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ArecRain (8 KP) rated Jackson's Trust (Fourth Down, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have not read any of the authors previous works, nor do I usually read sports romances. I requested this novel because I couldnt get over how hot the cover was. With a cover like that, it has to be good right? Right! I was definitely not disappointed.
First of all, I know nothing about sports so I was praying there wasnt a lot of terms I didnt understand. I was pleased that this was one of those novels that didnt leave nonsports fan in the dark. I loathe the trope of the man not liking commitment (for whatever reason), but I liked Jackson so much, I didnt even notice. Reading his interactions were both humorous and pleased the romantic in me.
Duke has an easy style that makes her writing a pleasure to read. I felt that I didnt have to force myself to be interested nor did I struggle to make it through. There were some twists, I guess, but I wasnt surprised by them. In fact, Leilas secret was kind of a joke.
If you are looking for a heart melting read that will have you both cursing and laughing out loud, then I suggest this novel to you.
I have not read any of the authors previous works, nor do I usually read sports romances. I requested this novel because I couldnt get over how hot the cover was. With a cover like that, it has to be good right? Right! I was definitely not disappointed.
First of all, I know nothing about sports so I was praying there wasnt a lot of terms I didnt understand. I was pleased that this was one of those novels that didnt leave nonsports fan in the dark. I loathe the trope of the man not liking commitment (for whatever reason), but I liked Jackson so much, I didnt even notice. Reading his interactions were both humorous and pleased the romantic in me.
Duke has an easy style that makes her writing a pleasure to read. I felt that I didnt have to force myself to be interested nor did I struggle to make it through. There were some twists, I guess, but I wasnt surprised by them. In fact, Leilas secret was kind of a joke.
If you are looking for a heart melting read that will have you both cursing and laughing out loud, then I suggest this novel to you.
Erika Kehlet (21 KP) rated Rest in Peach (Georgia Peach Mystery #2) in Books
Feb 21, 2018
What a sweet treat! This was my first Georgia Peach mystery, and I really enjoyed it. The story and the setting just ooze southern charm. Nola Mae Harper is working hard to get her Peachy Keen shop ready to open on time when a murder occurs in town, and her best friend is the prime suspect. She knows the safe thing to do is to stay out of police business, but will the sheriff really look any farther with such a convenient suspect at hand? When it seems that she wont, Nola and her group of friends get together to try save Ginnys reputation, the Peach Cotillion, and a romantic relationship or two.
Nola, Hattie, and Ginny are an engaging group of friends with very individual, believable personalities, and there were enough suspects and clues in this mystery to keep me guessing right up to the end.
This is book #2 in the series. While I think it might have been nice to know a little more about Nolas first case, since she refers to it occasionally during the story, you dont need to have read book #1 to enjoy this one.
NOTE: I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Nola, Hattie, and Ginny are an engaging group of friends with very individual, believable personalities, and there were enough suspects and clues in this mystery to keep me guessing right up to the end.
This is book #2 in the series. While I think it might have been nice to know a little more about Nolas first case, since she refers to it occasionally during the story, you dont need to have read book #1 to enjoy this one.
NOTE: I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated Double Dose (Research & Desire, #4) in Books
Jul 10, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first Katie Allen book that I have read. It is also the 4th in the series. When it comes to romantic suspenses I crave a good plot line and good characters, this book didn't give me what I wanted. The idea behind this book was extremely intriguing. I love the idea of a kidnapped damsel who falls for the not so bad guy plot.
Unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I want to get to know the characters better. Daphne, has the classic "I'm a klutz" syndrome that most heroines have. It's a way to get women to relate to her and show that she isn't perfect but it really is over used. The characters were very shallow and the backstory for them were minimal. I would have loved to have more depth and development for the main characters. It seems that there was never a moment where they weren't going to fall madly in love. It was a very cookie cutter romance.
Ultimately, I loved the idea but the execution was lacking. I think what would have made this more than a 3 star book would be better character development. This would have added an emotional attachment that would have helped when the plot was lacking.
This is the first Katie Allen book that I have read. It is also the 4th in the series. When it comes to romantic suspenses I crave a good plot line and good characters, this book didn't give me what I wanted. The idea behind this book was extremely intriguing. I love the idea of a kidnapped damsel who falls for the not so bad guy plot.
Unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I want to get to know the characters better. Daphne, has the classic "I'm a klutz" syndrome that most heroines have. It's a way to get women to relate to her and show that she isn't perfect but it really is over used. The characters were very shallow and the backstory for them were minimal. I would have loved to have more depth and development for the main characters. It seems that there was never a moment where they weren't going to fall madly in love. It was a very cookie cutter romance.
Ultimately, I loved the idea but the execution was lacking. I think what would have made this more than a 3 star book would be better character development. This would have added an emotional attachment that would have helped when the plot was lacking.
justmissash (21 KP) rated The Nightingale in Books
Aug 23, 2018
I had never heard of Kristin Hannah before, but will be looking for other books by her. Her writing is seamless and vivid and realistic. The Nightingale is a wonderful story of two sisters, far apart in body and mind, but still connected. They lose their mother and then experience the abandonment of their father. Both women are torn, but in their own way. The story takes place in France, in a small village until the women who realize they need something different, separate, with one sister in Paris and the other in the country, during WWII. The story is a bit dramatic, but I think it is fitting. Their feelings and emotions and experiences are so real and authentic. It is definitely an emotionally engaging read. Not only is the characters so vivid but it combines their story with an accuracy of the world history around them during that period and is interesting for people like myself, who are history buffs. Both women learn to live and learn to love. It is romantic and not just in a sexually intimate way. This story is complex, passionate, engaging and captivating and will make you think and feel along with them.
I received this book for free from SheSpeaks as part of the book club program, but the above review is based on my own opinions and thoughts.
I received this book for free from SheSpeaks as part of the book club program, but the above review is based on my own opinions and thoughts.
Micky Barnard (542 KP) rated A Court of Wings and Ruin in Books
Sep 15, 2018
Don't want this to be over
This was a different ride to the two previous books in the series but it delivered. The focus was strategy and war which was complex but so cleverly plotted and written. I feel this book provided consistency in quality and didn't dip like some trilogies do at this point.
There is a lighter romantic touch to ACOWAR but the depth of love is solid, desperate and tangible. Feyre has been on such a journey as a character and what a woman she has become, a woman I admire and love as a favourite character. Rhysand was wonderful and the cast of strong side characters rocked this book, namely Nesta, Cassian and others. Dare I say, I both loved and feared some of the monsters in ACOWAR and cried over others. The creatures are described so skillfully that this is fantasy that has a 3D feeling.
I'm sad on the one hand that this first trilogy instalment is over, but I'm excited about who will feature in the next three. I have hopes about who will be the main characters, however I trust Maas to deliver. I will re-read without doubt.
This was an audio listen and I was worried about the narrator change but Amanda Leigh Cobb seamlessly slipped into the role which is admirable on book three. Great narration from start to finish.
There is a lighter romantic touch to ACOWAR but the depth of love is solid, desperate and tangible. Feyre has been on such a journey as a character and what a woman she has become, a woman I admire and love as a favourite character. Rhysand was wonderful and the cast of strong side characters rocked this book, namely Nesta, Cassian and others. Dare I say, I both loved and feared some of the monsters in ACOWAR and cried over others. The creatures are described so skillfully that this is fantasy that has a 3D feeling.
I'm sad on the one hand that this first trilogy instalment is over, but I'm excited about who will feature in the next three. I have hopes about who will be the main characters, however I trust Maas to deliver. I will re-read without doubt.
This was an audio listen and I was worried about the narrator change but Amanda Leigh Cobb seamlessly slipped into the role which is admirable on book three. Great narration from start to finish.
Awix (3310 KP) rated A Star Is Born (2018) in Movies
Oct 10, 2018
The story that's been resurrected more times than Dracula is back again, this time with Bradley Cooper as troubled country-rocker Jackson Maine, and Lady Gaga as the aspiring singer-songwriter who starts off as his protege/girlfriend but whose talent threatens to eclipse his. Better bring your hankies (or some kind of absorbent cloth, anyway).
Well, the good news is that Cooper can sing and Gaga can act, so the film hangs together as a dramatic musical, but it's still probably at its best when Cooper is acting and Gaga is singing. Some of the songs are absolutely lovely, but to be quite honest, the film goes on a bit too long, especially the wallowing-in-existential-misery stuff near the end. It's also made quite clear from the opening moments that Cooper's character has problems, so the story kind of comes across as one last detour on the way down than a genuine romantic tragedy.
Still, well acted, well sung, convincing stuff: the kind of old-fashioned meaty melodrama that often does very well for itself both critically and commercially, though it may have come out a bit too early to really storm the Oscars next year. Brace yourself for a remake of The Bodyguard with Katy Perry or Taylor Swift, I shouldn't wonder.
Well, the good news is that Cooper can sing and Gaga can act, so the film hangs together as a dramatic musical, but it's still probably at its best when Cooper is acting and Gaga is singing. Some of the songs are absolutely lovely, but to be quite honest, the film goes on a bit too long, especially the wallowing-in-existential-misery stuff near the end. It's also made quite clear from the opening moments that Cooper's character has problems, so the story kind of comes across as one last detour on the way down than a genuine romantic tragedy.
Still, well acted, well sung, convincing stuff: the kind of old-fashioned meaty melodrama that often does very well for itself both critically and commercially, though it may have come out a bit too early to really storm the Oscars next year. Brace yourself for a remake of The Bodyguard with Katy Perry or Taylor Swift, I shouldn't wonder.
Merissa (13086 KP) rated Ivy (Blackbird #1) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
The first thing that I loved about this book is that the main female character has a warmth and depth to her that makes her immediately likeable. She is a young widow (not a virgin for a change) who is still grieving for her husband who died unexpectedly from pancreatic cancer. She is encouraged (bullied!) to leave her flat to go Christmas shopping but whilst she is in the store there is a terrorist attack. She doesn't just scream and flap and wait to be rescued. No, she thinks about the advice her husband gave her and follows it to the best of her ability. And that, is just the start.
This book is amazingly written and it is hard to believe that it is the debut novel. I would have loved more scenes with the three of them as there were quite a few with Ivy, and Ivy and her friends, but not so much with Ivy, Gareth and Steve. Maybe I'm just being greedy but they had such a good connection, I wanted to see more. Hopefully they will be in other Blackbird books, which I am eagerly anticipating.
On the whole, this book has a well-developed plot line which proceeds with a great pace. The characters are all believable and have layers to them. The story itself is funny, warm and romantic. Definitely recommended.
This book is amazingly written and it is hard to believe that it is the debut novel. I would have loved more scenes with the three of them as there were quite a few with Ivy, and Ivy and her friends, but not so much with Ivy, Gareth and Steve. Maybe I'm just being greedy but they had such a good connection, I wanted to see more. Hopefully they will be in other Blackbird books, which I am eagerly anticipating.
On the whole, this book has a well-developed plot line which proceeds with a great pace. The characters are all believable and have layers to them. The story itself is funny, warm and romantic. Definitely recommended.
Eleanor Luhar (47 KP) rated The First Time I Died in Books
Jun 22, 2019
Contains spoilers, click to show
Thank you to Hidden Gems for providing me with a copy of this book in return for my review!
I expected this to be quite an angsty, sad and maybe romantic novel. While it did have some of these aspects, it turned out to be far more of a detective novel than I ever anticipated.
I hate including spoilers in my review, and this isn't strictly a spoiler at all, but I found the anticipation leading up to the revelation of Colby's murder to be fantastic. As the reader, we are slowly given tiny bits of information, glimpses into the past, as Garnet recalls his disappearance. And after finding out that he was, in fact, dead, I was absolutely hooked on finding out what happened.
Toward the end of the book, Garnet seems to link everything together pretty fast. I'm not sure if it was too fast, honestly, but it's not a huge issue.
There was also a lot more behind his death than I'd ever anticipated, in terms of legalities and the family business. This was quite interesting, though in retrospect perhaps a little obvious.
The ending of this book was also nice - neat, satisfying, but not overly sweet. There was no big reunion between lovers. It just simply... ended.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this!
I expected this to be quite an angsty, sad and maybe romantic novel. While it did have some of these aspects, it turned out to be far more of a detective novel than I ever anticipated.
I hate including spoilers in my review, and this isn't strictly a spoiler at all, but I found the anticipation leading up to the revelation of Colby's murder to be fantastic. As the reader, we are slowly given tiny bits of information, glimpses into the past, as Garnet recalls his disappearance. And after finding out that he was, in fact, dead, I was absolutely hooked on finding out what happened.
Toward the end of the book, Garnet seems to link everything together pretty fast. I'm not sure if it was too fast, honestly, but it's not a huge issue.
There was also a lot more behind his death than I'd ever anticipated, in terms of legalities and the family business. This was quite interesting, though in retrospect perhaps a little obvious.
The ending of this book was also nice - neat, satisfying, but not overly sweet. There was no big reunion between lovers. It just simply... ended.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this!
justmissash (21 KP) rated The Nightingale in Books
Jun 23, 2019
I had never heard of Kristin Hannah before, but will be looking for other books by her. Her writing is seamless and vivid and realistic. The Nightingale is a wonderful story of two sisters, far apart in body and mind, but still connected. They lose their mother and then experience the abandonment of their father. Both women are torn, but in their own way. The story takes place in France, in a small village until the women who realize they need something different, separate, with one sister in Paris and the other in the country, during WWII. The story is a bit dramatic, but I think it is fitting. Their feelings and emotions and experiences are so real and authentic. It is definitely an emotionally engaging read. Not only is the characters so vivid but it combines their story with an accuracy of the world history around them during that period and is interesting for people like myself, who are history buffs. Both women learn to live and learn to love. It is romantic and not just in a sexually intimate way. This story is complex, passionate, engaging and captivating and will make you think and feel along with them.
I received this book for free from SheSpeaks as part of the book club program, but the above review is based on my own opinions and thoughts.
I received this book for free from SheSpeaks as part of the book club program, but the above review is based on my own opinions and thoughts.
JT (287 KP) rated Rim of the World (2019) in Movies
Mar 10, 2020
Given the success of Stranger Things it would seem that the mismatched relationship of a group of adolescent teens would make for great viewing. The format has had plenty of success in the past, think The Goonies and Lost Boys, but here it just seems tiresome and flat.
Teens at a summer camp get caught up in an alien invasion which leaves them with the option – whether to save the world or not – they do of course. And so begins a quest to through California to deliver an important piece of information that holds the key to defeating the alien race. Director McG really doesn’t have a grip on this one, relying on toilet humour and a pointless romantic sub plot to carry the film through to its final conclusion.
Makes me want to have kids just so I can insist they don’t watch this
Where the above mentioned films had a real sense of 80s nostalgia and a group of kids who you genuinely had an interest in, Rim of the World feels like an interlude to the next big retro throwback. Picking four stereotypes which pretty much cover off the socially inept and outcast, is almost annoying. Poor jokes and not very good special effects does little to elevate it to a Netflix success.
Teens at a summer camp get caught up in an alien invasion which leaves them with the option – whether to save the world or not – they do of course. And so begins a quest to through California to deliver an important piece of information that holds the key to defeating the alien race. Director McG really doesn’t have a grip on this one, relying on toilet humour and a pointless romantic sub plot to carry the film through to its final conclusion.
Makes me want to have kids just so I can insist they don’t watch this
Where the above mentioned films had a real sense of 80s nostalgia and a group of kids who you genuinely had an interest in, Rim of the World feels like an interlude to the next big retro throwback. Picking four stereotypes which pretty much cover off the socially inept and outcast, is almost annoying. Poor jokes and not very good special effects does little to elevate it to a Netflix success.