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Concept of adults disappearing (3 more)
Well written with a great plot and interesting world building and action packed scenes
Likeable main characters
Secondary characters are realistic and well fleshed out
Highly enjoyable, hooks you at the very start
The storytelling is straightforward and Grant's imagination is so fertile. The writing in the book was good and I liked the fact that there were so many characters to read about. Each one was fully fleshed out. There is a lot of violence in this book, the author does not gloss over any gory details. There are also some downright evil characters with no redeeming qualities whatsoever, the line between good and evil was well defined. The characters were either good or evil. In fact, there were only one or two characters who struggled with their identity, whether or not they identified themselves as good or evil. Those characters really stood out and made for a quite interesting read. There are also many twists and turns in the plot that you won’t be able to put this book down. The characters are well developed, and are relatable. There is action, suspense, romance, and fantasy all rolled into one. Gone is a spectacular beginning to what I can only hope will be a thrilling series.
Dana (24 KP) rated The Screaming Staircase: Lockwood & Co. #1 in Books
Sep 8, 2017
Amazing junior mystery
For a Junior fiction novel, this was dang scary! It was also an incredible read. It's thoughtful, scary, and really held my interest (which is hard these days). I immediately picked up the next one to read.
As far as supernatural mysteries go, I didn't have high hopes. It sounded run-of-the-mill and it almost lost me in the beginning because there are multiple parts to the story. They wrapped up a case but it's all intricately tied together in a way even I (who is very good at guessing what's going to happen) didn't see coming. It kept me guessing all the way until the last sentence.
I really got attached to two of the characters, and the third was slowly growing on me. They're relatable, even though they're around 10 years younger than me, and very well written. Stroud also did a fantastic job of not revealing too much more than what we need to know. It can be frustrating for others, but it was the perfect balance for me.
Overall, I am extremely impressed and pleased with this book. It actually scared me. I look forward to starting the next one!
As far as supernatural mysteries go, I didn't have high hopes. It sounded run-of-the-mill and it almost lost me in the beginning because there are multiple parts to the story. They wrapped up a case but it's all intricately tied together in a way even I (who is very good at guessing what's going to happen) didn't see coming. It kept me guessing all the way until the last sentence.
I really got attached to two of the characters, and the third was slowly growing on me. They're relatable, even though they're around 10 years younger than me, and very well written. Stroud also did a fantastic job of not revealing too much more than what we need to know. It can be frustrating for others, but it was the perfect balance for me.
Overall, I am extremely impressed and pleased with this book. It actually scared me. I look forward to starting the next one!
Elli H Burton (1288 KP) rated Easy A (2010) in Movies
Jun 15, 2019
Promiscuous
Contains spoilers, click to show
So don't get me wrong I do enjoy this film, however it's something that I'll watch if it's on rather than seeking it out.
The story is okay, nothing particularly special especially theres so many films out there that have the whole 'rumour running away with you' plot lines. The plot progresses well but doesn't really have anything in it to want to keep watching, you're just coasting along with it as it were.
As a big Emma Stone fan, I'm gutted to say this doesn't do it for her unfortunately. Not saying her acting is bad, for the acting in the film as a whole is basic, no passion there. Emma is fab in films I've seen her in and this is no exception but with her talent she deserves a part with a bit more meat to it.
The good points is that it has it's funny moments, the story is alright to follow and can be relatable.
If you're having a chick flick'athon then this should be in there somewhere, I'd recommend a watch but it's not one I'd say go out and buy now.
The story is okay, nothing particularly special especially theres so many films out there that have the whole 'rumour running away with you' plot lines. The plot progresses well but doesn't really have anything in it to want to keep watching, you're just coasting along with it as it were.
As a big Emma Stone fan, I'm gutted to say this doesn't do it for her unfortunately. Not saying her acting is bad, for the acting in the film as a whole is basic, no passion there. Emma is fab in films I've seen her in and this is no exception but with her talent she deserves a part with a bit more meat to it.
The good points is that it has it's funny moments, the story is alright to follow and can be relatable.
If you're having a chick flick'athon then this should be in there somewhere, I'd recommend a watch but it's not one I'd say go out and buy now.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated The Exact Location of Home in Books
Jun 18, 2018
The Exact Location of Home by Kate Messner is a story that will pull at the readers heart. In the story Zig and his friends spend a great deal of time together going to garage sales, skipping rocks, and just being together. When Zig gets a gps, they begin geocaching. But Zig hides a secret from his friends that has changed his entire world. As Zig grows, he finds support from an unexpected ally and gives support to a young boy, both facing similar circumstances as Zig.
Messner has given us a compassionate and necessary middle grade story about the reality of homelessness for many children today. This story has a unique premise with the geocaching theme and I love that while the main character is in 8th grade he will be relatable for students both much younger and much older than he is. I would love to get this book into the hands of all teachers and administrators who struggle to understand how difficult school can be for children without a stable home life, and who make well-intended but thoughtless comments about the homeless population.
I received this ARC from Bloomsbury USA Children's Books and Bloomsbury USA Childrens via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Messner has given us a compassionate and necessary middle grade story about the reality of homelessness for many children today. This story has a unique premise with the geocaching theme and I love that while the main character is in 8th grade he will be relatable for students both much younger and much older than he is. I would love to get this book into the hands of all teachers and administrators who struggle to understand how difficult school can be for children without a stable home life, and who make well-intended but thoughtless comments about the homeless population.
I received this ARC from Bloomsbury USA Children's Books and Bloomsbury USA Childrens via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
FilmIntuition (33 KP) rated Darius the Great is Not Okay in Books
Sep 15, 2018
A Wholly Original Debut
Though it takes a little bit for the action to pick up in author Adib Khorram's debut work, much like the titular protagonist in this young adult coming-of-age novel, great things come both to Darius as well as the patient readers who wait.
Bursting with vivid imagery and a wholly original first-person point-of-view right from the start, Darius the Great is Not Okay - about a half Persian, half Caucasian teenager who travels with his family to visit his maternal grandparents for the first time in Iran - is sure to be one of the genre's breakout successes of 2018.
A timely, fresh, and relatable character driven work, the book centers on Darius Kellner's search for that one place in which he fits.
Understanding the complexity of being a teenager, Adib Khorram tackles Darius Kellner's "outsider" status from a variety of perspectives bound to ring true to readers from envying his younger sister's relationship with his father to being bullied or ridiculed on two continents.
Finding a true friend in the last place he expected, which causes him to learn more about himself in the process, Darius the Great's sensitivity and commitment to the people on and off the page makes it a standout for Fall.
Bursting with vivid imagery and a wholly original first-person point-of-view right from the start, Darius the Great is Not Okay - about a half Persian, half Caucasian teenager who travels with his family to visit his maternal grandparents for the first time in Iran - is sure to be one of the genre's breakout successes of 2018.
A timely, fresh, and relatable character driven work, the book centers on Darius Kellner's search for that one place in which he fits.
Understanding the complexity of being a teenager, Adib Khorram tackles Darius Kellner's "outsider" status from a variety of perspectives bound to ring true to readers from envying his younger sister's relationship with his father to being bullied or ridiculed on two continents.
Finding a true friend in the last place he expected, which causes him to learn more about himself in the process, Darius the Great's sensitivity and commitment to the people on and off the page makes it a standout for Fall.
Dominique Marie (7 KP) rated The Princess Diarist in Books
Nov 28, 2018 (Updated Nov 28, 2018)
MMD Reading Challenge 2017- For Fun
Category: Book in a genre you usually avoid
I avoid celebrity memoirs, mostly because I feel that I can get enough celebrity news from the internet and tv. I don't want to read books about that subject in most cases. I chose The Princess Diarist because I love Star Wars, and this memoir takes place during the filming. I had very mixed feelings about this book. Fisher is hilarious and relatable, at times far to crass for my liking, but candid. Her diaries from when she was young were probably the most interesting part to me. Her affair with Harrison was just so heartbreaking to me. She tries to defend him, but I think it's awful. Right after he "rescues" her from some co-workers who have gotten her plastered, he takes her into his car and makes out with her. He was 15 years older than her, and married with two kids. It was also heartbreaking because she idolized him so much. The contrast between her diaries and her current thoughts made for a good read, but I can't say that I really liked it, or really hated it. It was just such a mixed bag for me.
Category: Book in a genre you usually avoid
I avoid celebrity memoirs, mostly because I feel that I can get enough celebrity news from the internet and tv. I don't want to read books about that subject in most cases. I chose The Princess Diarist because I love Star Wars, and this memoir takes place during the filming. I had very mixed feelings about this book. Fisher is hilarious and relatable, at times far to crass for my liking, but candid. Her diaries from when she was young were probably the most interesting part to me. Her affair with Harrison was just so heartbreaking to me. She tries to defend him, but I think it's awful. Right after he "rescues" her from some co-workers who have gotten her plastered, he takes her into his car and makes out with her. He was 15 years older than her, and married with two kids. It was also heartbreaking because she idolized him so much. The contrast between her diaries and her current thoughts made for a good read, but I can't say that I really liked it, or really hated it. It was just such a mixed bag for me.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Cover Me - Single by Camille Miller in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Camille Miller is a German-born singer-songwriter who was raised on military bases all over Canada. Not too long ago, she released a cool indie-alternative tune, entitled, “Cover Me”.
“Stand before me, let me your soul. Let me feel the warmth of your touch. Hearts unguarded, bodies perfect in their flaws. I can’t do this on my own. Modern life through the telephone staring in and fading out. We’re all covered in lonely, we’re all covered in doubt.” – lyrics
‘Cover Me’ contains a relatable narrative, pleasing vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with indie-pop and alternative elements. Also, the track possesses a tasty guitar solo.
“Thinking about how technology and social media sometimes make us doubt ourselves. How something that can brilliantly bring us together, can also keep us separated in ways we have never experienced before. How the need and want of human interaction is so important and deeply needed.” – Camille Miller
Camille Miller was brought up on a hearty diet of Motown, Carly Simon, The Carpenters, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and the Rolling Stones.
With the sound of these greats of yesteryear oozing through her veins, she continues her global trend of turning listeners into lifelong fans.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/camille-miller-cover-me/
“Stand before me, let me your soul. Let me feel the warmth of your touch. Hearts unguarded, bodies perfect in their flaws. I can’t do this on my own. Modern life through the telephone staring in and fading out. We’re all covered in lonely, we’re all covered in doubt.” – lyrics
‘Cover Me’ contains a relatable narrative, pleasing vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with indie-pop and alternative elements. Also, the track possesses a tasty guitar solo.
“Thinking about how technology and social media sometimes make us doubt ourselves. How something that can brilliantly bring us together, can also keep us separated in ways we have never experienced before. How the need and want of human interaction is so important and deeply needed.” – Camille Miller
Camille Miller was brought up on a hearty diet of Motown, Carly Simon, The Carpenters, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and the Rolling Stones.
With the sound of these greats of yesteryear oozing through her veins, she continues her global trend of turning listeners into lifelong fans.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/camille-miller-cover-me/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Stories by Refs in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Refs is an electronic-pop duo based in New York City. Not too long ago, they released a music video for their “Turn Around” single.
“Day-one Refs’ fans are a patient breed. When we played our first show earlier this year, and over half the audience knew every word to every song, our minds were actually blown. We wanted to tie a bow on what feels like the end of an era, and set the stage for a new one. But above all else, this mixtape is meant as a sincere thank you to our day-one crew.” – Refs
‘Turn Around’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and lush instrumentation scented with an electro-pop fragrance.
Refs consists of Zach Lipkins and Richard Saunders. Since revealing “Pain Goes Away” in 2015, the bubbly duo has racked up millions of streams online.
Not too long ago, they grouped all of their released music under the banner of their debut mixtape, entitled, “Stories”.
The project features new versions of their “Turn Around” and “Breeze” singles. Also, it serves as a glistening journey through the gorgeous soundscapes that have seen Refs become regarded as a duo to watch.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/refs-turn-around/
“Day-one Refs’ fans are a patient breed. When we played our first show earlier this year, and over half the audience knew every word to every song, our minds were actually blown. We wanted to tie a bow on what feels like the end of an era, and set the stage for a new one. But above all else, this mixtape is meant as a sincere thank you to our day-one crew.” – Refs
‘Turn Around’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and lush instrumentation scented with an electro-pop fragrance.
Refs consists of Zach Lipkins and Richard Saunders. Since revealing “Pain Goes Away” in 2015, the bubbly duo has racked up millions of streams online.
Not too long ago, they grouped all of their released music under the banner of their debut mixtape, entitled, “Stories”.
The project features new versions of their “Turn Around” and “Breeze” singles. Also, it serves as a glistening journey through the gorgeous soundscapes that have seen Refs become regarded as a duo to watch.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/refs-turn-around/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Hurry - Single by Leena in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Leena is an up-and-coming Miami-raised singer-songwriter from Dallas, Texas. Not too long ago, she released a lovely urban pop tune, entitled, “Hurry”.
“I hate feeling like a stranger. I’m so sick of conversations that just leads to confrontations with you. Hoping that you’ll save me. Take my hand and fly away. You’re the one that I’ve been seeing. I can’t seem to find my way with you hoping that you’ll say. Baby, where you at? Im tryna relax so find me when you can and show me, babe.” – lyrics
‘Hurry’ is the second single from Leena’s upcoming EP.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline and pleasing vocals. Also, the song possesses melodic instrumentation flavored with urban-pop and contemporary R&B elements.
“’Hurry’ is about finally finding your worth and not waiting for a man to control or contradict your next move. It’s about becoming independent, making your own money and bossing up” – Leena
Leena’s musical influences include Kehlani, Ella Mai, and SZA.
Her music consists of themes describing the hardship and enjoyment of life and love.
“‘Hurry’ is full of emotion that’s expressed with Leena’s lush vocals and beautifully written lyrics that will take listeners into a world of desire.”
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/leena-hurry/
“I hate feeling like a stranger. I’m so sick of conversations that just leads to confrontations with you. Hoping that you’ll save me. Take my hand and fly away. You’re the one that I’ve been seeing. I can’t seem to find my way with you hoping that you’ll say. Baby, where you at? Im tryna relax so find me when you can and show me, babe.” – lyrics
‘Hurry’ is the second single from Leena’s upcoming EP.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline and pleasing vocals. Also, the song possesses melodic instrumentation flavored with urban-pop and contemporary R&B elements.
“’Hurry’ is about finally finding your worth and not waiting for a man to control or contradict your next move. It’s about becoming independent, making your own money and bossing up” – Leena
Leena’s musical influences include Kehlani, Ella Mai, and SZA.
Her music consists of themes describing the hardship and enjoyment of life and love.
“‘Hurry’ is full of emotion that’s expressed with Leena’s lush vocals and beautifully written lyrics that will take listeners into a world of desire.”
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/leena-hurry/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Just Friends - Single by Virginia To Vegas in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Virginia To Vegas (Derik Baker) is a singer-songwriter based in Toronto, Canada. Not too long ago, he released a lovely pop tune, entitled, “Just Friends”.
“Maybe, we can go get lost tonight. At least we know that we gave it a try. So why don’t we go out and get a drink in the West End? Smoke a cigarette and talk sh*t about exes. Take a couple of shots and see where the night ends. Stop pretending that we’re just friends.” – lyrics
‘Just Friends’ tells an interesting tale of two friends, a guy, and a girl. Apparently, the guy doesn’t want to be in the friend zone and wants to be more than just a friend to the woman he adores.
Later, he reminds her that one day in the back of a taxi she wanted to kiss him. But due to their friendship, she didn’t.
‘Just Friends’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and danceable instrumentation scented with an electro-pop fragrance.
After being discovered on YouTube, Virginia to Vegas signed to Wax Records in 2013. Since then, he has received critical acclaim and several platinum certifications.
In 2018, he expanded his reach internationally, co-writing the single “IDWK” with blackbear and DVBBS.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/virginia-to-vegas-just-friends/
“Maybe, we can go get lost tonight. At least we know that we gave it a try. So why don’t we go out and get a drink in the West End? Smoke a cigarette and talk sh*t about exes. Take a couple of shots and see where the night ends. Stop pretending that we’re just friends.” – lyrics
‘Just Friends’ tells an interesting tale of two friends, a guy, and a girl. Apparently, the guy doesn’t want to be in the friend zone and wants to be more than just a friend to the woman he adores.
Later, he reminds her that one day in the back of a taxi she wanted to kiss him. But due to their friendship, she didn’t.
‘Just Friends’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and danceable instrumentation scented with an electro-pop fragrance.
After being discovered on YouTube, Virginia to Vegas signed to Wax Records in 2013. Since then, he has received critical acclaim and several platinum certifications.
In 2018, he expanded his reach internationally, co-writing the single “IDWK” with blackbear and DVBBS.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/virginia-to-vegas-just-friends/