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Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated The Broken Girls in Books
Apr 9, 2019
Barrons, Vermont -- 1950
A young girl who is a student at Idlewild Hall goes missing. Idlewild is a school for wayward girls. The authorities believe she has just run away with some boy, but her friends and roommates know this is the farthest thing from the truth.
Barrons, Vermont -- 1994
Deb Sheridan another young woman is found dead in the field at Idlewild Hall, which has now been closed for many years. Her killer is her boyfriend at the time, Tim Christopher. Why would he leave her at this place?
Barrons, Vermont -- 2014
Someone has bought Idlewild Hall and plans to renovate it. But why? The place is nothing but a money pit. Fiona Sheridan is determined to find out who is buying the property and their motivation behind it. Will she be able to deal with all the secrets this place holds? When a body is found during the renovations, Fiona's attempts go into overdrive? Will she be able to find out who is behind this before she too becomes a subject of Idlewild?
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Going through this book, I was a little skeptical about what was going to happen. I'm not a big fan of books with ghosts, but this one wasn't too bad. I gave the book a rating of 3.5 stars. While the book was interesting, I found myself going for other things to do besides reading this book. The story flowed naturally even switching from the past to modern day.
Mary Hand is a ghost that haunts the grounds of Idlewild. She will show you things that you may not want to see. But is a ghost behind all the strange things that happen at Idlewild Hall or is there another culprit. We know for sure that Deb Sheridan was killed by her boyfriend, but what about the body found during the renovations? In 1950 the school was full of wayward girls. Girls who in those days, parents could not be bothered by and mental health was a taboo issue. So they sent their daughters away to school. Four girls in room 3C became very close friends. Sonia, Katie, CeCe and Roberta. The book tells their story from 1950 leading up to the disappearance of one of them and Fiona's perspective from 2014, trying to find out the history of Idlewild Hall and the new owners.
Overall, for me the book was good, not great. This is the first book I have read by Simone St. James. If her other books deal with ghosts and spirits, I'm not sure if I will read them or not, but I may give them a chance.
If you like ghosts though, I think you should give this book a try, YOU may enjoy it.
A young girl who is a student at Idlewild Hall goes missing. Idlewild is a school for wayward girls. The authorities believe she has just run away with some boy, but her friends and roommates know this is the farthest thing from the truth.
Barrons, Vermont -- 1994
Deb Sheridan another young woman is found dead in the field at Idlewild Hall, which has now been closed for many years. Her killer is her boyfriend at the time, Tim Christopher. Why would he leave her at this place?
Barrons, Vermont -- 2014
Someone has bought Idlewild Hall and plans to renovate it. But why? The place is nothing but a money pit. Fiona Sheridan is determined to find out who is buying the property and their motivation behind it. Will she be able to deal with all the secrets this place holds? When a body is found during the renovations, Fiona's attempts go into overdrive? Will she be able to find out who is behind this before she too becomes a subject of Idlewild?
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Going through this book, I was a little skeptical about what was going to happen. I'm not a big fan of books with ghosts, but this one wasn't too bad. I gave the book a rating of 3.5 stars. While the book was interesting, I found myself going for other things to do besides reading this book. The story flowed naturally even switching from the past to modern day.
Mary Hand is a ghost that haunts the grounds of Idlewild. She will show you things that you may not want to see. But is a ghost behind all the strange things that happen at Idlewild Hall or is there another culprit. We know for sure that Deb Sheridan was killed by her boyfriend, but what about the body found during the renovations? In 1950 the school was full of wayward girls. Girls who in those days, parents could not be bothered by and mental health was a taboo issue. So they sent their daughters away to school. Four girls in room 3C became very close friends. Sonia, Katie, CeCe and Roberta. The book tells their story from 1950 leading up to the disappearance of one of them and Fiona's perspective from 2014, trying to find out the history of Idlewild Hall and the new owners.
Overall, for me the book was good, not great. This is the first book I have read by Simone St. James. If her other books deal with ghosts and spirits, I'm not sure if I will read them or not, but I may give them a chance.
If you like ghosts though, I think you should give this book a try, YOU may enjoy it.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2065 KP) rated Some Like It Hawk (Meg Langslow, #14) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
When a bank repossessed all the buildings in Caerphilly, the town clerk boarded himself in the town hall basement. Now Meg, her family, and the rest of the town are smuggling supplies to him. But when a body turns up just outside his barricade, the jig may be up. Can Meg find the killer without giving away the secret? I love these characters, and I will never complaint about spending time with them. However, I felt the plot could have used more twists or something. And these books have lost some of their humor. Still, fans of the series will enjoy this one.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2013/07/book-review-some-like-it-hawk-by-donna.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2013/07/book-review-some-like-it-hawk-by-donna.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Russ Troutt (291 KP) rated Sing Street (2016) in Movies
Aug 4, 2019
Put on your makeup and dancing shoes for one of the best movies of 2016, Sing Street. With music from The Cure, the enjoyment of this movie is pure. It features some Duran Duran, gotta give the creators of Sing Street a hand. Not only does it have music from, but also will make you say A-Ha. I'm telling you it's a huge smash, it even includes awesome tunes from The Clash. With music from Hall & Oates, it will make you want to chase big dreams in a small boat. You'll get to hear Spandau Ballet, it'll leave you wanting to party all night and dance all day. After this review you might think I'm a ham, but give it a watch and you will even get to hear The Jam. Now it's time to get up on your feet for the best band of the year, Sing Street!
Midge (525 KP) rated The Buried Girl in Books
Mar 5, 2019
A Chilling Psychological Thriller with Gothic Elements
This book caught my eye as I loved the synopsis and I read a lot of books from this genre, although I haven’t read any of the author, Richard Montanari’s books before. “The Buried Girl” is a chilling psychological thriller with some added Gothic elements.
When the wife of a New York psychologist, Will Hardy, is murdered he moves into Godwin Hall, a dusty, shut-up mansion in the small town of Abbeville, Ohio, with his teenage daughter, Bernadette.
At the same time, Abbeville Chief of Police Ivy Holgrave is investigating the death of a local girl. She is convinced this may only be the latest in a long line of murders dating back decades, including her own long-missing sister.
But what place does Will's new home have in the story of the missing girls and why does he have past memories of Godwin Hall? Is the diary of a young woman, written over a century earlier, linked to the killings?
Richard Montanari writes a wonderfully atmospheric and compelling novel. Tense and suspenseful, the many threads of the story slowly begin to link together, central to which is Godwin Hall. Both the characterisation and the plot are superb with the three main characters damaged, but starting the process of recovery. I am hoping that there will be a sequel to this novel as it was a fantastic read which I highly recommend to lovers of thrillers and crime fiction.
{Thank you to Edelweiss and HarperCollins UK/Witness Impulse for the free copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
When the wife of a New York psychologist, Will Hardy, is murdered he moves into Godwin Hall, a dusty, shut-up mansion in the small town of Abbeville, Ohio, with his teenage daughter, Bernadette.
At the same time, Abbeville Chief of Police Ivy Holgrave is investigating the death of a local girl. She is convinced this may only be the latest in a long line of murders dating back decades, including her own long-missing sister.
But what place does Will's new home have in the story of the missing girls and why does he have past memories of Godwin Hall? Is the diary of a young woman, written over a century earlier, linked to the killings?
Richard Montanari writes a wonderfully atmospheric and compelling novel. Tense and suspenseful, the many threads of the story slowly begin to link together, central to which is Godwin Hall. Both the characterisation and the plot are superb with the three main characters damaged, but starting the process of recovery. I am hoping that there will be a sequel to this novel as it was a fantastic read which I highly recommend to lovers of thrillers and crime fiction.
{Thank you to Edelweiss and HarperCollins UK/Witness Impulse for the free copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated The Haunting of Highdown Hall (Psychic Surveys #1) in Books
Sep 16, 2021
150 of 250
Kindle
The Haunting of Highdown Hall ( Pyschic Surverys book 1 )
By Shai Struthers
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Based in Lewes, East Sussex, Ruby and her team of freelance psychics have been kept busy of late. Specialising in domestic cases, their solid reputation is spreading - it's not just the dead that can rest in peace but the living too. All is threatened when Ruby receives a call from the irate new owner of Highdown Hall. Film star, Cynthia Hart, is still in residence, despite having died in 1958.
Winter deepens and so does the mystery surrounding Cynthia. She insists the devil is blocking her path to the light long after Psychic Surveys have 'disproved' it. Investigating her apparently unblemished background, Ruby is pulled further and further into Cynthia's world and the darkness that now inhabits it. For the first time in her career, Ruby's deepest beliefs are challenged.
Does evil truly exist?
And if so, is it the most relentless force of all?
It wasn’t as good as I thought it may be but it wasn’t terrible either. Very middle of the road and an ok read. I like the premise and some of the stories. The ending was good and concluded the story of the spirit nicely. I will continue to book 2 as I think the series has promise.
Kindle
The Haunting of Highdown Hall ( Pyschic Surverys book 1 )
By Shai Struthers
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Based in Lewes, East Sussex, Ruby and her team of freelance psychics have been kept busy of late. Specialising in domestic cases, their solid reputation is spreading - it's not just the dead that can rest in peace but the living too. All is threatened when Ruby receives a call from the irate new owner of Highdown Hall. Film star, Cynthia Hart, is still in residence, despite having died in 1958.
Winter deepens and so does the mystery surrounding Cynthia. She insists the devil is blocking her path to the light long after Psychic Surveys have 'disproved' it. Investigating her apparently unblemished background, Ruby is pulled further and further into Cynthia's world and the darkness that now inhabits it. For the first time in her career, Ruby's deepest beliefs are challenged.
Does evil truly exist?
And if so, is it the most relentless force of all?
It wasn’t as good as I thought it may be but it wasn’t terrible either. Very middle of the road and an ok read. I like the premise and some of the stories. The ending was good and concluded the story of the spirit nicely. I will continue to book 2 as I think the series has promise.
Book Divas (227 KP) rated The Witch of Willow Hall in Books
Jun 7, 2019
A Surprising Gem
I can honestly say that this book surprised me. When I first started reading it, I felt somewhat bored and thought I wouldn't finish it. I am glad that I put it down and came back to it later in the day because once I started reading it again I couldn't put it down. The storyline flows ever so smoothly and the characters are beautiful though I must say that Catherine left a bad taste in my mouth. In reading this I was left with the desire to roam freely within Willow Hall and the grounds. I grew rather fond of Lydia and John and I hope that the author will continue their story.
LoganCrews (2861 KP) rated Anchorman - The Legend Of Ron Burgundy (2004) in Movies
Sep 21, 2020
Not the best Will Ferrell movie, not the best Adam McKay movie... not even the best Will Ferrell *and* Adam McKay movie. It's sloppy, looks like utter crap, and the comedy is largely hit or miss (the Steve Carell stuff particularly - working at about one hit for every four misses). All that being said however, when this does hit it's absolutely fucking hilarious and features some of the most cripplingly funny moments I've ever seen in a comedy film (that scene with Ferrell, Armisen, and the cat poop is an all-timer). What this lacks in presentation and consistency it makes up for admirably in categorical absurdity. If this were more polished it'd be a deadpan hall-of-famer about a bunch of colorful (literally and figuratively), dopey goofballs dabbling in real proud juvenility. Instead it ends up being a really good comedy, but there's room for some refining. You won't see me complaining about that too much, though. The cameos are close to flawless.
Jessi Bone (48 KP) rated Murder in the Reading Room in Books
Apr 30, 2019
Storyline (1 more)
Characters
How Far Would You Go For The Truth
Jane goes on a search to the Biltmore Estate to find Edward and discovers far more than she thought she knew about her own past. Now she must discover what she really wants for her future and her family she has created for herself and her sons. When enemies from the past and the present collide Jane must decide if the secrets of the library should be open for the world to see and read. As more of the story of the Templars and Guardians becomes unwound Jane discovers that everyone is keeping secrets from her both friends and foes that make her want to take a stand and change the rules of what has always been at Storyton Hall.
“Your Stories are their stories' said Uncle Abysius” By Jove, I think I like it.”
Mrs. Adams takes us beyond Storyton Hall to the walls of the Biltmore Estate. She outdoes herself again. As a long time Ellery Adams fan she blew me away with this story-line and how she evolved the characters in this five Book Retreat Series. I must say this is my favorite book of the series. I really recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a who done it, thriller, bibliophile or even a little romance it has all of those and a little history too. It is really worth your time to pick up the book and take a trip to Storyton Hall even if only for an hour at a time to escape to a place where books are protected and cherished and the characters will make you feel like you are coming home.
“Your Stories are their stories' said Uncle Abysius” By Jove, I think I like it.”
Mrs. Adams takes us beyond Storyton Hall to the walls of the Biltmore Estate. She outdoes herself again. As a long time Ellery Adams fan she blew me away with this story-line and how she evolved the characters in this five Book Retreat Series. I must say this is my favorite book of the series. I really recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a who done it, thriller, bibliophile or even a little romance it has all of those and a little history too. It is really worth your time to pick up the book and take a trip to Storyton Hall even if only for an hour at a time to escape to a place where books are protected and cherished and the characters will make you feel like you are coming home.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Perfect Guests in Books
Jan 14, 2021
A fascinating and atmospheric thriller
In 1988, fourteen-year-old Beth arrives at Raven Hall. An orphan, Beth has been chosen to keep Nina Averell, the teenage daughter who lives with her parents there, company. She becomes part of the family, almost feeling as if she belongs there. But then Nina's parents ask Beth to do something strange, forcing her to question everything, and soon nothing will ever be the same. In 2019, struggling actress Sadie Langton takes a job as part of a murder mystery dinner party. She's amazed when she arrives at the location, a beautiful manor called Raven Hall. But once the pretend party starts, Sadie realizes that something seems off--and that their "host" is toying with everyone, including her.
This was an excellent thriller that draws you in immediately and never lets go. Rous gives us an atmospheric tale, with Raven Hall and the Fens practically appearing before your eyes while reading. It doesn't get much better than a creepy book set in a weird, rambling castle, right?
THE PERFECT GUESTS alternates between Beth's story, set in the past; Sadie's, set in the present; and an unnamed voice. Trying to figure out how everyone is interconnected is part of the book's intrigue. I definitely worked some parts out early on--others were a surprise. Still, the result is a very twisty and compelling read.
Overall, this is a page-turner with a fascinating plot. I'm a fan of Emma Rous and her way of sucking the reader into her books. GUESTS sets an atmospheric scene and offers plenty for mystery fans to puzzle out. 3.75 stars, rounded up to 4 here.
I received a copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. It is available on 1/12/2021.
In 1988, fourteen-year-old Beth arrives at Raven Hall. An orphan, Beth has been chosen to keep Nina Averell, the teenage daughter who lives with her parents there, company. She becomes part of the family, almost feeling as if she belongs there. But then Nina's parents ask Beth to do something strange, forcing her to question everything, and soon nothing will ever be the same. In 2019, struggling actress Sadie Langton takes a job as part of a murder mystery dinner party. She's amazed when she arrives at the location, a beautiful manor called Raven Hall. But once the pretend party starts, Sadie realizes that something seems off--and that their "host" is toying with everyone, including her.
This was an excellent thriller that draws you in immediately and never lets go. Rous gives us an atmospheric tale, with Raven Hall and the Fens practically appearing before your eyes while reading. It doesn't get much better than a creepy book set in a weird, rambling castle, right?
THE PERFECT GUESTS alternates between Beth's story, set in the past; Sadie's, set in the present; and an unnamed voice. Trying to figure out how everyone is interconnected is part of the book's intrigue. I definitely worked some parts out early on--others were a surprise. Still, the result is a very twisty and compelling read.
Overall, this is a page-turner with a fascinating plot. I'm a fan of Emma Rous and her way of sucking the reader into her books. GUESTS sets an atmospheric scene and offers plenty for mystery fans to puzzle out. 3.75 stars, rounded up to 4 here.
I received a copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. It is available on 1/12/2021.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Spirit Ascendancy ( The Gateway Trilogy book 3) in Books
Nov 19, 2021
190 of 250
Kindle
Spirit Ascending ( The Gateway Trilogy book 3)
By E.E. Holmes
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
In the wake of their terrifying escape from Fairhaven Hall, sisters Jess and Hannah Ballard find themselves on the run, pursued by the two most powerful groups in the history of the spirit world.
On one side, the Durupinen, determined to capture the girls and prevent their role in an ancient prophecy that promises to destroy them and unleash the spirit hordes on the earth. On the other side, the Necromancers, ancient enemies of the Durupinen, hell-bent on bringing the same prophecy to fruition. When the girls are betrayed and one of them falls into the Necromancers' hands, both face decisions with cataclysmic consequences.
Will the lure of power prove too great to resist, or will the bond between the sisters survive this last, most crucial of tests?
This was possibly the hardest to get into and remember where that last one left off. But it was so good towards the end and definitely the ending it deserved. I’m looking forward to reading the following on series now too.
A good series for YA.
Kindle
Spirit Ascending ( The Gateway Trilogy book 3)
By E.E. Holmes
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
In the wake of their terrifying escape from Fairhaven Hall, sisters Jess and Hannah Ballard find themselves on the run, pursued by the two most powerful groups in the history of the spirit world.
On one side, the Durupinen, determined to capture the girls and prevent their role in an ancient prophecy that promises to destroy them and unleash the spirit hordes on the earth. On the other side, the Necromancers, ancient enemies of the Durupinen, hell-bent on bringing the same prophecy to fruition. When the girls are betrayed and one of them falls into the Necromancers' hands, both face decisions with cataclysmic consequences.
Will the lure of power prove too great to resist, or will the bond between the sisters survive this last, most crucial of tests?
This was possibly the hardest to get into and remember where that last one left off. But it was so good towards the end and definitely the ending it deserved. I’m looking forward to reading the following on series now too.
A good series for YA.