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Mayhawke (97 KP) rated 12 Monkeys (1995) in Movies
Feb 9, 2018
I'll have a Monkey on the rocks, with a twist...
The time is the future; The world has been ravaged by a bio-engineered plague,and the powers-that-be have decided it's time to do something about it.
Their decision? Put the half-nelson on a poor, unhappy convict (Willis) and tell him he's going back in time to hunt down the source, and kill the lunatic that released the bug before he can do it, thus changing history. Armed with just the knowledge that he's looking for a group called 'The 12 Monkeys', he is dispatched, only to find himself in an unforseen conflict with the local law and a Section 8.
Great performance from Willis, but it was while watching this film that I realised that Brad Pitt is actually more than a pretty face.
One of the best twists in the end of a tale I have ever seen.
This is definitley one of my desert island films, so I'm not really good at objectivity when discussing it but if you like slighty off-the-wall film entertainment I'd say this is a must.
Their decision? Put the half-nelson on a poor, unhappy convict (Willis) and tell him he's going back in time to hunt down the source, and kill the lunatic that released the bug before he can do it, thus changing history. Armed with just the knowledge that he's looking for a group called 'The 12 Monkeys', he is dispatched, only to find himself in an unforseen conflict with the local law and a Section 8.
Great performance from Willis, but it was while watching this film that I realised that Brad Pitt is actually more than a pretty face.
One of the best twists in the end of a tale I have ever seen.
This is definitley one of my desert island films, so I'm not really good at objectivity when discussing it but if you like slighty off-the-wall film entertainment I'd say this is a must.
Kyera (8 KP) rated Queen Song (Red Queen, #0.1) in Books
Feb 1, 2018
Queen Song is a short novella detailing Coriane's life. It begins prior to her introduction to the Prince and shows a simpler life. Her elder cousin Jessamine wants her to be a proper lady and help restore the power/glory of their failing house. Coriane Jacos just wants to tinker and build things. It was nice to see that similarity to her future son, even though they never really knew one another.
You also get a taste of a second (future) queen in the young Elara, Maven's mother. She is just as pleasant as a young adult as she is in the series, which is to say she's a terror. Elara is manipulative and her power is incredibly strong. <spoiler> We even find out that it was, in fact, Elara that drove Coriane to end her life. Coriane even suspected that Elara was in her mind, but was unable to prove it. She thought she was able to sing well enough to find out if it was true, but Elara was able to resist her. The Queen even got help from someone who could suppress powers, to no avail. Elara drove her mad. </spoiler>
You also get a taste of a second (future) queen in the young Elara, Maven's mother. She is just as pleasant as a young adult as she is in the series, which is to say she's a terror. Elara is manipulative and her power is incredibly strong. <spoiler> We even find out that it was, in fact, Elara that drove Coriane to end her life. Coriane even suspected that Elara was in her mind, but was unable to prove it. She thought she was able to sing well enough to find out if it was true, but Elara was able to resist her. The Queen even got help from someone who could suppress powers, to no avail. Elara drove her mad. </spoiler>
Cynthia Armistead (17 KP) rated This Case Is Gonna Kill Me (Linnet Ellery, #1) in Books
Mar 1, 2018
This book was an unexpected delight. Lawyers? Meh. Even lawyers with paranormal spice.
But Linnet Ellery is no ordinary lawyer, even for a young lawyer in a White Fang law firm. She has no end of backbone and smarts, not to mention luck - or should I say Luck? Because fortune swirls around her like nobody else, making her a nexus of events and a little too conspicuous for her very discreet employers.
That's not to say that she doesn't make her share of mistakes - that wouldn't be any fun, now would it? She survives and learns from them, then helps others avoid the same.
Living in a world of vampires, werewolves, and Alfar (elves) might be intimidating to most humans, especially when those beings (Powers) are essentially in charge. Linnet doesn't let them intimidate her. She uses her contacts and plays to her strengths, winning more and more significant battles every time she goes to bat.
Bornikova sets things up very nicely for a sequel, and I am personally hungry to read more. I strongly suggest this book to anyone who enjoys paranormals, urban fantasy, or simply good, humorous fiction with a dollop of suspense and a strong heroine.
But Linnet Ellery is no ordinary lawyer, even for a young lawyer in a White Fang law firm. She has no end of backbone and smarts, not to mention luck - or should I say Luck? Because fortune swirls around her like nobody else, making her a nexus of events and a little too conspicuous for her very discreet employers.
That's not to say that she doesn't make her share of mistakes - that wouldn't be any fun, now would it? She survives and learns from them, then helps others avoid the same.
Living in a world of vampires, werewolves, and Alfar (elves) might be intimidating to most humans, especially when those beings (Powers) are essentially in charge. Linnet doesn't let them intimidate her. She uses her contacts and plays to her strengths, winning more and more significant battles every time she goes to bat.
Bornikova sets things up very nicely for a sequel, and I am personally hungry to read more. I strongly suggest this book to anyone who enjoys paranormals, urban fantasy, or simply good, humorous fiction with a dollop of suspense and a strong heroine.
Gail (4 KP) rated Trust (Alex Conner Chronicles, #1) in Books
Jun 4, 2018
This book is very different then my normal go to paranormal so I am glad it didn’t leave me disappointed. Alex is a event planner but she takes it to a new level of partying. She grows up with powers she didn’t really understand and a mother who was more high than sober. This book gave me chills at times but I loved it.
You get what you want out of this book. The author leaves so many possibilities open that you just can not guess where it will lead. You get views of her past and you understand how she turn out this way. But it seems nothing is working for her. Her therapist and friend are no help. The scenes are hot but classy.
I enjoyed her highs and lows because even though she had magic her life wasn’t perfect. She was learning and still struggling like any other person. If you don’t believe in a little magic you will after reading this. I love reading books when the author is a word magician. With every moment and emotion you feel what they feel.
You get what you want out of this book. The author leaves so many possibilities open that you just can not guess where it will lead. You get views of her past and you understand how she turn out this way. But it seems nothing is working for her. Her therapist and friend are no help. The scenes are hot but classy.
I enjoyed her highs and lows because even though she had magic her life wasn’t perfect. She was learning and still struggling like any other person. If you don’t believe in a little magic you will after reading this. I love reading books when the author is a word magician. With every moment and emotion you feel what they feel.
Gail (4 KP) rated Truth (Alex Conner Chronicles, #2) in Books
Jun 4, 2018
Life is a tornado for Alex Connor as we continue where we left off in book one. Now she is training hard for a fight that will test her strength and will. This book has everything in it. A weird love triangle and some interesting guys. Alex reunites with her mother and now is looking for her dad.
I have been pulling for Justin since book one hoping that she would pick him. I would’ve never guess the twist she throws at us in this book. Ryan doesn’t do it for me so I’m hoping that he cast some spell on her. Lol!
You get so much from these books that you don’t want to put them down or wait for the next book. I love the mystery and all the magic the author wrote. I also enjoyed how Alex could be sweet or spicy. The different powers and possibilities the author gives us just sucks you in.
I don’t really like love triangles because someone always gets hurt and this book is clearly no different. It’s not that hard to pick one guy. But we wouldn’t be reading if we didn’t enjoy a little drama.
I have been pulling for Justin since book one hoping that she would pick him. I would’ve never guess the twist she throws at us in this book. Ryan doesn’t do it for me so I’m hoping that he cast some spell on her. Lol!
You get so much from these books that you don’t want to put them down or wait for the next book. I love the mystery and all the magic the author wrote. I also enjoyed how Alex could be sweet or spicy. The different powers and possibilities the author gives us just sucks you in.
I don’t really like love triangles because someone always gets hurt and this book is clearly no different. It’s not that hard to pick one guy. But we wouldn’t be reading if we didn’t enjoy a little drama.
ErinSJ (112 KP) rated The Bone Queen (The Books of Pellinor #0.5) in Books
Jun 20, 2018
When I found out The Bone Queen was coming out it was a pleasant surprise. I read the original Pellinor series years ago and have always remembered it as one of my favorite fantasy series. I was originally a bit worried that all these years later this book wouldn't live up to the rest of the series, but I'm happy to report that my fears were unjustified.
The Bone Queen is beautifully written, and something about the writing or perhaps the general world building evokes a feeling very similar to that of The Lord of the Rings, with an emphasis on the ultimate powers of good over evil, even when evil manages to take a terrible toll on the world. Though there is certainly action and plenty of adventure to be had, this book focuses on very human themes of forgiveness and guilt. Cadvan struggles to forgive himself for the irreparable damage one foolish mistake caused, and those around him struggle to do the same.
For those looking for a thoughtful bit of epic fantasy that still manages to have some fun, this is a must read.
The Bone Queen is beautifully written, and something about the writing or perhaps the general world building evokes a feeling very similar to that of The Lord of the Rings, with an emphasis on the ultimate powers of good over evil, even when evil manages to take a terrible toll on the world. Though there is certainly action and plenty of adventure to be had, this book focuses on very human themes of forgiveness and guilt. Cadvan struggles to forgive himself for the irreparable damage one foolish mistake caused, and those around him struggle to do the same.
For those looking for a thoughtful bit of epic fantasy that still manages to have some fun, this is a must read.
Ross (3284 KP) rated The Incredibles 2 (2018) in Movies
Jul 16, 2018
I had characterised the first Incredibles film as a "boys' Disney film", alongside Cars - something for my son to get a little more out of than he does from Moana etc, but still enough for my daughters to enjoy too - plus a decent amount of action and humour for us parents. Interestingly, it is Violet, the teenage daughter of the family, that takes centre stage for a lot of the sequel, her struggle to find a balance between superhero-dom and normal teenage life teetering on the edge.
In terms of storyline, it really is much of a repeat of the original film - this time it is the mother, ElastiGirl, that is back in action while Mr Incredible is left holding the baby. The plot, and the motive of the villain, is at time a little confusing for kids, and also pretty tenuous - there really isn't any need for major twists in kids' films!
The humour mainly comes from the emergence of baby Jack-Jack's powers - a multitude of abilities appearing with little control over them.
A good film, but a little long and with a slightly failed plot.
In terms of storyline, it really is much of a repeat of the original film - this time it is the mother, ElastiGirl, that is back in action while Mr Incredible is left holding the baby. The plot, and the motive of the villain, is at time a little confusing for kids, and also pretty tenuous - there really isn't any need for major twists in kids' films!
The humour mainly comes from the emergence of baby Jack-Jack's powers - a multitude of abilities appearing with little control over them.
A good film, but a little long and with a slightly failed plot.
Merissa (14056 KP) rated Truth in Lies (The Generators #2) in Books
Nov 13, 2018
Truth in Lies (The Generators #2) by Jennifer DiGiovanni
Truth in Lies is the second book in The Generators series, and we reunite with Cara and Alex. Cara is still keeping her powers a secret from her family. Alex is keeping secrets from Cara and Nate. Nate is keeping secrets from Alex. It's a whole big secret-fest! The pressure is ramping up for them though, and the chances of them being 'normal' young adults seems to get further away.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, although I did get frustrated with Cara at times. However, I had to remind myself she is only eighteen, and would I have done any different at that age? This is a high action book, with plenty of angst throughout. The story is fast-paced so make sure you keep up. I will admit to loving where this is going, and I can't wait to see where Jennifer DiGiovanni takes it next. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, although I did get frustrated with Cara at times. However, I had to remind myself she is only eighteen, and would I have done any different at that age? This is a high action book, with plenty of angst throughout. The story is fast-paced so make sure you keep up. I will admit to loving where this is going, and I can't wait to see where Jennifer DiGiovanni takes it next. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated WENDIGO in Books
Dec 5, 2018
AMAZING horror novella that introduces Blood of the Ysir saga.
In this book "Wendigo" is a term used by the indigenous inhabitants for demonic creatures who eat human flesh and are always ravenous. In other folklore the wendigo nature is a curse visited as a punishment on human cannibals when they first taste human flesh.
In this fictional world that we enter with Erik,
the curse is triggered by the same crime, but there are genetic requirements and the cursed can transform into powerful werebeasts. At one time, these creatures were treated as gods and fed by their neighbors, but the native peoples abandoned this practice and the creatures, who had human intelligence, shape shifting powers and massive strength and could not be killed, turned in anger to preying extensively on humans.
This book is well worth the read as a standalone novella if you prefer but if like me it snags from the beginning and you to continue following the journey so remember to check out the Blood of the Ysir saga to continue on the path. Highly anxious for the third in series now!!
In this fictional world that we enter with Erik,
the curse is triggered by the same crime, but there are genetic requirements and the cursed can transform into powerful werebeasts. At one time, these creatures were treated as gods and fed by their neighbors, but the native peoples abandoned this practice and the creatures, who had human intelligence, shape shifting powers and massive strength and could not be killed, turned in anger to preying extensively on humans.
This book is well worth the read as a standalone novella if you prefer but if like me it snags from the beginning and you to continue following the journey so remember to check out the Blood of the Ysir saga to continue on the path. Highly anxious for the third in series now!!
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Red Queen in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Not gonna lie...I was a bit sceptical when I picked up this book. But I was quickly pulled into the world of Reds and Silvers and the Red Guard. I found myself listening to this book every spare minute I had. Intrigue, secrets, unknown powers, fears, lies, family, betrayal, and HOPE bleed onto the pages of this book in a neverending flow.
I still don't know who to trust, although I DO know who is evil...I think...You know, come to think of it...I have no idea...afterall...
“Anyone can betray anyone.”
― Victoria Aveyard, Red Queen
It is ridiculously hard to review a book like this...Only because I don't want to give away spoilers. So I will leave you with this...If you love YA books...and have a fascination with dystopian/sci-fi type books...You should definitely give Red Queen a try. I think you will really enjoy it! Now excuse me while I finish the series....
I borrowed Red Queen on audio from my local library. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I still don't know who to trust, although I DO know who is evil...I think...You know, come to think of it...I have no idea...afterall...
“Anyone can betray anyone.”
― Victoria Aveyard, Red Queen
It is ridiculously hard to review a book like this...Only because I don't want to give away spoilers. So I will leave you with this...If you love YA books...and have a fascination with dystopian/sci-fi type books...You should definitely give Red Queen a try. I think you will really enjoy it! Now excuse me while I finish the series....
I borrowed Red Queen on audio from my local library. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.