Search
Search results
Acanthea Grimscythe (300 KP) rated The Grownup in Books
May 16, 2018
Ambiguity in a story isn't necessarily a bad thing, but there's also a point where it becomes too much. In Gillian Flynn's award winning short story, "The Grownup," the reader is presented with a perfect example of exactly what happens when there is simply too much story left unanswered.
I would be doing myself a disservice if I didn't admit that Flynn immediately snared my attention with the opening to her short story: a main character whose job is to... well... to pleasure men, but not by having sex with them (oral or otherwise). Of course, this profession of hers is masqueraded by a front as a psychic. Because of this need to cover up her actual job, the main character meets a troubled woman by the name of Susan Burke and from there, things get a little crazy to say the least.
Plot-wise, Flynn does a great job at sticking to what many horror fans might describe as a classic ghost story, only she doesn't really go too far in depth as to the details of the haunting - or lack thereof. Instead, she introduces several characters, a plausible chain of what might be paranormal events, and then an inconclusive ending where no fault is actually placed.
For a short story, "The Grownup" isn't all that bad, though I must admit that the title doesn't mesh well with its contents. I would much rather have read this as a full length novel, as Flynn undoubtedly has a knack for unexpected twists and turns. Even though I found "The Grownup" to be unsatisfying, Flynn's talent at the element of surprise still shined through brightly in this short work.
I would be doing myself a disservice if I didn't admit that Flynn immediately snared my attention with the opening to her short story: a main character whose job is to... well... to pleasure men, but not by having sex with them (oral or otherwise). Of course, this profession of hers is masqueraded by a front as a psychic. Because of this need to cover up her actual job, the main character meets a troubled woman by the name of Susan Burke and from there, things get a little crazy to say the least.
Plot-wise, Flynn does a great job at sticking to what many horror fans might describe as a classic ghost story, only she doesn't really go too far in depth as to the details of the haunting - or lack thereof. Instead, she introduces several characters, a plausible chain of what might be paranormal events, and then an inconclusive ending where no fault is actually placed.
For a short story, "The Grownup" isn't all that bad, though I must admit that the title doesn't mesh well with its contents. I would much rather have read this as a full length novel, as Flynn undoubtedly has a knack for unexpected twists and turns. Even though I found "The Grownup" to be unsatisfying, Flynn's talent at the element of surprise still shined through brightly in this short work.
Go Film Magazine - Art House Cinema & Award Winning Movies On The Go
Entertainment and Magazines & Newspapers
7.0
Rate It
App
Go Film Magazine Brings You The Best Short Films From Around The World Straight To Your iPad and...
Jessica Cashen (1 KP) rated Perfected (Perfected, #1) in Books
May 16, 2018
Fantastic read. Well written witha great plot and characters. I was engrossed from start to finish. Perfected is about human pets, first we meet number eight, a young female that has been genetically bred at a "kennel." These pets are bred to be the perfect companion for any family that can afford the hefty cost of one. Once eight gets bought, her masters decide to call her Ella. She’s been taught from birth not to read and write, how to sit quietly, how to pay attention when one of her masters speak, to be a living doll for their daughters, basically to do whatever her masters wish. Ella believed that pets were important, but little did she know that once at her new home of a distinguished congressman that she truly was little more than an actual pet. Ella's role in her new master’s home is starting to feel really wrong. The little touches of the congressman’s hand on her cheek and shoulder is starting to give her the worst feeling. The one feeling that does make her heart swell is her friendship with congressman’s son, Penn. He makes her skin tingle, her pulse kicks up in happiness, but it’s a short lived feeling as Ella realizes everything with her situation. In order to truly feel, she must first be free. I really enjoyed this read, I can't wait to read the next book. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Netgalley.
Marylegs (44 KP) rated No Man Can Tame (The Dark-Elves of Nightbloom, #1) in Books
Aug 14, 2019
So, I have been in a bit of a book slump this year. I work hard. I have a two year old. I just don't have the time or the brain power for the types of books I used to read. 800 page epic novels are just too taxing on my time presently. Until I have the time like I use to, I want instant gratification from the books I read.
Now when I say this book is trash, I don't mean the story is rubbish. Far from it I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. What I mean is it isn't 'high' fiction, its probably not going to win any awards. What is is though, is a simple to read, quick paced, sexy book. I am not going to drag out descriptions about the characters and any flaws they may have had in character development (there were some, if I am to be anyway critical). I have read much much much worse books by 'high quality' authors. This was at it's simplest form a book that I have enjoyed reading. I enjoyed it so much that i will most likely read any future novels.
I also feel like it actually wouldn't take too much for this story to actually become 'high' fiction. but when a book it this short there is only so much character and world building that can be done. If it were ever re-edited to be expanded, would I read it again.... yes. The skeleton of the story is very good. but it is at present definitely a book written to get as quick as it can to the juicy (sexy) parts. some good shameless smut is included. So if you aren't into that, this is not the book for you.
This book well and truly got me out of my reading slump.
Now when I say this book is trash, I don't mean the story is rubbish. Far from it I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. What I mean is it isn't 'high' fiction, its probably not going to win any awards. What is is though, is a simple to read, quick paced, sexy book. I am not going to drag out descriptions about the characters and any flaws they may have had in character development (there were some, if I am to be anyway critical). I have read much much much worse books by 'high quality' authors. This was at it's simplest form a book that I have enjoyed reading. I enjoyed it so much that i will most likely read any future novels.
I also feel like it actually wouldn't take too much for this story to actually become 'high' fiction. but when a book it this short there is only so much character and world building that can be done. If it were ever re-edited to be expanded, would I read it again.... yes. The skeleton of the story is very good. but it is at present definitely a book written to get as quick as it can to the juicy (sexy) parts. some good shameless smut is included. So if you aren't into that, this is not the book for you.
This book well and truly got me out of my reading slump.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated Witch (The Cursed Manuscripts) in Books
May 30, 2021
I think I can safely say that I am a fan of Mr Wright's tales; they take me back to my teenage years when I read anything and everything that was described as horror or creepy and even now, in my 50's, I still enjoy a story "from the dark side"!
This is a good, short, quick read that has great characters and a great story however, I don't think the blurb makes much sense when you read the book - it doesn't seem to bear any relation to the actual story and the only think I can think of is there are more to come ... which is great but a tad confusing.
The story is actually about 2 teenagers who, on escaping some bullies, find themselves stumbling upon a ruined house in the middle of a wood; what they find there defies belief but no-one sees what they do so they decide to sort it out themselves which devastating consequences.
This is a good start to, hopefully, a new series where we will get to learn what the "Cursed Manuscripts" are all about.
My eternal thanks go to the author who provided a copy to me to read and review, this is no way influenced my thoughts on this book and it is is unbiased and unedited.
This is a good, short, quick read that has great characters and a great story however, I don't think the blurb makes much sense when you read the book - it doesn't seem to bear any relation to the actual story and the only think I can think of is there are more to come ... which is great but a tad confusing.
The story is actually about 2 teenagers who, on escaping some bullies, find themselves stumbling upon a ruined house in the middle of a wood; what they find there defies belief but no-one sees what they do so they decide to sort it out themselves which devastating consequences.
This is a good start to, hopefully, a new series where we will get to learn what the "Cursed Manuscripts" are all about.
My eternal thanks go to the author who provided a copy to me to read and review, this is no way influenced my thoughts on this book and it is is unbiased and unedited.
Sarah (7799 KP) rated My Name is Monster in Books
Sep 15, 2020
An interesting read
My main reason for choosing this book was on the basis of @ClareR review, and I'm glad I did as I enjoyed this much more than expected.
Post-apocalyptic books are a dime a dozen and I've read many over the years, with varying degrees of success. When I first picked up My Name is Monster I was worried it would be nothing new, but it's actually a very interesting read that I struggled to put down. The beginning of the story isn't anything different with a lone survivor scavenging in an empty world (I kept picturing something similar to 28 Days Later minus the infected), but it's how it's written that really got me hooked. I really liked the writing style and the short chapters, and I think Monster's plight was interesting. My biggest issue was with the second part of the book. There's a lot of questioning around mother, creator etc which was fine, but I found it got a little rambling at times which made it slower to get through. I also had to suspend my disbelief at how easy something was for her as it is a teensy bit ridiculous.
But that said, this is still a very enjoyable book and worth a read, especially if you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories.
Post-apocalyptic books are a dime a dozen and I've read many over the years, with varying degrees of success. When I first picked up My Name is Monster I was worried it would be nothing new, but it's actually a very interesting read that I struggled to put down. The beginning of the story isn't anything different with a lone survivor scavenging in an empty world (I kept picturing something similar to 28 Days Later minus the infected), but it's how it's written that really got me hooked. I really liked the writing style and the short chapters, and I think Monster's plight was interesting. My biggest issue was with the second part of the book. There's a lot of questioning around mother, creator etc which was fine, but I found it got a little rambling at times which made it slower to get through. I also had to suspend my disbelief at how easy something was for her as it is a teensy bit ridiculous.
But that said, this is still a very enjoyable book and worth a read, especially if you enjoy post-apocalyptic stories.
Merissa (12616 KP) rated Delirium (Reveler #6) in Books
May 8, 2021 (Updated Apr 12, 2023)
This series just keeps on getting better and better. It is intricate, involved, unique from my perspective and absolutely gripping. The concept behind these books is a fantasy, some might say, but Erin Kellison has made it a reality within her stories. They are all incredibly well-written with a smooth story and no plot holes.
Delirium is mainly about Harlen's new job in the Darkside Division which will mean absolutely nothing to you unless you've read the previous books in this series. You NEED to read these in order for it to make sense and to gain the most enjoyment out of them. There is major intrigue in this as no one is who they appear to be and you can't trust anyone.
This is gripping stuff and it does come complete with a cliffhanger ending so fair warning. If you want a short read that is paranormal but not full of vampires or shifters, then I can highly recommend this to you. Start at book 1 and gain the maximum enjoyment out of this magnificent series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 13, 2015
Delirium is mainly about Harlen's new job in the Darkside Division which will mean absolutely nothing to you unless you've read the previous books in this series. You NEED to read these in order for it to make sense and to gain the most enjoyment out of them. There is major intrigue in this as no one is who they appear to be and you can't trust anyone.
This is gripping stuff and it does come complete with a cliffhanger ending so fair warning. If you want a short read that is paranormal but not full of vampires or shifters, then I can highly recommend this to you. Start at book 1 and gain the maximum enjoyment out of this magnificent series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 13, 2015
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2310 KP) rated Murder at Sea in Books
May 31, 2023 (Updated Jun 21, 2023)
Set Sail for Eight Fun – and Deadly – Cruises
For this entry in the Destination Murders short story anthologies, the writers are sending their sleuths on cruises. Of course, no vacation in this series is without a hiccup and dead body or two. From Norway to Italy and Seattle, and from budget cruise lines to luxury yachts, the sleuths must deal with the unexpected when a killer decides that the sea is the perfect time to strike.
While there are a couple of stories that really stood out, every single one of these eight stories is enjoyable. I can’t think of one I didn’t like. Many of the authors included their series characters here, although you don’t have to know the characters to enjoy what happens. In fact, this reminded me that I really do need to read some of these author’s novels. These stories are long enough that, by the time you’ve read all eight, you’ve read the equivalent of a full-length novel, so there is plenty here to keep you entertained. Each story features a fun twist or two, and the solutions always satisfied. Whether you are looking for a great read for a summer vacation or want something to make you feel like you are on vacation, you’ll be glad you boarded this anthology.
While there are a couple of stories that really stood out, every single one of these eight stories is enjoyable. I can’t think of one I didn’t like. Many of the authors included their series characters here, although you don’t have to know the characters to enjoy what happens. In fact, this reminded me that I really do need to read some of these author’s novels. These stories are long enough that, by the time you’ve read all eight, you’ve read the equivalent of a full-length novel, so there is plenty here to keep you entertained. Each story features a fun twist or two, and the solutions always satisfied. Whether you are looking for a great read for a summer vacation or want something to make you feel like you are on vacation, you’ll be glad you boarded this anthology.
Ross (3284 KP) rated Daft Wee Stories in Books
Apr 16, 2018
Daft wee stories
I think there's something wrong with Limmy. Such a troubled mind. How he comes up with the stories contained here is mind-boggling.
This is a collection of short stories, all of which are less than a 10 minute read. All of them are very odd. Some are hilarious, some are interesting, others just truly bizarre. A number of the stories seem to be going nowhere and then just totally twist in the last few words. In others Limmy somehow has his character work through the logic of a stupid decision and somehow convince themselves to make that stupid decision
This collection is a good read, but don't expect it to be laugh out loud funny. This isn't your Michael Macintyre autobiography, it is a collection of daft wee stories, generally showing people getting themselves into weird situations or doing stupid things.
This is a collection of short stories, all of which are less than a 10 minute read. All of them are very odd. Some are hilarious, some are interesting, others just truly bizarre. A number of the stories seem to be going nowhere and then just totally twist in the last few words. In others Limmy somehow has his character work through the logic of a stupid decision and somehow convince themselves to make that stupid decision
This collection is a good read, but don't expect it to be laugh out loud funny. This isn't your Michael Macintyre autobiography, it is a collection of daft wee stories, generally showing people getting themselves into weird situations or doing stupid things.
Zuky the BookBum (15 KP) rated A Season Of Eden in Books
Mar 15, 2018
Lol, remember when I read books like this? I read this back in 2014.
-------------------
Please erase this from my memory! I found this to be slow, drab and boring. Where was the excitement, the thrill, the sex?! I was led to believe, by the book description, that this was an erotic book about a love affair between teacher and student, however when I got round to reading it, it was more like a very close awkward friendship between teacher and student.
Eden is a superficial, over dramatic, self obsessed character with no real teenage girl qualities about her and Mr Christian is just a weak man who falls in love with the most beautiful girl in school, what a shocker.
Conversations are short and unrealistic and lots of scenes are overly long and not needed to progress the plot at all. I regret spending my money on this.
-------------------
Please erase this from my memory! I found this to be slow, drab and boring. Where was the excitement, the thrill, the sex?! I was led to believe, by the book description, that this was an erotic book about a love affair between teacher and student, however when I got round to reading it, it was more like a very close awkward friendship between teacher and student.
Eden is a superficial, over dramatic, self obsessed character with no real teenage girl qualities about her and Mr Christian is just a weak man who falls in love with the most beautiful girl in school, what a shocker.
Conversations are short and unrealistic and lots of scenes are overly long and not needed to progress the plot at all. I regret spending my money on this.