Search
Search results
Merissa (12066 KP) rated Tomboy in Books
May 7, 2018
Tomboy by Janelle Reston
Tomboy is a short but sweet, dare I say gentle, novella about two young girls. One is the tomboy in the title, and one comes from a "traditional" family. The story is told through Harriet's eyes as she compares her upbringing and beliefs with those of Jackie, who is allowed to wear clothes more suited for a boy. Her mum isn't exactly 'normal' though, and this great attitude has rubbed of onto Jackie. We meet them as young children, and stay with them as they progress through school, until they've been to college.
This novella skips along quite merrily with the transitions from one age to the next being absolutely seamless. Jackie always knows (or at least that's the impression I got) who she is, and what she wants, whereas Harriet isn't too sure, and does some experimenting before coming to her senses. Rich in the history of the time, with references to films and actors that I loved, we see the support Harriet gets from her dad, the unusual attitude of Jackie's mum, and also mentions of the cold war. I found this to be an absolutely fascinating read, and loved every moment.
With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, the time spent in this book sped by all too quickly. However, it has certainly given me another author to follow! A wonderful book that I would highly recommend.
* 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!
This novella skips along quite merrily with the transitions from one age to the next being absolutely seamless. Jackie always knows (or at least that's the impression I got) who she is, and what she wants, whereas Harriet isn't too sure, and does some experimenting before coming to her senses. Rich in the history of the time, with references to films and actors that I loved, we see the support Harriet gets from her dad, the unusual attitude of Jackie's mum, and also mentions of the cold war. I found this to be an absolutely fascinating read, and loved every moment.
With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, the time spent in this book sped by all too quickly. However, it has certainly given me another author to follow! A wonderful book that I would highly recommend.
* 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!
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Coyote Moon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 1, #3) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
<b>3.5 stars
A carnival full of odd workers comes to Sunnydale, Buffy's friends are preoccupied dating a couple of these workers, and a pack of strange coyotes are running amok in the streets. Buffy suspects all of these events are related but has no proof. What's a slayer to do?</b>
Set in the summer between the first and second seasons of <b>Buffy the Vampire Slayer</b>, <b><u>Coyote Moon</u></b> is a short and concise story that conveys the spirit of the show without too many noticeable inaccuracies. The major anachronism was Buffy staying in Sunnydale for the summer, which didn't happen during this time. Since this was written before any of the major angst occurred in the series, this has a lighter feel that carries through to the end. The author manages to get the characters and dialogue right via few lines and passages. The only misstep I caught was Giles' wrong definition of a blue moon -- I don't believe that's something he wouldn't have known. Otherwise everyone (Buffy, Willow, Xander, and Giles) rings true to their early incarnations, though more as a basic outline of their characters than anything too substantial. At first the plot reminded me slightly of the episode "The Pack," though this had to do with coyotes instead of hyenas, but once I got into it the story was completely different. The pace was brisk, and though the Big Bad's defeat was over in the blink of an eye, it was a solid read. I can easily see this fitting right in on screen and it's a good companion piece to read in between re-watching episodes.
A carnival full of odd workers comes to Sunnydale, Buffy's friends are preoccupied dating a couple of these workers, and a pack of strange coyotes are running amok in the streets. Buffy suspects all of these events are related but has no proof. What's a slayer to do?</b>
Set in the summer between the first and second seasons of <b>Buffy the Vampire Slayer</b>, <b><u>Coyote Moon</u></b> is a short and concise story that conveys the spirit of the show without too many noticeable inaccuracies. The major anachronism was Buffy staying in Sunnydale for the summer, which didn't happen during this time. Since this was written before any of the major angst occurred in the series, this has a lighter feel that carries through to the end. The author manages to get the characters and dialogue right via few lines and passages. The only misstep I caught was Giles' wrong definition of a blue moon -- I don't believe that's something he wouldn't have known. Otherwise everyone (Buffy, Willow, Xander, and Giles) rings true to their early incarnations, though more as a basic outline of their characters than anything too substantial. At first the plot reminded me slightly of the episode "The Pack," though this had to do with coyotes instead of hyenas, but once I got into it the story was completely different. The pace was brisk, and though the Big Bad's defeat was over in the blink of an eye, it was a solid read. I can easily see this fitting right in on screen and it's a good companion piece to read in between re-watching episodes.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Your Deepest Fear in Books
May 22, 2019
'Sara! Remember! Victoria and Albert. All I can say. They're here. They're-'
These are the last words Sara Prior will ever hear from her husband.
As DS Nathan Cody struggles to make sense of the enigmatic message and solve the brutal murder, it soon becomes clear that Sara is no ordinary bereaved wife. Taking the investigation into her own hands, Sara is drawn into a world of violence that will lead her in a direction she would never have suspected.
For Cody, meanwhile, things are about to get personal in the darkest and most twisted ways imaginable . . .
This is the fourth Nathan Cody book. However, everything you need to know about Codys background is nicely covered in Your Deepest Fear so there is no chance you will fail to understand the significance of some of the bigger moments in this book.
This is a brilliant dark and twisted novel. It has short chapters which makes it a fast paced read and keeps the suspense built up.
Our lead is again Nathan Cody who is back after having being on forced leave due to mental anxiety/demons he is battling from the previous case. Still not being able to be full active duty he finds himself drawn into another investigation which will have him facing his demons.
Wow the twists and turns just keep the suspense ratcheted up and glued to the edge reading non stop.
A MUST READ, an easy five stars and so Highly Recommended.
I would like to thank the author, Bonnier Zaffre and Netgalley for the ARC. This is my honest voluntary review.
These are the last words Sara Prior will ever hear from her husband.
As DS Nathan Cody struggles to make sense of the enigmatic message and solve the brutal murder, it soon becomes clear that Sara is no ordinary bereaved wife. Taking the investigation into her own hands, Sara is drawn into a world of violence that will lead her in a direction she would never have suspected.
For Cody, meanwhile, things are about to get personal in the darkest and most twisted ways imaginable . . .
This is the fourth Nathan Cody book. However, everything you need to know about Codys background is nicely covered in Your Deepest Fear so there is no chance you will fail to understand the significance of some of the bigger moments in this book.
This is a brilliant dark and twisted novel. It has short chapters which makes it a fast paced read and keeps the suspense built up.
Our lead is again Nathan Cody who is back after having being on forced leave due to mental anxiety/demons he is battling from the previous case. Still not being able to be full active duty he finds himself drawn into another investigation which will have him facing his demons.
Wow the twists and turns just keep the suspense ratcheted up and glued to the edge reading non stop.
A MUST READ, an easy five stars and so Highly Recommended.
I would like to thank the author, Bonnier Zaffre and Netgalley for the ARC. This is my honest voluntary review.
Ivana A. | Diary of Difference (1171 KP) rated The Frightened Little Flower Bud in Books
Jul 10, 2018
I don’t usually read Children’s Books. I used to love them when I was a kid, and of course, those were the books on which I learned how to read. Those are the stories that I will always remember with happiness in my heart and they will always have a special place in my heart.
I was lucky enough to win The Frightened Little Flower Bud on a giveaway from Booklikes, and I couldn’t be happier! This is a short, cute story about one flower, and the process of how it blooms.
Before it blooms, it has many fears as to what is going to happen, it fears that the sun will dry it, and the rain will drown it, and that it won’t be as beautiful as the other flowers out there.
It reminds me of the fears that us people have every day before we go out of the door. We fear this and that, without realising to enjoy our lives, and live them like they are our last. A perfect description of how fear and doubt can let us down, but also a perfect example of what happens when you actually get the courage and go out there, and realise that yes - you can be the prettiest flower out there.
I liked how there are questions at the end of the books, to engage the little readers after reading it. However, in all honesty, I believe that the images inside the books won’t keep a kid there for very long, and they might not be the most exiting this in the world.
I was lucky enough to win The Frightened Little Flower Bud on a giveaway from Booklikes, and I couldn’t be happier! This is a short, cute story about one flower, and the process of how it blooms.
Before it blooms, it has many fears as to what is going to happen, it fears that the sun will dry it, and the rain will drown it, and that it won’t be as beautiful as the other flowers out there.
It reminds me of the fears that us people have every day before we go out of the door. We fear this and that, without realising to enjoy our lives, and live them like they are our last. A perfect description of how fear and doubt can let us down, but also a perfect example of what happens when you actually get the courage and go out there, and realise that yes - you can be the prettiest flower out there.
I liked how there are questions at the end of the books, to engage the little readers after reading it. However, in all honesty, I believe that the images inside the books won’t keep a kid there for very long, and they might not be the most exiting this in the world.
A very uncomfortable read.
We know straight from the very first page what has happened and who committed the murder of 2 small children: it’s the nanny. This book is far more to do with the ‘why’ of it. Why exactly did she do it? Were there any mitigating circumstances?
This short novel shows a middle-aged woman who is very lonely, poor and under-educated. She does the work she loves though, looking after children in their own homes. She becomes very attached to all of her charges, and it seems that they all adore her.
This isn’t a story with a nice explanation or reason for a murder. It’s a lot like real life in that way: sometimes people become overwhelmed and can’t cope. It seemed obvious to me from early in that the nanny, Louise, had mental health problems. She seemed to be given full responsibility of two small children for a large part of the day, whilst their parents worked really long hours. I think the changing opinions of the parents don’t help her: one minute she can do no wrong and is an integral part of the family, the next, she’s ‘just’ the hired help. The ending isn’t wrapped up all nicely with a resolution. There’s no happy ending for any of them. Just like real life. I wasn’t surprised to learn that this could actually be based on the true story of a nanny murdering her employers children in much the same way, which made it all the more chilling.
If you’re not ok with reading about child murders, I’d steer well clear of this book, otherwise, it’s a very compelling read.
This short novel shows a middle-aged woman who is very lonely, poor and under-educated. She does the work she loves though, looking after children in their own homes. She becomes very attached to all of her charges, and it seems that they all adore her.
This isn’t a story with a nice explanation or reason for a murder. It’s a lot like real life in that way: sometimes people become overwhelmed and can’t cope. It seemed obvious to me from early in that the nanny, Louise, had mental health problems. She seemed to be given full responsibility of two small children for a large part of the day, whilst their parents worked really long hours. I think the changing opinions of the parents don’t help her: one minute she can do no wrong and is an integral part of the family, the next, she’s ‘just’ the hired help. The ending isn’t wrapped up all nicely with a resolution. There’s no happy ending for any of them. Just like real life. I wasn’t surprised to learn that this could actually be based on the true story of a nanny murdering her employers children in much the same way, which made it all the more chilling.
If you’re not ok with reading about child murders, I’d steer well clear of this book, otherwise, it’s a very compelling read.
Debbiereadsbook (1202 KP) rated Alphas Of Seduction Anthology in Books
Oct 18, 2018
great box set
Once Upon An Alpha along with 4 Paws for Ability, and these several bestselling authors, bring you this page turning, limited edition, anthology that’s sure to keep you up well past your bed time and craving your own Alpha of Seduction.
I had no idea what this charity does, but there is a little bit at the beginning that describes their work. I couldn't see a common theme running through each story, but I did read them all. Maybe, if the theme was more prominent in each story, I might have enjoyed this set a little more. There wasn't, though, any one story that stood out, for either positive or negative reasons, and I'm struggling to write a review for each story, some only a few pages long.
So, here's a general review, for the entire set!
I found them all well written, some in the the third person, some in the first. Some were sexier than others, some almost clean. I saw no spelling or editing errors in any short to spoil my reading.
All these authors are new to me. After some sorting, my wish list is now many more books longer, as each author has given me a taste of their work, and I want to read longer books by these authors. BY ALL of these authors! Usually, in box sets like this, one or two sneak on to my wish list, but this time, they all did.
A nice way to pass a few lunch breaks, a hours of shutting out the world.
a good solid..
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
I had no idea what this charity does, but there is a little bit at the beginning that describes their work. I couldn't see a common theme running through each story, but I did read them all. Maybe, if the theme was more prominent in each story, I might have enjoyed this set a little more. There wasn't, though, any one story that stood out, for either positive or negative reasons, and I'm struggling to write a review for each story, some only a few pages long.
So, here's a general review, for the entire set!
I found them all well written, some in the the third person, some in the first. Some were sexier than others, some almost clean. I saw no spelling or editing errors in any short to spoil my reading.
All these authors are new to me. After some sorting, my wish list is now many more books longer, as each author has given me a taste of their work, and I want to read longer books by these authors. BY ALL of these authors! Usually, in box sets like this, one or two sneak on to my wish list, but this time, they all did.
A nice way to pass a few lunch breaks, a hours of shutting out the world.
a good solid..
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Merissa (12066 KP) rated Shaman's Seduction in Books
Oct 19, 2018
Shaman's Seduction by Kathryne Kennedy
Shaman's Seduction is a delightful collection of three short stories, all set in the world, but set at different times. We start off with Inaluck, who has worked hard to earn the respect of her father's warriors, and her place as Chieftain's Daughter. When The Great Cold comes, Inaluck is sent to the outlying villages for reinforcements. Going to one of them, with a reputation of being cowards, she finds more than she bargains for, and takes her first step to becoming a Shaman. Then we meet Za'lla, who dreams of a sister she never knew, which leads her on her big adventure, finding love on the way. Lastly, we have Kalaka, an apprentice Shaman who needs to learn more than the basics, and will help to figure out who she is in the process.
These are quick reads, but all of them without any editing or grammatical errors. There was enough world-building that it is all clear, without taking over the essence of the stories. If I had one criticism, it would be that I felt a bit lost with the two following stories. I had no idea if they were after Inaluck, or before. That is only a small thing though, and probably wouldn't bother the majority of people!
A thoroughly enjoyable read, divided into three bite-size chunks, which make this perfect for a coffee break book. 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!
These are quick reads, but all of them without any editing or grammatical errors. There was enough world-building that it is all clear, without taking over the essence of the stories. If I had one criticism, it would be that I felt a bit lost with the two following stories. I had no idea if they were after Inaluck, or before. That is only a small thing though, and probably wouldn't bother the majority of people!
A thoroughly enjoyable read, divided into three bite-size chunks, which make this perfect for a coffee break book. 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!
An interesting take on the tale
If you take for granted that the makers of this short series have taken some liberties with the classic tale, then you will enjoy this adaptation all the more. My wife, who hasn't read the book and barely remembers the Gary Oldman film, really enjoyed this series. I, who have read and loved the book and a few prequel/sequel attempts, enjoyed it a little less. However, for what it is, it's a very clever and witty interpretation of the story.
The three episodes are largely standalone and in a different setting. The first episode we are in familiar territory with Jonathan Harker in Castle Dracula. Here the makers explored Harker's passive imprisonment and gradual blood-draining far more than in other adaptations, giving the viewer a real confused, frustrated and claustrophobic feeling. The second episode takes place on the Count's journey to the UK. Again previous adaptations have skipped over this, and the crew's gradual diminution, which was a bigger factor of the book. This is when Dracula's psychological twisting and sick sense of humour start to feature more heavily, with some good head-scratching twists.
The third episode covers Dracula's time in the UK, but not as you've ever seen before. I thought this part was brilliant, but won't give any spoilers. The main features of this part of the original story are retained (Dracula's mutual obsession with Lucy Westenra), but Dracula is now revealed like never before, with some of his weaknesses explored and exposed for what they are.
Like I say, if you can accept the liberties taken, this is a great adaptation with a really sassy Dracula.
The three episodes are largely standalone and in a different setting. The first episode we are in familiar territory with Jonathan Harker in Castle Dracula. Here the makers explored Harker's passive imprisonment and gradual blood-draining far more than in other adaptations, giving the viewer a real confused, frustrated and claustrophobic feeling. The second episode takes place on the Count's journey to the UK. Again previous adaptations have skipped over this, and the crew's gradual diminution, which was a bigger factor of the book. This is when Dracula's psychological twisting and sick sense of humour start to feature more heavily, with some good head-scratching twists.
The third episode covers Dracula's time in the UK, but not as you've ever seen before. I thought this part was brilliant, but won't give any spoilers. The main features of this part of the original story are retained (Dracula's mutual obsession with Lucy Westenra), but Dracula is now revealed like never before, with some of his weaknesses explored and exposed for what they are.
Like I say, if you can accept the liberties taken, this is a great adaptation with a really sassy Dracula.
AJaneClark (3975 KP) rated Hardwired (Hacker, #1) in Books
Apr 19, 2020
From the back of the book: Determined to overcome a difficult past, Erica Hathaway learns early on how to make it on her own. Days after her college graduation she finds herself face to face with a panel of investors who will make or break her fledgling startup. The only thing she didn't prepare for was going weak in the knees over an arrogant and gorgeous investor who's seemingly determined to derail her presentation.
Billionaire and rumored hacker Blake Landon has already made his fortune in software, and he's used to getting what he wants with very little resistance. Captivated by Erica's drive and unassuming beauty, he's wanted nothing more since she stepped into his boardroom. Determined to win her over, he breaks down her defenses and fights for her trust, even if that means sacrificing a level of control he's grown accustomed to.
But when Blake uncovers a dark secret from Erica's past, he threatens not just her trust, but the life she's fought so hard to create.
I’m not familiar with the author and this is the first of her books that I have read. The premise of the story is interesting, although most definitely a little fifty shadesesque.
I found it an enjoyable short read of 260+ pages.
However I do feel that it could be improved through a little better character development and backgrounds. The storyline is via choppy and jumpy, in no way linear. Erica’s hot and cold, yes/no, sub/doe/switch attitude leaves you with a touch of whiplash, and Blake’s controlling nature is slightly worrying. Hopefully the second novel in the story is an improvement.
Billionaire and rumored hacker Blake Landon has already made his fortune in software, and he's used to getting what he wants with very little resistance. Captivated by Erica's drive and unassuming beauty, he's wanted nothing more since she stepped into his boardroom. Determined to win her over, he breaks down her defenses and fights for her trust, even if that means sacrificing a level of control he's grown accustomed to.
But when Blake uncovers a dark secret from Erica's past, he threatens not just her trust, but the life she's fought so hard to create.
I’m not familiar with the author and this is the first of her books that I have read. The premise of the story is interesting, although most definitely a little fifty shadesesque.
I found it an enjoyable short read of 260+ pages.
However I do feel that it could be improved through a little better character development and backgrounds. The storyline is via choppy and jumpy, in no way linear. Erica’s hot and cold, yes/no, sub/doe/switch attitude leaves you with a touch of whiplash, and Blake’s controlling nature is slightly worrying. Hopefully the second novel in the story is an improvement.
This frankly stunning book, begins like many women’s normal, everyday evenings: getting the children ready for bed on their own, waiting for their husband to get in from their commute.
Lucy enjoys her alone time think, and enjoys the time she spends with her children. She works from home since having had the children. She had a good job, had even started to study for a PhD at one point, and she appears to be happy with her life as it is. Until an unexpected phone call one evening. Jake, her husband, is late home from work, and the stranger on the phone tells Lucy that her husband is having an affair with his wife. Lucy is stunned. Jake is full of remorse when she tells him, and he tells her that she can punish him three times - as long as they stay together.
This book looks at how punishment skirts very closely to revenge, and the effect that it can have on your own sanity. It uses mythology and the myth of the Harpy, to exact that revenge. As time progresses and Lucy becomes more embroiled in her Harpy-like acts of revenge, there are excerpts that seem to come from a Harpy’s point of view. I liked these parts. They seemed to revel in the feelings of vengeance, something that all ‘nice’ girls are taught not to do. Instead of turning the other cheek, Lucy goes for full-on retribution.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It’s a short, totally absorbing read, and is the second book I’ve read and enjoyed by Megan Hunter. I’m looking forward to whatever comes next!
Lucy enjoys her alone time think, and enjoys the time she spends with her children. She works from home since having had the children. She had a good job, had even started to study for a PhD at one point, and she appears to be happy with her life as it is. Until an unexpected phone call one evening. Jake, her husband, is late home from work, and the stranger on the phone tells Lucy that her husband is having an affair with his wife. Lucy is stunned. Jake is full of remorse when she tells him, and he tells her that she can punish him three times - as long as they stay together.
This book looks at how punishment skirts very closely to revenge, and the effect that it can have on your own sanity. It uses mythology and the myth of the Harpy, to exact that revenge. As time progresses and Lucy becomes more embroiled in her Harpy-like acts of revenge, there are excerpts that seem to come from a Harpy’s point of view. I liked these parts. They seemed to revel in the feelings of vengeance, something that all ‘nice’ girls are taught not to do. Instead of turning the other cheek, Lucy goes for full-on retribution.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It’s a short, totally absorbing read, and is the second book I’ve read and enjoyed by Megan Hunter. I’m looking forward to whatever comes next!