The Castle on Sunset: Life, Death, Love, Art, and Scandal at Hollywood’s Chateau Marmont by Shawn Levy is a 2019 Doubleday publication.
An absolutely The Castle on Sunset: Life, Death, Love, Art, and Scandal at Hollywood’s Chateau Marmont by Shawn Levy is a 2019 Doubleday publication.
An absolutely fascinating and absorbing piece of history!
Everyone understands, even through its many incarnations, that Sunset Strip is an iconic part of Los Angeles. Although the Chateau Marmont has been strategically located on the infamous strip since 1929, it has somehow managed to fly under the radar, making it the perfect choice for anyone seeking premium privacy- which of course attracted Hollywood types from actors to producers , and later on, rock stars, who flocked to the storied hotel, where they engaged in all manner of lurid and scandalous activities.
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The hotel has gone through many re-inventions over the years, rising and falling, with several owners, each with a plan or agenda for the hotel. It has mostly been a ‘no-frills’ place, devoid of many of the pricey amenities offered by other famous hotels in L.A.
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Yet, it has been an oasis for many stars because they could live there for long periods and no matter what they got up to, no one ever heard a peep about it. It was a refuge for many deeply closeted gay actors in the fifties and sixties and was also the choice location for actors and actresses going through marital woes, separations or divorces, or who were between marriages, and where they met up with their secret paramours.
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The architecture is unique, and unusual, also providing little cubby holes for clandestine activities. But, the bungalows, with private entrances and exits is where a lot of the more sordid activities transpired. The hotel has occasionally shown up in films or was at the very least alluded to.
The people who passed through the hotel boggles the mind. So many famous people resided there for months at a time and sometimes longer, while others only passed through briefly. However, the hotel could not completely avoid the headlines, as when John Belushi famously overdosed and died. The hotel did have a hard time shaking off that bit of notoriety, but still retained its reputation for the extreme privacy it provided its guests.
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Although the hotel came precariously close to failure and closure on a few occasions, it somehow miraculously fell into the right hands, at just the right time, to survive another day. Today, the hotel is thriving in an entirely new way, but sadly, with cell phones and social media it is harder than ever to maintain the same level of privacy it once boasted.
However, more than even in days past, it is still one of the premiere choices by A-list celebrities who find the hotel, despite some of its lack of on sight luxuries, the place to be. The hotel can still be counted on to the provide their guests with the utmost secrecy and has managed to carve out a legacy all its own in the process.
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The author had a monumental task telling the famed hotel’s history. The hotel is nearing the century mark, which is really quite amazing, but that’s a lot of history to sort through. I thought he did an amazing job with familiarizing the reader with all the owners, the staff, and the guests throughout history and managed to recreate the mood, ambience, and atmosphere of each decade and what the hotel meant to the generations of people who passed through its doors.
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For me, personally, I enjoyed reading about the guest from the thirties through the fifties best of all. The glamour and style of these decades disappeared, never to return, but it was a time when such great innovators and game changers gathered under the same roof, where the party never seemed to end and the creative juices flourished, and it was all done with great style and flourish. The scandals were titillating, but much was still left up to the public’s imagination- not like today when there is very little of the myth or mystery left which helped create true Hollywood legends. But, hopefully the Marmont will survive whatever the next big curve in the road brings, and will remain a steady keeper of secrets for Hollywood’s elite for decades to come…
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Merged review:
The Castle on Sunset: Life, Death, Love, Art, and Scandal at Hollywood’s Chateau Marmont by Shawn Levy is a 2019 Doubleday publication.
An absolutely fascinating and absorbing piece of history!
Everyone understands, even through its many incarnations, that Sunset Strip is an iconic part of Los Angeles. Although the Chateau Marmont has been strategically located on the infamous strip since 1929, it has somehow managed to fly under the radar, making it the perfect choice for anyone seeking premium privacy- which of course attracted Hollywood types from actors to producers , and later on, rock stars, who flocked to the storied hotel, where they engaged in all manner of lurid and scandalous activities.
[image]
The hotel has gone through many re-inventions over the years, rising and falling, with several owners, each with a plan or agenda for the hotel. It has mostly been a ‘no-frills’ place, devoid of many of the pricey amenities offered by other famous hotels in L.A.
[image]
Yet, it has been an oasis for many stars because they could live there for long periods and no matter what they got up to, no one ever heard a peep about it. It was a refuge for many deeply closeted gay actors in the fifties and sixties and was also the choice location for actors and actresses going through marital woes, separations or divorces, or who were between marriages, and where they met up with their secret paramours.
[image]
The architecture is unique, and unusual, also providing little cubby holes for clandestine activities. But, the bungalows, with private entrances and exits is where a lot of the more sordid activities transpired. The hotel has occasionally shown up in films or was at the very least alluded to.
The people who passed through the hotel boggles the mind. So many famous people resided there for months at a time and sometimes longer, while others only passed through briefly. However, the hotel could not completely avoid the headlines, as when John Belushi famously overdosed and died. The hotel did have a hard time shaking off that bit of notoriety, but still retained its reputation for the extreme privacy it provided its guests.
[image]
Although the hotel came precariously close to failure and closure on a few occasions, it somehow miraculously fell into the right hands, at just the right time, to survive another day. Today, the hotel is thriving in an entirely new way, but sadly, with cell phones and social media it is harder than ever to maintain the same level of privacy it once boasted.
However, more than even in days past, it is still one of the premiere choices by A-list celebrities who find the hotel, despite some of its lack of on sight luxuries, the place to be. The hotel can still be counted on to the provide their guests with the utmost secrecy and has managed to carve out a legacy all its own in the process.
[image]
The author had a monumental task telling the famed hotel’s history. The hotel is nearing the century mark, which is really quite amazing, but that’s a lot of history to sort through. I thought he did an amazing job with familiarizing the reader with all the owners, the staff, and the guests throughout history and managed to recreate the mood, ambience, and atmosphere of each decade and what the hotel meant to the generations of people who passed through its doors.
[image]
For me, personally, I enjoyed reading about the guest from the thirties through the fifties best of all. The glamour and style of these decades disappeared, never to return, but it was a time when such great innovators and game changers gathered under the same roof, where the party never seemed to end and the creative juices flourished, and it was all done with great style and flourish. The scandals were titillating, but much was still left up to the public’s imagination- not like today when there is very little of the myth or mystery left which helped create true Hollywood legends. But, hopefully the Marmont will survive whatever the next big curve in the road brings, and will remain a steady keeper of secrets for Hollywood’s elite for decades to come…
Everything my Mother Taught Me by Alice Hoffman is a 2019 Amazon original collections story- Inheritance Collection #1
First, I would like to thank alEverything my Mother Taught Me by Alice Hoffman is a 2019 Amazon original collections story- Inheritance Collection #1
First, I would like to thank all my Goodreads friends for recommending this story to me. A special shout out to Angela M., whose heartfelt review of this short story first caught my attention.
As noted by many reviewers before me, this is a poignant story, featuring twelve-year-old Adeline, who is at the mercy of her abusive, selfish, and neglectful mother. After her father dies, Adeline deliberately becomes mute, refusing to speak. As her mother manipulates and schemes, Adeline finds an unlikely ally and makes a loyal friend, giving her the courage to break the chain, and carve out a more stable future for herself, despite all the odds.
For such a short story, this one really packs a punch. Strong emotions build quickly, and real feeling of compassion, righteous indignation, and pride for and on behalf of Adeline. She is a truly memorable character and this story is one that will stay with me for a long time to come.
Hercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie is a 1938 publication.
A masterful Golden Age mystery!!
Simeon Lee, a difficult old man, blessed with weHercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie is a 1938 publication.
A masterful Golden Age mystery!!
Simeon Lee, a difficult old man, blessed with wealth, but cursed with bad health, has invited his adult children home for the holidays. One might believe the old man has become sentimental and is hoping for a reconciliation and perhaps forgiveness from his family before he passes on.
However, that doesn’t appear to be the case. It would seem that Lee, the host of this less than cheerful gathering, is playing some dastardly tricks on the people who hope to inherit his fortune.
Unfortunately, his game backfires horribly, leaving investigators with a house full of suspects and a puzzling locked room mystery on their hands. Thankfully, Hercule Poirot has kindly offered his assistance in solving the case.
"Yet who would have thought the old man to have had so much blood in him?"
When I was younger, if I were to grab an Agatha Christie novel, for some reason, I always chose a Miss Marple mystery.
But, over the years Hercule Poirot became my favorite of Christie’s detectives. However, there are still many books in this series I have yet to read- and this was one of them.
While I understand that some aficionados have suggested it might be wise to read ‘Three Act Tragedy’ or ('Murder in Three Acts"), before reading this one, but I wanted to read a holiday themed mystery so I skipped way ahead. ( I honestly don’t think it really matters what order you read them in- but purists will be purists-...more
All About Dinner by Molly Stevens is a 2019 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Who hasn’t, at some point, become frustrated when it comes to deciding whAll About Dinner by Molly Stevens is a 2019 W.W. Norton Company publication.
Who hasn’t, at some point, become frustrated when it comes to deciding what to cook for dinner? We want something fresh, original, healthy, easy, and delicious- but that is often easier said than done. We may want to try something new but may feel intimidated by the prospect. Dinner shouldn’t be so stressful!
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Molly Stevens not only provides numerous menu choices, using everyday ingredients, but also gives the book an upbeat presentation, adding many priceless cooking tips along the way. So, relax! Put dinner into perspective with this beautiful and immeasurably helpful guide to healthy, delicious meals!
This book is very easy to follow, with colorful photos, organized into the usual categories.
Think you know all about the Santa Claus Bank Robbery in Cisco, Texas?
Well, I live in Texas, and not too farThe synopsis/blurb asked this question:
Think you know all about the Santa Claus Bank Robbery in Cisco, Texas?
Well, I live in Texas, and not too far from Cisco, but I’d never heard anything about this bank robbery, nor was I aware of the museums, songs and shows influenced by this insane story.
In the 1920’s, bank robberies were becoming so commonplace, lawmakers offered a five -thousand- dollar reward to anyone who took out a bandit in the process of robbing a bank. That was a huge amount of money back then, and unbelievably that law stayed on the books until 1964!!
But, when a group of four men, now known as the Santa Claus Gang- Marshall Ratliff, Henry Helms, Lewis Davis, and Robert Hill- decided to knock off the First National Bank in Cisco, they weren’t too worried about being shot, apparently. They had a getaway car, plus one of the bandits had a perfect disguise- a Santa Claus suit.
However, that suit, as it turns out, was more of a hindrance than a help. To say the robbery didn’t go as planned is an understatement of epic proportions. It was just unreal! Kids wanting to see Santa, teenagers with guns, and an all -out melee that resulted in several deaths, with several others wounded.
This is not the first book written about this crime, and the author appears puzzled by the various name changes and omissions from previous publications. Snider doesn’t hold back any information or tiptoe around the possible connections with those on the periphery, or those who may have aided and abetted the robbers. Why other writers may have avoided pointing out those connections is a curious mystery all on its own.
The story follows the case from its conception, all the way through to the aftermath, and reveals the effects on the survivors later in life. The aftermath is most interesting, proving truth is often stranger than fiction. The most interesting relationship to develop over time, was between robber Robert Hill and potential victim Woody Harris.
Wow! Unbelievable. Woody is my favorite person in this story, I think.
The book isn’t all that long and once I got started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. I even got my husband interested in it. The history, of course, is quite fascinating, made even more interesting since I am familiar with most of the areas mentioned in the book. Surprisingly, a few famous names pop up here and there- such as Conrad Hilton. You’ll have to read the book to see how he was connected to Cisco, Texas.
Unfortunately, there are moments of shame in the story too, and not where one might think it should be placed. Citizens behaved just as badly at times and that is a part of the story surely no one is very proud of.
While I’ve read many true crime sagas, this year, this one was one of the wildest stories I have encountered- and it might just be my favorite!
Anyone who likes history will have to read this book, and of course, true crime readers won’t want to miss it, either.
A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote is a 1956 publication.
Lovely Christmas tale filled with humor and warm fondness!
Every year one of my friends on A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote is a 1956 publication.
Lovely Christmas tale filled with humor and warm fondness!
Every year one of my friends on social media will write a review for this story, reminding me, once again, that I STILL haven't read it. By the time I make it to the library, the hold time for this popular classic goes well beyond the Christmas holidays- so I put it off for another year.
This year I got lucky and found a collection of short stories by Truman Capote, which also had the Thanksgiving story in it, which I’d been meaning to read forever, as well. Although, I think I read them out of order- I was thankful I finally got a chance to read these lovely holiday stories.
This is a super quick read, but the love that leaps from the pages is powerful and very touching. I’m not a fan of fruitcake, but I do remember my grandmother made several fruitcakes for Christmas every year and often gave them as gifts- so the book brought back a few fond memories of my own. Capote’s autobiographical tale is humorous and heartfelt, and of course we all know he had a real knack for weaving a tale- even a short one.
If you haven’t read this book, I highly recommend it! It’s a story anyone of any age can enjoy, but the older one gets, the more meaningful stories like this one are. No wonder this book is considered a holiday classic!...more
The Thanksgiving Visitor by Truman Capote is a 1996 publication. (Originally published in 1968)
It often seems to me that Thanksgiving gets lost in theThe Thanksgiving Visitor by Truman Capote is a 1996 publication. (Originally published in 1968)
It often seems to me that Thanksgiving gets lost in the shuffle between Halloween and Christmas- at least in the book world. These days I find myself reading both horror novels and Christmas books alternately, during the months of September and October, especially since publishers are releasing Christmas books earlier and earlier every year. This year I decided to find at least one Thanksgiving themed book and squeeze it into my holiday reading schedule.
While I didn’t see many new releases, I did discover there were more Thanksgiving themed books for adults than I realized. Unfortunately, my DH and I have been sharing a deep cold and bronchitis, and I fell even further behind on my reading and reviews.
Just when I decided I didn’t have time for a Thanksgiving novel, a Goodreads friend reminded me of Truman Capote’s classic short story- "A Thanksgiving Visitor”. Thankfully, a copy of this book, which was a part of a compilation of Capote’s short stories, was available from my library.
This story is believed to be at the least, a semi-autobiographical tale, and a childhood holiday memory. It is geared mainly towards young readers. However, the story is one for both young and old alike. There is a moral to the story- sort of a ‘two wrongs don’t make a right’ sort of lesson, and the conclusion has an uplifting tone.
The writing is terrific, and the setting is nostalgic, eccentric, very southern, and although I can’t claim to have felt all the warmth others have claimed to have experienced from reading this story, I suppose I can see why some consider it a holiday classic. It's a very short, easy read, and although it didn't affect me the way it has so many others, I'm still glad I finally got around to reading it.
While I have this book loaned out, I suppose now would be a great time to read ‘A Christmas Memory’- another classic by Capote, I’ve been meaning to read for ages.
Inside Out by Demi Moore is a 2019 Harper publication.
A compelling and revealing memoir
I waffled back and forth on this one. Initially, I talked myseInside Out by Demi Moore is a 2019 Harper publication.
A compelling and revealing memoir
I waffled back and forth on this one. Initially, I talked myself out of reading it, then changed my mind when I saw it had generated a little buzz and I noticed most of the reviews were positive.
Curiosity got the better of me and so I borrowed it from the library. However, the audio version was available on Scribd and I ended up listening to the book instead.
I’ve never been a fan of movie, or TV stars, in the same way I am with musicians or authors. I liked many of the movies Demi starred in- Ghost being my very favorite of all her roles. I think she is a good actress, but I wouldn’t call myself a fan, necessarily.
Naturally, I was aware she was controversial at times, that she had married and divorced Bruce Willis, and then married Ashton Kutcher- a relationship that came under a great deal of scrutiny in the tabloids. In other words, I knew the simple basics and that's about it.
Much of the information regarding her childhood and upbringing was news to me. I didn’t even know she had once had a role on a popular soap opera early in her career. Before long, Demi had captured my rapt attention as I digested all this information.
Her narration is top- notch. Occasionally, in the beginning of the book she did speak a little too rapidly, as though she were in a hurry to finish the task. However, as the book progressed, she found a rhythm and her inflections were sincere and very believable.
When it comes to celebrity memoirs I feel a little more justified in expressing my personal opinion about the author, since after all, this is not a biography, written by a third party or without authorization.
Some of my impressions are:
I’m not a psychologist, but I did see patterns in Demi’s life. I don’t know what the official word might be, but she did seem to have a predisposition towards addiction. Alcohol, drugs, food, shopping- she seemed to replace one addiction with another.
Like most of us, Demi has made some questionable choices, personally and professionally. She has been the object of criticism from all sides on occasion. While this book is her opportunity to tell her side of the story, I thought she held her resentments in check for the most part.
While some celebrities mentioned in the book felt compelled to set the record straight- on mostly minor things- and some may have felt compelled to defend themselves- but ultimately took the high road- I thought Demi did a good job in telling her life story. She was hard on some people, sometimes understandably, sometimes not, but she was also forgiving. She didn’t sugarcoat her foibles and owned her own s**t.
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Overall, this memoir is very well-done. Demi has pulled herself up out of some dark places more than once and appears to be in a good place right now. Often times, a memoir will lesson my opinion of someone, but in this case the opposite was true.
Singapore Fling by Maida Malby is a 2019 EOT publication.
Exotic locations, high drama, intrigue and sizzling hot romance!
Maddie is enjoying every minSingapore Fling by Maida Malby is a 2019 EOT publication.
Exotic locations, high drama, intrigue and sizzling hot romance!
Maddie is enjoying every minute of her life in Singapore, while working in a public relations firm. However, she is having trouble getting Aidan, her best friend’s future brother-in-law, out her mind. She hasn’t seen him in the couple of months since they shared a romantic interlude.
However, when Aidan shows up in Singapore, the sparks reignite, big time, spawning a super intense affair. However, a stunning revelation could throw ice cold water on the couple’s fiery passion.
Excruciating suspense, and foreign intrigue ensues, leaving Maddie and Aidan’s future hanging in the balance…
I loved the combination of sights, sounds, flavors and cultures mixed into this story. Our heroine is of mixed race, half French- half Filipino, adding a much needed shot of diversity in the romance category. The locale is vibrant and full of culture and savory cuisine that will leave you salivating!
And speaking of salivating…
Fans of military heroes and strong, take charge alpha males, are going to love Aidan. Maddie and Aidan are an unusual pair in some ways, but they have an ‘off the charts’ chemistry with each other. The independent, career driven, Maddie, is the perfect match for Aidan. The two may believe they are enjoying a ‘no strings attached’ Singapore fling, but that soon develops into something much more serious. I pulled for them, even though the obstacles the couple faces do seem insurmountable. Will true love win out?
Overall, this is a unique contemporary romance, making it a nice change of pace from the standard romantic formula. The sex scenes are hot, hot, hot, but- for me, it took little too much precedence at the beginning of the story. However, the plot does move forward onto more substantial ground, and really picks up in the second half. I was turning pages as fast as possible, realizing that I’d become very invested in this couple and their happy ever after!
Romance fans who welcome diversity, enjoy steamy romance, military heroes, and an emotional happily ever after will love this book!!
Hanukkah at the Great Greenwich Ice Creamery by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A divinely enchanting and whimsical holiday treat!
WorHanukkah at the Great Greenwich Ice Creamery by Sharon Ibbotson is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A divinely enchanting and whimsical holiday treat!
World weary Cohen Ford grudgingly weathers the London gloom to run an errand for his mother. His mission takes him to a Greenwich ice creamery where he comes face to face with River De Luca-the daughter of his mother’s best friend, who is definitely off limits. His world tilts on its axis, causing him to pause and take stock of his life.
River’s life couldn’t have been more different from Cohen’s. She is deaf, abandoned by her birth parents, and hasn’t had the best luck in the romance department. How could Cohen, the wealthy man with a hardened heart be the right guy for her?
I loved this story!!
The atmosphere of the story immediately drew me in, and suddenly I could see the dreary London scenery and the charming brightness of the ice creamery by contrast. I knew this story would be good, and I was not disappointed.
The diversity and mingling of different religious celebrations are also a big draw. Cohen’s mother is Jewish, so she celebrates Hanukkah, and her faith has a big role in the story, as does her relationship with her son.
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The challenges the deaf or hearing- impaired face is gently approached, with great respect, and is also an integral part of the romance.
The book is short, so things progress rapidly, but the relationships are fleshed out, and character growth, along with true love, develops beautifully. The story has its moments of poignancy, and can be emotive, but the tone has a fantastical quality to it, as well, making it feel positively magical!
Overall, this is simply a delightful story from start to finish!!
The Right Reason to Marry by Christine Rimmer is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
Once bitten, twice shy-
When Karin discovers she is preThe Right Reason to Marry by Christine Rimmer is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
Once bitten, twice shy-
When Karin discovers she is pregnant, informing the father isn’t a priority for her. But, when she runs into her former lover, Liam Bravo, at the supermarket, the proverbial cat is out of the bag. Not only that, Karin’s worst fears come to light when Liam immediately steps up, insisting he do his part, and begins an all -out campaign to convince Karin to marry him, and is much more persistent than she had anticipated. But, Karin’s first marriage fell apart under the exact same set of circumstances and she’s not about to make the same mistake twice…
Liam is stunned to discover he's about to be a father. However, he’s determined to do the right thing by Karin and his child. But, while Karin is convinced his feelings stem from a sense of duty, Liam knows deep down that his feelings for Karin, and the baby, are far more complicated than that. But no matter what he says or does, Liam can’t talk Karin into taking another chance on love.
We’ve all loved and lost at some time, and we know people like Karin, who thought getting married was the right step to take after an unplanned pregnancy. We’ve all made mistakes, made decisions we regret, and we hope that we learn from those mistakes.
However, there is a big difference between learning from our mistakes and being so afraid of making another one we never take a chance or try again, for fear of failure. Karin falls into the latter category and while she makes some valid points along the way, she’s asking for something none of us ever get… a guarantee.
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Now, ladies- Liam Bravo? Whew! He’s my kind of guy! I wish this type of hero would show up more in romance novels. I don’t always like the message the ‘bad boy’ stories send, or the suggestion that there are no good guys out there anymore, because, let’s face it- we seldom hear about those stand-up guys who talk the talk and walk the walk. Rimmer reminds us that yes, there really are mature, respectful, guys out there who are committed to making their relationships work, are hands on parents, and family men.
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However, because Karin couldn’t quite screw up the courage to admit Liam was solid gold, and that he had real feelings for her, and she for him, I became really frustrated with Karin before all was said and done. I was team Liam all the way!! This guy will make your heart melt!
But life is and love is a gamble- you’ll lose sometimes, but you’ll have to stay in the game if you ever want a shot at winning. Karin may have lost a few rounds, but I’d say she finally hit the jackpot…. Big time!
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By now, if you follow my reviews, you’ll have noticed I tend to stick with just a handful of romance authors these days, mainly those I’ve followed or read for ages. Christine Rimmer is one of those authors and this book happens to be her 115th Harlequin romance novel! Congratulations Christine and thanks so much for all these touching stories that brighten our lives!
Daisy’s Christmas Gift Shop by Hannah Pearl is a 2019 Choc Lit/Ruby Fiction publication.
Heartwarming Christmas Intrigue!!
Daisy’s special gift shop iDaisy’s Christmas Gift Shop by Hannah Pearl is a 2019 Choc Lit/Ruby Fiction publication.
Heartwarming Christmas Intrigue!!
Daisy’s special gift shop is the place to go for that intimate and personal gift for the special person in your life. But while Daisy is busy making everyone else’s romantic dreams come true, her own love life is non-existent. To make matters worse, she hasn’t fully gotten over her crush on her brother Ben’s best friend, Eli. However, she and Eli can’t seem to be in the same room together without constantly bickering.
Because Eli and Ben’s work is filled with secrecy and intrigue, they can be a little demeaning to Daisy about her shop. But things take a frightening and sinister turn, when Ben, who is on the spectrum, gets tired of hearing Daisy and Eli argue and runs away.
While searching for Ben they begin to think Ben may be in danger- in more ways than one! Can Eli and Daisy put their differences behind them to rescue Ben?
Holiday novels are plentiful, all full of heartwarming stories and good cheer. But a holiday romance with action and adventure?
Yes, please!!
The author puts a unique spin on holiday romance stories- and that’s a good thing! I enjoyed the wicked banter between Daisy and Eli and the mad cap adventure they embark on. Ben, who apparently suffers from autism or Asperger’s, gets a prominent feature in the book, when he makes a very unusual connection. The plot has a curious mix of offbeat characters, situations, and unconventional love stories, as well as the traditional holiday sentiments. As a result, I found the book to be highly entertaining and one of the most original holiday romance books I’ve read so far this year!
Stillhouse Lake by Rachel Caine is a 2017 Thomas & Mercer publication.
Super intense thrill ride!
Gina Proctor is a nice, quiet person, married with tStillhouse Lake by Rachel Caine is a 2017 Thomas & Mercer publication.
Super intense thrill ride!
Gina Proctor is a nice, quiet person, married with two kids, living a perfectly normal, perfectly mundane life- until a fluke car accident outs her husband as a serial killing monster. Now Gina has transformed herself into Gwen Proctor- a confident single mother who hangs out at the shooting range in her free time.
Gwen relocates her family to Stillhouse Lake, where she finally allows herself, and her children, to let their guard down in small ways. Yet, the internet trolls, convinced Gwen was complicit in her husband’s crimes, are still a constant threat.
But then the letters start arriving, shattering her tiny moment of peace. Hating the prospect of forcing her family to start over somewhere else, yet again, Gwen is afraid she may have no choice when Stillhouse Lake becomes fraught with suspicion and danger…
Well, I’m only a few years late to this show-
I saw so many glowing reviews for this book from my Goodreads friends and knew I wanted to see for myself what all the fuss was about. It took me a while to squeeze this one it, but boy am I glad I did! I must say that all the high praise is well-deserved.
The author grabbed my attention immediately with a shocking revelation that no one could have been prepared for. From that point on the momentum stays steady and the tension becomes even more taut, which had me turning pages at the speed of light.
The prospect of living under the radar, on the run, gives everything one says or does an entirely new levity. I was knocked sideways by the twists, which truly ratchets up the suspense. Overall, this is a well thought out thriller, very atmospheric and creepy. I can’t wait to read the follow up book now!
Epic Air Fryer Cookbook by Emily Paster is a Harvard Common Press publication.
Fresh, Fun, and Easy!
I got an air fryer for Christmas last year and n Epic Air Fryer Cookbook by Emily Paster is a Harvard Common Press publication.
Fresh, Fun, and Easy!
I got an air fryer for Christmas last year and now I wonder what how I ever survived without one. I’m always looking for new and fresh recipes to try out and am especially interested in ones that are unique to air fryers specifically. This cookbook, as promised, has one hundred recipes, divided into the usual sections one expects to find in a typical cookbook.
Included are:
Breakfast foods Party Foods and Appetizers Vegetarian meals Main Courses with Poultry, meat and seafood Side dishes Deserts
As you will discover, the air fryer is not just for traditional ‘frying’ but also works like a convection oven. I have tried one or two air fryer cookbooks right after I first got my fryer, which got me off to a good start, while I acclimated myself to the device.
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This book is a nice addition to my growing collection! I’d never even thought about trying some of these recipes in the air fryer!! It really is very versatile and a much healthier choice. In fact, we had given up on some favorite foods because of the health risk, but now we can enjoy them again in moderation.
One recipe included was for fried green tomatoes- which was timely for me. We just experienced our first freeze of the season and I still had tomatoes on the vine in my garden- all still very green. So, I had already planned on looking up a recipe for FGT- and now I have one I can use in my air fryer- guilt free!
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The other recipe I tried was the Baja Fish Tacos mainly because I had many of the ingredients on hand and was in the mood for fish.
Overall, this is an exceptional air fryer cookbook. If you have an air fryer or are thinking about buying one for yourself or someone else, be sure to pick up this cookbook to go along with it. There are color photos included, and most recipes are very easy to make and do not require hard to find spices or ingredients.
Happy Christmas Eve by Jackie Ladbury is a 2019 Ruby Fiction publication.
A warm, festive holiday romance!
Eve has been in love with Lucien Malikov fo Happy Christmas Eve by Jackie Ladbury is a 2019 Ruby Fiction publication.
A warm, festive holiday romance!
Eve has been in love with Lucien Malikov for ages. But her feelings are unrequited as the popular rock star strings Eve along while surrounding himself with fans and other women. But, while they are both home for the holidays, Eve is hoping for a chance to make Lucien see they belong together. But when she reconnects with Theo Wright, an old childhood friend, Eve begins to wonder if she’ been wasting her time with Lucien.
If you are looking for a story to get you into the holiday spirit, this one should do the trick. All the trimmings you need for a delightful holiday story are here! Although this is a short story, there is plenty of character growth, as Eve’s holiday wishes take an eye-opening turn. People aren’t always what they seem, and perhaps, Eve isn’t the only suffering from unrequited love!
The characterizations are well-done, evoking the right emotional responses. Thankfully, Eve has an awakening of sorts, gaining confidence, self-worth, a new passion and at long last- true love!! The romance is sweet and charming, and the holiday cheer practically leaps off the pages. You’ll want to grab a plate of sugar cookies, a nice hot cup of cocoa and curl up by the fire with this lovely feel good story that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy!!
Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is an 1818 publication. (This book is a 2013 e-artnow publication)
I thought that I had read this book at Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is an 1818 publication. (This book is a 2013 e-artnow publication)
I thought that I had read this book at some point during my early teens- maybe in junior high? Even so, I couldn’t remember anything about the book and knew that if I ever re-read it, it would be like reading it for the first time. Every year I consider reading Frankenstein for Halloween, but it never seemed to make the cut- until now.
Once I finally settled into reading the book it became immediately apparent that the book was completely unfamiliar to me. I’m still not sure If I ever truly read this book all the way through, and I’m waffling on how clear my memory is on that- but- I did finally take notice of the blurb/synopsis for this edition of Frankenstein, which clearly states that this book is the original 'uncensored' 1818 version, the one submitted by an ‘anonymous’ author as Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus. According to the blurb, Shelley heavily edited the book in 1831, under pressure to make it more conservative.
So, even if you have read this book once before, this original version may be worth your time. If you have only seen the countless films based on the book, you really should read the book for a greater understanding of Shelley’s true intent when writing the book.
The novel is controversial for its time, and I think it still gives one a lot to ponder over. It is a Horror novel, but maybe not in the way you have been conditioned to think of it. The story is also told by the narrators, (Walton, Frankenstein and the Monster), with the benefit of hindsight, giving them the ability to see their errors and the consequences they wrought.
Several weighty themes are addressed in the story and people have theorized and analyzed the symbolism and pontificated on these subjects, searching for all manner of possible allegory, for ages.
In this case, the subtitle Shelley gives the book, suggests a parallel with the Greek mythological figure- Prometheus the Titan- who created humanity with clay. The quote by The monster to his creator- “Remember, that I am thy monster; I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel, whom thou drivest from joy for no misdeed" seems to be a reference to the creation depicted in Genesis.
The scientific ramifications suggest a cautionary tone-perhaps bordering on alarmist territory, in my opinion, but certainly raises questions- ones that are still being considered today. John Milton’s- Paradise Lost’ is also thought to have influenced Shelley as the theme of alienation and isolation are prominent throughout the book.
For me, the motives behind Frankenstein’s experimentation, which, despite some arguments suggesting his grief played a role in his decision, were in my opinion, wholly egotistical and arrogant, spurred on by his raw and naked ambition. He attempts to sway the reader, at once claiming he is the devil, while at the same time, rationalizing his actions. His work backfires spectacularly, when his creation turns out to be so ‘hideous’, he is unable to acclimate himself within a normal society. He is abandoned by his creator, which leads to intense bitterness and anger, leading to his demand for a mate.
The conclusion felt a little bit abrupt, maybe a bit vague. Unlike Frankenstein, Walton’s choice is one that considers the overall effect of his ambitions- but, does the monster follow through on his promise?
Looking at the various points lined out here it hard to find too many similarities between the book and the various movie adaptations. The revised version of the book is the most commonly read, but still I hardly recognize the story compared to Hollywood’s interpretation of it.
As for the writing- compared to what we are accustomed to today, the prose may take some getting used to, but I had no trouble with it. As to whether the book stands the test of time is perhaps debatable. I couldn’t help but notice many recent three- star ratings for the book compared with tons of five- star ratings from years past.
I think this book has more merit than it is given credit for, and still raises many valid questions. Today’s world is full of Victor Frankenstein prototypes- ambitious to the point of obsession, and the consequences of personal achievement be damned- and they never seem to fully learn from their mistakes either.
For a book synonymous with the horror genre for centuries, I’d say it does stand the test of time. It is much more thought provoking than I had anticipated, and even if I had read this book from start to finish in my youth, I no doubt missed out on the various messages implied throughout. All of that would have sailed right over my head as I’m sure my only goal was to read a scary story. I’m glad Frankenstein finally made it to the top of my Halloween reading list. Someday I may read the edited edition, and compare notes, but I doubt I’ll ever be tempted to watch a movie version again, with the possible exception, of Young Frankenstein. ...more
Sherlock Holmes and the Christmas Demon by James Lovegrove is a 2019 Titan publication.
A fun, clever, holiday mystery- Holmes & Watson style!
I have Sherlock Holmes and the Christmas Demon by James Lovegrove is a 2019 Titan publication.
A fun, clever, holiday mystery- Holmes & Watson style!
I have not read any of the previous Holmes & Watson mysteries written by James Lovegrove. I was a little wary about a new Sherlock Holmes mystery, written by someone other than Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, to be honest.
However, after indulging in my usual heartwarming and saccharine sweet holiday romances, I was looking for a good holiday murder mystery, when this book popped up on my radar. For the most part the book has received positive feedback- so I decided to give it a try.
The story examines the darker side of Christmas folklore. We all know about Santa Claus or Father Christmas, but apparently these jolly souls have evil counterpoints- or opposites- for example:
Black Thurrick, who is also said to make an appearance during the Christmas holidays, punishing children by replacing their gifts with batches of Birch Twigs.
Holmes and Watson are hired by Eve Allerthorpe to investigate the ghostly happenings at her estate, after she believes she witnessed the demon Thurrick. Not only that, Thurrick’s hallmark calling card of Birch twigs were found outside of doors or windows on occasion.
The hitch is that dear Eve is about to come into a healthy sum of money, just so long as she is deemed of sound mind. Witnessing demonic apparitions might cause one to question her sanity, which is why Holmes & Watson need to get to the bottom of things before Eve loses her inheritance- or worse- is institutionalized.
Although Eve’s family is less than welcoming, Sherlock Holmes brushes off his chilly reception and gets right down to work. What ensues is a puzzling mystery, with several nice red herrings, and some truly wonderful dialogue between Holmes and Watson.
Although Lovegrove does occasionally satirize Holmes’ uncanny powers of observation and embellishes and exaggerates his and Watson’s relationship, a bit here and there, I think the author is very sincere and takes his task very seriously. He obviously respects these classic characters and does them justice.
I thought the author did a good job with this mystery, which kept me guessing and thoroughly entertained. I suspect Lovegrove enjoyed breathing new life into the Sherlock Holmes mystery series and I for one truly enjoyed reading it!
Paranormal Texas by Tui Snider is a 2019 publication.
This is a fantastic non-fictional travel guide to the various true hauntings the author discovereParanormal Texas by Tui Snider is a 2019 publication.
This is a fantastic non-fictional travel guide to the various true hauntings the author discovered in and around the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. The book provides fascinating background information about the haunted places discussed in the book and includes many of the author’s personal ghost hunting experiences.
Since I live reasonably close to the DFW region, I am in driving distance to some of the towns and locations listed in the book. Yet, I was only familiar with a handful of these stories.
Granbury is a favorite spot for me, as they have a nice town square with specialty shops, antiques, and collectables, but it is also famous for the Granbury Opera House. This is a wonderful historic area but has long been rumored to be haunted. The Opera House has a truly fascinating ghost story I think most people would find quite interesting. I was aware of most of the stories centered in the area, though not all. But I loved reading about this section because it is so familiar to me. I’ve never seen a ghost or had a paranormal experience there, though.
I was also familiar with some of the stories listed in the town of Mineral Wells and have driven through this area several times. But I did not know much of the town’s history or the information about the minerals in the water, which is how the town got its name.
In fact, all the information provided in the book will be of interest to anyone who enjoys history, even if you aren’t from Texas, or never plan on mapping out your own ghost hunting tour.
A couple of things I feel must be stressed before you start reading this book:
1) This book does not mention urban legends or old folklore tales unless there has been some real evidence of a haunting. The author has only included locations that have some paranormal readings or first- hand accountings.
2) This second edition of the book includes photographs, the authors’ first- hand experiences, and real evidence of hauntings.
The travel guide to these spooky locations includes addresses and directions, as well as information about accessibility.
I loved reading these ghost stories and the interesting history behind them. My ghost hunting days are in the past, but this book would be very helpful for those planning a historical journey or a ghost hunting adventure through this area of Texas.
It would also be a great gift idea! I have a close relative who loves ghost hunting tours. In fact, just a few weeks ago they traveled with a group of friends down to the Galveston area where they took in a ghost tour and explored alleged hauntings, one in a Wal Mart store! LOL!
They also stayed at a haunted hotel where the lights in the bathroom began flickering on and off-and yes, they recorded it with their cell phones. It was super freaky. So, guess who will be getting a copy of this book for Christmas?
Overall, this is a fascinating book. It’s fun, informative, and more than a little spooky! I got goosebumps more than once! This book will really put you in the mood for Halloween, too! ...more
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