The key to a girl’s heart is books and board games. ~Movie Reviews

Seeing others rate Christmas Hallmark movies over the holiday inspired me to watch more new releases this year and share my ratings.  Below I have ranked the new releases I have watched in January, from my least to most favorite. 

A Winter Getaway was a 2/5 for me. I liked the lead actors and the storyline, but the overall chemistry did not work well for me. I would not watch this movie again.

Two for the Win was a 3/5. The acting was decent, but the story did not really interest me. I am not a fan of winter sports. I would not watch again. 

Snowkissed stars two of my favorite hallmark actors. This cute movie set in beautiful Canada was fun. 4/5. I would watch again. 

Taking a Shot at Love was a 4/5. I am not a fan of hockey, but I did enjoy the ballet, the good acting, and the sweet story. I would watch again.

 

Finding 'Ohana is a Netflix Original. This film was funny adventure the whole family enjoyed. 5/5. I would watch again. 

A New Year's Resolution was my favorite of the month. This movie had a different feel than the usual Hallmark releases. I enjoyed the friendships and the chemistry between the lead couple. The bit of mystery was also a plus. The high light was a date with board games and books and this quote, 

"The key to a girl’s heart is books and board games."

5/5 I would enjoy watching this again soon.

Coming next month: 

 

 

What is in a name~Book Review

 

I received a free copy of this story from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.

To survive a harsh reality, a slave give must use her skill and whit to survive. She takes the names of the roles she is forced to play, even though she does not have the privilege of her own name. A.L. Sowards is another first-time author for me and reading Of Sword and Shadow is an adventure I will not soon forget. The author weaved an exciting tale of danger, romance, and faith from the first page to the last. Though the book is not short, the gripping plot and strong characters took me on a face-paced historical journey. I enjoyed the Biblical parallels that reminds readers of God’s character, love, and the sacrifice He made to purchase our freedom. They story was not only enjoyable, but also made me really think of the of freedom, what is costs and what is taken for granted. If you enjoy historical, action-packed, inspirational fiction I highly recommend this book. 4.7/5

Favorite Story Passages and Quotes:

"I don't remember the name my mother gave me. Nor can I recall each of the hundreds of names I've used since. But the morning I was to steal five sheets of paper from Don Paco de Folgueres, I would be Anna, if anyone asked." This first introduction to the protagonist made me want to learn more of her story and hooked me from the start.

"But he had things I envied, a birthday and a name." Things I never thought of taken for granted before.

"I was certain there were better ways to spend the money than on revenge." Smart. You're spending your money wrong.

"I lingered in the coolness, watching the light expose and conceal, soften and reveal." I loved this play on words.

"Didn't he realize that with a threat like death, I would run faster, not slower?" Funny and true.

"His things were a mess, much like mine were. But he never kept his room tidy, so I wasn't sure anyone had actually ransacked his chamber." This made me laugh.

"I can also feel something like a pair of stallions competing in a tournament inside my head." Best description for a headache ever!

"I smiled, but I didn't laugh. Laughter was a luxury reserved for others." Another thing I never thought about taking for granted.

"I glanced at the stars. They looked much as they always did, distant and cold. I supposed Gil was right, and they were beautiful too." I have never thought of stars as anything other than beautiful. It was interesting to read another point of view.

"I am happy because God made a beautiful world, and thanks to your help and the archbishop's antidote, I am still alive to see it.' He held his hand out, gesturing to the sky and the landscape. 'Look at the was the clouds move and the way the flowers bud and the way your hair catches the sunlight. There is beauty everywhere." 

"There is beauty in a storm. Danger too. Just like a woman.' 'Women don't rain on you.' The first drops pricked against my skin. Gil's smile faded. 'Don't they?' 'No. Women do not rain.' But I wouldn't argue the dangerous  part. 'It felt like it when my father dies. My mother's tears and my sister's. They were like rainstorms. Or your tears when you kissed my hands. Like a warm rain.' That was when I concluded that we should not split up."

"In the story, why didn't the man condemn the woman?" "Because He is a God of second chances."

"I hadn't met many people who could whisper a song, let alone do so while filling it with so much raw emotion, but Gild was unlike anyone else I'd ever met. It shouldn't have surprised me."

"Will you save me, God?"

"For the first time since setting out, I didn't feel frightened. Somewhere nearby, a swallow sang-lilting notes of hope and freedom."

"I've learned God is less concerned with the words that come from our lips and more concerned with the sincerity that comes from our hearts."

"Was I ready? To pull this off, I would need all the skills I had learned as a little mouse. I would need the wisdom of an Anna, the courage of a Theodora, the determination of an Irene, and the boldness on an Isabella. And I would need the confidence that had come, for a brief time, when I had been loved as a Eudocia."

"I think a future with you is the kind of future I want most."

"There was magic in that kiss-it was a healing balm, a promise, and a new beginning."

"I think your lips are my favorite kind of beauty."

KOTLC: Unlocked ~ Book Review

Out of all the Keeper’s books, this one took me longest to read. The slow pace was because most of the story (first 500 pages) was like reading a textbook. I kept reading the guide thinking I would learn something I did not already know from reading the previous books in the series. While there might have been a few facts, overall, the guide just included in depth descriptions of things readers of the series already know. I did enjoy the illustrations and quizzes. The guide itself, I would rate a 3/5. I would have preferred the energy and time being focused on a full-length continuation of the story instead of having to wait that much longer to find out what happens next.

The novella is exactly what I was hoping for, I just wish it had been longer. The story and characters seemed more honest and real than in past installments. And, finally, something was happening. But I do not know if an ending has ever made me so mad. I seriously wanted to throw my copy of the 747-page hardback at something or someone, like maybe Keefe, or the author. Keefe is my favorite character in the series and Book 9 will be dull if he is not in it for most of the story. The cliff hanger would not be as bad if there were more information about when the next release will be. For now, it is back to waiting for release date, title, and cover info. Novella rating 4.8/5.

Overall rating 4.5/5.

 

Everything and more! The Thief of Blackfriars Lane by Michelle Griep, my first five-star read of the year!

 

I received a free ARC of this story from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

“For want of a properly working pocket watch, Jackson Forge failed to save the world today—or at least the City of London. Now he’d be lucky to save himself.”

With this beginning as an indicator, I had a feeling that I was in for a great read. And it was everything! Every raving review I had read, every five-star rating, everything I was hoping for and more. Rarely do I form a final opinion about a story until I finish, but this was an exception. I rated it a five-star read from the first page and by the time I was halfway finished, I was ordering a paperback copy, knowing that it would be an instant favorite. From interesting characters and thrilling plots, to surprising twists and unexpected conclusions, this story was a non-stop adventure from beginning to end. The author’s writing style has a unique tone that perfectly balances detail and dialogue to fully immerse readers into the characters’ lives. This is a full length novel, but so fast-paced and addictive it can easily be read in one sitting if real life doesn't interrupt. I love Jackson and Kit and would enjoy reading more of their adventures!

Another reviewer wrote this story is reminiscent of Zootopia without the animals and it is true. I thought the resemblance was neat since Zootopia is another favorite of mine.

The Thief of Blackfriars Lane is the first book I have read by Michelle Griep and I am excited to read more of her past and future releases!

Below are a few more of my favorite quotes:

“Then he shoved his arms and legs into the blue woolen dream he’d clung to since boyhood.” The imagery here is unbelievably good.

“The woman could hold her own facing a pack of wolves while wearing a pair of wrist cuffs.” An accurate description of Kit, and one reason I am a fan.

“A small smile rippled across his lips. He’d never witnessed such boldness in a skirt before. The way she bartered with Skaggs. How, without flinching, she’d trudged through tunnels that could make a grown man faint. She was a feisty one, he’d give her that. A real fighter. He could appreciate such bravery and resourcefulness, especially when it came in such a comely package.” Someone is smitten.

“But as soon as his gaze landed on her, his jaw went slack. He couldn’t have put two words together if someone jammed a gun to his head. No man could. With her emerald green gown clinging to such shapely curves, the woman would silence a raging battalion of hellbent men, A slow smile lifted her lips. ‘You’re staring, Mr. Forge.’ ‘Pardon. My mind was elsewhere.’ Torchlight danced in her eyes. ‘And where might that be?” I loved the easy humor and witty banter through this book.

“She flashed a smile. ‘Broken hearts are not my specialty.’ Hah! He nearly chocked. She’d left at least ten casualties en route from the hall to the ballroom.”

“A reputation is only what others think of you. Character is what matters. That is who you really are.” The truth of these words really resonated with me.

“Time stopped, then. Right there. On a busy London street just outside the ugly grey stones of Newagate prison, his touch warming her.” *happy sigh*

Misfit ~The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus book review

Started: 11.2.20

Finished: 1.3.20

Rating 4/5

Although I enjoy Christian fiction, historical time slips, I have never been a huge fan of circus themes. Knowing this, I would have never selected to read the latest release from Jamie Jo Wright on my own. When I received a copy in a Faith and Fiction book box release, I was hopeful I would enjoy this highly recommended book and author.

Unfortunately, it was a slow start for me. To be fair I was reading five books at once, so I may have been distracted. The pace of the story did not pick up until around 200 pages in. By this time, I realized what the book lacked for me. Not only was the author too descriptive, but there were no characters I connected with. I was far enough along, though, that I wanted to finish. The ending was exciting, unexpected, and what overall redeemed the book for me.

Jamie Jo Wright is an award-winning writer; whose talent is evident. This story just wasn’t really my type of read. I am not anxious to read another by this author (a new one for me) any time soon, but I may try another of her books in the future. Although, many of this author’s other works sound pretty similar to this story only placed in other settings.

As for The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus, I may shelve my copy and give it another try later on. There are other books I have read before that I disliked more than this one and loved upon re-reading.

If you have read this book, what were your thoughts? Did you enjoy any of the author’s other books better?

Nothing but horses, ink stains, and novel castles ~ A Little Women book review

 

Started: 11.2.20

Finished: 12.28.20

Rating 5/5

I finally read Little Women by Louisa May Alcott! Now I see why this book is classic. Reading this, I felt like I was reconnecting with distant relatives. The author succeeds in inviting readers to become a part of the March family as they navigate the ups and downs over the span of a year. By the end of the story the growth for readers equals that of the characters. I am beyond delighted that there are three more books that continue the story!

I started reading the Kindle version of this story and, once I knew it would be a favorite, I looked for a print copy and found a keepsake reproduction of the classic books as seen in the 2019 film! This edition includes beautiful black and white photos from the movie!

Here are some of my favorite quotes:

“There are many Beths in the world, shy and quiet, sitting in corners till needed, and living for others so cheerfully that no one sees the sacrifices till the little cricket on the hearth stops chirping, and the sweet, sunshiny presence vanishes, leaving silence and shadow behind.” (p.40) We shouldn’t take people for granted.

“I don’t envy her much, in spite of her money, for after all rich people have about as many worries as poor ones, I think,” Jo March, (p.42) True, money can’t buy happiness.

“How they all laughed at her because [Beth] woke Amy in the night by playing the piano on her face in her sleep.” (p.57) This made me laugh. I can totally see this happening with my siblings.

“for love casts out fear,” (p.61) God is love <3

“and led by her mother’s hand, she had drawn nearer to the Friend who always welcomes every child with a love stronger than that of any father, tenderer than that of any mother.” (p.78) God’s love is like no other.

“I want my daughters to be beautiful, accomplished, and good. To be admired, loved, and respected. To have a happy youth, to be well and wisely married, and to lead useful, pleasant lives, with as little care and sorrow to try them as God sees fit to send. To be loved and chosen by a good man is the best and sweetest thing which can happen to a woman, and I sincerely hope my girls may know this beautiful experience. It is natural to think of it, Meg, right to hope and wait for it, and wise to prepare for it, so that when the happy time comes, you may feel ready for the duties and worthy of the joy. Money is a needful and precious thing-and when well used, a noble thing-but I never want you to think it is the first or only prize to strive for. I’d rather see you poor men’s wives, if you were happy, beloved, contented, than queens on thrones, without self-respect and peace. Make this home happy, so that you may be fit for homes of your own, if they are offered you, and contented here if they are not.” (p.93) The simple beauty of a mother’s wish.

“How they laughed when the secret came out, never dreaming how many love letters that little post office would hold in the years to come.” (p.104) I love the allusion to these future romances.

“Put him in the oven, and maybe he will get warm and revive,” said Amy hopefully.” (p.111) Awww, she tried to help at least.

“Then there was a hunt for the key, which was at last discovered in his pocket,” (p.136) Lost items are always in the last place we look.

“You’d have nothing but horses, inkstands, and novels in yours,” (p.139) Sounds like a dream castle to me.

“There, I’ve done my best! If this won’t suit I shall have to wait till I can do better.” (p.143) What an optimistic view!

“November is the most disagreeable month in the whole year,” said Margaret, standing at the window one dull afternoon, looking out at the frostbitten garden. “That’s the reason I was born in it,” observed Jo pensively, quite unconscious of the blot on her nose. “If something very pleasant should happen now, we should think it a delightful month,” said Beth, who took a hopeful view of everything, even November.” (p.152) Beth’s and Jo’s responses are awesome!

“Mrs. March put the note in the fire, the money in her purse,” (p.156) Go Mrs. March! No time for negative nonsense.

“strong and tender Friend, whose fatherly love most closely surrounds His little children.” (p.186) No greater friend than the Lord.

Poll, I think is my favorite character. I look forward to reading the final three stories in this series.