April 30, 2014
Black Dagger Brotherhood 8: Lover Mine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book drove me a little crazy, despite being great with so many different insights and details. Xhex and John's story has been developing for a long time, and it kept that trend even though this was "their" book that brought things to a head. There are a few things that will drive you crazy though.
1. The connection between John and Darius. This has been danced around for a long time, and will continue to be. It's amazing that so many different people notice it (movement, mannerisms, body build, the echo in the brain), yet no one has figured out what it means in truth.
2. Payne and Vishous. It's a little disturbing to have that bomb dropped where apparently Payne was fully aware of Vishous and missing him dearly, but he had no clue about her. Even with that shocker, nothing more is shown or revealed in this book. You'll have to move on to the next one for any answers there.
3. The flash backs with Darius are interesting, but can feel rather distracting from the main story line until the end of the book. No'One presents as many questions as she does answers, but that makes for another interesting twist with Xhex. Who would have ever imagined that her hellren's previous persona was the very one who saved and named her. Fate?
4. Throwing Muhrder back into the mix at the end. That just seemed somewhat cruel and potentially dangerous for Xhex. On the other hand, if he is in fact still alive, having another Brother in the war would be a benefit.
5. Speaking of Brothers, John has yet to be inducted. Everyone says he's Darius's son, he was born with the Brotherhood scar, and already knows his true name. He fights in the war and lives with the Brothers. All this aside, he's yet to be inducted, which makes other people (like Xhex) referring to him as a Brother seem both natural and awkward at the same time.
6. Blay and Qhuinn are getting very painful, and that one is likely to get a lot worse than it gets better. Something about good intentions going awry might apply here. Qhuinn reminds me a bit of an ostrich burying his head in the sand rather than facing things.
In the end though, things are working out for the best. The first turning point isn't so much finding Xhex as when she helps facilitate John and Tohrment's reunion. Those two needed to get back together again badly. That paves the way for John's healing, which in turn makes it easier for Xhex to see what really matters at the end. If not for all those connections and John having opened back up to her, regardless of their agreement to go their separate ways at the end, it is unlikely things would have turned out as well as they did.
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April 28, 2014
Black Dagger Brotherhood 7: Lover Avenged
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
Ehlena is a good character, and more realistic for her combination of rational and gut reactions to things that keep her more real. The only exception perhaps to this would be her easy acceptance of Rhevenge bonding with her, though even there she keeps her level head with the reality of bonding not equaling a mating. At least not initially. Really, there's nothing either of them can do about it either. With this and Rhevenge's secret on the line, it's little surprise that he pulls back from her the way he does. Even with all of that to consider though, he's the only one of the males who hasn't immediately run scared or tried to change the fact that he was bonded. That's a refreshing change.
John and Xhex are just painful this time around. There's a little sign of hope at the end with Johon referring to Xhex as his mate, but that doesn't change a whole lot when she's still missing and he still has a boat load of issues to deal with, especially between him and Tohrment. It's good to see Tohrment finally making some progress after that tailspin he's still in at the start. Still could end up being a case of too little too late, but there's still hope now that both look to be rebounding.
Wrath and Rhevenge as the two big kings at the end though? Yeah, that could either end up being very sticky (with Rhevenge still wanting the vampire life with Ehlena) or a very good thing. It would seem after assassination attempts, keeping each other's secrets, and now this big rescue, that Wrath and Rhevenge should have a pretty good feel for each other. Rhevenge's thoughts towards Wrath would certainly hint towards a good working relationship in the future.
This story felt like it dragged a little more the second time through, but I think that had more to do with how Rhevenge had previously felt like he was more on the sidelines and Ehlena basically came out of nowhere than anything else. The set up makes sense for a lot of future details and how things need to be able to play from here on out, but feels a little out of place after going through the Brotherhood in quick succession.
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April 26, 2014
Black Dagger Brotherhood 6: Lover Enshrined
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This one is more of an emotional roller coaster than the other so far, and that's saying something especially after Zsadist's train wreck with denial. On the plus side, Phury is the only male that has recognized and acknowledged the entire bonding reality from the start. That does not, however, mean that he does any better of a job acting on it. Instead of accepting it and being happy, he managed to nearly destroy everything important to him, including his potential happiness with his shellan. There is a lot of upheaval as Phury nearly caves to his addictions before finally turning things around at the very end. It's rather heartbreaking just how badly everything will fall apart before they start getting better.
On the other hand, all that heart break and turmoil makes the ending that much sweeter. It is especially a pleasant surprise how easily the Scribe Virgin agrees to Phury's plan. This new world order will take some getting used to for everyone, and it's an odd thought that Phury won't be with the rest of the brothers all of the time any more, but it also makes sense to keep the Chosen in a more secluded home of their own at least until they've adjusted to their new lives.
Lash is another surprise, though it really shouldn't have been. He's spelled trouble from day one. Having someone with all the vampire's secrets on the inside definitely not a good thing for the Brotherhood. It would have been interesting to have seen more of how Lash ended up with his vampire family and just what they thought of his addition to the family as he obviously was not in fact their perfect first born as everyone claims. There's enough evidence left behind of his change in loyalty that it's rather disappointing it hasn't come out yet.
Thor is the other big surprise this time around. There's always been this lingering mixture of hope and denial that Thor would be seen again. The silver lining so far is that sudden hug with John. If not for that, it would still be a question if there was any hope of breaking through the sorrow at all.
There's still a lot left in the air at the end of this one, especially regarding Phury and the Brotherhood. The good thing is that it does look like some positive changes are happening that will lead to better things in the future.
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April 25, 2014
Tinker Bell 5: The Pirate Fairy
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
Zarina is the first of a new type of fairy - alchemy. Originally a dust keeper, she has Tink's same insatiable drive to learn new things. This leaves to her feeling driven out and outcast as she does not follow the rules at all - sounds familiar. It should come as little surprise then, that when Zarina thinks she's leading the pirates and steals the blue dust, that it would be up to Tink and her friends to save both the dust and their lost friend. There is also the bonus of a few other characters from the original Peter Pan. See if you can identify Captain Hook, Smee and the crocodile in their younger forms. It would appear that perhaps the fairies were the pirates opponents long before Peter Pan himself came on the scene.
Black Dagger Brotherhood 5: Lover Unbound
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Yup, still love the books. This unexpected second read-through hasn't changed that. Vishous has always been the smart one, but somewhat out on the edges until Butch came along. The cop has been his safe haven without bad habit attachments for so long that it's little surprise he's attached. This book definitely puts that attachment into perspective for him, along with lighting up his otherwise rather serious mood behind all his playful comebacks. More than a few kicks in this book between learning about V's mom, his sister, and his shellan all together. Granted no one else knows about his sister besides dear mom yet, but neither did any of the readers until now.
John's transformation has been expected for awhile, and I couldn't claim any surprise over how that went down. More hints of Darius all around. Have to admit I'm a little surprised everyone is still buying the entire "son" idea and no ones thought of the alternative. Memory flashes from another life, pre-branded as a Brother, instinctive fighting style that perfectly matches D... really? No one is even going to knock on that door? Not that he's been all that talkative about the memory flashes, but still - it's something that could become more further down the road.
Manny also is another character to pay attention to here. Outside of the fact that he really does need to respect boundaries with Jane, he's a likable enough character. Turns out both V and Jane's little side thoughts about him will end up being important later down the road.
Jane as a ghost.... now that is a strange one. On the one hand, it solves the possible death scenario just like Mary is now in the clear, and keeps her with V long term. She's still able to set up shop to be the Brother's private physician. Still, it's more than a little outside the norm so far and will take some getting used to. We were already learning a new bag of tricks for V's hand with the whole balancing out Butch's abilities and healing piece. Turns out there's another benefit now with his mate.
Phury on the other hand, is on a tailspin of self destruction. For all that they've seen the signs so many times now, he's willfully blind as a bat with Cormia at the moment. This is not helped by his on-going obsession with Bella. Still, the step in for Vishous as the Primale was a good move, and likely his long time saving grace given the way he was headed prior to the decision. Phury is hard not to like from the start given his more easy manner and the way he tries to take care of everyone. While it's a good thing that he is able and willing to step in for Vishous, it's also hard not to feel sorry for him. Seems like he's the only one so far who doesn't know what he's looking for and isn't really happy. John could be lumped in the same category for the moment even though he isn't really a Brother yet. These two are the ones to watch out for.
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April 24, 2014
The Croods 1
The Croods 1 (2013)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Despite a lot of humor and amusement at the trailers when they first aired and a definite love for a lot of Dreamworks' original features, it took me awhile to get around to watching this one. The caveman theme does get a little old at times, but the character portrayal is so over the top that it is highly entertaining. Nothing is as it seems as this cave family follows their unexpected ally/friend to the ends of the earth, picking up some unlikely furry friends along the way. The over protective father figure is, of course, the last to come around. Though you can't help but be annoyed with him earlier on, it all serves a purpose by the time the end of the film rolls around. Just keep waiting - you'll like how it turns out. Can't say it was entertaining enough to top Rise of the Guardians, How to Train Your Dragon or Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron on my favorites list, but it was still another good family film.
April 23, 2014
Black Dagger Brotherhood 4: Lover Revealed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another one that was rated the first time and being written about the second time through. I can't claim to love this one as much as the first three, but it is definitely still high on my favorites list. The romance almost takes a back seat here as a lot of questions are answered all over the board - about Vishous, Butch, Marissa, and what's going on with the lessers. There's also a lot of education going on for John as he copes without Thorment that was sorely needed. It's rather impressive to see how much Zsadist has stepped up to the plate since his recent spotlight in just the last book. As well as Butch and Marissa have fit together from day one, they learn there's a lot more to making a relationship work than just lust or love. Really have to like Marissa standing up for herself with the Council meeting and how she's handling creating her Safe Place. The whole naive damsel didn't work, but this determined attitude to do things her way and learn as she goes fits really well with the rest of the main cast. Can't help but both laugh and cringe at the scenes featuring Butch and the Scribe Virgin. If not for his own fierce desire to be part of something he truly cares about, it would be very easy indeed to believe Butch had a death wish, especially with the way he takes V on just before the whole bloodline revelation. It was a nice touch to get the details on just how the fangs came into the family from his mother at the end, even if it was telling the story to his sister without any mention of vampires at all. Overall, too well detailed and well paced to not enjoy.
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Black Dagger Brotherhood 3: Lover Awakened
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The first time I read this was actually prior to the start of my Good Reads days, so the stars are from the original read, and the commentary is from take 2.
I loved the book because of how much more depth Zsadist has compared to some of the brothers at the moment. It was a relief to find characters (Bella and Mary) who was willing to look past his appearance and actually find what was underneath. Heaven knows the guy needed it as his brother wasn't enough. Can't help but feel a little sorry for Phury since he basically gets pushed away and ignored by Bella while Zsadist keeps trying to force them together. That has to be an awkward combination. Zsadist would definitely be one who needs a partner who knows her own mind and is willing to stick to her guns as he's even more withdrawn and in denial than most of the Brothers appear to be. This is a very stark contrast to how he is at the end of the book.
Finding out the Reverend and Rehvenge, Bella's brother, are one in the same, is still awkward the second time around. Also can't help but feel sorry for Butch and Marissa. That's another pairing that's having a very rough start. These boys just can't do things the easy way.
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April 22, 2014
Black Dagger Brotherhood 2: Lover Eternal
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
So apparently I unintentionally set myself into a re-read marathon mode, though I have no clue how long it will last before my ever-growing to-read pile pulls me back.
I really like how cohesive the stories are between books despite each one focusing on a different relationship. This one not only covers Rhage and Mary's romance, but introduces Zsadist's story for the next book as well as bringing in John Matthews and the Chosen, all of which will play large parts in the stories as they move forward. I'd have to admit that my favorite part of Rhage/Mary is how the relationship unintentionally tames his beast rather than the whole battling cancer scenario. Definitely does not resolve that problem in the expected way given the genre, but I think it's better that way. Honestly still surprised there hasn't been any biting though given Rhage is a vampire and Mary even tells him she wants him to at one point. Other than a few minor details like that feeling off, the overall book is enjoyable. Much more emotional turmoil and fast paced now that a lot of the basic introductions are over with. You still get a recap when Mary meets the Brotherhood for the first time, but not as in depth. As always, still glad they kept Butch around too. Can't help but feel sorry for him with the entire Marissa situation a little disappointed that his story was put off for so long, though I suppose it melds better with his end results regarding the Brotherhood.
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April 21, 2014
Kate & Leopold
Kate & Leopold (2001)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Kate and her actor brother live in N.Y. in the 21st Century. Her ex-boy friend, Stuart, lives above her apartment and finds this space near the Brooklyn Bridge where there is a gap in time. He goes back to the eighteen hundreds and takes pictures of the place. Leopold, a man living in the 1870's, was puzzled by Stuart's tiny camera and decides to follow him and they both ended up in this century. Leopold is clueless about his new surroundings. He gets help and insights from Charlie who thinks that Leopold is an actor who is always in character. Leopold is a highly intelligent man and tries his best to learn and even improve the modern conveniences that he encounters.
- listalKate does not believe Stuart's claims of time travel in the least, even when she sees Leopold for herself. It isn't until after a lot of interaction and finally paying attention, partially thanks to her theater buff brother who is convinced Leopold must be a great actor himself at first, drags everything out into the open. It isn't until she sees the impossible pictures at the very end that reality finally sinks in and this unlikely couple finds their happily ever after. Very mellow on both ends of the spectrum (romance and comedy), but they meet in the middle for an amusing affair that leave you both heartbroken and cheering with laughter through the tale.
Kiesha'ra 2: Snakecharm
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The sequel is told from Zane's point of view instead of Danica's as the first one is. For anyone wanting more progression between our favorite rulers however, you'll be left disappointed. Outside of the fact that Danica is pregnant, more happens revolving the visiting falcons and subsequent loss/retrieval of their people than any real growth with the main pair. The foundation is set for Wyvern's Court, which is where the next book will take place, but that's pretty much it outside of Danica's fainting spells and frequent market skirmishes, largely pointed out by their unwanted visitor. It's still enjoyable, and a nice change to get Zane's view of things, but not as engaging as the original.
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Kiesha'ra 1: Hawksong
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have to admit, Danica and Zane are a favorite of mine when it comes to Amelia's books. Monarchs of two very different lands at war with each other for so long neither side truly remembers how it started anymore, they are desperate to find peace and save what little remains of their families. No one seems to believe a hawk and a cobra can love each other, but it seems all their challenges and doubts will push them further to that end. Danica has her avian reserve that she wraps around herself with like a shield, while Zane uses his own fierce emotions to channel his actions, marking him for the lethal and quick cobra he is. Neither of these characters are by any means shy or needy. Rather they are both strong and learn to lean on each other equally as they grow together.
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Black Dagger Brotherhood 1: Dark Lover
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
After having just read The King, I had to come back to the beginning of Beth and Wrath's story. Not that they ever completely left the picture despite the "couples" themes of the books, but this was definitely the focus on the two of them. Can't help but like how the Brotherhood are not your typical vampires. Also must admit to liking the variety in the girls. Beth is certainly not your typical head over heels damsel in distress. Part of me feels sorry for Butch with his part in this first installment, but it all ends in his favor. The lessers don't manage to hold my attention nearly as well as the Brotherhood, but I suppose that's little surprise. Still good to pay attention at least the first time through so you know what's going on, especially with the Omega. After all this time, I have to admit Wrath and Beth are probably still my favorites.
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April 17, 2014
Aladdin
Aladdin (1994)
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
Like with many of the Disney Afternoon shows, the TV series does not match up to the artwork of the original movie in the least. Aside from that, it does contain a fun series of snippets into the lives of the original characters, focusing mostly on Aladdin. Everyone else you mostly get as a by-product of what that particular adventure will drag into the mix. Still, I have fond memories of this one as well from my own childhood and look forward to watching it with my daughter.
Gargoyles
Gargoyles (1994)
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
I have fond memories of watching this series as part of the Disney Afternoon when I was growing up. Don't really remember the last season, and the artwork definitely changes dramatically between the first two seasons and the last, but it is still nice to have some actual closure for the Gargoyles. Never really did tie things up with Elisa and Goliath, but I don't suppose that was ever truly going to happen so long as they remained different species. I find it highly amusing to have recently rediscovered this series and see the excitement in my own daughter when it plays.
The Vampire Diaries 12: The Salvation: Unspoken
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As you might be able to tell from how long it took me to finish this book (2 months), this series is failing to hold my attention horribly. Sad considering that I loved the originals. The further these ghost writers go, the more it feels like they are warping the characters and just keep beating it to death so it keeps going in line with the TV series. Disappointing to be sure.
Stefan is dead, but that can't exclude him from a final all-understanding appearance at the end of the book. What's a main character death without a dramatic return and kind farewell, right? After all, Damon and Elena both got to come back to life and stay. Stefan doesn't get that honor though.
Damon and Elena's relationship progresses more slowly and naturally this time around, which is a bit of a relief while also being a little unreliable given the number of times to two have fallen and fought against each other all along. As hoaky as it would have been, I almost would have believed the immediate snatch and keep scenario more, especially with Damon's possessive streak.
Meredith is now one of the monsters.... but apparently the Guardians deem these "man made creations" and therefore still human. That little plot twist is saved for the very end to put Elena's life on the line again after just a couple of pages of happy resolution.
Overall, everyone is happily paired off. There is no longer one loner left out on the wings pining after someone else's partner in their little group. Half of them are married while the others appear to be close to same line of thought. And now Damon has to save Elena from yet another supernatural disaster of their own doing. I get the feeling forcing myself to read the next book will be a bit of a chore, though I also seriously hope it is the last.
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Your Personal Penguin
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Not my favorite of the Boynton books, but still cute. For whatever reason, this one features a penguin that wants to belong to a hippopotamus, thus the entire book repeats the phrase "I want to be your personal penguin" with occasional reasons why this should be allowed. Not practical or overly engaging, but cute none-the-less. We got the book originally because of Mercy's attachment to her stuffed penguin from her uncle. It took a little bit for her to warm up to this book, but she now happily recognizes the penguins on the page as she hugs her own stuffed sleep buddy.
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Black Dagger Brotherhood 12: The King
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Another quick read and nice installment to the series, but not as hot as some of the others. A large portion of this book is rehashing the scared about pregnancy issues, only to learn it was a moot point since it had already happened. Despite the emotional roller coaster, it seems Beth is the only one overall keeping her head with the whole King and ruling the people bit, which is strange. The flashbacks to Wrath's parents are interesting, but it didn't feel like they really served a necessary purpose. Then there's the Chosen... too accommodating. Layla just can't seem to get over this self sacrifice mode, which is bogus. Really, she and Xcor need to get with the program and join the Brotherhood officially so all this turmoil can finally be laid to rest, especially with the proverbially carpet being pulled out from the Band. Selena is another Chosen who needs a reality check, as does Trez (maybe in the next book since it appears to focus on him and iAm). Then there's Assail and Sola; another situation of denial and in need of a reality check.... and some hard truth talks. So basically this entire thing was about Wrath coming to terms with ruling as himself and having a family. Nothing else notable truly happened.
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April 5, 2014
Marvel Cinematic Universe 09: Captain America 2 [The Winter Soldier]
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Captain America was not originally one of my favorite Marvel characters, but I have to admit to thoroughly loving the films. The Avengers showed Captain moving into his new age and position, though he took on more of the role of soldier again with S.H.I.E.L.D. than being a captain. The sequel brought out what was loved in the original Captain America as he once again stands for justice and takes charge of the field. A little miffed that despite often references to Stark technology and knowing connection with Iron Man, an appearance wasn't made, even to the extent of a simple phone call, when it was that same technology that was the crux of the Hydra/S.H.I.E.L.D. uprising. This was rather a bit of a disappointment, especially with the knowledge of the upcoming Avengers sequel bringing the team back together already. It was obvious that something was wrong with S.H.I.E.L.D., though I'll admit to not expecting it to go as far back as World War II and the original Hydra until the doctor came up in the lab. The Black Widow takes on a new look this time around; I almost didn't recognize her if not for the common use of her real name. It will also be interesting to see how this story fits with what has been happening in Marvel Agents of S.H.I.E.D., as it typically seems to fit fairy closely with the movies. Overall though, another fun installment, either as a sequel, part of the overall series, or a stand alone film. Definitely one to add to the collection.
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