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Colin Newman recommended Blue by Joni Mitchell in Music (curated)
Baz Luhrmann recommended War and Peace (1956) in Movies (curated)
Mutualism
Book
Mutualisms, interactions between two species that benefit both of them, have long captured the...
Journey Plan
Travel and Navigation
App
Ireland's National Journey Planner from the National Transport Authority is the only journey planner...
The Geek Who Came From The Cold: Surviving the Post - USSR Era on a Hollywood Diet
8.0
Rate It
Book
When the first wave of pirated videotapes from the west reached the USSR in the second half of the...
Merissa (13600 KP) rated Accidentally Summoned an Incubus (Briar Coven, #1) in Books
Mar 19, 2025
ACCIDENTALLY SUMMONED AN INCUBUS is the first book in the Briar Coven series. It deals with a serious subject but is also fun, sexy, and lighthearted.
Lex has refused to summon her incubus because she doesn't feel as though it's right. Lochran has waited for his summons but is close to giving up. So when Lex's magical house accidentally summons him, fun times are had.
There were so many parts of this that I enjoyed. Firstly, the not-so-nice part was handled well and in a manner fitting for the book. I can't say I was disappointed with how it ended either! Having Grandma as the head of the coven was a stroke of genius and I loved how she flipped between the two roles.
I hope that we see more of Billy and Jake too, but I'm guessing I will have to wait for that being as she is part of a pack. Maybe, maybe not?!
A great read with a multitude of brilliant characters, first and foremost being the House! I really wish I had one! Definitely recommended by me.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 19, 2025
Lex has refused to summon her incubus because she doesn't feel as though it's right. Lochran has waited for his summons but is close to giving up. So when Lex's magical house accidentally summons him, fun times are had.
There were so many parts of this that I enjoyed. Firstly, the not-so-nice part was handled well and in a manner fitting for the book. I can't say I was disappointed with how it ended either! Having Grandma as the head of the coven was a stroke of genius and I loved how she flipped between the two roles.
I hope that we see more of Billy and Jake too, but I'm guessing I will have to wait for that being as she is part of a pack. Maybe, maybe not?!
A great read with a multitude of brilliant characters, first and foremost being the House! I really wish I had one! Definitely recommended by me.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 19, 2025
LilyLovesIndie (123 KP) rated The Assassin's Mark in Books
Nov 5, 2018
Firstly I must thank Ebsworth not only for providing a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review, but also for having immense patience in waiting for me to provide him with that review. I must also point out how much I have enjoyed reading this book, even if I did struggle to get into the book at first.
There are several aspects which I feel to be major strengths in this book, particularly the characterisation. The assembled cast of characters are all extravagantly wonderful in their own ways, working well together and being entirely believable in the context of the text. In addition, it is worth commenting that they work as well individually as they do collectively, a great testament to Ebsworth's writing style. Jack Telford, as the main character, is a wonderful example of manhood and his cynicism in the tour breathes a breath of fresh air, prompting much thought by the reader on the matters discussed.
A further strength of this book is it's intricate and well developed plot. It is brilliantly put together, with mystery and thought provoking elements all combined with some humour and great history. I can't compliment enough the many well written twists and turns in this novel, whether it's sudden and unexpected deaths or mysterious figures appearing at odd intervals, there's always something that keeps the reader on the edge of their seats and thinking of what could be happening behind closed doors. It's a fantastic read for making you think about what you are reading, however, this is an occasional downside as it makes it a difficult book to read when you only have a few minutes spare.
Perhaps, for me, the best aspect of this book is the detailed research that shines through on every page. It is evident, even to someone with a limited knowledge of the Spanish Civil War, that there is much to learn in this book and that it has been incredibly well researched. Clearly, Ebsworth put much time into his research, and to his credit, as it adds an extra dimension to this story.
Finally, there is little else for me to say other than to recommend this book to all who enjoy history, a good mystery and a strong leading character.
There are several aspects which I feel to be major strengths in this book, particularly the characterisation. The assembled cast of characters are all extravagantly wonderful in their own ways, working well together and being entirely believable in the context of the text. In addition, it is worth commenting that they work as well individually as they do collectively, a great testament to Ebsworth's writing style. Jack Telford, as the main character, is a wonderful example of manhood and his cynicism in the tour breathes a breath of fresh air, prompting much thought by the reader on the matters discussed.
A further strength of this book is it's intricate and well developed plot. It is brilliantly put together, with mystery and thought provoking elements all combined with some humour and great history. I can't compliment enough the many well written twists and turns in this novel, whether it's sudden and unexpected deaths or mysterious figures appearing at odd intervals, there's always something that keeps the reader on the edge of their seats and thinking of what could be happening behind closed doors. It's a fantastic read for making you think about what you are reading, however, this is an occasional downside as it makes it a difficult book to read when you only have a few minutes spare.
Perhaps, for me, the best aspect of this book is the detailed research that shines through on every page. It is evident, even to someone with a limited knowledge of the Spanish Civil War, that there is much to learn in this book and that it has been incredibly well researched. Clearly, Ebsworth put much time into his research, and to his credit, as it adds an extra dimension to this story.
Finally, there is little else for me to say other than to recommend this book to all who enjoy history, a good mystery and a strong leading character.
Goddess in the Stacks (553 KP) rated Anna Dressed in Blood (Anna, #1) in Books
Oct 28, 2019
Another spooky story for October! On first glance, this one is very similar to Rin Chupeco's The Girl From The Well, but the plot is actually quite different. It's still human boy, murderous ghost girl, but here the girl is bound to her house and forced to murder whoever comes inside. Unraveling the WHY is a major part of the plot.
I'd say this one is actually less creepy than The Girl From The Well, though one of the evil things Cas encounters is VERY creepy. Both of these were just about the right amount of spooky for me. I'm actually REALLY disappointed that the sequel is proving very difficult to get my hands on! I had to request it through Marina, my statewide lending program, so I'm not sure when it will arrive. But I NEEEEEEED to know what happens to Cas and Anna after this book ends!
I think I liked the relationship between boy and ghost better in Girl From The Well; you could clearly see the draw for the ghost, and the connection between them. Not so much here; Cas is trying to kill Anna, but then they become fascinated with each other for...some reason? Anna isn't compelled to kill Cas, and that's never explained, and seems to be her main source of fascination with the boy.
Another major difference is that while Tark in Girl From The Well is rather isolationist and creeps out his peers, Cas seems to attract his peers, and quickly finds friends wherever he goes. He's typically used them as contacts in the past, not really valuing them as friends, but that changes with the events of this book, as he actually comes to know a couple of the kids at his new school and value their friendship. He even puts up with their jokes about being Ghostbusters and who would be which character, which is kind of hilarious.
Both stories are great; I'd say this one is slightly more light-hearted than Girl From The Well, but only slightly. There's still lots of creepy ghosts, life-or-death situations, gory deaths of side characters, and curses. It's another great spooky October book for scaredy-cats like me!
You can find all my reviews and more at http://goddessinthestacks.com
I'd say this one is actually less creepy than The Girl From The Well, though one of the evil things Cas encounters is VERY creepy. Both of these were just about the right amount of spooky for me. I'm actually REALLY disappointed that the sequel is proving very difficult to get my hands on! I had to request it through Marina, my statewide lending program, so I'm not sure when it will arrive. But I NEEEEEEED to know what happens to Cas and Anna after this book ends!
I think I liked the relationship between boy and ghost better in Girl From The Well; you could clearly see the draw for the ghost, and the connection between them. Not so much here; Cas is trying to kill Anna, but then they become fascinated with each other for...some reason? Anna isn't compelled to kill Cas, and that's never explained, and seems to be her main source of fascination with the boy.
Another major difference is that while Tark in Girl From The Well is rather isolationist and creeps out his peers, Cas seems to attract his peers, and quickly finds friends wherever he goes. He's typically used them as contacts in the past, not really valuing them as friends, but that changes with the events of this book, as he actually comes to know a couple of the kids at his new school and value their friendship. He even puts up with their jokes about being Ghostbusters and who would be which character, which is kind of hilarious.
Both stories are great; I'd say this one is slightly more light-hearted than Girl From The Well, but only slightly. There's still lots of creepy ghosts, life-or-death situations, gory deaths of side characters, and curses. It's another great spooky October book for scaredy-cats like me!
You can find all my reviews and more at http://goddessinthestacks.com
Sophia (Bookwyrming Thoughts) (530 KP) rated See No Evil (The Faded Trilogy, Book 2) in Books
Jan 23, 2020
See No Evil is the second novel in Chloe Miles' Faded trilogy, with the Chosen Ones trying to get Logan back after the events near the end of Faded. Logan, on the other hand, is trying to get Abigail to leave the Chosen Ones and join the Forces.
The story starts out with a few scenes from later in the book, and Miles blends the scenes together well enough that they flow smoothly they go together really well despite the fact between the few, snippets are taken out so as not to give away in spoilers. Unfortunately, while the prologue is written really well, this simply gives away the answer to Savannah's visions quickly, and possibly the entire plot as well.
See No Evil isn't too action-packed, but it's more than Faded and enough so it's enough so it's not too much (like Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick. That was WAY too much action). Savannah is stronger heroine than when we first met her back in the first novel, Faded. She's supportive while Abigail is grieving, even though Abigail is completely oblivious whose side Logan is on. In fact, Logan even gives himself away by accident! Yet while she's confused, she later brushes it aside.
The attacks have also gotten more creative in a way, though not by much. There are less doors shutting by themselves, no more windows being involved, but there are still just as much storms, winds, lightning, and flying furniture. The endings for those attacks tends to be the same as well the Forces run away. For a name like the Forces, you would have thought they were a force to be reckoned with. Legit name for a group who run away like cowards. :p
While I really enjoyed See No Evil, I feel as though something is missing. I feel very much as though Miles' writing is more for... middle grade due to the life lesson like writing. Something bad happens, the thing gets resolved, then the characters come together and talk about it.
-----------------------
Review copy provided by the author for review
Original Review posted at <a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-see-no-evil-by-chloe-miles.html">Bookwyrming Thoughts</a>
<a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cG5gfBqJVzk/VA5BIojjZ9I/AAAAAAAAD1g/7srLUfpAGEU/s1600/banner.png"; /></a>
The story starts out with a few scenes from later in the book, and Miles blends the scenes together well enough that they flow smoothly they go together really well despite the fact between the few, snippets are taken out so as not to give away in spoilers. Unfortunately, while the prologue is written really well, this simply gives away the answer to Savannah's visions quickly, and possibly the entire plot as well.
See No Evil isn't too action-packed, but it's more than Faded and enough so it's enough so it's not too much (like Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick. That was WAY too much action). Savannah is stronger heroine than when we first met her back in the first novel, Faded. She's supportive while Abigail is grieving, even though Abigail is completely oblivious whose side Logan is on. In fact, Logan even gives himself away by accident! Yet while she's confused, she later brushes it aside.
The attacks have also gotten more creative in a way, though not by much. There are less doors shutting by themselves, no more windows being involved, but there are still just as much storms, winds, lightning, and flying furniture. The endings for those attacks tends to be the same as well the Forces run away. For a name like the Forces, you would have thought they were a force to be reckoned with. Legit name for a group who run away like cowards. :p
While I really enjoyed See No Evil, I feel as though something is missing. I feel very much as though Miles' writing is more for... middle grade due to the life lesson like writing. Something bad happens, the thing gets resolved, then the characters come together and talk about it.
-----------------------
Review copy provided by the author for review
Original Review posted at <a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-see-no-evil-by-chloe-miles.html">Bookwyrming Thoughts</a>
<a href="http://bookwyrming-thoughts.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cG5gfBqJVzk/VA5BIojjZ9I/AAAAAAAAD1g/7srLUfpAGEU/s1600/banner.png"; /></a>
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated It: Chapter Two (2019) in Movies
Sep 15, 2019 (Updated Oct 25, 2019)
If it ain't broke
The second chapter of the extremely popular reboot of Stephen King's It is more of the same...and that's a good thing.
The first film feels like a ghost train, with creepy imagery, and well crafted jump scares that don't feel too cheap.
Chapter Two takes the same formula, and if anything, actually does more with it. Pennywise seams more brutal and unforgiving in his ways this time around.
Bill Skarsgård once again is great as Pennywise, sinister, whilst remaining weirdly charming, and sometimes sympathetic.
The fantastic child actors from the first film are present once again via flashbacks, and are just as likable, but as the bulk of Chapter Two is set 27 years later, these characters are now grown up and played by a whole host of incredibly well casted adults.
Bill Hader in particular is a highlight throughout. I always have time for James McAvoy as well, the guy is an hugely underrated actor.
The scares arrive thick and fast after a slow start where we're reintroduced to everyone - and they are mixed...some are genuinely unsettling (as is the tone for a lot of Chapter Two). The Paul Bunyun statue is a memorable moment, as is the creepy old lady scene from the trailers.
Some others are more tame, and some occasionally cartoony CGI take away from the scares themselves.
The climax of the film is pretty fun, as The Losers once again prepare to battle Pennywise, and it's once again, a truly memorable sequence.
The overall ending suffers slightly from Return of the King syndrome, and feels unessecarily drawn out at the end of an already lengthy film.
Another thing that didn't quite sit well with me was the opening scene - I understand that said scene is in the original novel, and it's a way of reintroducing us to Pennywise, but it felt out of place. Homophobia is still a huge issue in 2019, and there is nothing wrong with shouting about it. But the scene is cruel, and ultimately has no connection to the larger narrative.
Nevertheless, it's a very chilling and effective opening to the film.
The duo of new It films is modern horror done pretty well - unnerving and at times scary, whilst still being accessible to a wider audience.
Certainly worth watching them!
The first film feels like a ghost train, with creepy imagery, and well crafted jump scares that don't feel too cheap.
Chapter Two takes the same formula, and if anything, actually does more with it. Pennywise seams more brutal and unforgiving in his ways this time around.
Bill Skarsgård once again is great as Pennywise, sinister, whilst remaining weirdly charming, and sometimes sympathetic.
The fantastic child actors from the first film are present once again via flashbacks, and are just as likable, but as the bulk of Chapter Two is set 27 years later, these characters are now grown up and played by a whole host of incredibly well casted adults.
Bill Hader in particular is a highlight throughout. I always have time for James McAvoy as well, the guy is an hugely underrated actor.
The scares arrive thick and fast after a slow start where we're reintroduced to everyone - and they are mixed...some are genuinely unsettling (as is the tone for a lot of Chapter Two). The Paul Bunyun statue is a memorable moment, as is the creepy old lady scene from the trailers.
Some others are more tame, and some occasionally cartoony CGI take away from the scares themselves.
The climax of the film is pretty fun, as The Losers once again prepare to battle Pennywise, and it's once again, a truly memorable sequence.
The overall ending suffers slightly from Return of the King syndrome, and feels unessecarily drawn out at the end of an already lengthy film.
Another thing that didn't quite sit well with me was the opening scene - I understand that said scene is in the original novel, and it's a way of reintroducing us to Pennywise, but it felt out of place. Homophobia is still a huge issue in 2019, and there is nothing wrong with shouting about it. But the scene is cruel, and ultimately has no connection to the larger narrative.
Nevertheless, it's a very chilling and effective opening to the film.
The duo of new It films is modern horror done pretty well - unnerving and at times scary, whilst still being accessible to a wider audience.
Certainly worth watching them!