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Showing posts from June, 2024

Book Review: 'Death at Peony House' by Krista Walsh

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Five stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This novel is well-written, with just the right amount of creepiness and coziness. The intriguing mystery and the high stakes keep you glued to the page. The protagonist, one Daphne Heartstone, is a sorceress who works as a journalist. On the quest for that next headline, she stumbles upon a murder at an old, empty building that once served as a hospital. Before long, she finds the murder may be but one in a long string of killings. Daphne is well-rounded, and I also liked the side characters. I especially liked the contrast between the hospital’s dark atmosphere and the warmth and comfort of Daphne’s family and home. Each enhances the other, making the book all the more enjoyable. One point to consider: This is the first book in author Krista Walsh’s Dark Descendants series, but there were numerous references to Daphne’s backstory, which must be in the prequel that I didn’t read. I think the book can stand alone, but it may be helpful to pick up the prequel first

'Godzilla Minus One': Monster Movie That's All Heart

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I’m not a fan of Godzilla movies. I mean, I like them well enough, but I won’t go out of my way to watch them. So I was really surprised to find how much I liked Godzilla Minus One , which I caught on Netflix . This isn’t yet another kaiju (giant monster) movie in which the creature wrecks Tokyo and terrorizes its residents. Instead, it’s character-driven, and really tugs at your heartstrings. You’re so much more invested in a flick if you actually care that the people in it survive. The movie was produced and released in 2023 by Japan’s Toho Studios. It has found worldwide success, reportedly raking in $116 million compared to an estimated budget of $10 - $12 million. It is Toho’s highest-grossing Godzilla movie ever, at a time when American movies are sluggish at the box office. Godzilla Minus One takes place shortly after World War II, when Japan is reeling from its ignominious defeat by the Allied Forces. The main character is Koichi Shikishima, a former kamikaze pilot who mus

It's Summer! Time for New Reads?

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Can it be June already? For this month, a group of urban fantasy authors—myself included—have teamed up to offer a great selection of books. Check it out, and find your next summer read and/or next favorite author!  Link:  https://books.bookfunnel.com/uf-faka-june/hsyy1cla3y