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ClareR (5681 KP) rated The Beauty of the Wolf in Books
Feb 21, 2019
A refreshingly different retelling
I rather liked this retelling of Beauty and the Beast. It's set in Elizabethan England, and there are some twists to the original story, which were both surprising and refreshing.
I really liked the language used: it was poetic with a good smattering of the more 'earthy' Elizabethan English (it's what we English are good at I think, isn't it!). I also liked the mix of fairytale, folklore and history. It just felt as though the author had done a bit of historical research with regards to life in London and as part of a theatrical group.
It was a good story that illustrated that what's on the inside is what really counts far more than appearances and that, I suppose, there is someone out there for everyone. Someone who will love you for yourself, regardless of what you look like - in fact, probably precisely because of what you look like.*
*This book actually caused me to check in my cynicism at the first page. And that's no bad thing in literature!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
I really liked the language used: it was poetic with a good smattering of the more 'earthy' Elizabethan English (it's what we English are good at I think, isn't it!). I also liked the mix of fairytale, folklore and history. It just felt as though the author had done a bit of historical research with regards to life in London and as part of a theatrical group.
It was a good story that illustrated that what's on the inside is what really counts far more than appearances and that, I suppose, there is someone out there for everyone. Someone who will love you for yourself, regardless of what you look like - in fact, probably precisely because of what you look like.*
*This book actually caused me to check in my cynicism at the first page. And that's no bad thing in literature!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
Lindsay (1717 KP) rated Secrets of Cavendon in Books
Apr 8, 2019
If you enjoy History or Historical fiction. Secret of Cavendon may be one of the books to pick up. It is book #4 in the series, I think you read it as a standalone if you want to. The plot bring out quite a few romances. One may be dangerous.
We see who the woman of Cavendon are and work together. We seem to learn more about history of the Swanns and Ingram's life. Well as we know we have Alicia, Cecily and Miles and their children. Get action and adventures. We also meet Cecily friends and or business partners.
There change coming and will they be able to stick together though it all? There a murder, heartbreak, drama. Bradford does it all in one book. There seems to be several story lines going on though out he book. They all seem to be teeming from Cavendon. What are secrets of Cavendon that seem to be everyone is worried about. It seems that is in record books.
If you are into British history or want learn a little bit about Britain and London this book is set in that area. You got Earls and Countess in this book.
We see who the woman of Cavendon are and work together. We seem to learn more about history of the Swanns and Ingram's life. Well as we know we have Alicia, Cecily and Miles and their children. Get action and adventures. We also meet Cecily friends and or business partners.
There change coming and will they be able to stick together though it all? There a murder, heartbreak, drama. Bradford does it all in one book. There seems to be several story lines going on though out he book. They all seem to be teeming from Cavendon. What are secrets of Cavendon that seem to be everyone is worried about. It seems that is in record books.
If you are into British history or want learn a little bit about Britain and London this book is set in that area. You got Earls and Countess in this book.
Awix (3310 KP) rated The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999) in Movies
May 3, 2019
Sprawling, episodic historical drama which brought the Hollywood career of Luc Besson to a firm stop. 15th century France is invaded by the English, but leading the resistance is a teenage girl who believes she can hear the voice of God. She may be able to defeat the invaders, but can she survive the snake pit of court and church politics?
So: Joan of Arc, an iconic, legendary, complex figure, is brought to the screen by Milla Jovovich, whose performance mostly consists of her rolling her eyes a lot and squeaking. No matter how distinguished the rest of the cast, or how well staged the various massed battle scenes, this is a problem which any film would struggle to overcome. Some other odd creative choices don't help much (Dustin Hoffman turns up as the embodiment of Joan's self-doubt). Still, there is a genuine sense of the medieval grotesque, and Besson is very much in his comfort zone during the battles. Certainly a brave and imaginative take on history, but the end result is too close to Monty Python and the Holy Grail for comfort.
So: Joan of Arc, an iconic, legendary, complex figure, is brought to the screen by Milla Jovovich, whose performance mostly consists of her rolling her eyes a lot and squeaking. No matter how distinguished the rest of the cast, or how well staged the various massed battle scenes, this is a problem which any film would struggle to overcome. Some other odd creative choices don't help much (Dustin Hoffman turns up as the embodiment of Joan's self-doubt). Still, there is a genuine sense of the medieval grotesque, and Besson is very much in his comfort zone during the battles. Certainly a brave and imaginative take on history, but the end result is too close to Monty Python and the Holy Grail for comfort.
Erika (17788 KP) rated The Huntress in Books
May 4, 2019
To start out with, I wish I could give this a perfect 10, but one of the main characters, Nina, was completely insufferable and easily, her chapters could have been cut out.
Alright, so, I don't consider books post WWI to be historical fiction, and I normally steer clear of WWII/aftermath fiction because bookstores and goodreads are inundated with hundreds of novels. But, I decided to pick up this book anyway.
Essentially, it's a Nazi hunt. There are three viewpoints from three different characters. As I mentioned, Nina was insufferable. Most of the reviews I read talked about their love of this character and the origin of the Night Witches (AKA female, Russian pilots). Ian was one of the other main characters, a former war correspondent who's a Nazi hunter, trying to find 'The Huntress', who murdered his brother. Then, there's Jordan, an American teenager whose father marries a mysterious German woman with a daughter.
I won't spoil the plot, but basically, you can work out the entire plot within the first few chapters. What kept me reading was the writing style, and every other character but Nina.
Alright, so, I don't consider books post WWI to be historical fiction, and I normally steer clear of WWII/aftermath fiction because bookstores and goodreads are inundated with hundreds of novels. But, I decided to pick up this book anyway.
Essentially, it's a Nazi hunt. There are three viewpoints from three different characters. As I mentioned, Nina was insufferable. Most of the reviews I read talked about their love of this character and the origin of the Night Witches (AKA female, Russian pilots). Ian was one of the other main characters, a former war correspondent who's a Nazi hunter, trying to find 'The Huntress', who murdered his brother. Then, there's Jordan, an American teenager whose father marries a mysterious German woman with a daughter.
I won't spoil the plot, but basically, you can work out the entire plot within the first few chapters. What kept me reading was the writing style, and every other character but Nina.
Awix (3310 KP) rated Spartacus (1960) in Movies
May 19, 2019 (Updated May 19, 2019)
Kubrick famously disowned the historical epic he took on as work-for-hire, but almost any other director would and should have been proud of the result. Based on a true story (albeit very loosely), Spartacus the slave (Douglas) is sold to a gladiator trainer, leads his fellow inmates in a revolt, and resolves to free every slave in Italy; ruthless autocrat Crassus (Olivier) scents the chance to exploit the crisis for his own political ends.
Slightly disjointed in its structure: the opening act in the gladiator school barely puts a foot wrong (the fight between Douglas and Woody Strode is exceptional), but then the story splits between the story of the growing slave army, which is hokey and sentimental, and that of the political games in Rome, which features a bunch of great actors giving terrific performances. Usual epic spectacle, but a very atypical downbeat ending: the film works very hard to give Spartacus a moral victory, but it's hard not to see this as a conclusion as bleak as that of any of the films that Kubrick actually admitted to. Stirring entertainment anyway; they don't make 'em like this any more.
Slightly disjointed in its structure: the opening act in the gladiator school barely puts a foot wrong (the fight between Douglas and Woody Strode is exceptional), but then the story splits between the story of the growing slave army, which is hokey and sentimental, and that of the political games in Rome, which features a bunch of great actors giving terrific performances. Usual epic spectacle, but a very atypical downbeat ending: the film works very hard to give Spartacus a moral victory, but it's hard not to see this as a conclusion as bleak as that of any of the films that Kubrick actually admitted to. Stirring entertainment anyway; they don't make 'em like this any more.
Debbie (0 KP) rated The Stolen Marriage in Books
Jan 30, 2018
Book Review: The Stolen Marriage
You know a book is good when you contemplate taking the day off just so you can continue reading. Yup. The Stolen Marriage is the real deal! Chamberlain is an exceptional storyteller, who brings the people and town of Hickory, North Carolina to life. The Stolen Marriage is historical fiction at its best and is full of unforgettable characters, secrets, deceptions, racism, and humanity. It is clear Chamberlain did her research. The story deals with the polio epidemic of the 40's and the endless taboos, which was a part of the time (especially in the South). I have no idea why it took me this long to read Chamberlain's work (shame on me)! Nonetheless, I am absolutely a fan and thankfully there are plenty of books to choose from (I already have Necessary Lies on my to be read pile). The polio epidemic was real and sadly individuals suffered and many died, but I am still in awe of how the people of Hickory came together to build a miracle hospital in 54 hours! I would love to see this book adapted into a movie. :-)
ArecRain (8 KP) rated The Gladiator's Temptation (Champions of Rome #2) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I had no idea what I was getting into starting this novel. I have read a handful of Ancient Rome romances, and they all seem to be lacking. There seems to be one element missing, whether it be historical accuracy, a tangible storyline, or realistic romance. This novel had everything and more. The author really knew her history, using jargon that gave the story a more authentic feel.
What really got me was the story line. Most of the romance I have read begin with the couple either meeting, or coming together again after a separation, then their progression to falling in love. This story differed in that, you get to read their story, but itÂ’s more about them fighting the fates to be together instead of learning about each other. It was a nice change of pace but every challenge they faced broke my heart. I feel that the ending made up for all the torment the author put me through, however.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an emotional read to go with their steamy scenes and historically correct jargon.
I had no idea what I was getting into starting this novel. I have read a handful of Ancient Rome romances, and they all seem to be lacking. There seems to be one element missing, whether it be historical accuracy, a tangible storyline, or realistic romance. This novel had everything and more. The author really knew her history, using jargon that gave the story a more authentic feel.
What really got me was the story line. Most of the romance I have read begin with the couple either meeting, or coming together again after a separation, then their progression to falling in love. This story differed in that, you get to read their story, but itÂ’s more about them fighting the fates to be together instead of learning about each other. It was a nice change of pace but every challenge they faced broke my heart. I feel that the ending made up for all the torment the author put me through, however.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an emotional read to go with their steamy scenes and historically correct jargon.
Awix (3310 KP) rated Jabberwocky (1977) in Movies
Feb 10, 2018 (Updated Feb 10, 2018)
Little bit Slithy, little bit Frabjous
Oddball comedy-drama that sets the tone for much of Terry Gilliam's career by being visually ravishing but a bit all-over-the-place story-wise. Gilliam's background at the time was in TV comedy, which may explain why so many well-known TV comics turn up in the film - apart from Michael Palin, there's Warren Clarke, Harry H Corbett, John le Mesurier, and so on.
The thing is that this isn't actually very funny - there are the seeds of some good jokes here, but the fact the movie has been filmed and edited in the style of an art-house historical drama kills most of them dead. Still, the medieval period has seldom been brought to the screen with such an authentic sense of filth, squalour, and misery, and the monster suit is pretty good. That said, if you're not into absurd comedy, Dragonslayer (1981) tells a very similar story in a more accessible style.
(And I have to say I'm astounded a film so focused on gore and bodily functions has only got a PG certificate. Caveat emptor.)
The thing is that this isn't actually very funny - there are the seeds of some good jokes here, but the fact the movie has been filmed and edited in the style of an art-house historical drama kills most of them dead. Still, the medieval period has seldom been brought to the screen with such an authentic sense of filth, squalour, and misery, and the monster suit is pretty good. That said, if you're not into absurd comedy, Dragonslayer (1981) tells a very similar story in a more accessible style.
(And I have to say I'm astounded a film so focused on gore and bodily functions has only got a PG certificate. Caveat emptor.)
Heather (1 KP) rated The Man in the High Castle - Season 2 in TV
Jan 20, 2018
Great what if historical tv show
Contains spoilers, click to show
Again NOT for children. If you're sensitive to violence, etc then proceed with caution. Though I encourage everyone to at least watch a few episodes as I find the plot twists and story line out ways the gore. If there was more of it, I'd be turned off too much. But thankfully it's not every episode. I am still finishing season 2 but so far it's been very interesting! A small spoiler at the bottom.
Especially the plot twist of an alternate time period and universe where certain people aren't dead and stuff. Curious to see how both intersect and how the trade minister jumps to these alternate realities. Is he dreaming? Or literally time traveling? I guess we will find out eventually.
Especially the plot twist of an alternate time period and universe where certain people aren't dead and stuff. Curious to see how both intersect and how the trade minister jumps to these alternate realities. Is he dreaming? Or literally time traveling? I guess we will find out eventually.
Awix (3310 KP) rated The Greatest Showman (2017) in Movies
Feb 7, 2018 (Updated Feb 7, 2018)
Cheese with a side order of sugar
I suppose Hugh Jackman has to do something now he's retired from being Wolverine, and as his skill-set basically consists of eviscerating people with his implanted claws and being able to sing and dance a bit, it's not surprising that his first big post-rodent movie is a musical.
Despite being (theoretically) a historical bio-pic, The Greatest Showman is very much of our time in that it has a powerful message about diversity and inclusivity. That there is anything odd about a film about diversity and inclusivity a) being fronted by two straight white dudes and b) concerning a conman who made a huge fortune by running a freak show, does not appear to have occurred to the film-makers.
The plot is ridiculous sugary cheese, but what keep the film (I'm tempted to say annoyingly) watchable are the songs and choreography, which are really, really good and deserve to be in a much better-written movie. Pretty much the definition of an undemanding guilty pleasure, although I have to note that this is one of those movies that everyone seems to hate apart from the mass audience.
Despite being (theoretically) a historical bio-pic, The Greatest Showman is very much of our time in that it has a powerful message about diversity and inclusivity. That there is anything odd about a film about diversity and inclusivity a) being fronted by two straight white dudes and b) concerning a conman who made a huge fortune by running a freak show, does not appear to have occurred to the film-makers.
The plot is ridiculous sugary cheese, but what keep the film (I'm tempted to say annoyingly) watchable are the songs and choreography, which are really, really good and deserve to be in a much better-written movie. Pretty much the definition of an undemanding guilty pleasure, although I have to note that this is one of those movies that everyone seems to hate apart from the mass audience.