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Christine A. (965 KP) rated Keep You Close in Books
Jul 20, 2019
What would you do to protect your son? Would you betray your son or your country?
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
Keep You Close asks is "What would you do to protect your son. Would you betray your son or your country?" It is the second novel by Karen Cleveland. Her first, Need to Know, was a New York Times Bestseller.
Cleveland's background as a CIA analyst with most of her time spent working in counterterrorism helps bring authenticity to her work. While she writes fiction, she is able to get into the mindset of Stephanie Maddox, the head of the FBI's Internal Investigations division, so well it has a feel as if she is writing her memoir. Her debut novel's main character, Vivian Miller, works as a CIA counterintelligence analyst. Hmmm...
Maddox believes her near-perfect son is being framed and searches to discover the truth. Including CIA and FBI agents, makes choices made by Maddox more believable. In an environment whose very nature requires people to doubt and mistrust, she needs to decide whom she can trust and what to believe.
Keep You Close is a stand-alone novel. However, Need to Know's main character does appear in this novel. I did not realize this until I finished reading this novel.
Cleveland does not have any future works listed on Goodreads.
This 200-word review was published on Philomathinphila.com on 7/15/19.
Keep You Close asks is "What would you do to protect your son. Would you betray your son or your country?" It is the second novel by Karen Cleveland. Her first, Need to Know, was a New York Times Bestseller.
Cleveland's background as a CIA analyst with most of her time spent working in counterterrorism helps bring authenticity to her work. While she writes fiction, she is able to get into the mindset of Stephanie Maddox, the head of the FBI's Internal Investigations division, so well it has a feel as if she is writing her memoir. Her debut novel's main character, Vivian Miller, works as a CIA counterintelligence analyst. Hmmm...
Maddox believes her near-perfect son is being framed and searches to discover the truth. Including CIA and FBI agents, makes choices made by Maddox more believable. In an environment whose very nature requires people to doubt and mistrust, she needs to decide whom she can trust and what to believe.
Keep You Close is a stand-alone novel. However, Need to Know's main character does appear in this novel. I did not realize this until I finished reading this novel.
Cleveland does not have any future works listed on Goodreads.
This 200-word review was published on Philomathinphila.com on 7/15/19.
Bob Mann (459 KP) rated Destroyer (2018) in Movies
Jul 23, 2019
Nicole Kidman: a career best performance (2 more)
Slow burn build of characters, through flashback
Brilliant twist in the third act I didn't see coming
Gritty but unpredictable version of an oft-told tale
The plot is both familiar (think “The Departed” mixed with “Hell or High Water”) but at the same time intricate. Nicole Kidman plays police detective Erin Bell who’s in a bad place. She looks to be on her last legs through drink and drugs, but she is being propped up in her post by an understanding boss and a tolerant partner (who spends most of his time leaving “Where the hell are you?” voicemails).
Erin is in pursuit of a truly evil man – Silas (Toby Kebbell) – who is back after a long absence. Erin and Silas have a past that is only unfolded as the film evolves. (To say more would ruin what is an outstandingly well-constructed screenplay). Aside from the “day job”, what Erin also has to contend with her truly wayward 16 year old daughter Shelby (Jade Pettyjohn).
“Destroyer” seems to have had mixed reviews, but it is really one of the most gripping watches I’ve seen in 2019. A career best from Kidman (imho) and an intelligent, slow and thoughtful motion picture.
For the full graphical review please go to One Mann's Movies here - https://bob-the-movie-man.com/2019/07/20/one-manns-movies-dvd-review-destroyer-2019/
Erin is in pursuit of a truly evil man – Silas (Toby Kebbell) – who is back after a long absence. Erin and Silas have a past that is only unfolded as the film evolves. (To say more would ruin what is an outstandingly well-constructed screenplay). Aside from the “day job”, what Erin also has to contend with her truly wayward 16 year old daughter Shelby (Jade Pettyjohn).
“Destroyer” seems to have had mixed reviews, but it is really one of the most gripping watches I’ve seen in 2019. A career best from Kidman (imho) and an intelligent, slow and thoughtful motion picture.
For the full graphical review please go to One Mann's Movies here - https://bob-the-movie-man.com/2019/07/20/one-manns-movies-dvd-review-destroyer-2019/
Amy Christmas (171 KP) rated Northern Lights in Books
Jan 14, 2019
A child's perspective written well (1 more)
Imaginative but believable world
Absolutely loved it!
I loved this book, I have been meaning to read it for years and have finally gotten around to embracing all those childhood favourites.
We follow Lyra a girl from Oxford who is looked after by the scholars of Jordan college. We are introduced to her deamon 'Pan' (for short because I couldn't for the life of me work out how to say his name) and the workings of this world, of this child's world. Before being thrown as Lyra is into the politics and shenanigans of adults.
Lyra's character is a complex one she is a feisty intelligent girl but at times the way she behaved and is described to talk is unrealistic for a child her age, however these small things can be overlooked.
As I had only ever seen the movie before, which pales in comparison, I was shocked by the twist at the end of the book concerning Ms Coulter and Lord Asriel, and made me feel as if my journeying with Lyra through the north, meeting Iorek and the witches and the Gyptians had all been worth it and there was another adventure ahead, as it is not over at the end of this book rather it tells you loud and clear that you've barely begun... and I love it.
We follow Lyra a girl from Oxford who is looked after by the scholars of Jordan college. We are introduced to her deamon 'Pan' (for short because I couldn't for the life of me work out how to say his name) and the workings of this world, of this child's world. Before being thrown as Lyra is into the politics and shenanigans of adults.
Lyra's character is a complex one she is a feisty intelligent girl but at times the way she behaved and is described to talk is unrealistic for a child her age, however these small things can be overlooked.
As I had only ever seen the movie before, which pales in comparison, I was shocked by the twist at the end of the book concerning Ms Coulter and Lord Asriel, and made me feel as if my journeying with Lyra through the north, meeting Iorek and the witches and the Gyptians had all been worth it and there was another adventure ahead, as it is not over at the end of this book rather it tells you loud and clear that you've barely begun... and I love it.
ClareR (6106 KP) rated Notes on a Nervous Planet in Books
Jan 16, 2019
Modern life is a bit rubbish really.
For me, reading a Matt Haig book is like being told you're going to be OK for 300 or so pages. In this book, he discusses the effects of modern life on the mind and body of the modern human - and I'll agree with him that it's not all good. We need to step away from our screens, away from the constant pressure of social media and the news, and do something else, something more self nurturing. After reading this, I deleted all the news outlets that I followed on my Facebook account and put a screen time limit on my social media accounts. I look at the news once a day (or at least I try to!). They ARE addictive. I find myself reaching for my phone to check Facebook and Twitter all the time. I need to put my phone further away, and reach for a book instead!
I really liked the short chapters in this book, and the use of very short chapters which were like a little pep talk or an 'almost' meditation. I'm notoriously bad at reading non-fiction, so this was a really well planned book for people like me, purely because of the short chapters.
If you have concerns about modern life and it's stresses and strains, I would say that this is a good book to make you think about changes you could make.
I really liked the short chapters in this book, and the use of very short chapters which were like a little pep talk or an 'almost' meditation. I'm notoriously bad at reading non-fiction, so this was a really well planned book for people like me, purely because of the short chapters.
If you have concerns about modern life and it's stresses and strains, I would say that this is a good book to make you think about changes you could make.
Merissa (13816 KP) rated The Heart (Ice Dragons Hockey, #2) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
The Heart is the second book in the Ice Dragons Hockey series, and we reunite with Alex, aka Simba. Some time has passed since the end of The Code and the Dragons are on a losing streak. Alex calls for a meeting which goes on until early hours of the morning. On his way home, he and Ryan spot a car accident, and Alex is able to save both the baby and her father, although he is injured in the process. Jo is a firefighter on probation and the one who saves Alex.
This is a great story, with a humorous start in the kitchen between Jo and Alex. Jo has her own reasons for not wanting a relationship, the same as Alex does, but that doesn't stop them from being attracted to each other, and wanting more. There is an air of suspense with this book too as Jo has to deal with different situations all connected by a bomb. With additional stories involving Gooley, and the twins, there is definitely something here for everyone.
Very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt the reading flow, this is a wonderful addition to the series. Definitely recommended by me, and I'm looking forward to Gooley's story which is coming next.
* 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 is a great story, with a humorous start in the kitchen between Jo and Alex. Jo has her own reasons for not wanting a relationship, the same as Alex does, but that doesn't stop them from being attracted to each other, and wanting more. There is an air of suspense with this book too as Jo has to deal with different situations all connected by a bomb. With additional stories involving Gooley, and the twins, there is definitely something here for everyone.
Very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt the reading flow, this is a wonderful addition to the series. Definitely recommended by me, and I'm looking forward to Gooley's story which is coming next.
* 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!
Merissa (13816 KP) rated Enchanted Guardian (Camelot Reborn #2) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
Enchanted Guardian is the tale of two names that are familiar with anyone who has even the faintest inkling of the King Arthur legends - Lancelot du Lac and Nimueh. We last saw Nimueh in Enchanted Warrior when she helped Tamsin and Gawain. Subsequently, she is on the run from Morgan LaFaye. Even considering binding her magic to stop from being found, she nevertheless does one last discreet service to Arthur, and finds Lancelot's statue. Nimueh is planning on disappearing, but fate wants her and Lancelot to have a second chance, so the timing is always 'wrong'.
I love the mythology of Camelot, and by putting it into a modern setting, with the twist of the Fae losing their emotions, is simply wonderful reading! The story weaves itself around you, drawing you into a feud that is centuries old, but with fresh hurts.
It is incredibly well written, with a smooth and flowing pace. There are 'hot spots' where Lancelot and Nimueh spend time exploring each other again, but nothing too descriptive. With no editing or grammatical issues to contend with, I can definitely recommend this book to all fans of the legends of Camelot, or Fantasy/Romance fans.
* 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!
I love the mythology of Camelot, and by putting it into a modern setting, with the twist of the Fae losing their emotions, is simply wonderful reading! The story weaves itself around you, drawing you into a feud that is centuries old, but with fresh hurts.
It is incredibly well written, with a smooth and flowing pace. There are 'hot spots' where Lancelot and Nimueh spend time exploring each other again, but nothing too descriptive. With no editing or grammatical issues to contend with, I can definitely recommend this book to all fans of the legends of Camelot, or Fantasy/Romance fans.
* 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!
Merissa (13816 KP) rated Hidden Design, the Prophecy in Books
Dec 17, 2018
Hidden Design, the Prophecy is about an interior designer who finds out exactly what her customers want in a 'slightly' unorthodox manner. She gets called by her friend, Paul, who works at the FBI, to see if she can help with a missing child. This unlocks the door to more than she can possibly realise, and she tumbles headfirst into the rabbit hole.
This story is well written, with a smooth and flowing pace that builds up nicely to the climatic ending. With a series of shocks and twists to go through, there is something here for everyone. Funnily enough, the main male (who also has hints as the 'romance' lead) is the one person that she DOESN'T sleep with immediately. That would be the one thing for me - Mikki starts off by having sex with a couple or so 'special' clients. Then she is basically sleeping with anyone and everyone, with no willpower or inclination to say no; and still being surprised by her actions the following morning. Surely once she's found herself in this situation once or twice, she can realise and stop it from happening again?
Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The ending wraps everything up for this story, whilst keeping things open for the next. Certainly an interesting read, and definitely recommended by me.
* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This story is well written, with a smooth and flowing pace that builds up nicely to the climatic ending. With a series of shocks and twists to go through, there is something here for everyone. Funnily enough, the main male (who also has hints as the 'romance' lead) is the one person that she DOESN'T sleep with immediately. That would be the one thing for me - Mikki starts off by having sex with a couple or so 'special' clients. Then she is basically sleeping with anyone and everyone, with no willpower or inclination to say no; and still being surprised by her actions the following morning. Surely once she's found herself in this situation once or twice, she can realise and stop it from happening again?
Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The ending wraps everything up for this story, whilst keeping things open for the next. Certainly an interesting read, and definitely recommended by me.
* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated Stranger Things - Season 1 in TV
Jul 5, 2019 (Updated Jul 5, 2019)
Welcome to Hawkins
For me, the first season of Stranger Things is perfect, and I really, and truly mean that.
The acting is top notch, the young actors in particular are phenomenal, believable, hugely professional.
Winona Ryder is fantastic as Joyce Byers, a mother losing her mind over the disappearance of her son (or is she). David Harbour is possibly the most likeable TV character in recent history, as Hopper, and then we have a host of supporting characters who all have an individual impact on the overall narrative (Justice for Barb)
There is an impending sense of dread throughout, as the mystery of Wills disappearance is slowly unravelled, as the season flits effortlessly from 80s buddy adventure, to creature feature, to government conspiracy thriller - there are many plates being spun, and none of them fall off.
Some of the more tense scenes will have you on the edge of your seat (R.U.N.)
At times it even reminded of one of my absolute favourite shows ever - Twin Peaks.
The 80s setting is a smart move, shoeing in references to other media left, right and centre, without ever feeling to on the nose, topped off with a very retro low electronic soundtrack, the atmosphere is very well crafted.
All of these positives put together produce an astounding season of television, that is near impossible to watch in bits.
Easy 10/10 for me!
The acting is top notch, the young actors in particular are phenomenal, believable, hugely professional.
Winona Ryder is fantastic as Joyce Byers, a mother losing her mind over the disappearance of her son (or is she). David Harbour is possibly the most likeable TV character in recent history, as Hopper, and then we have a host of supporting characters who all have an individual impact on the overall narrative (Justice for Barb)
There is an impending sense of dread throughout, as the mystery of Wills disappearance is slowly unravelled, as the season flits effortlessly from 80s buddy adventure, to creature feature, to government conspiracy thriller - there are many plates being spun, and none of them fall off.
Some of the more tense scenes will have you on the edge of your seat (R.U.N.)
At times it even reminded of one of my absolute favourite shows ever - Twin Peaks.
The 80s setting is a smart move, shoeing in references to other media left, right and centre, without ever feeling to on the nose, topped off with a very retro low electronic soundtrack, the atmosphere is very well crafted.
All of these positives put together produce an astounding season of television, that is near impossible to watch in bits.
Easy 10/10 for me!
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated Unscripted in Books
Nov 4, 2019
Young line producer Danny Byrd is well-known in Hollywood for being someone who gets things done on time and under budget. But when his reputation takes a beating after his partner--and former best friend--makes off with their investors' money, Danny has but one chance to redeem himself and restore his ruined career.
LA lawyer Megan Pierce has sacrificed years of her life proving herself to her impossible bosses only to find herself disgusted at their snobbery and their specious business practices. When an opportunity to actually make a difference comes her way, she knows she has to grab it--even though she's not entirely clear what "it" is.
Danny and Megan are each other's best hope for redemption. What they never could have imagined was that they might also be each other's best hope for love.
Bestselling and award-winning author Davis Bunn takes you into the beating heart of Hollywood with two characters determined to thrive in a cutthroat business.
My Thoughts: An interesting story that revolves around LA and the movie industry. This novel deals with the subject of redemption, forgiveness learning to trust and starting over. Danny started life hard, growing up in foster homes, his best friend and his partner who ruins his career. Danny soon learns that there are people he can trust and that he can start over.
A very interesting read that I am sure readers will enjoy.
LA lawyer Megan Pierce has sacrificed years of her life proving herself to her impossible bosses only to find herself disgusted at their snobbery and their specious business practices. When an opportunity to actually make a difference comes her way, she knows she has to grab it--even though she's not entirely clear what "it" is.
Danny and Megan are each other's best hope for redemption. What they never could have imagined was that they might also be each other's best hope for love.
Bestselling and award-winning author Davis Bunn takes you into the beating heart of Hollywood with two characters determined to thrive in a cutthroat business.
My Thoughts: An interesting story that revolves around LA and the movie industry. This novel deals with the subject of redemption, forgiveness learning to trust and starting over. Danny started life hard, growing up in foster homes, his best friend and his partner who ruins his career. Danny soon learns that there are people he can trust and that he can start over.
A very interesting read that I am sure readers will enjoy.
Phil Leader (619 KP) rated Dragon (Dirk Pitt #10) in Books
Nov 12, 2019
At the end of the Second World War, America sends more than two atomic bombs to be dropped on Japan, but the other planes crashed. Fast forward fifty years and against a backdrop of US paranoia about the rise of Japanese industry, it seems that at least one of those missing bombs has been found.
Dirk Pitt must race against the clock to uncover the fate of the weapons and what use they may be put to. And not all of his foes are human.
It has to be said you generally know what you are going to get with a Cussler book and this is exactly what you get. There's a villainous bad guy who wants to destroy America, almost insurmountable odds, incredible chases and ingenious escapes.
The whole is equal to the sum of its parts, so this is a completely standard Pitt adventure novel, but there are many of those parts that aren't quite up to scratch. With the fall of the Soviet Union as the Enemy Nation, Cussler has transferred this status to Japan, but it doesn't really work very well and comes across as more than a little xenophobic. And the threats aren't particularly threatening. By this point the plot twists that made the earlier novels so intriguing are basically absent with very little happening that isn't signposted. So although it's a standard Cussler thriller, it isn't anywhere near being one of the best
Dirk Pitt must race against the clock to uncover the fate of the weapons and what use they may be put to. And not all of his foes are human.
It has to be said you generally know what you are going to get with a Cussler book and this is exactly what you get. There's a villainous bad guy who wants to destroy America, almost insurmountable odds, incredible chases and ingenious escapes.
The whole is equal to the sum of its parts, so this is a completely standard Pitt adventure novel, but there are many of those parts that aren't quite up to scratch. With the fall of the Soviet Union as the Enemy Nation, Cussler has transferred this status to Japan, but it doesn't really work very well and comes across as more than a little xenophobic. And the threats aren't particularly threatening. By this point the plot twists that made the earlier novels so intriguing are basically absent with very little happening that isn't signposted. So although it's a standard Cussler thriller, it isn't anywhere near being one of the best