| Reviews 1 to 25 of 33 |
Show
results per page.
|
Page: |
Helpful Score: 2
this is my favorite book of 2025 and who knows how far back. i was blown away by all of it. the narration was magnificent. the level of nature took me right there. in spite of the fact that this is a sad scary story about climate change, it is also a brilliant story about nature and resilience and the beauty that surrounds us, EVERY SINGLE DAY. and this goes for humans, too. might we stop and value our relationships more. might we care more tenderly for our loved ones. might we speak up and openly instead of hiding. so many things to ponder and take away. i love armchair adventure and this book really fits the bill. the characters are rich and complex. there is something for everyone but it is especially a book for readers who care about the earth and about our tender hearts. read this book!
Booster Shots: The Urgent Lessons of Measles and the Uncertain Future of Children's Health
Author:
Genres: Health, Fitness & Dieting, Science & Math, Medical Books
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: Health, Fitness & Dieting, Science & Math, Medical Books
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
Booster Shots contains an amazing amount of information for a book that is a bit more than 200 pages. Dr. Ratner describes his own experience as a researcher and pediatrician specializing in infectious diseases, and personalizes the diseases by describing particular patients. He gives a chapter-long history of how measels was determined to spread from person to person, and covers the history of vaccine development. (To be honest I skimmed those chapters, but readers interested in the history of medicine and clinical research will enjoy them).
As Dr. Ratner gives a timeline of how the number of measels cases in the US waxes and wanes, it is clear that there is a correlation with what political party was in power. However, the author is careful to not make this a political book and instead describes the state of the country at the time, gives the numbers, then lets the reader draw their own conclusion. I think this is a positive thing as hopefully more people will read this book and be receptive to its contents since it is not explicitly partisan.
The book devotes a lot of time to vaccine hesitancy, and shows that concerns (both valid and nonsense) about vaccines have been deliberately introduced to vulnerable and susceptible groups, which of course results in outbreaks within these groups. He does not hesitate to call out those in his own profession such as Andrew Wakefield (though thankfully Wakefield is not in the same profession anymore), celebrities, and leaders of the anti-vax movement for spreading misinformation and disinformation. Quite a bit is said about RFK, Jr. and his courting of Trump during Trump's first presidancy.... well, here we are.
Since COVID-19 vaccines have become an emotionally charged issue for many, with social media fanning the flames. Dr. Ratner gives examples of how to combat vaccine information and increase vaccine uptake both on a personal level (spoiler alert: threatening to report someone to social services for child neglect on Facebook is not constructive, so instead have a series of conversations always coming from a place of empathy and understanding that the parent is doing what they understand to be necessary to keep the child healthy), and through programs run by the state and federal governments and NGOs.
This book is (sadly) very timely, and is written in a way that is accessible to a general audience. Highly recommended.
As Dr. Ratner gives a timeline of how the number of measels cases in the US waxes and wanes, it is clear that there is a correlation with what political party was in power. However, the author is careful to not make this a political book and instead describes the state of the country at the time, gives the numbers, then lets the reader draw their own conclusion. I think this is a positive thing as hopefully more people will read this book and be receptive to its contents since it is not explicitly partisan.
The book devotes a lot of time to vaccine hesitancy, and shows that concerns (both valid and nonsense) about vaccines have been deliberately introduced to vulnerable and susceptible groups, which of course results in outbreaks within these groups. He does not hesitate to call out those in his own profession such as Andrew Wakefield (though thankfully Wakefield is not in the same profession anymore), celebrities, and leaders of the anti-vax movement for spreading misinformation and disinformation. Quite a bit is said about RFK, Jr. and his courting of Trump during Trump's first presidancy.... well, here we are.
Since COVID-19 vaccines have become an emotionally charged issue for many, with social media fanning the flames. Dr. Ratner gives examples of how to combat vaccine information and increase vaccine uptake both on a personal level (spoiler alert: threatening to report someone to social services for child neglect on Facebook is not constructive, so instead have a series of conversations always coming from a place of empathy and understanding that the parent is doing what they understand to be necessary to keep the child healthy), and through programs run by the state and federal governments and NGOs.
This book is (sadly) very timely, and is written in a way that is accessible to a general audience. Highly recommended.
Rot: An Imperial History of the Irish Famine
Author:
Genres: History, Nonfiction, Uncategorized
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: History, Nonfiction, Uncategorized
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
The Irish Potato Famine (1845-1851) devastated Ireland, resulting in over one million famine-related deaths and the emigration of over 1.5 million people to places like America, Britain, and Australia. Meanwhile, Britain, located just across the Irish Sea, prospered. Listening to my late uncles tell it, this was cold-hearted, premeditated murder.
The potato blight in Ireland was caused by the water mold "Phytophthora infestans," brought over from North America. The potato crop was essential to Ireland, both for sustenance and economic stability, and the blight had cataclysmic consequences. Absentee landlords found it profitable to evict people from land they could no longer afford to rent. "Unroofing houses" was a common practice, where cottage walls and roofs were torn down or burned in order to enforce the expulsion. Scores of people had to live on the side of the road or in makeshift lean-tos, begging or stealing to avoid starvation. For many, the only option left was to leave Ireland on overcrowded "coffin ships."
Padraic X. Scanlan's book, "Rot: An Imperial History of the Irish Famine," investigates the origins of the devastating Irish Famine. The disaster was not caused by a lack of food, as Ireland exported vast quantities of grain, meat, and dairy-- more than enough to feed its starving population. Moreover, these exports were sold at very low prices set by the British-- barely enough to cover rent for most. Combined with the potato blight, the British policy of laissez-faire--the idea that the economy should be left to self-regulate-- worsened the effects of the famine.
There were efforts to help, as this was a world-wide embarrassment. Soup kitchens and workhouses were established, yet the aid was conditional. The Whig Party insisted that relief be tied to labor requirements as the Irish would take the charity and never pivot to improving their situation.
There are so many quotations by British leaders showing an utter disdain for the Irish. Initially, many believed the Irish were exaggerating their poverty. "Britain was industrious, Ireland was lazy." An ugly belief was espoused over and over, that the famine was doing its job. The economist Thomas Robert Malthus said that nature, in such a crisis, would restore the balance between population and food supply through "famine... the last, the most dreadful resource of nature." "The Irish, he concluded, could not yet be taught; until they starved, they would not learn."
As the famine continued, and one policy after another did little to resolve the disorder and desolation, many in the government became nihilistic, arguing that it would be better to do nothing to slow the famine or palliate the suffering of the Irish poor--to "let the evil work itself out like a consuming fire." Ireland was not the only country to suffer from Britain's laissez-faire belief. India lost tens of millions of lives in repeated droughts and famines. Here again, authorities "...convinced themselves that overly heroic exertions against the natural laws of the economy were worse than no effort at all."
"Rot" shows that while the Irish Famine was not caused by the British, their mishandling of it was due to misplaced faith in the market and an age-old mistrust of the intelligence and character of the Irish. The suffering described was horrific and would not have been tolerated or addressed in the same manner in Britain.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The potato blight in Ireland was caused by the water mold "Phytophthora infestans," brought over from North America. The potato crop was essential to Ireland, both for sustenance and economic stability, and the blight had cataclysmic consequences. Absentee landlords found it profitable to evict people from land they could no longer afford to rent. "Unroofing houses" was a common practice, where cottage walls and roofs were torn down or burned in order to enforce the expulsion. Scores of people had to live on the side of the road or in makeshift lean-tos, begging or stealing to avoid starvation. For many, the only option left was to leave Ireland on overcrowded "coffin ships."
Padraic X. Scanlan's book, "Rot: An Imperial History of the Irish Famine," investigates the origins of the devastating Irish Famine. The disaster was not caused by a lack of food, as Ireland exported vast quantities of grain, meat, and dairy-- more than enough to feed its starving population. Moreover, these exports were sold at very low prices set by the British-- barely enough to cover rent for most. Combined with the potato blight, the British policy of laissez-faire--the idea that the economy should be left to self-regulate-- worsened the effects of the famine.
There were efforts to help, as this was a world-wide embarrassment. Soup kitchens and workhouses were established, yet the aid was conditional. The Whig Party insisted that relief be tied to labor requirements as the Irish would take the charity and never pivot to improving their situation.
There are so many quotations by British leaders showing an utter disdain for the Irish. Initially, many believed the Irish were exaggerating their poverty. "Britain was industrious, Ireland was lazy." An ugly belief was espoused over and over, that the famine was doing its job. The economist Thomas Robert Malthus said that nature, in such a crisis, would restore the balance between population and food supply through "famine... the last, the most dreadful resource of nature." "The Irish, he concluded, could not yet be taught; until they starved, they would not learn."
As the famine continued, and one policy after another did little to resolve the disorder and desolation, many in the government became nihilistic, arguing that it would be better to do nothing to slow the famine or palliate the suffering of the Irish poor--to "let the evil work itself out like a consuming fire." Ireland was not the only country to suffer from Britain's laissez-faire belief. India lost tens of millions of lives in repeated droughts and famines. Here again, authorities "...convinced themselves that overly heroic exertions against the natural laws of the economy were worse than no effort at all."
"Rot" shows that while the Irish Famine was not caused by the British, their mishandling of it was due to misplaced faith in the market and an age-old mistrust of the intelligence and character of the Irish. The suffering described was horrific and would not have been tolerated or addressed in the same manner in Britain.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Helpful Score: 1
Another wonderful beach house story by this author. I love her stories about families , relationships , the beach, and turtle hatchings. The Turtle ladies are at it again, This is the continuing story of Toy and Cara from some of the previous beach books, but it certainly is a stand alone book. This is a story about the South Carolina aquarium. turtles nesting on the beach, Toy's daughter, Little Lovie, who was just born in the last story I read, is now five years old, and Cara struggling to get pregnant. Monroe give such heart and soul to her characters, and she makes you feel like you are right there in the story.
The House of a Hundred Whispers
Author:
Genres: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Horror
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Horror
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
I found this to be a gratifying read. Had some quite spooky elements and an interesting story line. I liked how it put a bit of history in it. I found the parts about the priest holes and how they were hidden in some houses very interesting. It went into detail about a man named Nicholas Owen who specialized in building these priest holes. After I was done with the story I had to research this as I had never heard of these hidden places. That put me on another journey learning about them. Love when that happens.
Murder on Canvas (International Thrillers & Mysteries, Bk 1)
Author:
Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Book Type: Paperback
Helpful Score: 1
What an unusual murder mystery. I like visiting art museums, and I really didn't know much about art restoration. It was interesting and I learned quite a bit. I enjoyed the characters, the places (London, Paris, Geneva, Moscow, New York), and the mystery. The story definitely flows well, but because I had too many days in-between readings, I sometimes got confused and had to look back to refresh my memory. My suggestion don't let too many days pass before you read the next chapter.
Helpful Score: 1
Stay, Girl by Angelica R. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The heartwarming story of the healing power of love.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The heartwarming story of the healing power of love.
Stay, Girl is a wonderfully heartwarming story of 12-year-old Bet and a fostered beagle named Penny set in 1953 California's Central Valley. While timeless and with universal elements, Bet and Penny's story comes alive in this nostalgic setting of a simpler time and place. Their tale is one of two wounded creatures re-discovering kindness, love, and safety. I couldn't put it down.
Bet is a determined, capable 12-year-old, conditioned much too soon to depending on herself for her most basic needs. When her mother passes away, she takes off from her home in Sacramento and her abusive stepfather and makes her way, by foot, to her mother's brother's home in Amberfields, California, quite some distance away. Bet's plan for escape had been to join a friend working in an Idaho lumber camp, but she'd promised her mother on her deathbed that she'd go to Uncle Earl's, and she always kept her promises.We can only imagine what Bet expected Uncle Earl to be like, considering her experiences with the adults, especially men, in her brief life, but Earl is not that. A former Navy cook, now working at the small town's diner, he's a giving and gentle soul and the caretaker for the county for three rescued dogs. A recent addition to his home is a very sick red and white beagle that had been removed from a deplorable situation. Bet feels a kinship with the small, frightened dog she names Penny, and it becomes her goal to heal her and become Penny's "person."
The plot covers the summer of 1953, and Bet and Penny's slow but steady recovery as both become a part of their new home and new community, seeing a side of people they had been denied up to this point in their lives. The author's vivid descriptions of the setting drew me in so completely I could almost feel the heat and hear the sounds of that long-ago summer, a time when telephones, television, and cars weren't a part of every household yet. Bet's story was compelling, with plot twists that changed its trajectory in unexpected ways and kept me glued to its pages.I recommend STAY, GIRL to readers of historical fiction, especially those who enjoy coming-of-age stories.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy through WOW! Women On Writing Book Tours.
Donna C. (g-ma) reviewed on + 3182 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I'm not sure how to rate this one? When I read book 3 it started out with them already married and I thought 'did I miss something in the last book?', well no I didn't so when I saw this one I thought 'okay here's the forgotten story'
Well, 'forgotten' is the key word--this book isn't worth the paper used to print it or the 30 minutes it takes to read it
It was just silly silly silly
Well, 'forgotten' is the key word--this book isn't worth the paper used to print it or the 30 minutes it takes to read it
It was just silly silly silly
Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World's Most Dangerous Man
Author:
Genre: Biographies & Memoirs
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genre: Biographies & Memoirs
Book Type: Hardcover
boookmouse reviewed on
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent and extremely relevant right now.. Definite must read!
Helpful Score: 1
T.C. Boyle is a writer I have admired for many years. I have read and enjoyed several of his novels and short story collections and I always look forward to reading more of him. East Is East is, at the beginning, a somewhat humorous look at what happens when a 20-year old Japanese seaman jumps ship off the coast of Georgia in hopes of finding acceptance among the many races that abound in America. His name is Hiro and he has been scorned and ridiculed in Japan because he is a half-breed. His father was an American hippie who abandoned him and his mother when he was a baby. Hiro doesn't really know much about America other than what he has learned from TV, movies and pop music but he feels if he can make his way to a large American city such as "The City of Brotherly Love", he'll be able to fit in with the masses. But ultimately, Hiro is in trouble when he first sets foot on Topanga Island off the Georgia coast. He is hungry and alone and when he approaches a poor black resident cooking up some oysters, he doesn't expect to be attacked and the results leave Hiro on the lam from the law and the INS. He does finally find food at the cottage of a woman writer who is in residence at an artists' colony and she takes pity on him. But of course, this doesn't last and Hiro becomes the target of most everyone on the island.
When I first started reading this, I felt it had the feel of a Carl Hiaasen novel, full of humor and characters that deserved to be put in their place. Hiro was a character that you commiserate with and hope that he will be able to live his dreams. Another character, Ruth, the woman who befriends Hiro is also someone to root for. But the novel definitely has a darker side and is a harsh look at how we view outsiders. This story reminded me somewhat of one of my favorite Boyle novels, The Tortilla Curtain, which was also about an oppressed man who is on the run in America because he is from another culture and is misunderstood. Boyle is really a great wordsmith and I'll be looking forward to more.
When I first started reading this, I felt it had the feel of a Carl Hiaasen novel, full of humor and characters that deserved to be put in their place. Hiro was a character that you commiserate with and hope that he will be able to live his dreams. Another character, Ruth, the woman who befriends Hiro is also someone to root for. But the novel definitely has a darker side and is a harsh look at how we view outsiders. This story reminded me somewhat of one of my favorite Boyle novels, The Tortilla Curtain, which was also about an oppressed man who is on the run in America because he is from another culture and is misunderstood. Boyle is really a great wordsmith and I'll be looking forward to more.
Donna C. (g-ma) reviewed on + 3182 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Wow what a piece of trash
If you want to read porn here's a start, the story just isn't very good at all and it has so much trashy sex in it and I mean not just a page or two I mean one sex encounter can take 20 pages?
I had no idea what kind of author this is but I'll get no more!
If you want to read porn here's a start, the story just isn't very good at all and it has so much trashy sex in it and I mean not just a page or two I mean one sex encounter can take 20 pages?
I had no idea what kind of author this is but I'll get no more!
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, History
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, History
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book, very seldom do I find a book that I can't put down. This was one of them. A real life story of adventure, loyalty, betrayal, and unspeakable hardships. Author David Grann takes you on the adventure of a lifetime
Retelling the stories of the sailors on board the British man o war Wager. 5 stars from me, do not miss this one.
Retelling the stories of the sailors on board the British man o war Wager. 5 stars from me, do not miss this one.
Louis Pasteur: The Life and Legacy of the Legendary French Scientist Recognized as the Father of Microbiology
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, Science & Math, Medical Books
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, Science & Math, Medical Books
Book Type: Paperback
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed reading about Louis Pasteur, the father of microbiology and pasteurization. It was fascinating to learn that Louis was a wastrel in his younger years and didn't get serious about his studies later in his academic career. However, he made up for lost time with the work he initiated later.
The most interesting part of the story occurred after his death. Pasteur demanded that his private journals never be given to the scientific community after his death. However, many years later, one of the remaining Pasteur family members gave them to the French National Library in 1970, which started a firestorm. It seems that Pasteur tinkered with his findings. Pasteur overstated some of his conclusions and lied about others. He also stole credit from others, claiming it was his work.
Because of these journals, Pasteur's reputation was seriously damaged. However, the dust has settled, and people credit Pasteur with revolutionizing biology. This was fascinating reading.
The most interesting part of the story occurred after his death. Pasteur demanded that his private journals never be given to the scientific community after his death. However, many years later, one of the remaining Pasteur family members gave them to the French National Library in 1970, which started a firestorm. It seems that Pasteur tinkered with his findings. Pasteur overstated some of his conclusions and lied about others. He also stole credit from others, claiming it was his work.
Because of these journals, Pasteur's reputation was seriously damaged. However, the dust has settled, and people credit Pasteur with revolutionizing biology. This was fascinating reading.
The Black Angels: The Untold Story of the Nurses Who Helped Cure Tuberculosis
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, History, Medical Books
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: Biographies & Memoirs, History, Medical Books
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
The Black Angels are the nurses involved in the discovery of the cure for tuberculosis at Sea View Hospital in Staten Island. The "black" is a reference to race, and the why of that has its history in the Jim Crow South. The book by Maria Smilios is about the hospital, the medical advances, and the life of the women as they faced the challenges of their jobs and the challenges of continued discrimination and hostility even in Staten Island. Ultimately, it is the inspiring lesson of their strength and endurance.
Read my complete review at http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2025/03/the-black-angels.html
Reviewed for NetGalley.
Read my complete review at http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2025/03/the-black-angels.html
Reviewed for NetGalley.
Donna C. (g-ma) reviewed on + 3182 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Freida Mcfadden has won a lot of fans for her books but I think she might be running out of plots
This is a story told many times before by other authors with a few changes but it is predictable, it really doesn't have many twists or turns until the very end and it ends with one you don't see coming
It is an easy book to read but it's not a great book
This is a story told many times before by other authors with a few changes but it is predictable, it really doesn't have many twists or turns until the very end and it ends with one you don't see coming
It is an easy book to read but it's not a great book
The Thursday Murder Club (Thursday Murder Club, Bk 1)
Author:
Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Book Type: Paperback
Julie Y. (naboo) reviewed on + 28 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was chosen for my monthly book club. This is the first book I have read by this author, and I am definitely looking forward to reading more books in the Thursday Murder Club series.Â
At the Coopers Chase Retirement Village, four elders form The Thursday Murder Club and meet every Thursday to resolve old murder investigations. The members of this club are Elizabeth Best (retired spy), Joyce Meadowcroft (a retired nurse), Ron Ritchie (a retired famous trade union leader), and Ibrahim Arif (a retired psychiatrist).
Suddenly, Tony Curran, the lead builder of Coopers Chase, is blugeoned to death in his own kitchen, and an old photograph is left laying beside the victim. The Thursday Murder Club (led by Elizabeth) decide to investigate and discover the killer with help from both Police Constable Donna De Freitas and Detective Chief Inspector Chris Hudson.Â
Soon after Ian Ventham, the unscrupulous owner of Coopers Chase, is killed by an fentanyl overdose injected into the muscle of his upper arm.Â
I truly enjoyed the twists and turns throughout this novel. Additionally, Joyce's diary entries mixed in with the central story provided an intimate access to the character's thoughts and feelings.Â
Finally, I love the quote found in the acknowledgements:
"You must live your life as you choose. "
At the Coopers Chase Retirement Village, four elders form The Thursday Murder Club and meet every Thursday to resolve old murder investigations. The members of this club are Elizabeth Best (retired spy), Joyce Meadowcroft (a retired nurse), Ron Ritchie (a retired famous trade union leader), and Ibrahim Arif (a retired psychiatrist).
Suddenly, Tony Curran, the lead builder of Coopers Chase, is blugeoned to death in his own kitchen, and an old photograph is left laying beside the victim. The Thursday Murder Club (led by Elizabeth) decide to investigate and discover the killer with help from both Police Constable Donna De Freitas and Detective Chief Inspector Chris Hudson.Â
Soon after Ian Ventham, the unscrupulous owner of Coopers Chase, is killed by an fentanyl overdose injected into the muscle of his upper arm.Â
I truly enjoyed the twists and turns throughout this novel. Additionally, Joyce's diary entries mixed in with the central story provided an intimate access to the character's thoughts and feelings.Â
Finally, I love the quote found in the acknowledgements:
"You must live your life as you choose. "
Helpful Score: 1
This book Started with interesting premise, another dystopian world, whew America is dominating England though economic enslavement. A total Economic Collapse in Britain causing debt to USA and crisis so large as to destroy the very structure od the country is build on. Little by little USA is providing food and basic necessities but dictates how they will be used. And GB becomes another third world country with camps providing survival necessities to people in exchange for obedience. Disobedience is not tolerated. Into this we have our Narator telling her story of her brave departure on there dream of a society that might not exist, but that turns out to be equally manipulative, abusive and despotic in its own way. And our "Sister" as the narrator is now when she joins the independent group in the north is quite bling to it. (Not totally blind, but quite blind). It took a bit long to get to the meat of the story, to the actual plot. And just as things started to get good, when we were hitting what should have been the climax of the book, the author employs "data lost", and sums up the results of the climax in 1 paragraph. Terrible choice. At first I thought there would be a sequel, but no. That's it. The journey is the story, not the rebellion. which is unusual. As the rebellion should have been the conclusion, though its added more like an afterthought. Im not sure if that's intentional (brilliant) or not (the author was not going to write a sequel, so they slammed the reader with some obvious ending). There was sgreat ome potential for interesting exploration to happen in this book, including when does resistance to tyranny become tyranny itself, but the book never got itself to that point. Though it does raises interesting questions. And is a worthy read.
A note to reader: This book contains coarse offensive sexual language. (NO... It is not erotica) Quite the opposite. And describes the placement of UTI medical contraceptive device that is very traumatic. Also it includes military training style, very graphic torture sessions, described in extremely vivid detail. Should have a warning on the cover. It is not suitable for younger readers.
A note to reader: This book contains coarse offensive sexual language. (NO... It is not erotica) Quite the opposite. And describes the placement of UTI medical contraceptive device that is very traumatic. Also it includes military training style, very graphic torture sessions, described in extremely vivid detail. Should have a warning on the cover. It is not suitable for younger readers.
What Matters in Mayhew (The Beanie Bradsher Series) (Volume 1)
Author:
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
Helpful Score: 1
What Matters in Mayhew by Cassie Dandridge Selleck is a unique - and a bit obscure- novel. To give a flavor, it's self-published by Obstinate Daughters Press - love that name.
Set in a small town in north Florida, it features a quirky set of characters with interesting names, led by Beanie Bradsher. They may seem one dimensional until you get to know them.
Universal themes of human nature (love, money, gossip, prejudice, etc.) are presented in unexpected ways, and more than one detail about the ending ending surprised me. I definitely need to read The Mayhew Junction Historical Society, the sequel, to find a happy ending for several characters.
Set in a small town in north Florida, it features a quirky set of characters with interesting names, led by Beanie Bradsher. They may seem one dimensional until you get to know them.
Universal themes of human nature (love, money, gossip, prejudice, etc.) are presented in unexpected ways, and more than one detail about the ending ending surprised me. I definitely need to read The Mayhew Junction Historical Society, the sequel, to find a happy ending for several characters.
The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
This was a fun book to read but it did take awhile to get into it. Even so, I didn't get fully attached to the story. It was a good tale but there was nothing that really pulled me in. The characters were okay as well but I was never fully fond of any of them. The artwork was beautifully done and I very much enjoyed that.
The Ministry of Time
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction & Fantasy
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction & Fantasy
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
"It's a time travel romance about bureaucracy, empire, and cigarettes."--Quote from Kaliane Bradley during a Waterstones interview.
Time travel stories often elicit an eye roll from me due to their predictability and reliance on cliches like the Butterfly Effect. Despite having enjoyed time travel yarns in the past, like the "Time Tunnel" show and movies like "Time Bandits" and "Time After Time," I feel I've explored this area sufficiently.
An unnamed narrator, the daughter of Cambodian refugees, has been accepted for a mysterious government job in Britain. The government has discovered a way to travel through time and has apprehended five individuals from the past, moments before their death. The aim is to research time travel's effects on humans.
In 1845 an Arctic expedition left Britain and never returned. Author Kaliane Bradley has taken one of the victims of this ill-fated journey, Captain Graham Gore, and inserted him into this plot. The narrator, in this role with the Ministry of Expatriation, is tasked with being his "bridge," to help him adjust to the modern world. The disorientation caused by technological advancements and societal changes, including the evolving role of women, creates humorous situations and sets the stage for a predictable romantic relationship.
Things take a darker turn, and the tone shifts dramatically as the government's true intentions become unclear. Suspicions of a hidden agenda arise, and the story abruptly transforms into a spy thriller. This shift feels sudden and disjointed, especially as it occurs so close to the end.
"The Ministry of Time" is a fun and multifaceted work that spans various genres, including science fiction, thriller, romance, and comedy. It also touches on diverse themes like history, environmentalism, grief, and imperialism. Despite its diverse elements, the conclusion left me feeling unfulfilled, perhaps due to the overwhelming rush of activity leading to the resolution.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Time travel stories often elicit an eye roll from me due to their predictability and reliance on cliches like the Butterfly Effect. Despite having enjoyed time travel yarns in the past, like the "Time Tunnel" show and movies like "Time Bandits" and "Time After Time," I feel I've explored this area sufficiently.
An unnamed narrator, the daughter of Cambodian refugees, has been accepted for a mysterious government job in Britain. The government has discovered a way to travel through time and has apprehended five individuals from the past, moments before their death. The aim is to research time travel's effects on humans.
In 1845 an Arctic expedition left Britain and never returned. Author Kaliane Bradley has taken one of the victims of this ill-fated journey, Captain Graham Gore, and inserted him into this plot. The narrator, in this role with the Ministry of Expatriation, is tasked with being his "bridge," to help him adjust to the modern world. The disorientation caused by technological advancements and societal changes, including the evolving role of women, creates humorous situations and sets the stage for a predictable romantic relationship.
Things take a darker turn, and the tone shifts dramatically as the government's true intentions become unclear. Suspicions of a hidden agenda arise, and the story abruptly transforms into a spy thriller. This shift feels sudden and disjointed, especially as it occurs so close to the end.
"The Ministry of Time" is a fun and multifaceted work that spans various genres, including science fiction, thriller, romance, and comedy. It also touches on diverse themes like history, environmentalism, grief, and imperialism. Despite its diverse elements, the conclusion left me feeling unfulfilled, perhaps due to the overwhelming rush of activity leading to the resolution.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Donna C. (g-ma) reviewed on + 3182 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
tedious and slow moving about lawyers that just gets jumbled up with all the extra stuff that isn't needed, why throw Russia into it? dumb!
Red Kingdom (Fairy Tale Retellings, Bk 2)
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Romance
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Romance
Book Type: Paperback
Helpful Score: 1
Red Kingdom by Rachel L. Demeter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A wonderful enemies-to-lovers medieval romance and fairy tale reimagining.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A wonderful enemies-to-lovers medieval romance and fairy tale reimagining.
Red Kingdom by Rachel L. Demeter is the second offering in the author's Fairy Tale Retellings series and features the elements of the Little Red Riding Hood story. However, this is assuredly a grown-up fable of danger, suspense, adult situations, and a well-done enemies-to-lovers slow-burn storyline, and definitely not one to share with the kiddies.
Princess Blanchette Winslowe is a wonderful heroine. Her upbringing has kept her ignorant of the truth of her father's cold, harsh reign, and she is completely taken by surprise when his knights, led by Sir Rowan Dietrich - the Black Wolf - stage an insurrection. She begins the story naive and sheltered, though compassionate and kind, but is abruptly forced to face a reality she never even suspected existed. The character experiences great growth and development as she discovers the truth about the state of her homeland and the people her father was meant to safeguard and nurture.Sir Rowan, formerly a friend and supporter of Blanchette's father, had been committed to wresting control of the kingdom from King Bartholomew without harming the innocent prince and princess of the castle. Still, unbeknownst to him, some of his soldiers had plans to take their rage and revenge out on anyone in the household. He's a principled man, valuing honor, justice, respect, and upholding the lord's responsibility for caring for the people of the land.
Together, Princess Blanchette and Sir Rowan are dynamite with a long, slow-burning fuse.The author's storytelling drew me right into their world and I practically inhaled this story - it was so good. The shocking opening attack on Winslowe Castle literally changed my plans for the evening; I had to keep reading! The immediate tension, vivid descriptions, and the palpable terror of the characters make for intense and compelling reading. While the plot changes to the relationship between the two main characters, the story's mesmerizing nature continues.
I recommend RED KINGDOM to romance readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings, a medieval time period, and an enemies-to-lovers storyline.I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy through RABT Book Tours and PR.
The Truth About the Accident
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genres: Literature & Fiction, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Book Type: Paperback
Donna C. (g-ma) reviewed on + 3182 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Very slow and boring
Cheesecake Bars Made Easy: Delicious Cheesecake Bars Recipes to Make You Swoon
Author:
Genre: Cookbooks, Food & Wine
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genre: Cookbooks, Food & Wine
Book Type: Paperback
Helpful Score: 1
My favorite dessert is cheesecake. However, these treats are even easier to make (and eat) than the original. There is a gorgeous photo of each dessert, but unfortunately, no nutritional information is provided.
These thirty recipes range from the familiar (CHEESECAKE BROWNIES) to the unique (BLACK AND ORANGE CHEESECAKE BARS). There wasn't a single recipe that I would turn up my nose at. They all seem sublime.
Cheesecake bars are less fussy than their original counterparts. However, they still taste fantastic. Score = E.
These thirty recipes range from the familiar (CHEESECAKE BROWNIES) to the unique (BLACK AND ORANGE CHEESECAKE BARS). There wasn't a single recipe that I would turn up my nose at. They all seem sublime.
Cheesecake bars are less fussy than their original counterparts. However, they still taste fantastic. Score = E.
The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, Revised Edition
Author:
Genres: Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Health, Fitness & Dieting
Book Type: Paperback
Author:
Genres: Cookbooks, Food & Wine, Health, Fitness & Dieting
Book Type: Paperback
Helpful Score: 1
I'm sorry, but this book defines "overkill." Don't get me wrong; there is plenty of good information in this book. However, the author lauds the benefits of eating capsicum for fat and calorie burning. Other sources say this increased burn is minimal at best.
The author overstates some information by discouraging individuals with arthritis from consuming nightshade plants, such as tomatoes, eggplant, and bell peppers. Although there is little to no scientific data to support this, anecdotal reports suggest that this may be true.
In a phrase, this book was overblown. The text was wordy. I've read better resources. However, I liked the explanation of sugars and sugar alternatives. Overall score = G+.
The author overstates some information by discouraging individuals with arthritis from consuming nightshade plants, such as tomatoes, eggplant, and bell peppers. Although there is little to no scientific data to support this, anecdotal reports suggest that this may be true.
In a phrase, this book was overblown. The text was wordy. I've read better resources. However, I liked the explanation of sugars and sugar alternatives. Overall score = G+.
| Reviews 1 to 25 of 33 |
Show
results per page.
|
Page: |
