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Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Runaway Romance in Books
Feb 27, 2019
It's been sometime since I read a Miralee Ferrell novel. I loved her work when I read her Love Finds You books, but I hadn't read them in a long time. So, when the opportunity arose for me to review her new book, Runaway Romance, I jumped. It sounded intriguing and not like what I am used to from her and I couldn't wait to jump into it. I was very happy that I did!
This book is filled with fun loving characters. I was instantly hooked on Ann and Hunter's characters and they both settled into my heart to stay. I loved the way Ann fell in love with the Amish Inn and their way of living. I feel the same way when I go to Amish country! And Hunter, bless him! I loved his character so much. I really felt for him, watching him be a little cautious when it came to Ann. My momma self came out when his character was introduced.
In Miralee Ferrelly fashion, she throws in a few characters that you will either love, or love to hate. I enjoyed getting to know ALL of the characters within the pages of this new book. Each one brought something different to the tables and really kept me turning the pages long into the night.
This is definitely a 5 star book! I highly recommend it to all who are looking for a book on trusting God, forgiving and learning to accept His will. The characters will take you on a whirlwind ride and leave you wanting more! I am definitely looking forward to more books like this in the future from Ms. Ferrell. Well done!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
This book is filled with fun loving characters. I was instantly hooked on Ann and Hunter's characters and they both settled into my heart to stay. I loved the way Ann fell in love with the Amish Inn and their way of living. I feel the same way when I go to Amish country! And Hunter, bless him! I loved his character so much. I really felt for him, watching him be a little cautious when it came to Ann. My momma self came out when his character was introduced.
In Miralee Ferrelly fashion, she throws in a few characters that you will either love, or love to hate. I enjoyed getting to know ALL of the characters within the pages of this new book. Each one brought something different to the tables and really kept me turning the pages long into the night.
This is definitely a 5 star book! I highly recommend it to all who are looking for a book on trusting God, forgiving and learning to accept His will. The characters will take you on a whirlwind ride and leave you wanting more! I am definitely looking forward to more books like this in the future from Ms. Ferrell. Well done!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Andy K (10823 KP) rated The Searchers (1956) in Movies
Apr 28, 2019
Sprawling, wondrous, beautiful country
It's funny how movies make you interested in rewatching other movies sometimes.
In this case, I recently watched the Back to the Future trilogy again (seen way too many times). After watching Back to the Future 3, I listened to some of the audio commentary and the filmmakers mention many times how much fun they had making a western this time around and how much they were in awe of the countryside locations where they had filmed mentioning also this is where John Ford had filmed classic scenes from a lot of his more famous western epic films, like The Searchers. That was enough for me to give it another go.
The story is a relatively simple one of a man and his companion going on an epic journey to try and find and save his niece who had been abducted by the Comanche Indians in the Old West. Several of his relatives had also been killed and he was searching for the chief called "Scar" whom he had learned was leading this band of outlaws. His journey for vengeance would take 5+ years and would take him across the sprawling western countryside during both summer and winter.
The main character in the film is the magnificent landscapes and sprawling sunrises and sunsets featured throughout the film. The cinematography is breathtaking and the use of color is just majestic considering this movie is from the mid 50s.
I have to admit to not watching a lot of John Wayne movies (yet), but he gives a memorable performance not quite as heroey as in some of his other classics. Jeffrey Hunter (Captain Christopher Pike) is also very good in the film.
A true masterpiece.
In this case, I recently watched the Back to the Future trilogy again (seen way too many times). After watching Back to the Future 3, I listened to some of the audio commentary and the filmmakers mention many times how much fun they had making a western this time around and how much they were in awe of the countryside locations where they had filmed mentioning also this is where John Ford had filmed classic scenes from a lot of his more famous western epic films, like The Searchers. That was enough for me to give it another go.
The story is a relatively simple one of a man and his companion going on an epic journey to try and find and save his niece who had been abducted by the Comanche Indians in the Old West. Several of his relatives had also been killed and he was searching for the chief called "Scar" whom he had learned was leading this band of outlaws. His journey for vengeance would take 5+ years and would take him across the sprawling western countryside during both summer and winter.
The main character in the film is the magnificent landscapes and sprawling sunrises and sunsets featured throughout the film. The cinematography is breathtaking and the use of color is just majestic considering this movie is from the mid 50s.
I have to admit to not watching a lot of John Wayne movies (yet), but he gives a memorable performance not quite as heroey as in some of his other classics. Jeffrey Hunter (Captain Christopher Pike) is also very good in the film.
A true masterpiece.
Merissa (12897 KP) rated The Devil is in the Details (Broken Halos #1) in Books
May 6, 2019
The Devil is in the Details (Broken Halos #1) by Maya Daniels
The Devil is in the Details is the first book in the Broken Halos series, and we meet Eric and Helena (Hel). At first glance, they appear to be on opposing sides, but not everything is as it seems. Eric is a Demon, whereas Hel is a Hunter. When Eric is approached by one of Helena's bosses, with a kill order and a special deal for the Demons, he wonders what is going on. None of that matters once he sees Hel though, and he will do ANYTHING to protect her.
This was a fast-paced, fun-filled, frolic of a book. I loved Hel's sassy attitude, and I thought her grief over her best friend was incredibly written. She admits she just wants to wake up, and owns her temper tantrums, apologising as necessary. Eric is the bad boy of the Demon world, and I loved him. There were two revelations about him, which shocked Hel both times. The first one I can understand, but the second? Surely if he is the first, the second is part of the same? (Trying so hard not to do spoilers here!!!)
This is an extremely well-written book that gives enough world-building for you to get to grips with their world, whilst still leaving more to come. This does end on a cliff-hanger, so fair warning. A thoroughly enjoyable first installment, and I can't wait for the second. 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!
This was a fast-paced, fun-filled, frolic of a book. I loved Hel's sassy attitude, and I thought her grief over her best friend was incredibly written. She admits she just wants to wake up, and owns her temper tantrums, apologising as necessary. Eric is the bad boy of the Demon world, and I loved him. There were two revelations about him, which shocked Hel both times. The first one I can understand, but the second? Surely if he is the first, the second is part of the same? (Trying so hard not to do spoilers here!!!)
This is an extremely well-written book that gives enough world-building for you to get to grips with their world, whilst still leaving more to come. This does end on a cliff-hanger, so fair warning. A thoroughly enjoyable first installment, and I can't wait for the second. 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!
Kyera (8 KP) rated The Last Namsara (Iskari, #1) in Books
Feb 1, 2018
The Last Namsara is Kristen Ciccarelli's debut novel and I am in love. The world building was brilliantly done and laid a strong foundation for her story to grow and develop.
Asha is a dragon hunter and a feared Iksari who is strong and dedicated to her role in the kingdom. Despite the fact that her actions as a child called the dragons who burned her city, she fights every day to redeem herself from her past mistakes and make her father, the King, proud. It was nice to see the main character learns to value herself, even though she has grown up shamed and feared by the people. She overcomes her prejudices and the damage instilled upon her over the course of the novel.
Her transformative journey begins when a slave, Torwin is introduced to her life. He treats her like a normal person, just as she learns to treat him as one. He opens her eyes to the truth of the world and thaws her damaged heart, leading her to learn so much about the people in her kingdom and a better way to live.
There was also a well-written antagonist who was so controlling and cruel that you couldn't help but hate him. It was a nice juxtaposition to Torwin's character and helped push the plot along. For me, the romance was a secondary plot point and sometimes only slowed down the pacing. It wasn't the most important element of the story.
The world building, mythology and the dragons are what shone for me. I cannot wait to see more of this world. I listened to this via audiobook and the narrator, Pearl Mackie did a fantastic job. I loved the authenticity she brought to Asha's character and would highly recommend this audiobook.
Asha is a dragon hunter and a feared Iksari who is strong and dedicated to her role in the kingdom. Despite the fact that her actions as a child called the dragons who burned her city, she fights every day to redeem herself from her past mistakes and make her father, the King, proud. It was nice to see the main character learns to value herself, even though she has grown up shamed and feared by the people. She overcomes her prejudices and the damage instilled upon her over the course of the novel.
Her transformative journey begins when a slave, Torwin is introduced to her life. He treats her like a normal person, just as she learns to treat him as one. He opens her eyes to the truth of the world and thaws her damaged heart, leading her to learn so much about the people in her kingdom and a better way to live.
There was also a well-written antagonist who was so controlling and cruel that you couldn't help but hate him. It was a nice juxtaposition to Torwin's character and helped push the plot along. For me, the romance was a secondary plot point and sometimes only slowed down the pacing. It wasn't the most important element of the story.
The world building, mythology and the dragons are what shone for me. I cannot wait to see more of this world. I listened to this via audiobook and the narrator, Pearl Mackie did a fantastic job. I loved the authenticity she brought to Asha's character and would highly recommend this audiobook.
Kristin (149 KP) rated Rock 'n' Roll Promises (Rock N Roll Paraphantasy, #1) in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an unedited ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this story from the beginning. It's a new spin on vampire lore, and there are other supernatural beings, as well. We find out about Anna's past throughout the book, as she goes into a trance to "relive" part of her life from the night she was turned, to determine how Jaxson knows her (after having a pretty steamy interaction with him). Her best friend Paige and Paige's boyfriend Ozzie, a hunter, come to protect her while in her trance, and the twists just keep coming throughout the story.
I also greatly enjoyed the use of music throughout the book. I knew pretty much all of the songs mentioned, and they were each relevant and used perfectly to describe certain situations, especially the ending. And speaking of the ending, it's definitely a cliffhanger, so I can't wait to see what happens next! An entertaining read, and one I would recommend to those who like the supernatural and supernatural romances.
My only issue (other than wishing it was longer and/or I had the second book already) was with some of the dialogue. I thought it was stilted at times, as characters would switch back and forth between using and not using contractions within the same sentence or paragraph, which didn't seem natural to me. Also, some of the inner dialogue within Anna's or Paige's head felt a little too descriptive. I know it was used to explain things and further the story, but it struck a small chord with me, as I just didn't think it was natural. (However, I was reading an unedited ARC, so this may be changed in the final version.)
4 stars, and I really want to read the next one =)
I really liked this story from the beginning. It's a new spin on vampire lore, and there are other supernatural beings, as well. We find out about Anna's past throughout the book, as she goes into a trance to "relive" part of her life from the night she was turned, to determine how Jaxson knows her (after having a pretty steamy interaction with him). Her best friend Paige and Paige's boyfriend Ozzie, a hunter, come to protect her while in her trance, and the twists just keep coming throughout the story.
I also greatly enjoyed the use of music throughout the book. I knew pretty much all of the songs mentioned, and they were each relevant and used perfectly to describe certain situations, especially the ending. And speaking of the ending, it's definitely a cliffhanger, so I can't wait to see what happens next! An entertaining read, and one I would recommend to those who like the supernatural and supernatural romances.
My only issue (other than wishing it was longer and/or I had the second book already) was with some of the dialogue. I thought it was stilted at times, as characters would switch back and forth between using and not using contractions within the same sentence or paragraph, which didn't seem natural to me. Also, some of the inner dialogue within Anna's or Paige's head felt a little too descriptive. I know it was used to explain things and further the story, but it struck a small chord with me, as I just didn't think it was natural. (However, I was reading an unedited ARC, so this may be changed in the final version.)
4 stars, and I really want to read the next one =)
Merissa (12897 KP) rated Claimed by her Cougar (Cougar Creek Mates #1) in Books
Oct 16, 2018
Claimed by her Cougar (Cougar Creek Mates #1) by Felicity Heaton
Claimed by her Cougar is the first book in the Cougar Creek Mates series, set in the same world as the Eternal Mates series. By that, I mean it is set in the contemporary world, but with the same 'bad guys' being mentioned - Archangel.
Rath has kept his clan safe from Archangel ever since their attack so many years previously. He takes care of any Hunters who show up on his land, and spends his time avoiding most people, preferring to spend his time alone. He looks after the cabins of various clan members who also live elsewhere. His solitude is broken when Ivy shows up on his land, wanting to photograph the black bears. Once she convinces him she is not a hunter, they spend a couple of days together, during which she gets under Rath's skin in more ways that he possibly imagined.
I found this story to be excellently written, as I would expect from Felicity Heaton. How she manages to tie in a previous organisation, within the contemporary world, whilst introducing a whole new set of characters, I think is superb! There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. The supporting cast of characters were all intriguing, leaving me wanting more in this series, just so I can get their stories. Luckily for me, Storm comes next, but I also want Ember's story! Yes, I know, I'm greedy!
A great start to the series, and definitely recommended by me. Looking forward to continuing this series.
* 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!
Rath has kept his clan safe from Archangel ever since their attack so many years previously. He takes care of any Hunters who show up on his land, and spends his time avoiding most people, preferring to spend his time alone. He looks after the cabins of various clan members who also live elsewhere. His solitude is broken when Ivy shows up on his land, wanting to photograph the black bears. Once she convinces him she is not a hunter, they spend a couple of days together, during which she gets under Rath's skin in more ways that he possibly imagined.
I found this story to be excellently written, as I would expect from Felicity Heaton. How she manages to tie in a previous organisation, within the contemporary world, whilst introducing a whole new set of characters, I think is superb! There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. The supporting cast of characters were all intriguing, leaving me wanting more in this series, just so I can get their stories. Luckily for me, Storm comes next, but I also want Ember's story! Yes, I know, I'm greedy!
A great start to the series, and definitely recommended by me. Looking forward to continuing this series.
* 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!
Merissa (12897 KP) rated Horns of Power: Manifestations of the Horned God in Books
Dec 17, 2018
What an amazing book!
This, as you may already be aware, is a collection of different people's thoughts, meditations, dreams and meetings with the Horned God. As you read through each story you will travel the world, from Crete to Egypt to the wilds of Wales to London. Each story is as individual as the author and I loved every one of them, although I admit that I read the ones about Egypt and Crete with a mostly detached but isn't this informative kind of air.
The Horned God that I love, the one that has fascinated me all of my life is Cernunnos, the Lord of the Forest and the Wild Animals. For me, one of the best stories in the book was A Quest For Horns by Stephen Blake, and not only because he mentions Robin of Sherwood which still remains a favourite of mine!
Unfortunately, as people begin looking at Paganism to see if it is right for them, they usually tend to favour the Goddess only as they are usually changing from a patriarchal religion. This may work for a while but you need balance, and the Horned God is part of the equation!
If you have any interest in Herne the Hunter, Cernunnos, Pan or Puck then this is the book for you.
<blockquote> Above me and around me he roared and I, like the mouse, curled up, safe, secure and loved by this storm of rage; the emotional and physical pain that had engulfed me fled before his terrible gaze and I fell asleep. The rage of the Horned God is mighty indeed, but the love and blessings he bestows are greater still.</blockquote>
This, as you may already be aware, is a collection of different people's thoughts, meditations, dreams and meetings with the Horned God. As you read through each story you will travel the world, from Crete to Egypt to the wilds of Wales to London. Each story is as individual as the author and I loved every one of them, although I admit that I read the ones about Egypt and Crete with a mostly detached but isn't this informative kind of air.
The Horned God that I love, the one that has fascinated me all of my life is Cernunnos, the Lord of the Forest and the Wild Animals. For me, one of the best stories in the book was A Quest For Horns by Stephen Blake, and not only because he mentions Robin of Sherwood which still remains a favourite of mine!
Unfortunately, as people begin looking at Paganism to see if it is right for them, they usually tend to favour the Goddess only as they are usually changing from a patriarchal religion. This may work for a while but you need balance, and the Horned God is part of the equation!
If you have any interest in Herne the Hunter, Cernunnos, Pan or Puck then this is the book for you.
<blockquote> Above me and around me he roared and I, like the mouse, curled up, safe, secure and loved by this storm of rage; the emotional and physical pain that had engulfed me fled before his terrible gaze and I fell asleep. The rage of the Horned God is mighty indeed, but the love and blessings he bestows are greater still.</blockquote>
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