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Hazel (2934 KP) rated Dark Return (Leine Basso #6) in Books
Jul 22, 2018
Once again, D V Berkom writes a brilliant, fast-paced, thrilling read with a very strong female lead character in Leine Basso but she is not the star of the book in my humble opinion ... that would be Jinn, the little streetwise girl Leine saves from being murdered. What a star she is and I was as much enthralled by her story as I was with Leine's.
This book has it all ... action, murder, double-crossing, human trafficking, terrorism, espionage, intrigue, surprises, tension ... you name it, it's got it and all wrapped up in a well-written, fast-paced story that is not beyond the realms of possibility.
This is part of a series but, I feel, holds up extremely well as a stand-alone. There are recurring characters but the author has the ability to provide just enough information so you don't get lost but not so much that it detracts from the current story.
I received a copy of this book direct from the author which in no way influenced my review in any way shape or form and I would happily recommend this and any of D V Berkom's books especially if you are fed up with the usual male lead characters that most books of this genre seem to have ... you won't be disappointed.
This book has it all ... action, murder, double-crossing, human trafficking, terrorism, espionage, intrigue, surprises, tension ... you name it, it's got it and all wrapped up in a well-written, fast-paced story that is not beyond the realms of possibility.
This is part of a series but, I feel, holds up extremely well as a stand-alone. There are recurring characters but the author has the ability to provide just enough information so you don't get lost but not so much that it detracts from the current story.
I received a copy of this book direct from the author which in no way influenced my review in any way shape or form and I would happily recommend this and any of D V Berkom's books especially if you are fed up with the usual male lead characters that most books of this genre seem to have ... you won't be disappointed.
KarenRC (6 KP) rated The Anomaly in Books
Jul 23, 2018
Former screenwriter turned YouTuber Nolan Moore, has been leading his team and viewers on adventures to uncover mysteries in various locations, with increasingly disappointing results. His latest expedition takes them to the Grand Canyon in search of a cavern previously found by an old explorer that Nolan wants to see for himself. With his trusty team around him they head off, but after searching for two days, they start to lose hope. Just as they are about to give up and go home, they spot something high up on the canyon wall and for the first time, Nolan is convinced that he has finally uncovered an actual mystery. But what is the secret hidden in the cavern? And just how much are they going to wish that they had never found it?!
I am really excited to hear that the film rights for this book have been picked up because it is written like a Hollywood blockbuster. Not surprising really as the author is in fact a screenwriter from California! But after a bit of a slow start, the action picks up and it is then a fast-paced adventure. In the vein of Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider with some brilliant characters, especially Ken, I can definitely see this on the big screen and can't wait to see who they cast.
I am really excited to hear that the film rights for this book have been picked up because it is written like a Hollywood blockbuster. Not surprising really as the author is in fact a screenwriter from California! But after a bit of a slow start, the action picks up and it is then a fast-paced adventure. In the vein of Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider with some brilliant characters, especially Ken, I can definitely see this on the big screen and can't wait to see who they cast.
Mary (13 KP) rated The Den (2014) in Movies
Jul 28, 2018 (Updated Jul 29, 2018)
Contains spoilers, click to show
I was very taken by the trailer of the movie "The Den" because I viewed it as an actual fear that many people have in today's society. I was able to find the movie on Netflix and it was pretty enjoyable. The storyline progressed at a decent rate and, all in all, was very interesting. I would not consider it a horror film, it was more of a thriller in my opinion. There is a bit of gore, but it isn't bad for the category it falls into. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who scares easily or is paranoid of being watched through the webcams of electronic devices.
The addition of the dark web Red Room at the very end of the movie was very suprising. However, I found it to be a great addition to the storyline as it was a link to what the hackers were doing with their victims.
The addition of the dark web Red Room at the very end of the movie was very suprising. However, I found it to be a great addition to the storyline as it was a link to what the hackers were doing with their victims.
Ross (3282 KP) rated Perfect Silence in Books
Oct 9, 2018 (Updated Oct 9, 2018)
Gripping and thrilling detective story
*** Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book from the publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ***
This, the fourth DI Luc Callanach book, follows a familiar pattern - two crimes committed early on and parallel investigations into those cause conflict and tension, one being a more typical serial killer hunt, the other a more politically charged investigation.
Over the previous books it feels like Fields has grown bored of her French detective and has put a lot more focus into DCI Ava Turner. This is in no way a bad thing as she feels more real and likeable (less clichéd), but an odd progression for "The DI Callanach" series to have.
The action and cases in this book are quite compelling - young women being kidnapped and their mutilated bodies dumped a week later and a gruesome memento left in the locale of the next victim, with religious overtones; and a spate of drugged homeless people being branded in public places. As usual the killer leaves virtually no trace behind and it is quite some time before the detectives have any idea of who they are looking for.
I still have a few issues with the dialogue in these books, but the plot was solid here, with twists and turns along the way, with a very gripping, proper unputdownable final few chapters.
This, the fourth DI Luc Callanach book, follows a familiar pattern - two crimes committed early on and parallel investigations into those cause conflict and tension, one being a more typical serial killer hunt, the other a more politically charged investigation.
Over the previous books it feels like Fields has grown bored of her French detective and has put a lot more focus into DCI Ava Turner. This is in no way a bad thing as she feels more real and likeable (less clichéd), but an odd progression for "The DI Callanach" series to have.
The action and cases in this book are quite compelling - young women being kidnapped and their mutilated bodies dumped a week later and a gruesome memento left in the locale of the next victim, with religious overtones; and a spate of drugged homeless people being branded in public places. As usual the killer leaves virtually no trace behind and it is quite some time before the detectives have any idea of who they are looking for.
I still have a few issues with the dialogue in these books, but the plot was solid here, with twists and turns along the way, with a very gripping, proper unputdownable final few chapters.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2099 KP) rated I Lost My Tooth! in Books
Nov 6, 2018
Unlimited Fun and Learning with Mo Willems' New Series
Zoom Squirrel has lost one of his front teeth. Once his friends understand his problem, they pitch in to help find it, especially when they learn it is a baby tooth! Can they find this baby (tooth) before it gets too frightened?
Fans of Mo Willems won't be surprised at the first two thirds of this book. It may introduce us to a new set of characters, but the storytelling, humor, and fun are classic Mo, including the easy to read dialogue driven action. I was trying hard not to laugh in public as I finished it up. The rest of the book consists of some fun jokes and a couple of sections that tell us about teeth and quiz us on some animal teeth. It's actually quite interesting, and presented in a fun way, so kids will enjoy learning about it as well. They might even get interested in learning more on their own, which is a good thing. I didn't love it as much as I've loved some of his other picture books. I think my issue is, this isn't an Elephant and Piggie book. I certainly can't find another reason not to like this book, and I think kids will have so much fun they won't care.
Fans of Mo Willems won't be surprised at the first two thirds of this book. It may introduce us to a new set of characters, but the storytelling, humor, and fun are classic Mo, including the easy to read dialogue driven action. I was trying hard not to laugh in public as I finished it up. The rest of the book consists of some fun jokes and a couple of sections that tell us about teeth and quiz us on some animal teeth. It's actually quite interesting, and presented in a fun way, so kids will enjoy learning about it as well. They might even get interested in learning more on their own, which is a good thing. I didn't love it as much as I've loved some of his other picture books. I think my issue is, this isn't an Elephant and Piggie book. I certainly can't find another reason not to like this book, and I think kids will have so much fun they won't care.
Andy K (10821 KP) rated The Greatest Showman (2017) in Movies
Nov 25, 2018
A truly remarkable original modern musical classic!
I'm sure by now I am the only person in the world who hadn't seen The Greatest Showman until tonight. It was very much worth the wait.
The songs, look, art direction, make up, costumes, sets and cinematography were the true stars along with fantastic, mesmerizing performances by the entire cast. I was worried about Zac Efron, but he really held his own and I forgot about his High School Musical days. It was also surprising to see Michelle Williams in this type of role since I am used to seeing her in heavy dramas where she nearly never smiles. That was a pleasant surprise also.
Have to mention Hugh Jackman, a role he was born to play. He has to be the only actor who can command such a presence in gritty action films and charismatic characters like this one.
I could've done without the CGI lions and elephants since they did not look realistic and kind of took you out of those moments but a minor complaint.
The plot is certainly one from a musical meaning non super complicated or in-depth, maybe a little cheesy; however, it didn't bother me in this case.
I'm sure I'll be humming these songs for some time to come and watching it again with my daughter soon.
The songs, look, art direction, make up, costumes, sets and cinematography were the true stars along with fantastic, mesmerizing performances by the entire cast. I was worried about Zac Efron, but he really held his own and I forgot about his High School Musical days. It was also surprising to see Michelle Williams in this type of role since I am used to seeing her in heavy dramas where she nearly never smiles. That was a pleasant surprise also.
Have to mention Hugh Jackman, a role he was born to play. He has to be the only actor who can command such a presence in gritty action films and charismatic characters like this one.
I could've done without the CGI lions and elephants since they did not look realistic and kind of took you out of those moments but a minor complaint.
The plot is certainly one from a musical meaning non super complicated or in-depth, maybe a little cheesy; however, it didn't bother me in this case.
I'm sure I'll be humming these songs for some time to come and watching it again with my daughter soon.
Michael Packner (32 KP) rated Jurassic World (2015) in Movies
Jun 20, 2019
Returns a sense of wonder to the franchise. (5 more)
Brilliantly adresses plotholes and minor issues from previous installments.
Takes the next logical step in the series.
High quality dinosaur action.
New dinosaurs we haven't seen before.
Chris Pratt
This, at least in my opinion, is the second best film in the Jurassic Park/Jurassic World series. Just like the original, this installment returns that sense of wonder to the series by returning to the park setting. The dinosaurs are an attraction again rather than just dinosaurs living in the wild. People come from all over to see them and this time they've created a new species, the Indominus Rex. Sure it's corny, but the film acknowledges that and also plays on the fact that hybrid dinosaurs were the next logical step. I like the fact too that now that dinosaurs are no longer a new novelty in this universe that people have figured out it makes sense to train some of these animals from birth, hence the relationship between Owen and his Raptors. I like that if you're paying attention, you'll notice the film adresses plot holes from the previous films, especially the first one. This may not be everyone's cup of tea, but I enjoyed it. In my opinion this is the sequel we deserved from the very beginning.
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Courageous (Valiant Hearts, #3) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
I loved the first two books in the Valiant Hearts Series. Exciting and engaging. However, the final book in the series fell very short of my expectations. It was fun to revisit characters from the first two books, I love how the storylines cross over. The epilogue provided a satisfying conclusion to the series. But Courageous just could not hold my attention. The first half of the book is very slow and lacking in action. There was some discrepancy regarding dates in the beginning of the book, it may just have been a typo, but it made things very confusing for a bit. I enjoyed Randel and Rosalind's characters and their journey of growth, healing and courage. I highly recommend the first two books in the series: Dauntless and Chivalrous. You may enjoy Courageous more than I did, it just wasn't for me. Keep in mind that it has a very different feel and approach. I recommend reading this series in order. There are characters and circumstances that I don't believe can be fully appreciated unless you read the first books first.
I received a free copy of Courageous from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
My Rating
★★☆☆☆ - She is tolerable I suppose, but not handsome enough to tempt me.
I received a free copy of Courageous from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
My Rating
★★☆☆☆ - She is tolerable I suppose, but not handsome enough to tempt me.
Lindsay (1706 KP) rated Storm Taken in Books
Jan 4, 2019
Storm Taken is one action packed but also as some different elements to it. It was enjoyable and really a good way to look at a storm and the way we prescriptive them. Ever wonder what it like to look at thunderstorm and wonder it something of it own.
There a storm that taking be surprised by all. Things start to go missing? Is there someone taking things with out anyone knowing. To the locals on Naples they do not know that the storm is feeding on something until they are trapped on the island and can not get off or anyone can get on the island.
Can a storm feed of fear and make people to turn on one another or will they unite? I wonder about this if a storm really can feed off our fear? Is it some weather weaponize from the government? Is is a freak storm? To know for sure it hard to say. But the story behind it is good. There seems to be few plots and is there a mad man running around?
The author does a really good job with it. There seems to be a bit mystery. We learn that we may need to learn survive and get along with neighbors. Will the families work together or will they start turning on each other?
There a storm that taking be surprised by all. Things start to go missing? Is there someone taking things with out anyone knowing. To the locals on Naples they do not know that the storm is feeding on something until they are trapped on the island and can not get off or anyone can get on the island.
Can a storm feed of fear and make people to turn on one another or will they unite? I wonder about this if a storm really can feed off our fear? Is it some weather weaponize from the government? Is is a freak storm? To know for sure it hard to say. But the story behind it is good. There seems to be few plots and is there a mad man running around?
The author does a really good job with it. There seems to be a bit mystery. We learn that we may need to learn survive and get along with neighbors. Will the families work together or will they start turning on each other?
Shane Crick (5 KP) rated The Presence in Books
Dec 10, 2018
You enter the life of Rosalind and events that occur within her personal life. She ends up landing the job of Branch Manager at a local library. This library Is rumored to be haunted and harbors some Interesting characters that Rosalind has to endure at her workplace. Finding herself suddenly homeless and armed with her furry friend Tofu, Rosalind finds herself engulfed In an supernatural adventure that will forever change her life and those around her.
I really wanted to like this book, but found myself dredging on and couldn't wait to finish. For me, I found It was quite slow at arriving upon any action that started to make the book more Interesting. I generally enjoy mystery, supernatural books, but this one was a tough cookie overall. I truly wished the Author added a bit more drama within the first chapters to keep It Interesting, Instead of slowly, Increasing to a dismal climax, to be drug back down the hill to reach another one. There are some good plots within the book that kept me reading and wanting to find out what the final outcome would be. However, predictable most times, I persevered on to the finish line.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book and In return, this Is my personal, unbiased review of this particular book.
I really wanted to like this book, but found myself dredging on and couldn't wait to finish. For me, I found It was quite slow at arriving upon any action that started to make the book more Interesting. I generally enjoy mystery, supernatural books, but this one was a tough cookie overall. I truly wished the Author added a bit more drama within the first chapters to keep It Interesting, Instead of slowly, Increasing to a dismal climax, to be drug back down the hill to reach another one. There are some good plots within the book that kept me reading and wanting to find out what the final outcome would be. However, predictable most times, I persevered on to the finish line.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book and In return, this Is my personal, unbiased review of this particular book.