Search
Paul Bettany recommended Brief Encounter (1945) in Movies (curated)
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated Warriors with Holy Hands in Books
Nov 4, 2019
Warriors With Holy Hands is the story of a young woman who finds herself lost in time and whose life over a period of three years is spiraling downward. Ruth Falk is stricken with an inexplicable illness and then orphaned. With only a distant relative in her life now, Ruth faces a life of debilitating pain and infirmity. She determines to look to the past for answers she believes her bloodline may reveal.
Searching through diaries and records, Ruth discovers blood relatives and others who lived far away over the course of a century. We follow their lives across three generations culminating in the revelation of indisputable connections that are createdwords and actions with lasting results.
Ruth learns that a curse spoken by one ancestor may have had a devastating domino effect, one whose beginning also engaged her prayer-warrior grandmother in a pitched spiritual battle to break. A challenged believer herself, Ruth grows in the faith of her predecessors who faced ominous situations.
The rich symbolism of Judaism provides a backdrop for the saga with traditions and meaning sprinkled throughout the story.
When she faces increasing paralysis, Ruth and a birth friend in the faith journey to the Southern Highlands of Tennessee where it all began. Here in the span of seven daysover ten monthsall that has unraveled in recent years comes together. Life as she knows it will never be the same.
God reveals himself to Ruth and others in remarkable ways along a tortuous path that comes full circle.
Warriors is a mystery that is finally, stunningly, revealed as serendipitous fruit from the branches of a family tree. It is a story of encouragement and life that empowers those who seek God and believe.
My Thoughts: This is a story about Ruth, a woman who is injured while deployed. As she recovers from her injuries, including PTSD and other physical injuries, she learns about her past through journals that her aunt gave to her. The author has done a skillful job of intertwining the history from the journals to the present time to Ruth. The author Peter Toeg, presents us with a good picture of how we can be affected by our past relatives whether it's good or bad.
I love history and journals. We cal learn so much through our past. This is a story about healing, both physically and of course, spiritually. The author has done a brilliant job with this storyline and I believe that others will enjoy this book also.
Searching through diaries and records, Ruth discovers blood relatives and others who lived far away over the course of a century. We follow their lives across three generations culminating in the revelation of indisputable connections that are createdwords and actions with lasting results.
Ruth learns that a curse spoken by one ancestor may have had a devastating domino effect, one whose beginning also engaged her prayer-warrior grandmother in a pitched spiritual battle to break. A challenged believer herself, Ruth grows in the faith of her predecessors who faced ominous situations.
The rich symbolism of Judaism provides a backdrop for the saga with traditions and meaning sprinkled throughout the story.
When she faces increasing paralysis, Ruth and a birth friend in the faith journey to the Southern Highlands of Tennessee where it all began. Here in the span of seven daysover ten monthsall that has unraveled in recent years comes together. Life as she knows it will never be the same.
God reveals himself to Ruth and others in remarkable ways along a tortuous path that comes full circle.
Warriors is a mystery that is finally, stunningly, revealed as serendipitous fruit from the branches of a family tree. It is a story of encouragement and life that empowers those who seek God and believe.
My Thoughts: This is a story about Ruth, a woman who is injured while deployed. As she recovers from her injuries, including PTSD and other physical injuries, she learns about her past through journals that her aunt gave to her. The author has done a skillful job of intertwining the history from the journals to the present time to Ruth. The author Peter Toeg, presents us with a good picture of how we can be affected by our past relatives whether it's good or bad.
I love history and journals. We cal learn so much through our past. This is a story about healing, both physically and of course, spiritually. The author has done a brilliant job with this storyline and I believe that others will enjoy this book also.
Merissa (12058 KP) rated Blazed (Breakers Hockey #8) in Books
Jan 22, 2024
BLAZED is Walker and Dommie's story. They were together until he pushed her away because of 'reasons', hurting her in the process. But now he's back and wants her again.
God save me from over-protective men who think they have the right to protect 'their little woman' from anything that isn't straightforward or reasonable. God knows we'd never be able to deal, right?! You know, I was almost sorry when 'reasons' turned up at the door as I really wanted Dommie out of there, so Walker could see what a ar$e he was being!
It was good to be back with the team again, but I really hope that we hear more from Dommie's professor. A side character that I wanted more from! Looking forward to Jackson and Claire's story next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 22, 2024
God save me from over-protective men who think they have the right to protect 'their little woman' from anything that isn't straightforward or reasonable. God knows we'd never be able to deal, right?! You know, I was almost sorry when 'reasons' turned up at the door as I really wanted Dommie out of there, so Walker could see what a ar$e he was being!
It was good to be back with the team again, but I really hope that we hear more from Dommie's professor. A side character that I wanted more from! Looking forward to Jackson and Claire's story next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 22, 2024
LoganCrews (2861 KP) rated Kingpin (1996) in Movies
Sep 20, 2020
Familiar Farrelly fare to a fault (I swear to God that repetition was unintentional) - it's got every single hallmark of their films all rolled into one: extremely juvenile peepee/caca/sex jokes, USA heartland road trip, lovable doofus + straight man lead pairing plus the underdeveloped woman who puts them at odds with each other, runtime that's about 15 or so minutes too heavy, unpointed misogyny, and heaping helpings of sentimentality. For better or worse, this is the quintessential Farrelly film. On the whole though, it's okay. Comedy is hit or miss here but this can be damn funny, specifically Bill Murray - who easily runs away with this entire film (the film's biggest flaw? that there isn't more of him). Randy Quaid is a riot too, though this is oddly a better sports movie than it is an outright comedy. All these (still fair) gross-out comedy trappings are infused into your model sports film formula but it's oddly really engaging as that, and the comedy is just a bonus. I like how this movie portrays skill, and it's also one of the Farrellys' best looking ones, too. All of this is still rather simple but it's fun.
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Playing the Part (A Class of Their Own, #3) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
When an aggressive admirer pursues Lucetta Plum, she must flee for her own safety. You will find danger, mystery and love in Playing the Part. Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
About the Book
In 1884, Lucetta Plum is a well known actress on the stage in New York City. Despite her many attempts to discourage
the ever persistent Silas Ruff, he is determined to make Lucetta his. Being the strong-willed, independent woman that she is, Lucetta wishes for no man to be infatuated with her. With a new drive to possess the beautifully unique Miss Plum, Silas arrives back in New York unexpectedly. Lucetta must escape the city with none other than Mrs. Abigail Hart, the scheming matchmaker who took Harriet, Millie and Lucetta into her care. Determined to see Lucetta settled with her own grandson, Mr. Bram Haverstein, Mrs. Hart suggests they flee to his castle of Ravenwood. Surprisingly, upon their arrival Lucetta finds that Mr. Haverstein holds a particular actress in high regard. But is Lucetta really the person he believes her to be? With an unconventional staff and secretive habits, Lucetta is unsure what to make of Bram. When there appears to be some strange goings on at Ravenwood, Lucetta is convinced that the castle and it's owner are of a peculiar nature. Will their pasts and their secrets be enough to keep them apart? Or will she allow God to heal her pain, allowing her to trust again?
My Thoughts
Jen's books are always an absolute delight to read! I have never laughed so much while reading a single book (except maybe Jen's other books). Playing the Part is not only full of witty dialogue, it is also full of truth. It is so easy for us to think that we know someone. To judge by appearances or by profession. But do we see the heart? Do we really know the person who is just playing a part that they think is required of them? God created each and every one of us individually and uniquely. We should never hide our true self, but proudly play the part that God has given us! I found every chapter full of surprises and mystery. A continuous page turner and a thrilling adventure. All the time, rooting for Lucetta and that she would find the freedom to truly be the person God created her to be. Although this book can stand alone, I strongly suggest starting at the beginning of the series with After a Fashion, followed by the second book In Good Company I highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who loves a witty adventure!
I received a free copy of Playing the Part from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review for Celebrate Lit blog tour.
About the Book
In 1884, Lucetta Plum is a well known actress on the stage in New York City. Despite her many attempts to discourage
the ever persistent Silas Ruff, he is determined to make Lucetta his. Being the strong-willed, independent woman that she is, Lucetta wishes for no man to be infatuated with her. With a new drive to possess the beautifully unique Miss Plum, Silas arrives back in New York unexpectedly. Lucetta must escape the city with none other than Mrs. Abigail Hart, the scheming matchmaker who took Harriet, Millie and Lucetta into her care. Determined to see Lucetta settled with her own grandson, Mr. Bram Haverstein, Mrs. Hart suggests they flee to his castle of Ravenwood. Surprisingly, upon their arrival Lucetta finds that Mr. Haverstein holds a particular actress in high regard. But is Lucetta really the person he believes her to be? With an unconventional staff and secretive habits, Lucetta is unsure what to make of Bram. When there appears to be some strange goings on at Ravenwood, Lucetta is convinced that the castle and it's owner are of a peculiar nature. Will their pasts and their secrets be enough to keep them apart? Or will she allow God to heal her pain, allowing her to trust again?
My Thoughts
Jen's books are always an absolute delight to read! I have never laughed so much while reading a single book (except maybe Jen's other books). Playing the Part is not only full of witty dialogue, it is also full of truth. It is so easy for us to think that we know someone. To judge by appearances or by profession. But do we see the heart? Do we really know the person who is just playing a part that they think is required of them? God created each and every one of us individually and uniquely. We should never hide our true self, but proudly play the part that God has given us! I found every chapter full of surprises and mystery. A continuous page turner and a thrilling adventure. All the time, rooting for Lucetta and that she would find the freedom to truly be the person God created her to be. Although this book can stand alone, I strongly suggest starting at the beginning of the series with After a Fashion, followed by the second book In Good Company I highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who loves a witty adventure!
I received a free copy of Playing the Part from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review for Celebrate Lit blog tour.
ClareR (5726 KP) rated The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue in Books
May 29, 2023
Addie doesn’t want to marry and become just a wife and mother, waiting for old age and death. She wants to really live! So, on her wedding day she runs to the forest and asks the spirits there for help, just as her friend, and elderly woman, does. Addie has been warned not to make deals with the dark, but her plea for help coincides with dusk, and the wrong god/ spirit comes to her help. The deal is struck, and Addie finds herself making a deal that means for the cost of her soul, she will live for as long as she wants. It’s only afterwards that she learns that one of the conditions is that no one will remember her.
Until the day she meets Henry in present day New York.
Honestly, I don’t know why she had such a problem with the god she struck the deal with. He’s clearly rather dishy - dark, brooding, very powerful…
I’ve seen this described as Faustian, and I suppose it is. She makes a deal with a devil to live for longer. Except her deal has no time limit, or at least only the limit that she’ll give it.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. The Henry character was interesting as well, especially after his reveal.
This author has written a lot of YA apparently, and this is her first adult novel. It’s definitely worth keeping my eyes peeled for whatever she comes up with next!
Until the day she meets Henry in present day New York.
Honestly, I don’t know why she had such a problem with the god she struck the deal with. He’s clearly rather dishy - dark, brooding, very powerful…
I’ve seen this described as Faustian, and I suppose it is. She makes a deal with a devil to live for longer. Except her deal has no time limit, or at least only the limit that she’ll give it.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. The Henry character was interesting as well, especially after his reveal.
This author has written a lot of YA apparently, and this is her first adult novel. It’s definitely worth keeping my eyes peeled for whatever she comes up with next!
Synopsis: Learn to live, love, and lead courageously--as you boldly choose to trust God.
Whether you're facing struggles with singleness, the mounting challenges of marriage and motherhood, health issues, a financial crisis--God has equipped you to walk in freedom and confidence as you abide in Him, strengthened by His power and provision. Through the stories of eleven brave women of the Bible who made faith-filled choices that positioned them for success, LaTan Roland Murphy exhorts, encourages, and empowers women of all ages. With warmth and wit, she illustrates how you, like Deborah, Jael, Mary, and others, can look beyond your circumstances and lay hold of the courage needed to
· draw closer to Jesus when facing illness, isolation, or rejection;
· live and give generously, even amid financial hardship; and
· step out into faithful, fearless living as a wife, mother, friend or coworker--no matter the season of life or what lies ahead.
Thought-provoking study questions and an interactive journaling section will help take you even deeper in your quest for a more courageous, confident life, either on your own or with a group.
My Thoughts: What are you afraid of? Is it stepping out and doing what God has called you to do? Is it facing an illness, a death? Or maybe some other type of hardship or even a new venture in life. LaTan Roland Murphy has written an excellent book, using women of the Bible to help illustrate how we can overcome our fear and insecurities. In this study the reader will take a look into the lives of Deborah, The woman with the issue of blood, The widow with two coins, Jael, Abigail Bathsheba, just to name a couple.
This is a working book, the author takes you on a journey into each of these women's lives and has you search and see how they found the courage they needed to live their lives and accomplish what God intended for them to do.
I love the way she has written this book, You read a chapter, then the author has you read scripture and apply what you learned by answering questions at the end of each chapter. She has a style of writing that is easy to read and understand. You can follow along and immerse yourself in the book.
This can be a study you do alone, or in a group setting. I recommend this book for all Christian women to read, young or old, it will certainly draw you closer to God, and give you the courage to carry on.
LaTan Roland Murphy is an award-winning author and speaker with writing featured in HOAwomen magazine. She is the author of Becoming a Woman of Interior Elegance and coauthor of God's Provision in Tough Times. She is also the founder of The Colors of His Love Women's Conference. She and her husband, Joe, have three adult children and two delightful grandchildren. They live in Raleigh, North Carolina. Please visit her website at www.latanmurphy.com.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Whether you're facing struggles with singleness, the mounting challenges of marriage and motherhood, health issues, a financial crisis--God has equipped you to walk in freedom and confidence as you abide in Him, strengthened by His power and provision. Through the stories of eleven brave women of the Bible who made faith-filled choices that positioned them for success, LaTan Roland Murphy exhorts, encourages, and empowers women of all ages. With warmth and wit, she illustrates how you, like Deborah, Jael, Mary, and others, can look beyond your circumstances and lay hold of the courage needed to
· draw closer to Jesus when facing illness, isolation, or rejection;
· live and give generously, even amid financial hardship; and
· step out into faithful, fearless living as a wife, mother, friend or coworker--no matter the season of life or what lies ahead.
Thought-provoking study questions and an interactive journaling section will help take you even deeper in your quest for a more courageous, confident life, either on your own or with a group.
My Thoughts: What are you afraid of? Is it stepping out and doing what God has called you to do? Is it facing an illness, a death? Or maybe some other type of hardship or even a new venture in life. LaTan Roland Murphy has written an excellent book, using women of the Bible to help illustrate how we can overcome our fear and insecurities. In this study the reader will take a look into the lives of Deborah, The woman with the issue of blood, The widow with two coins, Jael, Abigail Bathsheba, just to name a couple.
This is a working book, the author takes you on a journey into each of these women's lives and has you search and see how they found the courage they needed to live their lives and accomplish what God intended for them to do.
I love the way she has written this book, You read a chapter, then the author has you read scripture and apply what you learned by answering questions at the end of each chapter. She has a style of writing that is easy to read and understand. You can follow along and immerse yourself in the book.
This can be a study you do alone, or in a group setting. I recommend this book for all Christian women to read, young or old, it will certainly draw you closer to God, and give you the courage to carry on.
LaTan Roland Murphy is an award-winning author and speaker with writing featured in HOAwomen magazine. She is the author of Becoming a Woman of Interior Elegance and coauthor of God's Provision in Tough Times. She is also the founder of The Colors of His Love Women's Conference. She and her husband, Joe, have three adult children and two delightful grandchildren. They live in Raleigh, North Carolina. Please visit her website at www.latanmurphy.com.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
ClareR (5726 KP) rated Triflers Need Not Apply in Books
Jun 27, 2022
Triflers Need Not Apply is based on the true story of Belle Gunness, a Norwegian who emigrated to America. And that’s what makes it so unnerving: her normality. Outwardly, Belle is a nice, god-fearing woman. But if you are married to her, that’s a different story.
I enjoyed how the two different sides of Belle were portrayed, and how her sister wanted to always think the best of her. But she knew there was a darker side. Belle’s children seemed oblivious to her proclivities, but would they have been? In fact, it does seem that at least one had a pretty good idea of her mothers capabilities.
Part of me likes to think that Belle did what she did to keep herself and her children financially safe. Men were a means to an end in a time where women had no rights. Belle really was a woman scorned - and boy, did she hold a grudge! There are some truly gruesome scenes described in an offhand way, so much so that I just got used to them: “Oh, she’s chopping them into bits! Well, that’ll make disposal easier, I suppose!” I mean, I’m not in the market for this type of thing, but it all seemed quite reasonable. That’s what made it truly horrific!
It’s a great story. I might bear some of Belle’s methods in mind…😉
I enjoyed how the two different sides of Belle were portrayed, and how her sister wanted to always think the best of her. But she knew there was a darker side. Belle’s children seemed oblivious to her proclivities, but would they have been? In fact, it does seem that at least one had a pretty good idea of her mothers capabilities.
Part of me likes to think that Belle did what she did to keep herself and her children financially safe. Men were a means to an end in a time where women had no rights. Belle really was a woman scorned - and boy, did she hold a grudge! There are some truly gruesome scenes described in an offhand way, so much so that I just got used to them: “Oh, she’s chopping them into bits! Well, that’ll make disposal easier, I suppose!” I mean, I’m not in the market for this type of thing, but it all seemed quite reasonable. That’s what made it truly horrific!
It’s a great story. I might bear some of Belle’s methods in mind…😉
Lindsay (1717 KP) rated Starting From Scratch in Books
Aug 30, 2018
Eva Lapp is a young girl or woman. She takes a job that her cousin Olivia recommends. Her brother and his family show up at her parents home two days early. Her sister-in-law decides to send her on her way.
When she gets to Yodel’s Nursery she is in surprise for she thinks she goes to be working with plants. There a surprise when she finds out she is to manage the small cafe.
She seems to be getting suitor left and right, though she does not feel them. She thinks they are either too young or she does not know for sure.
Jake returns and Eva has a feeling for him. Are they true or is she just think she got feelings. Things get a little bumpy when someone breaks into the cafe or at least looks that way. Stephen seems to have a feeling for Eva but does Eva have a feeling for Stephen?
There is an adventure at every turn once you start reading. Some folks keep blaming Jake for the burned down fire? Did Jake do it? Eva also is having trouble with whether to stay Amish or to go English? Kate Lloyd writes a completing story and shows how Eva Lapp is snuggling with her problems. Can she overcome them? Will Jake and Eva turn towards God for help?
When she gets to Yodel’s Nursery she is in surprise for she thinks she goes to be working with plants. There a surprise when she finds out she is to manage the small cafe.
She seems to be getting suitor left and right, though she does not feel them. She thinks they are either too young or she does not know for sure.
Jake returns and Eva has a feeling for him. Are they true or is she just think she got feelings. Things get a little bumpy when someone breaks into the cafe or at least looks that way. Stephen seems to have a feeling for Eva but does Eva have a feeling for Stephen?
There is an adventure at every turn once you start reading. Some folks keep blaming Jake for the burned down fire? Did Jake do it? Eva also is having trouble with whether to stay Amish or to go English? Kate Lloyd writes a completing story and shows how Eva Lapp is snuggling with her problems. Can she overcome them? Will Jake and Eva turn towards God for help?
The Darkness That Comes Before
10.0
Rate It
Book
A score of centuries has passed since the First Apocalypse and the thoughts of men have turned,...