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David McK (3540 KP) rated Battle Ground in Books
Apr 3, 2022
Cue the sound of my jaw hitting the floor, at roughly around the halfway mark ...
Entry number 17 (!) in Jim Butcher's 'Dresden Files' urban fantasy series, although - like many other reviewers/readers - I feel it is only fair to point out that this is, in essence, the 'back half' of the previous (Peace Talks).
By which I mean it picks up almost instantly after the ending of the previous - which, correct me if I'm wrong, is also the first time Butcher has done so? - with Harry, Karrin, Lara and co racing back to Chicage from Demonreach island just as the Fomor launch their all-out invasion.
Cue roughly 300 pages dedicated solely to how that plays out. And I mean 300 pages of action scene after action scene, with all the drivers for the plot laid back in Peace Talks. The other 100 pages or so are the aftermath of this; the fallout, if you will.
Truth be told, you do tend to get a bit punch drunk after a while, which is why I haven't rated this as highly as I usually would for a Dresden Files story.
Well, that, and there's also a shocking event round about the halfway mark, which nearly had my jaw hit the floor ...
I think Jim Butcher had used the title 'Changes' previously, for book number 12 in the series. If that title hadn't already been taken, and if he had been looking for another title for this, it would have fitted like a glove.
By which I mean it picks up almost instantly after the ending of the previous - which, correct me if I'm wrong, is also the first time Butcher has done so? - with Harry, Karrin, Lara and co racing back to Chicage from Demonreach island just as the Fomor launch their all-out invasion.
Cue roughly 300 pages dedicated solely to how that plays out. And I mean 300 pages of action scene after action scene, with all the drivers for the plot laid back in Peace Talks. The other 100 pages or so are the aftermath of this; the fallout, if you will.
Truth be told, you do tend to get a bit punch drunk after a while, which is why I haven't rated this as highly as I usually would for a Dresden Files story.
Well, that, and there's also a shocking event round about the halfway mark, which nearly had my jaw hit the floor ...
I think Jim Butcher had used the title 'Changes' previously, for book number 12 in the series. If that title hadn't already been taken, and if he had been looking for another title for this, it would have fitted like a glove.
Merissa (12557 KP) rated His Lordship's Master (His Lordship’s Mysteries #2) in Books
Apr 25, 2022 (Updated Jun 24, 2023)
HIS LORDSHIP'S MASTER is the second book in the His Lordship's Mysteries series, and we continue on our merry way with Alfie and Nick. Now, you 'could' read this as a standalone but, honestly? To get the most out of it, I would absolutely recommend you read it in order.
We leave the grime and corruption of London behind us as we travel to Scotland with Alfie and Nick. However, what we find there is cold, wet, and mysterious! A big old house, an urban legend of the 'Wicked Master', plus a murder or two, and you've got plenty to keep you occupied.
I loved how the relationship between Alfie and Nick just went so much deeper. Their love is true, even if they're not at it like rabbits all the time! (Understandable considering the time period).
There are so many layers woven into this story and I love it all. I won't go into detail as I don't want to ruin it for anyone else but nothing is as it seems. The closest I got was with a couple of the female characters. I was sure something was going on with them, but I did not imagine it would be what it was!
For a great historical mystery with some MM tenderness as an added bonus, I can absolutely recommend this.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Apr 22, 2022
We leave the grime and corruption of London behind us as we travel to Scotland with Alfie and Nick. However, what we find there is cold, wet, and mysterious! A big old house, an urban legend of the 'Wicked Master', plus a murder or two, and you've got plenty to keep you occupied.
I loved how the relationship between Alfie and Nick just went so much deeper. Their love is true, even if they're not at it like rabbits all the time! (Understandable considering the time period).
There are so many layers woven into this story and I love it all. I won't go into detail as I don't want to ruin it for anyone else but nothing is as it seems. The closest I got was with a couple of the female characters. I was sure something was going on with them, but I did not imagine it would be what it was!
For a great historical mystery with some MM tenderness as an added bonus, I can absolutely recommend this.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Apr 22, 2022
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997) in Movies
May 20, 2019 (Updated Jun 24, 2019)
An underrated sequel
And so it begins....
The Lost World is the first of a handful of sequels that don't even scratch the original, but I've always thought this was an underappreciated follow up.
As with the first, I first saw this when I was very young, and naturally thought it was incredible (as any 10 year old boy would), but unlike the first one, it doesn't hold up watching it now.
Starting with a huge positive though - I will always, and I mean always have time for Jeff Goldblum. He has always been one of my top actors and he returns to the role of Ian Malcolm with aplomb here.
Another welcome member of the cast is Pete Postlethwaite as the token bad guy, and of course Richard Attenborough returning as John Hammond.
There are also some great set pieces, namely the now infamous trailer-hanging-from-the-side-of-cliff scene. The tension built up here is reminiscent of the first T-Rex scene from the first film.
But on the flip side you have the last 30 minutes. The change of location is jarring and the urban setting highlights just how rough around the edges the special effects are.
I have to give kudos to Spielberg for attempting such an ambitious twist at the last minute, but it doesn't quite work, and gives way to a huge plot hole involving the fates of the ship crew.
I also find myself not really caring about the rest of the cast, which is a shame, as I tend to enjoy Julianne Moore.
Overall - it's not terrible, it's not great, but enjoy this sequel for what it is as it's down hill from here!
The Lost World is the first of a handful of sequels that don't even scratch the original, but I've always thought this was an underappreciated follow up.
As with the first, I first saw this when I was very young, and naturally thought it was incredible (as any 10 year old boy would), but unlike the first one, it doesn't hold up watching it now.
Starting with a huge positive though - I will always, and I mean always have time for Jeff Goldblum. He has always been one of my top actors and he returns to the role of Ian Malcolm with aplomb here.
Another welcome member of the cast is Pete Postlethwaite as the token bad guy, and of course Richard Attenborough returning as John Hammond.
There are also some great set pieces, namely the now infamous trailer-hanging-from-the-side-of-cliff scene. The tension built up here is reminiscent of the first T-Rex scene from the first film.
But on the flip side you have the last 30 minutes. The change of location is jarring and the urban setting highlights just how rough around the edges the special effects are.
I have to give kudos to Spielberg for attempting such an ambitious twist at the last minute, but it doesn't quite work, and gives way to a huge plot hole involving the fates of the ship crew.
I also find myself not really caring about the rest of the cast, which is a shame, as I tend to enjoy Julianne Moore.
Overall - it's not terrible, it's not great, but enjoy this sequel for what it is as it's down hill from here!
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Demons in the Big Easy in Books
May 22, 2019
Adventurous in her youth, Cassandra built gateways between Domhan and its parallel realm of Earth. Now shes too old for that kind of thing. But something is making it easier for demons to pass into Domhan. Not only that, but their behavior becomes inexplicable: whenever Cassandra banishes one, it laughs at her rather than resists, and it promises it will soon devour her essence and that of every resident of her small village. Cassandra is certain such a thing is impossible, for strong wards protect her village.
But then Cassandras granddaughter Aine falls through an unstable gateway. Cassandra is the only one within a hundred miles capable of creating a gateway and bringing Aine back. Despite her aching joints, Cassandra goes after her, and the gateway lands her in New Orleans. But something goes wrong with her tracking spell, which indicates Aine exists in four different places at once. As Cassandra struggles to find the true location of her granddaughter in the Big Easy, she discovers the source of the demons confidence. Now, with an unlikely pair of alliesher timid granddaughter and a homeless man who may or may not be crazyshe has to not only save her granddaughter but also prevent both Domhan and Earth from being overrun by demons.
I really enjoyed this novella.
Demons in the Big Easy is a short urban fantasy novella following an elderly witch Cassandra as she searches for her lost granddaughter across dimensions.
I think this story has more to tell and would be first in line if the author decided to expand on it.
This story had a perfect mix of mystery, bad guys and horror. I could not believe the end, I never would have thought who the head demon was.
I am hoping for a sequel!
But then Cassandras granddaughter Aine falls through an unstable gateway. Cassandra is the only one within a hundred miles capable of creating a gateway and bringing Aine back. Despite her aching joints, Cassandra goes after her, and the gateway lands her in New Orleans. But something goes wrong with her tracking spell, which indicates Aine exists in four different places at once. As Cassandra struggles to find the true location of her granddaughter in the Big Easy, she discovers the source of the demons confidence. Now, with an unlikely pair of alliesher timid granddaughter and a homeless man who may or may not be crazyshe has to not only save her granddaughter but also prevent both Domhan and Earth from being overrun by demons.
I really enjoyed this novella.
Demons in the Big Easy is a short urban fantasy novella following an elderly witch Cassandra as she searches for her lost granddaughter across dimensions.
I think this story has more to tell and would be first in line if the author decided to expand on it.
This story had a perfect mix of mystery, bad guys and horror. I could not believe the end, I never would have thought who the head demon was.
I am hoping for a sequel!
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Piece By Piece - Single by Bria Lee in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Bria Lee is a rising New York-based singer-songwriter from Providence, Rhode Island. Not too long ago, she released an urban-pop ballad, entitled, “Piece By Piece”.
“Wake up, paint my smile on, but nothing feels the same. I’m too pale, my makeup’s stale, the sky’s a little bit grey. I heard from a good friend that you are doing fine. But still here, ash and cigarettes, and empty bottles of wine. But how did I get here? What do I do when everything always comes back to you?” – lyrics
‘Piece By Piece’ is the follow-up single to Bria Lee’s breakout tune, entitled, “One Shot”, featuring Fat Joe.
The likable tune contains a sad-girl storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with sentimental elements.
“‘Piece By Piece’ is a song to help you realize that being broken is not the only option. It’s about taking the time to look inward and trying to put the pieces of your life back together. So that when you fall in love with the right person they can see the whole you. This song is about being transparent, speaking your heart, and remembering your voice.” – Bria Lee
Bria Lee grew up in a musical household. Her mother sang and played the guitar. Her father was fascinated with artists and musicians and urged her to not let her talents go to waste.
At the age of 17, she registered at New York’s Manhattan School of Music and studied classical piano.
Shortly afterward, she found herself with an 80-hour grind, waiting tables and working at a pizzeria, while singing on the NYC jazz scene.
Eventually, her hard work paid off after a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at a record label showcase, which opened the door to her signing with Republic Records.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/bria-lee-piece-by-piece/
“Wake up, paint my smile on, but nothing feels the same. I’m too pale, my makeup’s stale, the sky’s a little bit grey. I heard from a good friend that you are doing fine. But still here, ash and cigarettes, and empty bottles of wine. But how did I get here? What do I do when everything always comes back to you?” – lyrics
‘Piece By Piece’ is the follow-up single to Bria Lee’s breakout tune, entitled, “One Shot”, featuring Fat Joe.
The likable tune contains a sad-girl storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with sentimental elements.
“‘Piece By Piece’ is a song to help you realize that being broken is not the only option. It’s about taking the time to look inward and trying to put the pieces of your life back together. So that when you fall in love with the right person they can see the whole you. This song is about being transparent, speaking your heart, and remembering your voice.” – Bria Lee
Bria Lee grew up in a musical household. Her mother sang and played the guitar. Her father was fascinated with artists and musicians and urged her to not let her talents go to waste.
At the age of 17, she registered at New York’s Manhattan School of Music and studied classical piano.
Shortly afterward, she found herself with an 80-hour grind, waiting tables and working at a pizzeria, while singing on the NYC jazz scene.
Eventually, her hard work paid off after a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at a record label showcase, which opened the door to her signing with Republic Records.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/bria-lee-piece-by-piece/
CarlaM (53 KP) rated Devil's Cry : Shade of Devil Book 2 in Books
Dec 6, 2019
I'd Follow This Devil Anywhere!
What a great Continuation of Sorin's story.
Gosh! I loved every minute of this book. Shayne has a true talent for making us fall In love with his main characters. Sorin Is no different! He is powerful, charismatic and Sexy with a very human side that makes him extremely endearing for a Vamp. You either want to bed him or be his best mate and frankly, when you see who he hangs out with you will be biting at the bit ... or the neck ...to join the gang!
The story continues with Sorin's quest to take Down Dracula, but straight of the bat several new threats make themselves known, the least of them the Witches who complicate matters For Sorin and add some great action scenes to this story.
The emotional and sexual build up in this book creates a lovely tension that sits nicely in between the action and all the story driven sequences and I found that I flitted from emotion to emotion. From feeling sad for his losses, Angry that he was wronged, Affection for his love Interests.... and a couple of spicy scenes that made me sit up a little straighter in my seat.
All In all I really enjoyed this book. It had a feeling of familiarity as it very much reminds me of a classic vampire tale.... but then it surprises you with some lovely new mysteries.
I really can't recommend this book enough!
And Can't wait to see were the next book takes me!
Gosh! I loved every minute of this book. Shayne has a true talent for making us fall In love with his main characters. Sorin Is no different! He is powerful, charismatic and Sexy with a very human side that makes him extremely endearing for a Vamp. You either want to bed him or be his best mate and frankly, when you see who he hangs out with you will be biting at the bit ... or the neck ...to join the gang!
The story continues with Sorin's quest to take Down Dracula, but straight of the bat several new threats make themselves known, the least of them the Witches who complicate matters For Sorin and add some great action scenes to this story.
The emotional and sexual build up in this book creates a lovely tension that sits nicely in between the action and all the story driven sequences and I found that I flitted from emotion to emotion. From feeling sad for his losses, Angry that he was wronged, Affection for his love Interests.... and a couple of spicy scenes that made me sit up a little straighter in my seat.
All In all I really enjoyed this book. It had a feeling of familiarity as it very much reminds me of a classic vampire tale.... but then it surprises you with some lovely new mysteries.
I really can't recommend this book enough!
And Can't wait to see were the next book takes me!
Matthew Krueger (10051 KP) rated Black Christmas (1974) in Movies
Dec 11, 2019
Answer The Phone
With anethor remake coming out this friday, and that i already reviewed the 2006 remake. In going back to the oringal, were it alll started from. So lets take a little trip back to 1974.
Inspired by the urban legend "The babysitter and the man upstairs" and a series of murders that took place in the Westmount section of Montreal, Quebec, Moore wrote the screenplay under the title Stop Me.
The Plot: As winter break begins, a group of sorority sisters, including Jess (Olivia Hussey) and the often inebriated Barb (Margot Kidder), begin to receive anonymous, lascivious phone calls. Initially, Barb eggs the caller on, but stops when he responds threateningly. Soon, Barb's friend Claire (Lynne Griffin) goes missing from the sorority house, and a local adolescent girl is murdered, leading the girls to suspect a serial killer is on the loose. But no one realizes just how near the culprit is.
Margot Kidder remembered shooting the film as being "fun. I really bonded with Andrea Martin, filming in Toronto and Ontario. Olivia Hussey was a bit of an odd one. She was obsessed with the idea of falling in love with Paul McCartney through her psychic. We were a little hard on her for things like that.
Black Christmas eventually gained a cult following and is notable for being one of the earliest slasher films. It went on to inspire other slasher films, the biggest one of all being John Carpenter's Halloween (which was apparently inspired by Clark suggesting what a Black Christmas sequel would be like).
Black Christmas has been included multiple lists in various media outlets as one of the greatest horror films ever made. The film ranked No. 87 on Bravo's The 100 Scariest Movie Moments.
A overall classic slasher horror movie based around a hoilday.
Inspired by the urban legend "The babysitter and the man upstairs" and a series of murders that took place in the Westmount section of Montreal, Quebec, Moore wrote the screenplay under the title Stop Me.
The Plot: As winter break begins, a group of sorority sisters, including Jess (Olivia Hussey) and the often inebriated Barb (Margot Kidder), begin to receive anonymous, lascivious phone calls. Initially, Barb eggs the caller on, but stops when he responds threateningly. Soon, Barb's friend Claire (Lynne Griffin) goes missing from the sorority house, and a local adolescent girl is murdered, leading the girls to suspect a serial killer is on the loose. But no one realizes just how near the culprit is.
Margot Kidder remembered shooting the film as being "fun. I really bonded with Andrea Martin, filming in Toronto and Ontario. Olivia Hussey was a bit of an odd one. She was obsessed with the idea of falling in love with Paul McCartney through her psychic. We were a little hard on her for things like that.
Black Christmas eventually gained a cult following and is notable for being one of the earliest slasher films. It went on to inspire other slasher films, the biggest one of all being John Carpenter's Halloween (which was apparently inspired by Clark suggesting what a Black Christmas sequel would be like).
Black Christmas has been included multiple lists in various media outlets as one of the greatest horror films ever made. The film ranked No. 87 on Bravo's The 100 Scariest Movie Moments.
A overall classic slasher horror movie based around a hoilday.
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