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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2091 KP) rated Some Like it Haute in Books
Nov 11, 2020
Haute Time in a Small Town
Samantha Kidd has landed yet another temporary job in her home town of Ribbon, Pennsylvania. This time, she’s helping her ex-boyfriend’s maybe ex-girlfriend prepare a fashion show. Amanda is going to turn heads with this collection – assuming nothing goes wrong before then. Samantha thinks everything is going well, so she is surprised when she is fired the night before the big event. Then she is attacked on her way out to her car as she leaves. But when disaster strikes the show, Samantha begins to suspect that something larger is at work. Can she figure out what is going on?
The plot of this book started from page one and never let up. Samantha is facing quite a few challenges over the course of the story, and they always kept me engaged. While I don’t know much about fashion, it was used as a backdrop to the mystery, and I never felt left out. Having said that, Samantha’s fashion knowledge does provide her with a couple of clues that help her solve the mystery. Samantha is the strongest character in the book. The rest are interesting and hold our attention, but Samantha is the one who really shines. She’s also the one who gets the most growth, and I enjoyed watching that happen. I’m now anxious to see what happens to Samantha next.
The plot of this book started from page one and never let up. Samantha is facing quite a few challenges over the course of the story, and they always kept me engaged. While I don’t know much about fashion, it was used as a backdrop to the mystery, and I never felt left out. Having said that, Samantha’s fashion knowledge does provide her with a couple of clues that help her solve the mystery. Samantha is the strongest character in the book. The rest are interesting and hold our attention, but Samantha is the one who really shines. She’s also the one who gets the most growth, and I enjoyed watching that happen. I’m now anxious to see what happens to Samantha next.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2091 KP) rated Grand Theft Retro in Books
Apr 7, 2021
When Retro Fashions Become Criminally Hot
Samantha Kidd has finally landed a steady job working at an on-line fashion magazine. But when her boss announces plans to release a print edition focused on fashion from the 1970’s, things turn mysterious quickly. The collection of clothing that they planned to use for the magazine is stolen, and Samantha receives threats aimed at her and her friends. Trying to keep everyone safe, she sets out alone to figure out what is going on. Can she do it?
This book kept me off balance but in a good way. There were so many twists and surprises that I never could quite figure out what was going on until I reached the end, when everything made perfect sense. It also meant that I never wanted to put the book down. Samantha is capable of carrying much of this book on her own, but the appearances from the regulars we do get are wonderful. And we see some interesting growth in several of these relationships. Some of her antics had me laughing along the way. My lack of interest in fashion was once again no issue since that is the hook to get us into the story. This is a delightful mystery filled with twists and turns that will keep you entertained.
This book kept me off balance but in a good way. There were so many twists and surprises that I never could quite figure out what was going on until I reached the end, when everything made perfect sense. It also meant that I never wanted to put the book down. Samantha is capable of carrying much of this book on her own, but the appearances from the regulars we do get are wonderful. And we see some interesting growth in several of these relationships. Some of her antics had me laughing along the way. My lack of interest in fashion was once again no issue since that is the hook to get us into the story. This is a delightful mystery filled with twists and turns that will keep you entertained.
Kate (355 KP) rated The Devil Wears Prada (2006) in Movies
Jan 23, 2019
Very good film and you don't need to be interested in fashion although the scene where she walks through New York and the clothes change every time she passes behind a bus or turns a corner, must have taken ages to shoot that scene and get the continuity correct. Have read the book and yes things are altered for the film but in this instance I think the film is better.
BookwormLea (3034 KP) rated Cruella (2021) in Movies
Sep 10, 2021
Amazing origin story!
I loved this film. Emma Stone plays an amazing evil genius and I love that Cruella has always been into fashion. Explains her obsession with it in the original animation. I also like the subtle nods to the original like Anita and Pongo and Perdita! Adding the extra twist of Lost family and death makes it so much better! Really amazing and would definitely watch again!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2091 KP) rated Fashionably Late in Books
Sep 20, 2019
I’m Late Reading This Book, But I Enjoyed It
It all starts with a fashion show. It’s fashion week in Milano – Milano, Florida, that is, and Summer Smythe has snagged tickets for herself and her friend Dorothy Westin to the luncheon and fashion show that are kicking things off. However, things take a strange turn when Angelica Downs, one of the models, asks them for help before the show starts. When they try to track her down, they find her dead body. Angelica’s mother, Frankie, is living in the part of their senior center for those with memory issues, and Dorothy and Summer are worried that Frankie might be next. However, when they go to talk to Frankie, that only leaves them with more questions. Is a killer after Frankie? Who killed Angelica? Can Dorothy and Summer figure out what is really going on?
Having read the previous two books in this series, I knew what to expect, and I wasn’t disappointed. The plot starts off strongly. We don’t seem to be gathering any clues right off the bat, but there is still plenty happening to keep our interest. Naturally, much of that comes back into play as the book leads us to the logical conclusion. The climax was a tad rushed, but it was also fun and answered all of our questions. The characters range from fairly realistic, like Dorothy, to less so, like Summer, to outright wacky. The mix works for this book. We care enough to want to see justice done, but we also are having fun laughing and smiling as things go along. The book is set in December, but the holidays only color events a little. Instead, this is more about the fashion shows and the events happening in connection with them. If you are looking for a delightful book, this is definitely one to pick up.
Having read the previous two books in this series, I knew what to expect, and I wasn’t disappointed. The plot starts off strongly. We don’t seem to be gathering any clues right off the bat, but there is still plenty happening to keep our interest. Naturally, much of that comes back into play as the book leads us to the logical conclusion. The climax was a tad rushed, but it was also fun and answered all of our questions. The characters range from fairly realistic, like Dorothy, to less so, like Summer, to outright wacky. The mix works for this book. We care enough to want to see justice done, but we also are having fun laughing and smiling as things go along. The book is set in December, but the holidays only color events a little. Instead, this is more about the fashion shows and the events happening in connection with them. If you are looking for a delightful book, this is definitely one to pick up.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated The Suitable Woman - Single by Layla Kardan in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Layla Kardan is an Iranian-rooted pop star living in the United Arab Emirates. Arwa Al Banawi is one of Saudi Arabia’s most exciting and upcoming fashion designers. Not too long ago, they collaborated on a music video for Kardan’s “The Suitable Woman” single.
“‘The Suitable Woman’ is the slogan of my label and celebrates the woman on the go. Also, a woman who fights for her beliefs and proactively chases her dreams to realize her fullest potential.” – Arwa Al Banawi
Layla Kardan is focused on changing the perception of a woman’s role in society and pushing for gender equality. Also, her aim is to educate both Middle Eastern and Western audiences.
Collaborating with production company D Journal, the pair have produced a fashion-forward, edgy video. The audiovisual features some of the region’s biggest fashion influencers such as Rania Fawaz, Zeynab El Helw, Jory Al Maiman, and Tamara Al Gabbani.
“Arwa’s brand is all about being a bold and expressive woman who is not hindered by fear or limitations. These are women who pursue the things they are passionate about despite the challenges and persevere to see their dreams become a reality. Also, they are not deterred by the social expectations from them.”
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline and smoky soul vocals. Also, the song possesses mellow instrumentation scented with a contemporary R&B fragrance.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/layla-kardan-the-suitable-woman/
“‘The Suitable Woman’ is the slogan of my label and celebrates the woman on the go. Also, a woman who fights for her beliefs and proactively chases her dreams to realize her fullest potential.” – Arwa Al Banawi
Layla Kardan is focused on changing the perception of a woman’s role in society and pushing for gender equality. Also, her aim is to educate both Middle Eastern and Western audiences.
Collaborating with production company D Journal, the pair have produced a fashion-forward, edgy video. The audiovisual features some of the region’s biggest fashion influencers such as Rania Fawaz, Zeynab El Helw, Jory Al Maiman, and Tamara Al Gabbani.
“Arwa’s brand is all about being a bold and expressive woman who is not hindered by fear or limitations. These are women who pursue the things they are passionate about despite the challenges and persevere to see their dreams become a reality. Also, they are not deterred by the social expectations from them.”
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline and smoky soul vocals. Also, the song possesses mellow instrumentation scented with a contemporary R&B fragrance.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/layla-kardan-the-suitable-woman/
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2091 KP) rated Buyer, Beware in Books
Jan 14, 2020
Is Samantha in Danger Taking a Dead Buyer’s Job?
Samantha Kidd is excited about another fashion store opening up in her hometown of Ribbon, Pennsylvania. She and some friends attend the opening night party, but the party ends abruptly when Samantha stumbles on the body of a dead woman in the handbag department. The woman was the store’s handbag buyer, and the police quickly rule it a murder. Then Samantha gets another shock – the store’s owner asks Samantha to take over the dead woman’s job and use her position to help figure out what happened. But is Samantha putting herself in danger by taking a dead woman’s job?
I might not normally have picked up this book because of the fashion theme, but I already knew that author Diane Vallere can craft a great cozy mystery. Yes, fashion is certainly an aspect of the book, and even plays into the plot, but it never overwhelmed the story or bored me since the book never loses sight of the fact that it is a mystery first and foremost. And what a mystery! The suspects are all outstanding and do a great job of misleading us. Samantha has to deal with twists and red herrings galore until she finally figures things out. I did feel a few of the details could have been smoothed into the story better, but that’s a minor complaint overall. I enjoyed this book and need to make time to visit with Samantha again soon.
I might not normally have picked up this book because of the fashion theme, but I already knew that author Diane Vallere can craft a great cozy mystery. Yes, fashion is certainly an aspect of the book, and even plays into the plot, but it never overwhelmed the story or bored me since the book never loses sight of the fact that it is a mystery first and foremost. And what a mystery! The suspects are all outstanding and do a great job of misleading us. Samantha has to deal with twists and red herrings galore until she finally figures things out. I did feel a few of the details could have been smoothed into the story better, but that’s a minor complaint overall. I enjoyed this book and need to make time to visit with Samantha again soon.
Cori June (3033 KP) rated Storm Front (The Dresden Files, #1) in Books
Dec 22, 2018
A fun quick read. Sarcastic and a bit witty not afraid to make fun of itself. Set in Chicago and while it is "present day" i.e. 2000s up electronics and magic don't always get along, Harry at times lives like he's in the 1950s and older.
I found it refreshing that a character could have old fashion values but still for the most part, let a person do the things they need to.
I found it refreshing that a character could have old fashion values but still for the most part, let a person do the things they need to.
Sarah Betts (103 KP) rated Hot Fudge Murder in Books
Dec 31, 2019
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this cozy featuring an ice cream inventor!
Kate is invited to scoop at a fashion designers party which would be great but the poor man ends up murdered! (Sadly, not by a hot fudge sundae.)
Kate decides that she needs to solve the case.
It's a fun mystery with interesting characters and potential motives.
.
I really enjoyed this cozy featuring an ice cream inventor!
Kate is invited to scoop at a fashion designers party which would be great but the poor man ends up murdered! (Sadly, not by a hot fudge sundae.)
Kate decides that she needs to solve the case.
It's a fun mystery with interesting characters and potential motives.
.
Dean (6925 KP) rated Birds of Prey (And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) (2020) in Movies
Feb 21, 2020 (Updated Mar 25, 2020)
Margot Robbie (1 more)
Fight Choreography
Splat!
So I wasn't exactly in a rush to see this. I don't know much the comics or the Harley Quinn character. Thankfully yes this is better than suicide squad, but that's not exactly difficult. It's an ok film the first half was good but seemed to lose it's way after this. Finishing in rather predictable fashion.
The fights are good and Margot Robbie raises this just above average overall.
The fights are good and Margot Robbie raises this just above average overall.