in Tabletop Games
Jun 18, 2019
UK Games Expo 2018 was filled to the brim with new and shiny games, but one of our stand out picks was a cooperative castle defence game, with a twist. In Village Attacks, you take on the role of some of the most infamous and feared folklore legends. What could go wrong?
Set within the depths of a particularly immense castle, you and your fellow villains must defend your home from the local villagers who are laying siege to your home in an effort to exorcise your evil from the world.
Although the villagers themselves may be weak, they aren’t alone. Hunters and heroes from across the world have come to lend sword, shield and gun to rid the world of your taint.
The castle interior is constructed using a modular tile system made up from beautifully illustrated game tiles that allow for near limitless combinations and layouts. The villagers will attempt to reach the heart of the castle and destroy it, but they must be stopped! Only by slaying enough villagers and breaking their morale will you be able to drive them from your home for good.
The brainchild of two friends, Adam Smith and Mike Brown of Grimlord Games, an independent developer of tabletop games, Village Attacks uses custom dice to control the outcome of your turn. Dice results can be used to move your monster, activate your abilities, purchase traps, defend yourself from incoming attacks and even be stored for the next round.
Each monster possesses their own unique abilities that they are able to level up by slaying villagers and completing objectives. Monsters are categorised into types, which can affect how they interact with the enemy forces. Hunters and Town Heroes deal extra damage to monsters that match their types, creating another level of strategy and planning.
I had the opportunity to give Village Attacks a whirl at UK Games Expo and I really did fall in love with it. I’m a sucker for a good miniature and this has plenty of options, particularly if you backed the Kickstarter. While the game itself comes with a lot of components (see the list below), it’s fairly quick to get into. Once the heroes and hunters take to the board, that’s when things really start to heat up. This one is certainly going on the wish list.
Set within the depths of a particularly immense castle, you and your fellow villains must defend your home from the local villagers who are laying siege to your home in an effort to exorcise your evil from the world.
Although the villagers themselves may be weak, they aren’t alone. Hunters and heroes from across the world have come to lend sword, shield and gun to rid the world of your taint.
The castle interior is constructed using a modular tile system made up from beautifully illustrated game tiles that allow for near limitless combinations and layouts. The villagers will attempt to reach the heart of the castle and destroy it, but they must be stopped! Only by slaying enough villagers and breaking their morale will you be able to drive them from your home for good.
The brainchild of two friends, Adam Smith and Mike Brown of Grimlord Games, an independent developer of tabletop games, Village Attacks uses custom dice to control the outcome of your turn. Dice results can be used to move your monster, activate your abilities, purchase traps, defend yourself from incoming attacks and even be stored for the next round.
Each monster possesses their own unique abilities that they are able to level up by slaying villagers and completing objectives. Monsters are categorised into types, which can affect how they interact with the enemy forces. Hunters and Town Heroes deal extra damage to monsters that match their types, creating another level of strategy and planning.
I had the opportunity to give Village Attacks a whirl at UK Games Expo and I really did fall in love with it. I’m a sucker for a good miniature and this has plenty of options, particularly if you backed the Kickstarter. While the game itself comes with a lot of components (see the list below), it’s fairly quick to get into. Once the heroes and hunters take to the board, that’s when things really start to heat up. This one is certainly going on the wish list.