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LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated Morbius (2022) in Movies
Apr 2, 2022
For better or for worse, Morbius is finally out and, well, it ain't anything to write home about, but it's not quite as piss poor as I'd been hearing.
I've always liked the Morbius character, a solid C-list villain of Blade and Spider-Man, but did he ever really need his own movie? Well evidently not. It's essentially a run-of-the-mill comic book adaption that feels like it belongs in the mid 2000s with Elektra and Daredevil. It's kind of like a less fun Venom. Jared Leto isn't too shabby in the title roll when he's onscreen by himself, but there's just no chemistry between anyone otherwise, rendering a lot of the runtime quite boring. The action scenes are the kind of predictable grey CGI orgies that we've come to expect by now, and it's difficult to make out what's even happening on some occasions. The CG itself is hit and miss. Morbius actually looks pretty decent for the most part, but Matt Smith's character looks like a reject from I Am Legend. The movie suffers from a lack of an R rating, with a lot of weird looking bloodless scenes where gore was clearly meant to be present. To top things off, it boasts a mid credits scene that at best, doesn't even try to make sense, and at worst, manages to cheapen the events of Marvel movies that have come before.
Honestly though, I didn't outright hate Morbius. There are certainly worse comic book adaptions out there, but I won't be in any rush to watch again. Sony insisted on pushing ahead with it, and ultimately could have done so much more.
I've always liked the Morbius character, a solid C-list villain of Blade and Spider-Man, but did he ever really need his own movie? Well evidently not. It's essentially a run-of-the-mill comic book adaption that feels like it belongs in the mid 2000s with Elektra and Daredevil. It's kind of like a less fun Venom. Jared Leto isn't too shabby in the title roll when he's onscreen by himself, but there's just no chemistry between anyone otherwise, rendering a lot of the runtime quite boring. The action scenes are the kind of predictable grey CGI orgies that we've come to expect by now, and it's difficult to make out what's even happening on some occasions. The CG itself is hit and miss. Morbius actually looks pretty decent for the most part, but Matt Smith's character looks like a reject from I Am Legend. The movie suffers from a lack of an R rating, with a lot of weird looking bloodless scenes where gore was clearly meant to be present. To top things off, it boasts a mid credits scene that at best, doesn't even try to make sense, and at worst, manages to cheapen the events of Marvel movies that have come before.
Honestly though, I didn't outright hate Morbius. There are certainly worse comic book adaptions out there, but I won't be in any rush to watch again. Sony insisted on pushing ahead with it, and ultimately could have done so much more.

Debbiereadsbook (1487 KP) rated Caught Off Guard by Beth Laycock in Books
Jun 20, 2022
I needed Tristan and I don't get him.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I think, this book fell in my queue right at the point I needed it to, and I really REALLY liked! Not quite enough to love it, but I will explain why.
Only Lane gets a voice. Yes, yes YES I know I say it often enough, but I am big enough and ugly enough to admit when I might be wrong about this, but I NEEDED Tristan, and I don't get him.
I needed to hear what he thought of Lane, right at the beginning. I needed to know what he was feeling when he kisses Lane that first time. I needed to know what was going through his head when he blanks Lane and I NEEDED, I really NEEDED to know what he was feeling when things are finally sorted with Lane's brother.
I can't word this bit right, without giving anything away, so if this doesn't make sense, I'm sorry!
Things with Lane's brother don't end how I thought they would and (please don't hate me!) I actually loved that they didn't. It was a twist I did not see coming, and I was reading at work, and I must have made a noise cos a customer asked me if I was ok. So, well played there, Ms Laycock, very well played.
Like I said, only Lane gets a say, and that's the only reason I can't stretch to 5 stars!
4 really REALLY good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I think, this book fell in my queue right at the point I needed it to, and I really REALLY liked! Not quite enough to love it, but I will explain why.
Only Lane gets a voice. Yes, yes YES I know I say it often enough, but I am big enough and ugly enough to admit when I might be wrong about this, but I NEEDED Tristan, and I don't get him.
I needed to hear what he thought of Lane, right at the beginning. I needed to know what he was feeling when he kisses Lane that first time. I needed to know what was going through his head when he blanks Lane and I NEEDED, I really NEEDED to know what he was feeling when things are finally sorted with Lane's brother.
I can't word this bit right, without giving anything away, so if this doesn't make sense, I'm sorry!
Things with Lane's brother don't end how I thought they would and (please don't hate me!) I actually loved that they didn't. It was a twist I did not see coming, and I was reading at work, and I must have made a noise cos a customer asked me if I was ok. So, well played there, Ms Laycock, very well played.
Like I said, only Lane gets a say, and that's the only reason I can't stretch to 5 stars!
4 really REALLY good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere

Merissa (13169 KP) rated Alliance (Torsere #3) in Books
Aug 16, 2023
Alliance is the third and final book in the Torsere series, and you get a fitting finale with a tense and twisted plot.
Ryneq and Nykin have made it back home to Torsere but their troubles are far from over. The witch they are dealing with now seems even worse than the one they just killed. No matter what they plan, she is three steps ahead. Of course, the reason why comes out and wasn't really a surprise but, still, who it was just added an extra layer of heartache to the story.
I will admit, this one had me in tears. It's darker than the others, with almost no hope of a happy ending, which, when it does happen, is full of non-stop action that will take your breath away. This book is not without loss, and it was so well-written! How the characters reacted was just superb! Yes, I know that sounds strange but read it for yourself and you'll see.
With excellent world-building, characters to love and hate, plus some steamy scenes, this trilogy has been outstanding. I have loved every moment and am sad to see it come to an end. This is one of those books you wish you could un-read, just so you have the opportunity to read it again with fresh eyes! Absolutely recommended by me!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 18, 2020
Ryneq and Nykin have made it back home to Torsere but their troubles are far from over. The witch they are dealing with now seems even worse than the one they just killed. No matter what they plan, she is three steps ahead. Of course, the reason why comes out and wasn't really a surprise but, still, who it was just added an extra layer of heartache to the story.
I will admit, this one had me in tears. It's darker than the others, with almost no hope of a happy ending, which, when it does happen, is full of non-stop action that will take your breath away. This book is not without loss, and it was so well-written! How the characters reacted was just superb! Yes, I know that sounds strange but read it for yourself and you'll see.
With excellent world-building, characters to love and hate, plus some steamy scenes, this trilogy has been outstanding. I have loved every moment and am sad to see it come to an end. This is one of those books you wish you could un-read, just so you have the opportunity to read it again with fresh eyes! Absolutely recommended by me!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 18, 2020

Rebecca Billcliff (2409 KP) rated The Last Airbender (2010) in Movies
Jun 24, 2022
The way the pronounce Aang! (5 more)
Acting
Script
The bending!
Casting
Zuko's "scar"
WTF???
No. No, this is not a good film in ANY way!
Just put a pin in the fact that this fill caused fans of the original series to die inside, this was a shit film!
The acting is so wooden, the script makes little sense, the pacing is so off and the one thing that should have been awesome, even if they went way off with the sorce materieal, was the bending. Which SUCKED! So hard! It was so underwhelming. Dude, did you even watch the series!?!?!
So, let's look at some of its other issues:
Aang. How do you pronounce it? We, here is a f***ing clue- WATCH THE SERIES! They say it hundreds of times!!!!
Zuko, one of the best written characters in an animated series with his signature scar that is so central to his journey as a character, reduced to a bit of sunburn!!!!!
How did you mess up Appa!?!?!?! He is a huge fluffy flying byson! He could have saved this film, but he was relegated to basically a background prop!
The bending. What the actual F**K was that!? Lots of dancing, then sometimes some elements move. If you have seen the series, there is no way this did not piss you off. If you have not, please go and watch at least 3 episodes, then tell me I am wrong about how crap this was.
You insulted Iroh, the best character ever that we all need as an uncle!
Just no. So much no. I hate you now.
Just put a pin in the fact that this fill caused fans of the original series to die inside, this was a shit film!
The acting is so wooden, the script makes little sense, the pacing is so off and the one thing that should have been awesome, even if they went way off with the sorce materieal, was the bending. Which SUCKED! So hard! It was so underwhelming. Dude, did you even watch the series!?!?!
So, let's look at some of its other issues:
Aang. How do you pronounce it? We, here is a f***ing clue- WATCH THE SERIES! They say it hundreds of times!!!!
Zuko, one of the best written characters in an animated series with his signature scar that is so central to his journey as a character, reduced to a bit of sunburn!!!!!
How did you mess up Appa!?!?!?! He is a huge fluffy flying byson! He could have saved this film, but he was relegated to basically a background prop!
The bending. What the actual F**K was that!? Lots of dancing, then sometimes some elements move. If you have seen the series, there is no way this did not piss you off. If you have not, please go and watch at least 3 episodes, then tell me I am wrong about how crap this was.
You insulted Iroh, the best character ever that we all need as an uncle!
Just no. So much no. I hate you now.

Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2395 KP) rated A Novel Disguise in Books
May 18, 2023
How Long Can Tiffany Disguise the Danger She’s In?
When her half-brother dies unexpectedly, Tiffany Woodall quietly buries him and then assumes his identity. There is nothing else for her to do in 1780’s England, especially if she wants to stay in the cottage the two of them lived in. But she quickly finds that being two people is much more challenging than she expected, especially when she starts falling in love with the local book seller and has to dodge the marriage proposal of the local rector. But it’s taking over her half-brother’s job of the local duke’s librarian that puts her in the most danger when one of the servants dies. Might it tie to her brother’s death?
Obviously, there is a lot going on here, and it does mean the mystery takes a little time to become an important part of the story. But I didn’t care. I was quickly caught up in Tiffany’s life and couldn’t wait to find out what would happen to her next. And make no mistake about it, the mystery here is strong. I loved how things were all pulled together for the climax. The characters are also wonderful, with plenty of them to love or love to hate. I always felt like I was transported back in time as I was reading. My only complaint was that we learned a little more than I felt necessary about the after effects of the poison, but that was a minor issue. I’m already looking forward to the sequel. If you are looking for a fun historical mystery, don’t miss this one.
Obviously, there is a lot going on here, and it does mean the mystery takes a little time to become an important part of the story. But I didn’t care. I was quickly caught up in Tiffany’s life and couldn’t wait to find out what would happen to her next. And make no mistake about it, the mystery here is strong. I loved how things were all pulled together for the climax. The characters are also wonderful, with plenty of them to love or love to hate. I always felt like I was transported back in time as I was reading. My only complaint was that we learned a little more than I felt necessary about the after effects of the poison, but that was a minor issue. I’m already looking forward to the sequel. If you are looking for a fun historical mystery, don’t miss this one.

Merissa (13169 KP) rated Uprising (Rebellion #3) in Books
Apr 7, 2022 (Updated Jun 26, 2023)
UPRISING is the third book in the Rebellion series, and I think this is the last. The story is wrapped up nicely, giving me exactly the ending I was looking for.
This book focuses on Michael and Isaac, the two enigmatic Alphas from packs seemingly on opposite sides of the war, but looks can be deceiving as we find out. Isaac and Michael were as close as two wolves could be without being bonded. When they decided what they were going to do, it placed them miles apart - both figuratively and literally. Now events have brought them back together, but can they pick up where they left off?
Uprising starts where Defiance finished and the whole host of characters return, including those you love to hate. Some will shock you though, and some you will end up feeling sympathy for. Don't you just love it when an author does that to you?
Just as full of action as the previous two, you get the bigger picture in this as groups start working together. If there was one character I wish I'd heard more from, it would be Baker, but it wasn't his book!
A brilliant end to a fantastic series and absolutely recommended by me, so long as you read it as a series and don't miss out on any of the good bits.
** 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 7, 2022
This book focuses on Michael and Isaac, the two enigmatic Alphas from packs seemingly on opposite sides of the war, but looks can be deceiving as we find out. Isaac and Michael were as close as two wolves could be without being bonded. When they decided what they were going to do, it placed them miles apart - both figuratively and literally. Now events have brought them back together, but can they pick up where they left off?
Uprising starts where Defiance finished and the whole host of characters return, including those you love to hate. Some will shock you though, and some you will end up feeling sympathy for. Don't you just love it when an author does that to you?
Just as full of action as the previous two, you get the bigger picture in this as groups start working together. If there was one character I wish I'd heard more from, it would be Baker, but it wasn't his book!
A brilliant end to a fantastic series and absolutely recommended by me, so long as you read it as a series and don't miss out on any of the good bits.
** 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 7, 2022

ClareR (5950 KP) rated Body of Stars in Books
Jan 16, 2024
Body of Stars is an enjoyable YA novel set in the near future. This is a world where the markings on a woman’s body predict the future for not only themselves, but for their families as well.
Instead of this phenomenon giving women autonomy over their own lives, it seems that it’s the same old story. Their bodies are a commodity, mapped out by a government organisation, checked over by their fathers when their markings change during puberty. They are warned not to show themselves off or be by themselves, lest men can’t control themselves as they’re driven wild with lust. So far, so stereotypical.
Celeste Morton is excited by the prospect of this transition, and her brother Miles is desperate to practice his interpretation skills on his sister. But when Celeste transitions, a terrible fate is revealed. And in a desperate bid to keep this a secret, Celeste experiences the worst thing that can happen to a changeling.
I have to admit to being very frustrated whilst reading this. There’s nothing feminist about this story - there is a good argument for why feminism is necessary though. Misogyny is rife in the world of this book! To be honest, the story could have run in exactly the same direction without the need for freckles, moles and other markings. It was depressing that even in an alternative near future, women would be experiencing the same restrictions and abuse that so many live through today.
This was a novel that I loved to hate - the frustration was immense! Do I recommend it? Well yes, but be prepared for the deep breathing, calming exercises that you’ll need!
Instead of this phenomenon giving women autonomy over their own lives, it seems that it’s the same old story. Their bodies are a commodity, mapped out by a government organisation, checked over by their fathers when their markings change during puberty. They are warned not to show themselves off or be by themselves, lest men can’t control themselves as they’re driven wild with lust. So far, so stereotypical.
Celeste Morton is excited by the prospect of this transition, and her brother Miles is desperate to practice his interpretation skills on his sister. But when Celeste transitions, a terrible fate is revealed. And in a desperate bid to keep this a secret, Celeste experiences the worst thing that can happen to a changeling.
I have to admit to being very frustrated whilst reading this. There’s nothing feminist about this story - there is a good argument for why feminism is necessary though. Misogyny is rife in the world of this book! To be honest, the story could have run in exactly the same direction without the need for freckles, moles and other markings. It was depressing that even in an alternative near future, women would be experiencing the same restrictions and abuse that so many live through today.
This was a novel that I loved to hate - the frustration was immense! Do I recommend it? Well yes, but be prepared for the deep breathing, calming exercises that you’ll need!

Heart of a Wolf (Viking Wolves #1)
Book
How to get over a breakup: 1: Go to Iceland 2: Get sent back in time 3: Get abducted by a hot,...
Vikings Shifters Paranormal Time Travel MM Romance

Morgan Sheppard (948 KP) created a post
Feb 19, 2024

Debbiereadsbook (1487 KP) rated Abandon Station (Dyson Bridge #1) in Books
May 6, 2024
it finishes on a cliffhanger I did not see coming at me, and I was not prepared!!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
So, here's the thing, right?
I am mighty, MIGHTY annoyed at this book. Why? Because I thought it was a complete story, and it's not: it finishes on a cliffhanger I did not see coming at me, and I hate that! I wasn't prepared, I really wasn't, when it ended, and I am not happy.
It was a great read, though! I was fully engrossed in Merida and her people.
In the now Earth, it was a bit technical,but I kinda read those bits and glanced over the technical jargon used. In the NEW Earth, things were more understandable and I could even follow the politics! There's a lot going on that she isn't privy to, and her people are in danger of being stranded.
But peeps? That cliffhanger means I gotta wait to find out if Merida can get home, if she can find all her people from across the globe, and if her ex gets whatever he deserves!
A quick glance, and I cannot see when I might get my hands on book 2, either. So now, I'm doubly annoyed, with a review to write. Why do I put myself through this, you ask? Let me tell you.
To find books and authors like this: out of my comfort zone and new to me. I loved this book, bar that ending and I'm very pleased, as well as annoyed, that I got to read it.
4 most EXCELLENT stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
So, here's the thing, right?
I am mighty, MIGHTY annoyed at this book. Why? Because I thought it was a complete story, and it's not: it finishes on a cliffhanger I did not see coming at me, and I hate that! I wasn't prepared, I really wasn't, when it ended, and I am not happy.
It was a great read, though! I was fully engrossed in Merida and her people.
In the now Earth, it was a bit technical,but I kinda read those bits and glanced over the technical jargon used. In the NEW Earth, things were more understandable and I could even follow the politics! There's a lot going on that she isn't privy to, and her people are in danger of being stranded.
But peeps? That cliffhanger means I gotta wait to find out if Merida can get home, if she can find all her people from across the globe, and if her ex gets whatever he deserves!
A quick glance, and I cannot see when I might get my hands on book 2, either. So now, I'm doubly annoyed, with a review to write. Why do I put myself through this, you ask? Let me tell you.
To find books and authors like this: out of my comfort zone and new to me. I loved this book, bar that ending and I'm very pleased, as well as annoyed, that I got to read it.
4 most EXCELLENT stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere