Vampire Academy 6: Last Sacrifice

Vampire Academy 6: Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I've always enjoyed this series, though it's a little sad to see it come to an end. Things with Rose and Dimitri dove tailed nicely, though there are still several things left open in regards to Lissa, Adrian and Jill. Hopefully something can be continued in her new series, Bloodlines. From what I've heard though, it sounds to be in third person and everyone seems skeptical on how that will turn out. Still, I'm hoping for something good as I do enjoy this world she's created and her characters.

View all my reviews

City of Ember

City of Ember (2008)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Not particularly great, but not horrible either. I probably never would have seen this movie had my uncle-in-law not given it to us for Christmas. It was a nice change of pace from the usual films though.

Baby Mama

Baby Mama (2008)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Wow, this movie was all sorts of messed up. I'll stick to having my own kids. Thanks for showing just how bad it can be to tangle in other people's affairs.

The Hurt Locker

The Hurt Locker (2008)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Yet another in the long line of war movies. There was nothing particularly fantastic that made this one stand out from the others. Not all out there amazing, but not bad either. For those who enjoy these types of films, it's a decent one for the collection.

Goddess Summoning 1: Goddess of the Sea

Goddess Summoning 1: Goddess of the Sea by P.C. Cast

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


This book was very difficult to get into. At first I did not like it at all and was wondering if this would be the first book in years that I put down and didn't finish. The story did pick up though and more elements were woven in to the tale that made the mythological factors come to life. If you like Greek mythology, you'll love this little mermaids tale. If you're very much Christian and can't stand anyone looking down on the religion though, you'll probably want to burn it as the monks that give her shelter are not painted in a very positive light. More jailers than saviors, it takes a good long while into the book before anyone warms up to the girl or any positive contrasts are brought to light.

View all my reviews

Die Hard 3: With a Vengeance

Die Hard 3: With a Vengeance (1995)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I'm not entirely sure why, but there's something about the thrill factor and the unbeatable odds that makes me love this series. This character is perfect for Bruce Willis. It's a thrill each and every time. As always, I enjoyed the installment.

Repo Men

Repo Men (2010)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


While not the best out there, this once twisted enough to keep guessing the next move. Not everyone apparently wants to be part machine. And those that expire... well, they meet a rather grisly fate. Not the sort of futuristic world I ever hope to see.

The Book of Eli

The Book of Eli (2010)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


While somewhat interesting, this didn't carry enough to really keep my interest. I found myself drifting off to do other things I didn't even really care about rather than paying attention to the film. Sad since it came highly recommended. Maybe I'll give it another try in the future.

My Super Ex-Girlfriend

My Super Ex-Girlfriend (2006)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Why not to tick off the crazy girlfriend. So crazy it boarders on painful, the movie definitely has it's ups and downs. Overall it's an easy watch with a couple of laughs that doesn't require any real investment or draw-in from the viewer.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Wasn't sure what I'd think of this one as I grew up watching the old version of Willy Wonka. Still think I like the original better, but this was surprisingly enjoyable for a re-make. Johnny Depp looks very different as he pulls off the genius and possibly crazy candy inventor very well. Maybe I'm just too used to him as Jack Sparrow.

Die Hard

Die Hard (1988)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


What would you do if you were trapped in a corporate building and the bad guys had your wife hostage? Beat the bad guys and save the hostages of course. John McCain defies all odds to make sure these bad boys don't go home happy.

Die Hard 2: Die Harder

Die Hard 2: Die Harder (1990)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Who says it's realistic? But it sure is entertaining! Once again Bruce Willis kicks some serious butt. Not even on duty, yet he'll have to go against orders to find the real mastermind that's supposed to be working the same case. Nothing gets past this cop, especially when his wife is coming in.

Morganville Vampires 2: The Dead Girls Dance

Morganville Vampires 2: The Dead Girls Dance by Rachel Caine

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Slightly better than the first two, but still not as engaging as I would like to see for this series. Amelie is driving me crazy, though I did like her turn around and the teaming with Oliver against Bishop at the end of Feat of Fools. Unfortunately not engaging enough for me to be watching the regular release schedule though. Will be visiting the library or waiting for the next combo book to come out before continuing. Even more convinced Jason should have burned like they were risking to do to Shane, especially after being bought off by Bishop. Slightly interested to see if they can get the cure from Bishop; more curious how he can be the cure when he should theoretically be the same as all of Morganville's vampires. So what made them different?

View all my reviews

Morganville Vampires 1: Glass Houses

Morganville Vampires 1: Glass Houses by Rachel Caine

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Heard a lot of hype about the series, so thought I'd check it out. Struggled initially getting into it as I was not feeling the main character, Claire, until somewhere between a fourth and half way in to Glass House. If there's a way for a situation to turn bad and Claire to be in more trouble, it'll happen. Also felt that Michael's choice in the Dead Girls' Dance was a little obvious. Even more so considering the nature of the town that they live in - secretly controlled completely by vampires. Will still continue reading the series to see how it develops, but it's more of a laid back curiosity and just wanting something easy to read than really devouring the story, which is a little disappointing after all the hype. Claire and Michael are growing on me though, so there may be hope yet. Currently would rather slap Eve and lock Shane in a room with a therapist, so can't say much about them. Will see if the next two books improve them any.

View all my reviews

Madagascar

Madagascar (2005)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Not entirely sure what made me watch this movie as I'd never had an interest in it before. For whatever reason, I turned it on. These animals are so quirky and crazy; they're highly entertaining. Not enough to make a favorite of all time, but definitely good for some fun and laughter. Kick back and enjoy the show.

World Trade Center

World Trade Center (2006)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This really brings home the horrors of what happened inside the twin towers on 9/11. The entire world was in a panic and the nation was stricken with a suddenness that no one could have predicted. From workers jumping out of the building, the shocking impact on both buildings, and the confusion in the chaos as brave fighters tried to help those they could. This will always be a tragedy, and one that should be remembered if nothing else then for the memories of those that were lost so horribly on that fateful September day.

Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian

Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Not as good as the first film, but still hysterical with plenty of fun for all. In a new strange museum with plenty of exhibits unfamiliar to them, the new cast must call for reinforcements and find their way back home before daylight ends their escapades once more. Even Darth Vader gets put in his place by the new rampant pharaoh. What's not to laugh about?

Tangled

Tangled (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Quirky, cute, crazy and downright enjoyable. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I liked this film. There's a little bit of something in it for everyone.

His Dark Materials 1: The Golden Compass

His Dark Materials 1: The Golden Compass (2007)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Parts are entertaining, and overall it's decently made and moves fairly well as far as the story goes. I might like it more if it had a more definite conclusion. The end of the movie leaves you hanging where you know there's more to come. Unfortunately it looks as if work on the sequels is somewhere in limbo at the moment. May turn to the books at some point and see if they'll give a decent ending to this tale.

The Sorcerer's Apprentice

The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Surprisingly entertaining with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience engaged. I'm actually more interested in reading the book to get more details on this story line after having watched this film.

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day (2010)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This was a cute movie to watch for the holiday as we hadn't both seen it yet and had a free movie rental on Fandango thanks to T-Mobile Tuesdays. I had also heard a friend of mine loved it, going as far as to claim it was her new absolute favorite movie.  A lot of familiar faces from the acting world and a lot of mixed relationships. Not sure I'd want to watch it again or that it will make my favorites list for holiday movies, but it was entertaining and I'm glad we at least saw it once after all the hype we heard about it.

Flicka 2

Flicka 2 (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This city girl doesn't know one end of a horse from the other. By the time she's done though, she'll have grown up and become her own bona fide cowgirl. There's something different about Flicka that calls to the wildness inside. Now if only Flicka could come home to stay.

Fallen Angels 2: Crave

Fallen Angels 2: Crave by J.R. Ward

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Very slow getting into the book. About halfway through started to feel like I was really interested in wanting to know the story's conclusion. Not too surprising since I also had a harder time getting in to Covet. Definitely do not care for Devina at all and was a little disappointed but not all that surprised at Matthias's fate. Still admittedly prefer TBDB over FA, but still also good reads. Just enough mix of the action and romance that they don't feel over done.

View all my reviews

The Chronicles of Narnia 3: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

The Chronicles of Narnia 3: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Once again, they've outdone themselves with these films. Thoroughly enjoyable and beyond magic. Eustace-dragon is especially entertaining. Still miss the older siblings in this one a bit, and somewhat leery of the next film without even Edmond or Lucy, but still an enjoyable tale of a far away land.

Resident Evil 3: Extinction

Resident Evil 3: Extinction (2007)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Honestly at first it was interesting but now it's getting old. More of the same zombies and killing sprees. The only thing keeping you on your toes is when the next zombie will attack and who will or won't survive. It's the song that never ends, only in movie form.

Sianim 4: Wolfsbane

Sianim 4: Wolfsbane by Patricia Briggs

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This book may be Sianim #4, but as far as I can tell from the story line, it actually takes place before Steal the Dragon as that's when the missing half of the controlling spells are found, and they're noted as missing near the end of this book. Good to see more development between Aralorn & Wolf. The twist at the end is interesting and somewhat disheartening as not only do we hop from the ae'Magi to Nevyn to the Dreamer, but we then don't get anything more than Aralorn's one early story time about the Dreamer. Makes me wonder if there's another book down this series line as it is supposed to wake up again "sooner than necessary" since it didn't get to feed completely. Also would have liked to have seen more with the Lyon after he woke up rather than just comatose the whole time. The prospect of Wolf coming home to meet the family officially is rather amusing considering he's still technically on the run while being secretly married to their mercenary daughter. Lots of potential for more with these characters.

View all my reviews

The Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Proof that brains really can beat brawn. Sent to prison on two life sentences for a crime he's sure he didn't commit, Andy must find his own way back to freedom and the life he wanted to live. They all thought it was impossible. All it takes is a little brains and trust to make the impossible possible.

Anita Blake: The Laughing Corpse 3: Executioner

Anita Blake: The Laughing Corpse 3: Executioner by Laurell K. Hamilton

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Not as good as the full book, but still interesting. I'll admit part of it is just actually seeing Anita in the ridiculous pink bridesmaid dress at the end. Could be a lot more detailed for how descriptive the book is, just speaking in the character drawing department, not even the story line. Though considering it's a comic, I guess they felt they should smudge some details as a hunter series is a little more gory just on principle. Still is an interesting version bringing a new facet to life of some well known characters. Different seeing them all drawn out than imagining the details in your own mind as you read.

View all my reviews

Sianim 1: Masques

Sianim 1: Masques by Patricia Briggs

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Not the best book as far as description goes, but still a fun story and a quick read. Aralorn and Wolf are interesting to learn about. Plenty of cracks and action all around. Especially liked when Wolf started coming out of his shell and we really got behind the mask, both figuratively and literally. On to the sequel to see what happens next.

View all my reviews

Sianim 2: Steal the Dragon

Sianim 2: Steal the Dragon by Patricia Briggs

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Got into this one surprisingly quick given I was a little skeptical reading the back cover. The ending seems a little anti-climatic and leaves you hanging on what happens moving forward in the main budding relationship, but that seems to be this author's habit in many of her books. It was what drove me crazy in When Demons Walk, which is why I looked for this book as another part to the Sianim series. Mostly engaging and a quick read with very likable characters.

View all my reviews

The Guardian

The Guardian (2006)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


High School swim champion Jake Fischer learns some life lessons the hard way as legendary swimmer Ben Randall teaches him the real meaning of being a U.S. Coast Guard.

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

Between a Rock and a Hard Place by Aron Ralston

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I first heard this story on a news broadcast. Recently it was shown as a preview clip to an up-coming film about the experience. Hearing the story so fresh and seeing the locations, I wondered how someone could survive being trapped for days in a canyon and manage to cut off their own arm to escape. A co-worker had this book and offered to lend it to me. I wouldn't say it's something for the faint of heart as there are very vivid details and even pictures of the site in the book itself. If you can get through that though, it is interesting to see not only how he survived this experience, but how previous trips have gone as well while he reflects on what brought him to these circumstances. Black bears, avalanches, near drowning and ice cliffs; this guy has had a series of miracles out in the wilderness keeping him alive. This last one was no exception. As you can see from the cover, he's still out climbing today. I hope maybe just a little safer and with some better luck.

View all my reviews

The Vampire Diaries 00.1: Stefan's Diaries: Origins

The Vampire Diaries 00.1: Stefan's Diaries: Origins by L.J. Smith

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


I was actually very disappointed in this book as it follows the newly released TV series' story line instead of the original history set & spoken of by Stephan in the original series. This would have been much better if it would have expanded on the original series instead of deviating so much into CW's territory.

View all my reviews

Vampire Memories 3: Memories of Envy

Vampire Memories 3: Memories of Envy by Barb Hendee

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


More about Phillip and Simone than any of the other characters. Not as much Wade as I would have liked and Eleisha comes of weaker than ever. A little disappointing, but picks up a bit towards the middle of the book. Interested to see if they do anything interesting with Julian's involvement in the next one.

View all my reviews

Allie Beckstrom 2: Magic In the Blood

Allie Beckstrom 2: Magic In the Blood by Devon Monk

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Fast read once I got into it. Not as much as I would have liked to seen between the main characters. Not sure what I think about how the book ended. Think I'll have to see what they do with the lead in book 3 to decide if it's worth it or not.

View all my reviews

Allie Beckstrom 1: Magic to the Bone

Allie Beckstrom 1: Magic to the Bone by Devon Monk

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Took a little bit to get into initially, but after really sitting down with it the last two evenings, I was able to finish it off pretty quickly. Interesting twist to a magic perspective.

View all my reviews

Nikki Heat 2: Naked Heat

Nikki Heat 2: Naked Heat by Richard Castle

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Entertaining and engaging as any Castle story. Even more so if you're a fan of the TV show and familiar with the characters. Makes for a very amusing quick read.

View all my reviews

Infernal Devices 1: Clockwork Angel

Infernal Devices 1: Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Not as good as the original trilogy, but not as bad as I feared from the reviews I'd read on other sites. It didn't absorb me as much as her other books, but I still enjoyed the story. Will still likely read the sequel when it comes out.

View all my reviews

Mercedes Thompson 5: Silver Borne

Mercedes Thompson 5: Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is probably one of my favorite continuing series. The author does an excellent job keeping things consistent and interesting throughout the series. Each book adds something new that just keeps bringing readers back to it. Can't say I really have a hands down favorite of this series yet as I enjoy all of them so much. Eagerly awaiting the next one.

View all my reviews

Byrnehouse-Davies & Hamilton 7: By Love & Grace

Byrnehouse-Davies & Hamilton 7: By Love & Grace by Anita Stansfield

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is one of my favorite books ever. I often come back to it when I want something familiar and good to read or need a pick-a-me-up. Wonderful, very touching and realistic story.

View all my reviews

The Five Love Languages

The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Great book with lots of interesting information. Gave me a very different perspective on some of my relationships & how I interact with people.

View all my reviews

Twilight 5: Midnight Sun

Twilight 5: Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Like many other fans, I've read what Stephanie put up on her own website. I dearly wish she'd finish it though as it leaves you hanging a lot and is a great point of view from another character. Not bad at all, especially for a "rough draft."

View all my reviews

Twilight 4: Breaking Dawn

Twilight 4: Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


By far the least popular book of the series, and with good reason. Mostly revolving around Renesmee. Learning more about Bella's unique situation and why Edward can't read her is cool. The confrontation with the Volturi is anti-climatic, and what happens with Jacob.... well that was coming from a mile away and kinda sick when you think about it being a kid. Still a fast read with enjoyable characters though. Win some and lose some I guess.

View all my reviews

Harry Potter 4: The Goblet of Fire

Harry Potter 4: The Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I'll admit this one is partially one of my favorites from the series because of Sirius Black and the Order. The series took a tailspin for me after this book as I much prefer Sirius alive and interacting with Harry. The challenges were also interesting to me rather than just the usual "what is Voldermort doing" though that was still underlying everything. Mad Moody is also a very interesting character.

View all my reviews

The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ

The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


THE most influential book you will ever read. As stated by the title it is ANOTHER testament of Jesus Christ. This book goes hand in hand with the Bible in proclaiming the truth Christ himself taught on the earth. So many stories and messages relevant to life now despite how long ago either book was written. Truly meant for these latter days.

View all my reviews

Secretariat

Secretariat (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A must see for any horse lover. Secretariat is the story of the race horse who defied the odds to become the first Triple Crown winner in 25 years, winning the last race by the greatest distance yet. As a horse race film, Seabiscuit was a better movie, but this is just as heartwarming and fun to watch.

Harry Potter 7: The Deathly Hallows Part 1

Harry Potter 7: The Deathly Hallows Part 1 (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


As thrilling and exciting as the rest of the series. Now on the run with Voldemort and his Death Eaters taking over, they must find and destroy the Horcruxes before Voldemort can be destroyed for good. Part one of the final epic tale in the series, there's plenty of action for everyone. Even a good Hermoine/Harry scene we don't get in the book. Now to see how part 2 resolves it all.

Robin Hood

Robin Hood (2010)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A fun new take on the age old story of Robin Hood. Beginning with the war that supposedly kills their king, Robin Hood and his men must make their way back home before beginning to help fight against the corrupt sheriff and try to win the spirited Maid Marion's hand.

Salt

Salt (2010)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


CIA officer Evelyn Salt must prove her own innocence and show the real traitor before accusations of being a Russian spy destroy her. The answers aren't as easy as they seem however, as the further the plot goes, the more questions are brought up. Just who is Salt?

Inception

Inception (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This movie is beyond complex and intense. Be careful what you dream, it just may follow you. The lines between reality and unreality blur as your life changes in your own subconscious. Pay attention or you might not be able to tell which is which.

Professor Layton 1: The Curious Village

Professor Layton 1: The Curious Village (Nintendo DS)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is a storyline game where you find various puzzles and find clues to solve the mystery. I enjoy puzzles, so the games are fun. The only downside is that sometimes it is difficult to find the puzzle, or they won't show it to you even when you go right by it. So the only way to find/solve some of them is to visit the puzzle shack. Other than that, enjoy the brainteasers!

The Twilight Saga 3: Eclipse

The Twilight Saga 3: Eclipse (2010)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


If for no other reason, I have to give this film props for the awkward sex talk scene between Bella and her father. Talk about the perfect crack up! It also nice to see more with the wolves as they trained with the Cullens for the pending battle. Jacob!wolf acting rather dog-ish as Bella pets him while still showing the intelligence to acknowledge her in his alternate form is both amazing and hilarious. As with in the books, it was a very nice change of pace to see the two sides working together instead of only pulling Bella in opposite directions. Of course the alliance wouldn't be complete without some tension between Bella's two beaus. The scene especially earned some laughs. This film really did highlight Bella's own selfishness and indecision as she yo-yos between Jacob's and Edward's emotions. Lots of hard and fast decisions flying around for characters so young to begin with.