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The Westing Game
The Westing Game
Ellen Raskin | 2004 | Fiction & Poetry, Mystery, Young Adult (YA)
10
8.1 (7 Ratings)
Book Rating
The Westing Game enthralled me from the very first page and I had a hard time putting the book down from that point on. Full of atmosphere, Ms. Raskin wrote a smart, clever, and intriguing story that had my mind striving to figure out the mystery within. A short book (my copy was 182 pages), the author nevertheless managed to capture the characters, the settings, and everything really, with a skillful ease. Written for children, I think I'd be bereft in mentioning that it is much more mature than a typical "kid's book" and I imagine many adults would enjoy this if they're into well-executed mysteries. I appreciated the "epilogue," of sorts, although felt a few things were too pat, but overall it was a near perfect story. Though I never quite unraveled the whole puzzle, the journey alone was worth the enjoyment I got out of this book.
4.5 stars
  
MA
Much Ado About You (Essex Sisters, #1)
8
8.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
Much Ado About You was a lovely historical romance. Eloisa James' writing has an almost lyrical lilt to it that is fresh and delightful. The story was nicely told and paced, and felt more true-to-life than others I've read in the same genre. Tess was a wonderful and likable heroine who was smart, witty and confident. I look forward to future installments and can't wait for Imogen to grow up and mature. All along the book reminded me a bit of Little Women, even though I've never read it and only seen the film version with Winona Ryder, and in the back of the book Ms. James acknowledges that she was inspired by Louisa May Alcott. My only quibble would be that Lucius could have been more fleshed out and the end seemed a bit abrupt. Other than that, I really enjoyed this quick and easy foray into Eloisa James' charming and witty world of the Essex sisters.
  
One Minute There
One Minute There
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This book is about a young woman. She does some strange things that makes her to do things that are not right. Her stepfather or father goes to look for his missing daughter. Detective Bennett will not give up on his daughter Melissa.

Melissa wants to protect her daughter Abby. Though for some reason Melissa has gone missing and after hearing her name called and knocking at the door. Her family is weary of what has happened to her sister in law and brother. Though she calls a friend and tell him nothing and ask for help.

Melissa thinks she is safe after running. Something is wrong and no one can find her. She claim someone is after her and has to flee once again. What happens next is just another page turner. I would advise who reads this. This is best for those that need to be mature enough to read for it got some violence and some nastier words like the word (B**ch).
  
Bring Me Back
Bring Me Back
B.A. Paris | 2018 | Thriller
8
7.9 (14 Ratings)
Book Rating
Unnerving with lots of twists
B. A. Paris returns once again with a deeply troubling psychological thriller following a couple and a woman, who disappeared 12 years ago.

Finn and his girlfriend Layla are in France before she mysteriously vanishes, leaving him to answer police questions over her disappearance. Fast forward 12 years, and Finn has settled down, about to marry Layla's older, much more mature sister, but suddenly bizarre events begin to occur, and they wonder - has she returned?

The entire book is unnerving, moving between several narratives and voices, first establishing Finn's version of the past and the present. And then soon after, another voice emerges, and you're left to question whether it really is Layla.

While you do get an inkling with 30 minutes left of the book about what could be possible - it is written so that the final reveal is still harrowing and shocking. Another gripping thriller from Paris.
  
Casino (1995)
Casino (1995)
1995 | Drama
In many ways, I prefer this film to Goodfellas. It has a slower burn, but feels more mature and grounded, somehow. The acting generally from all the regulars is top of the game stuff; especially Sharon Stone, who surprised many by just how good she could be, and is a rare mention in this genre for a female stealing the show! The lush visuals afforded by the glamour of the casino itself dazzles the eye. The suits are there, the attitudes are there. Much more than a lot of “ganster” films, however, this one focuses on relationships at its core. The glitz and crime are a context for looking at the people underneath and how they fail one another. It demonstrates how you can have it all in life and still despair. Criticised for lacking focus and a rock solid script, it can’t be denied there are faults, but it is still one hell of a ride!