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Merissa (11800 KP) rated Stalking the Goddess in Books
Dec 17, 2018
Stalking The Goddess by Mark Carter is not a book to be taken lightly or to be read as a fill-in. This book deserves your attention as Mark Carter has tried to do the near-impossible and unravel a book that has long been thought of as a Pagan Must-Have. The White Goddess by Robert Graves has long been considered as one of the ultimate books for a Pagan to own, with links to the Welsh Celtic path and showing how, through poetry, that paganism lived on through the ages.
Stalking The Goddess is written like a thesis or dissertation from a university so will appeal to any academically-minded out there. This did make it quite hard going at times and I would read some and then take a break to digest what I had read.
Mark Carter has “untangled the woods” of The White Goddess and made it more accessible to the Pagan who would like to know more about it and where Robert Graves got his sources. Mark Carter has made it possible to see who has influenced Robert Graves, both in a positive and also a negative way, by showing whose work was used and which was not.
One of the things that I found most interesting was that although The White Goddess boasts a Welsh Celtic basis, Robert Graves had actually pulled on stories from the whole of Europe, as well as from the Bible, the Jews and used stories from the Saracens to compile his book and it somehow all seemed to fit which is where Mark Carter has excelled. Star Wars even makes an appearance!
In no way is Mark Carter dismissing The White Goddess and even states in the Epilogue that without The White Goddess it is unlikely that paganism would have developed as it did.
Overall, I would recommend this book for anyone who is interested in the history of The White Goddess, or for someone who has an academic “twist”. Thought provoking and a very interesting read.
Stalking The Goddess is written like a thesis or dissertation from a university so will appeal to any academically-minded out there. This did make it quite hard going at times and I would read some and then take a break to digest what I had read.
Mark Carter has “untangled the woods” of The White Goddess and made it more accessible to the Pagan who would like to know more about it and where Robert Graves got his sources. Mark Carter has made it possible to see who has influenced Robert Graves, both in a positive and also a negative way, by showing whose work was used and which was not.
One of the things that I found most interesting was that although The White Goddess boasts a Welsh Celtic basis, Robert Graves had actually pulled on stories from the whole of Europe, as well as from the Bible, the Jews and used stories from the Saracens to compile his book and it somehow all seemed to fit which is where Mark Carter has excelled. Star Wars even makes an appearance!
In no way is Mark Carter dismissing The White Goddess and even states in the Epilogue that without The White Goddess it is unlikely that paganism would have developed as it did.
Overall, I would recommend this book for anyone who is interested in the history of The White Goddess, or for someone who has an academic “twist”. Thought provoking and a very interesting read.
Amanda (7 KP) rated Twilight (2008) in Movies
Sep 9, 2017
better than the book
Contains spoilers, click to show
Edward is an abusive jerk (stalking, controlling, literally saying he is trying not to kill her) and relationships should not be like this. It is movies and books like this that teach young girls that it is ok to be treated this way and they end up being hurt mentally or physically. That being said this is the only movie I have seen that was done better than the book. In the book Bella's relationship with Jacob begins on a beach when she fake flirts with him to get information on Edward, she then continues to string him along even though she does no like him, this is not ok! In the movie however he just happens to like her and she seems to show interest back creating an actual love triangle situation.
Madbatdan82 (341 KP) rated Halloween (2018) in Movies
Feb 28, 2019
Michael Myers is back but unfortunately for him so is Laurie Strode!
Contains spoilers, click to show
I was on board with this as soon as I saw the trailer showing a more grizzled badass Laurie and that really is the highlight of this film. There are 2 twists in this film. 1 is quite unnecessary but leads to quite a glorious head squash which is the standout bit of gore. The second twist is excellent, paying homage to the original we get scenes similar to those from the first but roles reversed so that Laurie takes Michael's place and is stalking him showing her evolution from victim to prepared survivor/hunter. So yeah not a perfect film but a really solid effort. Hopefully leads to a new run of films with Laurie and her brood.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2099 KP) rated Pairing a Deception in Books
May 8, 2018
Food, Wine, Murder
Katie Stillwell and her boyfriend, Dean, are out of town for the weekend, spending it at a food and wine festival outside of Santa Barbara. Several times on opening night, they witness a woman who seems to be stalking festival emcee, Hudson Wiley. When a dead body turns up, they begin to wonder what is going on.
With Katie and Dean out of town, they are the only two real returning characters in the series, but I loved getting to spend more time with them. The new characters are good. The mystery is a little light, but once we get past some set up, Katie uncovers some surprises before we reach the logical and suspenseful conclusion. I’m not a wine lover, but the facts about wine certainly make me want to taste some and see if I can tell the differences that Katie talks about, and those who do love wine will enjoy the pairing suggestions at the beginning of each chapter.
With Katie and Dean out of town, they are the only two real returning characters in the series, but I loved getting to spend more time with them. The new characters are good. The mystery is a little light, but once we get past some set up, Katie uncovers some surprises before we reach the logical and suspenseful conclusion. I’m not a wine lover, but the facts about wine certainly make me want to taste some and see if I can tell the differences that Katie talks about, and those who do love wine will enjoy the pairing suggestions at the beginning of each chapter.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2099 KP) rated The Floating Light Bulb in Books
Jul 5, 2018
Eli Finds Himself Creating Magic and Stalking a Killer at the Mall of America
Magician Eli Marks and his uncle Harry are taking in a magic act at the Mall of America since the magician is a former student of Harry’s. The show is lackluster at best, but it gets worse when the magician misses a cue at the end of the show. It turns out that’s because the magician is dead, and soon Eli finds himself taking his place in an effort to help find the killer. Will he learn anything useful?
Part of this book finds Eli learning a new trick and interacting with his new co-workers, something that I felt overwhelmed the mystery at times. Things were still sprinkled in that helped lead us to the surprising and satisfying conclusion, however. And I loved seeing Eli interacting with his new co-workers, so I had fun the entire way through the book. The cast of characters is fantastic as always, including getting to see some regulars who were missing in the previous book.
Part of this book finds Eli learning a new trick and interacting with his new co-workers, something that I felt overwhelmed the mystery at times. Things were still sprinkled in that helped lead us to the surprising and satisfying conclusion, however. And I loved seeing Eli interacting with his new co-workers, so I had fun the entire way through the book. The cast of characters is fantastic as always, including getting to see some regulars who were missing in the previous book.
LeftSideCut (3778 KP) rated Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988) in Movies
Mar 15, 2021
Ignore the fact that Michael Myers' mask looks a bit silly in this one and there's a lot to love.
It's back-to-basics approach of Myers stalking his way though Haddonfield is a welcome one after the hospital setting of II, and the bonkers acid trip of III.
Danielle Harris displays a damn fine performance as lead kid character Jamie Lloyd, and Donald Pleasance returns again as Loomis (apparently not dead after the almost certainly fatal explosion he was right next to at the end of II), acting suitably crazy as is to be expected by now.
There are some great shots on display, once again, courtesy of the simple, striking, and terrifying look of Michael Myers (from far away this time though, seriously, the mask looks really silly close up) and the general production values are pretty decent.
It's of course not a patch on the original, but as far as sequels go, Halloween 4 is one of the better ones. Also, one character gets impaled with a shotgun, which is just ridiculous and fantastic at the same time.
It's back-to-basics approach of Myers stalking his way though Haddonfield is a welcome one after the hospital setting of II, and the bonkers acid trip of III.
Danielle Harris displays a damn fine performance as lead kid character Jamie Lloyd, and Donald Pleasance returns again as Loomis (apparently not dead after the almost certainly fatal explosion he was right next to at the end of II), acting suitably crazy as is to be expected by now.
There are some great shots on display, once again, courtesy of the simple, striking, and terrifying look of Michael Myers (from far away this time though, seriously, the mask looks really silly close up) and the general production values are pretty decent.
It's of course not a patch on the original, but as far as sequels go, Halloween 4 is one of the better ones. Also, one character gets impaled with a shotgun, which is just ridiculous and fantastic at the same time.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Envy in Books
May 22, 2019
She wants your life and shell do anything to get it
Erica has always wanted to be exactly like her neighbour, Faye: beautiful, thin, and a mother. But Fayes life isnt as perfect as it seems she has a terrible secret, and slowly but surely, it is threatening to destroy her and everything she holds dear.
When Fayes daughter Tamsin goes missing after school, the police turn to Erica. But is Erica the only one who has been enviously watching Faye? Or is there another threat hiding in the shadows ?
Well this is a right tale of stalking,obsession, fury, longing and ENVY!
This story is very well written and flows easily.
The novel is broken down into several small chapters which makes this an easy fast read.
I really enjoyed the evolution of the characters throughout the book.
Be warned the story is told from 4 different POVs' which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I thought this was as an amazing thriller which I thoroughly enjoyed reading and can wholeheartedly recommend.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Erica has always wanted to be exactly like her neighbour, Faye: beautiful, thin, and a mother. But Fayes life isnt as perfect as it seems she has a terrible secret, and slowly but surely, it is threatening to destroy her and everything she holds dear.
When Fayes daughter Tamsin goes missing after school, the police turn to Erica. But is Erica the only one who has been enviously watching Faye? Or is there another threat hiding in the shadows ?
Well this is a right tale of stalking,obsession, fury, longing and ENVY!
This story is very well written and flows easily.
The novel is broken down into several small chapters which makes this an easy fast read.
I really enjoyed the evolution of the characters throughout the book.
Be warned the story is told from 4 different POVs' which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I thought this was as an amazing thriller which I thoroughly enjoyed reading and can wholeheartedly recommend.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
AJaneClark (3962 KP) rated Closer Than You Think (The Cincinnati Series) in Books
Dec 22, 2019
Different is good
Dr Faith Corcoran, therapist to sex offenders and rapists is on the run. She has changed her identity and moved from Florida to Ohio to escape the man that has been stalking her for years.
En route to her new home, she discovers a woman, naked in the road, in need of help.
Help arrives in the form of Deacon Novak. A mysteriously handsome, white haired man, with unusual eyes, and a long leather coat.
Deacon and Faith share instant chemistry, and D can’t help but feel the urge to protect her. Especially when the naked stranger utters Faiths name.
Unfortunately for Faith, her new home is a playground for a serial killer hellbent on getting rid of Faith, and now Deacon, and all they care about.
Faith and Deacon have to learn to trust each other if they are going to survive, and save his hostages.
Reading this I was gripped from the start, and then caught up in the twists and turns that Rose weaves into the plot line. The characters are really likeable, and you can’t help but feel some of the turmoil they are going through to stay safe. Its longer than my normal reads, but I didn’t let this put me off, not that it was a hardship! I had more difficulty trying to put it down.
En route to her new home, she discovers a woman, naked in the road, in need of help.
Help arrives in the form of Deacon Novak. A mysteriously handsome, white haired man, with unusual eyes, and a long leather coat.
Deacon and Faith share instant chemistry, and D can’t help but feel the urge to protect her. Especially when the naked stranger utters Faiths name.
Unfortunately for Faith, her new home is a playground for a serial killer hellbent on getting rid of Faith, and now Deacon, and all they care about.
Faith and Deacon have to learn to trust each other if they are going to survive, and save his hostages.
Reading this I was gripped from the start, and then caught up in the twists and turns that Rose weaves into the plot line. The characters are really likeable, and you can’t help but feel some of the turmoil they are going through to stay safe. Its longer than my normal reads, but I didn’t let this put me off, not that it was a hardship! I had more difficulty trying to put it down.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Destiny Kills (Myth and Magic #1) in Books
Nov 7, 2021
184 of 250
Book
Destiny kills ( Myth and Magic book1)
By Keri Arthur
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Desire calls. Danger Lurks.
But...
When Destiny McCree wakes up beside a dead man on an Oregon beach, she knows only this: she has to keep moving, keep searching, and keep one step ahead of the forces that have been pursuing her from the heart of Scotland to this isolated spot. Why? The death of her lover has left her alone, with little memory of her past. A glimmering serpent-shaped ring is the one clue she has - and a bargaining chip in a most dangerous game.
Enter Trae Wilson, a master thief with a sexy, knowing grin and a secret agenda of his own. Destiny and Trae both have powers far beyond the human - and both are running for their lives. Together they're riding a tide of danger, magic, and lust.but with killers stalking their every move, they must use any means necessary, even each other, to survive - until the shocking secret of one woman's destiny finally unravels..
Keri Arthur is one of my favourite writers I absolutely love all her books. This was no exception dragon shifters are my absolute favourite and this book didn’t disappoint.
Book
Destiny kills ( Myth and Magic book1)
By Keri Arthur
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Desire calls. Danger Lurks.
But...
When Destiny McCree wakes up beside a dead man on an Oregon beach, she knows only this: she has to keep moving, keep searching, and keep one step ahead of the forces that have been pursuing her from the heart of Scotland to this isolated spot. Why? The death of her lover has left her alone, with little memory of her past. A glimmering serpent-shaped ring is the one clue she has - and a bargaining chip in a most dangerous game.
Enter Trae Wilson, a master thief with a sexy, knowing grin and a secret agenda of his own. Destiny and Trae both have powers far beyond the human - and both are running for their lives. Together they're riding a tide of danger, magic, and lust.but with killers stalking their every move, they must use any means necessary, even each other, to survive - until the shocking secret of one woman's destiny finally unravels..
Keri Arthur is one of my favourite writers I absolutely love all her books. This was no exception dragon shifters are my absolute favourite and this book didn’t disappoint.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Snow White, Blood Red in Books
Apr 9, 2022
62 of 230
Snow White , Blood Red (Fairy tale anthology book 1)
Edited by Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Exploring the darker side of popular fairy tales, this anthology features dark and erotic tales of trolls and ogres, bewitched princesses, and magical kingdoms.
There were a few I picked out that I liked and I found a few new authors to try.
The Frog Prince by Gahan Wilson - Really enjoyed this it was a strange little story very Alice in Wonderland feel.
Stalking Beans by Nancy Kress - This is definitely a different adult spin on Jack and the beanstalk!
Snow Drop by Tabitha Lee - This was my favourite by far. A dark twisty version of Snow White and her step mother very dark.
Little Red by Wendy Wheeler - This gave me creepy shivers. Very well written unfortunately I can’t find anything by this author!
The Root of the Matter by Gregory Frost - This is a very adult version of Repunzel kinda dark and to the point.
The Changelings by Melanie Tem - Strange little story with some very sad undertones.
Troll Bridge by Neil Gaiman - I love Neil Gaiman he has such a unique storytelling ability and this did not disappoint!
Overall it was a good little anthology!
Snow White , Blood Red (Fairy tale anthology book 1)
Edited by Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Exploring the darker side of popular fairy tales, this anthology features dark and erotic tales of trolls and ogres, bewitched princesses, and magical kingdoms.
There were a few I picked out that I liked and I found a few new authors to try.
The Frog Prince by Gahan Wilson - Really enjoyed this it was a strange little story very Alice in Wonderland feel.
Stalking Beans by Nancy Kress - This is definitely a different adult spin on Jack and the beanstalk!
Snow Drop by Tabitha Lee - This was my favourite by far. A dark twisty version of Snow White and her step mother very dark.
Little Red by Wendy Wheeler - This gave me creepy shivers. Very well written unfortunately I can’t find anything by this author!
The Root of the Matter by Gregory Frost - This is a very adult version of Repunzel kinda dark and to the point.
The Changelings by Melanie Tem - Strange little story with some very sad undertones.
Troll Bridge by Neil Gaiman - I love Neil Gaiman he has such a unique storytelling ability and this did not disappoint!
Overall it was a good little anthology!