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ClareR (5603 KP) rated A Ladder To The Sky in Books
Oct 12, 2018
A fascinatingly awful main character!
Maurice Swift wants to be a writer. It doesn't matter that he isn't particularly gifted, because he has access to a great story. Erich Ackerman meets Maurice in a hotel in West Berlin in 1988 - and so begins Erich's fall from grace and Maurice's meteoric rise.
Maurice works his way through writers at an astonishing rate. He's a narcissist, I think. He needs the admiration of others and doesn't care how he gets it, and this manifests itself;f in the need to write books, be recognised as a respected award winning writer and make lots of money.
Not wanting to give anything away, but he does some really immoral, terrible things, and doesn't to have any guilt at all. He's an awful person. I don't know why a character like this can make such a good book. I can, actually. This book is so well written. I felt empathy for those he swindles out of their stories, and Maurice is a fascinating character. The reader is drawn to him, just as those poor writers are. I wanted to hate him, but just couldn't.
I loved this book and I've already started recommending it to everyone I know!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this wonderful book.
Maurice works his way through writers at an astonishing rate. He's a narcissist, I think. He needs the admiration of others and doesn't care how he gets it, and this manifests itself;f in the need to write books, be recognised as a respected award winning writer and make lots of money.
Not wanting to give anything away, but he does some really immoral, terrible things, and doesn't to have any guilt at all. He's an awful person. I don't know why a character like this can make such a good book. I can, actually. This book is so well written. I felt empathy for those he swindles out of their stories, and Maurice is a fascinating character. The reader is drawn to him, just as those poor writers are. I wanted to hate him, but just couldn't.
I loved this book and I've already started recommending it to everyone I know!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this wonderful book.
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post
May 8, 2021
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2099 KP) rated Case of the Bleus in Books
Nov 16, 2023 (Updated Nov 16, 2023)
You’ll Get the Bleus if You Skip This Book
The Northwest Cheese Invitational has come to Yarrow Glen, and with it, some of Willa Bauer’s coworkers from her previous job. She’s thrilled to show off her new cheese shop to them, but they are focused on the upcoming reading of the will of their boss, Max. Max not only ran a cheese shop in Oregon, but he had developed an award-winning blue cheese. When one of Willa’s former co-workers is killed, Willa wonders if the secret of the blue cheese was the motive. Can she solve the murder and figure out where the cheese is?
Obviously, there is a lot going on here, and the two storylines weave around each other wonderfully. I kept turning pages as quickly as I could to find out what was going to happen next. The climax could have been a little stronger, but my questions were all answered. It was wonderful to see the characters again. I love the community that is building around Willa. We get some updates in ongoing storylines, but if you jumped in here, you wouldn’t be confused. And you’ll be happy to satisfy your cheese cravings with the three recipes at the end of the book. The only reason I’m blue is that I have to wait for the next book in the series now.
Obviously, there is a lot going on here, and the two storylines weave around each other wonderfully. I kept turning pages as quickly as I could to find out what was going to happen next. The climax could have been a little stronger, but my questions were all answered. It was wonderful to see the characters again. I love the community that is building around Willa. We get some updates in ongoing storylines, but if you jumped in here, you wouldn’t be confused. And you’ll be happy to satisfy your cheese cravings with the three recipes at the end of the book. The only reason I’m blue is that I have to wait for the next book in the series now.
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post
Jul 7, 2022
BookInspector (124 KP) rated All This Has Nothing to Do with Me in Books
Sep 24, 2020
Well this one was weird… This book has a stunning cover, it is a tiny book, and I knew that this is going to be a quick read, and I bought it for only 10p when a couple of my nearby Poundlands were closing down. I thought it has a fun chick lit story for me, but I was very wrong… I kept reading it because I don’t like to DNF books, but till the last page, I have no idea what was it about.
The main character in this book is MS, and sometimes referred to as Monica, so it gives me a very strong feeling that this is some sort of memoir maybe? The one thing I could grasp was that MS is kind of psychologically unstable, she writes letters to the dead author, her relationship with XX is an absolute mess, but she kind of tries to explain her behaviour, by going back to the past and talking about her mother and stepdad. Yes, she had a difficult childhood, and if the story and format (it is a mash of letters, SMS, pictures, normal text etc.) would’ve been differently presented, it could’ve been an awesome memoir.
The writing style of this book was very unique and original, and it should’ve been really hard to write this book because it is filled with a huge amount of pictures. No, not some nice pictures, but pictures of random things e.g. a lighter taken from XX; sweaters worn on dates; 4pages of scooter pictures which might belong to XX, and many more. I think it took years to collect this amount of pictures, so props to the author for the patience and detail.
So, let me just jump to the conclusions here. This book won France’s Prix de Flore 2013 award, so it has to have something that I am not seeing, right? One thing I know, it wasn’t for me, but if you like award-winning books, which are different and really original, give this book a go, and you might enjoy it.
The main character in this book is MS, and sometimes referred to as Monica, so it gives me a very strong feeling that this is some sort of memoir maybe? The one thing I could grasp was that MS is kind of psychologically unstable, she writes letters to the dead author, her relationship with XX is an absolute mess, but she kind of tries to explain her behaviour, by going back to the past and talking about her mother and stepdad. Yes, she had a difficult childhood, and if the story and format (it is a mash of letters, SMS, pictures, normal text etc.) would’ve been differently presented, it could’ve been an awesome memoir.
The writing style of this book was very unique and original, and it should’ve been really hard to write this book because it is filled with a huge amount of pictures. No, not some nice pictures, but pictures of random things e.g. a lighter taken from XX; sweaters worn on dates; 4pages of scooter pictures which might belong to XX, and many more. I think it took years to collect this amount of pictures, so props to the author for the patience and detail.
So, let me just jump to the conclusions here. This book won France’s Prix de Flore 2013 award, so it has to have something that I am not seeing, right? One thing I know, it wasn’t for me, but if you like award-winning books, which are different and really original, give this book a go, and you might enjoy it.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Cult Classic by Fiona Grey in Music
Jun 21, 2019
Fiona Grey is an LA-based singer-songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. Not too long ago, she released a music video for her “Saviour” single featuring Emma Cole.
The Sean Berger-music video was choreographed by Kevin Stea (Madonna, Michael Jackson).
The visuals are an ode to Felini, Marie Antoinette, and the dark and dreamy black and white films of the ‘60s.
‘Saviour’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and charismatic instrumentation flavored with an indie-alternative aroma.
Also, the likable tune is featured on Fiona Grey’s latest EP, entitled, “Cult Classic”.
“Each song has its own identity and story it wants to tell.” – Fiona Grey
‘Cult Classic’ vocalizes cultural issues and expresses Fiona Grey’s vulnerability. Also, it highlights her anger towards the world we are living in and her desires for the world we are shaping.
Grammy Award-Winning Mike Schuppan (Paramore, M83, Ziggy Marley) produced the 6-track project. Also, Dave Cooley (Fitz & The Tantrums, Stone Temple Pilots) mastered it.
“There is a lot about living in a pop culture centered world that we deem as ‘normal behavior’. Also, I hope that the music can remind the listener that this follower-centric, alternate persona universe we live in is all temporary happiness.” – Fiona Grey
Fiona Grey draws inspiration from the world of Hollywood, it’s unrealistic expectations and the vices that people use as a form of escapism.
She hopes her music will help listeners aim to be the purest and honest versions of themselves.
The Sean Berger-music video was choreographed by Kevin Stea (Madonna, Michael Jackson).
The visuals are an ode to Felini, Marie Antoinette, and the dark and dreamy black and white films of the ‘60s.
‘Saviour’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and charismatic instrumentation flavored with an indie-alternative aroma.
Also, the likable tune is featured on Fiona Grey’s latest EP, entitled, “Cult Classic”.
“Each song has its own identity and story it wants to tell.” – Fiona Grey
‘Cult Classic’ vocalizes cultural issues and expresses Fiona Grey’s vulnerability. Also, it highlights her anger towards the world we are living in and her desires for the world we are shaping.
Grammy Award-Winning Mike Schuppan (Paramore, M83, Ziggy Marley) produced the 6-track project. Also, Dave Cooley (Fitz & The Tantrums, Stone Temple Pilots) mastered it.
“There is a lot about living in a pop culture centered world that we deem as ‘normal behavior’. Also, I hope that the music can remind the listener that this follower-centric, alternate persona universe we live in is all temporary happiness.” – Fiona Grey
Fiona Grey draws inspiration from the world of Hollywood, it’s unrealistic expectations and the vices that people use as a form of escapism.
She hopes her music will help listeners aim to be the purest and honest versions of themselves.
Andy K (10821 KP) rated Cronos (1994) in Movies
Jul 27, 2019
A Vampire film?
Contains spoilers, click to show
The feature film debut of now Academy Award winning director Guillermo del Toro does not disappoint!
A mysterious scarab is found after 400+ years in hiding by an old man. He decided to use the device which activates and attached to his skin. He initial pain is followed by the man starting to feel and look younger.
The situation deteriorates as the man continues to look worse and worse but gain in strength becoming able to withstand pain that would slay a normal man.
I really enjoyed the tone and look of this film. Even though it was low budget, del Toro made the most of it and it never felt cheap or the special effects look fake. The scarab was an interesting device and reminded me of the puzzle box in Hellraiser or the flying silver balls in Phantasm.
I liked the slow developing degenerative story and it never really says it is a vampire film although it feels more and more like that as the story develops.
Whenever you are watching a great foreign film, the subtitles just go away and it feels like you are watching an English speaking movie.
It's too bad there was never a sequel to this as I would've liked to see where the story went once the movie ended.
Highly recommended. Thanks @Erika
A mysterious scarab is found after 400+ years in hiding by an old man. He decided to use the device which activates and attached to his skin. He initial pain is followed by the man starting to feel and look younger.
The situation deteriorates as the man continues to look worse and worse but gain in strength becoming able to withstand pain that would slay a normal man.
I really enjoyed the tone and look of this film. Even though it was low budget, del Toro made the most of it and it never felt cheap or the special effects look fake. The scarab was an interesting device and reminded me of the puzzle box in Hellraiser or the flying silver balls in Phantasm.
I liked the slow developing degenerative story and it never really says it is a vampire film although it feels more and more like that as the story develops.
Whenever you are watching a great foreign film, the subtitles just go away and it feels like you are watching an English speaking movie.
It's too bad there was never a sequel to this as I would've liked to see where the story went once the movie ended.
Highly recommended. Thanks @Erika
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated Unscripted in Books
Nov 4, 2019
Young line producer Danny Byrd is well-known in Hollywood for being someone who gets things done on time and under budget. But when his reputation takes a beating after his partner--and former best friend--makes off with their investors' money, Danny has but one chance to redeem himself and restore his ruined career.
LA lawyer Megan Pierce has sacrificed years of her life proving herself to her impossible bosses only to find herself disgusted at their snobbery and their specious business practices. When an opportunity to actually make a difference comes her way, she knows she has to grab it--even though she's not entirely clear what "it" is.
Danny and Megan are each other's best hope for redemption. What they never could have imagined was that they might also be each other's best hope for love.
Bestselling and award-winning author Davis Bunn takes you into the beating heart of Hollywood with two characters determined to thrive in a cutthroat business.
My Thoughts: An interesting story that revolves around LA and the movie industry. This novel deals with the subject of redemption, forgiveness learning to trust and starting over. Danny started life hard, growing up in foster homes, his best friend and his partner who ruins his career. Danny soon learns that there are people he can trust and that he can start over.
A very interesting read that I am sure readers will enjoy.
LA lawyer Megan Pierce has sacrificed years of her life proving herself to her impossible bosses only to find herself disgusted at their snobbery and their specious business practices. When an opportunity to actually make a difference comes her way, she knows she has to grab it--even though she's not entirely clear what "it" is.
Danny and Megan are each other's best hope for redemption. What they never could have imagined was that they might also be each other's best hope for love.
Bestselling and award-winning author Davis Bunn takes you into the beating heart of Hollywood with two characters determined to thrive in a cutthroat business.
My Thoughts: An interesting story that revolves around LA and the movie industry. This novel deals with the subject of redemption, forgiveness learning to trust and starting over. Danny started life hard, growing up in foster homes, his best friend and his partner who ruins his career. Danny soon learns that there are people he can trust and that he can start over.
A very interesting read that I am sure readers will enjoy.
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post
Apr 25, 2022 (Updated Apr 25, 2022)
Bob Mann (459 KP) rated Molly's Game (2017) in Movies
Sep 29, 2021
Wordy but entertaining.
You can never accuse Aaron Sorkin of skimping on his words. Sorkin is of course the award-winning writer of “The West Wing” but on the big screen he has also written many classics: “A Few Good Men”; “The Social Network” and “Steve Jobs” for example. Here he also makes his directorial debut in a movie about the true-life turbulent career of Olympic wannabe skier Molly Bloom.
Bloom is played by Jessica Chastain, from films such as “Zero Dark Thirty” and “Miss Sloane” (one of my films of the year last year). Chastain’s roles as an actress are often quite cold and calculating, as suits her demeanour. As such her characters are not often easy to warm to in movies (and as such, my wife is not a fan).
Taking the piste. Molly in her younger ski-centric role.
Here as Molly Bloom she is as equally driven as in “Miss Sloane“, but the drive is learned from her father (Kevin Costner), bullying her to be the best she can be at skiing in a highly competitive family. Forced out of the skiing business (for reasons I won’t spoil), she takes a “gap year” from law school that turns into a “gap life” after she falls into the slightly shady business of running poker nights for LA’s rich elite. It’s here that Chastain’s Bloom is able to show a gentler and more compassionate side, trying to talk some of her clients (who invariably fall in love with her) off the ledge of their gambling addiction.
Chris O’Dowd as one of the punter’s in deep.
Sorkin’s script (based on Molly’s own autobiography, I should add) does a really nice job of cutting backwards and forwards through Molly’s timeline to drill into motivations and her mental state, and in doing so he pulls out an award-winning (or at least Golden-Globe award-nominating) performance from Chastain in the process. Also very effective though is Kevin Costner (“Hidden Figures“, “Man of Steel“), who is quietly building an impressive portfolio of supporting actor roles. Here he rather dials in his “tough and aloof guy” performance until the park bench scene (below) where he surprises in a good way.
Benches with wolves. Kevin Costner impressive as Molly’s hard-line father.
It’s also a blessed relief to find a decent vehicle to showcase the undoubted talents of Britain’s Idris Elba – an actor who has been woefully served by rubbish such as “Bastille Day“, rather lame sequels like “Star Trek: Beyond” or minor roles such as in “Thor: Ragnarok“. Here he can really get his teeth into the role of Molly’s lawyer, with a multi-layered character that reveals a little – but not too much of – his back-story to leave you with intriguing questions.
An indecisive Charlie Jaffey (Idris Elba) can make his mind up about Molly (Jessica Chastain).
So it’s a good film, but an intelligent watch that mandates your attention. The script is sufficiently dense and wordy that it requires significant concentration: this is not a “park your brain at the door” type of ‘Michael Bay film’. (As such, while it remains a recommended watch, I’m not sure it would be one that would necessarily make my DVD list for repeat watchings).
Michael Cera (centre) as the mysterious but powerful “Player X”; a Hollywood actor, but who is he supposed to be? (Answers on a postcard!).
But again, I must comment on what an amazing year this is turning out to be for women in film. Less #Me-too and more #She-do! Once again, here is a movie where a confident woman is firmly in the driving seat, and while powerful men try to bring her down, it is not them that succeeds. (The studio bill for talent in the past year must be a LOT less than it was the year before! #don’tshootme #topicalhumour #CarrieGracey). #TimesUp.
Bloom is played by Jessica Chastain, from films such as “Zero Dark Thirty” and “Miss Sloane” (one of my films of the year last year). Chastain’s roles as an actress are often quite cold and calculating, as suits her demeanour. As such her characters are not often easy to warm to in movies (and as such, my wife is not a fan).
Taking the piste. Molly in her younger ski-centric role.
Here as Molly Bloom she is as equally driven as in “Miss Sloane“, but the drive is learned from her father (Kevin Costner), bullying her to be the best she can be at skiing in a highly competitive family. Forced out of the skiing business (for reasons I won’t spoil), she takes a “gap year” from law school that turns into a “gap life” after she falls into the slightly shady business of running poker nights for LA’s rich elite. It’s here that Chastain’s Bloom is able to show a gentler and more compassionate side, trying to talk some of her clients (who invariably fall in love with her) off the ledge of their gambling addiction.
Chris O’Dowd as one of the punter’s in deep.
Sorkin’s script (based on Molly’s own autobiography, I should add) does a really nice job of cutting backwards and forwards through Molly’s timeline to drill into motivations and her mental state, and in doing so he pulls out an award-winning (or at least Golden-Globe award-nominating) performance from Chastain in the process. Also very effective though is Kevin Costner (“Hidden Figures“, “Man of Steel“), who is quietly building an impressive portfolio of supporting actor roles. Here he rather dials in his “tough and aloof guy” performance until the park bench scene (below) where he surprises in a good way.
Benches with wolves. Kevin Costner impressive as Molly’s hard-line father.
It’s also a blessed relief to find a decent vehicle to showcase the undoubted talents of Britain’s Idris Elba – an actor who has been woefully served by rubbish such as “Bastille Day“, rather lame sequels like “Star Trek: Beyond” or minor roles such as in “Thor: Ragnarok“. Here he can really get his teeth into the role of Molly’s lawyer, with a multi-layered character that reveals a little – but not too much of – his back-story to leave you with intriguing questions.
An indecisive Charlie Jaffey (Idris Elba) can make his mind up about Molly (Jessica Chastain).
So it’s a good film, but an intelligent watch that mandates your attention. The script is sufficiently dense and wordy that it requires significant concentration: this is not a “park your brain at the door” type of ‘Michael Bay film’. (As such, while it remains a recommended watch, I’m not sure it would be one that would necessarily make my DVD list for repeat watchings).
Michael Cera (centre) as the mysterious but powerful “Player X”; a Hollywood actor, but who is he supposed to be? (Answers on a postcard!).
But again, I must comment on what an amazing year this is turning out to be for women in film. Less #Me-too and more #She-do! Once again, here is a movie where a confident woman is firmly in the driving seat, and while powerful men try to bring her down, it is not them that succeeds. (The studio bill for talent in the past year must be a LOT less than it was the year before! #don’tshootme #topicalhumour #CarrieGracey). #TimesUp.