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Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Rancho Estero y Mar; City: San Luis Talpa La Paz Department; Review: We stayed at this sprawling property along the pacific following a late flight into San Salvador and absolutely were blown away by the attention to detail and amazing customer service. The hotel exceeds all stands from an American's perspective and the restaurant was very good. Highly recommend staying here.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: San Rafael Hotel; City: Antigua Sacatepequez Department; Review: This particular property is stunning and offers a quaint refuge in an otherwise congested touristy town. The property has an aura of tasteful elegance and the staff is of the highest caliber. I would say it's one of the top hotels I've stayed at rivaling any hotel I've stayed at in Europe. Highly recommended!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Coachman s Inn A Four Sisters Inn; City: Carmel Monterey County California; Review: We stayed at the Coachman's Inn during a drive up the entire California Coast from LA and were impressed by the hotel's central location in Carmel. The hotel is surrounded by a plethora of great restaurants and galleries and is in the perfect setting. The property is really an old motel that's been completely renovated in order better correlate with the beauty of Carmel and the owners have accomplished this feat. However, the property does retain the framework of a motel complete with thin walls and smallish rooms. I would recommend this place to anyone looking to avoid pricier options in the area since it was very clean and updated.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel Restaurant; City: Fjaerland Sogndal Municipality Sogn og Fjordane; Review: I've traveled to over 50 countries and all fifty U.S. States and have stayed in hundreds of hotels and I would rate this hotel in my top five. The location is simply perfect, the food was divine and the owner was flawless in his management of the hotel. The owner gave our group a personal overview of the area and tended to our every need during our stay. In addition, the owner brews his own beer that ended up serving as a substitute for water during our stay. My only reservation about providing such a great review is that others will soon discover this perfect gem of a place.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Westeras Farm; City: Geiranger Stranda More og Romsdal Western Norway; Review: The scenery is otherworldly surrounding this property given its high perch above the fjord. It's likely the most ideal setting I've experienced during all of my international travels. I am truly blessed to have experienced silica a perfect setting. The accommodations were simple yet clean, but you would be foolish to spend much time indoors.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Casabella Bed Breakfast; City: St George s Saint George Parish Grenada; Review: We had the privilege of staying at the beautiful Casabella B&B over New Year's and spending some amazing moments with the owners Odessa and Ray. The property is exquisite with every attention to detail masterfully accounted for. Odessa greeted us at the airport and instantly made us feel right at home in a very foreign land to us. We spend some incredible evenings with our hosts and were legitimately very sad to leave when our vacation was over with. We had never intended on going back to Grenada but are already thinking of our next trip back to the island to spend more time at Casabella. Please do consider this unforgettable place when making travel arrangements to the island.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Gordini Crest Goggle; Brand: Gordini; Review: My son used them this season and was very happy with them. Unfortunately we lost them after a few days, so can't attest to its durability. But they were comfortable, and did the job.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: BSN Heavy-Duty Anti-Whip Net; Brand: BSN Sports; Review: Installation was a but hard because the rope is on the thick side. I had to use pliers to get it on, but it looks good!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: SHIMANO SM-SH52 SPD Cleat Sets; Brand: SHIMANO; Review: Replaced my 2 year old cleats that we're wearing out in a few minutes. New cleats are perfect. No need to readjust. Come in and out just right.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: SHIMANO Cleat Cover; Brand: SHIMANO; Review: Fit well, great protection of cleats. I use them all the time, even for short breaks. They are easy to clip on and off.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sports Sunglasses, L·V·X·ING LVX548 Mens Polarized Sunglasses Mens Glasses Exchangeable 5 UV400 Lenses Cycling Hiking Running Outdoor Sunglasses Upgraded; Brand: ; Review: I have been using these glasses for road biking for over a year. I switch primarily between two lenses: dark/opolarized and yellow/clear for early rides. Changing the lenses is a bit tricky, but I learned the trick. Overall very functional and they work well.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: VOLADOR Bike Light Set, Bike Headlight USB Rechargeable, LED Bike Front Light & Taillight, Water Resistant Cycling Light for; Brand: VOLADOR; Review: Lightweight and good light. Major issue is that it holds a couple of rides on a battery load; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Manifesting Success: How the Rich Use Simple Laws of Physics to Attract Wealth, Love and Abundance - Kindle edition; Brand: Charles Darey; Review: This book is a quick read and has some great insights. It has really made me think hard about some of my personal relationships and I now realize that some of them are toxic. It's great that the author gives suggestions with how to deal with this as it is a difficult problem to solve. Thanks for the advice Charles!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: DASH Diet; Brand: Hanna Davis; Review: I didn't know anything about DASH diets but this book is great for beginners. It clearly explains what these diets are all about, gives great tips on how to deal with being on one and also provides some really good recipes. I cooked the 'Shepherds Pie' and it was just as good as the more fatty version I usually make. I can't wait to try more of the recipes in here.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Irresistible Dump Cake Cookbook: 27 Delicious Quick & Easy Dump Cake Recipes Your Family Will Love; Brand: Mary-Ann Miller; Review: Dump cakes are so easy to make and taste delicious. Who knew? I love cooking but am not much of a baker so when I discovered dump cakes I was really happy. This book has ton of awesome recipes. I've only tried a few so far - Caramel Chocolate Delight, Sweet Blueberry & the Summertime S'mores dump cakes. They were all winners. All my friends loved the S'mores one when I served it last night. Love this book!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Gluten-Free & Paleo Desserts: 42 Outrageously Easy & Delicious Dessert Recipes You'll Love (Tasty & Gluten-Free Series, Book 2); Brand: Visit Amazon's Paula Sutten Page; Review: This book has tons of great dessert recipes. What I found interesting is that once you have a good gluten-free flour alternative (the first recipe in the book) you can make almost any dessert you like. The recipes I've tried so far have been pretty simple to cook and a hit with the family. My kids favorites so far have been the Coconut Caramel Pecan Brownies and the No-Eggs Chocolate Mousse. Will be trying some more recipes out this weekend!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sugar Detox: Your Personal Sugar Detox Guide To Stop Sugar Cravings Naturally And Start Living Clean - Kindle edition; Brand: Visit Amazon's Jennifer Hayes Page; Review: I am definitely a sugar addict and have been for years. I have thought about going on a sugar detox for years but not really known how to go about it. This book gives great information on sugar and sugar addiction as well as actionable steps on how to start the detoxing process and keep it going. The recipe ideas and suggestions for alternatives to sugar are great too. Since I started the detox I have many fewer periods of tiredness during the day and feel more energetic. Will keep it up.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Ultimate Smoothie Recipe Book: 43 Delicious (Quick and Easy) Smoothies including Detox,; Brand: Jennifer Davis; Review: This is a great book for smoothie ideas. I've been drinking smoothies for years and always looking for new recipes. This book has tons of them that I have not seen before, like the Pumpkin Harvest smoothie and the Goji Nut Blend - delicious. The ones that I have tried have been delicious and I'm looking forward to trying the next one. I have recommended this book to my friends.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Essential Oils & Body Care: Your Own Personal Pocket Spa To DIY Beauty, Body Care & Loosing Weight Naturally; Brand: Leanna Lockhart; Review: This book was definitely not what I was expecting - but in a good way. The first section on beautifying with aromatherapy was more appealing to my wife but I did try one of the facial saunas and it was surprisingly great. Really relaxing and my face felt awesome after. I've had some issues in my shoulder and neck so the massage section was very helpful for that and also surprising were the different meal plans for weight loss. Some really interesting recipes and good tips on how to lose weight. A great book overall!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Simple Liver Cleanse Formula; Brand: Visit Amazon's Jennifer Hayes Page; Review: My friend told me about liver cleansing and as someone who has been a drinker of alcohol most days for years (not much but usually one drink) I thought it would be a good idea to try cleansing. This book is simple to follow for beginners and I feel great. I will make this part of my weekly or monthly routine.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pass Me The Paleo's Paleo Budget Recipes: 25 Amazing Wallet Friendly Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Dessert! (Diet,; Brand: Visit Amazon's Alison Handley Page; Review: Some great options for us as a family. We are fairly new to Paleo eating and I love that this book covers those like us who cannot afford all of the premium ingredients - yet the dishes are delicious. Yum!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pass Me The Paleo's Paleo Grilling Recipes: 25 Seafood, Pork, Beef and Chicken Recipes that your Family will Love!; Brand: Visit Amazon's Alison Handley Page; Review: The recipes in this book are delicious!! I love that they are split into protein categories like shrimp, chicken, beef etc as this make it much easier to plan the meals for the week. The New England Piggy Back Salmon is amazing!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Gluten Free - A Lifestyle Guide for Gluten-free Living; Brand: Visit Amazon's Jake Hargis Page; Review: This is an awesome book. It has really helped me to learn more about what it takes to start a gluten-free lifestyle. So many of my friends have told me that it has helped them a lot but I wasn't really interested before. Since I have started having some digestion problems I thought I'd try going gluten-free. This book is great for beginners as lays everything out simply for you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Green Smoothie Recipes to Lose Weight: 50 Delicious & Quick Superfruit Smoothies For Good Health - Kindle edition; Brand: Jenna Jolan; Review: I like the way the smoothies are split up into groups by their primary ingredient. I'm not so fond of avocado and in other books it can be hard to find smoothies without them. But in this one I just have to skip that section and I have a ton of other smoothies that are great. My favourites so far are the Coconut-Mango-Kiwi & the Sweet Blackberry and Melon - YUM! Loads of awesome suggestions!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Kindle_Store
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Thermo Lens Mug - Stainless Steel Insulated, For Coffee and Refreshments; Brand: Generic; Review: Don't think it's safe to drink from this. It has a very bad smell of metal and overall it looks very cheaply made. I use it as a pencil holder. :(; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Cuisinart 666-24 Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 8-Quart Stockpot with Lid; Brand: Cuisinart; Review: I love this pan. It's non-stick and it will go a long way. It will stick with you :); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Classic Brands Conforma Ventilated Memory Foam Cushion Firm Pillow, Queen; Brand: Classic Brands; Review: My favorite pillow to sleep on. I wish there were pillow cases in the market with the same size. need extra :(; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sleep Master - Sleeper Sofa Memory Foam Mattress Topper - Twin Wide; Brand: Wirezoll; Review: Must have for an air mattress. It really makes a deference when you use it on your bed. First time trying a foam topper; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Faberware Ginger Satin 20-Piece Flatware Set, Service for 4; Brand: Farberware; Review: It's good for the money, it's good for the kitchen. I think the handles are a bit thick but it's not much of a con. Get these and you want be disappointed!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Prepworks Collapsible Tub, Teal and White; Brand: Prepworks from Progressive; Review: Very innovative, I totally recommend it. Wish there were more colors to chose from. Best tub for people who travel; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bestway Premium Raised Air Bed with Built-In Pump, Twin; Brand: Bestway; Review: like most air beds, they blow out. Just before the warranty expired did it become unusable. The service was bad too. This product has warranty but they claimed it does not. They go against their own guarantees, "no questions asked return policy", yeah right. Save yourself the time and get a real bed, that's collapsible and easy to store.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: niceeshop(TM) 12 Cavity Flowers Silicone Non Stick Cake Bread Mold Chocolate Jelly Candy Baking Mould+Free niceEshop Cable Tie; Brand: niceeshop; Review: It's nice, I can even freeze water and get nicely shaped ice cubes. Only wish there was a different color than pink. Too girly.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Best Manufacturers Standard Masher 10-inch; Brand: Best Manufacturers; Review: The design isn't anything special. I might as well use a fork or a spoon to make mashed potatoes. I don't even know why I thought this would work.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Hamilton Beach 72500RY 1.5 Cup Food Chopper; Brand: Proctor Silex; Review: Really great product to have. Works with fruits and nuts.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Shots Fired Deputy Down; Author: Visit Amazon's Craig Johnson Page; Review: While a very interesting story, and one that I stayed with to the end, it was not about the early years of Longmire. Written by a different Craig Johnson.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Walk; Author: Visit Amazon's Lee Goldberg Page; Review: Kept me interested from beginning to end. I did not want to stop reading for anything. What fun to destroy the pretensions of Southern California!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ghost at Work (Bailey Ruth Mysteries, No. 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Carolyn Hart Page; Review: A !little trite but enjoyable for passing time. I won't read another in the series though. Not enough depth for my tastes.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Twelve Drummers Drumming: A Father Christmas Mystery; Author: Visit Amazon's C. C. Benison Page; Review: Really got the flavor of small town life in an English village. Took a little time to get used to true English vernacular. Good murder mastery that keeps you guessing until the very end.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: A Death in Sweden; Author: Visit Amazon's Kevin Wignall Page; Review: I never expected to enjoy this book as much as I did. I had never read books from this author before. Well written, suspenseful up to the end. Some promise that we will meet the main character again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: A Death in Sweden - Kindle edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Kevin Wignall Page; Review: I never expected to enjoy this book as much as I did. I had never read books from this author before. Well written, suspenseful up to the end. Some promise that we will meet the main character again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Werewolf of Bamberg (A Hangman's Daughter Tale); Author: Visit Amazon's Oliver Ptzsch Page; Review: I've read each of the books in the "Hangman's Daughter" series. Such great descriptive details about life in Germany in the mid 1600s. They are more than the casual love story or drama about the upper crust. These books tell you what life was like for the commoner and how grueling their existence was. Great history lessons!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows: Title: Big Fish (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Love Actually (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Step Into Liquid (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: High Fidelity (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mystic River (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Baby Einstein: Baby MacDonald: A Day on the Farm (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Baby Galileo: Discovering the Sky (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bend It Like Beckham (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Thirteen (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Along Came Polly (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sesame Street's 25th Birthday: A Musical Celebration (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lost in Translation (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Good Girl (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Moulin Rouge (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Monster (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 13 Going on 30 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Monsoon Wedding (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Cold Mountain (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Something's Gotta Give (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bill Cosby: Himself (1983); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Last Samurai (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Murder on a Sunday Morning (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Truly (1991); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Adaptation (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bullets Over Broadway (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sesame Street: Elmopalooza! (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Under the Tuscan Sun (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Apprentice: Season 1 (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: City of God (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: THX 1138: Special Edition (1971); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Collateral (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Frida (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hanging Up (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Chocolat (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Saving Grace (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Steel Magnolias (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Malena (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sesame Street: 1-2-3 (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Super Size Me (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Monster's Ball (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Touching the Void (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Real Women Have Curves (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Swimming Pool (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dark City (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cinema Paradiso: Director's Cut (1988); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sex and Lucia (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Character (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Napoleon Dynamite (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Baby Einstein: Numbers Nursery (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Red (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sideways (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Baby Einstein: Neighborhood Animals (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Queen Margot (1994); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Death of a Salesman (1985); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Meet the Fockers (2004); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Memento (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Coupling: Season 3 (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Closer (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The First Wives Club (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hidalgo (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: I (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Coupling: Season 4 (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Terminal (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 50 First Dates (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Primer (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: A Very Long Engagement (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bridget Jones's Diary (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: In Good Company (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Of Mice And Men (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Million Dollar Baby (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Secretary (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Chorus (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Crash (2005); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Downfall (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Third Man (1949); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Ocean's Twelve (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Aviator (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Beaches (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0	netflix
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: FANMATS NFL Washington Redskins Vinyl Heavy Duty Car Mat; Brand: Fanmats; Review: Great product. Heavy weight. Great quality.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: 44 Mag Door Lock Knobs; Brand: Custom Accessories; Review: See below.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Custom Accessories 16329 44 Mag Style Valve Caps, 1 Pack; Brand: Custom Accessories; Review: All gotten for son who is gun collector. Goes perfect with his car theme. He loves them. Look real.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: 44 Mag License Plate Fastener; Brand: Custom Accessories; Review: See below; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: 99-06 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra Extended Cab Rear Door handle LH - Driver side; Brand: Auto Parts Avenue; Review: Price was right.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: T1A 1999-2007 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Tailgate Handle and Bezel Replacement, Rod Clips Included, Also Fits 1500,; Brand: T1A TruBuilt 1 Automotive; Review: Price was cheapest around. Since thet are plastic and break often, this is a good deal.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Browning Gear Shift Knob \| Bronze \| Universal Fit Hunting & Shooting Equipment, Bronze, Single; Brand: Browning; Review: Son is gun collector and car buff. It is great.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Automotive
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Mal de amores; Author: Angeles Mastretta; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Linda novela historica. La descripcion de personajes es impecable.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mujeres de Ojos Grandes; Author: Angeles Mastretta; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Para ser sincera, este libro me decepciono bastante. Solo disfrute tres historias, en especial la de la Tia Daniela. Cualquier parecido con mi vida personal es mera coincidencia.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Eat, Pray, Love; Author: Elizabeth Gilbert; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, romance, fiction; Review: This book changed my life. It helped me with a difficult time in my life.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: El país de uno; Author: Denise Dresser; Genres: history, young-adult, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction; Review: Critica al sistema politico mexicano que debe ser leida por todos los mexicanos. Sin embargo, no descubre el hilo negro del problema y se limita a hacer minimas aportaciones para la transformacion del statos quo.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Art of Loving; Author: Erich Fromm; Genres: non-fiction, romance; Review: This book changed my life.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Watership Down; Author: Richard Adams; Genres: young-adult, children, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: Grandiosa historia. En su busqueda por encontrar la tierra prometida, los conejos viven traumaticas experiencias. El autor narra la manera en que los conejos logran su objetivo y como logran consolidar su autonomia y la construccion de su madriguera. En su travesia, los personajes se encuentran con seres extraordinarios que reflejan algunas caracteristicas de los hombres. A su vez, el autor plantea el problema de las dictaduras y el uso del miedo para tener a un grupo de seres bajo control.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: El Cielo De Los Leones; Author: Angeles Mastretta; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, fiction; Review: A mi parecer, no es el mejor libro de Mastreta. A pesar de que son relatos de sus vivencias, no atrapa la atencion del lector como lo hacen sus demas novelas.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Ninguna eternidad como la mía; Author: Angeles Mastretta; Genres: romance, young-adult, fiction; Review: Adoro las historias de amor y desamor. Mastretta no me defraudo con este pequeno cuento.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Carrie Diaries (The Carrie Diaries, #1); Author: Candace Bushnell; Genres: romance, young-adult, fiction; Review: Me hubiera gustado leer esta historia cuando me encontraba en mi adolescencia. La lectura es rapida, la historia ligera y es facil identificarse con los personajes. Espero leer Summer and the City para ver como fue que los personajes principales de Sex and the City se conocieron y como empezo su historia de amistad.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Sugar and Spice (L.A. Candy, #3); Author: Lauren Conrad; Genres: romance, young-adult, fiction; Review: Good novel. Madisson is the star of this sequel. The end is unexpected.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas; Author: John Boyne; Genres: history, young-adult, children, biography, historical fiction, fiction; Review: Bueno pero me esperaba algo mejor ....; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: La Comunicación No Verbal; Author: Flora Davis; Genres: non-fiction; Review: Buen libro que detalla con exactud algunas caracteristicas del lenguaje corporal del hombre.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: La emoción de las cosas; Author: Angeles Mastretta; Genres: non-fiction; Review: Pequenas historias que narran la vida de Angeles Mastreta. Para ser sincera, me gusto leerla solo para entender un poco del contexto de la autora y para conocer mas de la vida de mi escritora favorita.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Charlotte's Web; Author: E.B. White; Genres: young-adult, children, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: I read it in elementary schoool.It was a good story.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Fault in Our Stars; Author: John Green; Genres: romance, young-adult, fiction; Review: Bonita historia de amor. Nada extraordinaria. De facil y rapida lectura.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Educar a los topos; Author: Guillermo Fadanelli; Genres: non-fiction; Review: Buena narrativa y excelente critica a la clase militar.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Fahrenheit 451; Author: Ray Bradbury; Genres: paranormal, young-adult, fantasy, fiction; Review: Extraordinario texto que habla sobre la importancia de las ideas e ideales que son plasmadas en los libros. Me encanto; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Morir en el Golfo; Author: Hector Aguilar Camin; Genres: history, mystery, thriller, crime, biography, historical fiction, fiction; Review: Morir en el Golfo es una excelente novela de Hector Aguilar Camin. Su narrativa y descripcion de espacios, lugares y personajes es muy buena y logra que le pongas rostros a estos ultimos. Por su parte, narra de manera fotografica los vicios del sindicalismo mexicano y sus practicas clientelares. Ademas, de describir como es que el gobierno mexicano influye para la decision de lo que es verdad o mentira en la vida publica.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: To Die in Mexico: Dispatches from Inside the Drug War; Author: John Gibler; Genres: history, thriller, crime, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, mystery; Review: Despues de esta lectura mi admiracion por el autor crece. Sin lugar a dudas un magnifico trabajo.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood (Persepolis, #1); Author: Marjane Satrapi; Genres: history, young-adult, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Maravillosa novela grafica. Es una historia estremecedora e interesante. El personaje principal es intrigante y a la vez admirable. Esta autobiografia se ha convertido en uno de mis libros favoritos. No solo relata los momentos dificiles vividos durante la guerra en IRAN, sino las dificultades de vivir en un gobierno extremista y la influencia que ha tenido la globalizacion en nuestros paises tercermundistas.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: La mujer rota.; Author: Simone de Beauvoir; Genres: non-fiction, fiction; Review: El libro es totalmente distinto a lo que esperaba.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Orgullo y prejuicio; Author: Jane Austen; Genres: history, young-adult, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Conmovedora historia de amor; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return (Persepolis, #2); Author: Marjane Satrapi; Genres: history, young-adult, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Como la continuacion de Persepolis, "The Story of a Childhood", la autora nos presenta la narracion de sus anos de adolescencia y de su vida adulta. Sus experiencias narradas y descubrimientos son historias con las que muchos nos podemos identificar. En algunas partes del libro simpatice demasiado con Marjane pues vivi experiencias similares. En lo personal, me gusto mucho mas el primer libro, pero este es una excelente continuacion.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Lords of Salem; Author: Rob Zombie; Genres: history, thriller, crime, paranormal, biography, historical fiction, fiction, fantasy, mystery; Review: La historia no me cautivo pero muero de ganas de ver que hizo con ella el master del terror Rob Zombie; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Eleanor & Park; Author: Rainbow Rowell; Genres: history, young-adult, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Bonita historia que me hizo recordar mi primer amor. Reafirma la teoria de que el hombre tiene el amor que se cree merecer y que el primer amor nunca es para siempre. Facil lectura y entretenida; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Embroideries; Author: Marjane Satrapi; Genres: history, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Graciosa historia sobre las vidas personales de las mujeres mas cercanas a Marjane. La verdad me gusto mucho esta pequena historieta.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Alguien voló sobre el nido del cuco; Author: Ken Kesey; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, fiction; Review: La verdad no me gusto mucho este libro. Me tarde mucho en leerlo y la trama no llamo mi atencion.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Wicked: Memorias de una bruja mala (Los años malvados, #1); Author: Gregory Maguire; Genres: young-adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Un libro que me sorprendio al tocar temas teologicos y filosoficos. Me encanto que el personaje principal fuera una activista rebelde en busqueda de la transformacion del regimen que al final logro su proposito. Es cierto que muchos detalles no quedan explicados pero estoy esperando a leer todos los libros en la serie para aclarar algunas dudas.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Animal Farm; Author: George Orwell; Genres: history, young-adult, paranormal, biography, historical fiction, fantasy, fiction; Review: Extraordinario libro. Para ser sincera, se ha convertido en uno de mis libros favoritos. Amo el detalle del autor al describir los personajes, las escenas y las situaciones. La critica realizada al Stalinismo es bastante acertada. En general es un libro con gran contenido pero que puede ser leido rapidamente gracias a su maravillosa narracion.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Los de abajo; Author: Mariano Azuela; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Entretenida narracion sobre las aventuras de un "general" revolucionario y su tropa. Fue de facil y rapida lectura.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: La ladrona de libros; Author: Markus Zusak; Genres: history, young-adult, paranormal, biography, historical fiction, fantasy, fiction; Review: Desde mi punto de vista personal, este libro esta sobre-valorado. La historia realmente no es novedosa, lo unico que tiene de innovador es el narrador.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games, #1); Author: Suzanne Collins; Genres: young-adult, mystery, thriller, crime, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Linda historia de amor y rebeldia. La descripcion de los personajes es impecable y la narradora logra atraparte en la historia. Es breve la resena ya que espero leer los libros subsecuentes.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Wicked: The Grimmerie; Author: David Cote; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, paranormal, non-fiction, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Hermoso libro en donde mediante fotografias te ensena la vida detras del telon del famoso musical Wicked. Ademas, aporta datos interesantes de la adaptacion y del autor.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Catching Fire (The Hunger Games, #2); Author: Suzanne Collins; Genres: young-adult, romance, mystery, thriller, crime, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: Excelente narrativa. El libro esta lleno de emociones. La descripcion grafica de los escenarios es muy buena. El desarrollo de los personajes es muy importante ya que gracias a ello podemos conocerlos mejor y en muchos casos formar lasos mas fuertes con los mismos. Espero con ansias leer la ultima parte.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Divergent (Divergent, #1); Author: Veronica Roth; Genres: young-adult, mystery, thriller, crime, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Cualquier libro que hable de rebelion y de conflictos sociales llama mi atencion. Este libro cumple con los requisitos, sin embargo, le da mucho mayor importancia a la historia de amor. Hace falta una detallada descripcion de los conflictos, del status quo y los origenes de las facciones. Retoma el tema de la utilizacion del terrorismo para el control de los seres humanos y como el miedo hace que la dominacion se facilite.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: El vampiro de la colonia Roma; Author: Luis Zapata; Genres: fiction; Review: Entretenida historia que narra las aventuras y la vida de un hombre dedicado a la vida galante.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Story of the Eye; Author: Georges Bataille; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, non-fiction, mystery; Review: Fascinante historia; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Franny and Zooey; Author: J.D. Salinger; Genres: young-adult, fiction; Review: Como fan del libro The Catcher in the Rye comence este libro con grandes expectativas. La historia de Franny me gusto mucho pero la de Zooey no se me hizo entretenida. El argumento de por que Franny decide recurrir a Dios y hablar con su hermano se me hizo poco interesante; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Strange Bedfellows: The Surprising Connection Between Sex, Evolution and Monogamy; Author: David Philip Barash; Genres: history, non-fiction, biography, historical fiction; Review: Maravilloso libro que desarrolla el tema de la monogamia en los hombres. Los autores hacen un estudio cientifico del comportamiento del hombre y aseguran que por naturaleza, el hombre no es monogamo pero que puede alcanzar ese estado gracias a la cooperacion y a la razon.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: El dios de las pequeñas cosas; Author: Arundhati Roy; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Me hubiera gustado leerlo en ingles pero me encanto esta historia; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: An Ordinary Person's Guide to Empire; Author: Arundhati Roy; Genres: history, non-fiction, biography, historical fiction; Review: Sin lugar a dudas, este libro se ha convertido en uno de mis favoritos. Es una lectura obligada para todos los ciudadanos del mundo pues nos habla de las consecuencias del imperialismo. No solo hace una critica al imperialismo de Estados Unidos, sino que hace un analisis de como las politicas implementadas gracias al modelo neoliberal capitalista han influenciado en India. La autora nos invita a buscar maneras de combatir al sistema. Afirma que los ciudadanos en cualquier momento pueden derrocar a los Estados, solo es cuestion de decision, organizacion y accion colectiva. Para finalizar, la autora dice que un cambio se acerca, este puede ser sangriento o hermoso pero eso depende de nosotros.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dorothy Must Die (Dorothy Must Die, #1); Author: Danielle Paige; Genres: young-adult, mystery, thriller, crime, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Rapida y entretenida historia. Espero la secuela para ver como es la muerte de Dorothy; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Helarte De Amar / Freeze from Loving: 69; Author: Fernando Iwasaki; Genres: fiction; Review: Para ser sincera este libro no cumplio con mis expectativas. Esperaba algo mucho mas erotico. La portada es hermosa.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Insurgent (Divergent, #2); Author: Veronica Roth; Genres: young-adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: El personaje de Tris evoluciona pero para mal. El personaje se vuelve desesperante. La trama se complica y espero con ansias leer la ultima parte de la trilogia; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Allegiant (Divergent, #3); Author: Veronica Roth; Genres: young-adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Sin lugar a dudas el mejor de los tres libros. El final se veia venir desde la primera entrega.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mockingjay (The Hunger Games, #3); Author: Suzanne Collins; Genres: young-adult, mystery, thriller, crime, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Sin lugar a dudas es mi libro favorito de la trilogia.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Junky; Author: William S. Burroughs; Genres: history, mystery, thriller, comics, crime, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Inigualable descripcion de la vida de un drogadicto; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: La fiesta de la insignificancia; Author: Milan Kundera; Genres: fiction; Review: Critica a la modernidad; a la vision del mundo impuesta que nos ha arrebatado el verdadero sentido del humor.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Carta de una desconocida; Author: Stefan Zweig; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Desoladora y extraordinaria historia de amor. El autor nos narra lo que realmente significa el amor.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Giver (The Giver, #1); Author: Lois Lowry; Genres: young-adult, children, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: Cautivadora historia que nos hace valorar nuestros recuerdos y memorias. Nos recuerda que la transmision de conocimiento y de historia es de vital importancia para la transformacion del presente y la prevencion del futuro. Ademas, resalta la idea de que el hombre debe ser libre y necesita el poder de eleccion.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Persona normal; Author: Benito Taibo; Genres: young-adult, fiction; Review: Inspiradora historia que nos ensena el camino para alcanzar una educacion sentimental completa. El libro nos demuestra que es necesario un cambio en el modelo educativo pues el actual solo sirve de adoctrinamiento y limita el analisis y el pensamiento propio. El autor, de forma acertada, nos recalca la necesidad de ser un alma libre, unica, de "poder reirse y llorar cuando es necesario, de no ser una fachada falsa". Nos ensena a abrir los ojos ante una realidad impuesta por los victoriosos y a ver el mundo desde la perspectiva de los oprimidos, los que perdieron sus origenes, sus costumbres, sus caracteristicas diferentes y a los cuales les obligaron a adquirir usos y costumbres. Sin lugar a dudas, el tio Paco es un modelo a seguir y todos deberiamos de imitar sus pasos para crear seres pensantes, indiferentes, libres, criticos, cultos, rebeldes, y sobre todo humanos. Es decir, ovejas negras.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Four: A Divergent Story Collection (Divergent, #0.1 - 0.4); Author: Veronica Roth; Genres: young-adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Libro que narra la historia de Cuatro. A mi parecer, su vida y su desarrollo personal es mucho mas interesante que el de Tris. El libro hizo que me enamorara mas del personaje. Me gusto el hecho de que Cuatro luchara en contra de la imposicion social desde su trinchera.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Guerra en el paraíso; Author: Carlos Montemayor; Genres: fiction; Review: Extraordinaria historia que narra la lucha de Lucio Cabanas en contra de las injusticias cometidas por el gobierno hacia el campesinado. El libro narra las atrocidades cometidas por el ejercito en el estado de Guerrero y la feroz resistencia de los seguidores de Cabanas.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban; Author: Malala Yousafzai; Genres: history, young-adult, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction; Review: Extraordinario libro que nos narra la historia de Pakistan. Mala no solo describe su experiencia sino que describe la manera como se construyo su pais y como fue que llegaron los Talibanes al poder. Narra la lucha constante de las mujeres en los paises en donde los extremistas islamicos no les permiten tener las minimas libertades. Su lucha es admirable pues defiende el derecho a la educacion pues como ella argumenta: las palabras son mas poderosas que las armas. Un libro que todos deberiamos de leer para volvernos mas humanos.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Que se mueran los feos; Author: Boris Vian; Genres: thriller, comics, crime, graphic, fiction, mystery; Review: Muy entretenida historia que nos narra la obsesion que existe actualmente por la perfeccion de la belleza del hombre. Hace una satira de la concepcion occidental de belleza y ademas una critica al gobierno de Estados Unidos.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fifty Shades of Grey (Fifty Shades, #1); Author: E.L. James; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: Sin lugar a dudas el peor libro que he leido en mi vida. Esta mal escrito, la historia es banal y no sacio mi necesidad de erotismo. Para ser sincera, lo lei por morbo pues disfruto mucho de las lecturas eroticas pero este no tuvo nada que aportar sobre el tema. Me molesta que fomente el machismo y la sumision de la mujer. Ademas, aplaude la dependencia de la mujer hacia el hombre y que todos los vicios de una relacion romantica son buenos con tal de tener dinero, riquezas y lujos en la vida.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: El libro salvaje; Author: Juan Villoro; Genres: thriller, children, crime, paranormal, fiction, fantasy, mystery; Review: Un libro adecuado para ninos menores de 12 anos.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: To All the Boys I've Loved Before (To All the Boys I've Loved Before, #1); Author: Jenny Han; Genres: romance, young-adult, fiction; Review: Predecible historia que narra el primer amor de una adolescente la cual se ve envuelta en un trio amoroso. Lectura recomendada para ninas de 13 a 18 anos.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's "Learned"; Author: Lena Dunham; Genres: history, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction; Review: Autobiografia de Lena Dunham de rapida lectura pero que realmente no tiene mucho que aportar.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: The Wicked Will Rise (Dorothy Must Die, #2); Author: Danielle Paige; Genres: young-adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: El segundo libro narra la transformacion de la protagonista y como se convierte en bruja. La historia se complica y al final se le da un giro bastante raro e innecesario. Creo que ya se perdio la esencia del libro.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Como Agua para Chocolate; Author: Laura Esquivel; Genres: history, paranormal, biography, historical fiction, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Maravillosa historia de amor y desamor. La narrativa es cautivante.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Las once mil vergas; Author: Guillaume Apollinaire; Genres: romance, poetry, fiction; Review: Sin lugar a dudas uno de los mejores libros de literatura erotica que he leido.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Homecoming (The 100, #3); Author: Kass Morgan; Genres: young-adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Eviten leer los libros. Mejor vean la serie de television; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lost Stars; Author: Claudia Gray; Genres: young-adult, paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Para ser sincera la unica razon por la cual elegi leer este libro fue que en la descripcion se afirma que la historia contiene pistas y nueva informacion sobre la nueva pelicula de Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Sin embargo, no cumple con ese requisito en su totalidad. La historia es buena pues muestra las versiones de los soldados de ambos bandos y las razones por las cuales han elegido al Imperio o a la rebelion. En lo particular, el personaje de Ciena Ree me causo gran conflicto hasta llevarme a la desesperacion.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: La vida de los elfos; Author: Muriel Barbery; Genres: young-adult, poetry, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: Me deje llevar por el titulo y la portada del libro. La historia no me gusto y me fue tediosa; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: De Tlatelolco a Ayotzinapa: Las violencias del Estado; Author: Sergio Aguayo; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction; Review: El titulo de este libro es confuso. El autor solo dedica un capitulo de menos de veinte paginas para hacer una breve (muy breve) descripcion de lo sucedido en Ayotzinapa. Para eso, mejor hubiera leido un ensayo en internet. El texto se limita narrar los hechos ocurridos en Tlatelolco sin brindar informacion nueva. Sin embargo, su tesis es correcta: el Estado no ha cambiado y continua ejerciendo la violencia para eliminar a la oposicion.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Moving Target - A Princess Leia Adventure; Author: Cecil Castellucci; Genres: young-adult, children, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: Entretenida lectura; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Bell Jar; Author: Sylvia Plath; Genres: history, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Just an amazing book. Sometimes I feel trapped in side my own bell jar; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Momo; Author: Michael Ende; Genres: young-adult, children, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: Tenia expectativas mas altas de esta historia. Es una buena leccion para entender que los hombres tenemos derecho al tiempo libre; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Soppy; Author: Philippa Rice; Genres: history, young-adult, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, romance, fiction; Review: It is beautiful; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: El perro guardián de las estrellas; Author: Takashi Murakami; Genres: graphic, comics, young-adult, fiction; Review: Hermosa historia de amor; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: zoku hoshi mamoru inu (El perro guardián de las estrellas 2); Author: Takashi Murakami; Genres: graphic, comics, children, fiction; Review: Hermosa historia que demuestra el verdadero amor de un perro; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon, Vol. 2 (Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon Renewal Edition, #2); Author: Naoko Takeuchi; Genres: young-adult, romance, comics, children, paranormal, graphic, fantasy, fiction; Review: El personaje de Sailor Moon me desespera bastante pues se ciega facilmente por el amor; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 美少女戦士セーラームーン新装版 1 [Bishōjo Senshi Sailor Moon Shinsōban 1]; Author: Naoko Takeuchi; Genres: young-adult, romance, comics, children, paranormal, graphic, fantasy, fiction; Review: Me recordo a mi infancia. Me gusto mucho; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Uno soñaba que era rey; Author: Enrique Serna; Genres: fiction; Review: Me encanto este libro pues es un fiel retrato de la decadencia humana. De forma poetica, el narrador describe los rasgos caracteristicos de la sociedad mexicana; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: No Longer Human; Author: Osamu Dazai; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, fiction; Review: Invaluable percepcion de la naturaleza del ser humano; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Escritos de un viejo indecente; Author: Charles Bukowski; Genres: history, poetry, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Controversiales historias que narran la vida decadente de un viejo indecente.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Unicorns: The Myths, Legends, & Lore; Author: Skye Alexander; Genres: children, paranormal, non-fiction, fantasy, fiction; Review: Hermoso libro que narra la historia y origen de los unicornios. Me encanto; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: El curioso incidente del perro a medianoche; Author: Mark Haddon; Genres: young-adult, thriller, crime, fiction, mystery; Review: Rapida, facil y entretenida lectura. La historia es novedosa.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Awakening; Author: Kate Chopin; Genres: history, young-adult, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Para su epoca, este libro fue revolucionario y enseno a las mujeres que son libres. Que esta bien buscar la realizacion personal y el amor verdadero; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Lost Days (Emily the Strange Novels, #1); Author: Rob Reger; Genres: young-adult, thriller, comics, children, crime, paranormal, graphic, fiction, fantasy, mystery; Review: Entretenida historia de misterio, suspenso y amnesia; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Siddhartha; Author: Hermann Hesse; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Extraordinario viaje. Es una historia que habla sobre la existencia humana. En lo personal, me encanto y se ha convertido en uno de mis libros favoritos; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: El lobo estepario; Author: Hermann Hesse; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: Maravillosa lectura que ha transformado mi manera de entender la naturaleza del hombre; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Man's Search for Meaning; Author: Viktor E. Frankl; Genres: history, comics, graphic, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, fiction; Review: Este libro ha cambiado mi perspectiva sobre el verdadero objetivo de la existencia del hombre. Me ha ayudado a salir da la crisis existencial en la que me he encontrado durante los ultimos anos.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Leave Your Mark: Land Your Dream Job. Kill It in Your Career. Rock Social Media.; Author: Aliza Licht; Genres: non-fiction; Review: Grandiosa lectura cuyo principal objetivo es el crecimiento personal. La autora presenta una lista de pasos que deberas seguir para alcanzar todas tus metas. Desde manana, pondre en practica los conocimientos adquiridos en esta lectura; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life; Author: Jen Sincero; Genres: non-fiction; Review: Definitely a life guide. I'm ready to open my arms to the universe.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Seconds; Author: Bryan Lee O'Malley; Genres: young-adult, romance, comics, paranormal, graphic, fantasy, fiction; Review: Amazing story that makes you embrace destiny with hope and love.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Breakfast at Tiffany's; Author: Truman Capote; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Wonderful.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ready Player One; Author: Ernest Cline; Genres: young-adult, romance, thriller, crime, paranormal, fiction, fantasy, mystery; Review: El mundo planteado por Ernest Cline cada vez se ve mas cercano.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Modern Romance; Author: Aziz Ansari; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, non-fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Este libro me fascino ya que hace un estudio sociologico del amor romantico. Ademas, la narrativa de Aziz es entretenida y divertida. Recomiendo esta lectura a todos aquellos que pasamos mucho tiempo en frente de los monitores o pantallas de celulares.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Beauty and the Beast: Belle's Library: A Collection of Literary Quotes and Inspirational Musings; Author: Walt Disney Company; Genres: young-adult, romance, children, poetry, paranormal, non-fiction, fantasy, fiction; Review: Extraordinario libro lleno de frases inspiradoras; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Capture Your Style: Transform Your Instagram Photos, Showcase Your Life, and Build the Ultimate Platform; Author: Aimee Song; Genres: history, non-fiction, biography, historical fiction; Review: Amazing Instagram guide for perfect pictures.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Gutbliss: A 10-Day Plan to Ban Bloat, Flush Toxins, and Dump Your Digestive Baggage; Author: Robynne Chutkan; Genres: non-fiction; Review: spoiler alert Really useful information. Now I know what changes to make in my diet in order to have a healthier lifestyle.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Harry Potter y el Prisionero de Azkaban; Author: J.K. Rowling; Genres: young-adult, mystery, thriller, children, crime, paranormal, fantasy, fiction; Review: After reading this book I realized that I need an owl like Hedwig in my life.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	goodreads
Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows: Title: Mystic River (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Saw (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Terminal (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: UFC 43: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Meltdown (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: UFC: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Ultimate Knockouts 1 & 2 (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Real Women Have Curves (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Hours (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Missing (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Grudge (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The School of Rock (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Super Size Me (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: UFC 44: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Only One Will Be Undisputed (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Without a Paddle (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: UFC 45: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Revolution (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: UFC 46: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Super Natural (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: After the Sunset (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Chris Rock: Never Scared (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: UFC 47: Ultimate Fighting Championship: It's On! (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: We Were Soldiers (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Blade 2 (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bush's Brain (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Alien vs. Predator (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sideways (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Shaun of the Dead (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Usual Suspects (1995); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Children Underground (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hate.com (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Rwanda (2005); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Far from Heaven (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Cooler (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: My Flesh and Blood (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Personal Velocity (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Station Agent (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Before Night Falls (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Straight Story (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Love Song for Bobby Long (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Y Tu Mama Tambien (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Whale Rider (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lovely & Amazing (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: City of God (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Professional (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Pianist (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Collateral (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: UFC: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Ultimate Knockouts 3 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Blade: Trinity (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: UFC 50: Ultimate Fighting Championship: The War of '04 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Warriors of Heaven and Earth (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Iron Monkey (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bus 174 (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Elektra (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Emperor and the Assassin (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Scratch (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Taxi (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Unstoppable (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: You Got Served (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Elf (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mr. 3000 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cedric the Entertainer: Starting Lineup 2 (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Johnson Family Vacation (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Naked World (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Latin Kings: A Street Gang Story (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lost Boys of Sudan (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Meet the Fockers (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: House of Flying Daggers (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Undertow (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Five People You Meet in Heaven (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Beef 2 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Beef (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: UFC 51: Ultimate Fighting Championship: Super Saturday (2005); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: PRIDE Fighting Championships: Cold Fury 2 (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lisboa (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Assault on Precinct 13 (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 7 Seconds (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Notebook (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Anger Management (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Secret Lives of Adult Stars (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Iron Ladies (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Iron Ladies 2 (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: DiG! (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Sports Bloopers DVD Triple Play (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Audition (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Septem8er Tapes (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Shape of Things (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Gladiator Days: Anatomy of a Prison Murder (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Manic (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Believer (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Are We There Yet? (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Cops: Bad Girls (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: PRIDE Fighting Championships: Total Elimination 2004 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Soldier Child (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Party's Over (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0	netflix
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Carhartt Men's Midweight Zip Front Hooded Sweatshirt K122; Brand: ; Review: My nephew wanted a Carhartt hoodie for Christmas and I found exactly what he wanted on line for a great price. Great Carhartt quality!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Carhartt Men's Big & Tall Midweight Hooded Pullover Sweatshirt K121; Brand: ; Review: My nephew wanted a Carhartt hoodie for Christmas and I found exactly what he wanted on line for a great price. Great Carhartt quality!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hideaways by L.B. Evans Men's Marion Moccassin Slipper; Brand: L.B. Evans; Review: Purchased as a Christmas gift for nephew at college! He loved loved loved these. Very comfortable, he says. Great style and craftmanship. Thank you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Short Sleeve Western Shirt; Brand: ; Review: My son loves this particular style of Dickies button up. Not too thick and if you pull from the dryer when it is just a bit damp, you really don't need to iron much.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Carhartt Men's Rain Defender Paxton Heavyweight Zip-Front Hooded Sweatshirt; Brand: ; Review: Christmas gift for nephew! Exactly what he wanted. It fits perfect and came in plenty of time for Christmas! Thank you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Marvel Captain America Sleep Pants; Brand: ; Review: My husband loves to lounge in these! They fit comfortable, not real baggy or real fitted. Nice soft material. Great price! Very happy with purchase. They are not real thick either, which is nice.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Doctor Who Logo Guys Pajama Pants; Brand: ; Review: Purchased for my son for Christmas! Loves Dr. Who... These are comfortable, a great length and wash well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Men's Iron Co. Belted Twill 100% Cotton Cargo Shorts; Brand: IRON CO.; Review: I bought several pairs of Iron Co. shorts for my son because they are comfortable, they wear well and they fit perfect, no matter what color or style you choose!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Short Sleeve Casual Plaid Shirt; Brand: ; Review: My son is in the 7th grade and loves to wear this style shirt. It fits well, doesn't require too much ironing and is a nice lightweight fabric.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fashion Corner Juniors Long Sleeve Zip-up Hoodie; Brand: ; Review: These run a little small and since it was a gift, I took the suggestion of another reviewer and went a size larger. My sister likes the thinner material and wears it for work.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Short Sleeve Work Shirt; Brand: ; Review: Very nice shirt. Purchased for my son. He likes the fit and style but found the fabric a bit too thick for his liking. He is 14.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Maidenform One Fabulous Fit Tailored T-Shirt Bra (2 Pack); Brand: ; Review: These are okay. I feel like the same type of bra were of better quality at Costco, maybe thicker and better finishes. They fit nice and the colors are as expected. I'm curious to see if they hold up after a wash on gently cycle in a net bag -- my old ones did.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Romwe Women's Summer Casual Sleeveless Crew Neck Cocktail Party Dress; Brand: ; Review: This is the cutest dress. I love the small detailing around the neck. The button clasp did break off the first time I wore it but I will fix it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: MO GOOD Men's Summer Casual Fashion Boutique Cargo Shorts; Brand: MO GOOD; Review: Was a little surprised at the camo print seeing it in person but loves the fit of the shorts. Great price, nice quality and fit.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Maidenform Women's One Fab Fit T-Shirt Bra; Brand: ; Review: Nice bra, wish Costco would sell again; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: var aPageStart = (new Date()).getTime(); var ue_t0=ue_t0\|\|+new Date(); window.ue_ihb = (window.ue_ihb \|\| window.ueinit \|\| 0) + 1; if (window.ue_ihb; Brand: Tri-Mountain; Review: Nice plain black tshirt. Not to thin and not too thick.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Maidenform Women's One Fab Fit T-Shirt Bra; Brand: ; Review: Nice bra, wish Costco would sell again; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Maidenform Women's One Fab Fit T-Shirt Bra; Brand: ; Review: Nice bra, wish Costco would sell again; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hanes Mens Red Label Comfortwear Knit Boxer (MKCBX5); Brand: ; Review: Soft comfy boxers. My husband has a 36 in waist and I purchased the XL and they fit perfect. Great price. This is his favorite style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hanes Women's Comfortsoft Cotton Stretch Boy Brief with Lace Panty (Pack of 3); Brand: ; Review: Cute underwear; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Crazy Girls Womens Boyfriend Pocket Cardigan Jersey Shrug; Brand: Crazy Girls; Review: Light weight brown cardigan, fun to wear, pretty color of brown, goes with everything; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Merrell Women's Captiva Launch Mid 2 Waterproof Boot; Brand: Merrell; Review: Love love love these boots. Comfortable from the moment I put them on my feet.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Skechers Performance Women's Go Walk 2 Super Sock 2 Slip-On Walking Shoe; Brand: ; Review: Tried on in store before purchasing on line so I knew to buy one size larger than normal. These are very comfortable walking shoes. They look nice and sporty and are light weight.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fruit of the Loom Women’s Underwear Cotton Bikini Panty Multipack, Assorted.; Brand: ; Review: Fruit of the Loom makes nice undies!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Crazy Girls Womens Boyfriend Pocket Cardigan Jersey Shrug; Brand: Crazy Girls; Review: Light weight brown cardigan, fun to wear, pretty color of brown, goes with everything; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: WenVen Men's Cotton Twill Cargo Shorts Outdoor Wear Lightweight; Brand: WenVen; Review: My son wears shorts most often. He likes this brand as they wear nicely and fit well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Maidenform Women's One Fab Fit T-Shirt Bra; Brand: ; Review: Nice bra, wish Costco would sell again; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Urban CoCo Women Bohemian Neck Tie Vintage Printed Ethnic Style Summer Shift Dress; Brand: Urban CoCo; Review: Love this top! I get may compliments on it too. Would not wear it without leggings as it is short. I am 5'5" and about 125lbs. I purchased a small tunic top. The colors are fabulous.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Black Lambskin Leather Backpack Purse Shoulder Bag; Brand: Things2Die4; Review: Nice leather black backpack style purse. Several pockets. It is thin, which is just fine, but it tips. My other backpack purse had a wider bottom. Still, this one is functional and I like it. Looks more expensive than it was!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: TUMMYBAND Shapewear: Look & Feel Super In Your Jeans ~ Shapewear For Women.; Brand: SmartThingz; Review: Nice and comfortable. Gives just a bit of support. Exactly what I was looking for. Bought a smaller size too!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Internet Router Switch Gold Plated Internet Router Male to Male RJ45 Connector for Base-T; Brand: C&E; Review: It is a cable, nothing special; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Netgear WN2500RP-100NAS N600 Desktop WiFi Range Extender (WN2500RP); Brand: NETGEAR; Review: Got this thinking it'll atleast help a bit with my bad connection, and to my surprise, I get almost the same speed as if I was plugged into the modern itself!!! 75 feet away; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Welltop® Blue LED 2-switches Laptop Cooling Pad with 5 Fans,2 USB 2.0 Ports Notebook Laptop Computer Cooler laptop cooling pad; Brand: Welltop; Review: Great product, world's like a charm for even my 18 inch laptop. Doesn't come with the usb to usb cable needed to power it, but oh well they're only like 3 bucks. Not as fancy a it looks either, but like I said it works great for cooling of my gaming laptop a good 15 degrees.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: DTOL 3 Feet USB 2.0 A Male To A Male Cable; Brand: DTOL; Review: Just a cable... it works; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: WD Black 750GB Performance Mobile Hard Disk Drive; Brand: Western Digital; Review: This is twice as fast as my old hitachi hdd even with raid; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: GoPro Helmet Front + Side Mount (GoPro Official Mount); Brand: GoPro; Review: Does what it's supposed to. A little difficult to mount on some helmets without having to crack the visor.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Electronics
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: SweetLeaf Sweet Drops Liquid Stevia Sweetener, Vanilla Creme, 2 Ounce; Brand: SweetLeaf; Review: yummu; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: SweetLeaf Sweet Drops Liquid Stevia Sweetener, Pumpkin Spice, 2 Ounce; Brand: SweetLeaf; Review: great; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: NuNaturals NuStevia Sugar-Free Cocoa Syrup Natural Stevia Sweetener with 0 Calories, 0 Sugar, 0 Carbs (16 oz); Brand: NuNaturals; Review: love this stuff.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Diabetic Kitchen Gourmet Chocolate Brownie Mix Makes The Moistest, Fudgiest Brownies Ever Gluten-Free, High-Fiber,; Brand: Diabetic Kitchen; Review: great; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Diabetic Kitchen Nut Butter Cookie Mix Makes The Moistest, Chewiest, No-Guilt Cookies Ever Low Carb, Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free, 7g of; Brand: Diabetic Kitchen; Review: a+; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Grocery_and_Gourmet_Food
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Presto 06857 16-inch Electric Foldaway Skillet, Black; Brand: Presto; Review: this is a great addition to any kitchen!!!!!!! You can do every thing from roasts to cookies and candy!!!!!! Love it !!!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Pillow Premium Series [Std/Queen, Medium Fill] Available in 4 Loft Levels \| Patented Adjustable Interlocking Fill; Brand: MyPillow Inc; Review: As the ad says, it is great!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fiesta 5-Piece Measuring Spoon Set; Brand: Fiesta; Review: These were a gift and she loved them!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fiesta 17-Ounce Heart Bowl, Medium, Turquoise; Brand: Homer Laughlin; Review: great product and service; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Zinus Memory Foam 10 Inch / Supreme / Cloud-like Mattress, Full; Brand: Zinus; Review: Love this!!! Best mattress I have ever had!!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Oster TSSTTVFDDG Digital French Door Oven, Stainless Steel; Brand: Oster; Review: This is a very good investment!!! Do not use my 220 oven at all. And it is a nice addition to my kitchen.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows: Title: High Fidelity (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Creature from the Black Lagoon: Special Edition (1954); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Green Mile (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Apocalypse Now (1979); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pay It Forward (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: American Beauty (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Seven (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: As Good as It Gets (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ben-Hur: Collector's Edition (1959); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Perfect Storm (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Jaws (1975); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sleepless in Seattle (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: All the Pretty Horses (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Hurricane (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Patch Adams (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Sixth Sense (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mission: Impossible (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sling Blade (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Terminator (1984); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Hunt for Red October (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pretty Woman (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Armageddon (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Usual Suspects (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Men of Honor (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dirty Dancing (1987); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Top Gun (1986); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Apollo 13 (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Finding Forrester (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 3000 Miles to Graceland (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Cider House Rules (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Frequency (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Twister (1996); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Home Alone (1990); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: It's a Wonderful Life (1946); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Air Force One (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Gladiator (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Patriot (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: You've Got Mail (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Matrix (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Blade Runner (1982); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Independence Day (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Crouching Tiger (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Unforgiven (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Exorcist (1973); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Titanic (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Days of Thunder (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Saving Private Ryan (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Santa Clause (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Mummy (1999); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: The Silence of the Lambs (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Deep Impact (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: American Graffiti: Collector's Edition (1973); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Men in Black (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Chinatown (1974); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Jurassic Park (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Ransom (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Tomorrow Never Dies (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sweet November (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Good Morning (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Driving Miss Daisy (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Good Will Hunting (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Wild One (1954); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Pulp Fiction (1994); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Lethal Weapon 2 (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Ghostbusters (1984); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Shanghai Noon (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Notorious (1946); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Proof of Life (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Clockwork Orange (1971); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Swordfish (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Along Came a Spider (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Thomas Crown Affair (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Arsenic and Old Lace (1944); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Speed (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Chain Reaction (1996); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Miss Congeniality (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Watcher (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Rebel Without a Cause: Special Edition (1955); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Traffic (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Devil's Advocate (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Wild Wild West (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: What Lies Beneath (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Nutty Professor (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Entrapment (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Bone Collector (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Jaws 2 (1978); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Superman II (1980); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The General's Daughter (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Truman Show (1998); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Blair Witch Project (1999); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Big (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Chicken Run (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Philadelphia (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pearl Harbor (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Romeo Must Die (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mission: Impossible II (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Life Is Beautiful (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bicentennial Man (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Edward Scissorhands (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cast Away (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Quills (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Shakespeare in Love (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Being John Malkovich (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: What Women Want (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fight Club (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Mummy Returns (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Braveheart (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sleepy Hollow (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Black Mask (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Almost Famous (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Godfather (1972); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Thunder Road (1958); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: In the Heat of the Night (1967); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Cell (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Angel Eyes (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Cocoanuts (1929); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Monster's Ball (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Replacement Killers (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Man from Snowy River (1982); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 40 Days and 40 Nights (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: XXX: Special Edition (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Paradise Under the Stars (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Like Water for Chocolate (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Baran (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: I Am Sam (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Amelie (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: From Hell (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Prizzi's Honor (1985); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Legend of the Swordsman (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The King of Masks (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: In the Bedroom (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Devil's Backbone (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Love Can Seriously Damage Your Health (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Collateral Damage (2002); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Apocalypse Now Redux (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Romancing the Stone (1984); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: We Were Soldiers (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Rules of Engagement (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Serendipity (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Exorcist: Restored Version (1973); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Royal Tenenbaums (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Behind the Sun (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Wizard of Oz: Collector's Edition (1939); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pelle the Conqueror (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Manchurian Candidate (1962); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Some Like It Hot (1959); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: La Promesse (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Camila (1984); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Simone (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sex and Lucia (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Bourne Identity (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: American Me (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The English Patient (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Saving Grace (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Real Women Have Curves (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Gandhi (1982); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Gone with the Wind: Collector's Edition (1939); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Crime of Padre Amaro (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: About Schmidt (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bloody Sunday (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Best in Show (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Desperado / El Mariachi (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Frida (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Maid in Manhattan (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Dark Victory (1939); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Sahara (1943); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Catch 22 (1970); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sirocco (1951); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Alice's Restaurant (1969); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Our Lady of the Assassins (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Boxer (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sabrina (1954); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Repo Man (1984); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Black Orpheus (1959); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Four Days in September (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bullets Over Broadway (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Road to Perdition (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Italian for Beginners (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: One Hour Photo (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Il Postino (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cold Comfort Farm (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Citizen Kane (1941); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Amores Perros (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Much Ado About Nothing (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bandits (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Funny Dirty Little War (1983); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Matrix: Reloaded (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dogma (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Talk to Her (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Fast and the Furious (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Two-Lane Blacktop (1971); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Adaptation (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Harder They Fall (1956); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: On the Waterfront (1954); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Pipe Dream (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Zus & Zo (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Stepmom (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Crush (1993); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Two Weeks Notice (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Cradle 2 the Grave (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Three Days of the Condor (1975); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mouth to Mouth (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Amarcord (1974); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: The Mask of Zorro (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bringing Down the House (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Chicago (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Count of Monte Cristo (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Wonder Boys (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Catch Me If You Can (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Analyze That (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Minority Report (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: 28 Days Later (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Buena Vista Social Club (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Calle 54 (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bowling for Columbine (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Trials of Henry Kissinger (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Selena Live: The Last Concert (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: What Have I Done to Deserve This? (1984); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Windtalkers (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Tomb Raider (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lara Croft: Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: MTV Unplugged: Mana (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Living It Up (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Celia Cruz: Fania Allstars in Africa (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Cilantro y Perejil (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Boat Trip (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Marked For Death (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Angels and Insects (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Nine Queens (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bend It Like Beckham (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: I Am Cuba (1964); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down! (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Finding Nemo (Widescreen) (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Exit Wounds (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bad Boys II (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Medallion (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Life of David Gale (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Family Man (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Daddy Day Care (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bulletproof Monk (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ocean's Eleven (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Italian Job (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Secretary (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: East Is East (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Open Your Eyes (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Tortilla Soup (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Basic (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 21 Grams (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Housekeeper (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: L'Auberge Espagnole (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Roger & Me (1989); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Belle Epoque (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Shooting Fish (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Son of the Bride (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Children of Heaven (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Legend of Drunken Master (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Daredevil (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: O Brother (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Kangaroo Jack (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Iris (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Enigma (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Sum of All Fears (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Under Suspicion (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Training Day (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: S.W.A.T. (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Contract Killer (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Accidental Spy (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Supercop (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Missing (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Where the Heart Is (2000); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dummy (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Black Hawk Down (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Respiro (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Gangs of New York (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Jerry Maguire (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Ring (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Death Warrant (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: U-571 (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Recruit (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Blow (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Jewel of the Nile (1985); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The One (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Desert Heat (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: A Man Apart (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Phone Booth (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Vampires: Los Muertos (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Unfaithful (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Miranda (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Pushing Tin (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Bachelor (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Courage Under Fire (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Gone in 60 Seconds (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lost in Translation (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mystic River (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Gospel of John (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lawrence of Arabia (1962); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Crimson Tide (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: High Sierra (1941); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: True Lies (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Clear and Present Danger (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Fugitive (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Aliens: Collector's Edition (1986); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Solas (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Fantasia 2000 (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mission to Mars (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ghost Ship (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Last Samurai (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Behind Enemy Lines (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Matchstick Men (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Life as a House (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Shadow Magic (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pitch Black (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Mists of Avalon (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Raising Victor Vargas (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: X-Men (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cool Hand Luke (1967); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Manufacturing Consent: Noam Chomsky and the Media (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 12 Monkeys (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Remember the Titans (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: X2: X-Men United (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: American Dream (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Spider-Man (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Paycheck (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: I Come (2000); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: A Bronx Tale (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Secondhand Lions (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Legend of the Red Dragon (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Kiss of the Dragon (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Kiss the Girls (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: GoodFellas: Special Edition (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Frailty (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Spy Game (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Rush Hour (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Hunted (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Unbreakable (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Horse Feathers (1932); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Transporter (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ronin (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Spartacus (1960); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dances With Wolves: Special Edition (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Terminator 2: Extreme Edition (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Out for a Kill (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Patton (1970); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Forrest Gump (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 75th Annual Academy Awards Short Films (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Schindler's List (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: High Crimes (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Score (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Wedding Planner (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Ghost (1990); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Men in Black II (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Beverly Hills Cop II (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mr. Deeds (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Die Hard (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Taxi Driver (1976); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Die Hard With a Vengeance (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sweet Home Alabama (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hellboy (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Con Air (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Fog of War (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Deep End of the Ocean (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Scorpion King (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Color of Paradise (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Universal Soldier: The Return (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Core (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cold Mountain (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Way of the Gun (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hook (1991); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Patriot Games (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Legends of the Fall (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: American Pie (1999); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Coming to America (1988); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Office Space (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Graduate (1967); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Pentagon Papers (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Chocolat (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Shawshank Redemption: Special Edition (1994); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fifteen Minutes (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hidalgo (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Man on Fire (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Pianist (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Corruptor (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Professional (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Resident Evil (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: La Femme Nikita (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Outfoxed: Rupert Murdoch's War on Journalism (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Zoot Suit (1981); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Monsoon Wedding (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Going Upriver: The Long War of John Kerry (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Waking Ned Devine (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Freddy vs. Jason (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Enemy at the Gates (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 50 First Dates (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Four Feathers (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Control Room (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: An Ideal Husband (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Tailor of Panama (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Pledge (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Passion of the Christ (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Matrix: Revolutions (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Y Tu Mama Tambien (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Blade 2 (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Dish (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Last of the Mohicans (1992); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Last of the Mohicans (1920); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Uncovered: The War on Iraq (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Traffic: The Miniseries (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Seabiscuit (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Uncovered: The Whole Truth About the Iraq War (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: White Chicks (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Super Size Me (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Tombstone (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Silent Running (1971); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Meet Joe Black (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Salvador (1986); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Miracle on 34th Street (1947); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Shadowlands (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Chronicles of Riddick (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Seven Up / 7 Plus Seven (1964); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: A Murder of Crows (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: My Best Friend's Wedding (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Osama (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Videodrome (1983); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Runaway Jury (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Maria Full of Grace (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mystery (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Veronica Guerin (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Divided We Fall (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Hunting of the President (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Gimme Power (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: I (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dave (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Bourne Supremacy (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Reign of Fire (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Paradise Road (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Greenfingers (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Taking Lives (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Identity (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: In Dreams (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Day After Tomorrow (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Out of Time (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Conspiracy Theory (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: We Don't Live Here Anymore (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: My Cousin Vinny (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Trading Places (1983); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Raising Helen (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Shallow Hal (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Animal Crackers (1930); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Maltese Falcon (1941); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Big Sleep (1946); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: An American Werewolf in London (1981); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Duck Soup (1933); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bush Family Fortunes: The Best Democracy Money Can Buy (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Devil in a Blue Dress (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Alien vs. Predator (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Predator: Collector's Edition (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Anger Management (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Interview with the Vampire (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Something's Gotta Give (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fahrenheit 451 (1966); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Eagles: Hell Freezes Over (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Jesus Christ Superstar (1973); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hero (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Meet the Parents (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Terminal (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Unconstitutional: The War on Our Civil Liberties (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Alien: Collector's Edition (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Basquiat (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Andromeda Strain (1971); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Manchurian Candidate (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Soylent Green (1973); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Radio (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bush's Brain (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: What Dreams May Come (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Don't Say a Word (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Mosquito Coast (1986); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Insider (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: About a Boy (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bruce Almighty (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: L.A. Confidential (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Fletch Lives (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Stuck on You (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers: Extended Edition (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring: Extended Edition (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Barcelona (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Mexican (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King: Extended Edition (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Happy Gilmore (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Power and Terror: Noam Chomsky in Our Times (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Spider-Man 2 (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Garden State (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Collateral (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Craft (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Princess Diaries (Widescreen) (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Blazing Saddles (1974); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Firm (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Quick and the Dead (1995); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: To Have and Have Not (1944); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Charlotte Gray (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Dark Passage (1947); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Grease (1978); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Road Warrior (1981); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: In America (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bridget Jones's Diary (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Around the World in 80 Days (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Corporation (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ocean's Twelve (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Troy (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Billy Elliot (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Rwanda (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Donnie Darko: Director's Cut (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Final Cut (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Big Fish (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: John Q (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Siege (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Saw (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Shark Tale (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Senseless (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: House of Sand and Fog (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Monster (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Malcolm X (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Starsky & Hutch (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cheaper by the Dozen (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Brassed Off (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mississippi Masala (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Beautiful Mind (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Motorcycle Diaries (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rain Man (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sneakers (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Blade: Trinity (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Flight of the Phoenix (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: House of Flying Daggers (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Donnie Darko (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Central Station (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Red Violin (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Assault on Precinct 13 (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hitch (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Flight of the Phoenix (1965); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Incredibles (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Aviator (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Star Wars: Clone Wars: Vol. 1 (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Ladder 49 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bullitt (1968); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Village (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Star Wars: Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Forgotten (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Z (1969); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cry Freedom (1987); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Racing Stripes (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Antwone Fisher (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Son of the Mask (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Monsters (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Killing Fields (1984); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Walk in the Clouds (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Point Break (1991); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Johnny Mnemonic (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Missing (1982); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bagdad Cafe (1988); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Million Dollar Baby (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Sea Inside (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Grosse Pointe Blank (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Simon Birch (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Coach Carter (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Titanic (1953); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ice Age (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: National Treasure (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Constantine (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hotel (2003); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Giant (1956); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Thorn Birds (1983); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Bourne Identity (1988); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cellular (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Last Castle (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Shrek 2 (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Suspect Zero (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Iron Giant: Special Edition (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Shrek (Full-screen) (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: I'm Not Scared (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Meet the Fockers (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Passion Fish (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Kate & Leopold (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Cry (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Star Wars: Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Eye of the Beholder (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mad Max (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Time to Kill (1996); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Star Wars: Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Star Wars: Episode IV: A New Hope (1977); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Howard Zinn: You Can't Be Neutral on a Moving Train (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dead Man Walking (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: My First Mister (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fallen (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Pelican Brief (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: I.Q. (1994); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: One Fine Day (1996); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Peacemaker (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Key Largo (1948); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Benny and Joon (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Vertigo (1958); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sahara (2005); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Van Helsing (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Carbon Copy (1981); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Gift (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Glory (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Do the Right Thing (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Grudge (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Longest Yard (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Wishing Tree (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: What's Cooking? (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Legend (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mighty Quinn (1989); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Rumble in the Bronx (1995); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: In Good Company (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Underworld (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Robots (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Monster-in-Law (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Way Home (2002); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Tears of the Sun (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bell (1958); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Intolerable Cruelty (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Amistad (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Last Boy Scout (1991); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: K-Pax (2001); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sin City (2005); Rating: 3.0/5.0	netflix
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Command Decorating Clips, White, 40-Clips (17026-40ES); Brand: Command; Review: Perfect hooks for hanging decorations, especially around Christmas time. I used it for garland decorations. Great buy and lots in a pack.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Libbey Craft Brews Beer Flight Glasses with Wood Carrier, 6-ounce, Set of 4; Brand: Libbey; Review: Nice product, but some dents in woo when arrived.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: BLACK+DECKER Family-Sized Electric Griddle with Drip Tray, GD2011B; Brand: BLACK+DECKER; Review: Not sturdy. Plastic edges broke when traveling to and from vacation.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Ohio Wholesale Radiance Lighted Fireflies Grow Chart Wall Art; Brand: Ohio Wholesale; Review: The blue paint comes off in your hands if damp, be careful when handling. Appears as if not sealed. Beautiful piece though.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: LIDORE Micro LED 20 Red Lights with Timer, Battery Operated on 7.87ft Long Silver Color Ultra Thin String Wire; Brand: LIDORE; Review: Stopped working and filled with battery acid less than a year into use. Strange.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Lavish Home Fleece Blanket with Sherpa Backing, Full/Queen, Brown; Brand: Lavish Home; Review: Perfect blanket!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lush Decor Monique 3 Piece Reversible Print Pattern Blue Quilt Set, King; Brand: Lush Decor; Review: Beautiful but a little too light weight.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Bamboo Pillow Cool Comfort Ultra Plush Bamboo Memory Foam Hotel Quality Pillow Relieves Snoring Insomnia Asthma Neck Pain TMJ Migrains; Brand: Cool Comfort Ultra Plush Bamboo Pillow; Review: Sturdy, heavy pillows.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lullabi Bedding 100% Brushed Microfiber Ultra Soft Pillow Case Set - Envelope Closure End - Wrinkle, Fade, Stain Resistant; Brand: Lullabi; Review: Fantastic sheets! Super soft!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Frontline Plus for Cats and Kittens (1.5 pounds and over) Flea and Tick Treatment, 6 Doses; Brand: Frontline; Review: This is good stuff for my cats.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Frontline Plus for Cats and Kittens (1.5 pounds and over) Flea and Tick Treatment, 3 Doses; Brand: Frontline; Review: yes , it did. We are happy with Frontline Plus.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Frontline Plus for Cats and Kittens (1.5 pounds and over) Flea and Tick Treatment, 3 Doses; Brand: Frontline; Review: yes , it did. We are happy with Frontline Plus.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: CatGenie Washable Granules; Brand: CatGenie; Review: yes. I like the granules. Bought extra so we wouldn't run out. Thank you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Breeze Tidy Cat Litter Pads 16.9"x11.4" - 2 pack of 4 pads (2-Pack); Brand: Tidy Cats; Review: I love these. They work great.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Tidy Cats Purina Breeze Cat Litter Pellets Refill Multiple Cats 3.5 lb; Brand: Tidy Cats; Review: These are great.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: K&H Outdoor Kitty House in Olive; Brand: K&H Pet Products; Review: I love these cat houses. I have two that have the heating pad. It is a light heat. Very pleased with them.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Pet_Supplies
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: The Keurig Rivo Cappuccino and Latte System; Brand: Keurig; Review: THEY BREAK ALOT the internals break after about 200 cups. I like them and I'm glas they don't cost 300 anymore because I'm buying my 3rd one. only problem now is that I will drinking a lot more espresso and cappuccino this thing is simple and makes spectacular drinks I would buy one over and over and I highly recommend it seller was prompt and packaging was great im very picky and usually a hard ashs; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Woodlore Cedar Tie Rack Up to 24 Ties; Brand: Woodlore; Review: as ordered and expected; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Simpli Home Dakota Solid Wood Entryway Storage Bench w/ 3 Hyacinth Baskets, Dark Brown; Brand: Simpli Home; Review: front entry way gets lots of compliments practical use daily; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Duro-Med Relax-A-Bac, Lumbar; Brand: Duro-Med; Review: it is what it is. has small wooden board in back to keep it straight has strap to hold onto seat. I would recommend. hope this helps; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Home Basics ST01034 Serving Tray, Bamboo; Brand: Home Basics; Review: nails in corners fall out but if treat lightly it will be ok. I am gluing the corners. it looks great; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Berkey Black Berkey Purification Elements, Pack of 2; Brand: Berkey; Review: good; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: M.V. Trading MTP55 Marble Mortar and Pestle Grinderr, 5¼-Inch, White; Brand: M.V. Trading; Review: nice; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Trudeau Home Presence Ergonomic Stainless Steel Barware Ice Pick; Brand: Trudeau; Review: think handle bends easy; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: TastePadThai Replacement Large Granite Pestle 20 cm, Perfect Mortar Size 7; Brand: TastePadThai; Review: so far its good but seems like it will crumble; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Eclipse 10301042X063GO Suede 42-Inch by 63-Inch Thermaback Blackout Single Panel, Gold; Brand: Eclipse; Review: very wrinkled and tough to get straight- unless using a steamer; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker, 51 Ounce, 1.5 Liter, (12 cup), Chrome; Brand: Bodum; Review: big enough to share seems solid so far; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker, Glass, 34 Ounce, 1 Liter, (8 Cup), Copper; Brand: Bodum; Review: big enough to share seems solid so far; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Large Rustic Brown Metal Wire Wall Mounted Hanging Fruit Basket Storage Organizer Bin w/Chalkboards; Brand: MyGift; Review: larger than it looks. imagine 3 gals of milk side by side with room still; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Norpro Stainless Steel Double Covered Butter Dish; Brand: Norpro; Review: wide and can hold 2 sticks side by side or a large brick; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Purple The Bed - King Size Mattress; Brand: Purple; Review: 100 days is not enough time to realize if the bed is good. so after 120 I can tell you that the sides where people sleep sink in and the middle becomes a ridge. the bed is not firm enough to support lower back but does help with shoulder pain. I really wish I didn't learn a1000 dollar lesson. and I wish I could return it.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Plymor Brand Solid Walnut Rectangular Wood Display Base with Ogee Edge.75" H x 10" W x 5" D; Brand: Plymor; Review: clean quality solid making my own trophy and this is perfect solid and nice; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with news articles as follows: Title: Former Deadliest Catch Star Jerod Sechrist Arrested, Charged with Heroin Possession; Abstract: Deadliest Catch: Jerod Sechrist Charged with Heroin Possession; Category: tv Title: Rob Gronkowski says he's not coming back this season; Abstract: "I am very satisfied where I am at."; Category: sports Title: Derek Wolfe: 'Fangio's game plans are great'; Abstract: The veteran defensive tackle says the new coach will have a game plan to put the Broncos in position to beat the Chiefs. It will be all about execution.; Category: sports Title: Keto-Friendly Restaurants for a Killer Low-Carb Meal; Abstract: These spots make it easy to stay on track.; Category: health Title: The best food truck in every state; Abstract: The best food trucks in every state serve restaurant-quality food that has folks lining up around the block for a taste.; Category: foodanddrink Title: 43 Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes; Abstract: Want an easy version of the Thanksgiving turkey? Turn to these super simple turkey recipes that can be the star of your Thanksgiving dinner. The post 43 Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes appeared first on Taste of Home.; Category: foodanddrink Title: 11 surprising things you didn't know about Olive Garden; Abstract: From secret recipes to interesting pasts, there's a lot more to the popular casual-dining chain than just unlimited salad and breadsticks.; Category: foodanddrink Title: The Best Brunch Spot In Every State; Abstract: These are the places across the US whip up the best brunch, according to Yelp.; Category: foodanddrink Title: Megyn Kelly Claps Back After Being Told to 'Just Fade Away and Enjoy Large Pot of Money'; Abstract: Megyn Kelly Claps Back After Told to 'Enjoy Large Pot of Money'; Category: tv Title: The Broncos are fielding calls for Emmanuel Sanders; Abstract: There have been calls for awhile, it now seems Elway is listening.; Category: sports Title: 10 Amazing Things at Walmart You Can't Buy Anywhere Else; Abstract: We rounded up the coolest, most unique, and most affordable items you can find only at Walmart. Get ready…get set…shop! The post 10 Amazing Things at Walmart You Can't Buy Anywhere Else appeared first on Reader's Digest.; Category: lifestyle Title: Worst Things For Your Health According to Doctors; Abstract: Read the ultimate list of the Worst Things for Your Health. Nearly everything on it is preventable and The Remedy tells you how.; Category: health Title: Potential trade targets for all 32 NFL teams at the 2019 deadline, from A.J. Green to Trent Williams; Abstract: Whether it's trading for a player or trading away a player, the NFL trade deadline in 2019 offers unique opportunities to make moves. Here are the most logical trades for all 32 teams.; Category: sports Title: You Have to Try These Famous Sandwiches in Every State; Abstract: Whether it's a classic Jewish or Italian deli or a new-school artisanal shop, you can rest assured that your sandwich will be made with the best ingredients at these delicatessens, where creations feature traditional fixings such as pastrami and corned beef, as well as offbeat options including pheasant and kalua pork.; Category: foodanddrink Title: The one restaurant you need to visit in every state; Abstract: These 51 restaurants best represent regional culture and cuisine, making them a must stop for any food lover.; Category: foodanddrink Title: Don't Miss These Under-the-Radar Restaurants in Every State; Abstract: In every state, there are beloved but little-known restaurants that serve up phenomenal food. Locals may not want to spread the word for fear of long lines, or maybe these spots are far from city centers no matter why they're low-profile, they're worth finding. Here are under-the-radar eateries for you to discover.; Category: foodanddrink Title: Where to Find a Good Cheap Burger in All 50 States; Abstract: Burger lovers on a budget can do much better than the big fast-food chains. Check out these spots across the country to get an American classic for less. Some are decades-old family-owned joints or funky upstarts in hip cities, and some are roadside stands known for "bodacious" burgers, but all are worth a bite.; Category: foodanddrink Title: John Krasinski Shares the Secret to His 9-Year Marriage to Emily Blunt; Abstract: John Krasinski talked to E! News exclusively about how he and Emily Blunt, who share two daughters, maintain a healthy work-life balance.; Category: movies Title: Halloween snowstorm wallops the Midwest; Abstract: A winterlike storm continued to unload snow over the Midwest on Thursday, making Halloween feel more like Christmas in many areas.; Category: weather Title: Tom Brady explains why he's angry at this point in the football season; Abstract: New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady wasn't happy on Monday morning. That much was clear when he logged on for his call with WEEI sports radio. But he wasn't sad, even if he sounded a little down after his team's 37-20 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night. "I'm more angry. I'm just an angry football I'm like an angry during football season. It's always kind of at a boil just below boil. It doesn't take much to push me over the...; Category: sports Title: Maryland man, 46, gets probation after he killed a father and his four daughters when his SUV crossed a median and slammed into their minivan; Abstract: Alvin Hubbard III, 46, of Cambridge, Maryland, was sentenced to one year of probation after he killed a father and his four daughters when his SUV slammed into a family's minivan in 2018; Category: news Title: 55 Restaurants That Serve an Amazing Thanksgiving Dinner; Abstract: If you love Thanksgiving and the food but don't love the cooking or cleanup, get an easy gourmet celebration at one of these restaurants nationwide. Many feasts feature local twists on old favorites, such as Turducken gumbo and Cajun fried turkey in New Orleans and even vegan-friendly offerings in Seattle.; Category: foodanddrink Title: I ate one of Meghan Markle's favorite foods from Toronto here's what I thought; Abstract: The food at Terroni was good and the prices were surprisingly affordable, but the service was disappointing.; Category: foodanddrink Title: Meghan McCain confronts Trump Jr.: 'You and your family have hurt a lot of people'; Abstract: Donald Trump Jr., the president's son, defended his family after "View" co-host Meghan McCain suggested they were responsible for the lack of "character" in American politics.; Category: news Title: Take That! BIP's Hannah G. Claps Back After Mispronouncing 'Gnocchi'; Abstract: Take That! BIP's Hannah G. Claps Back After Mispronouncing 'Gnocchi'; Category: tv	mind
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Gimme Shelter; Brand: Vanessa Hudgens; Review: Beautiful movie with an encouraging message...the credits were just as good as the whole rest of the movie!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Girl Meets Boy; Brand: Ben Savage; Review: I don't remember the last time i saw a movie with acting as poor, music as poor, or overall quality as poor as this one...don't waste your time; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Much Ado About Nothing; Brand: ; Review: Love this version! Some parts are a bit cheesy, and the acting gets a little campy at times, but over all, this is a lovely adaptation of the Shakespearean play.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Secret Service VHS; Brand: ; Review: This movie was actually quite confusing to me. It was advertised as similar to the old-school, quirky spy movies, and started out that way. But, once the violence started kicking in, mostly towards the end, I felt it went downhill very quickly. I don't mind violence if it moves the plot forward, or even if it just fits within the story line, but their dark humor approach to the massive killing of the world's elite, including the POTUS, came across in poor taste. An otherwise witty script was suddenly filled with crass jokes and innuendos. Again, a crass joke, if it fits the delivering character, is acceptable, but these jokes were detrimental to the development of the characters, and caused them to act in conflict with who they'd been up to that point. It's a shame because it was a good movie until the last 30 minutes, or so, and those final minutes really ruined the rest of it for me.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Kingsman: The Secret Service; Brand: ; Review: This movie was actually quite confusing to me. It was advertised as similar to the old-school, quirky spy movies, and started out that way. But, once the violence started kicking in, mostly towards the end, I felt it went downhill very quickly. I don't mind violence if it moves the plot forward, or even if it just fits within the story line, but their dark humor approach to the massive killing of the world's elite, including the POTUS, came across in poor taste. An otherwise witty script was suddenly filled with crass jokes and innuendos. Again, a crass joke, if it fits the delivering character, is acceptable, but these jokes were detrimental to the development of the characters, and caused them to act in conflict with who they'd been up to that point. It's a shame because it was a good movie until the last 30 minutes, or so, and those final minutes really ruined the rest of it for me.; Rating: 2.0/5.0	amazon_Movies_and_TV
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Red Lion Coaching Inn; City: Ellesmere Shropshire England; Review: I've stayed three nights at the Red Lion each week for the last seven weeks (I've been working in the area). The en suite rooms are very roomy & comfortable (Oakdale is my favourite although the Youens & Courtyard rooms are nice also). The fact that the average length of service for the staff seems to be five years plus speaks volumes about this place - the service is great & nothing seems to be too much trouble. Breakfast is hearty and evening meals are available in the restaurant (be warned the restaurant is insanely popular with locals so booking is advised). Wide selection of dishes & always something interesting on the specials board. I thought long & hard about what overall rating I'd give this place (very hesitant to recommend somewhere as excellent unless I really mean it) but the Red Lion is excellent in both price and service. Although there is an extensive refurb currently under way (November 2014) this hasn't interfered with my frequent stays in any meaningful way. The Red Lion is a great base to explore beautiful Shropshire & the Welsh borders; I fully intend to return (for pleasure this time) in the New Year.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Grand Plaza Serviced Apartments; City: London England; Review: This wasn't a particularly cheap over night stay & being in the lower ground floor (basement) meant all windows looked into a bricked up courtyard (had you been able to access the courtyard for a bit of outdoor space this wouldn't have been quite so bad). Room service (although it's offered) is non-existent. One of my party tried to order a bottle of wine, was asked to come to reception & then given directions to the nearby Sainsbury's Local. Breakfast (I do expect a bit more than a canteen for £14) was a complete non-starter. Finding something positive to say; it was very quiet, the rooms were clean & the bed comfortable.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Harbour Hotel; City: Cemaes Bay Anglesey North Wales Wales; Review: The Harbour is a pretty run of the mill place; rooms are a little small (huge balcony isn't much use in January). Breakfast is good & dinner menu is ok but feels a bit over-priced. On the subject of price, this one of the cheaper hotels on Anglesey & as to be expected it is a bit short on the little extras. Still represents good vfm though. The absolute clincher is the location; 90 seconds to a golden sand beach. Perfect for weekend escapes (if I do go back, it will be in the summer (for a long weekend & I'm sure I'll have a great time)).; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Sophia; City: London England; Review: The Sophia will never win any awards but will always have a place in my heart (we got stranded in London overnight) & we walked into the Sophia & got a twin room there & then for £50 for the two of us. So cheap for this part of London. Expect no frills (heroin chic is how my tongue in cheek companion described it); but if you want somewhere to put your head down on a budget in Paddington this place meets all your needs. I was surprised that we got an en suite room at the price we paid & while everything was v. basic (reminded me very much of my backpacking days) it was fine & even the luggage storage in the basement that worried my traveling companion turned out to be perfectly secure.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Corus Hotel Hyde Park London; City: London England; Review: Room was good (no view but this is Central London & not a fortune so what do you expect?) Well appointed. Lifts were a bit annoying, extremely slow & congested in the mornings but not a huge gripe. Breakfast room in the basement seemed a bit chaotic & we needed to hunt for crockery & cutlery; once you got settled in food was quite nice (except the veggie sausages which I'd still be trying to chew if I hadn't given up on it) & the Egg Station was a nice touch for freshly cooked eggs (no rubber eggs under the hot lights here). Location wise it can't be faulted, less than 5 min walk to Paddington station & you can be in Hyde Park in under 5 minutes in the other direction. Bottom line? Would stay there again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Wrapables Fish Bubble Wall Mounted Acrylic Fish Bowl; Brand: Wrapables; Review: I have received MANY compliments on this! Everyone that sees it wants one. The only problem was that my tap water in it killed my fish :o( Guess I have to go get a new one....; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Precision Pet Snoozzy Quilted Crate Mat; Brand: Precision Pet; Review: Not what I expected... not as "cushy" as I thought. It is of decent quality and durable... it lasted through the washing machine but just not as padded as I expected.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Cat Dancer - Cat Charmer Wand Teaser Toy; Brand: Cat Dancer; Review: This was a Christmas gift for my mothers cat and she loves it! The handle is hard plastic and the "string" is fleece so it stretches well, hold up well... really a great product.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Redbarn Ham Bone; Brand: REDBARN NATURALS; Review: I am saying "it's okay" for my three star review because I received it, it was a good size and presentable however it made both of my dogs violently ill! Not sure if it is the type of bone they didn't tolerate, the seasoning... something!!! Poor dogs and my poor house!; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Omega Paw Premium Roll 'n Clean Litter Box for Cats; Brand: Omega Paw; Review: Works perfectly! Extremely easy! I normally just dumped my litter box completely weekly and replaced all of the litter but this is so easy and thorough that I will never do that again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Pet_Supplies
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Coldwater Revival: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Nancy Jo Jenkins Page; Review: There's a reason why this book has been rated five stars by every single reviewer: It's an incredible book! I must start by saying that although I'm an avid reader, I don't usually post reviews. I've read some good ones but am not regularly compelled to review them. With Coldwater Revival, however, I would be totally remiss if I didn't express how much I enjoyed this book. Nancy Jo Jenkins has an amazing talent. As someone else has said, her writing is "lyrical" and vivid. The characters are so real and authentic and I loved every one of them. I felt like I went on an emotional journey with Emma Grace and the whole Falin clan and appreciated how the theme of God's love and grace was at the fabric of this story, but not in a preachy or audacious way. I'm sure that most readers, religious or not, can relate to how even in our darkest moments we receive love and comfort from sometimes unexpected places. I was so moved by this story that as I write I'm scrambling for words...and those that I'm writing seem woefully inadequate. All I can say is that the topics of hope and healing are universal. Make sure you have your tissues handy for this one. I feel like I was truly blessed.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: April's Fool (Avalon Romance); Author: Visit Amazon's Blanche Marriott Page; Review: This was such a cute story! I particularly loved the male lead and how romantic he was. Despite his arrogance in the beginning, he was definitely a prince charming. I just wish the story was longer! :); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Good Tidings: A Mary O'Reilly Paranormal Mystery - Book Two; Author: Visit Amazon's Terri Reid Page; Review: What a heart-warming read! Just the right amounts of humor, suspense and romance. Although I usually don't go for paranormal stories, I was certainly moved by this story. A reminder to cherish life every day and to use the gifts you have to enrich the lives of others...like Mary. I also loved the romance between Mary and Bradley. The love scenes were clean with just the right amount of steam. I would recommend this book to everyone.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Soulmate (The Soulmate Series) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Kellie McAllen Page; Review: I absolutely LOVED this book! The story was so fresh and original. I'm excited to read the next book in the series!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Author Startup: A Radical Approach To Rapidly Writing and Self-Publishing Your Book On Amazon; Author: Visit Amazon's Ray Brehm Page; Review: This is really a fantastic little (page-wise) book! I love the fact that it is short and gets directly to the heart of the matter with no fluff or fillers. But yet, Mr. Brehm is very thorough about the essentials of self-publishing. As an aspiring first-time author, I found the advice and action plans to be so practical and easy to follow, which is crucial in this process. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to be an author but not get bogged down or overwhelmed with all that it entails.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fearless Author: Prepare, Publish, and Launch Your Own eBook; Author: Visit Amazon's Ashley Emma Page; Review: Fearless Author is such a wonderful wealth of information from someone who knows her stuff! Ashley Emma shares invaluable and practical information for those who seek to not only publish their book, but do it in a way that is pretty much guaranteed to make their work a best-seller. I loved all of the tips and the way the process is laid out very clearly, with no guess work involved. And I especially enjoyed the free goodies at the end. This book was definitely well worth the read!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Author Gator: Don't Judge A Book By Its Cover; Author: Josh Benya; Review: This was a really wonderful and engaging story!! Although clearly written for kids, it was a great reminder to all of us to treat others as we want to be treated. Overall, this story was truly a breath of fresh air and I look forward to what seeing what other adventures lie ahead for Author Gator!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Yoga For You: Crafting A Yoga Practice For Your Personal Needs; Author: Visit Amazon's Qat Wanders Page; Review: Thoroughly enjoyed this book!! I'm definitely a yoga novice, but I found this book to be both practical and inspirational. Qat Wanders did a fantastic job of presenting yoga in a way that is accessible and really helps the reader not to feel intimidated or overwhelmed. At the same time, there's a lot of great information for those more experienced with yoga as well. I would definitely recommend this book to ANYONE interested in finding out how yoga can work for them!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Her Big Fat Fake Billionaire Boyfriend (Billionaire Series) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Victorine E. Lieske Page; Review: I thoroughly enjoyed this story!! It was sweet, funny, and heartfelt. Both Kenzie and Camden were characters that I really grew attached to, and I found myself rooting for them. I'd love to see a sequel of their story!! It was also a clean romance, which is so very refreshing. I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes a lighthearted romance.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Gator Leaves Nothing Behind - Part II (The Disturbing History Saga); Author: Visit Amazon's Kami Boley Page; Review: This was one of the most riveting stories I've read in a long time!! Definitely one of those books that is so well written and so well developed that it's hard to put down. Already looking forward to Part III!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Secret Journals of Adolf Hitler: Volume I - The Anointed (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's A. G. Mogan Page; Review: This book is the portrait of a life wasted, consumed by cowardice, hate, and self-delusions. And yet while I could not muster an ounce of pity or sympathy for this psychopath, I couldn't help but be genuinely impressed with the clear talent that A.G. Mogan displays. This novel is so well researched and well written that I could barely put it down. Well done.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Deception of Destiny: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Jennifer Walters Page; Review: This book was a real page-turner that had me intrigued from the very beginning!! I really enjoyed how the story takes the reader on an emotional journey into Destiny's world of romance, suspense, and heartbreak. I think this really allows the reader to connect with the character in a very real way. I would definitely recommend this book!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Zoo Med Avian Calcium; Brand: Zoo Med; Review: I had bought this Avian Calcium from Doctors Foster and Smith awhile back; they are a site I trust for good products and information. I now go to that site only for specified selections, and instead come to Amazon for reasonable prices and better shipping options (unless you buy a certain amount from the other site, the shipping and some products can be costly). I have had my Cockatiel for 14 years and his feet had lost gripping power and sometimes he fell from his perch. My veterinarian said to find good food for bone strength, feed him more eggs and meat, as well as buy edible calcium powder for his bones. One powder I tried he could either taste or smell and refused to eat it, and some liquid options wet the food and make it go bad faster. I love this Zoo Med - Avian Calcium: I mix it into his food dish and he eats it like there is nothing there. You can sprinkle it on fresh food or millet as well, just don't over use it past the directions. After 4 months my bird began gripping stronger and does not fall from his perch anymore, I am truly happy with this product and hope it adds many years to my life long best friend.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: PureBites Chicken Breast Freeze-Dried Treats for Dogs; Brand: PureBites; Review: All of my pets love this so very much! I feed this to my cats, ferrets and, occasionally sprinkle on my bird's food as a treat. Cheaper than in pet stores, especially when buying the biggest bag. I vacuum seal in jars and use as needed in order to keep it fresh for a long while. The fact that there is only one ingredient is why I originally bought it... All of my pets, even the finicky ones, loving it is why I continue to buy and recommend it! P.S. Great for training pets since you don't have to worry about it being as unhealthy as normal pet treats.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: PureBites Chicken Breast Freeze-Dried Treats for Dogs; Brand: PureBites; Review: All of my pets love this so very much! I feed this to my cats, ferrets and, occasionally sprinkle on my bird's food as a treat. Cheaper than in pet stores, especially when buying the biggest bag. I vacuum seal in jars and use as needed in order to keep it fresh for a long while. The fact that there is only one ingredient is why I originally bought it... All of my pets, even the finicky ones, loving it is why I continue to buy and recommend it! P.S. Great for training pets since you don't have to worry about it being as unhealthy as normal pet treats.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: ; Brand: Signature Housewares; Review: Really nice quality and appearance. Wish the bowls were deeper so I could use for food and water in the future, but they worked great so that my two younger cats could eat side-by-side. I don't always use the rack, but will once my kittens are full grown. Easy to clean and my one cat can't drag it around while she eats. Overall good buy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pet Naturals of Vermont 30 Count Calming Behavioral Support Soft Chews for Dogs and Cats; Brand: Pet Naturals; Review: Kind of helped, compared to other brands it was more noticeable of a difference in personality. Main benefit is that my cat actually ate them, some other brands must not have smelled as tasty. I wouldn't say these did a fantastic job, but they calmed my cat down a little, which is better than nothing. She was a feral cat who could not decide between wanting love and wanting to hide. Over time, this and a lot of behavior treatment helped make her more of a house cat. If using for traveling, you may want to try something a bit stronger or double the dose if Vet states it is safe to do so.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Zilla Reptile Health Supplies Vitamin Supplement Food Spray, 8-Ounce; Brand: Zilla; Review: Great product, and necessary for my picky eaters. However, the spray nozzle tends to give out or get clogged after a few weeks of use. This has happened a couple times now. I had to purchase a better empty spray bottle. Overall a good staple for your reptiles, just plan on getting another bottle sooner than later.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Pet_Supplies
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Fiber One 90 Calorie Brownies, Chocolate, Peanut Butter, 5.34-Ounce (Pack of 4); Brand: Fiber One; Review: I love these bars. I keep them at work for when I'm a little hungry, or if I start to crave chocolate. It's much better to go for one of these than to stop by the candy bowl my boss keeps!!! I am doing WW and these are minimal points. They taste good. Not as good as a real peanut butter brownie, of course, but good nonetheless. And they're big enough that you can eat one and feel satisfied. Definitely recommend for fellow dieters.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Crystal Light On The Go Energy Grape - Caffeine Energy Releasing, 10-Packet Boxes (Pack of 4); Brand: Crystal Light; Review: I love the Crystal Light Energy products -- grape is my favorite flavor, but strawberry is good, too. Each box has ten packets, and you get 4 total boxes (40 packets) with this order. The boxes are pretty small, and fit easily into my purse. Each packet of the drink mix has 10 calories and 60mg of caffeine. They divide it up into 2 servings, but given that each packet goes into one bottle of water, it seems unlikely that anyone would consume just 1/2 a packet. Sometimes, when I'm really tired, I put 2 packets into my bottle of water. The taste is extra strong and I get twice the caffeine!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hoosier Hill Farm Wasabi Peas, 5 lbs. (80 oz.); Brand: Hoosier Hill Farm; Review: I love wasabi peas, and this is a huge bag of them. But overall, the quality was bad. MAny of them were hard, which made me worry (literally) that they'd break my teeth. I would not buy again.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Popchips Potato Chips, Sea Salt, 6.25 Ounce, (Pack of 6); Brand: popchips; Review: I love these chips, especially when I'm dieting. I use them as my "treat." I do Weight Watchers, and these aren't many points. Combine them with some salsa, or maybe some hummus or guacamole if I've saved up enough points. However, these even taste good without any dip. If I want something salty, these are great. I honestly don't even miss potato chips -- these are a wonderful substitute.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Orbit Spearmint Sugarfree Gum, 14 Pieces (12 Pack); Brand: Orbit Gum; Review: I like to have gum on hand. I especially like it as a dieting tool: when I have the urge to eat and I'm not really hungry, I chew some gum and that usually does the trick. Orbit is definitely my favorite brand of gum. I find that each piece keeps its flavor for at least an hour, and it doesn't get that dried-out, tacky feeling. I suppose you could say that it stays moist, and doesn't really lose its texture. I've chewed minty flavors for years, and then last year I got into the Cinnamon flavor. All of those are great! I ended up buying the bubblegum flavor simply because it was much less expensive, and I figured, "why not?!" I am really enjoying the flavor. Bubblegum isn't a flavor I have very often. It's sweet, too, which really satisfies my sugar tooth. Plus, I like how when I have an open pack, my purse gets a sweet smell! Overall, this was a great purchase. You get two boxes, each of which has 14 pieces. So, aside from just the sheer quantity of gum, I like that I have several layers of plastic wrap protecting the packs of gum. Seriously. I live in a climate that gets very hot and humid during the summer, and if my gum isn't protected, it gets all mushy and loses its flavor. It gets ruined! So, given that it will take me a while to use this whole thing, I'm very glad that each pack, and each box, is covered in cellophane and will last! Overall: I definitely recommend. Especially with the subscribe & save pricing, you can't buy good-quality gum at a better price! And the bubble gum flavor is a sweet little treat that reminds you of when you were a kid.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Popchips potato chips VARIETY PACK 4-flavors, share bag 3.5 Ounce (Pack of 12); Brand: popchips; Review: I got turned on to Popchips by my sister, who keeps a very trim figure, and from some websites that provide dieting tips. To me, these are an essential part of my dieting plan. Popchips have so much less fat than other snack foods, and I really love that you can eat a lot of Popchips in a serving. The variety pack contains (1) regular Sea Salt; (2) Sea Salt and Vinegar; (3) Sour Cream and Onion; and (4) Barbecue. The 3.5 ounce bag contains 2.5 servings, per the nutrition label. The barbecue is my favorite flavor, but that's just me. I think that each of the flavors tastes a lot like potato chips with the same flavoring. They're not as greasy, and they're a little thicker than a potato chip. But I think it's easy to switch from a potato chip to a popchip. Definitely recommend! I will keep buying.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Maruchan chicken noodle soup pack of 36 - 3 oz; Brand: Maruchan Ramen; Review: As we get toward winter, I decided that I need to have some foods in my apartment that won't go bad, and that I can keep on hand in case the weather gets really bad. (Where I live, the roads don't always get treated quickly, and it can be difficult to get to the store.) So I purchased this box of 36 packs of Ramen, and I have them in a closet to just keep on hand. Really, they're the perfect food for this. All you need is some hot water to cook them -- and since I have a gas stove, I can cook them even if the power goes out! But aside from those "emergencies," I'll use the Ramen for just regular times. I keep seeing blog postings where food connoisseurs concoct all kinds of cool Ramen-based recipes. So when I start to get crafty, I'll try some of those recipes out. The shipping was fast and easy. I'm a Prime member, but I chose "no-rush" shipping and Amazon was so thankful that they gave me $1 off on a kindle book. So the price was even better!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pop Secret Microwave Popcorn, 94% Fat Free Butter, 3 Count Box (Pack of 6); Brand: Pop Secret; Review: This item arrived quickly. I like to keep some microwave popcorn on hand; it's my preferred "treat." I've tried all the different brands, and Pop Secret is the best. Some of the other brands (Act II, in particular) don't seem to cook evenly in the microwave, so I either end up with a lot of unpopped kernels, or else part of the bag is over-cooked. I don't know how the quality of popcorn kernels differs, I just know that based on my experience, Pop Secret is my preferred brand. I also like the Movie Theater Butter. It's very very flavorful, but it doesn't leave my hands covered in gunk. Also, when you compare the calories and fat content, this is actually a little bit better for you than the regular butter flavor. I've never understood why that is, but I'll take it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pop Secret Popcorn, Light Butter, 3 Ounce Microwave Bags, 3 Count Boxes (Pack of 12); Brand: Pop Secret; Review: This item arrived quickly. I like to keep some microwave popcorn on hand; it's my preferred "treat." I've tried all the different brands, and Pop Secret is the best. Some of the other brands (Act II, in particular) don't seem to cook evenly in the microwave, so I either end up with a lot of unpopped kernels, or else part of the bag is over-cooked. I don't know how the quality of popcorn kernels differs, I just know that based on my experience, Pop Secret is my preferred brand. I also like the Movie Theater Butter. It's very very flavorful, but it doesn't leave my hands covered in gunk. Also, when you compare the calories and fat content, this is actually a little bit better for you than the regular butter flavor. I've never understood why that is, but I'll take it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pop Secret Popcorn, Extra Butter, 3.2 Ounce Microwave Bags, 6 Count Boxes (Pack of 6); Brand: Pop Secret; Review: This item arrived quickly. I like to keep some microwave popcorn on hand; it's my preferred "treat." I've tried all the different brands, and Pop Secret is the best. Some of the other brands (Act II, in particular) don't seem to cook evenly in the microwave, so I either end up with a lot of unpopped kernels, or else part of the bag is over-cooked. I don't know how the quality of popcorn kernels differs, I just know that based on my experience, Pop Secret is my preferred brand. I also like the Movie Theater Butter. It's very very flavorful, but it doesn't leave my hands covered in gunk. Also, when you compare the calories and fat content, this is actually a little bit better for you than the regular butter flavor. I've never understood why that is, but I'll take it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: ONE ORGANIC Matcha Green Tea Powder (250g) - USDA Certified Organic; Brand: One Organic; Review: I have tried making this tea several times, but without much success. I haven't been able to get this powder to absorb into the water. I am going to try using it in smoothies, as some other commenters have suggested, because this matcha tea is so healthy. I am confident that it would be a great addition to my diet. I would encourage the company to work on making this product easier to absorb, for those of us who enjoy drinking tea.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: SKITTLES--Original Candy--Assorted Fruit Flavored Candy--Skittles Original Bite-Sized Candies--Resealable Pouch--1-54oz. Bag; Brand: Skittles; Review: I love Skittles! And there are SO MANY Skittles in these two packages -- maybe even enough that I could recreate the "skittles falling from the sky like rain" commercial. =) It's a great buy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pop Secret Microwave Popcorn, 94% Fat Free Butter, 3 Count Box (Pack of 6); Brand: Pop Secret; Review: This popcorn is fresh and tasty. Each popped kernel has the butter flavor because the flavoring spreads out evenly in the bag. Also, there is not so much flavoring that your hands become coated with butter when you eat it. And with the subscribe and save discount, the price is great. I can't find the Pop-Secret popcorn in my grocery store for this good of a price. The store brand (Kroger's) is less expensive, but the quality is worse.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pop Secret Popcorn, Light Butter, 3 Ounce Microwave Bags, 3 Count Boxes (Pack of 12); Brand: Pop Secret; Review: This popcorn is fresh and tasty. Each popped kernel has the butter flavor because the flavoring spreads out evenly in the bag. Also, there is not so much flavoring that your hands become coated with butter when you eat it. And with the subscribe and save discount, the price is great. I can't find the Pop-Secret popcorn in my grocery store for this good of a price. The store brand (Kroger's) is less expensive, but the quality is worse.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pop Secret Popcorn, Extra Butter, 3.2 Ounce Microwave Bags, 6 Count Boxes (Pack of 6); Brand: Pop Secret; Review: This popcorn is fresh and tasty. Each popped kernel has the butter flavor because the flavoring spreads out evenly in the bag. Also, there is not so much flavoring that your hands become coated with butter when you eat it. And with the subscribe and save discount, the price is great. I can't find the Pop-Secret popcorn in my grocery store for this good of a price. The store brand (Kroger's) is less expensive, but the quality is worse.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Miracle Noodle Zero Carb, Gluten Free Shirataki Pasta, Spinach Angel Hair, 7-Ounce (Pack of 24); Brand: Miracle Noodle; Review: I really wanted to like these noodles, which I've heard so much about. But I just couldn't get past the texture and look. I felt like I was eating brains. I ended up throwing out almost the entire meal that I made with these, and then I actually pitched the rest of the bags, too. I just couldn't see myself eating them again. (Beware that Amazon doesn't let you return food!) I am only giving 2 stars because I personally didn't like it, but I would actually encourage other people to try these. Because if you do like them, they are such a good alternative to pasta and other carbs.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Planters Dry Roasted Peanuts, Dry Roasted, Lightly Salted, 16 Ounce (Pack of 12); Brand: Planters; Review: This pack of peanuts was a fantastic deal. I got it with a coupon and through Subscribe and Save. My family is almost through the second jar, and I know that I will not be cancelling my subscription. These peanuts are fresh and not too salty. My only complaint -- which is really an inevitability -- is that when you get towards the bottom of each jar, it is full of broken bits and gets quite messy. I ended up tossing the first package when it got down that far because I didn't want peanut dust everywhere. Peanuts are a great source of plant-based protein. I have been using a low-carb diet to lose a few pounds, and peanuts have been a central part of my diet. Highly reccommend; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Planters Peanuts, Honey Roasted & Salted, 52 Ounce Canister (Pack of 2); Brand: Planters; Review: This pack of peanuts was a fantastic deal. I got it with a coupon and through Subscribe and Save. My family is almost through the second jar, and I know that I will not be cancelling my subscription. These peanuts are fresh and not too salty. My only complaint -- which is really an inevitability -- is that when you get towards the bottom of each jar, it is full of broken bits and gets quite messy. I ended up tossing the first package when it got down that far because I didn't want peanut dust everywhere. Peanuts are a great source of plant-based protein. I have been using a low-carb diet to lose a few pounds, and peanuts have been a central part of my diet. Highly reccommend; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Planters Flavored Peanuts, Sea Salt & Vinegar, 2.25 Ounce Single Serve Bag (Pack of 10); Brand: Planters; Review: This pack of peanuts was a fantastic deal. I got it with a coupon and through Subscribe and Save. My family is almost through the second jar, and I know that I will not be cancelling my subscription. These peanuts are fresh and not too salty. My only complaint -- which is really an inevitability -- is that when you get towards the bottom of each jar, it is full of broken bits and gets quite messy. I ended up tossing the first package when it got down that far because I didn't want peanut dust everywhere. Peanuts are a great source of plant-based protein. I have been using a low-carb diet to lose a few pounds, and peanuts have been a central part of my diet. Highly reccommend; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Planters Salted Peanuts, 2 oz Single Serve Bags, (Pack of 144); Brand: Planters; Review: This pack of peanuts was a fantastic deal. I got it with a coupon and through Subscribe and Save. My family is almost through the second jar, and I know that I will not be cancelling my subscription. These peanuts are fresh and not too salty. My only complaint -- which is really an inevitability -- is that when you get towards the bottom of each jar, it is full of broken bits and gets quite messy. I ended up tossing the first package when it got down that far because I didn't want peanut dust everywhere. Peanuts are a great source of plant-based protein. I have been using a low-carb diet to lose a few pounds, and peanuts have been a central part of my diet. Highly reccommend; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Grocery_and_Gourmet_Food
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Melissa & Doug Decorate-Your-Own Wooden Train and Race Car Craft Kits, Set of 2; Brand: Melissa & Doug; Review: This craft thrilled the 5 year old train lover in my family. He could create his OWN train and paint it however he wanted...of course it looks identical to Thomas (or as close as a 5 year old could get it!!) He loved painting the train and putting the decals on! It's a nice thing for him to set on his desk- however he was kind of disappointed that it's wheels didn't move...but after explaining that it's a decoration he understands that it's not a toy! He had a blast making it on a rainy afternoon!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Circus Party Decorations - Circus Poster - Big Top Circus Theme Photo Opportunity Banner Backdrop, 40-Inch x 50-Inch; Brand: Creative Converting; Review: This was one of the favorite things at my daughters 2nd birthday party! The kids all LOVED sticking their faces in the holes...and it made a nice keepsake for my daughter to look back and remember everyone that came! Plus the kids all had a picture to look at later! :) very pleased! It also handled being man handled by a bunch of little kids!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: WWE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BELT; Brand: WWE; Review: It was kind of small--- more like a kids belt! Not for adults--- but it was worn over a shoulder instead of around the waist....same effect!; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Pre-Cool Half Shell Heroes Sewer Lair Playset with Michelangelo and Splinter Figures; Brand: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; Review: Best price for this there was! My 5 y/o LOVES this set. She likes playing w/ the smaller figurines so it's awesome!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: LEGO l Disney Frozen Anna & Kristoff's Sleigh Adventure 41066 Disney Toy; Brand: LEGO; Review: Huge hit for Christmas!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Disney Frozen Little Kingdom Elsa’s Frozen Castle; Brand: Disney Frozen; Review: This isn't a bad toy--- but there isn't really a lot there for the price you pay! My daughter likes smaller toys an she liked this for the first week she had it....but it's not something I would purchase again... It will be nice to take on vacation to have for rain days....but other than that it sits in the toy box. It's a decent product though! Not shabby made or anything-- just not much there to do!; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Toys_and_Games
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: The Parisi Hotel; City: York North Yorkshire England; Review: Absolutely beautiful. Hotel kindly changed dates at no extra costs plus free upgrade when family member too ill to travel. Breakfast exceptional, bathroom pristine, staff extremely welcoming. Well done!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Radisson Blu Edwardian Manchester; City: Manchester Greater Manchester England; Review: Booked this hotel as it is in an ideal location for night at the Albert Hall across the road. Beds extremely comfortable, clean bathroom, double sinks and mirror between bedroom and bathroom. Very quiet - good night's sleep. If you don't require housekeeping to change your towels or bedding - the money saved on cleaning goes to charity, Tried to turn tv off at 11.30pm and remote wouldn't work, went to reception and member of staff came up promptly with another replacement remote. Free metroshuttle bus stops outside hotel, great for return to Piccadilly station on morning of departure.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Parisi Hotel; City: York North Yorkshire England; Review: Having stayed here before I booked again without hesitation. Absolutely loved our stay, staff outstanding, they really make you feel at home.Can't wait to return to enjoy amazing hospitality. Thank you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Masons Arms; City: York North Yorkshire England; Review: Excellent Sunday lunch, huge portion size, luckily I eat all vegetables as on a traditional Sunday lunch I expected carrots and swede, however I received broccoli, cauliflower and courgette. All beautifully cooked but may not be everyone's taste. The meat was plentiful and cooked to perfection, the gravy meaty and thick, Yorkshire pudding absolutely huge and just as I like it (more soft and spongy and not crisp and brittle like some places serve up) Empty plate at the end of the meal, which is a testament to their cooking.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Cornerways Guest House; City: Carlisle Cumbria England; Review: Central location, short walking distance from train station. Exceptionally clean, warm welcome from Adele. Very comfortable beds, very quiet. Great base to get trains across border and to Lakes. Will definitely return.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Jessica Simpson Women's Waleo Platform Pump; Brand: ; Review: LOVE this pump. It looks just as good on as in the picture. Now, with that said definitely not a "long distance" walking shoe. Would not wear out to the mall to shop on your lunch hour! Otherwise, they are very true to size and look fantastic. I'm 5'2" and they make me feel 6' tall...that's what I like!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Volatile Women's Radius Thong Sandal; Brand: ; Review: I LOVE the color and the fit. It being a platform makes it comfortable to wear and still being "high heeled" per se - I'm short, so I wear a lot of 4"-5" high heel shoes and this allows me to be more comfortable without giving up shoe height.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Volatile Women's Frappacino Thong; Brand: ; Review: LOVE these - perfect height - I'm only 5'2" and I like a little height, but casual shoe that you can wear with shorts. Perfect!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Volatile Women's Hawaii Thong Sandal; Brand: ; Review: I have several pairs of Volatile and I always wear a size 6, however, this size 6 was like a 5 1/2. Really weird. Returned and re-ordered different style.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Timex Women's T2N966 Elevated Classics Leopard Patterned Strap Watch; Brand: Timex; Review: The watch is cute, and you can't beat a Timex, however, I do wish the band would have been a little wider. I LOVE the indiglo push button so you can light it up in the dark - much better than glow in the dark digits.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: New Balance Women's W690 Neutral Cushioning Running Shoe; Brand: ; Review: Comfortable, and color is really cool - however, some of the stitching/workmanship is poor - but, I like them.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: OTBT Women's Bushnell Wedge Sandal; Brand: ; Review: LOVE these shoes!!!!! Just as comfortable as they look! This color goes with anything - shorts, skirts, jeans...LOVE THEM!!!! I highly recommend.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Nine West Women's Tatiana Dark Natural Suede Dress Pump; Brand: ; Review: The toe was uncomfortably narrow - I have several pairs of Nine West pointed toe pumps, but these were a little more snug than I'm normally used to.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Stride Rite Soft Motion Buttercup Mary Jane (Infant/Toddler); Brand: ; Review: I could not answer a couple of the questions asked as the shoes are for my granddaughter - However, they were slightly tight across the top of her foot - just above the toes, not the strap part, and toddlers tend to have chubby feet.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Stride Rite SRTech Cheyenne Boot (Toddler); Brand: ; Review: I would recommend ordering a size up because when you put socks on, and with a toddler's feet being chubby most of the time, then they end up being a little snug.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: DAWGS Toddlers' 3-Strap Sandals; Brand: DAWGS; Review: These were for my grandaughter that is 2 1/2 and they are so cute, love the neutral color, and she likes them too. I certainly can't comment on the second question above regarding comfort since I'm not the one wearing them, but she seems to like them.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: FootMates Sherry 2 (Toddler/Little Kid); Brand: FootMates; Review: These are really cute, and this color goes with everything!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Moxeay Womens Blanket Oversized Tartan Scarf Wrap Shawl Cozy Checked Pashmina; Brand: Moxeay; Review: LOVE it!!!!! Perfect size - I'm ordering another one in a different color!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Simply Organic Cayenne Pepper Certified Organic, 2.89-Ounce Container; Brand: Simply Organic; Review: good stuff; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Volcano Dust 2 - Smoked Habanero and Bhut Jolokia (Ghost) Powder - Hotter; Brand: Volcanic Peppers; Review: not as tasty as I'd hoped for; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Torie and Howard Organic Hard Candy Lemon and Raspberry, 2 Ounce; Brand: Torie and Howard Organic Hard Candy; Review: great candy; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Viva Naturals Organic Raw Chia Seeds (1 LB); Brand: Viva Naturals; Review: great product & great service; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dave's Hot Smoked Habanero Powder (1 Pack); Brand: Dave's Gourmet; Review: great hot; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Grocery_and_Gourmet_Food
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: The Mel Brooks Collection; Brand: Gene Wilder; Review: Brother loved it. Good collection; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Battle Creek Brawl aka ""The Big Brawl"" VHS; Brand: Jackie Chan; Review: Great 70's karate film. Jackie Chan is great; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Corner; Brand: T.K. Carter; Review: Good series; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Red Green Show - 1997 Season; Brand: Steve Smith; Review: I really like this show. Very funny!!!!! It is guaranteed to make you laugh.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Peanuts 1960's Collection (A Charlie Brown Christmas / Charlie Brown's All-Stars / It's the Great Pumpkin; Brand: Various; Review: I love these shows. Great collection!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: ESPN Films - Unguarded; Brand: Jonathan Hock; Review: This is a great documentary on the impact of drug use.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Movies_and_TV
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Styrofoam Mannequin Head with Female Face (1); Brand: NaRaMax; Review: Good size and it doing the work.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Wisehands 39 Spools Rainbow Polyester Sewing Thread Box Kit Set for Quilting Stitching and Hand Sewing Multicolor; Brand: GENGERIC; Review: Well packed though have not used it yet but I think it is durable enough to hold thick fabrics.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: CraftbuddyUS 80 Ab Clear Faceted Acrylic Sew On, Stick on Diamante Crystal Rhinestone Gems; Brand: Craftbuddy US; Review: Beautiful and sparkly too. Was so beautiful on my head wrap that I made.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Angelus Shoe Bottom Coat and Restorer - 2 Ounces; Brand: Angelus; Review: This really close to CL color. You really have to look so closely to see the difference. I really applaud the manufacturers. My CL shoes noe look like new.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Morenitor Beaded Bracelet Handmade Carved Sterling Silver Plated Snake Chain Charms Bracelet Valentine's Day Jewelry Gifts for Her, 19.5cm; Brand: Morenitor; Review: This was for a gift and the girl likes it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Arts_Crafts_and_Sewing
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Oxford Ivy Men's Heavy Solid Stainless Steel Chain Link Bracelet 8 1/2 inches; Brand: Oxford Ivy; Review: I bought this as a gift for my husband. He was very surprised when he opened the Amazon box and found his Christmas present! He absolutley loves it and told me he has received many compliments from men and women. It was promptly sent and came in a nice velvet jewelry gift tie string bag. You can dress this up or go casual and pair it with other bracelets. It's the guy fashion statement now for men to stack bracelets and this one works alone or with others. I got it on sale so I feel like I got a "steal". Hubby loves it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sloggers Women's Wide Brim Braided Sun Hat with Wind Lanyard - Dark Brown - UPF 50+ Maximum Sun; Brand: Sloggers; Review: Love this hat. Looks great. Looking forward to seeing how it holds up in the Florida sun and boating.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: NY Deal Women's Sexy Sleeveless High Low Dress; Brand: NY Deal; Review: Very cheap construction. Elastic already raveling. I don't suggest this dress. You get less than what you paid for.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Aerosoles Women's Dorothea Dress Sandal; Brand: ; Review: I love these shoes and bought them in two colors. However, they get three stars because they SQUEEK when I walk on carpet - which would be my whole office. Maybe it was a fluke...in two different colors??? I am not one to return things through the mail so that is my bad. Cute shoes but I am almost ready to donate them due to the squeeks.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sterling Silver 2mm Thin Clutchless Hoop Earrings, 2 in. (50mm); Brand: ; Review: I really like them. However I am concerned with the durability of the clasps. Otherwise I really like them.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ann Chery Women's Faja Clasica Waist Cincher; Brand: Ann Chery; Review: I have only had this product for a week. Folks are correct, the outside layer of latex has a little bit of an oder at first. Next, trying to get the thing on. Buy up a size! I would not suggest this product for those of you who are short waisted. I am 5'7" and weight fluctuating between 180-190. This corset hits right up under my breasts and the bottom hits right at the waist. Come on folks, where do you think that extra skin is going to go in the beginning - the top and the bottom. But if you wear the right clothes. you can't really see the "overflow". This is not a garment that will make extra fat "disappear" without wearing it daily. It is possible to wear under office clothes, if you wear the right outfit until you get into shape. Like others said, getting the thing on was a workout itself. I put it on and didn't take it off for 3 days, slept in it, etc. (weekend). I did not shower in it, just did the wash with wash towel. Was a a bit uncomfortable to sleep in, maybe because it is new. I did find that putting powder on the area before putting it again made it a little easier but getting the thing still took me a good 5 mins. I believe it will get easier the more I do it. I will check back in a month. Remember - Look at the chart, but I actually ordered 2 sizes larger because I am rather "thick" in the middle.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore: An Unexpected Journey; Author: Wayne Jacobsen; Review: I have met the author of this book and he is true follower of Christ. What Jake had experienced in this book is similar to what I went through in my journey away from the walls of religion to a free and delightful walk with Christ. This book helped me to escape the traditionalsim I had been brought up in as a pastor's son and as a pastor. Frank Viola's book, Pagan Christianity?: Exploring the Roots of Our Church Practices, Wayne Jacobsen's book, He Loves Me! Learning to Live In the Father's Affection, and my book Free Indeed?: Are Christians Free Indeed or Enslaved by Religion? will accentuate Jake Colsen's (Wayne Jacobsen) book nicely. These books will explain why there are such love-hate feelings about the Church. BUY THIS BOOK! (you'll love it!); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pagan Christianity: The Origins of Our Modern Church Practices; Author: Frank A. Viola; Review: I read the first edition of this book and then the second one--I found very little difference. The layout of the book is better, cleaner, and more reader friendly. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to see why the Church does what it does. It will be surprising to many that what the Church does through its traditions has very little to do with being free in Christ and following him. It is mostly due to Pagan Christianity that inspired me to leave traditionalism to write books of my own. Through Frank's book, I began to evaluate the time I spent as a pastor's and missionary's kid, being a church member, all of the seminary training I received, and the experiences I had as a pastor. As a result of begining my journey away from religion and to God (with Frank's book), I am free and I no longer have any "should's" or "have to's" to be on God's good side. God loves me and his grace is sufficient for me. I now have a friendship and peace with God and my fellow belivers without the pretense of churchianity. I hope you will find the same peace and freedom I have found. Knowing God is simple and does not require going to a building, listening to sermons, obeying the clergy, tithing, etc. I finally know what Christ said, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free." I've checked Frank's sources and discovered that some of them I used in the Baptist seminary I graduated from. I have used many of the same resources Frank used in this book in the book he inspired me to write Free Indeed?: Are Christians Free Indeed or Enslaved by Religion?. This book will help you be free from the traditions of church and men so you can begin enjoying just being with God. I highly recommend other books that goes along nicely with this one: Revolution;The Untold Story of the New Testament Church: An Extraordinary Guide to Understanding the New Testament;The Story of Christianity, Volume 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation (Story of Christianity); my book Free Indeed?: Are Christians Free Indeed or Enslaved by Religion?. As far a Bible translation that is reader friendly, I recommend the Gift and Award Bible NLT (Gift and Award Bible: New Living Translation-2). All of these books are beneficial to understand freedom in Christ. Enjoy!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Expert Podcasting Practices For Dummies; Author: Visit Amazon's Tee Morris Page; Review: This book is a good book to supplement other books on podcasting, especially Podcasting for Dummies. I wish it had more information on microphones, but over all, I enjoy having this book as a reference guide. I don't rely on one book for any subject, so I get other books to supplement and compliment each other. This author has some good input that is beneficial to a newbe like me. I would recommend this book to you for a good help to you in your podcasting endeavors.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Corinthian Elders; Author: Visit Amazon's Jack Fortenberry Page; Review: "Corinthian Elders" In his essay entitled "Corinthian Elders" Jack shows his passion for authentic and simple life as a body of believers in Christ. He is clear that elders are not a position, but a function that results from age and spiritual experience. In other words, age and experience chooses believers and elders--not a vote, ordination, or seminary training. On page 21 in the section entitled "To Preach or not to Preach," Jack gives the whole point of his essay: "... the point [of this essay] is simply that we are guilty of not loving each other as were those brothers in Corinth which indicates we are not looking to Christ." As believers, in whatever setting we find ourselves in, whether it is an institutional setting, house church, or any kind of meeting for that matter, our focus must be on Christ and not on theologically skilled, dynamic personalities who play the part of a positional leader. We all love a good show and great speaking abilities, but Jack reminds us that good speakers and clerical positions are not the ones we follow, but that Christ is. We empower men and women to take up positions of power over us when we allow our ears to be tickled by them; a good and polished speaker easily replaces Christ as our leader when we religiously adhere to his or her speaking abilities. Having our ears tickled by a good speaker is another way of saying being entertained by a good speaker. Preachers are trained in the art of oratory; the art of oratory aims to get an audience eating out of the palm of a preacher/speaker's hand. I speak from experience from being a former pastor and seminary graduate. A true elder of the faith, that is, an aged person experienced in walking with Christ, will always point people to Christ and his leadership and away from himself. John the Baptist said this about Jesus, "He must become greater, I must become less." John had a lot of people who wanted to follow him, but he taught that only Christ was worthy to follow. Instead of having our ears tickled by the kind of speaker we want to listen to, we'd be better off letting Christ's Spirit lead us through our hearts as Jeremiah 31:31-34 proclaims. Over all Jack does a good job in this essay. I really appreciated Jack pointing people away from human leadership and towards Christ. Jack's passion on the subject of biblical eldership is evident throughout this short book. It's apparent that Jack thoroughly and thoughtfully complied this book to help the reader gain a better understanding of New Testament elders. I've corresponded with Jack several times via email and from what I know thus far I can say he truly loves Christ and his body. You'd be doing yourself a favor by purchasing this book. For further reading, I'd like to recommend some other books for you to read. Soul Rape: Why People Hate Going to Church, Distrust Clergy, Avoid Religion, Keep Searching for God, and the Revolution; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: One: The Gospel According to Mike; Author: Michael Williams; Review: This book is really what the title claims, "the gospel according Mike. It contains some truth (as does typical Christianity), but some of that truth is slanted in the way the author wanted to slant it. Rat poison has 99.99% edible food and .01% poison; because something contains a lot of truth does not make the whole thing true. This book remands me to not count on what men say, but to rely on Gods spirit to teach me himself. I might be disappointed in this book if it wasn't for the fact that Jesus is the originator of my faith and not Williams. I do not recommend buying this book, and I threw my copy in the garbage can. However, I do recommend talking to God and asking him for his wisdom to teach you the truth. Any book in English, including the bible, is subject the writers opinions about the truth; this book is no different. Gods spirit is not subject to any book, man, doctrine, or whims of religious humanity. Enough said.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Grandpappy's Recipes for Hard Times; Author: Visit Amazon's Robert Wayne Atkins P.E. Page; Review: Handy dandy resource to have around to teach how to do basic things around the house to save money. Even though Im no prepper, preppers might find this a handy resource to have around.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Universalism, the Prevailing Doctrine of the Christian Church During Its First Five Hundred Years; Author: John Wesley Hanson; Review: Good book to have. This is another resource that questions the wisdom of pre-milineal dispensationalism.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Diabetic Cookery: Recipes and Menus (Cooking in America); Author: Rebecca Oppenheimer; Review: Before the cancer-diabetic Food Pyramid came out diabetics were treated with a low-carb high-fat diet. Now the educated medical profession recommends the very thing for diabetics to eat that made them diabetic to begin with, carbs. My dietitian recommended that I eat about 65 grams of carbs at every meal. BLAH! Low-carn high-fat is what works for me. This is a good resource book and proves that modern conventional wisdom about diet is, well, stupidity.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The End of All Things: A Defense of the Future; Author: C. Jonathin Seraiah; Review: I was curious so I bought this book. However, like most religious writers Seraiah sets out to cast dispersions on those that won't buy into his version of traditional Christianity's variations of eschatology. 33,000-plus denominations is indicative of how splintered Christianity is because of theologians rendering of ancient texts that were written to ancient people, not to or for contemporary audiences. If Christianity was actually a religion of love it wouldn't be so divided ... into 33,000-plus sects that all believe they're the only ones doing church right.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Social Media: How to Skyrocket Your Business Through Social Media Marketing! Master Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, & LinkedIn; Author: Visit Amazon's Andy Anderson Page; Review: I received this ebook at a discount for giving my review. I found this book well-organized and written in a conversational tone that I found easy to follow. The information contained in the book followed a natural progression and went into detail about how to use the different social media venues, and which one would be best for different business types. I found this book to be informative, and I would recommend that entrepreneurs add it to their reading lists.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Kindred (Jefferson Tayte Genealogical Mystery); Author: Visit Amazon's Steve Robinson Page; Review: I've read every book in this series, and I'm not sure which is my favorite. I've devoured each one, and I'm impatiently waiting for the next one.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Red Hill (Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery) (Volume 1); Author: Visit Amazon's David Penny Page; Review: Aside from a few grammatical errors, this novel was well-written, and I had trouble putting it down. I'll be sure to read the other books in this series.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Breaker of Bones (Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's David Penny Page; Review: Although the story is exciting, there are a few spots where it seems to skip a portion of the narrative. Also, there are grammatical errors.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Sin Eater (Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery); Author: Visit Amazon's David Penny Page; Review: This is my favorite in this series. But now, I'm disappointed because this series is over, and now the search continues...; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Maisie Dobbs (Book 1); Author: Visit Amazon's Jacqueline Winspear Page; Review: Maisie Dobbs is a compassionate investigator who discovers things about herself as she probes mysteries. I'm a fan of historical fiction, and I enjoy reading this series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas Low Top Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Ox; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Ox; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Unisex Chuck Taylor All-Star High-Top Casual Sneakers in Classic Style and Color and Durable Canvas Uppers; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top (International Version) Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top (International Version) Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top (International Version); Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Ox; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas Low Top Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Core Hi; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Ox; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Core Hi; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Core Hi; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Unisex Chuck Taylor All-Star High-Top Casual Sneakers in Classic Style and Color and Durable Canvas Uppers; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Unisex Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top Red Sneakers - 5.5 D(M) US; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Ox; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Unisex Chuck Taylor All Star Ox Low Top Navy Sneakers - 9 D(M) US; Brand: Converse; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top Black MonochromeSneakers - 6.5 B(M) US; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top (International Version) Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse C/T All Star Hi Little Kids Fashion Sneakers Black; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Men's Chuck Taylor All Star Leather Low Top Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top (International Version) Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Unisex Chuck Taylor All Star Hi Top Sneaker Shoes Navy Blue (7.5); Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas Low Top Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Leather Low Top Sneaker; Brand: ; Review: Bought these for my daughter. The fit is as expected.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: A+ All-In-One Certification Exam Guide; Author: Visit Amazon's Michael Meyers Page; Review: I read this volume cover to cover It covered the hardware quite well, but the author was long winded and confusing at times. He did not cover a lot of the Windows 2000 operating system in great depth, or printers, or networking to any extent. It got me through the test, but I wouldn't have passed without my transcenders software.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Woodworking with the Router (Reader's Digest Woodworking); Author: Bill Hylton; Review: This book was advertised as very good, but should have been described as excellent. The subject of the book was well defined and It was excellant reading. The author is knowledgeable and it was evident that all plans were well thought out. I had good service and exceptional delivery time from this seller. I got the package three days ahead of schedule and it was very well wrapped. The seller has been put into my contact list as the people to go to for books that I want to get ahold of... I would buy from them again in a heartbeat, knowing that they would get me what I needed when I wanted it. I look forward to the next edition of Woodworking with the router.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Magic Lantern Guides: Nikon D5100; Author: Visit Amazon's Simon Stafford Page; Review: This book instructs well, but could use a bit more organization with regard to menus and specific screens. Great for beginners.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Router Book: A Complete Guide to the Router and Its Accessories; Author: Visit Amazon's Pat Warner Page; Review: Any time a book says that it is a Complete guide, it is going to place a bull-eyes on the product. This book is excellent reading, but falls way short of a complete anything, when it comes to being a guide. There are a lot of jigs, patterns, and methods of use templates, that are not even covered in this book. Most of the information was a repeat of old material. It was good reading, but really, I should have checked out of the library, where it would not have cost me anything.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Taunton's Complete Illustrated Guide to Routers (Complete Illustrated Guides (Taunton)); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonnie Bird Page; Review: This book makes good reading, but could be updated. The models of routers shown are old and now outdated. For a complete guide to routers, it is lacking quite a bit in the area of use of guides, jigs, and templates.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Advanced Table Saw Tips eBook; Author: The Family Handyman Editors; Review: Great information, but wish that there was more to it. Lots of good information, just wish it was easier to read.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with news articles as follows: Title: 'Wheel Of Fortune' Guest Delivers Hilarious, Off The Rails Introduction; Abstract: We'd like to solve the puzzle, Pat: Blair Davis' loveless marriage? On Monday, "Wheel of Fortune" welcomed as a new contestant trucking business owner Blair Davis, who offered a biting introduction for himself. When host Pat Sajak asked the man from Cardiff, California, about his family, Davis plunged into one of the darkest personal summaries the show has likely ever heard. "I've been trapped in a loveless marriage for the last 12 years to an...; Category: tv Title: My stepmother hid my father's will and bequeathed their home to her daughter how can I claim my inheritance?; Abstract: 'I know my father wanted to provide for her while she was living. I was told he wouldn't let her sell the house while she was alive.'; Category: finance Title: Week in celebrity photos for Oct. 21-25, 2019; Abstract: Week in celebrity photos for Oct. 21-25, 2019; Category: entertainment Title: Heidi Klum's 2019 Halloween Costume Transformation Is Mind-Blowing But, Like, What Is It?; Abstract: You might say she's scary good at playing dress-up, because Heidi Klum's 2019 Halloween costume is even more impressive than we could have imagined and that's saying a lot, considering transformative Halloween costumes are kind of her thing. But this year Klum took it up one more notch as she shared her metamorphosis into,; Category: lifestyle Title: Here Are the Biggest Deals We're Anticipating for Black Friday; Abstract: The Black Friday deals for 2019 have already begun leaking out. Get a sneak peek at what to expect from popular retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Best Buy. Browse our guide and use it to plan your attack for the biggest shopping event of the year.; Category: lifestyle Title: Three school workers charged in death of special needs student; Abstract: The student was reportedly restrained face-down for nearly an hour before becoming unresponsive; Category: news	mind
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Achim 054006101681 1-2-3 Shade Vinyl Room Darkening Temporary Pleated Shades; Brand: Achim; Review: We have had this for a year in my 2 yr old's room. We love love love it and is perfect for a non permanant solution for an apartment. Fits perfectly behind the normal shade so when I don't kneed it dark i can still have something over the window.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rubbermaid kkk 781147333731 Easy Find Lid Square 1/2-Cup Food Storage Container, 6 Pack, Cups, Clear with Red; Brand: Rubbermaid; Review: Just as expected. Great for my husband to put relish in for his sandwiches at work.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Flexible Plastic Cutting Board Mats set, Clear Kitchen Cutting Board Set of 2 Clear Mats; Brand: Nicole Home Collection; Review: Love them but they do bow a little after the dishwasher. Does its job though.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Apple Corer, Newness Premium Apple Corer Remover, Stainless Steel Apple or Pear Core Remover Tool for Home; Brand: Newness Focus On Stainless Steel; Review: Love it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Cheese Grater & Shredder - Stainless Steel - 4 Sided Box Grater; Brand: K Basix; Review: Love it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rubbermaid FreshWorks Produce Saver Food Storage Container, Medium, 6.3 Cup, Green 1920478; Brand: Rubbermaid; Review: This is AMAZING! Buy it. My fruit lasts forever now. I want to try the bigger one for lettuce now. I wash my fruit in water/vinegar and put it in the containers and 3 weeks later my grapes are still perfect. So cheap for the quality.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: American Heart Association Healthy Slow Cooker Cookbook: 200 Low-Fuss, Good-for-You Recipes; Author: American Heart Association; Review: Thank you!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul: Stories of Feline Affection, Mystery and Charm (Chicken Soup for the Soul); Author: Mark Victor Hansen; Review: Thank you!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Texas Got It Right!; Author: Visit Amazon's Sam Wyly Page; Review: Thank you!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: [(Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul: Stories of Feline Affection, Mystery and Charm)] [Author: Jack Canfield] published on; Author: Jack Canfield; Review: Thank you!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: "Reader's Digest" Complete Guide to Sewing; Author: Reader's Digest Association; Review: Great product. Thanks!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Texas Bug Book: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly; Author: Visit Amazon's Howard Garrett Page; Review: Great product. Thanks!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Elements of Investing: Easy Lessons for Every Investor; Author: Visit Amazon's Burton G. Malkiel Page; Review: Thank you!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Favorite Crossword Puzzles-12 Pack; Author: ; Review: Thank you!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Twilight in America: The Untold Story of Islamic Terrorist Training Camps Inside America; Author: Visit Amazon's Martin Mawyer Page; Review: Perfect. Thank you!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology; Author: Visit Amazon's Leah Remini Page; Review: Perfect. Thank you!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Did You Know?: A collection of the most interesting facts, stories and triviaever! (Volume 1); Author: Cori Anne Weber; Review: Perfect. Thank you!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: The Viridian Resort; City: Patong Kathu Phuket; Review: Stayed here for 4D3N and loved the tropical theme. Booked a room on the ground floor and it was great. However we spent the first half hour of our time there killing mozzies in our room (so bring loads of mozzie repellent) Brekkie was decent but a bit cold early in the mornings (maybe because they had just started). 5-10 minutes walk to Jungceylon/Patong beach/Bangla street and a lot of seafood restaurants nearby. All in all, was a great stay, very peaceful atmosphere despite being in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Patong.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: KSL Hotel Resort; City: Johor Bahru Johor Bahru District Johor; Review: Had a very good short getaway at KSL. Booked a deluxe room w bathtub and the room was very spacious for 2. There's also a 10% discount for hotel guests at the Javanese massage place. Pool was a bit small and the dinosaur theme park was mostly catered to younger children. All in all had a good stay.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Imperial Heritage Melaka; City: Melaka Central Melaka District Melaka State; Review: Stayed here for 3D2N with a group of 10. Check in was long and arduous. 3 lifts and they all took ages. (Expect to wait about 5 mins for the lifts) We managed to get 4 rooms on the 12th floor and one on the 15th. However, everyone had a complaint to make about the hotel. One room had damp flooring, one room's light switch was falling off, another room had no toilet paper/towels. All of our rooms had very noisy air cons that kept some of us up at night. (It sounded like creaking, tapping etc- a bit creepy at 1am). Location was relatively alright, though we found it rather dangerous to cross the road to Palawan/Hatten as there were no proper traffic lights and vehicles don't stop for you so we were constantly dashing across the road. Not so safe if you are traveling with small children. We had breakfast here and although there was a good variety of Muslim food, that was about it. Would be good if they had a wider variety of western food. Pool was tiny, comparable to a slightly bigger bathtub. 2 jacuzzis but did not use them either. Tbh we've stayed at better budget hotels than this.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Kuta Station Hotel; City: Kuta Kuta District Bali; Review: Did not stay here but had dinner here. We ordered fried rice + morning glory + sweet and sour chicken + 2 alcoholic drinks during their happy hour and the total amounted close to 500,000 rupiah. Food was alright but we found it very pricey for a road side restaurant.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: KSL Hotel Resort; City: Johor Bahru Johor Bahru District Johor; Review: Stayed here for 3D2N over the long weekend and this is our 3rd time staying at KSL. To be honest, this was our most disappointing trip. • No tea bags were provided in the room • Hair towels were dirty with visible brown stains • Bathtub leaks and floods bathroom floor after a bath • Had to queue for hotel lifts (this could be caused by the peak period crowd so we'll close an eye) • Walls are not soundproof and we could hear the children next door screaming and talking loudly at 7am. • Wifi in the rooms were awful. Could not connect for one whole day. Could only connect on the day we were checking out. • Room service is slow. We rang for a bottle of water to cook instant noodles for supper and they only delivered 20-25 minutes later. Can't comment on the breakfast, nor the pool. Not sure if we'll be back after this.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Verandah; City: Ao Nang Krabi Town Krabi Province; Review: Stayed here for 4D3N and had a very peaceful and cozy stay. Came here via grab and for future grab users, please be alert and double check as the grab app marked the hotel at a completely different location. Charged us 700baht and we'd probably be better off choosing alternative transport instead. We initially booked a deluxe double but was upgraded for free to a triple deluxe! ^.^ Our room was facing the (possibly defunct) Krabi Heritage hotel so we didn't hear any loud night club music (as other reviewers have stated) and we could see the large limestone cliff and the sea. Try requesting a room towards the back of the hotel. We were allowed to use the facilities at Peace Laguna which was just down the road from our hotel. Had breakfast at the hotel and it was a basic spread of breads, bacon and cereals. The egg station was great and we ate it everyday. There are massage parlours just outside the hotel. We tried the Chiang Mai massage which was decent at 200b for an hour but woke up aching the next day. Did my eyebrows and eyelashes at Sabai Beauty salon and DONT GO HERE. My eyelids were in a state of constant pain and itchiness and the final result looked hideous and clownish. So no. I advise against it. Wasted my 1000 baht :'( There is a chicken noodle soup store in between 2 massage parlours that's worth the try if you fancy cheap and good food. The tourist information booth opposite the hotel was recommended by the hotel staff and it was great. We booked a van to Krabi night market for 200b per person 2 way. It was a 5-10 min walk to Ao Nang beach. Unfortunately, was raining half the days we were here so didn't get a chance to fully explore the beach. A lot of stalls and eateries along the beach. Special thanks to the staff at the hotel who constantly greeted us with a smile and made us thoroughly enjoy our stay here.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Ellen Foster; Author: Visit Amazon's Kaye Gibbons Page; Review: Ellen is captivating. Her stream of consciousness reveals a lot. Interesting to hear her story was sorry to be done at the end. Mrs EAB; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Skeletons at the Feast: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Chris Bohjalian Page; Review: A good read that is very compelling in the storytelling. I looked forward to reading it and it revealed a part of history from an atypical point of view.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Light Between Oceans: The heartbreaking Richard and Judy bestseller; Author: Visit Amazon's M L Stedman Page; Review: Beautifully written. Compelling story with believable characters. Set against the ocean and natural images and forces that interact with the people who live in that setting.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Runaway Quilt (Elm Creek Quilts Series #4); Author: Visit Amazon's Jennifer Chiaverini Page; Review: Did not hold my interest so I have not finished it.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Killer Angels: A Novel of the Civil War; Author: Visit Amazon's Michael Shaara Page; Review: Like being there in the Civil War....makes history come alive.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Last Full Measure: A Novel of the Civil War (Civil War Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Jeff Shaara Page; Review: Gives a sense of being there at the important battles and what soldiers endured.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics; Author: Visit Amazon's Daniel James Brown Page; Review: A really good story....especially because it is true. Gave me an appreciation of rowing. This would be a good movie I think; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: When the East Wind Blows: A World War II Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Barbara H. Martin Page; Review: Not well written....many errors. Story is OK but not very well resolved so ending is not satisfying. Does give a picture of the plight of refugees.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Maude; Author: Visit Amazon's Donna Foley Mabry Page; Review: The story was engaging and the history interesting. But the ending was sad and unsatisfying. Maude was brave and enduring and I think the author did not do justice to her by how she ended the book; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lalechka; Author: Visit Amazon's Amira Keidar Page; Review: A moving story told without sentiimentality. Engrossing and conveys a personal history that reflects the tragedies of the Holocaust. Sad!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Circling the Sun: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Paula McLain Page; Review: A good read. Gives a real sense of Kenya and the wildness and fascination it held for Beryl. A woman far ahead of her time.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Of Windmills and War; Author: Diane H Moody; Review: Good read. Gives a sense of real war conditions; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dawn; Author: Visit Amazon's Elie Wiesel Page; Review: Hard to put down beautifully written.. so very sad. Conveys an inner struggle with great sensitivity and Honesty. Now I cannot help but finish the trilogy; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Sugar Men; Author: Visit Amazon's Ray Kingfisher Page; Review: Compelling story of life in a concentration camp. Amazing tale of survival and courage under unimaginable conditions. The lifelong impact feels understandable and so pervasive. Susannah somehow prevails and creates a full.life beyond the war; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: One Perfect Lie; Author: Visit Amazon's Lisa Scottoline Page; Review: Quick paced and fun to read with twists and turns that feel fresh and unexpected it made me a Scottilini fan; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Bonechiller; Author: Visit Amazon's Graham McNamee Page; Review: I just had read the excerpt and thought it sounded so good that I got it right away, put my kids to bed and couldn't put it down. I don't think I've ever heard of this author, but you can bet I'll be looking out for any other of his books. A sequel would be nice.:-); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: In the Arms of Stone Angels; Author: Visit Amazon's Jordan Dane Page; Review: Really liked book. The ending seemed a bit rushed. Still a lot of unanswered questions about what's next for everyone.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fury: Ellora's Cave; Author: Visit Amazon's Laurann Dohner Page; Review: It was really pretty good. No meaning of life or "aha" moment. Pure hot sex! Plenty of it. Hope this author has a good man for Breeze, that's my girl.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Brawn (New Species) (Volume 5) (Swedish Edition); Author: Visit Amazon's Laurann Dohner Page; Review: Seriously, just look at the cover. Really like the series, lots of hot lovin'. But seriously....look at the cover.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Blood (Morpheus Road); Author: Visit Amazon's D.J. MacHale Page; Review: I picked this up by accident, began reading it and couldn't put this series down. I will tell you the first book was actually pretty scary and right out of a few of my personal nightmares! Thanks Mr. MacHale.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Queen of Zombie Hearts (White Rabbit Chronicles); Author: Visit Amazon's Gena Showalter Page; Review: I was not sure I wanted to read this last one. I'm glad I did, it was awesome. It hit every emotional peak, now I have only 1 request..... Ms. Showalter I believe you have another slayer story to tell. Maybe 2 more. I'll let you get back to it then! Please don't end it here.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Intertwined (An Intertwined Novel); Author: Visit Amazon's Gena Showalter Page; Review: Second time reading this series. Really enjoy it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Bargaining; Author: Visit Amazon's Carly Anne West Page; Review: I can't give this a high rating because I still don't understand what happened. I seriously need the cliff notes. Maybe you'll have better luck understanding the different pov's. Or whatever was going on in this book.g; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Death Marked (Death Sworn); Author: Visit Amazon's Leah Cypess Page; Review: Really liked it!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Career of Evil (A Cormoran Strike Novel); Author: Visit Amazon's Robert Galbraith Page; Review: But I really want Cormoran and Robin to figure it out. 1 way or the other. Love their working relationship. Can't wait till next book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Winter; Author: Visit Amazon's Marissa Meyer Page; Review: Loved this!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Wizard Heir (Heir Chronicles); Author: Visit Amazon's Cinda Williams Chima Page; Review: Really like this series, second time reading it.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Charmed; Author: Visit Amazon's Michelle Krys Page; Review: I wish the whole Cruz thing would have been for Paige, but it was a good book. Paige needs a story as does Jessie.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Charmed; Author: Visit Amazon's Michelle Krys Page; Review: I wish the whole Cruz thing would have been for Paige, but it was a good book. Paige needs a story as does Jessie.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Enchanter Heir (Heir Chronicles, The) (The Heir Chronicles); Author: Visit Amazon's Cinda Williams Chima Page; Review: It was soooooo hard to get through. I loved the Heir books and I stuck it out with this one; but was hard. Now I've read the second in series and that too hard hard fought to get through. If I had to say, the second book was better; now I'm waiting on the 3rd and hoping it gets better.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Sin-Eater's Confession; Author: Visit Amazon's Ilsa J. Bick Page; Review: Kind of frustrating. Several times in the book you just want to smack the kid and have him own up.; Rating: 3.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Haier ZHVTM06PBB 6-Bottle Wine Cellar; Brand: Haier; Review: The unit appears to be well constructed but it is difficult to control temperature. Once I got the desired temperature the unit held the temperature . However, after unplug the empty cooler and then replugging the unit in after several days the unit did not automatically return to the same cooling level. I'm not familiar with electrostatic cooling systems so I have yet to determine how efficient this unit will be as far as energy consumption so that may also be a drawback; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Helen’s Asian Kitchen Mortar and Pestle, Bamboo, 3.25 x 3-Inch Mortar with 6.25-Inch Pestle; Brand: Helen's Asian Kitchen; Review: is finely grated and removing the ginger is tedious and not very effective. The brush that they supply is not much help. I will continue to use it as it more effective than my other gadgets for the same purpose,; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hamilton Beach (48464) Coffee Maker with 12 Cup Capacity & Internal Storage Coffee Pot, Brewstation, Black; Brand: Hamilton Beach; Review: Most of the negative reviews talk about the condensation that accumulates in cover of the machine. It does but I've learned to live with that since this is my second machine. It makes good coffee and it's cheap. Now if you could find me a good coffee grinder...; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hamilton Beach (48464) Coffee Maker with 12 Cup Capacity & Internal Storage Coffee Pot, Brewstation, Black; Brand: Hamilton Beach; Review: Most of the negative reviews talk about the condensation that accumulates in cover of the machine. It does but I've learned to live with that since this is my second machine. It makes good coffee and it's cheap. Now if you could find me a good coffee grinder...; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Frigidaire EA108T 18 In. Sleeve Kit for Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners; Brand: Frigidaire; Review: Not much can go wrong with a basic sheet metal box. The other through the wall unit had support brackets included so this is a 3.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: DHP Delaney Splitback Futon Compact Modern Design, Brown; Brand: DHP; Review: Nice little ottoman with some storage space. Fits my small apartment well. Light weightand may not be particularly durable but certainly functional for my life style.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: DecoBros Mesh Cabinet Basket Organizer, Silver (Large - 10 x 15.8 x 7.5); Brand: Deco Brothers; Review: Nicely built and now I can see all my "hidden spices by sliding out the trays.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Chop Magic Chopper; Brand: Chop Magic; Review: Bought this at my local super market. Took it home and was able to slice a half of a small onion using both hands anmd a fair amount of body weight. Tried dicing a tomatoe (chilled as suggested) and basically got tomatoe juice. Blades very dull. I would recommend this to someone I really disliked. This is my first one star review. Too bad 0 isn't an option.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: iRobot Roomba 650 Automatic Robotic Vacuum (Certified Refurbished); Brand: iRobot; Review: I have a mix of hard wood, carpet and tile and the Roomba handles it just fine. It seems to do a reasonable job on all surfaces. And I have 2 dogs and 2 cats. The cleaning pattwern does seem a bit eratic but over time it does hit all areas.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ovente Bagless Canister Cyclonic Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Comes with Telescopic Wand, Combination Bristle Brush/Crevice Nozzle and Retractable Cord,; Brand: Ovente; Review: Received this as a gift on 4/21 so I've only had it 3 weeks. The combination of light weight and great suction make it a 4 star review. After using this for a few months I may upgrade this to a 5 star.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: ThermoServ 083A03006A1 Rings Double Wall Insulated Plastic Mug, 24-Ounce, White Parallels, 6-Pack; Brand: ThermoServ; Review: Greatest glasses ever! Love the handle and the fact that they don't sweat. Bought these as a gift, then decided to buy a set for myself. Best decision ever!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Danya B. XF11035 Large Rustic Decorative 5-Tier Corner Floating Wall Mount Display Shelving Unit - Walnut; Brand: Danya B; Review: Very cute shelf for my bathroom.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Superior Premium Cotton Flannel Sheets, All Season 100% Brushed Cotton Flannel Bedding, 4-Piece Sheet Set with Deep Fitting Pockets; Brand: Superior; Review: Gift for my daughter. She loves them!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: ChefLand 8-Piece Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoon Set; Brand: ChefLand; Review: Just what I needed!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hanging Toiletry Bag for Women ODESSA. Ideal for Storing Cosmetics, Makeup and Jewelry in an Organized Way. Large; Brand: ODESSA Home; Review: Just what I needed for short trips.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Utopia Bedding Decorative Pillow Inserts (Pack of 2, White); Brand: Utopia Bedding; Review: Just what I was looking for and a a great price! Thanks!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Liquitex Professional Glass Beads Effects Medium, 8-oz; Brand: Liquitex; Review: Does what it is suppose to...; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Liquitex Professional Resin Sand Effects Medium, 8-oz (6608); Brand: Liquitex; Review: Does what it is suppose to...; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: NEO CN Gravity Feed Dual Action Airbrush; Brand: NEO Products; Review: Really ups my painting game..; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Master Airbrush High Performance Airbrush Air Compressor with Filter, Black Air Hose & Dual-brush Holder; Brand: Master Airbrush; Review: Works well and is quiet..; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Portable Sewing Machine, Mini Cordless Handheld Electric Sewing Machine, Quick Handy Stitch Tool for Fabric,; Brand: Royalsell; Review: Keeps our wine filters clean between bottling.. ..; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Clover Gold Eye Tapestry, No. 18-22; Brand: Clover; Review: Its a needle.. HEEH it works..; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: General Pencil 105-BP The Masters Brush Cleaner & Preserver 2.5 Ounces Carded-; Brand: General Pencil; Review: A must for painting brushes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Platinum Soft Core Colored Pencils with Tin Case, Pack of 72; Brand: Platinum Art Supplies; Review: Not just colored pencils.. but GREAT color pencils.. pigments are bright.. I love this set..; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Arts_Crafts_and_Sewing
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Holiday Inn Asheville Biltmore West; City: Asheville North Carolina; Review: When we visited the Biltmore Estate, we stayed at The Holiday Inn Biltmore West. This hotel was in a great location near the highway. It was nearby Ashville, the Biltmore estate and a number of restaurants. The room was fairly large, clean, and comfortable. There was also a large indoor / outdoor pool. I would recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Asheville. NC.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Super 8 by Wyndham Danbury; City: Danbury Connecticut; Review: I attended a Tai Chi seminar this past weekend. The promoter had arranged a deal with a different hotel for $75 a night. When my wife called for reservations Hotel.com (who was handling the arrangements) they told my wife there were no more rooms but they could put me 1/2 mile away for the same rate. They also said the hotel had a 90% rating so my wife agreed. The hotel looks nothing like the picture. The room was dark and the shower head was too low. I can deal with that but the bed was a nightmare. I kept waking up all night long with back pains because the bed was so uncomfortable. 3 nights was too much on this horrible mattress. My biggest beef is with Hotel.com. My wife later confirmed with the other hotel that they did indeed have rooms available. To add insult to injury , my wife found rooms at the Super 8 for $64 a night on Priceline. Super 8 is a 2 star hotel at best. If you don't mind a 2 star hotel and have a strong back , then you may not have any issues. But do not use Hotel.com. They were deceptive and not forthcoming. I will never use them again and I will tell as many people as I can about my experience.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Savannah Historic District; City: Savannah Georgia; Review: For a three star hotel, this is a great value for all the service and amenities. The lobby was beautifully decorated for the holidays, everything was extremely clean and the staff was amazing. The rooms were large, bright, clean and the beds were comfortable. The showers were great which is a must. People talk about southern hospitality but the staff here lives it. Every person in the hotel greeted us warmly which made us feel great. They were so amazing and accommodating. This was our first trip to Savannah and the concierge was very helpful. She answered all our questions and made some great suggestions. We would recommend this hotel in a heartbeat.( BTW, this hotel didn't have an indoor pool but it did have a rooftop pool on the second floor.); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Fayetteville I 95 South; City: Fayetteville North Carolina; Review: On the drive from NJ to Savannah, GA and we had gotten a late start. We had been driving all day and needed a place to stay. I went on line and found this hotel for a reasonable price and booked it. We crashed for the night and left the following morning. The staff was extremely courteous and friendly. The hotel was attractive, the rooms were very clean and the beds were comfortable. The following morning the shower was great which is one of the most important features in a room. (I don't drink coffee and I need a good shower to wake me up.) We didn't get a chance to use any of the amenities so I cant comment more but it was perfect for what we needed. If you have decided to be a road warrior on your next vacation, I would certainly recommend this hotel for a stop over. It is close to 95 and you can continue on your way with little time lost. Plus if you are driving from the northeast and your destination is Charlestown or Savannah, then you will have about 6 or 7 hours left to your destination,; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Country Inn Suites by Radisson Williamsburg East Busch Gardens VA; City: Williamsburg Virginia; Review: This is a very nice hotel that caters to family travelers. The price was reasonable, the rooms were large and the hotel is in a great location. It was close to both historic Williamsburg and also near Busch Gardens. They have free buffet breakfast which is a plus for people traveling with children. The staff was very pleasant and we enjoyed our stay there. I would recommend this hotel.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: London Elizabeth Hotel; City: London England; Review: We enjoyed our 4 day stay at the London Elizabeth. The hotel is in a beautiful and very old building. The hotel staff was top notch and very helpful every time we had questions. The lobby area and connecting restaurant are quaint and lovely. The location is perfect - across the street from Kensington Gardens and the Lancaster Gate station of The Tube. Being an old hotel, we understood that the lift would not be what we are used to and we were ok with it but beware, It is very, very small and very slow. The 3 of us got in and nobody could wear a backpack or the door would not close. The stairs to the top floor are a long way up but our daughter elected to take the stairs after the first trip. She lived in a NYC 5th floor walkup. We were just off of an 11 day cruise so we had a lot of luggage. It took multiple trips to get it all to our room. We were in room 449 (5th floor to what people from the U.S are used to). Our room was huge by European standards. The room had 3 single beds, 2 were pulled together. This worked well for us. Our adult daughter had a real bed instead of a cot. The room and hallways were very clean and the bath had ample towels, soaps, etc. The one bed blocked a door that we figured went to an adjoining room. One of the nights we were there the people in the next room who must have just arrived kept trying to open the door, probably thinking it was closet but it startled everyone awake. The room had a ceiling fan but the AC either didn't work or was not intended to work. Two nights it was very warm and we were uncomfortable even with the fan. The windows did open so as the air cooled over night the room became more comfortable. With the windows open there is a lot of street noise. We are used to NYC noise so the noise was not a problem for us but could be for some. The room had no closet but had an ample sized armoire. We had some problems opening the old safe in the armoire but the staff was quick to respond to our call for help. We used the small fridge to keep a few beers and ciders cold. The floors sloped quite a bit due to the age of the hotel. This provided some laughs because we just got off of an 11 night cruise. The carpet in the room was fairly warn and had some irregularities. It should probably be replaced soon. The old bathtub was huge and very deep. For baths this was great, for showers real care needed to be taken getting in and out. We were very frustrated with the toilet. Siphoning British toilets take some getting used to but the one in this bathroom seemed much more temperamental than others we've used. It did work; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Disney s Grand Floridian Resort Spa; City: Orlando Florida; Review: Stayed in the Grand Floridian Villas with a large family group for 6 nights. The staff was terrific and the rooms were excellent. The best we've experienced at Disney. An added treat was the view from our villa's balcony. We got to see the Magic Kingdom fireworks every evening we were home early.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Tivoli Hotel; City: Copenhagen Zealand; Review: We stayed here with a group as part of a tour. Our reservation had our party of 3 people in a "family room" for one night and 2 smaller but connecting rooms for the other 3 nights. The views from both rooms were great, looking over the river. Our "family room" was way too small for 3 adults and I would never do that again. We had to move sideways if we were anywhere but near the bathroom when the sofa was converted to a bed. We were very glad we only had the family room for one night. For 2 people the room would have been fine and each of the smaller connecting rooms was fine for 2 people. The beds were very comfortable but the pullout sofa was so-so. We didn't mind the walk to downtown but one way (towards the railroad) took you past a huge amount of construction. There as a lot of construction going on in the hotel while we were there. It was a minor annoyance to us but the first floor was fairly noisy. The hotel is simply but tastefully decorated except for the elevators which could give someone a migraine. The hotel has a stylized clown/mime theme which I believe comes from an association with the nearby Tivoli Gardens. The pool was fantastic and was not crowded when we went. The sauna was excellent too but users of the pool and sauna need to be very careful on the very slippery tile floor in the entire pool area. A breakfast buffet was included for our group and it was excellent as was the one catered meal we had as a group. Clowns frequented breakfast which the kids and some adults enjoyed. One evening we got take out from Sushi and Sticks, the restaurant on the top floor. It was excellent.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Budd Lake Rockaway Area; City: Budd Lake Morris County New Jersey; Review: We were driving along route 80 in NJ and didn't have a reservation for the night and found The Holiday Inn at Budd Lake. It was a little off the highway but our GPS got us there. The check in clerk was very nice. Our room was clean and the beds comfortable, just what we needed for a night. When we left in the AM the complimentary coffee in the lobby was empty but other wise it was a good stay.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Staybridge Suites San Diego Sorrento Mesa; City: San Diego California; Review: The hotel was convenient to my business location and easy to get in and out of. There was a plaza of restaurants across the street called the Food Court. The plaza also had a good wine store and grocery. The rooms were large and very clean. The staff was helpful and friendly. The complementary breakfast was adequate. The coffee was great. There is a complementary light dinner on some week nights. It too was adequate. There was also complementary wine and beer. The only downside, which was probably not the hotel's fault was the 2:30 am fire alarm; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Red Lion Inn; City: Stockbridge Massachusetts; Review: Spent a wonderful weekend in this beautiful Inn. Our room was spacious and beautifully appointed with period wallpaper and furniture. The gas fireplace was a welcome add on the cold evenings after returning from the local galleries. The Red Lion has a nice dining room and a casual tavern as well as a bar with live music. We will definitely be back.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Victoria; City: Basel; Review: Excellent stay at the Hotel Victoria. We were in the hotel for 2 nights before a Rhone River cruise and spent very little time at the hotel, but we enjoyed our stay and would recommend the hotel, The rate was very good, and the accommodations were spacious and very comfortable. The hotel is located directly across the street from the train station. We were able to just walk across the road to our hotel which saved us time and money. Rooms were nicely appointed. The only minor complaint we had was that the bathtub/shower floor was quite a bit higher than the room floor. My husband almost fell getting out of the shower. Once we know this we were fine. The staff was terrific. When we checked in we were given 2 passes for the local transportation system which we were unfortunately not able to use and a discount for the onsite restaurant which we did use. The staff ordered us a cab to our cruise ship and provided the cab company with specific instructions on where we were to be dropped off. I would definitely stay here again should our travels take us back to Basel.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Premier Inn Doncaster Central High Fishergate Hotel; City: Doncaster South Yorkshire England; Review: We stayed in the hotel Friday - Monday, we asked for a room at the back due to the alleged road noise! They gave us a room at the side near the back (overlooking the carpark and market area). Room was excellent, spotless and all ok until next door neighbour had an almighty row for 3 hours!! in the middle of this an alarm went off... thgt it was a car alarm and may run the battery down... but no, it was a business alarm and went solid for over 1 hour!! so no sleep on Friday night. However the staff were excellent and moved us without any problem... the new room was great.... silence for the next two nights!!! Excellent VFM... only £29 per room per night!! Hotel food was ok, nothing fancy.. Go to Zest for good food!!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mount Errigal Hotel; City: Letterkenny County Donegal; Review: I stayed with my partner over the Easter weekend. When we arrived we were put in a double room downstairs, however there was a problem with a radiator being on full blast and reception moved us up to 3rd floor to a much larger twin/double room. The hotel is lovely, with excellent Leisure facilities/gym and a beauty salon offering the best Swedish Massage ever! Breakfast was included in our package and it was great. We also ate each evening in the Bar/Restaurant, they have a 15 euro 2 course meal available with a glass of wine - the food was excellent along with the service, although the wine was not!! but you cant have everything. We had a problem with children in the next room at 11.30 pm on one of the nights, a quick call to reception had the matter resolved immediately. This is a lovely hotel, clean and excellent value for money - decor is a bit dated, but is fine. And it is a 3* hotel with free Wi-Fi! We will definately return!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Westville Hotel; City: Enniskillen County Fermanagh Northern Ireland; Review: We got a Sunday Saver of £65 for a Double Executive Room including breakfast for two on the hotel's website. The hotel is lovely, very clean and modern and tasteful. The Reception staff were very helpful and polite. The Bar staff and restaurant staff were just as nice. The room very spacious, very clean and comfortable. The only problem with Room 209 was that there were two 'Fans' maybe for ventilation on the flat roof which was the view out the window. Reception assured us on arrival that they went off at 10 pm and only ran from 10 am. This was not the case, the fans ran all night... hard to sleep with a constant drone, bit like the noise of the extractor fan in the bathroom, but at least we were able to turn that one off!! The bed was comfy and the pillows were too hard for me, but my partner was happy with them. Breakfast was excellent. The hotel is within walking distance to Castle Coole and the town centre, make sure you walk into town and go for dinner/lunch to Cafe Merlot (side door of William Blakes pub) -you wont be disappointed. Would go back to hotel, but would not take one of the four Executive rooms as they all overlook the fans!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Curran Court Hotel; City: Larne County Antrim Northern Ireland; Review: This is the 3rd year we have been here on Christmas Day and it didnt disappoint. My family all had a gorgeous meal with excellent service. The food was served hot and everyone enjoyed their meals from starters to tea & coffee and mince pies. Highly recommend it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Curran Court Hotel; City: Larne County Antrim Northern Ireland; Review: We booked for a meal to celebrate Mother's Day and all of the party had a fantastic meal. Food and service was excellent even though the Dining room was packed the service was second to non. Always impressed here, they never fail.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Jurys Inn Dublin Parnell Street; City: Dublin County Dublin; Review: Handy hotel for shopping and shows, very close to train station for those travelling on the Enterprise. Clean hotel with spacious rooms. No noise from next room. Great price for overnight stay. We had to leave before breakfast so reception staff organised a breakfast bag to be provided for us. Handy on the train home. Would stay again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Merchant Hotel; City: Belfast Northern Ireland; Review: Monday night stay in a Victorian room with my mate. What a treat, from the minute we walked through the doors. Reception staff were extremely helpful as well as the doorman. The rooms were tastefully decorated and the bed was the most comfortable I've ever slept in, as were the pillows. Turn down service was provided and chocolate left on the bed. Breakfast was a la carte and the flavours were amazing, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Sitting in the Great Room was awesome. Would definitely love to go back, better start saving.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Relaxia Olivina; City: Puerto Del Carmen Lanzarote Canary Islands; Review: Spent a week all inclusive at this hotel 19-26 November. Excellent hotel with great staff, particularly Miguel on reception. Our room was spotless and had everything we needed, including a safe and a hairdryer. Room was cleaned every day so always had clean towels. Great selection of unlimited food at every meal. Drinks and snacks also readily available. The pool area was spotless and always sunbeds available. Entertainment on every evening a bit tacky but was always a laugh, aided by the alcoholic beverages. The hotel is close to the shops, beach etc we would definitely go back.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Halfway House Hotel; City: Ballygally County Antrim Northern Ireland; Review: Called in today with my cousin. Friendly welcome, great service and excellent food. Only downside is the vegetables. I had chicken curry rice and chips so no problems there, my cousin had half roast chicken, bacon and chips. The deserts are to die for. Great prices and views.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Curran Court Hotel; City: Larne County Antrim Northern Ireland; Review: Was there Sunday afternoon and although the Christmas lunch menu doesn't start till 1 December; they allowed us to order from it today. The broth was delicious, 3 of us had the turkey and ham dinner which was enormous and gorgeous. 1 had the sirloin steak cooked to perfection to "medium" as requested. The Xmas pudding & brandy cream and the lemon meringue pie were to die for. Great value for money and excellent customer service as always. Kieron and the staff were helpful and friendly.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mantra 2 Bond Street; City: Sydney New South Wales; Review: Just had a two night stay in the Mantra Hotel. I had a 2 bedroom studio apartment. It was gorgeous. Very spacious and lovely decor. I checked in late the first night but the guy on reception was very helpful, nothing was a problem. Breakfast in the hotel was a buffet, it had an excellent range of the usual suspects and was beautifully cooked. This is the third time I have stayed here. It is close to the local sites, The Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Opera House and Darling Harbour. Well worth a visit.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Key Largo Holiday Apartments; City: Maroochydore Sunshine Coast Queensland; Review: Apartments are well located across the road from the beach. A 2 minute walk to Maroochydore Surf Club and 15 minutes walk from the Sunshine Plaza shops & cinema complex. My one bedroom apartment was excellent, one first floor with a large wrap around balcony. Overlooking the sea. Great facilities kitchen, shower room and washing machine and tumble dryer. Excellent value for money, close to convenience store and restaurants/pubs. Cas is a great Manager and runs the place very well. She's very helpful and informative. Highly recommend staying here short or long term.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: California Palace; City: Salou Costa Dorada Province of Tarragona Catalonia; Review: Hotel room was sufficient although was overlooking the street not the pool view as requested. The pillows are very hard and flat. The bed was very hard also. Room very clean. Cleaner in every day. Towels changed daily if required. I was full board which meant it was easy to get bored with food which was very orientated towards non British clients. Bar and restaurant staff were helpful albeit with limited English. I fell on Saturday morning at the bottom step on the marble stairs and broke my foot. Reception staff and other guests witnessed this and no one came to help or provide assistance. I booked an early flight home that night and gave up 8 nights full board. Reception refused to refund the additional weeks payment they received for the safe or the room. The low review is due to this.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Anchorage Inn; City: Portstewart County Londonderry Northern Ireland; Review: Spent Saturday night here for my 50th birthday. Spent the afternoon in the bar watching the football and the rugby, it was great craic. Had our dinner in the restaurant with great service and attention. The food was lovely and excellent prices and value for money. Our room was great with ensuite. Free WiFi. No car park however I managed to park next door outside the post office. The restaurant is cleared and opened up for a band "The Bizz" who were excellent and entry was free as we were guests in the hotel. Music here and in nightclub on until 1.30am. But as we stayed till the end it didn't bother us. The heating is set pretty high in the room so the window was open all night to the roar of the boiler...but after a few drinks it didn't matter. We would definitely recommend here and return.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Number One; City: Gdansk Pomerania Province Northern Poland; Review: My mate and I stayed from 7 -10 March. The welcome at reception left a lot to be desired from "Milan" the man in the powder blue suit. However all other staff were excellent, the cleaners were particularly friendly. We were very impressed by the standard of cleaning. The room was adequate size with 2 single beds. Which were very comfortable with great pillows. Great bathroom with shower. Free WiFi. TV in room however had English channels but had a polish voice talking over the English so not viewable. Breakfast was good. Great variety at buffet. We had dinner in the hotel once. The pizzas are excellent great flavours and cheap. The bottles of red lambrusco were also good lol. Pool, sauna and steam room area very clean. However please note the locker room with changing facilities are unisex and some wander around naked. The infrared sauna was particularly good. The spa is small at side of the pool and better if used 2 at a time. The wellness spa offers different treatments. My friend had a facial which was nothing spectacular for 200 zloty. I had a intense massage by a which was magnificent for 300 zloty. I would highly recommend this new hotel for value for money, location and cleanliness and I would return.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Lifetime 28240 Adjustable Folding Laptop Table TV Tray, 30 Inch, Almond; Brand: Lifetime; Review: This folding table perfectly meets my need for an occasional light duty tool stand. Comes in handy while doing oil changes or household handyman jobs. Rolling tool trays or carts are more stable and have a higher load rating, but take up storage space while not in use. Also, works as extra desk space while organizing my taxes or working on large projects. The folding mechanism has a small plastic part - I question it's durability. Otherwise this would have been a five star. Still seems like a great buy.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Brother HL-2270DW Compact Laser Printer with Wireless Networking and Duplex; Brand: Brother; Review: Follow up: As stated in my main review, I bought this printer to quick print checks and envelopes. Because of the noisy fan, I initially left the printer powered down when not in use. Sometimes, after warm-up, the manual feed simply won't work. You have to cycle on-and-off several times before it will recognize paper in the manual feeder. I've since discovered that the fan shuts off if the printer is not in use, so I now leave the printer powered up, which solves the feeder issue. Deducted 1 star from original review. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ My multi-function inkjet printer lacks a manual paper feed, so I wanted a compact printer for quick jobs like envelopes and checks. I looked at the Dell B1160W or Samsung ML-2165W (both made by Samsung) before buying the 2270DW. Initial observations: Pros: Crisp laser text in single or double sided printing mode. Close to 25ppm speed in single side mode - significantly less in double sided. Easy to unpack and mechanically set up. Solid build quality. Cons: The fan is fairly noisy compared to other laser printers. Samsung/Dell have a smaller footprint. The fuser runs very hot, so small stock like envelopes are seriously curled. As noted in other reviews, you have to place the printer within 3 feet of your router for initial AOSS set-up - this is not a router issue. After initial set-up, it works anywhere within the normal WLAN range, so it's a short-term inconvenience. Nit-Picks: I wish someone made a printer that would support 2-3/4" as the smallest paper size. I like printing checks without a carrier card. Side mounted power switch means this can't sit right next to another device.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Dahle 507 Personal Rolling Trimmer, 12.5" Cut Length, 7 Sheet Capacity, Self-Sharpening, Automatic Clamp, German Engineered Paper Cutter; Brand: Dahle; Review: Update: I upgraded my rating from 3 to 4 stars. At work, we have a Carl trimmer which is positioned at the same price point - the Dahle is far superior. A truly heavy duty trimmer - in this size - would run $250 to $3,000. A replacement cutting head - the wheel is not replaceable - is almost half the cost of the whole trimmer, which keeps this from being a five-star light duty trimmer. Original review: I'll start by saying that this trimmer works just fine for my purposes: cutting a few drawings to size once or twice a week. I don't need high precision, cutting capacity or durability. Which is a good thing. As noted, the end caps are plastic and the cutting rail is made of very thin tubing. There is enough flex in the entire assembly to preclude precision cutting and I don't know how long this trimmer will last. Max cutting capacity is six pieces of 24lb paper - anything more and the cut will wander. As another reviewer has noted, for precision trimming, you need to visually align the paper - the alignment points are not accurate or square.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Epson Expression Premium XP-620 Wireless Color Photo Printer with Scanner and Copier; Brand: Epson; Review: I had to live out of hotels for 6 weeks for business purposes and needed a basic inkjet printer. I'm a loyal Epson customer - I've owned five Epson printers - but this printer is really terrible. Everything is flimsy. The never-used, upper paper tray (mostly for photo paper) is always getting pushed in too far - ineffective positive lock. The main paper tray's capacity is too small - about 60 pages of 24 lb. paper. The thing takes FOREVER to boot from power down and makes a ridiculous amount of noise when it transitions to sleep mode. The output tray is located over the paper trays - it is constantly being pushed in-and-out to load paper. Why would Seiko engineers put the output tray here? Any non-standard sized paper will jam - this thing destroys light paper and jams with heavy bond. Picture quality is acceptable, but I just feel that Epson tried to squeeze too much into a small format printer. The HP that this replaced was leaps and bounds superior in daily functionality and half the price. I needed a basic, but flexible, small format inkjet printer with copy capability. My workhorse printer is in storage and I'm on my third month with the XP-620. Given all the rave reviews, I thought this was a slam-dunk, but I'm really disappointed in this printer.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Scotch Filament Tape 897 Clear, 48 mm x 55 m (Pack of 1); Brand: Scotch; Review: Why not 5 stars? According to Scotch: "For CLOSING boxes, stabilizing pallets, bundling and reinforcing, securing appliance components during transport." Sorry, but Scotch Moving and Storage Packaging Tape should be used for CLOSING boxes - the adhesive works better for long-term storage in varying temperature. Filament tape is used for strapping and needs to pass all the way around the box and adhere to itself. See my attached picture of two boxes in long-term storage. When used for closing, the tape inevitably peels back. Nonetheless, this is an excellent strapping tape - thick and abrasion resistant. The big-box stores currently only carry small rolls of thinner filament tape at a high cost per foot. Very much recommended for its intended purpose.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Canon CanoScan LiDE220 Photo and Document Scanner; Brand: Canon; Review: I have an Epson WF-7520 wide-format all-in-one which is my scanning workhorse for my home business. I bought the Canon LiDE220 scanner as a transportable back-up for basic scanning on the road. At a compact 14.5 x 10 x 1.5, it fits in a standard 15.6 laptop carrier for safe transport in the trunk of my car or packed in a suitcase. USB cable for power and data means easy set-up on a hotel room desk. Solid build quality. Carriage locks for transport. Portability = 9/10. 4,800 x 4,800 dpi maximum optical resolution and 19,200 x 19,200 dpi interpolated. Resolution (for my purposes) = 10/10. 10 seconds to scan a single letter, but 8 seconds for the carriage to re-home. So figure 3 pages per minute scanning, if you stay on top of it. Speed = 8/10. Im using the included IJ Scanning Utility coupled with WonderShare PDF Editor running under Windows 7 for most of my work. This set-up efficiently covers most office scanning needs. The only issue I have is the stitch function, which is designed to combine two letter-sized scans into a ledger-sized image. I routinely need to scan legal (8.5 x 14) documents and the stitch function is cumbersome for this purpose producing far less than accurate scans. Heres where a pass through document scanner like the Epson DA-30 really shines. Functionality = 8/10. Check the reviews if you plan to use with Windows 10. For my needs which I admit are unusual this scanner has worked out pretty well, especially for the price. If the stitch function accommodated top-to-bottom scanning, Id have given the LiDE220 scanner 5 stars.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Office_Products
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Comfort Suites Fort Pierce; City: Fort Pierce Florida; Review: I stayed here for a few nights with a group on a business trip. My first room on the 3rd floor had a strong chemical odor, so the next morning I asked for a new room. Even though the hotel was nearly full the nice manager happily gave me a new room on the ground floor which was much more to my liking with just a fresh clean scent. The Suites are well appointed and spacious with comfortable beds, fridge and microwave, and a nice couch área. The free breakfast is great and has some of the best coffee found in these sorts of places. The Steak and Shake and Red Lobster are within easy walking distance. I'd be happy to stay here again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: La Quinta Inn Suites Oxford Anniston; City: Oxford Alabama; Review: I stayed here with a large group on business for several nights. The rooms are large and clean, the breakfast is great, and everyone is happy to help. Los Mexicanos is a good Mexican restaurant right behind the hotel. It is possible to walk to the Target across the freeway but the lack of sidewalks anywhere makes walking difficult. I'd be happy to stay here again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ermitage Hotel; City: Montevideo Montevideo Department; Review: I stayed here for several nights on a business trip. It was chosen for me by my hosts and I was not dissapointed! The room was a bit dated but comfortable with a nice view of the bay. I slept great here! The free breakfast was tasty with European style coffee and food - cheeses and cold cuts and the like. If you had told me we were in Spain I would have believed you! I found an amazing pizza place around the corner where I ate on 2 different evenings, and a taxi to the centro of Montevideo takes about 15 to 20 minutes. I'd be happy to stay here again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hilton Chicago O Hare Airport; City: Chicago Illinois; Review: I have stayed here a number of times, and it's worth it for the convience of just walking to OHare for an early morning flight- all other "airport" hotels at OHare will have at least a 10 to 15 minute drive in a shuttle van. The lobby is nice and feels like an elegant airport hotel, but the check-in line can be very long. The rooms are nice but small. The hotel restaurants are rather pricey so I usually get something delivered to the room, especially a good Chicago pizza. The pool in the basement is very small. It's also a short walk to the CTA OHare stop, just one more reason to stay here.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Black Hawk Motel Suites; City: Wisconsin Dells Wisconsin; Review: We stayed at the Blackhawk last summer for a few nights. My kids are 9 and 10 and the Blackhawk is a good family option in the Dells, but I'm not quite sure why it gets the #1 rating. The beds are ok and could certainly use new pillows, but the big draw is the free tickets to Noah's Ark which are included in the price of the room. Both the indoor and outdoor pools tend to be very crowded at all hours. The dining options in the neighborhood are limited. The Café across the Street is average but overpriced. At night downtown is a bit far to walk and other food options are a short drive away. Having said that we will probably stay again this summer to take advantage of the waterpark tickets. The manager is great and is always happy to help with advice.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: La Quinta Inn Costa Mesa Orange County; City: Costa Mesa California; Review: I stayed here for a few nights as part of a large group. We had read the negative reviews here and were quite concerned prior to arrival. My room was ok, it smelled like old motel, which brought back memories of family trips when I was a kid. The bathroom in my room was pretty gross with mildew and long hairs on the floor that never got cleaned during my stay. But let me tell you, among my colleagues in my group were there stories to tell! Several had to ask for a new room upon check in because they could not take the stench in the assigned room, which varied from old smoking room to moldy to just disgusting old room smell. Several people told of wierd stains on the carpets - blood? paint? something else? The pool was so dirty that you would never let your kids even near it, and even after someone started to clean the wáter after a few days it still had many leaves and wood chips floating in it. A couple of colleagues witnessed drug deals in the parking lot - beware walking around there after dark. One colleague had a loud knock on his door at 5 am. Rather than a burglar it turned out to be a drunk returning to wrong room, but it fits the style of this place. The walkways are so dirty, stcky, and gross that you would never want to walk without shoes. And room 117 apparantly had a murder in it recently and was taped off during our stay. If I had a choice it would be much better to scrape together a few more dollars and stay somewhere else. Not recommended!; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Hotel Suites Parsippany Fairfield; City: Parsippany Morris County New Jersey; Review: I stayed here as part of large group, and actually stayed several times for a few nights each over a few weeks. The rooms were by and large better than expected, although some do have a strange odor. Probably the best feature of the hotel is the bus that stops right in front and whisks you into Times Square in about 40 minutes for $12 - could not be more convenient! Across the street is a big strip mall with many shops and restaurants, although walking there in winter is quite a challenge as there are no sidewalks and you end up dodging cars and snow and slush and everything else. The bathrooms are nice but a bit small.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Gateway Hotel Conference Center; City: Ames Iowa; Review: I stayed here for one night as part of a large group travelling through Ames. My room was fantastic! It was spacious, modern, elegant, and importantly, quiet. I would have loved to stay here in the summer to take advantage of the nearby walking trails. I'm surprised by some of the other reviews. Perhaps my room had been recently overhauled? I loved it and would be happy to stay here again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Barnard; City: Quito Pichincha Province; Review: This was the hotel provided for me by hosts on a recent business trip to Quito. I had been hoping for a nicer place, so I was a little disappointed upon first checking in and seeing my room, but the truth is that I had a very pleasant stay here. The rooms are basic with tile floors and a small bathroom, which could certainly use an update. However, the bed was comfortable and I slept well each night. I had to get up around 6am each day - good thing, because at just about 6 the noise from the kitchen one floor below kicked in and would have woke me up anyway. My room had plenty of hot wáter, many cable channels on the flat screen TV, and the in-room fridge was handy and was stocked with sodas, beers, and chocolates. My room also had a nice little private patio with a small tree. The free WiFi was fast and always on. The restaurant is just so-so, and I wouldn't really recommend it unless the meals are included in your plan as they were for me. The staff were all friendly and helpful, including tourism recommendations and arranging for taxis. There are many things within walking distance, including the large Casa de Cultura and various restaurants, but be careful at night as the área feels a bit lonely after dark. My hosts paid my bill, so prices didn't affect me, but the prices I saw online seemed high. This should be a $70 or $80 a night hotel.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Leon; City: Leon Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: I stayed here for 2 weeks for work in August. I don't understand the negative reviews here - my room was perfectly clean and was very relaxing. The beds are super comfortable and I slept better here than I often do. The bathroom was clean and modern, no problems with the room at all. I ate most of my meals in the hotel restaurant which is very good, with many tasty options on the buffet and attentive service. During my 2nd week here I got a little sick, and the hotel kindly arranged for a house call by a local doctor who visited me in my room and even brought me medicine. The leather market down the block is great and not to be missed. They have low low prices on all leather products and endless selection. I'm very happy with my new jacket! The leather area is located in front of the bus station, and as a result I would exercise caution walking around there especially at night. Make your Oxxo run before dark if you can. Other than that this hotel is highly recommended. The cultural center back behind the hotel with a museum, library, theather, and various other buildings is a nice green area in the middle of the city and perfect for a walk or to find a shady bench for relaxing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fairfield Inn Suites by Marriott Milwaukee Airport; City: Oak Creek Wisconsin; Review: We stayed here the night before an early flight in order to be close to the airport. The place is nice with big clean romos and a nice small indoor pool. The 4 am shuttle got us there just in time for a 5:30 am flight. My only complaint is that the staff can be a bit snooty.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Araiza Palmira; City: La Paz Baja California; Review: I have read here that this hotel is in the process of updating its guest rooms. In that case make sure you ask for an updated room. My room looked like something out of the 1970s with mattresses and pillows to match. The shower head was unique, and not in a good way. Having said that, the property itself is very nice with a large outdoor pool that has stunning views of the mountains. I ate several meals in the restaurant, and despite the slow service the food is very good.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Emporio Zacatecas; City: Zacatecas Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: The Emporio is right across the street from the Zacatecas Cathedral and coukd not be better located. The rooms are modern and comfortable. Mine looked out to the central courtyard, and had very little noise from the street or otherwise. My only complaint is that the service is slow in the restaurant, but the excellent food is worth the wait.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Best Western Huntington Mall Inn; City: Barboursville West Virginia; Review: Located just off the freeway, this Best Western is perfect for a quick night's stay, and is what one would expect for the price. The fridge and microwave are a nice touch, and the rooms, while being nothing special, provide you with a good rest.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Clarion Inn Suites Chambersburg; City: Chambersburg Pennsylvania; Review: Despite some of the reviews here, my room at the Clarion was very nice and seemed to be recently updated. The breakfast room was well stocked and it was handy to have the Ruby Tuesday next door. When I stayed there was a large group of Chinese tourists who were a bit loud at times. But I would definitely stay here again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Columbus Dwtn Capitol Square; City: Columbus Ohio; Review: Based on the location right in downtown and the look of the hotel from the outside, I had high hopes here. However the rooms are in desperate need of updating with old worn out carpets and furniture. Many nice attractions and restaurants are within walking distance.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Comfort Inn University Center; City: Fairfax Virginia; Review: From the outside this hotel looks nice enough, but it is rather dated and the rooms desperately need to be remodeled. Several people in my group complained about rooms that hadn't been well cleaned. The hallways and corridors are quite long and it can be quite a hike from the lobby to your room.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Express Suites Newport News; City: Newport News Virginia; Review: This Holiday Inn is very nice with large spacious rooms and a well kept lobby area. I took a walk in the area, and I agree that the neighborhood is a bit sketchy, but there are several restaurants and stores within a short walking distance. I would definitely stay here again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Casa Tota; City: Todos Santos Baja California; Review: The Casa Tota is a small "botique" hotel in sleepy Todos Santos, seemingly a million miles away from the tourist choked Los Cabos, 40 minutes away. The rooms are sleek and modern but comfortable with a large airy shower. From the reviews here I was worried about noise, and yes you can hear just about everything that happens in the courtyard. I just turned on the fan in the air conditioner unit and slept like a baby. Great food in the lobby restaurant, and they were happy to make coffee for me at 7 am and let me take it to my room.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Quality Inn Suites Winter Park Village Area; City: Orlando Florida; Review: This place is just ok in a rather run down part of Orlando. The rooms are large but are a bit dated. My room smelled a bit musty but not bad enough to go all the way back to the front desk to complain. The breakfast room is large and well stocked. For other meals there is a Denny's walking about 5 minutes under the highway.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Express Suites Blacksburg University Area; City: Blacksburg Virginia; Review: We stayed here for a quick overnight while visiting Virginia Tech. The rooms are fine if a bit dated, and the breakfast is well done. The staff are friendly and very helpful. We would stay here again!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Quality Inn; City: Bloomsburg Pennsylvania; Review: This Econolodge begs to be updated. The furniture and beds are old and not very comfortable. My experience wasn't as bad as some of the other reviewers here, but don't expect too much. The breakfast room is nice with very friendly workers.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Comfort Suites Outlet Center; City: Asheville North Carolina; Review: This is a nice place on the outskirts of Asheville. If you're looking to explore the downtown area you might want to stay a bit closer to the center of town. The breakfast room was nice. Walking in this area can be a challenge as there are few sidewalks.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: SureStay Collection by Best Western Lehigh Valley Hotel; City: Bethlehem Pennsylvania; Review: The lobby is nice enough at this Best Western, and I do like the restaurant which has very tasty burgers. Unfortunately the rooms are in desperate need of new furniture and carpeting, and in winter the wind howls right into your room on cold nights.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Solmar Resort; City: Cabo San Lucas Los Cabos Baja California; Review: I had a nice stay here. My room was a jr suite with 2 large full bathrooms and a complete kitchen. Very spacious and relaxing. You could say that the rooms could use an update but they are still nice. I had an all inclusive package, which was good because the menu prices are rather high for the quality. The Solmar is well located, as the marina and shopping is a 15 min walk away or so, or just 5 mins by transport.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hilton Oakland Airport; City: Oakland California; Review: This Hilton is oddly divided into various short buildings on a large property. The rooms are just OK, not really up to Hilton standards. Due to the layout it can be quite a long walk from the lobby to your room.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lake Natoma Inn; City: Folsom California; Review: This Lake Natoma Inn is well located near the shopping and restaurants of the old town of Folsom, and also in walking distance to the train line to take you into Sacramento. The rooms are a bit dated but comfortable and quiet. As others have mentioned the internet service could be improved.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Best Western Heritage Inn Chico; City: Chico California; Review: This property has large rooms with fridge and microwave. I slept well here and had plenty of space, although the furniture could use an update. The breakfast is very basic. There is a nice shopping center and movie theater nearby.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Comfort Inn Suites N at Pyramids; City: Indianapolis Indiana; Review: I stayed here for a quick night while on the road. The rooms are basic and relatively comfortable, but nothing special. The free breakfast was also just ok, not a bad place for the price. The bathrooms are clean.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Quality Inn Suites at Binghamton University; City: Vestal New York; Review: This property is just average. The rooms are looking dated and could certainly be updated. The beds are a bit hard and the rooms smell a bit musty. I did enjoy the breakfast room, which was well stocked and served by a nice friendly lady.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: SpringHill Suites Minneapolis Eden Prairie; City: Eden Prairie Minnesota; Review: Compared to other similarly priced hotels we have stayed in near MOA, the Springhill is less crowded and offers more. The free breakfast is a step up and the rooms are large - not quite a suite, but spacious with a nice kitchen. Having Cub Foods across the street is handy - buy your Nickelodeon wristbands there to save.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fairfield Inn Suites Bakersfield Central; City: Bakersfield California; Review: After a long day driving on the California Interstate this was a nice place to relax and sleep the night. The room was quite large and very comfortable. I slept very well here. There are several restaurants within walking distance.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leominster; City: Leominster Massachusetts; Review: I enjoyed my stay here, which was just a quick one night stop on a business trip. The rooms are large and comfortable and very relaxing. There are several restaurants and stores within walking distance.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Red Lion Hotel Eureka; City: Eureka Humboldt County California; Review: I stayed here with a group for a quick overnight stay during a business trip. The people are nice here, but the rooms are in desperate need of a makeover. Most of the furniture is at least 20-30 years old.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Baymont by Wyndham Champaign; City: Champaign Champaign Urbana Illinois; Review: The Baymont is right off the freeway and is well located near the UI campus, with numerous restaurants and shopping nearby. The romos are basic but well maintained and comfortable. The free breakfast is very basic.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fiesta Inn Aguascalientes; City: Aguascalientes Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: The Fiesta Inn chain is a reliably comfortable option for business trips. This outlet features clean and comfortable rooms and a tasty restaurant, well located for various options in Aguas. My only complaints were that the hot water is very slow to arrive in the shower, at least a 5 min wait, and tbey forgot to call my early morning taxi.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: City Express Junior Puebla FINSA; City: Puebla Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: This is probably the best 600 peso hotel room I have stayed in. The rooms are modern and clean, if rather small, and I slept really well. The free breakfast was better than most chains with gourmet coffee and fresh chilaquiles. The parking lot is large and is constantly patrolled by security. I wouldn't walk around the area much, as it looks a bit dicey. I'll definitely stay again when in Puebla!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Castillo Santa Cecilia Hotel; City: Guanajuato Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: I first stayed here 20 years ago, and the Castillo was a bit run down back then. I stayed here last week for work and after reading other recent reviews here I have to agree. The concept is amazing, and the view from my suite's window was amazing. But most of the furniture predates my first visit and a lot of work needs to be done here. My shower head was broken with water shooting out in all directions except at me. The king size mattress was lumpy and odd, and I should have brought my own pillows. I did try the breakfast buffet twice which is ok and would be overpriced if I had payed for it myself. Terrible coffee - go to Cafe Tal instead.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Araiza Palmira; City: La Paz Baja California; Review: My stay here this time was much better than in the past. The rooms have been updated, which were a bit run down before. The beds are comfortable and I appreciate the Seattle channels on the tv. The restaurant is great, make sure to try the shrimp tacos or the tampiqueña. The grounds are well maintained and walking along the waterfront is very relaxing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: SpringHill Suites Chicago O Hare; City: Rosemont Illinois; Review: Based on several searches over the past few years, this SHS gives the best value for any of the OHare hotels that offer a shuttle, free breakfast, free parking, and indoor pool. The rooms are a bit smaller than other SHS I know, and coyld certainly use a makeover. The breakfast could be better, too. Avoid the eggs. But the proximity to the CTA stop is nice, and the 24 hour shuttles are great. And the view of the planes from our 7th story room was a nice touch.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Leon; City: Leon Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: I recently stayed here again with a group for one night as we were performing in the Teatro Bicentenario. As always the rooms are clean and comfortable, just what one needs to relax a little. The buffet restaurant in the lobby is another plus. I hope to be back soon!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: El Cid Castilla Beach Hotel; City: Mazatlan Pacific Coast; Review: I stayed here one night on a quick work trip. My third floor room overlooked the pool area, which is beautiful and would be perfect for families with small children. The room was large and nice but a bit dated. The resort was built in the mid 60s and is showing its age. I did sleep well and enjoyed exploring the various gift shops and the grounds in general. It can take a few minutes for hot water to get to your shower.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: City Express Junior Villahermosa; City: Villahermosa Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: We stayed here as part of a vacation package Gran Plan from Aeromexico, choosing this hotel for the price. The rooms are a bit small, but well designed with cozy beds and cold A/C. The free breakfast is just right, and the pool is very modern and nice. The shuttle service is a nice extra plus.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Camino Real Saltillo; City: Saltillo Northern Mexico; Review: I stayed here for 3 nights on a trip for work. The property is full of pleasant green spaces not often found in urban Mexican hotels. I slept very well here as the rooms are quiet and relaxing. I ate several meals in the onsite Huerta restaurant which were excellent. Unfortunately many other reviews are correct about service and general upkeep. A few doors down from me a room service tray with dirty dishes sat on the ground outside a room for 3 days untouched! No one bothered to pick it up. Also, upon checkout I had an early 3 am pickup for my flight. I tried to take a shower but I guess they don't do hot water at 2:30 am.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Palacio San Leonardo; City: Puebla Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: Puebla's San Leonardo is an older hotel located just a couple of blocks from the main plaza. The lobby is stunningly beautiful, and the rooms are clean and functional, if a bit small. The a/c works well. I had a delicious arrachera-nopal-cheese dish for lunch in the hotel's restaurant that was fantastic. I took away one star because the elevator broke while we were there, which meant an 8 story climb for me. I would stay here again!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Wyndham Garden Silao Bajio Airport; City: Silao Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: I stayed here for a few nights on a business trip. The rooms are nice with large king beds, a modern bathroom, and plenty of outlets for device charging. The free breakfast is better than average with rotating choices daily. I especially enjoyed the chilaquiles. If you don't have a car your dining choices are limited to Subway, a buffet restaurant, and the Oxxo. I took away one star because the rooms are very small and you will hear noise from the hall and nearby rooms. The views towards the airport are nice.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hilton Garden Inn Tuxtla Gutierrez; City: Tuxtla Gutierrez Southern Mexico; Review: I stayed here with a group on a quick business trip. The lobby is nice and the staff friendly. The rooms are well sized, but are starting to show their age and could use an overhaul. The mall and a number of restaurants are within walking distance, and the centro is 10-15 mins away in a taxi. The airport is not close, around 40 mins by car.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Crowne Plaza Monterrey; City: Monterrey Northern Mexico; Review: I enjoyed my stay, save for a few problems. I appreciated the 24 hour restaurant as I arrived late. The rooms are large and comfortable, but are in desperate need of remodeling. The furniture and paint must be 30-40 years old. The heater did not work in my room, luckily I brought warm pjs. The 24 business center is nice, too.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Los Cocos; City: Chetumal Yucatan Peninsula; Review: The Cocos is well situated a block from the Mayan Museum and a 15 minute walk to the beach. I ate several meals in the lobby restaurant all of which were great. For room service they just add a small surcharge and the service is fast. The rooms are in desperate need of updating, especially the furniture. At least the water is hot and the air conditioning is cold. The internet can be a bit spotty, and beware that the walls are paper thin - you can hear everything from next door.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Fiesta Inn Cancun Las Americas; City: Cancun Yucatan Peninsula; Review: This Fiesta Inn is relatively new and is more modern than other ones I have stayed in. However the cleaning staff needs to do a better job. I found hair on the floor in my room and crumbs on the chairs. Other than that my stay was fine, and I particularly enjoyed the restaurant.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn Minneapolis St Paul Woodbury; City: Woodbury Minnesota; Review: The best thing about this Hampton Inn is the staff, who are friendly and helpful to a fault. The lobby breakfast is very good, and coffee and tea are available 24 hours which we took full advantage of! We slept well in the cozy beds, and always felt safe here. There are plenty of restaurants and shops within a 10 minute drive. The pool and hot tub are nice, sometimes a bit crowded. In general the common areas could be a bit cleaner, especially the elevator.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Courtyard by Marriott Leon at The Poliforum; City: Leon Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: I stayed here for one night on a business trip, and the Courtyard met all of my expectations. The rooms are large and well designed, have no smell of cleaning chemicals, and have beautiful views looking towards downtown. The hot water comes quickly in the bathroom, and the toilets feature odor trapping modern electronic seats. The underground parking garage is free for guests.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Gamma Morelia Belo; City: Morelia Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: The Gamma is located in a busy and modern part of Morelia. The modern vibe is nice, and the rooms are clean and comfortable, if maybe a bit small, especially the bathrooms. The beds are nice and comfortable.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Posada Viena Hotel; City: Mexico City Central Mexico and Gulf Coast; Review: At first I was not happy. My room had a slight odor of old smoke, and the bathroom desperately needs an update. But I liked the colonial design and tile work, and I slept really well. Also the breakfast was great.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn Suites Mexico City Centro Historico; City: Mexico City Central Mexico and Gulf Co; Review: This Hampton has what must be one of the prettiest interiors of any Hampton Inn, as it located in a refurbished older building with a beautiful interior courtyard. The stained glass and traditional tilework are stunning. My room was very small, but perfect for one person. The walls are thick so you hear nothing from other guests. I read the negative breakfast reviews here, but I thought it was good. All the items were hot every day, and it was tastier than the Hampton breakfasts I have had stateside. The wifi is fast. Buy your snacks at the shop around the corner as the markup is over 100%. The hot water takes a few minutes but water pressure is good. The valet parking service is somewhat slow but in general the staff are all friendly and helpful.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hyatt Place La Paz; City: La Paz Baja California; Review: This newer Hyatt property is located a bit out of town in the sleepy Costa Baja area across from a golf course. The rooms are large and clean, and the lobby restaurant is good. I took away one star for just a few complaints. First the walls are thin, and be careful if your room has a connecting door. The screaming baby in the next room sounded like he was in mine! Hot water takes a few minutes to arrive, especially in the sink. And buy your pharmacy or Oxxo things when in the town, because there are no shops near the hotel.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fairfield Inn Suites Minneapolis St Paul Airport; City: Mendota Heights Minnesota; Review: This is the most run down Marriott property I have seen and I'm surprised they keep their certification. The hallways and rooms are in desperate need of modernizing. The area has no restaurants, so bring your food. And as someone pointed out, no lotion is provided. We left a bag a food in the room which the chamber maid mistook as garbage. So be careful what you leave behind. As a result we checked out a day early and for $10 more we found a much better room at a different hotel in Eagan, a Hilton brand. I would not stay here again.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn Minneapolis Roseville; City: Roseville Minnesota; Review: We stayed here for a quick overnight while visiting relatives in the area. This is one of the nicest Hampton Inn locations I have seen. The building is nearly new, and has a large and spacious lobby and breakfast area. The rooms are modern and quiet with large bathrooms. The elevators are a tad slow, but that would be the only thing I could find wrong here. Highly recommended!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Home2 Suites by Hilton Eagan Minneapolis; City: Eagan Minnesota; Review: This new hotel is located in a quiet spot near the outlet mall. The rooms are huge, much larger than most hotel rooms. Having a full kitchen was really handy. The beds are comfortable as well. They have a pool but no hot tub.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn Appleton Fox River Mall Area; City: Appleton Wisconsin; Review: This is one of the older Hampton Inns I have visited. The staff are all nice, and the lobby is nice, especially the table games. The rooms have been renovated, but are on the small side, especially for 4 people with luggage. The bathroom is very small with limited counter space. The pool and whirlpool are nice and relaxing.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Half Broke Horses: A True-Life Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Jeannette Walls Page; Review: I truly enjoyed Half Broke Horses. A good read. A specific time in the lives of my family's history. I recommend it.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The MacKade Brothers Bundle: The Return of Rafe MacKade, The Pride of Jared MacKade, The Heart of Devin; Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Roberts Page; Review: A great read. Very enjoyable. the inter actions of the brothers and the women who loved them. Can't wait for the next MacKade adventure.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Jade's Cowboy Crush: Witness Protection - Rancher Style (Sweet Montana Bride Series) (Volume 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Kimberly Krey Page; Review: Fun reading; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Glassblower (The Glassblower Trilogy); Author: Visit Amazon's Petra Durst-Benning Page; Review: Enjoyable reading. Looking forward to the next one in the series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Blindsided - A Thriller; Author: Visit Amazon's Jay Giles Page; Review: A god evening read. Enjoyable.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Blood Defense (Samantha Brinkman); Author: Visit Amazon's Marcia Clark Page; Review: Just did not enjoy the book. Probably Lyne suspect the TV movie.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Worthy; Author: Visit Amazon's Catherine Ryan Hyde Page; Review: Very enjoyable reading; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: In from the Cold (The MacGregors); Author: Visit Amazon's Nora Roberts Page; Review: Verg good. Great read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Butterfly Garden (The Collector); Author: Visit Amazon's Dot Hutchison Page; Review: Yes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Professor (McMurtrie and Drake Legal Thrillers); Author: Visit Amazon's Robert Bailey Page; Review: A really good read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Cross to Bear; Author: Visit Amazon's Gregg Allman Page; Review: Not very interesting; Rating: 3.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with news articles as follows: Title: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter, 3, 'Died in My Arms' After Entering Hospice Care; Abstract: Miguel Cervantes' Wife Reveals Daughter 'Died in My Arms' After Hospice Care; Category: tv Title: I Was An NBA Wife. Here's How It Affected My Mental Health.; Abstract: I felt like I was a fraud, and being an NBA wife didn't help that. In fact, it nearly destroyed me.; Category: health Title: Senate to try to override Trump emergency declaration veto Thursday; Abstract: The Senate on Thursday will attempt to override President Trump's veto of a resolution nixing his emergency declaration on the border wall. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) set up a veto override vote for Thursday at 1:45 p.m., as he wrapped up the Senate's work on Wednesday and set the schedule for Thursday. The vote will come less than two days after Trump vetoed the resolution, which passed the House and Senate last month. ...; Category: news Title: Fort Worth shooting: Officers weren't asked to do welfare check. Here's how it changed things; Abstract: When Atatiana Jefferson's neighbor called police, he says he expected them to go check and see if she was OK.; Category: news Title: Former NFL lineman Justin Bannan arrested for attempted murder; Abstract: Former NFL defensive lineman Justin Bannan is sitting in a Colorado jail, on charges of suspicion of attempted first-degree murder.; Category: sports Title: Body of missing Alabama girl found; 2 being charged; Abstract: Investigators searching through garbage found the body of a 3-year-old girl who was missing more than a week, and authorities are charging two people with murder, police said Tuesday.; Category: news Title: Officer in viral-video shoplifting incident to be fired: Police chief; Abstract: The police chief of Phoenix said the Disciplinary Review Board's recommendation of a six-week unpaid suspension was not "sufficient" for Officer Chris Meyer.; Category: news Title: Trump says he was kidding about a border wall in Colorado, Twitter fires back; Abstract: President Trump tweeted early Thursday that his announcement to build a wall in Colorado was a joke.; Category: news Title: Meghan Markle's Leather Pencil Skirt is a Powerful Statement Piece; Abstract: Meghan Markle stepped out for an important guest panel appearance in a maroon long-sleeved top with an eye-catching red leather pencil skirt.; Category: lifestyle Title: Trump goes on Twitter tear after White House official condemns his Ukraine call; Abstract: President Donald Trump launched a sustained online offensive after details emerged of damaging congressional testimony by a senior White House official.; Category: news Title: Biden on being denied communion: 'I'm a practicing Catholic, I practice my faith'; Abstract: Former Vice President and 2020 presidential candidate Joe Biden refused to confirm reports that he was denied communion at a South Carolina church on Sunday because of his stance on abortion, referring to the incident as his "personal life."; Category: news Title: Milwaukee mayor blames President's rhetoric in alleged acid attack; Abstract: Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett issued a forceful rebuke of President Donald Trump's rhetoric Monday, three days after an alleged acid attack that has gained national attention. "This anger towards people from other countries is being fed by our president and his followers," Barrett said.; Category: news Title: Roger Stone's food poisoning forces him to leave jury selection in his trial; Abstract: Another man had to be stretchered out of the proceedings after appearing to suffer a seizure.; Category: news Title: Maryland man, 46, gets probation after he killed a father and his four daughters when his SUV crossed a median and slammed into their minivan; Abstract: Alvin Hubbard III, 46, of Cambridge, Maryland, was sentenced to one year of probation after he killed a father and his four daughters when his SUV slammed into a family's minivan in 2018; Category: news Title: Florida county board rejects library's New York Times subscription as 'fake news'; Abstract: Florida county board rejects library's New York Times subscription as 'fake news'; Category: news Title: Nearly 500 Prisoners Freed on a Single Day; Abstract: Julie Faircloth walked out of an Oklahoma prison near the head of a line of nearly 70 women who were freed on Monday, as part of one of the largest single-day releases of prisoners in the nation's history.; Category: news Title: Report: Stephen A. Smith strikes massive new deal with ESPN; Abstract: ; Category: sports Title: Dean Foods files for bankruptcy; Abstract: Dean Foods, America's largest milk producer, is filing for bankruptcy.; Category: finance	mind
Given the interaction history of a user with movies/shows as follows: Title: High Fidelity (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: American Beauty (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Perfect Storm (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Fried Green Tomatoes (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Midnight Cowboy (1969); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sleepless in Seattle (1993); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: What Women Want (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: On Golden Pond (1981); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Wayne's World (1992); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Silence of the Lambs (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Commitments (1991); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cocoon (1985); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Ice Storm (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Whale Rider (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Forever Young (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Beaches (1988); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Wizard of Oz: Collector's Edition (1939); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bruce Almighty (2003); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Shrek 2 (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Finding Nemo (Widescreen) (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Full Monty (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: An Officer and a Gentleman (1982); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Steel Magnolias (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mask: Director's Cut (1985); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Best in Show (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pretty Woman (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Edward Scissorhands (1990); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: A Bug's Life (1998); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Black Hawk Down (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Monster's Ball (2001); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Red Violin (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fatal Attraction (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Little Man Tate (1991); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Eyes Wide Shut (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Ice Age (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Good Will Hunting (1997); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Snow Dogs (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Caddyshack (1980); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pearl Harbor (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: There's Something About Mary: Special Edition (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Monsters (2001); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Forrest Gump (1994); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A League of Their Own (1992); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Three Men and a Baby (1987); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lost in Translation (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Secret of Roan Inish (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mr. Holland's Opus (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Boys Don't Cry (1999); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Schindler's List (1993); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Kramer vs. Kramer (1979); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Terms of Endearment (1983); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Billy Elliot (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Fish Called Wanda (1988); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Life Is Beautiful (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Patriot (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hannibal (2001); Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Beetlejuice (1988); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Dead Man Walking (1995); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Notting Hill (1999); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: sex (1989); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Con Air (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Hours (2002); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Wedding Singer (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Chocolat (2000); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Face/Off (1997); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Saving Private Ryan (1998); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ghostbusters (1984); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Shallow Hal (2001); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sling Blade (1996); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Horse Whisperer (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Straight Story (1999); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bread and Tulips (2000); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Windtalkers (2002); Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Finding Neverland (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: I (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Blood Simple (1984); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Top Gun (1986); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Stepmom (1998); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hidalgo (2004); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Being Julia (2004); Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: American Splendor (2003); Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: In America (2002); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Big Fish (2003); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Motorcycle Diaries (2004); Rating: 4.0/5.0	netflix
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Forum Novelties Rhinestone Encrusted 70th Happy Birthday Tiara with Keepsake Box; Brand: Forum Novelties; Review: Also purchased as a gift which have not been given yet. I love it!! Never seen anything like it. I am sure the receiver will enjoy it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Juicy Trendz Ladies Women's printed Onesie Hoodie Jumpsuit Playsuit All In One Piece H Aztec; Brand: Juicy Trendz; Review: Very comfortable in deed, Beautiful in color and looks like a jumpsuit a lot of compliments; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Frenchic Women's Fishnet Lace Stockings Tights Sexy Pantyhose Extended Sizes (Pack of 6); Brand: Frenchic; Review: bought as a gift; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Jessica Simpson Women's Camba Dress Pump; Brand: ; Review: fits a little tight, but at the same time flip flop when you walk; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Marc Fisher Women's Sydney Dress Pump; Brand: Marc Fisher; Review: great shoes; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: ElegantPark Women Ivory High Heel Pumps Peep Toe Lace Bridal Wedding Shoes; Brand: ; Review: bought for someone else,, but no complaints; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Nine West Women's Emilyna Leather Dress Pump; Brand: ; Review: really good fit.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Love Lakeside Modern, Chiffon Silk Blend Solid Color Oblong Scarf; Brand: Love Lakeside; Review: All I can say is that I love it plan to buy more colors; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ted and Jack - Solid Color Silk Blend Lightweight Accent Scarf; Brand: Ted and Jack; Review: Bought this for a friend. she had no complaint; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Aitbags Purses and Handbags for Women Tote with Shoulder Strap Big Crossbody Bag; Brand: Aitbags; Review: very nice small bag. Color is deep; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: FASH Limited Cross-body Handbag, Dual Handle, One Size; Brand: FASH Limited; Review: Didn't realize that it was such a huge purse, but it's very nice!! You can put everything in it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Blue by Betsey Johnson Women's SB-LIVIE Dress Sandal; Brand: Blue by Betsey Johnson; Review: The shoe is very beauty and fit perfectly. Very comfortable wear; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: GRACE KARIN Boatneck Sleeveless Vintage Tea Dress Belt; Brand: ; Review: was ordered for someone else but they loved it; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Coshare Kid's Fashion Girl Patent Mary Jane Pumps Free Stickers; Brand: Coshare; Review: Adorable; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: New Balance Unisex Nanotex Wicking Cotton Crew 4-Pack Sock; Brand: New Balance; Review: The New Balance Unisex Wicking Nanotex Cotton Crew Sock is made with vigorous athletic performance in mind. It is designed to wick moisture away from your foot, an important attribute (especially in running intensive activities), and in that regard it performs impeccably. The sock is very comfortable to wear and goes a long way toward keeping your feet dry. The price is also quite reasonable. Unfortunately, the sock is also very thin. It is comfortable to wear when doing unstrenuous activities, but has next to no cushion for the very activities it is designed for. It feels insubstantial on the feet when running for any distance (the application I bought them for) and provides negligible cushioning during high-impact activities. These socks are fine for casual wear, but I can't recommend them for strenuous activities, particularly running.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Drymax Trail Run 1/4 Crew High Socks; Brand: Drymax; Review: These Drymax trail running socks are absolutely great. They are sized correctly (I fit the XL perfectly with a 12 shoe size) and are well padded and snug, but don't feel constricting. The padding around the ankle is especially nice, and they do seem to remove moisture from the foot effectively; after wearing them my feet are always dry and comfortable, though I rarely run in extremely wet conditions (I have run in light drizzle with them inside shoes with mesh uppers and still felt dry.) These socks do feel a bit thick (and are) but are extremely comfortable, though I find them to be a tad warm when the ambient temperature is high but they are otherwise so comfortable that I don't mind. For trail running these socks are hard to beat, and they are just as good at a quick jog around the neighborhood or a 5K. I highly recommend these socks.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Brooks Men's Infiniti Notch II Short; Brand: ; Review: I generally love Brooks products (particularly trail shoes) and the Brooks Men's Infiniti Notch II Short is no exception. I appreciate the small easy access pockets for holding running gels, but my favorite feature has to be the internal compression short that inhibits chafing, while the outer shell stays cool and provides good comfort with minimal bunching up. My only critique of the fit of the shorts is that the rear of the waistband seems to fit a bit low compared to other shorts I have worn, which I think must be related to the actual shape of the inner compression short (though I'm not positive: it could just be the exterior cut of the overall short.) The net result is that at the outset of a long run the rear of the shorts tends to be lower on me than the front of the shorts, which feels like a case of "plumber's posterior" is developing (though it's nowhere near that pronounced.) On balance these are very well made and nicely designed shorts and I have been running in them regularly. I like these shorts, and think runners (particularly distance runners) will find them comfortable, durable, and utilitarian.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Asics Men's Core Pocketed Short; Brand: ASICS; Review: I have always found ASICS clothing and shoes to be comfortable and well made, and these shorts are no exception. They are exceedingly comfortable for running or general activities (I wear mine around the house and for walking a lot, too.) They are not restrictive in any way and do not bind in any position, unlike some athletic shorts. They wick moisture away from the skin well, and are perfectly acceptable to wear out of the house to run casual errands. For the price I think these shorts are an excellent value, and unless you need a very specialized athletic short of some sort, these will be more than adequate for all general purpose needs.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Speedo Men's Summit Square Leg Swimsuit; Brand: Speedo; Review: The Speedo Men's Summit Square Leg swimsuit is an excellent choice for comfort in or out of the pool. Many people have noted that they are sized a bit small in the waist and I agree with that sentiment. I should traditionally be a large, but went with the XL and the waist is perfect, while the remainder of the suit is also very comfortable and is not loose thanks to the 4-way stretch material. I like the cut as it is not particularly revealing yet is tight enough not to slow you down in the pool. I gave these trunks four stars instead of five for two reasons: first they run a bit small in my experience, and secondly, the contour of the front waistband is so low that it makes it difficult to keep the drawstring completely tucked in. On balance I really like this swimsuit, and have no issues recommending it to any guy who wants a minimalist feel without wearing a ridiculously skimpy suit.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: New Balance Men's Go 2 Tights; Brand: New Balance; Review: Living in Minnesota, I get more than my share of opportunities to run in cool and cold weather. The New Balance "Go 2 Tight" is a comfortable wicking tight that is good for cool weather, but once the temperature gets below freezing, is a bit thin for my tastes. I like the feel of the fabric: it is soft and pliable and doesn't chafe. You can wear this with or without underwear (I have tried both) and I never had a problem in either configuration (the cooler it gets the more you'll want something under it of course.) I typically run between three and five miles a day and these performed well and became a favorite of mine. I like the high visibility accent for safety, and particularly like the appropriate rise of the waistline which falls at my actual waistline. The size seemed reasonable: I generally fall between a large and extra-large, so I typically opt for an extra-large, which I did here. I am 6'2" and 200 pounds, and the extra-large fits nicely and is none too constricting. If you are interested in a good and well-fitting running outer garment, I recommend this.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Travelsox The Best Dress and Travel Crew Compression Socks TSC; Brand: Travelsox; Review: I intermittently suffer from plantar fasciitis in my right foot, and as an airline pilot clearly travel a lot. I was looking for a black crew sock that that had some compression for my plantar fasciitis and decided to try these. Overall these are very good socks. Being compression socks they obviously tend toward being snug and indeed they are (when in doubt order up a size.) I wear a size 12 shoe and the XL fits well. They are comfortable on long flights (though I'm glad to get them off at the end of the day,) but most important to me the "plantar fasciitis support zone" really does help keep my arch comfortable even during plantar fasciitis episodes. They are wicking and antibacterial, and in my experience stay dry all day under reasonable circumstances. I am pleased with my Travelsox and plan to buy more.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Swim Goggle; Brand: Speedo; Review: I had been swimming in somewhat lower-end goggles as I am not a great swimmer and certainly didn't (and don't) need anything remotely high performance. The reason I moved up to the Vanquishers is simple: the interchangeable nose pieces helped me get a better fit that ensured no leaks around the outside corners of my eyes, which had been a traditional irritant for me. I still take lessons to improve my swimming (I started swimming as an adult) and my swim school recommended these for me. We test fitted them with the larger nose piece and the fit around the eye is perfect, and the silicone seals are fairly comfortable. I honestly didn't care about the mirrored coating, but it does seem to reduce glare somewhat if that's an important feature for you. For me the only thing that mattered was the no-leak fit with decent visibility and adequate comfort. Since I have no complaints in any of those regards I gave these goggles five stars.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Swim Goggle; Brand: Speedo; Review: I had been swimming in somewhat lower-end goggles as I am not a great swimmer and certainly didn't (and don't) need anything remotely high performance. The reason I moved up to the Vanquishers is simple: the interchangeable nose pieces helped me get a better fit that ensured no leaks around the outside corners of my eyes, which had been a traditional irritant for me. I still take lessons to improve my swimming (I started swimming as an adult) and my swim school recommended these for me. We test fitted them with the larger nose piece and the fit around the eye is perfect, and the silicone seals are fairly comfortable. I honestly didn't care about the mirrored coating, but it does seem to reduce glare somewhat if that's an important feature for you. For me the only thing that mattered was the no-leak fit with decent visibility and adequate comfort. Since I have no complaints in any of those regards I gave these goggles five stars.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Swim Goggle; Brand: Speedo; Review: I had been swimming in somewhat lower-end goggles as I am not a great swimmer and certainly didn't (and don't) need anything remotely high performance. The reason I moved up to the Vanquishers is simple: the interchangeable nose pieces helped me get a better fit that ensured no leaks around the outside corners of my eyes, which had been a traditional irritant for me. I still take lessons to improve my swimming (I started swimming as an adult) and my swim school recommended these for me. We test fitted them with the larger nose piece and the fit around the eye is perfect, and the silicone seals are fairly comfortable. I honestly didn't care about the mirrored coating, but it does seem to reduce glare somewhat if that's an important feature for you. For me the only thing that mattered was the no-leak fit with decent visibility and adequate comfort. Since I have no complaints in any of those regards I gave these goggles five stars.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Swim Goggle; Brand: Speedo; Review: I had been swimming in somewhat lower-end goggles as I am not a great swimmer and certainly didn't (and don't) need anything remotely high performance. The reason I moved up to the Vanquishers is simple: the interchangeable nose pieces helped me get a better fit that ensured no leaks around the outside corners of my eyes, which had been a traditional irritant for me. I still take lessons to improve my swimming (I started swimming as an adult) and my swim school recommended these for me. We test fitted them with the larger nose piece and the fit around the eye is perfect, and the silicone seals are fairly comfortable. I honestly didn't care about the mirrored coating, but it does seem to reduce glare somewhat if that's an important feature for you. For me the only thing that mattered was the no-leak fit with decent visibility and adequate comfort. Since I have no complaints in any of those regards I gave these goggles five stars.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sub Sports Mens Compression Leggings Tights Running Layer Sweat Wicking Fabric; Brand: Sub Sports; Review: These compression leggings are a very good value for the price. They are a genuine midweight tight and provide modest compression, though not up to the standard of CW-X for example. I very much like that they are available in a huge variety of colors as black gets boring after a while, but can also tell you to be careful as the red that I bought is somewhat transparent, especially if they get wet (like from sweating....) I'm suspecting the other lighter colors are similar, so unless you are extremely self-confident you may wish to take note. I primarily run in these (I use them under shorts or insulated running pants depending on the outside temperature) and find that the amount of compression they provide is nice without being overbearing or restrictive, and they definitely have a nice texture next to the skin. I did penalize them a point for a relatively minor fit issue: I found the waistband to fit exceptionally high on me and as a result these tend to work down after a bit of running requiring occasional adjustments during the run. This will obviously be different depending on individual height and inseam dimensions primarily, but I don't have that issue with other brands to any major degree. For the price these are a bargain, and while not perfect, if you can find a pair that fit you well I expect the value proposition will win you over.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: CW-X Mens Insulator Performx Tights; Brand: CW-X; Review: I am a dedicated runner who lives in the upper Midwest, and good insulated compression tights are an essential for fall and winter running. I have tried several brands and styles, but these CW-X Insulator Performx Tights are at the top of the drawer for a reason: it's because I keep coming back to them. They provide a comfortable degree of compression and excellent insulation for those colder days that just make you want to stay indoors. For me the biggest selling point is the support web around the kneecap. I have been plagued with a problem in one of my knees for years, and the construction and stitching of these tights really does support my knees better than competing products. The packaging comes with directions for putting these on, and I will say that the key is bringing both legs up to knee level to align the kneecap in the middle of the support web and then pulling them the rest of the way up. There is a drawstring, but the waistband and the elasticity of the fabric makes it redundant in my experience. These are simply outstanding running tights that are ideal for colder climates and runners with knee or IT band issues. They are pricey, but this is definitely a case of "you get what you pay for."; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Nathan Quick Shot Plus Handheld Hydration Pack; Brand: Nathan; Review: I like to run with water but don't love the bulk of bigger bottles. The Nathan Quick Shot Plus is a nice concept that holds just the right amount of water for me to run 30-60 minutes with. The main attraction is the ergonomic design with ambidextrous thumbholes to help you retain your grip on the bottle, but running a very close second is the convenient zippered pocket that has just enough room for a key, energy gels, a credit card, some cash, etc., which makes this bottle my go-to hydration fix for outdoor running. There are, however, a couple of drawbacks which is why I docked it one star: first the shape itself is a bit odd with the bottle being somewhat wide for its volume, making holding it a bit awkward (like I said, the thumbholes are a great feature,) and the cap is notoriously leaky. The cap needs to be seated exactly correctly to ensure it doesn't leak, but even when you think you've got it situated perfectly, it will sometimes surprise you with an unexpected drenching. Overall I like this running bottle and think it's well made (excepting the cap) and for intermediate distance running I recommend it, just make sure you test the cap before you start your run.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Speedo Men's Horizontal Prism 4-Way Splice Square Leg Swimsuit; Brand: Speedo; Review: I am a fan of Speedo products: their swimwear is well designed and made. These "Horizontal Prism Splice" trunks are no exception. They are 90% polyester and 10% spandex, yielding a comfortable and modest profile that stays put and doesn't balloon underwater. I like the square leg cut, and am, in fact, using these trunks to replace an old pair of Speedo square leg trunks that are my favorite pair ever, but which over countless hours in the chlorine have seen better days. These are possibly the lightest weight trunks I have owned, and it's a good thing there is a secure front liner. They are very comfortable, but I am still getting used to them. My old Speedos were extra-large (I have a 34/36" waist depending on the manufacturer) and they fit very comfortably; with these I tried on the large and they were just a tad bit snug, so I ordered the extra-large. I find them to be a bit large (it's good they have a drawstring,) and certainly they feel looser than my old Speedos of the same size and equivalent cut. This is one case where if you're on the fence about a size, I'd go to the next smaller size. Despite the sizing issue, these are good trunks and I recommend them.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sox Performance Sport Plantar Fasciitis Crew Arch Compression Socks, Pairs - SS3011; Brand: Sox; Review: I suffer from intermittent plantar fasciitis, and for those of you who know what that's like, you also understand doing anything reasonable to fix the problem. The Sox MultiSport Plantar Fasciitis Crew Compression Sock is a comfortable sock that is good for all day use: I have white ones that I run and work out in and black ones I wear to work. They are all synthetic and manufactured in Italy, and have lasted well in my experience. The real issue here is the name...I don't really think of these as a true compression sock; they are much less constricting than typical compression socks, and if you are expecting that, you will be surprised. These are more like ordinary athletic socks with minor compression in the midfoot region. They will not cure plantar fasciitis, but they do make the pain more manageable and less severe while wearing them. They are treated with silver DryStat, so they dry quickly and resist odor. These are high quality but expensive socks. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis by all means buy a pair and see if they help (they do help me), just remember they aren't as supportive as some other more conventional compression socks.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Firm Grip 60-Inch Golf Umbrella in Black & White; Brand: Firm Grip; Review: The Firm Grip 60" umbrella is an excellent, sturdy, and quite large umbrella. It is easy to open and close, and is sufficiently domed to be wind-resistant: it would take a pretty strong gale to turn this umbrella inside out. It is 60" in diameter and 39" high, so it keeps you as dry as possible even in wind-blown rain. I like the black and white gores, but it's also available in all black if that's your preference. This is an excellent full size umbrella and a great value.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bcurb Ankle Socks & Compression Sleeves Plantar Fasciitis Heel Arch Support; Brand: Bcurb; Review: Foot Angel is a compression foot sleeve that is most commonly used to combat plantar fasciitis pain. I have had plantar fasciitis in both feet, and have tried a variety of products and the Foot Angel works well for the price. Each box contains one sleeve, so if you want one for both feet order two. Now a word on sizing: this is the most controversial feature of this product, but people need to understand that this is a compression sleeve and is therefore designed to compress. That it does with great gusto is an intentional design feature. I wear men's size 12 (US) shoes, and I have read some reviewers with feet smaller than that say they could not get this on and it is too tight. It does take some effort to get on as with any tight-fitting garment. I don't wear this at night when I sleep, but I can wear this all day and have experienced no untoward effects, but I have received relief from a substantial amount of plantar fasciitis pain from this sleeve. Understand what you are signing up for when you buy this: it is essentially a very tight toeless sock, and is not inherently comfortable as footwear, so don't expect it to be. Personal perceptions of pain are by their very nature subjective, but in my case the relief this provides from plantar fasciitis pain far outweighs the discomfort of the tight-fitting sleeve. Having said that, if in doubt about the appropriate size, I would definitely go larger. It would be a better product if there were a larger number of sizes so people could more readily find a fit they found ideal. I have worn this under a variety of socks and in a variety of shoes without difficulty. Obviously if this is causing pain, swelling, or other issues don't wear it, but if you have significant plantar fasciitis pain this is a worthwhile product to try.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Garmin vívosmart - Blue (Large); Brand: Garmin; Review: I have used a lot of fitness trackers over the years, mostly a huge variety of Fitbits, but I am always open-minded about trying something new that might be better. The Vvosmart is a very aesthetically pleasing package that has all the basic functions I wanted plus a bunch I didn't care about. I like having the clock and step counter prominently visible (that's why I bought it after all) and the step counter works flawlessly even after months of use, the clock not so much. One of my big complaints about the Vvosmart is trying to keep the clock set to the proper time (this is, in fairness, also a problem with some of the less sophisticated Fitbit products), a bigger problem than you might expect especially if you travel a lot (I'm an airline pilot). Controls tend toward the obscure and convoluted, making this a much less ergonomic choice than I first anticipated. The display is in my experience prone to pixel failure as well, but overall most functions are fairly well annunciated, but controlling this tracker and ensuring stability of settings is more cumbersome than needed and certainly more so than other similar products. I do like the way the Vvosmart looks, and it has a better display than many competitors and a good band (better than any Fitbit I have used) as well as very good battery life (maybe six or seven days at a stretch), but keeping up with settings is a major nuisance. In the end I gave the Vvosmart a fair shake and ultimately went back to Fitbit and am currently using a Charge HR.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Thorlos Unisex XJ Running Thick Padded Crew Sock; Brand: thorlos; Review: I have worn Thorlos for years, and absolutely love these socks. Although they make several varieties (I'm also fond of their "Fitness" socks, which are slightly different in composition), these are my go to socks for running or anything remotely athletic. These socks are 88% acrylic, and hold their shape well. They are also strategically padded, which I appreciate as a heavier heel-striker: I find these to be optimally cushioned and I never get blisters with these. They are very long lasting for running socks. I order four or five pairs a year and wear a pair most days, so even though they are relatively expensive, I think they are a good value due to their comfort and durability. I will say that they are made mostly out of an acrylic ("Thor-lon") that is exceptionally smooth...so smooth you need to be careful if you wear these around the house on hardwood or other highly polished surfaces as they can be rather slippery. I wear a size 12 (US) shoe, and the large fits me perfectly. I hope they never change this sock as they are always my first choice for running comfort.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Southwest Technologies TW6030 Elasto-Gel All Purpose Therapy Wrap; Brand: Southwest Technologies; Review: Elasto-Gel makes the best therapy gel packs on the market. I first found Elasto-Gel because that was what my physical therapist used after I had knee surgery, and I have been a fan since. They are extremely pliable, retain their cold for longer than most other brands, and allegedly will not leak even if punctured (though I have not personally tested that last claim). The wrap is big enough to go around the entire leg, which is great for knee therapy, and the Velcro bands hold it securely in place. I have used several brands of therapy gel packs, and can definitely say that Elasto-Gel are the best I have used, even if they cost a bit more. I highly recommend this therapy gel wrap!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Elasto Gel, Hot/Cold Wrap, 4" X 24"; Brand: Elasto-Gel; Review: Elasto-Gel makes the best therapy gel packs on the market. I first found Elasto-Gel because that was what my physical therapist used after I had knee surgery, and I have been a fan since. They are extremely pliable, retain their cold for longer than most other brands, and allegedly will not leak even if punctured (though I have not personally tested that last claim). The wrap is big enough to go around the entire leg, which is great for knee therapy, and the Velcro bands hold it securely in place. I have used several brands of therapy gel packs, and can definitely say that Elasto-Gel are the best I have used, even if they cost a bit more. I highly recommend this therapy gel wrap!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: TROPICAL PALM TREES MEN'S HAWAIIAN ALOHA SHIRT; Brand: Alohawears Clothing Company; Review: ? It is as ordered. Fits as expected. Very good tailoring, too: the pocket print lines up with the shirt print.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant; Brand: ; Review: functional & priced right; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant; Brand: ; Review: functional & priced right; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: LEE Men's Stain Resistant Relaxed Fit Flat Front Pant; Brand: ; Review: great value; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: LEE Men's Stain Resistant Relaxed Fit Flat Front Pant; Brand: ; Review: great value; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Carhartt Men's Workwear Pocket Short Sleeve Henley Original Fit Shirt K84; Brand: ; Review: functional, good value; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Industrial Carpenter Jean LU200; Brand: Dickies Occupational Workwear; Review: great value; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant; Brand: ; Review: functional & priced right; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant; Brand: ; Review: functional & priced right; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant; Brand: ; Review: functional & priced right; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Original 874 Work Pant; Brand: ; Review: functional & priced right; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: var aPageStart = (new Date()).getTime(); var ue_t0=ue_t0\|\|+new Date(); window.ue_ihb = (window.ue_ihb \|\| window.ueinit \|\| 0) + 1; if (window.ue_ihb; Brand: ; Review: functional & priced right; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Carhartt Men's Workwear Pocket Short Sleeve Henley Original Fit Shirt K84; Brand: ; Review: functional, good value; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: New Balance Men's MW577 Hook and Loop Walking Shoe; Brand: ; Review: no-skid, non-tie, which is what father needs now; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Mens Relaxed Straight Fit Pant; Brand: ; Review: good value; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Visconti Visconti Big Leather Organizer Messenger Bag In Distressed Leather; Brand: Visconti; Review: very handsome & utilitarian; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pacific Legend Men's Hibiscus & Palm Hawaiian Shirt (S, Navy); Brand: Pacific Legend; Review: looks good; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pacific Legend Men's Hibiscus & Palm Hawaiian Shirt (Black); Brand: Pacific Legend; Review: great; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Short Sleeve Pocket Tee Big-tall; Brand: ; Review: comfortable, good value; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Geometric Sunset Hawaiian Batik Tropical Cotton Shirt By Johari West; Brand: Johari West; Review: beautiful, sutle pattern; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's Heavyweight Henley; Brand: ; Review: comfortable, great value; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pacific Legend Mens Floral Hibiscus and Palm Hawaiian Shirt; Brand: Pacific Legend; Review: looks good; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dickies Men's The Traditional Baggy Houndstooth Chef Pant; Brand: ; Review: comfortable; breathable fabric; very good product.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: MoMA Starry Night Umbrella, Full Size; Brand: MoMA; Review: MoMa does it again with another intelligent, functional utilitarian object and turned it into art! What a delight to open & surprise! It's VanGogh inside.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Johari West Royal Leaf Tropical Hawaiian Batik Short Sleeve Cotton Shirt by; Brand: Johari West; Review: Tailored well; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Insta Slim Mens Compression Muscle Tank (INT); Brand: Insta Slim; Review: Fit as expected, washes well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel Residences; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: We have two daughters aged 16 months and 3.5 years, and this was the best holiday since they were born. The 2 bed apt was great - as big as our house, only negative was kitchen could have been better equipped with bread knife etc. The kids club was great, and ran to the timetable on the web, so only using TV for one hour per day. The staff were great and our girls were really keen to go there. It was modern, clean, and safe - no shoes or food inside. Our 3.5 year old loved the fish feeding, Balinese dancing and cooking classes. We enjoyed lunch by the pool. The ATM and Cicle K 24 hr convenience store were great, and on the property. It was also good to get non Nusa Dua prices on laundry just outside the gate of the hotel. We used the nearby St Regis for very nice dinners without the kids ! Already planning a return in January.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Seashells Broome; City: Broome Kimberley Region Western Australia; Review: This was our 3rd time at Seashells and it is great accomodation with children. It's the best value self contained accomodation at Cable Beach. Over the years they have refurbished and got new furniture. This time we stayed in the 3 bed unit and can recommend it was handy having two showers and less high density so you don't hear the neighbours.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Novotel Vines Resort Swan Valley; City: The Vines Swan Valley Greater Perth Western Austr; Review: This was a ladies weekend away from husbands and kids. We had the 3 bed apt, which was a townhouse with loads of room to spread out and socialise. Was quieter than being in the main resort, but easy walking distance to the gym, and pools. Enjoyed the cocktails with the kangaroos on the golf course. Will be making this an annual event as so close to Perth, yet seems far away.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel Residences; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: This was our 2nd visit to Novotel Nusa Dua, and it won't be the last. The apartments are great with children, we can put them to bed and order food and eat in comfort. The kids club is excellent, we checked out all the others in Nusa Dua apart from Club Med and didn't find any better. The spa is great too, and the gym and fitness classes. Since on the edge of Nusa Dua you can get genuine Bali prices out the back door or the sanitised version out the front - perfect. The conenience store and ATM on site are great as well as the Pause Cafe - lovely bread and cakes. Top marks to the Novotel.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ashmore Palms Holiday Village; City: Ashmore Gold Coast Queensland; Review: We stayed for 8 nights over Easter 2012 with our 2 year old and 4 year old, and can recommend. The staff were very fiendly and helpful. The kids activities were great Trixie puts in lots of effort - you do stay with the kids though. The kids playground is great and is full of "little friends". Good location for getting to Movieworld and Wet and Wild, and Seaworld is close too. We tried to do without a car as we flew from WA, but that lasted 1 day, buses etc. not convenient (or cheap) with young kids. Recommend Cars2Go thanks to Jan at front desk. Slightly strange location amongst car yards, but beautiful when inside the site. Great laundry with Miele front loaders.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Jurien Bay Tourist Park; City: Jurien Bay Western Australia; Review: We had two cabins during the June long weekend, and originally had been disapointed we couldn't get 2 deluxe side by side, so we had 2 off 2 bedroom cabins. The cabins were spotless, in a great location opposite the jumping pillow (no 8 and 9), and with the lovely playpark at the jetty the kids were sorted. The sofas were even comfortable and we had a good meal at the Sandpiper. Love the cycle path at the beach for the kids. We will be back and won't be worrying about booking the deluxe option.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Jurien Bay Tourist Park; City: Jurien Bay Western Australia; Review: Just had our 2nd trip to Jurien Bay with children under 5 and it didn't dissapoint. We stay in the cabins overlooking the jumping pillow which the kids love. The cabins are well set out and good value (and there's not much of that in WA). Much windier in summer our previous trip was in June. Cycle path great for kids, lovely playpark at the beach, and I am told the coffee is good at the Jetty Cafe. Catered in this time stopping off in Cervantes to buy crayfish. Ventured out to the pubs to watch the Australian Open final staff not very friendly at the Sandpiper.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Swissotel The Stamford Singapore; City: Singapore; Review: Had a good stay here with 2 children ages 3 and 5. We had a corner room which was L shaped and big enough to add a cot and a rollaway bed and still have room to swing a cat. Also had a seating area which was great whent he children were asleep. Great view to the Singapore Flyer but balcony not useable. Used the free shuttle to Sentosa for Universal Studios.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Angsana Villas Resort Phuket; City: Choeng Thale Thalang District Phuket; Review: We've just returned from the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas and can thoroughly recommend it. We had a 2 bed, 2 bath duplex, and it was finished to a very high standard - you could have lived in it permanently. The pool area is lovely, and the kids club was great, open 9am to 9pm. We have a 3 and a 5 year old and they both enjoyed the scheduled, and general activities. Nicky was lovely, and it was fine to leave the 3 year old for up to an hour. They can take the kids to the restaurant for dinner too. Also used the waterslide at the sister hotel and this was a great success - didn't imagine we would have to pay for it but it was reasonable. Transport was a bit frustrating, local taxis are not allowed into the complex and to take one you have to take a golf buggy to the gates, then there might not be a taxi. Half way through we realised there was an on demand van which was great for transfers within the laguna area. Every time we tried to organise it the front desk tried to persude us to take 2 shuttle buses instead, but we stuck to our plan. Can recommend Flame restaurant at the gates, and Oasis spa and they will pick up and drop off. At $110 through Asiarooms this was a bargain and the weather although humid wasnt rainy.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel Residences; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: This was our 4th trip and we will be back. From the greeting on arrival at the airport to being dropped off again at the end of the holiday it was a pleasure. Love the apts with the kids, they can have food they are familiar with and early since they are really tired after a days swimming etc. The kids club is great and special thanks to Dian and Ayu for taking such good care of our kids - it's the 1st place they want to go on arrival. Great to have the onsite Pause Cafe and bakery and the convenience of Circle C and the ATMs is fantastic. The spa is really good value at $30 for a 75 min massage, and for a cheaper alternative go outsude the back door to Igrith for $7. Love the aqua class, and the stretching and power walking Gede and Arsa to be commended.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel Residences; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: This is our 4th trip, we have 2 girls ages 4 and 6, and the Novotel is perfect for us. Like the apartments where we can prepare some food for the kids, also loads of room for everyone to relax when the kids are sleeping. The room service is great, and under $10 per serve for mee goreng etc. and have a dining table etc. makes it very comfortable. We had dinner on the Weds night this time, and enjoyed the Balinese dance it was great. The spa is fab and pricing good. Our kids love the kids club and Dian, Sri Ayu, and Novi do a great job, and there are new apprentices too - all lovely. I enjoy the aqua, walking, and streatching and Arsa, Gede, and Arafin all work very hard. We will be back. This time we stayed in a private residence which offered great savings.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Discovery Parks Bunbury Foreshore; City: Bunbury Western Australia; Review: We booked a long weekend 12 months in advance because this place is so popular. The park itself is really well laid out with pool, jumping pillow, tennis courts etc, and the location by Koombana Bay is great. However our chalet did not match the price of almost $300pn, it was full of sand and had not been well maintained. My husband was sure the bag in the vacuum was full, but no the hose was jammed with an old toothbrush and the machine had no suction, hence sand all over the chalet. The flyscreens were hanging off, the windows hard to operate, and 5 out of 6 chairs on the verandah had broken bits. There was even toothpaste smeared on the bedside cabinet. I gave this feedback on checkout and in a survey and haven't heard a thing back.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Seashells Broome; City: Broome Kimberley Region Western Australia; Review: We've been coming to Broome regularly over the past 8 years and this time were back at Seashells. It's a great set up and the shaded pool is a big attraction. The upgraded bathroom and kitchen is good. The only thing is the noisy old fashioned air conditioners in the bedrooms. Staff very helpful and Cable Beach is awesome.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel Residences; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: We've been to the Novotel at least 5 times now and it's as good as ever. We have 2 children 4 and 6 and it's perfect for them. The kids club is great and since free it's so easy to go for an hour here And there and give us a break. The ladies there are great especially sri and Novi. The morning walks, stretching, and aqua are great too good job Arsa, Aragon, and Puja. Love the onside bakery, the kids enjoy the Wednesday dance show and the spa rocks at $30 for an online booking for massage it's great value. Love the apartment rooms great for feeding fussy kids.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mandurah Ocean Marina Chalets; City: Mandurah Western Australia; Review: We were a party of 10 adults (40's up to 80's) and 5 kids (2 to 9), and this place suited us all perfectly. The chalets are modern and well mantained, with good facilities. Lovely BBQ area in the middle. Great for kids scooting and cycling as no tents and trailers etc moving around the site. Location fab, 2 mins to kids beach, restaurants, and cinema. Lovely and flat for kids cycling and scottong and everyone else walking. Park the car and don't move it for the weekend. We will be back.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Premier Inn Dumbarton Loch Lomond Hotel; City: Dumbarton West Dunbartonshire Loch Lomond and ; Review: We stayed here latelt to attend a function at The Claret Jug (part of Cemeron House Loch Lomond) and it was very handy less than 20gbp in a atxi at the end of the night. I am a huge fan of Premier Inns and love the family rooms this one was even larger than the norm. It's right beside a petrol station with a mini Spar and Greggs bakery, the Brewers Fayre next door for the breakfast was good too.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre Princes Street Hotel; City: Edinburgh Scotland; Review: We are Scottish and live in Oz and recently were on holiday and had an overnight in this hotel. Great location and we were lucky enough to score a castle view room, fab for nipping out to the shops in Princes St and a stone's through from the castle, grassmarket etc. Staff were very helpful. It's worth paying a little extra for this location. Tesco Express 2 mins away for supplies and alcohol. Only downside cant even stop a car outside for unloading as no entry onto Princes St, the parking at Castle Terraces for 10gbp for 24 hours was great value for Edinburgh.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hunters Quay Holiday Village; City: Dunoon Cowal Peninsula Argyll and Bute Scotland; Review: We are from the UK but live in Oz, we used this as a weekend away with family and friends and had 3 caravans. The cravans were the best I have ever been in we had a 2 bedroom, double glazed and heated throughout and 2 toilets. The kitchen and all facilities were well appointed. The park itself is very scenic (former US Navy quarters at Holy Loch). The kids activies were very good, and the onsite shop was handy. The restaurant was average with a lot of fried food but reasonably priced. OUr kids enjoyed the heated indoor pool. We all had a great wekeend. The cleanliness was amazing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Best Western Stockholm Jarva; City: Solna; Review: We were looking for a reasonably priced family room for 1 night before a cruise that would store some luggage and this place fitted the bill. Its not the most modern place, and not in the centre but easy to reach by train except when you have luggage. The family interconnecting room was good, the kids had a pull down sofa in a separate living room, it had a thumb lock on the door and the 5 year old managed to lock us all out. The staff tried for 1hour to get a functional key to open it to no avail and then called a locksmith who drilled out the lock. There was no charge to us for this, the hotel were very good but perhaps shouldn't have locks on the children's portion of interconnecting family rooms. Petrol station across the road good for cold beers and other essentials.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Quest Newmarket Serviced Apartments; City: Auckland Central North Island; Review: We had 4 apartments when a group of us met up in NZ lately. The apts are spotless and in a great location - hairdresser under the building, shops and restaurants on the doorstep. Countdown supermarket within walking distance. We also went to the Les Mills in Khyber Pass Road. Patricia on the front desk was superb at helping with our arrangements and making sure we didn't pay $100 per taxi back to the airport like we did on arrival.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mandurah Ocean Marina Chalets; City: Mandurah Western Australia; Review: We've been back again and it was a great trip over the early March long weekend. The chalets are in a perfect location for getting to the beach restaurants and cafes without a car. The property is very well kept and clean. Ideal for families with children.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Denmark Waterfront; City: Denmark Western Australia; Review: We booked late for the Easter long weekend and were very lucky to get a room here. We are 2 adults and 2 children 6 and 8, our room had a queen bed, and two singles, a little kitchen and a bathroom. The property is nice and clean and the owners helpful. Our room was big, and we weren't all on top of each other. Two types of heating and electric blankets were very good on the cold wet day. We used the BBQ to make lunch. It's a little out of town, but very accessible by car. Great to have the towels changed daily as the weather was damp so they would have been hard to dry.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Golden Sands Resort by Shangri La; City: Batu Ferringhi Penang Island Penang; Review: On a recent visit to Penang we stayed at both the Holiday Inn Resort and the Golden Sands, we are a family with 2 girls 6 and 8 - the Golden Sands was much better for kids and actually cheaper although I did book last minute. The gardens and pool are beautiful and the pool has a slide. The indoor play is fantastic and easily good for a 2 hour session - a parent has to be in attendance because it is open to the general public. The kids club was great we hardly saw our kids they even provided food, and a movie club so the parents could have a peaceful dinner. Good attendance at kids club so our kids made friends. Anita family massage was on the beach and great value $10AUS for 30 mins. There was a great singer at the pool area doing Eric Clapton covers. The rooms are a bit tight for 2 kids but they were hardly in the room. The evening buffet for dinner wasn't great value go to the Rasa Saya instead - all the same group.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Quest Mandurah; City: Mandurah Western Australia; Review: I recently visited for 1 night with my 8 year old daughter. We normally stay at the Ocean Villas or the Dolphin Quay and neither was available for only 1 night. Quest is further from the action - cinema, quays, restaurants etc. but we had our bikes so were amongst it in no time. The inside of the apts isn't as modern as the outside suggests but still very nice. Management even posted back a handbag my daughter left behind.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel Residences; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: We have been to the Novotel many times. We are a family of 4 with 2 children ages 6 and 8. We were not disappointed, and there have been some changes. We loved the kids movies at 6.30pm adjacent to the restaurant, meant we could eat in peace while the kids watched the movie - also got us in that restaurant a bit more ! The new kids swimming session with kids club at 10am was popular with our kids. The beach club has changed and while the bus and approach are better, its very hot at the café as its quite far back from the breeze. Fans would be good, we only went once due to the heat. The kids club as ever was great, the staff are so lovely and genuinely love kids special thanks to Ayu, Wati, Chips and Thomas. They were a bit stretched at times, and maybe need some more help. I always enjoy the fitness sessions inc. yoga, stretching, and aqua Gede, Ari, and the others do a great job. Great convenience with the on site bakery, convenience store, ATM and cheap laundry across the road. Already working out when we can come back.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Z Hotel Glasgow; City: Glasgow Scotland; Review: We are two ladies from the UK who have lived in many different places. Had a day at the Blythswood Spa and decided to make a night of it in Glasgow before dining in the west end. Looked at the Premier Inn and Travel lodge, but this was only 40GBP and right on George Square. Rooms were ultra modern and no window was not a problem. Comfy bed, good shower, and the cheese and wine was a good bonus. Would definitely stay here again, and will check out other Z Hotels.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Loch Lomond Waterfront Luxury Lodges; City: Balmaha Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Pa; Review: I am Scottish but live in Australia and was over for a family wedding. The lodges were superb and very spacious. 2 mirror image bedrooms each having its own bath and shower, and a further shower and toilet downstairs. Bed huge and very comfy. Open plan living area very nice and warm even in Feb. We hosted a gathering of 30 and there was plenty of space. Lovely outlook.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Navona Luxury Apartments; City: Rome Lazio; Review: We are a family of 4 with children of 7 and 9. This apartment was perfect we had 131 with a separate bedroom and a sofa bed in the living room. Loads of space even with the sofa bad out. Shops and restaurants right outside the door. Very helpful staff and pick up at airport highly recommended. Our apt had 16th century frescoes and other lovely touches. Fear this may have spoiled us at the beginning of a 4 week holiday ..., Location. So central we never used the bus walked to everything.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Forte16; City: Florence Tuscany; Review: We stayed for 2 nights with 2 kids ages 7 and 9. Apts worked out really well COOP very close has everything you would need. Enjoyed the pool but please open earlier than 6pm. Go to Il Barrino close by for beautiful Tuscan food best meal of our 9 days in Italy. Husband would have preferred to be nearer the centre but walk was pleasant past cafes and shops and mostly pedestrian areas.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Travelodge Watford Central; City: Watford Hertfordshire England; Review: Stayed here overnight before Harry Potter. Location great right in the centre of Watford easy walk to shops and restaurants. Parking at Church car park will cost you 8GBP for 6 hours would have been good if website had said this... On the downside very hot in corridors think sauna, we managed in the room with a fan but we are from Oz.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Waldorf Woolloomooloo Waters Apartments; City: Sydney New South Wales; Review: We travelled mum and 2 kids 7 and 10, with another family. We had the studio apt and the other had the 3 bed exec apt (lovely views of the harbour bridge. Our studio was very good, large for Sydney and had space for me to read after the kids had gone to bed. Kitchenette was very handy for breakfast, and the washing machine and dryer came in useful. Air conditioning very effective. Shell petrol station is across the road and has a mini Coles open 24/7, Woolies at Potts Point is 10 mins walk. To walk into Sydney takes about 20 mins through the Botanic Gardens, the kids got fed up with this so we walked 6mins to Kings Cross and took the train. Nice pubs and restaurants all around. Pool is a tiny thing indoors with no windows so we didn't use it. Brett on reception was very helpful.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Tangalooma Island Resort; City: Tangalooma Moreton Island Brisbane Region Queensland; Review: We were travelling in NSW and QLD from WA, and spent our last few days on Tangalooma and it was wonderful. The family units with kitchenette were brilliant and mine was on the ground floor, so it had a little terrace overlooking the pool and beach - this would have cost so much more in WA. Units were immaculate, and staff looking after them were great, I left my diary and glasses, and when they stripped the room the put the stuff in my bag. We enjoyed the sand boarding and the bumpy ride to get there, Doc was a tonic for the kids. The snorkelling trip was great, and even though we were there on Oz Day with lots of boat traffic round the wrecks, Rose did a great job of guiding us, she even towed my 7 year old in a life ring as I was also supervising the 10 year old. The glass bottom boat was fun. We stayed 2 nights and elected to feed the dolphins on the 2nd one, this was a good strategy as we heard the brief and observed the night before when there were 2 dolphins, the next night there were 5. The BBQ grill is good but be warned it closes at 8pm, although a lovely man there agreed to serve us at 8.05pm and went out of his way to assist. The Fire and Stone restaurant was good.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dolphin Quay Apartment Hotel; City: Mandurah Western Australia; Review: We've stayed in these apartments many times over the past 5 years and love the views and location. Also love the large balconies and 2 bathrooms. I'd say they are now in need of new carpets and a lick of paint throughout to justify the price. Unfortunately we had a bike stolen from the underground secure car park. There were signs warning about thefts at the lift, but I thought we had it all covered as the bikes were locked. Afterwards the staff were great at getting the CCTV footage for the police, just wish the police were interested in receiving it. The robber has a key fob, and the management are in the process of changing the key fob coding, but until then be very careful. Great restaurants right on the doorstep, Woolworths is a short walk or bike ride away.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mercure Bali Nusa Dua; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: I've been to Nusa Dua many times and know the area, this was a quick solo trip so I didn't need to stay anywhere too expensive. The hotel is a nice size and has good amenities, and is handy for the gated community (although is technically outside of it) and nearby businesses. The rooms are not huge but they have everything you need and a nice big bed. I paid a little more (less than $5) for a pool view, that was worth it, and would consider a terrace next time. People had complained about the segmented bathroom with the sink in the room, but that was ok for me, and the shower was a great size. The pillows were very high and hard, and I persisted with the staff until I got something softer. Always managed to get a day bed and it was super comfy. Pool area great, and the lunch at the bar was tasty and cheap. The door entry key things were a pest, there was a knack of speed and dexterity required. If the kids had been with me they would have loved the rabbits. Went elsewhere for spa treatments they weren't cheap and not a dedicated facility just 2 hotel rooms near the pool. Beach club lovey and shaded, however ended up walking back one day as there were way too many people for the last 6pm bus, and traffic was bad so would have waited longer to eventually get back. All in all a great break and would definitely stay there again. The mini bar fridge wasn't as cold as I would have liked.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Premier Inn Glasgow Motherwell Hotel; City: Newhouse North Lanarkshire Scotland; Review: We had a table of 15 at 1.30pm on a Sunday and it suited the age range and tastes amongst us all. It was very reasonable the only complaint was they should have fed the children while we had starters, they got very hungry.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Nemea Appart Hotel Residence Quai Victor; City: Tours Indre et Loire Centre Val de Loire; Review: We stayed here for 3 nights in October with 2 children of 8 and 10. We had the 1 bed apt. It had a very comfortable pull down sofa for the kids to sleep on. The bedroom was large ennough for all our luggage and we had a lot as travelling from Oz. Kitchen well equiped. Bathroom lovely and spacious. Laundry available downstairs. Conveniece store on the doorstep. Lots of nice boulangeries and restuarants around. Right across the road fromthe train station we arrived on the TGV from Paris. Would highly recommend this place. Lovely pool dont forget your bathers like we did.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Novotel Bali Nusa Dua Hotel Residences; City: Nusa Dua Nusa Dua Peninsula Bali; Review: We have just stayed at the Novotel for the 7th time. We are a family of 4 and have kids aged 8 and 11, we have been going to the Novotel since the kids were babies. The apartments are awesome and very spacious. Room service to the apts is great, and good value esp as there are full dining facilities. Ours kids have outgrown the kids club (although alway happy to go see Ayu), a teen facility of program would be good like the grand Mirage in Tanjung Benoa. We've always enjoyed the restaurant but why have they stopped serving the chicken satay on the coals ? Also my husband didn't rate the beef rendang at all. Pause Cafe always good and that's where we had breakfast.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Holua Resort at The Mauna Loa Village; City: Kailua Kona Island of Hawaii Hawaii; Review: We are a group of 7 ladies and stayed here with 3 units. The accomodation is spacious modern and has everything you would need. The grounds are lovely and we were right beside a pool. Loved the Tommy Bahama beach equipment hire. The shops nearby were good too.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: PrettyGuide Women Slim Fit Ribbed Turtleneck Long Sleeve Maxi Knit Sweater Dress; Brand: PrettyGuide; Review: Perfect fit as expected, true to size; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Doublju Long Sleeve Drawstring Waist V-Neck Cotton Blend Long Dress for Women with Plus Size; Brand: ; Review: great fit as expected; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Charles Albert Women's Easy Braided Thong Flip Flop Sandal; Brand: Charles Albert; Review: tight between toes; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Knit&Love Women' Fitted Turtleneck Long Sleeve Knit Bodycon Pencil Midi Dress; Brand: Knit&Love; Review: fit as expected; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rocorose Women's Turtleneck Ribbed Elbow Long Sleeve Knit Sweater Dress; Brand: Rocorose; Review: fit as expected; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Z-joyee Women Sandals Fashion Flower Flat Thong Sandals Back Zipper Gladiator Shoes; Brand: Z-joyee; Review: cheap quality; Rating: 1.0/5.0	amazon_Clothing_Shoes_and_Jewelry
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Forney 75135 Pressure Washer Accessories, Quick Coupler Plug, 1/4-Inch Female NPT, 5,500 PSI; Brand: Forney; Review: Good quality and they work.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Karcher 24" Stainless Steel Spray Wand for Pressure Washers, 4000 PSI Rating; Brand: Karcher; Review: It's a piece of pipe with a fitting on each end. Everything seems to be first class.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Swimline 8039SL Heavy Duty Leaf Skimmer Molded Frame and Snap Adapt Handle; Brand: Swimline; Review: This works fine. Don't buy some cheap piece of junk and expect to get this quality.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: PowerFit PF31023B Surface Cleaner, 15-Inch; Brand: Powerstroke; Review: If you are going to clean sidewalks, driveways, or large flat areas, you definitely will appreciate this unit. I will not do without one ever again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: SIMPSON Cleaning 80155 Universal Pressure Washer 3 Orifice Size Turbo Nozzle for Cold Water Pressure Washers, 3600 PSI; Brand: Simpson Cleaning; Review: Good unit. Works great!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Swimline 3-Piece Anodized Outside Cam Mailer Telescopic Pole; Brand: Swimline; Review: Definitely one of the better, if not the best, pole out there.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: DOZYANT 4 Feet Propane Distribution Tree Extension Hose Assembly 1" x20 Female Throwaway Cylinder Thread x; Brand: DOZYANT; Review: All is good except I would like to see a little more flexibility in the hose.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Patio_Lawn_and_Garden
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Jammee Guest House; City: Vang Vieng Vientiane Province; Review: We stayed here in April for two nights,Room was clean with fan And TV, your own shower,very helpful staff.Good Breakfast.Bit of a walk from town but nice and quiet.Good price..Worth a Stay..Should we end up back at Vang Vieng then would stay again..If you want it loud and busy then stay more in town..maybe not so good for the 18-25 Rubber Ring Crew.!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Oriental Central Hotel; City: Hanoi; Review: Stayed for three nights in March and we were more then happy with everything Room very nice and clean,Staff very helpful and polite went out of there way to help and make everything easy for us.We couldn't find fault with anything,And a nice breakfast too.Would stay again; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Middle Path Spa; City: Pokhara Gandaki Zone Western Region; Review: Stayed here in March,Nice clean tidy hotel, staff very friendly and helpful.We stayed in Everest room top floor Morning view was great mountains very nice on a clear day! we would stay again.And close to shops restaurants.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Oriental Central Hotel; City: Hanoi; Review: Stayed here few a few night in March room was very nice no view but very very clean,and had everything you would need.Staff are very helpful and friendly breakfast was great location just what we needed.would stay again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Osho Home; City: Kathmandu Kathmandu Valley Bagmati Zone Central Region; Review: Nice clean and tidy just off the main Thamel path,so a bit less noise, Room clean tidy warm,Staff nice friendly and helpful, Breakfast ok bit of a mix porridge eggs toast ect. Small Roof Terrace.To View Sunset. Always a Taxi outside should you want one.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Check In Downtown Yangon; City: Yangon Rangoon Yangon Region; Review: Stayed for two nights last year,Room is small but clean fresh, Wouldn't want to spend the day in there,but served its purposes fine. Staff Very Helpful and friendly.Hotel In middle of the city up a side rd. Breakfast Ok nothing special. But i would stay again 2 or 3 nights fine.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hotel Kalyan; City: Jaipur Jaipur District Rajasthan; Review: Hotel is lovely, great decor. The rooftop resturant has great views a perfect place to watch sunset. The food we had was great, very tasty cashew curry and Dahl. Staff very helpful and friendly, good Wi-Fi and hot water.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: The Twelve Powers of Man; Author: Visit Amazon's Charles Fillmore Page; Review: It is a concise explanation of the lessons that are taught in the Bible from both a rational, scientific & metaphysical view point. Do not underestimate it or yourself.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Practical Paleo, 2nd Edition (Updated and Expanded): A Customized Approach to Health and a Whole-Foods Lifestyle; Author: Diane Sanfilippo; Review: Excellent nutritional information of all the foods we eat to answer the "Why" of good eating habits as well as great recipes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Pilgrim's Progress from This World, To That Which Is toCome (Penguin Classics); Author: Visit Amazon's John Bunyan Page; Review: These wanders' "observations" from so long ago, still hold true today. Bunyon did a great job illustrating how life is, when you step back and strip away our daily life.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress: A Classic Story Wonderfully Told (Listeners Collection of Classic Christian Literature); Author: Visit Amazon's John Bunyan Page; Review: These wanders' "observations" from so long ago, still hold true today. Bunyon did a great job illustrating how life is, when you step back and strip away our daily life.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: God's Perfect Timing: Surrender, trust in him. Leave your stressful life behind.; Author: Visit Amazon's Rev J Martin Page; Review: I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in learning about true peace of mind. Eloquent and powerful at the same time.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Men in Black 3; Brand: Will Smith; Review: Definitely better than the second movie, but not as good as the first. Quality was OK streaming, no interruptions at all.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Godzilla [DVD] [2014]; Brand: ; Review: where do I start? Slow, and boring....; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Under The Skin 2014; Brand: ; Review: boring; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Black Sails: Season 1; Brand: Toby Stephens; Review: This is one series I will continue to follow. Great plot, good action... cant wait for season 2; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: It Follows; Brand: Maika Monroe; Review: Ugh, painfully slow...; Rating: 1.0/5.0	amazon_Movies_and_TV
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: The Scar; Author: Michael Weiner; Review: I found this book to be well written and extremely entertaining. Once I began reading this book it was very hard to put down. I would recommend the book to everyone.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dead Ever After (Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood); Author: Visit Amazon's Charlaine Harris Page; Review: I like the book but I did expect more from the ending. I would suggest that if you like the series, read it.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Clockwork Angel; Author: Visit Amazon's Cassandra Clare Page; Review: This is an excellent series. I do love her other works as well (City of Bones, etc...) However, this series is my ultimate favorite!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Clockwork Princess; Author: Visit Amazon's Cassandra Clare Page; Review: All I can say is that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book. The ending was perfect. I cannot wait to reread this. If you are considering this series..... READE IT!!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices, Book 2); Author: Visit Amazon's Cassandra Clare Page; Review: I love this series. I would suggest this book to all ages. It is a great book. I have re-read this many times. WONDERFUL!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Hampton Inn Suites Hobbs; City: Hobbs New Mexico; Review: I've been staying in the Hampton every week since September 2008. I love the staff and the hotel is nice and clean. Plus it's a great value. It's away from downtown, but close to the truck bypass - and close to the Super Wal-mart.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fairfield Inn Suites Hobbs; City: Hobbs New Mexico; Review: Over the past few years, I've stayed in several hotels in Hobbs, NM. The Fairfield Inn is the nicest. The lobby, and rooms are clean, well maintained and well decorated. The free breakfast is great, especially the Jimmy Dean biscuits. The Applebee's next door gives a 10% Hotel Discount if you show them your room key. The only thing I would like to see is the next time they upgrade the furnishings in the room, please get lamps with plugs built into the base. I really like to have a handy plug for my phone next to the bed on the nightstand.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hilton Chicago Oak Lawn; City: Oak Lawn Illinois; Review: I've been here twice in the past two weeks and am well pleased. The hotel is older, but the recent renovation is very nice, clean & modern. The room is nice and I haven't had a noisy air conditioner. The location is in a 'working class' neighborhood and next to the rail line, so the views are not 'picture post card'. It's on the same road as Midway, so it's easy to get to the airport, but it's not so close you're paying the "close to the airport" rate. The Executive Lounge is nice. It has a pool table, two office desks, and a conference table. The food & drinks are great and the service is awesome. The ladies working there are very nice and sociable to the guests. The breakfast is a full breakfast and they have happy hour hors-d'oeuvres until 10. They gym is large with all the usual equipment - bikes, treadmills, elliptical and wights. The pool is indoor and looks nice, but I'm not a swimmer, so I haven't taken a dip.. They don't have a hot tub.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla; City: San Diego California; Review: I had a bigger room for less money than my co-workers that staid in another hotel. We even held a meeting in my suite. I think they will be staying there next time. The rooms are in great condition and very clean. The free breakfast is good and has all the usual items, including cook to order eggs/omelettes.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Courtyard Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square; City: Seattle Washington; Review: This Courtyard is not like the typical Courtyard. It is in a grand old building with great character. The hotel is still modern with high ceilings and well designed rooms. Walking distance to downtown and close to the train. Don't get a car, you wont need it. The only downside is the garbage trucks can be heard in the morning if you are on a low floor, so light sleepers may want to request a high floor or a room on the back side; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Larkspur Landing Bellevue; City: Bellevue Washington; Review: The larkspur hotel is tucked away just off I-90 near Bellevue. It's clean and nicely appointed with each room having a full size fridge and stove top. Breakfast is the usual Continental affair with a "California healthy" kick to the selections. Great staff. Always friendly.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: SpringHill Suites St Louis Brentwood; City: Brentwood Saint Louis Missouri; Review: I stayed in the Spring Hill two times this month for business. The hotel is a easy 5 minute drive from where I was working. The hotel is just off the interstate and is in a area full of shopping centers. There are a few good restaurants in the area, including a Houstons, Twin Oaks (hand crafted pizzas) and Buffalo Wild Wings in walking distance. The hotel looks new and has a nice decor. The rooms are a good size with a separate sitting area with couch and desk. Their is also a "bar" area with sink, mini-fridge and microwave. I stayed in a double queen room and saw that have some rooms with a traditional tub and others with a shower only. Good continental breakfast in the morning. Along with the usual breakfast breads, they have cooked oatmeal, scrambled eggs, and a meat (sausage, ham,etc). They have a lobby shop with a good selection including frozen dinners and beer. They have a parking deck that is shared with an apartment complex, so some of the spaces are reserved for them. You'll have to watch for the signs. Parking is free. There is a ASPCA dog shelter next door, but I could only hear the dogs when I was outside. I could not hear them when I was indoors in the lobby, or up on the 4th & 5th floors in my room.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fairfield Inn Portland Maine Mall; City: Scarborough Maine; Review: The hotel is under major renovation. You have to park around back. The rooms are very nice and basically band new after the renovations. The hotel is close to the highway, but no traffic noise reaches the rooms. The lobby and breakfast area are in disarray due to construction, but it won't affect your stay.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Career of Evil (Cormoran Strike, #3); Author: Robert Galbraith; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, mystery; Review: Best one in the series so far.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Life on the Road; Author: Gloria Steinem; Genres: history, non-fiction, biography, historical fiction; Review: I wasn't sure what to expect from the novel, since I really didn't know a lot about Gloria Steinem. This novel far exceeded my expectations. Steinem is a poignant writer, and does a great job explaining her travels, the lessons she learned through them, and the importance of her social justice fight throughout her life.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fates and Furies; Author: Lauren Groff; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: spoiler alert This novel was very slow to begin with. I was very disengaged in the first half, but once the narration was about Matilde it became a lot more interesting.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: One True Loves; Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: The story was really compelling and different. It was difficult to read at times because of how heart-wrenching it was, but it kept me captivated.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Coincidence of Coconut Cake; Author: Amy E. Reichert; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: A very entertaining read, but predictable; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Secret Keeper; Author: Kate Morton; Genres: history, fiction, thriller, crime, biography, historical fiction, romance, mystery; Review: The book was a little slow in the beginning, but there was an unpredictable twist at the end, which made it worth the wait.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	goodreads
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: D'Addario EJ26 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, Custom Light, 11-52; Brand: D'Addario; Review: The only brand to buy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: D'Addario EJ17-B25 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, Medium, 13-56, 25 Bulk Sets; Brand: D'Addario; Review: The only brand to buy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Jim Dunlop 6554 Dunlop Ultimate Lemon Oil, 4 oz.; Brand: JIM DUNLOP; Review: Good for neglected fretboards that have gone too dry.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dunlop 654 Formula 65 Guitar Polish & Cleaner 4oz.; Brand: JIM DUNLOP; Review: It's a decent cleaner but I use these product VERY sparingly.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Martin Acoustic Guitar Bridge Pins (M140); Brand: Martin; Review: Very fast deliver and a good price. Love these for a bright sounding Rosewood 000 sized guitar.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Martin Acoustic Guitar Bridge Pins (M150); Brand: Martin; Review: Great fast delivery at a good price. Love these for a bright sounding Rosewood dreadnought.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: 39 Inch Candy Apple Red Electric Guitar [Telecaster® Style] with Free Carrying Bag and Strap, &; Brand: Directly Cheap; Review: This 5 star rating is based on quality AND value. So after scouting out all the offshore Tele copies I deemed this the one to work with. At $104 shipped this is likely the guitar I should have had in 1972 ($17.34) but I had a virtually unplayable 12 string acoustic I bought for $40 back then. So this is labeled a Huntington and the online reviews were favorable. After about 50 minutes of quick setup, without measuring tools, it plays fine. The nut is the worst feature on this Tele, it looks as though the material was derived from recycled milk jugs. A bone nut will be ordered pronto. The neck is not "huge" as some had said...& I'm bummed. It's a nice medium C, not quite as big as my '87 USA Strat and I can accept it as it is, but I will end up with a full 50's vintage neck one way or another. I may swap necks...or the guitar for one that has some beef on the neck . Frets seem set well into the maple fingerboard, are not too big, a true medium. Filed up the ends, they were pretty sharp. Of course the saddles were a mess, most standing really high, but the allen wrench provided got them settled down in about 15 minutes. I think the maple neck wood is so young, the rutts in the logging road left behind by the transport truck hauling the logs away still have water in them. I'm happy. Solid ash body and solid maple neck and fretboard. No lacquer or urethane finish on neck or fingerboard. The sharp tortoise Stew Mac pick guard I bought will stand by, until the neck stops moving around, and I am convinced this Tele will remain mine. Then I'll take off the crap strings and install the new pick guard and new D'Addario's 10s. Now to learn what it can do. The gig bag is pretty sad, I guess it keeps the guitar from getting dusty.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Musical_Instruments
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Motel 6 Carson; City: Carson California; Review: This hotel looks like it has seen better days, the rooms need to have brighter lighting and they could use an update in the decor. with that being said though the rooms are spacious they were clean, noticed a very slight odor when first walked in but not too bad. Good connection to the net, my room was quiet and there is food and shopping within walking distance.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Comfort Suites; City: La Porte Texas; Review: this is a nice place to stay the rooms were clean and the have friendly help. The Savory Starts breakfast is better than most breakfasts that most hotels/motels put on.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Econo Lodge Inn Suites I 65; City: Brooks Kentucky; Review: If you need just a place to sleep and nothing else this is your place! The breakfast had somewhat stale doughnuts and some bread to toast, warm orange juice, and coffee that you had to pump on like 35 times to get a cup of coffee "was told a new pump was ordered"?; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Siegel Select; City: Albuquerque New Mexico; Review: This motel is below average even with what you expect for super 8's. They have toast and cereal for breakfast, the rooms are below average for super 8. The desk staff were alright I guess. The Travelodge is a part of the super 8 except even worse than the super 8.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Quality Inn; City: Edgerton Wisconsin; Review: The rooms were clean, The staff was great, The rooms were clean and very quiet. The have an indoor pool and jacuzzi. Will stay here again for sure. It was 70.00 per night; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Best Western Plus Portage Hotel Suites; City: Portage Indiana; Review: This place opened in Oct. of '09. Its very clean well kept. excellent staff and a lot of room to park a tractor trailer. The bed was very comfortable and the air conditioner was nice and quite. Will use again If I get a chance.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Quality Inn; City: West Branch Michigan; Review: This is a decent place to get away to if you like the log cabin decor. They had clean spacious rooms, a good restaurant and a fairly quiet location. The staff could have been a bit more helpful and a bit more friendly but all in all it was a good (not GREAT) stay. I would stay again, how ever if some place new were to pop up not to far away I would go there...; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Comfort Inn; City: Hebron Indiana; Review: This is a great Comfort Inn. It is a newer hotel (3 years old). They do have parking for semi trucks. The staff is great, friendly, and helpful. There is not a whole lot to do right close but there is a great Mexican restaurant close by with good food and beer. Laundry facility is only $1.00 to wash and $1.00 to dry. I will use this place again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: La Quinta Inn Suites Tulsa Catoosa; City: Catoosa Oklahoma; Review: This is a newer hotel 8-9 months old. Very friendly staff. Bar in the lobby opens at 4. Walking distance to the Hard-rock. Nice rooms, Very comfortable beds and pillows. Room was clean, could have been a little better (1 piece of small trash that was over looked by housekeeping) not a big deal. I had a room that shared a wall next to the elevator shaft, did not hear the elevator though, I was really surprised by that. The 1 thing that you should be aware of is that there is NO anti-slip surface in the bottom of the tub/shower, not a huge deal for me, however if you are a bit older this could be a big problem for you so be careful. other than that I will return and look forward to it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Express Hotel Suites Youngstown W I 80 Niles Area; City: Youngstown Ohio; Review: This HIE is newer as most other reviews have said. The rooms are appealing to the eye, the pool area looked nice, there is truck parking at the Pilot next door that is well within walking distance. I will stay here again for sure if I am in the area. Most importantly the rooms were VERY CLEAN! Thanks HEI; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Best Western Plus Seabrook Suites; City: Seabrook Texas; Review: Beds were comfortable, wired internet was fast. Now the bad, stains on the carpet in the room, thin enough walls to hear someone coughing in the room next to me, noticed at least 7 spiders on the walls in the hall and a few small ones in the room to. Their shuttle looked nice parked in the parking lot due to no one there to allow me to utilize this "service". The breakfast in the morning was very basic, scrambled eggs, and waffles. Would you like coffee with that? Go to the Shell station next door. Two employees talking behind the check in desk felt it was not their job to assure the coffee was full and the creamers stocked for the guests. They could do better here with some amount of effort.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Best Western Northwest Indiana Inn; City: Hammond Indiana; Review: The rooms are ok they seem clean not really any concerns I have with the room. The ladies that clean the rooms seem nice enough. The big problem I have with front counter people, they are rude, uncaring, and disrespectful to the point I didn't even want to approach the front counter because I knew it would upset me. The best part was the check out and the good by at the end. Not even a thank you from the staff.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Hilton Garden Inn Augusta; City: Augusta Georgia; Review: Was kind of worried this would not live up to my expectations for a hotel, however this was a really great place to stay. The rooms were nice size, the decor was good and the staff was very good. Veracruz Mexican restaurant is just a short walk away and is a very good place to eat. I will stay here again when I visit Augusta.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Express Hotel Suites Peru; City: Peru Illinois; Review: This H I E is in a rural area. Across from a Walmart. There is a bar/grill very close. The rooms here were bright and clean. All rooms had a mini refrigerator and a microwave. A good selection of channels on TV for sure. The pool and hot tub area looked inviting. Overall a great place!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn Suites Exeter; City: Exeter New Hampshire; Review: Stayed here because I could not get a room in Portsmouth. . This was a VERY nice hotel in a great town. I has alot of places within nearby walking distance. The house keepers were all very friendly and the front desk staff were terrific at helping me with places to eat and drink at. Will be back for sure. The king suites are quit nice.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Residence Inn Albany Washington Avenue; City: Albany New York; Review: This is a newer R.I. the rooms are nicely decorated, modern, clean, and very comfy! My stay was fantastic, all the was friendly and helpful. No issues at all. Will return if I am ever in the area again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn Carrollton; City: Carrollton Kentucky; Review: The rooms were up to date, clean, and quiet. Front desk staff were friendly and helpful. I will stay again without question. Shopping and places to eat are within walking distance. Breakfast was well stocked and was about what you would expect with a Hampton inn.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Comfort Suites; City: Commerce Georgia; Review: As soon as I walked in I was greeted with one of the best front desk employees I ever met (Mindy). She was friendly, patient, and helpful. She made check in an enjoyable experience. When I got to the room I was actually surprised at the cleanliness of the room, and the condition which it was in. I stayed at brand new hotels that just opened and they were in worse shape than these rooms. Everything looks new here! The owner takes great pride in this property and it really does show! Even the cleaning lady was very friendly and wanted to be sure everything was precisely done before she left. I will be staying here again if I am in this area.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn Detroit Auburn Hills North Great Lakes Crossing Area; City: Auburn Hills Michigan; Review: The room was clean, the bed was comfortable, and the breakfast was good with healthy choices. The staff here seemed to be uncaring, unhelpful, and unable to help with any special requests such as having your room made up by a specified time, or extra towels. The parking here is sub par because after 8 pm you will have to park in the mall and walk to the property. I will try a different hotel next time.; Rating: 2.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Disney Princess Cinderella Wedding Carriage; Brand: Mattel; Review: My 4year old granddaughter was pleased...anything dealing with a princess suits her right now! However I thought it was a bit smallish and we had trouble keeping the horse attached to the carriage.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Maxim Enterprise INC Wooden Animal Train Set 7 Piece; Brand: Maxim Enterprise INC; Review: I purchased this to go along with the step two train table for the granddaughters..they liked the animals and the train cars hook easily together with magnetics. Great little addition!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: ALEX Toys Rub a Dub Tub Soup; Brand: ALEX Toys; Review: Our granddaughters liked to pretend "cook soup" this summer in the swimming pool and they love pretend cooking when taking tub baths. The items float and the pictures of the food are colorful and real looking. Successful toy for water play!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Step2 787800 Naturally Playful Sand & Water Center; Brand: Step2; Review: We have now purchased two of these tables so that all four of our grandchildren. It has given them hours of fun time outside.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Little Tikes Easy Store Large Slide; Brand: Little Tikes; Review: Our two year granddaughter loves the slide. Wonderful; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Little Pony Carrying Case Mini Fig Compatible Carrying Case, Purple & Pink My Little Pony Compatible Carrying; Brand: Cornucopia Brands; Review: Granddaughter loved it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Toys_and_Games
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Target Marketing Systems Wood Corner Desk with One Drawer and One Storage Shelf, Black Finish; Brand: Target Marketing Systems; Review: This item was purchased for my granddaughter and she liked it. The picture represented the item well and the desk fit well in the corner of her bedroom.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pacific Coast Double Down Surround Pillow Set (2 Standard Pillows); Brand: Pacific Pillows; Review: These pillows were returned after 5 nights. Very soft and flat. If you like a soft pillow these are for you.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Bella BLA14436 One Scoop One Cup Coffee Maker, Black and Stainless Steel; Brand: BELLA; Review: I received this coffee maker in late October 2013. After using for less than 10 days, it no longer worked. Did not heat water, much less brew coffee. This was a terrible product and I was forced to return to the local UPS provider after boxing and printing the label to return. Very disappointing.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: 400 Thread Count Dot Embroidered Cotton Deep Pocket Sheet Set Color: Purple, Size: Queen; Brand: TRIBECA LIVING; Review: Texture not good; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Sleep Innovations Shea 10-inch Memory Foam Mattress, Bed in a Box, Made in the USA, 20-Year Warranty; Brand: Sleep Innovations; Review: Bought for my grandson. He loves it. He's 14 years old; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: 4D Concepts Sofa Table with Slate Top, Metal/Slate; Brand: 4D Concepts; Review: The only issue was missing leg casters (2 of 4). It didn't present a huge problem because the table is placed on tile floor so the table legs won't damage the tile.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Table Runner Spring Easter Floral - Beige, Lime, White 60 inch, 72 inch, 90 inch, 96 inch, 108; Brand: TheFabricAffair; Review: NeutraL and pretty too; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Utopia Bedding Cotton sateen Fitted Sheet (Full, White) – Premium Quality Combed Cotton Long Staple Fiber - Breathable, Durable; Brand: ; Review: I liked the fabric but not the elastic. Didn't fit my mattress well; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe Option, Chrome; Brand: Mr. Coffee; Review: So far this coffee maker is good. No problems.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	amazon_Home_and_Kitchen
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: M48 Tactical Tomahawk Axe with Durable Nylon Sheath; Brand: United Cutlery; Review: This product is totally awesome sweet design well constructed will most definetly Buy another one and price is not bad either; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: GH5026-BRK Survivor Bowie; Brand: Hibben; Review: Big awesome knife well made couldn't believe the size of this monster would recommend to everyone I know if you want a serious knife this is it; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: United Cutlery GH2033 Gil Hibben Competition Triple Knife Throwing Set with Sheath; Brand: Gil Hibben; Review: Another great creation by Gil Hibben great item well made well balanced if you are looking for a great quality throwing knife set check these out; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Gil Hibben Tanto Thrower Triple Knife Set; Brand: Gil Hibben; Review: Great throwers well made Gil Hibben makes some awesome quality throwing knives and awesome quality knives in general if you are looking for a good knife check out Hibben knives; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: United Cutlery GH201 Gil Hibben III Survival Knife with Sheath; Brand: Hibben; Review: HUGE KNIFE!!! looks just like the one used by John Rambo in Rambo 3 Very nice leather sheath fairly sharpgreat for any collection; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Cold Steel Trail Master in O-1 Steel Fixed Blade Bowie Knife w/ Sheath - 3916LCT; Brand: Cold Steel; Review: Very hefty knife came with the secure ex sheath Razor sharp right out of the box would be a great knife for hunting camping hiking survival would recommend to any collector or outdoorsman; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Iggy Peck, Architect; Author: Visit Amazon's Andrea Beaty Page; Review: We are purchasing this book because when we checked it out from the library it became a household favorite. The language has a lyrical flow. The book illicits laughter from both child and adult. After checking it out of the library about 1/2 dozen times we have decided to add it to our personal collection.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Famous Trains Stickers (Dover Little Activity Books Stickers); Author: Visit Amazon's Bruce LaFontaine Page; Review: If you have a train lover, who likes real trains, they will love this sticker book. I gave it as part of a gift for a 4 year train fan. he immediately started to play with it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Disney Scary Storybook Collection (Disney Storybook Collections); Author: Tk; Review: My kids love all things halloween or spooky. This collection of stories features their favorite disney characters in new stories, a fun addition to our reading time. The kids love it so much we read them all year through.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: One Monster After Another; Author: Visit Amazon's Mercer Mayer Page; Review: Mercer Mayer books are must haves for any family library. We have a lot of her more well known titles. Saw this one online and had to get it. we are glad that we did. If you have a monster lover in your house they will enjoy the story and crazy monsters.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Bravest Knight; Author: Visit Amazon's Mercer Mayer Page; Review: you will enjoy reading this book with your child. We are a mercer Mayer fan and enjoy many of her books.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Papertoy Monsters: 50 Cool Papertoys You Can Make Yourself!; Author: Visit Amazon's Brian Castleforte Page; Review: Our 5 year old loves it, the 3 year old wants it (just ordered another). Great fun, quality book. Family spent a good deal of time just reading and reviewing the different monsters!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Fault in Our Stars; Author: ; Review: The story is a girl meets boy. The difference is they are not your everyday teens. Yet in many ways they are like everyone on the planet struggling with the unfairness of time and life. It has been awhile since a book compelled me to read into the night instead of sleep (I am a mom, sleep is essential) this one kept me up so I could finish and cry. I would recommend.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Harry Cat's Pet Puppy; Author: Visit Amazon's George Selden Page; Review: One of my husband's childhood favorites. Great story.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: The Anatomy Coloring Book; Author: Visit Amazon's Wynn Kapit Page; Review: Awesome! Fast delivery!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice; Author: M.Ed. LMT NTS CI NCTMB; Review: Great book!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: A Massage Therapist's Guide to Pathology; Author: Visit Amazon's Ruth Werner Page; Review: Great!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Trail Guide to the Body AudioGuide; Author: Andrew Biel; Review: Saved money! Terrific books!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Atlas of Human Anatomy, 4th Edition; Author: Frank H. Netter MD; Review: Perfect! Thanks!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Divi Aruba All Inclusive; City: Oranjestad Aruba; Review: My husband and I spent 5 days at the Divi and had a great time. Check in was very easy, no long wait, no hassles. We went directly to our room (215) and it had two queen beds rather than a king (which is what our reservation paperwork stated). The front desk offered to move us the next day but the oceanfront king was on the first floor and did not have as great of a view as we had in our current room. My advice would be save the money on oceanfront and just get ocean view. Our balcony was great, view of the beach, the beautiful water, and all the boats. We could also sit on our balcony at night and listen to the live music. The beach is the best beach I have visited. I could have just floated in the water all day. My problem with the Divi is the reservation system for the restaurants that are a part of the all-inclusive price. We arrived Monday and could not get a reservation until Wednesday night. This seems to be an ongoing problem since several other reviews state the same issue. We did get to eat at The Red Parrot and Ginger's both were very good. Wish we could have tried more of the full service restaurants. The buffet was actually very good, much better than other "all-inclusive" buffets. The town is about a mile and a half down the road. Sometimes we walked and sometimes we took a cab for $8 usd. The shopping is expensive in Aruba, although at the open air markets you can barter. The further you get from the cruise ship terminal, the cheaper everything gets. The trade winds blew all the time which made the weather perfect. Just remember wear lots of sunscreen. Also, try a "dirty banana" and "arubian coffee" while you are visiting. Overall, very good resort for the money.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Westgate Town Center Resort Spa; City: Kissimmee Florida; Review: I booked this trip through west gate reservations and it was a great deal. We traveled off season (while kids are in school) so I don't know if this is available all the time. We stayed 3 nights- did a presentation/ tour and received 2 magic kingdom tickets- so we basically stayed for free since the Disney tickets would have been what we paid for the condo. I read a lot of reviews from around spring break and they were awful- the time that people were waiting to check-in was ridiculous. We didn't have that problem at all. We were 2 hours early from the time we said we would be there and our room was ready. We were the only ones in line so check-in was maybe 10 minutes. The only wait issue we had was with the bell hops, they didn't help with luggage they run people around the resort in golf carts. Not really sure what their job description is but I never saw one with luggage. The one time we called for a ride to take us to a pool across campus it was a 40 minute wait- this was on a Monday afternoon when the resort wasn't crowded. We were able to do everything we wanted with no wait- swan paddle boats and goofy golf. Our major issues-- The pools were filthy!!! Hair and bugs and just junky. Temp control on pool was crazy- our pool was heated some evenings and then it was freezing the last night. We went to another pool and it was hot but very dirty. I bet this is a major problem in the summer when it's crowded. Also our drinks at the pool bar were crappy- bottom self booze that the bartender meticulously measured. $13 for 2 crappy drinks. We returned back to the condo and there was a condom wrapper on the floor next to the bed!!! (For sure not ours-lol) I am hoping that housekeeping just missed it under the bed and it happened to get knocked out from under the bed. My other fear is that a staff member used our bed while we were away. We had the sheets changed just in case. The good stuff-- Our condo was very nice. The decor was fine, screened in balcony and full kitchen was great. I really like having a washer and dryer in the unit. Our TV was fuzzy and the maintenance man fixed it in less than 5 minutes. The resort is like its own town. Drafts ( the bar and grill) was very good food and drinks. Small convenience store was nice to have on property. Also the pizza delivery place was pretty good. All in all we would sent friends to that resort and we would go back after the Waterpark opens. O yea and also only off season- this resort is massive!!! No way the crowds won't be horrible during peak season.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hilton Garden Inn Orlando International Drive North; City: Orlando Florida; Review: We had a great stay here. The front desk was nice and professional. They printed directions for us anytime we needed them. They also printed a few emails. Front lobby was nice, cookies and coffee were available after a long drive. The pool was nice and clean as was the hot tub. The bartender was nice and drinks pool-side were good. Easy access to sea world and universal studios.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Express Destin E Commons Mall Area; City: Destin Florida; Review: Good hotel at a good price. Front desk was friendly and professional. Our room was close to the elevator but we couldn't hear it from our room. Close walk or drive to beach and shopping. Not enough time to enjoy the pool but it looked average. We would stay here again.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Hilton Los Cabos Beach Golf Resort; City: San Jose del Cabo Los Cabos Baja California; Review: My husband and I stayed here in January. The weather was great, especially since the temp back home was freezing! The main problem we had with this hotel is the smell in our room. Thankfully we weren't in the room very much. We reported the problem every day but one and we were told they knew about the problem and were fixing it. Well the day we left it still smelt bad. We were on the first floor so we couldn't leave our patio door open. If we had been upstairs with a balcony I wound have left it open to circulate some air. The only other negative was the cost of the restaurants in the resort. They were very overpriced but you can not walk to any other place so I guess they aren't worried about it being overpriced. When we went into town the food was cheaper and at some places much better quality. Now the really good stuff, the view is fantastic- from our room, from the infinity pool, from the restaurants, it was beautiful!! You just can't put a price tag on watching whales breach while you sip on a frozen concoction in the pool. This was our first time to Cabo and we really wanted to relax at the resort a lot but next time we go we will rent a car. Downtown was a lot of fun and would have spent more time at the marina and that area if we has rented a car this trip. The concierge and the ladies in the store were outstanding. They all went above and beyond to help us with a package that we needed to get through the airport.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Holiday Inn Select Memphis Downtown Beale Street; City: Memphis Tennessee; Review: We had a great time staying in Downtown Memphis. This hotel is a quick walk to Beale St, some construction on the walk but no safety issues- just typical downtown stuff. It's a bit noisy- we could hear the drunken conversations of folks on the street. We were on the 12th floor so they were speaking pretty loud. We had a corner room, huge windows looking across to The Peabody. Clean comfy beds, no bugs, hot shower- the important stuff. After checking in we were able to cross the street and see the Peabody Ducks- they come out at 11am and leave at 5pm. Get there early so you can see them. We used the Trolley to go to Bass Pro and then back to Beale for dinner and then walked back to hotel- very easy and cheap $1 per person per trip. Check in/out was super easy, car was waiting on us when we came down with luggage cart. Great front desk service. Also a lady that may have been an a housekeeper told us about the trolley and helped us plan our trip around downtown- I wish I had her name. I would stay here again.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Best Western Executive Suites; City: Columbus Mississippi; Review: Great place, good breakfast. Very spacious room, great layout- very functional for business or a small family. We enjoyed being able to walk to all the surrounding restaurants. Having a refrigerator/microwave in the room was great also. Very good deal for the money!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bluegreen Club 36; City: Las Vegas Nevada; Review: Sent my kid to camp, so the adults went to Vegas!! We enjoyed club 36, nice indoor pool area- hopefully they will expand with an outdoor water area. We loved the shuttle- it was a great to get down on the strip- we usually used Lyft to get back. The front desk was nice, friendly, helpful. We were able to check in very early- that helped us so much on the day we arrived (having been up since 3 am to catch a flight). The bagel shop had a great breakfast sandwich, the abc store was very convenient (and carried everything for a hangover) Our one bedroom condo had plenty of space. Nice full kitchen, dining area and laundry- all the amenities to make you comfortable. Also a view of the strip. We felt safe on the resort and did not have any issues, I will bring my kiddo next time!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hampton Inn West Palm Beach Central Airport; City: West Palm Beach Florida; Review: Our room was very clean, hot shower, with a big bathroom. Breakfast was good - better than most complementary breakfast. Robust coffee was amazing- rarely is free coffee any good but these was probably the best “lobby coffee” I have had. Didn’t check out pool, but did walk over to a little deli cafe across the street. Easy walking/sidewalks with crossing signals. Most importantly- the AC was super cold!!! Very good for Florida. Would stay again for business- not sure if I would bring family for vacation- it’s a few miles from beach.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: Amphora Hotel; City: Chania Town Chania Prefecture Crete; Review: The hotel is a couple of blocks from the city center, on the blue seafront. If you are coming with the airoplane you will have to take a cab though. But once we arrived, check-in was quick and easy. Within two minutes of walking through the lobby, we were in our room. The hotel is great and clean and the area is great! We had a great summer holiday thanks to this.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Avra Studios; City: Zakynthos Ionian Islands; Review: For my vacation I choose always a Greek island. Zakynthos is one of the nicest. We stayed with my friends for a week in AVRA STUDIOS, in Alykes. I particularly liked the original Greek style complex of studios in and the green environment. True escape from the city. Close to nightlife, but also a quiet place to relax at the pool enjoying cocktails, the AVRA STUDIOS was the best choice for our holiday. We found the tourist guide greek-tourism, and recommend the site for plenty of useful information. And, of course, can not wait to go back!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Letsos Hotel; City: Alykanas Zakynthos Ionian Islands; Review: We stayed 15 days with my wife in "HOTEL LETSOS". True rest and relaxation. Cute studios amidst a lush garden. Definitely not reminded our city. Located close to one of the most beautiful beaches of Zakynthos, Alykanas, where we went for a swim in the mornings. At night liked a drink poolside. Our room had many amenities we needed, and daily maid service, and a wonderful view from the balcony on the second floor. I think these 2 weeks will repeat!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Elpida Hotel; City: Alykanas Zakynthos Ionian Islands; Review: The area is super in general and the hotel does exactly what a hotel should when on such a great area, give you a safe heaven to spend some time of relaxation or even swim at the awsome pool (always super clean) when you dont feel like going on the beach (for example after a noon's sleep). It has really nice and big rooms, the service is often and the beds are always made even when u leave for an hour! The family that runs the place is really friendly and try their best to spend a lot of time with you to really get to know you (like every other reviewer said - dont want to sound clise). The hotel even feels like "a rooms to let" on some occasions because they are more friendly and "small hotelish" in their approach of things even though they are a medium sized hotel and im saying that as a rather good thing! I never liked big formal hotels where everything is measured and accounted for. If we even go back to Zante im definately staying there again!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sunny Days; City: Tigaki Kos Dodecanese South Aegean; Review: The decor was simple but very elegant. The rooms were clean and provided everything you need in a hotel room, air condition, satellite TV, radio, safe box, multi oven, electric fan, free Wi-Fi in the internet cafe, and above all, the calm sea view it’s incredible. The staff was very polite, warm and very helpful. The pool was so beautiful that only wanted to do was to sit from morning till night. Especially at night with the lights on and your drink from the bar is breathtaking!!!!!!!! On my next visit to the island we will definitely stay there again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Anemomilos; City: Agia Anna Naxos Cyclades South Aegean; Review: I don’t know what to say about this hotel…..Cozy, traditional, it has it all. The staff was very friendly. They came and picked us up from the airport and the very next morning we had the car keys in reception requested. And we didn’t have problem with the car because it has free parking. The rooms were very comfortable and clean, with LCD satellite TV and free Wi-Fi, a must for everyone. We do not know what to say!!!!! Kitchenette with fridge for anything you need. The swimming pool was large and clean, nice environment with a bar beside, with snacks, sodas, coffees, lots of drinks and very nice music. There are no words to describe this place. It was perfect!!!!Very warm hospitality!!!!! Bravo!!!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Grand Beach; City: Mykonos Town Mykonos Cyclades South Aegean; Review: From the moment, my wife and me stepped our feet there, we knew that it was gonna be a special experience. The reception stuff was very helpful and friendly for whatever we asked. We had booked a standard room. It was very clean with comfortable bed and it had a garden view that was really quiet. The weather was very warm, but fortunately, the room had airconditioning, so it wasn’t problem for us especially at noon. My favorite place was the pool and the whole area around it. The view from there was magnificent. It makes you feel, that it’s time to relax by admiring the blue Aegean sea. All in all we had a wonderful time there and we will definitely go there again and again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Yiannaki Hotel; City: Ornos Mykonos Cyclades South Aegean; Review: We do not want to come out of the hotel… It is so beautiful and calm!!! Everything that you desire is an order for them. The staff and also the owner, are so nice people and very helpful. The rooms are spotless and large with all the amenities. The bathroom is amazing. The view from the balcony perfect. You do not want anything else. Oh! It has a gym too, with sauna. If you want to exercise, it offers you gym; yes, yes it has a fitness center with sauna. And something else you rarely see in big hotels is the swimming pool which has seawater. I won’t say no more come and see soon. Anyway, I don’t think that you want anything else!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake: A Memoir of a Woman's Life; Author: Visit Amazon's Anna Quindlen Page; Review: I really liked this book because it hit home for me at my age,63. I think any woman who is in her 50-60's with children gone from home and is settled in to knowing herself, would associate with what Anna Quindlen is saying. I recommend this book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Women Who Started It: The Memoir of Jo Ann Gibson Robinson; Author: Jo Ann Robinson; Review: Too many players..I couldn't keep track of who was who. I got the gist of the historical value tho...Only read it because of my book club.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Devil and Miss Prym; Author: Visit Amazon's Paulo Coelho Page; Review: Too heady to contemplate. I like books that take me away from reality.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: The Water Knife; Author: Paolo bacigalupi; Review: Very interesting. What could happen in todays world.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Baker's Daughter: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Sarah McCoy Page; Review: I loved this book. I learned about life during WW2 from the prospective of a German family. I highly recommend it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Coal Run; Author: Visit Amazon's Tawni O'Dell Page; Review: Really liked the story!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Under Heaven's Shining Stars; Author: Visit Amazon's Jean Grainger Page; Review: Enjoyed the book but was very predictable.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Handmaid's Tale (Contemporary Classics); Author: Margaret Eleanor Atwood; Review: I absolutely hated this book. Most of my book club members hated it too!; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: In Farleigh Field: A Novel of World War II; Author: Visit Amazon's Rhys Bowen Page; Review: I'm just now reading this book & can't seem to put it down. Lovin the references to WW11 history.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with hotels as follows: Title: La Casa de Felipe Hostel; City: Taganga Santa Marta District Magdalena Department; Review: + Great hostel, with friendly and helpful staff. The food and natural fresh juices are excellent. In the courtyard and at the rooftop terrace are many hammocks, which makes this place a little paradise. A charming place. Every day From 4.30 - 8.30 pm a special tourist information desk is open were they offer tours and organize your transport. We really liked our stay here! - the food is quite expensive and our room was hot... Walking to the beach is relatively far. Internet connection was very slow!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Casa Villa Colonial; City: Cartagena Cartagena District Bolivar Department; Review: Nice hotel, friendly staff and pretty silent (!) airco. In-room wifi and beautiful communal areas. The beds could have been softer. The street is full of hostels and restaurants, and although there are some weird people around, I felt really safe here. For Colombian understandings a modern and well maintained room. Ask for a room with windows at the courtyard (we stayed in room #10, and it was great), we didn't have problems wtih street noises or the next door bar. They cwn do your laundry over here, but it's quite expensive. You can bargain the room prices a bit (that's a secret).; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lovesgrove Country Guest House; City: Pembroke Dock Pembrokeshire Wales; Review: We got the warmest welcome ever! Tired of a long trip we arrived at Lovesgrove Country Guest House and got a really warm welcome. The owner and his son and daughter are loving and funny people, and they have some good tips about what to visit in the enviroment. Really welcoming, warm and funny people. The beds and shower were excellentas well!! Price-quality is very good. Absolutely recommendable.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Netley; City: Torquay English Riviera Devon England; Review: Nice B&B, with attentive and friendly owners, more than prepared to help you if they can. The location is good, in a street with many B&B's, no noise at nights. Close to the boulevard. Very clean rooms. Definitely worth it!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Royal Hotel; City: Llangollen Denbighshire North Wales Wales; Review: The view was fantastic, and so were the beds! The breakfast was very good as well. The Hotel itself is not particularly interesting, but it is okay. Staff was a bit distant and their was no heating in our room. Very good location, close to the river and some nice restaurants, bars, tearooms and pubs. No elevators.; Rating: 4.0/5.0	hotelrec
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Telcel America Motorola Pre-Paid Cell Phone - Motogo! EX431G - Black; Brand: Motorola; Review: At first I did not like the small keys but they are raised and padded so I have gotten used to them. They are VERY tiny. It does work in my area even tho Walmart said it wouldn't. Check on tracfone.com with your zip code. Tracfone also has an awesome tutorial page for how to work every single feature and it is interactive. Great reception and really awesome standby time. Has been charged for over a week and is almost still 100% charged. The alarm is loud and can repeat, even has a 5 minute snooze button. The radio is GREAT. Loud ringer too. It's not a smart phone but its a really good phone for anybody who doesn't need a smart phone and you can't beat the price for a Motorola cell phone. The triple minutes for life is a huge plus for me. It comes with 20 minutes of airtime so you can make sure it works before you invest in an airtime card.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Nokia Lumia 635 AT&T (Black); Brand: Nokia; Review: Good phone for the price. Send back to my country (Vietnam) and my sister love it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Samsung Authentic OEM Micro-USB 3.0 Charger 2.0-Amp for Samsung Galaxy S5 and Note 3 - Non-Retail Packaging - White; Brand: Samsung; Review: Work like charm. Great product; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: LG Tribute Black (Virgin Prepaid); Brand: LG; Review: Very good phone for this price.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: ZTE Speed Black (Boost Mobile); Brand: ZTE; Review: Work good as expect for my kid. Thank you; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Portable Charger 10400 RAVPower 10400mAh (2A Input, 4.5A Dual USB; Brand: RAVPower; Review: Very disappoint with the item. Used for couple time. Yesterday going the field trip and the power bank died just after 1 hour that left me no phone and no GPS in the middle of the country side in Texas. Get home and plug it to charger, all 4 LED lid up very bright and stay like that all night. Pulled out of the charger and plug in my phone, nothing. Know juice at all. Plug it back to the charger again and there is the 4 LED lid up again. Bought it in April this year and used less than 10 time. If there is a half star or no star I would give it the right one.; Rating: 1.0/5.0	amazon_Cell_Phones_and_Accessories
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Twisted Veins HDMI Cable 6 ft, 2-Pack, Premium HDMI Cord Type High Speed with; Brand: Twisted Veins; Review: No question It is working.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon EOS DSLR Cameras (White Box); Brand: Canon; Review: True add lense working very well. I like it this is the lense I was looking for .; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Battery Grip Kit for Canon EOS 70D EOS 80D Digital SLR Camera Includes Qty 2 BM Prmeium LP-E6 Batteries; Brand: Big Mike's; Review: Very nice product no doubt about it. I like it very much. It is look like original canon product.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: MoKo [6-Pack Slim Flexible Premium Soft TPU Transparent Full Body Cover Case Fit Apple Watch 38mm Version (2015); Brand: MoKo; Review: Poor quality; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Adonit Jot Script 2 - Evernote Edition Fine Point Precision Stylus for iPad, iPad Air, iPad Mini and iPhone; Brand: Adonit; Review: Very best quality I like to very much I f put the pen clip it will be best in the marketplace; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: iGearPro Rechargeable 8GB USB Digital Voice Recorder - MP3 Format (Micro SD Card Included); Brand: EveryMarket; Review: Quality isn't enough for price you selling. 1st is SD card not moving from SDcard slot. I return the product. It isn't marketable.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Copy of Copy of Compatible Samsung MLTD105L Black Toner Cartridge; Brand: ALPHA BEATS; Review: Liked it; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: RAVPower FileHub Plus, Wireless Travel Router, SD Card Reader USB Portable Hard Drive; Brand: RAVPower; Review: Like the product; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: RAVPower FileHub Plus, Wireless Travel Router, Portable SD Card,HDD Backup; Brand: RAVPower; Review: Like the product; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Electronics
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Lenmar Replacement Battery for Nikon Coolpix 775 880 E880 885 995 4300 4500 4800 5000 5400 5700 8700 Konica Minolta; Brand: Lenmar; Review: This EN-EL1 equivalent battery is not as high-capacity as the Minolta NP800, but it is close. Much better than the SterlingTek batteries I bought before.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: MADE Products CA-1106-SLV SafeGrip Strap for SLR; Brand: Made Products; Review: Compared to wrist straps the SafeGrip wraps around your palm. It doesn't feel safer than without it. It is also harder to use the camera controls with it around my hand. The grip came with a ring missing. Customer support was quick to send out the replacement ring. They said there was a production batch missing the rings. If you can't attach the grip to you SLR, contact Camera Armor. I bought a Canon WS20 Wrist Strap for Camcorders that works perfectly with my Sony Alpha DSLR.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Tripp Lite P570-006 6 feet HDMI to mini-HDMI, Digital Audio - Video Cable, 6 feet (Discontinued by Manufacturer); Brand: Tripp Lite; Review: I like the quality of this cable even though I wish I could use a regular one, but unfortunately Sony puts a mini HDMI connector on their HD camcorders. It works perfectly between the Sony and a 1080p HDTV.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: THINKWARE F550 Full HD Dash Cam with high-speed Cortex A8 Processor, GPS Tracker & Dual Save Technology; Brand: Thinkware; Review: I bought the F550 in October, 2014 before a trip to Lake Tahoe. Everything seemed to be fine during the trip. The videos were sharp for a dash cam. However, on the way back I noticed the LED lights kept flashing while it actually was recording. The green GPS light was also flashing after it locked on the satellites. Its behavior has been inconsistent since then. Sometimes it can find the satellites after driving for a mile, and sometimes it takes a long time. The longest was over 10 miles before it said "GPS connected. Continuous recording will now start." Many accidents happen in parking lots, and this camera will very likely miss them. I don't understand why the device can't start recording right away when you start the engine and add the GPS data later when it gets a lock on the satellites. Sometimes the F550 would reboot during recording, and sometimes it would reboot several times after I start the engine. I checked the Thinkware website for updates, but the firmware version hasn't changed since my purchase. At the time of this writing I can only see the firmware downloads in Internet Explorer, not in Chrome v40 or Firefox v35. UPDATE 5/3/2015: I am upgrading the rating from 1 star to 3 stars after firmware update. The new firmware version is 1.00.12 dated 4/24/2015. After the update the F550 is now starting recording much faster, probably after driving a few hundred feet, even without a GPS lock. The blinking problem is also gone. However, I recently bought a SplashETech 0805 for less than 100, and I think it is a better value than the F550. The SplashETech starts recording instantly, and it has a color screen that makes configuring the device much easier. The build quality is not as good as the F550. Sandisk recently released high endurance micro SDXC cards for video recording. I would recommend them if you don't want to format the SD card every two weeks as suggested in the Thankware manual. Update 4/3/2016: We went to vacation and parked our car at SFO for two weeks. When we returned the F550 stopped working. It keeps rebooting. I checked the SD card and it is still good. The most complaints I heard about cheap dash cams are about their short life span. This premium one didn't seem to do much better.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Lensmate Quick-Change Filter Adapter Kit for Sony RX100 III - 52mm; Brand: Lensmate; Review: I ordered a kit for the RX100 III and received one for the RX1000 IV, which should be the same. The adapter is easy to install, and the diameter of the ring matches that of the outer lens barrel. I am giving it four stars because I think Lensmate should really add one or two more 52mm adapter rings to the package, even if it requires a price increase of one or two dollars. I already attached a polarizing filter on the included ring, but I also need to use a Raynox DCR-250 macro lens. It will be much more convenient to have an extra adapter ring.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Combo: Boss Adapter plus DBA-02 Desmond 60mm QR Clamp w Level Arca / Bogen 3157N Compatible 3/8" w; Brand: Desmond; Review: I have a Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 tripod with a MH054M0-Q2 ball head. I like the tripod, but I really want to switch to an Arca Swiss type QR plate so that I can easily switch between the heavy Manfrotto and a Sirui travel tripod. This Desmond combo made my wish come true. It's my first Arca Swiss type clamp, and I haven't compared it with the more expensive ones such as the Sunwayfoto MAC-14 or the Hejnar Photo conversion clamp for Manfrotto, but it feels very solid after I installed it on the MH054M0-Q2.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: TechMatte Micro USB to USB Type C Adapter Connector for Galaxy Note 8, S9, S9 Plus, S8, S8 Plus; Brand: TechMatte; Review: I am able to charge my Nexus 6P and transfer files from my computer to the phone with this adapter. No complaints.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: AmazonBasics Circular Polarizer Lens - 58 mm; Brand: AmazonBasics; Review: I replaced my Sony A-mount 70-300mm G lens with a Sony E-mount 70-200mm. I needed a new 72mm polarizer for the 70-200mm, and I wondered if the AmazonBasics was good enough. Since I already had a B+W 62mm Kaesemann Circular Polarizer with Multi-Resistant Coating for the 70-300mm G and a Sigma EX DG 62mm Wide Multi-Coated Circular Polarizer Filter (OLD MODEL) for a Sony 10-18mm, I decided to get a 62mm AmazonBasics to compare with the other two first. To compare the filters I first customized the white balance of my Sony A6000 with a light panel, and then I placed all three filters on the light panel and took a picture. After I imported the attached image into Adobe Lightroom, I took three separate RGB readings for each filter and the panel. The top one in the picture is the AmazonBasics, the bottom left is the B+W, and the bottom right is the Sigma. The average values for each area are: Panel: R 94.17 G 94.17 B 94.17 Amazon: R 78.33 G 78.87 B 77.37 B+W: R 68.87 G 69.60 B 71.73 Sigma: R 72.83 G 73.50 B 74.40 You can tell from these values that the B+W and the Sigma have more blue, and the AmazonBasics has a green tint. Also the AmazonBasics' light transmission is higher than the other two. I reset my A6000 to auto white balance and took some pictures with the 10-18mm and all three filters. I set the aperture to f/8.0 and focal length to 18mm, and I rotated the filters until the longest exposure was achieved, meaning the sky was the darkest and the polarizing effect was maximized. For the same scene the shutter speed for the AmazonBasics was 1/60", and the other two filters used 1/50". When viewing the pictures on a calibrated monitor, the B+W and the Sigma images are almost identical and the blue skies look better. As expected the sky in the AmazonBasics image is not as good, and it's not easy to adjust it in Lightroom to match the other two, but if you don't compare them side by side you probably wouldn't know the difference. In terms of sharpness I can't see any difference. The AmazonBasics has the same thickness as the B+W, so both cause vignetting at the 10mm end. Considering the B+W cost twice as much of the Sigma, I think the Sigma EX DG is the best value for me. If you are a casual shooter who only uses kit lenses and shoots JPEGs, the AmazonBasics is definitely a good value. If you are a more demanding photographer, you probably want a better filter to match your expensive gears.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Dashboard Camera, SplashETech Mini 0806 Dash CamWorld's Smallest Dash Camera W/ Screen Amba A7LA50 + OV4689, HDR, Full HD; Brand: SplashETech; Review: This product was dead on arrival. I have a working Mini 0805, so when my Thinkware F550 died, I bought this 0806 as a replacement. The first time I connected it to the power the blue LED light turned on, but the screen was entirely white and there was no startup sound like the 805. After a few minutes the unit became hot, to the degree that it was uncomfortable to touch. I couldn't reset the camera by pressing the power button. This is going back to the seller.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Spracht Konf-X Buds Noise Cancelling In-Ear Conference Call Headset with Built-In Microphone; Brand: Spracht; Review: I already had a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23 QuietPoint Active Noise-Cancelling In-Ear Headphones, but I still bought this Spracht in a lightning deal just to find out how an unknown brand compares to a name brand. When listening to music with noise cancelling turned off in a quiet room, the two earphones sound about the same. When noise cancelling is turned on in a quiet room without connecting to an audio source, the Audio Technica has a little hiss. I thought the Spracht was better, but I was wrong. With noise cancelling turned on in both earphones, I inserted the Spracht in one ear and the Audio Technica in the other, and then I started my vacuum cleaner. The Spracht seemed to reduce the noise level, but it also reproduced part of the noise as a loud hiss. The Audio Technica doesn't have this problem.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Gariz Leather Skin LS-RX100M3BK for Sony RX100IV RX100III, Black; Brand: Gariz; Review: It feels weird because the edges are not flush with the camera body. It doesn't add much grip, either. I would stay with the Sony AGR2 grip.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: GoNovate G11 Bluetooth Earbud, with 6 Hour Playtime and Magnetic USB; Brand: GoNovate; Review: I have many bluetooth earphones and three of them are the earbud types. They are the Moto Hint+, the Rowkin Bit Charge Single, and this GoNovate G11. Moto Hint+: This one is the biggest of the three. It doesn't sound great, but I got it from eBay, and it was sold as new but came refurbished. After removing it from its charger and putting in in my ear, it automatically turns on when the sensor touches the skin. This "feature" is also its biggest flaw. If you remove it from your ear, after a while it will shut down and won't be able to turn on unless you reactivate it in the charger. This means I have to always carry the charger. Rowkin Bit Charge: This one sounds better than the other two. Its charger is also a battery like the Moto Hint, and you can use it as a power bank to charge other USB devices. It's the least ergonomic one because of its bullet shape. You really need to push it into your ear canal. That causes discomfort but still doesn't prevent it from falling out of my ear. GoNovate G11: This is the most comfortable one. I only use it with the Enhanced SMS & Caller ID+ app on my Android phone to listen to messages and emails. It's good for voice but not music. It sounds harsher and more irritating than the Rowkin when listening to music. Quality is the biggest concern with this product. I first bought the black version, which has been working fine so far. I also bought the khaki one when it became available, but it's DOA. I attached it to the charger and the blue LED turned on for a few seconds and then turned off. I thought it's fully charged, so I turned it on, but it said "Power on. Battery low." I put it back on the charger. Again, the light turned on and then turned off. After one hour it's still not charged.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Gosky Smartphone Capturer for Iphone Smartphones - Three Sides Held the; Brand: Gosky; Review: The design is not flexible enough to fit the Google Pixel XL. Switching between the screw holes or flipping the clamp doesn't help. To align the camera lens with a binocular eyepiece the clamp will have to rest on the phone's volume buttons.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Gosky 1.25 Crystalview Moon Filter for Telescope Eyepiece - Standand 1.25inch Filter Thread - Metal Frame - Optical Glass; Brand: Gosky; Review: The design is not flexible enough to fit the Google Pixel XL. Switching between the screw holes or flipping the clamp doesn't help. To align the camera lens with a binocular eyepiece the clamp will have to rest on the phone's volume buttons.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Gosky Universal Cell Phone Adapter Mount; Brand: Gosky; Review: The design is not flexible enough to fit the Google Pixel XL. Switching between the screw holes or flipping the clamp doesn't help. To align the camera lens with a binocular eyepiece the clamp will have to rest on the phone's volume buttons.; Rating: 1.0/5.0	amazon_Electronics
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Diver 4GB Waterproof MP3 Player with LCD Display and Earphones (Blue); Brand: Diver; Review: Quite honestly one of the best MP3 players around for swimming laps. At first I was concerned that the shuffle mode would get annoying doing my workouts. But honestly it keeps it interesting and lively. Great quality perfect to attach to goggles. Definitely worth you buying!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Amp Wiring Kit \| BOSS Audio KIT-ZERO 10 Gauge Installation Kit; Brand: BOSS Audio Systems; Review: Kinda cheap, especially the speaker wire, and the plastic covering for 12v wire. Still worth price; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: MTX Magnum MB210SP Dual 10" Enclosure/Amp Combo; Brand: MTX; Review: Very heavy, good deep bass, made very well. . Pay another 30 bucks get vented subs tho!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: BOSS Audio AR1500M Car Amplifier – 1500 Watts Max Power, 2/4 Ohm Stable, Class A/B, Monoblock, MOSFET Power; Brand: BOSS Audio Systems; Review: Great great great amp. Gets extremely hot while pushing full range , and when in full range the bass knob doesn't work. But cheap and packs phnch; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: ALTEC VISION SuperPak 2 Pack Computer and Gaming Glasses for Monitor Screen Eye Strain Relief Anti Glare and Non Reflective; Brand: ALTEC VISION; Review: I've bought hundreds of glasses in my life, hold up to ray bans. They are a bit smaller than expected, but heated them up with a hairdryer and no biggie. Look nice and are very sturdy and for the price , a definite no brainer.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Electronics
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Havana Before Castro: When Cuba Was a Tropical Playground; Author: Visit Amazon's Peter Moruzzi Page; Review: After having read "Waiting for Snow in Havana" by Carlos Eire about Cuba just before and when Castro took over, this one really intrigued me. What a loss to the world! Cuba before Castro may have been a little exploited by some factions, but perhaps no more than now. The architecture of all the casinos was really magnificent! I'm really sorry I missed it. It's a very fascinating piece of history....architecturally and politically, and entertainment-wise. A Vegas off the coast of Florida with another-continent flavor.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Learning to Die in Miami: Confessions of a Refugee Boy; Author: Carlos Eire; Review: I adored "Waiting for Snow in Havana". The humor was intoxicating. This book takes on an entirely different tone, however. Eire bares his soul and his painful coping mechanisms to deal with being uprooted from his birth country. It is eye-opening about the plight of refugees in ways I'd never personally dreamed. You can't help but admire this man more and more with each book. What a soul journey he has taken.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Happier Than a Billionaire: Quitting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, and Living the Zero Hour Work Week; Author: Visit Amazon's Nadine Hays Pisani Page; Review: In my opinion, I think Nadine Pisani has a real gift for writing humor. She has a really good sense of humor coupled with a good sense of comic timing in the writing. Not every single line is humorous, but you need a break to breathe! I found this book very funny and very capable of enhancing my mood. I think she's a born writer and I love her blog and I hope she continues to write and do great things! God bless those with a sense of humor!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Life of Pi; Author: Visit Amazon's Yann Martel Page; Review: I found this to be an amazing story. Mysterious, thought-provoking and gratifying. Dealing with the age-old quest of mankind to believe. Believe in something beyond ourselves -- that quality that I suspect may even be in our DNA. Martel takes you on an unexpected journey of survival to unimaginable places and spins a reality of inconceivable fantasy with an ending I was totally unprepared for. Perhaps I was in a coma not to have suspected it, but I was delighted!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Hitman's Guide to Housecleaning; Author: Visit Amazon's Hallgrimur Helgason Page; Review: I found this book very entertaining and amusing. May not be for someone who prefers "Amish romance novels", but he has a delightful originality of sentence structure and I don't mean the "broken English". Clever and funny!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Happier Than A Billionaire: The Sequel; Author: Visit Amazon's Nadine Hays Pisani Page; Review: To be honest, I had just a hint of doubt that this book could be as good as the first. It could have been my mood, but it did seem to start off a tad slower, but definitely made up for it. Especially when we get to the parents' visit. These guys are a book in themselves! I think Nadine gets her sense of humor from her dad. He proved not only to be hysterically funny but a real gem of a father when he came through for her in regard to one star reviews. I think he is right. They're just jealous, frustrated with their own lives and taking it out on someone else in a very cowardly way. (Some guy wrote a scathing review of "Eat, Pray, Love" once that was just as vicious and IRRELEVANT. Who are these hateful people? Never mind. If I meet them only in a book review, that's close enough.) I hope Nadine Pisani will continue to regale us with their adventures/misadventures and her ever deepening wisdom of what life is all about. It doesn't have to be that way for everyone.....so relax and just enjoy the humor and break from your current reality! Or better yet, get a life or BETTER REALITY! As for me, I'm looking forward to the construction of this house! Go Rob!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: On the Rocks; A Willa Cather and Edith Lewis Mystery; Author: Visit Amazon's Sue Hallgarth Page; Review: I found it somewhat boring. The writing was fine, but the plot was unorganized and uninteresting. I was hoping for more.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Their Eyes Were Watching God; Author: Visit Amazon's Zora Neale Hurston Page; Review: I had seen the movie on TV starring Halle Berry some years ago. Somehow it didn't quite move me all that much. (It might now, now that I have read the book, but I'm not so sure.) Reading the book and her eloquent phrasing and how well she writes the vernacular is a touching experience. I think perhaps that Richard Wright did not appreciate the book because he was not a woman. This book is about HOW WOMEN FEEL and survive circumstances over which they have no control. Truth is, it was way ahead of it's time. We all know the politics of racism now, but how much are we in touch with what a female experiences on this damn planet of testosterone. Janie realized that we create our own reality and what the price for that was. Nobody is going to applaud her efforts at self-sufficiency and independence because she's a woman, a 2nd class citizen, who is unwilling to play by someone else's rules. She makes her own rules and unlike the male gender doesn't leave a trail of corpses. And.....she still has a gratifying relationship when she decides to follow her own desires and not those of someone else. I think this Zora Neale Hurston deserves further exploration. I find her thinking very intriguing and very intelligent.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dust Tracks on a Road: An Autobiography (P.S.); Author: Visit Amazon's Zora Neale Hurston Page; Review: I chose this rating because this person possessed such a high level of integrity and individualism. Call me crazy but what other choice is there if one finds oneself not able to fit into one of society's pigeonholes? One can only be who and what one is and Heaven help us to be intelligent and emotionally honest which I believe Zora to have been. I read "Their Eyes" first and was amazed at her eloquence and ability to write in the vernacular so flawlessly without being ingratiating and obsequious. Her personal pride holds this woman up straight! She makes you proud of her without ever having met her! She has lent me a perspective I have never found with other authors (although Alice Walker did an outstanding job!) and a new insight into men. As a black woman, she seems to be especially empathetic to the black man's plight without guilt-tripping the whites. We all know the role the whites played, but how refreshing to be cut some slack. Even as a feminist she accepts responsibility for her own role in her own life. One doesn't get much credit for being a strong individualist. The only reward is having been so.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Guns; Author: Visit Amazon's Stephen King Page; Review: But must rational decisions be so difficult to acquire? It would seem so in this queer ambiguous nation that has stood for the rights of the little man for so long. It breaks your heart.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sycamore Row (The Jake Brigance); Author: Visit Amazon's John Grisham Page; Review: Reading John Grisham is as if one is seated near the fire with a glass of wine and an old trusted, dear friend is relating one of his experiences. His writing is excellent. He takes you where you need to go; backs up the story with enough background information that you don't wonder..."Where did this come from; or what just happened?" He pulls it all together to a satisfactory conclusion, at least editorially speaking. He's honest, sincere and comfortable but NOT boring. HIs books are educational about the law, human nature, personal values and the South. I liked that some of the original characters from Clanton were involved without it being a "sequel" per se. It's a good read. Intelligent and holds your attention to the end. I think he has a real talent for telling a story and I'm glad to know of his work in my lifetime!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The BOOK THIEF; Author: Visit Amazon's Markus Zusak Page; Review: Well, I saw the movie "Death Takes a Holiday" made many years ago; I watched "Meet Joe Black" and really liked it. This book from the perspective of "death" is so tender and sad yet really quite beautiful. It was difficult reading the ending in the waiting room of the dental office where I was waiting for my sister and had tears profusely rolling down my cheeks. A very sweet and endearing story. I commend the imagination to present this old theme of Nazi Germany in such a fresh narrative.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Last Brother: A Novel (Lannan Translation Selection (Graywolf Paperback)); Author: Visit Amazon's Nathacha Appanah Page; Review: What a deed of honor and respect to tell David's story, to share this poignant and heartwrenchiing tale. I read it in one sitting.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Death of Santini: The Story of a Father and His Son; Author: Visit Amazon's Pat Conroy Page; Review: His chronicle of his dysfunctional family and their attempts to deal with it and heal from it should be required reading in psychology courses. So much of what he writes and expresses so beautifully is so very relatable to many of us. The fact that so many abusive people never perceive or realize what they do or its impact on others stands out and knocks me down! It is sooo true. This one man's journey will live on and be scrutinized and analyzed for many lifetimes to come. I've read most of his books and I'll always treasure them. I thank him for this colossal contribution to the human condition and mental health (isn't that an oxymoron - - Mental Health?); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Kiss; Author: Visit Amazon's Kathryn Harrison Page; Review: That this woman chose such a manner to cope with this violation of herself. She did an extraordinary thing writing about this experience with so little self-pity and so much objectivity. This kind of thing can and does do irreparable damage to the psyche of children/women. There's so little awareness of this fact that it's a horrendous tragedy of our culture and society. And yet it is so available to peoples' enlightenment if they would but see and acknowledge and have COMPASSION !; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Lizard Cage: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Karen Connelly Page; Review: Well written and highly informative about Burma! Captures the despair of the child and circumstances as well as Burma's dilemma.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Rachel Joyce Page; Review: for it's content, depth and insight. And humor! The impulsive first step that led Harold into a whole new world and new perception of life speaks to all of us about expectations, regrets and the validity of memories.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Thunder and Lightning: Cracking Open the Writer's Craft; Author: Visit Amazon's Natalie Goldberg Page; Review: Natalie makes me think I could someday WRITE ! Well, I'll keep reading and journaling and hoping that some day "over the rainbow" it will come true.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: How the Light Gets In: Writing as a Spiritual Practice; Author: Visit Amazon's Pat Schneider Page; Review: But it turned out to be so much more! This is a book about healing. A book about healing shame; undeserved shame; about healing from the abuse of an unstable, mentally ill parent. Pat Schneider explores self knowledge, forgiveness, emotional growth, and the meaning of spirit. She offers insight on how to pursue a thought, a line of thinking to conclusive depth in order to resolve buried emotional/psychic pain. All a work in progress. I applaud her courage, dignity, generosity, integrity, gentleness and kindness. This is a soul working hard with spirit. Someone I'd like to know.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Misremembered Man; Author: Visit Amazon's Christina McKenna Page; Review: The layout of the story was easy to follow but that did no make it boring. The tale was tender and poignant and addressed issues of great importance to today. I as very taken with it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: A Day at the Beach; Author: Visit Amazon's Geoffrey Wolff Page; Review: What la-la land have I been living in to imagine it just this easy drifting while someone else does all the work! Wolff is a very honest writer. Of course, I remember "This Boy's Life" by his brother and starring a very young Leonardo di Caprio. Wasn't aware Tobias had such a helpful older brother. Good memoir read.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Autopsy of a Suicidal Mind; Author: Visit Amazon's Edwin S. Shneidman Page; Review: Intriguing how complex the mind is especially when the thinking is off center. Are ALL suicides caused by this by-polar phenomena? How sad that no matter how accomplished and loved an individual is, this person can have such skewered thinking about themselves. Doesn't answer why but what then really does?; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Bean Trees; Author: Visit Amazon's Barbara Kingsolver Page; Review: One thing that became apparent to me was that one doesn't have to "bear" a child in order to have feelings of nurturance and protectiveness rise to the surface with surprising ferocity. That's what the book did for me. Wonder of wonders. Barbara Kingsolver did a lovely job of writing!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The All of It; Author: Visit Amazon's Jeannette Haien Page; Review: I enjoyed this book a great deal. The plot revolves around individuals placed in a very dark setting endeavoring to survive and come out on the other side, if at all possible. The reasons we make certain choices are always so much more complex than at first observation. The complexity of human nature is always meaty and inspiring material for all of us to explore. I liked this book very much.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hero Cat; Author: Visit Amazon's Eileen Spinelli Page; Review: But I do recall this story in the news. I hadn't realized so much time had elapsed! It's a wonderful story about mother love and sacrifice and most of all it's true. The illustration of the cat's face and particularly the eyes is one of the best, most remarkable renditions I've ever seen. Quite remarkable! I swear my cat's irises look just like that! Wonderful, wonderful tale. God bless Scarlet wherever she is.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Wilderness; Author: Visit Amazon's Lance Weller Page; Review: Able Truman is someone who comes alive for you because he is so human; flawed yet principled, insensitive yet tender. This truly IS a book that will linger in your soul. The writing is poetry. Bravo! Mr. Weller! Well done! Well done!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Labor Day: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Joyce Maynard Page; Review: At the risk of being redundant, this author is quite a storyteller! How wise to know how attractive dysfunctional people find each other; how depression disengages judgement . That being said, the characters charm you, the boy holds the perspective and Frank makes it credible. The mother draws your compassion. A really sweet story. I loved it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Elephant Keeper; Author: C. Nicholson; Review: I personally love elephants and so does this author. A very well-developed, intriguing story. Lots of depth of feeling and compassion for a different species. Beautiful.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Drama: An Actor's Education; Author: Visit Amazon's John Lithgow Page; Review: While John Lithgow is highly intelligent and entertaining, I was disappointed in his lack of character and awareness toward the women who loved him. That isn't to say that he didn't realize some of that himself, but wow. The book does hold your interest and he IS an excellent writer. But it seems that some of the most insensitive people can be some of the most entertaining and talented writers. Why is that?; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Silver Linings Playbook: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's Matthew Quick Page; Review: If you really like football and the Philadelphia Eagles, it might draw you in more, but I was not so deeply touched by this man's inability to control his rage. His father didn't exactly set a good example, the mother was an enabler......is this an instruction manuel for psychotherapists? The writing was quality, I just didn't find the story interesting.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Witches of Dredmoore Hollow; Author: Riford Mckenzie; Review: I like to read literature for young adults because I enjoy whimsy. These characters were amusing and the story held your interest by merely being unpredictable.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rules for Virgins: Wherein Magic Gourd Advises Young Violet on How to Become a Popular Courtesan While Avoiding; Author: Visit Amazon's Amy Tan Page; Review: but Amy Tan was spot on with this one. Not much changes in the world between men and women. I guess because men and women don't actually change that much. Why is that? She doesn't even try to answer that one, but she tells the virgin exactly what is expected of her.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Immortal Collection (A Saga of the Ancient Family); Author: Visit Amazon's Eva García Sáenz Page; Review: but the story was a bit of a disappointment. It didn't really go anywhere. Another reviewer called it "chick lit" which offended me at first, but after I read it, I realized that it was for all it's erudite information about museum content, trivial romance. At least they didn't suck blood.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Relatively Dead (Relatively Dead Mysteries Book 1) - Kindle edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Sheila Connolly Page; Review: Sheila Connolly has succeeded in writing a romantic novel with taste! But she has introduced a perspective of the paranormal that I've not seen before bringing to mind greater possibilities in the evolvement of humanity. Meaning there might be as many interpretations as there are individuals as humans progress in consciousness. Phew! Did I just say that? What does THAT mean? Well don't let it scare you. It's an entertaining read with no violence or explicit sex. Just interesting with down to earth awareness of the male/female relationship and a love of history. Enjoy!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: In One Person: A Novel; Author: Visit Amazon's John Irving Page; Review: Well done! Elegantly handled when there were so many ways it could have gone. Even the meeting with his father was gently realistic and not as disappointing as I at first thought. We as humans have such a long way to go to have compassion and God-like love for one another. Why do we make it so difficult? (and I intentionally made the God word lower case but my kindle wouldn't let me. What do you make of that?) We are so embroiled in "how things ought to be" that we won't let things be as they are and accept and enjoy. Bravo John Irving!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Writing and Wrestling with the Heart; Author: Visit Amazon's Jan Karon Page; Review: Jan Karon has the ability to preach without preaching! I never expected to get hooked on these books. After all, I am an intelligent, independent, free-thinking, strong-willed woman. I have made it pretty much all on my own and I am proud of what I have accomplished. Unfortunately, strong-willed, independent women are not appreciated....merely tolerated at best. These books have reminded me that I didn't do it all alone. God was there beside me, behind me and pulling me forward. What He has in store for me next is the new adventure of a promise kept. You see, I'm not one of those Bible-reading, quoting, lets-pray-about-it kind of people. I have a family full of "seekers" who have tried to sway me this way and that. I've held my own counsel. I think one's spiritual side is one's own business. It's private and personal. These books are about a private man who struggles with "the right thing to do". This man has a conscience, He has integrity. His courage fails him at times, but he muddles through. If you are a thinking person, you can identify with this man. He respects and admires women which is entirely refreshing! Jan Karon has found her pulpit, her niche. I'm so happy for her! I'm still looking for mine. Perhaps I should follow her lead. God bless Jan Karon!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: These High, Green Hills (The Mitford Years); Author: Visit Amazon's Jan Karon Page; Review: Soul soothing and inherently optimistic. Can't read just one. What a gracious and generous offering to her fellow man! God bless Jan Karon.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Navigating Early; Author: Visit Amazon's Clare Vanderpool Page; Review: A wonderful story because it is for adults about children as much as or perhaps more than about youth for young readers. This is a genre of which I've only recently become aware and more's the pity. This woman is an inspiring clever writer! I can't wait to start "Moon Over Manifest"! That's "inspiring ly; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Fur Person (Gift Edition); Author: Visit Amazon's May Sarton Page; Review: That cats deserve and require respect then you will never understand this beautiful book. Written with depth and a profoundly insightful understanding of the wonderful nature of cats, this story is a joy to read! I loved it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ru; Author: Kim Thuy; Review: Eloquently expressed eliciting volumes of colour, texture and emotion. Poetry most exquisite. She paints the refugee experience with devastating reality yet with the assurance of survival. What a talent!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The One and Only Ivan; Author: Katherine Applegate; Review: This story has all the necessary elements. A gentle protagonist in an unhappy predicament needing to see someone else to mirror it back to him. Inspiration to do the seemingly impossible. Ah, the gentle giants. I recommend this to be read to children you love. It offers hope, joy, peace.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Revenant: The Bestselling Book That Inspired the Award-Winnning Movie; Author: Visit Amazon's Michael Punke Page; Review: Some complained of the author's writing style/ability. I could not find fault because I felt he wrote rather well. I found it a piece of good storytelling. I found it thoughtful, insightful, realistic and inspiring in the protagonist's desire to survive. Revenge may not be considered admirable but it is motivational. When one is well.....well, then one can rethink one's goals. The historical background and descriptions of the country at that time were interesting and educational. I enjoyed the book very much.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The 19th Wife; Author: Visit Amazon's David Ebershoff Page; Review: Very educational and enlightening. Explains some of the reticence of some people that I know who have converted. Disturbing too when one thinks about it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Books in My Life (New Directions Paperbook); Author: Visit Amazon's Henry Miller Page; Review: It isn't Henry Miller's writing I don't care for, it's the transcription. It is as if English was not the first language of the individual. What gives? No editing?; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Two Old Women, 10th Anniversary Edition: An Alaskan Legend of Betrayal, Courage and Survival; Author: Visit Amazon's Velma Wallis Page; Review: Just the sort story that picks you up, dusts you off and gets you started all over again! This book speaks to the human spirit and the capacity to survive when things are tough regardless of age , gender (maybe more so) and bodily circumstance. DO NOT UNDER ESTIMATE US or yourselves. Velma Wallis writes with clarity, simplicity and beautifully. Thank you for this wonderful story!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: West With the Night (Virago Travellers); Author: Visit Amazon's Beryl Markham Page; Review: A beautifully written book. For someone who grew up in such a non-traditional way...no mother, growing up amongst men, horses and local natives; learning unusual languages. She grew up believing she could do anything and she did! How utterly freeing is that? I envy her yet I imagine it was not all fun and games. Life just isn't. Still she showed remarkable resourcefulness and grit. A great read, very well written, a poem. I loved it!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, the Pearl of Great Price; Author: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day; Review: Not my cup on tea.; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Lucky Man (Random House Large Print); Author: Visit Amazon's Michael J. Fox Page; Review: I found new respect and admiration for a talented actor as a mature, evolving human being discovering new depth and awareness in himself that I suspect he never conceived. Talk about soul growth.....Bravo!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: PEOPLE OF THE BOOK; Author: Visit Amazon's Geraldine Brooks Page; Review: This was an interesting description of a precious text. An imaginative "filling in the blanks" of a codecs history. Enthralling!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Out on the Porch Wall Calendar 2017; Author: Visit Amazon's Workman Publishing Page; Review: My favorite wall calendar because the "porch" is my favorite place in all the world. And if you have a lovely view, you're in heaven.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: News of the World; Author: Visit Amazon's Paulette Jiles Page; Review: A study of personal integrity, patience and loving kindness. Interesting historical setting, vivid descriptions of a time and place and the amazing courage of a mere child.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: American Pastoral; Author: Visit Amazon's Philip Roth Page; Review: How timeless. This author is amazing! A compassionate, deeply explored emotional insight into an utterly devastating circumstance leaving one breathless.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: I Married a Communist: American Trilogy (2); Author: Visit Amazon's Philip Roth Page; Review: One can surely recognize his background and talents. Oh what talent! I'm speechless with a brain brimming with words! Thanks; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Garden of Evening Mists; Author: Anna Bentinck Tan Twan Eng; Review: Not only historically fascinating but intelligent and reflective. I plan on reading his first novel very soon. This author has a gift for expression.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Her First American; Author: Lore Segal; Review: Reminds me of Woody Allen; not to take anything away from Ms. Legal. A story about alcoholism as much as race. No solutions unfortunately. There never are with these two problems. Great book, however!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Chickens in the Road: An Adventure in Ordinary Splendor; Author: Visit Amazon's Suzanne McMinn Page; Review: This story wasn't exactly what I was expecting which now when I think about it was probably what her intention may have been.....maybe not. Had to find out how and if she resolved this dilemma! Ms. McMinn has an easy-going, natural; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Our Souls at Night (Vintage Contemporaries); Author: Visit Amazon's Kent Haruf Page; Review: Why can't people live and let live? This is why I have no regrets not having children. Why do they do such things to their parents?; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Liars' Club: A Memoir; Author: Visit Amazon's Mary Karr Page; Review: Uncanny how she does it. She knows how to keep one interested, longing for the next surprise. A tender portrayal of a family's dysfunction full of love and forgiveness. Smashing good!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Postcards; Author: E Annie Proulx; Review: I hate that I cancelled this order MADE BY MISTAKE immediately and according to my. "orders" I received a refund, BUT I was billed for it on my last paper invoice. The customer service line is busy (things are tough in Tai Wan or wherever...India perhaps?) and I am frustrated and ticked off that you are screwing with my credit card balance!; Rating: 1.0/5.0 Title: Drinking: A Love Story; Author: Visit Amazon's Caroline Knapp Page; Review: A profoundly remarkable and enlightening discourse on the disease of alcoholism. Knapp's painfully blunt honesty reveals her deepest and darkest fears. The story shows the insidious seduction and possession of one's life by this pervasive "social" pastime. It's a story of courage and hope of which she should have been very, very proud. The processes of looking inward come at tremendous cost but the reward is soul growth. God bless her soul and I'm most grateful for this sharing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Boy's Life; Author: Visit Amazon's Robert R. McCammon Page; Review: Well written and just the right amount of sentimentality. We all miss our early days of exploration and imagination and believing in magic. Those days when good triumphs over evil and all is right with the world.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Good Thief; Author: Visit Amazon's Hannah Tinti Page; Review: The comparisons to Dickens, Cooper, Robert Louis Stevenson are not far fetched. This woman has a nostalgic gift of storytelling in a very classic sense.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Last Bus to Wisdom: A Novel (Two Medicine Country); Author: Visit Amazon's Ivan Doig Page; Review: Will charm the socks right off you! Would make a great movie. I am impressed. If I were a teacher in grade school, it would be required reading - a surprising treat. Loved it, can you tell?; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Last Bus to Wisdom; Author: Visit Amazon's Ivan Doig Page; Review: Will charm the socks right off you! Would make a great movie. I am impressed. If I were a teacher in grade school, it would be required reading - a surprising treat. Loved it, can you tell?; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Whistling Past the Graveyard; Author: Visit Amazon's Susan Crandall Page; Review: Perhaps it is the child's point of view that clarifies. Ms. Crandall has a gift of insight and a talent with voice. Bravo!; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge Camping Hammock and Tent (Rainfly and Bug Net Included); Brand: Lawson Hammock; Review: Great product. Comfortable to sleep in, easy to set up and take down. Rainfly works well and is also easy to set up quickly and take down. This product is also very easy to fold up and fit back into the carrying bag as well. Best sleep I've had camping in South Florida. Bring a sleeping pad or mini air mattress for added comfort/warmth.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: NuoYa001 Archery Fletched Fiberglass Nock Arrows (6 Piece), Large; Brand: NuoYa001; Review: Cheap, good for training. Cheap so low quality, first day out one of the arrows hit the target and split; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mossy Oak Sidekick Hip Quiver; Brand: Mossy Oak Hunting Accessories; Review: You get what you pay for with this one. It's cheap, it's ugly, it works. Instead of using it I've just started holding my extra arrows. I don't like any current models of quivers; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: OMP Mountain Man 2-Strap Ventilated Leather Suede Arm Guard; Brand: OMP; Review: Completely functional, fits large forearms comfortably. The leather is nice quality and that portion is able to mold to the shape of your arm as well. Great buy; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Indera Men's Icetex Cotton Outside/Fleeced Polyester with Silvadur Inside Pant; Brand: Indera; Review: Kept me extra warm for skiing; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: CAMTOA Outdoor Camping Sleeping Bag,Ultra-light Envelope Sleeping Bag for Travel Hiking - Spring, Summer & Fall Waterproof Sleeping Bag; Brand: CAMTOA; Review: Easy to pack back up. It's light, it's thin, it's small. Don't buy it for cold weather. I like it for my bugout bag.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Sports_and_Outdoors
Given the interaction history of a user with products as follows: Title: Another: Complete Collection; Brand: Greg Ayres; Review: Its great anime collection; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: I Couldn't Become a Hero, So I Reluctantly Decided to Get a Job Complete Collection; Brand: Keisuke Koumoto; Review: Great dvd and shipping was awsome too; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Street Fighter; Brand: Mike Moh; Review: Great movie; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Bride is a Mermaid: Complete S.A.V.E.; Brand: Juli Erickson; Review: Great dvd,everything is perfect; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Collector anglais; Brand: ; Review: Great movie deal; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Engaged to the Unidentified: Complete Collection; Brand: Eriko Matsui; Review: Great product and service.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pain & Gain; Brand: ; Review: Great seller the product was as good as described.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_Movies_and_TV
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: 52 Small Changes: One Year to a Happier, Healthier You; Author: Visit Amazon's Brett Blumenthal Page; Review: Read this while waiting for the plane to get deiced on the San Antonio runway. Very fast read. Several items repeated or were partials of one another.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Say Goodbye for Now; Author: Visit Amazon's Catherine Ryan Hyde Page; Review: Read this on the plane. Very easy and compelling read. I sort of expected more of the dog in the storyline. Enjoyed it all the same.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fire Stick: The Ultimate Guide to your Amazon Fire TV Stick [Booklet]; Author: Visit Amazon's Justin Turner Page; Review: This gave concise instructions on the how to use and, to some degree, how to make some tweaks to the FS.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Void of Muirwood (Covenant of Muirwood); Author: Visit Amazon's Jeff Wheeler Page; Review: I enjoyed the first two books more so than the last of this trilogy. Kishion, Collier and Tayt could have had some more development with their characters. It was a good read.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Reign of Madness (King's Dark Tidings Book 2) eBook; Author: Visit Amazon's Kel Kade Page; Review: I did not expect much from this book series after reading the first book in which Rez could do no wrong. The 2nd book was funny and where other authors would just say "a choice was made and all agreed", Sir Kade expands has the characters go through and reason out a decision. This was new. I had not seen such details previously by other authors. Still, having Rez be indestructible was a bit monotonous. I hope the 3rd book exposes some weakness.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Super Sales on Super Heroes; Author: Visit Amazon's William D. Arand Page; Review: I didn't know what to expect from this book. It was a very fast and fun read. I enjoyed Andrea and the Others the best out of all the characters. I look forward to reading the next book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: 101 Unuseless Japanese Inventions: The Art of Chindogu; Author: Kenji Kawakami; Review: The inventions featured in this book were invented for the sake of the book - they are not actual products for sale in Japan. There are a lot of wierd and interesting products for sale in Japan (e.g. paper shredders for kids, or water tanks to place in front of your TV for video fish), and a catalogue of them would make a great souvenir, but don't buy this book if that is what you are expecting. The items featured here are funny and creative nonetheless.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: 36 Views of Mount Fuji: On Finding Myself in Japan; Author: Visit Amazon's Cathy N. Davidson Page; Review: I have shared many of the sensations she describes in this book: the way the most mundane conversations can seem like a great accomplishment, because they have been conducted in Japanese, for example. The impulse to speak Japanese whenever you try to speak any foreign language. The feeling that you are "becoming Japanese." Ms. Davidson does not sugar-coat life in Japan whatsoever, and in fact a major theme of the book is explaining why she doesn't live there. I would give it 5 stars except that for a short book, it is a little hard to get through. Some of the observations on life, death, marriage, and photography seem a little sophomoric or naive. But highly recommended nonetheless; it would be a great book to pack on an extended vacation in Japan.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Look into Japan (Japan in Your Pocket) (No. 1); Author: Japan Travel Bureau; Review: This book is one of a series of books that I first saw in an English-language bookstore in Tokyo at the end of a long vacation in Japan. I bought one of each to bring home, and now I see they are available from Amazon.com. These are far and away the best guidebooks to life in Japan. Great illustrations, very fun to read. Do not leave home without them!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Tuttle Kanji Cards; Author: Alexander Kask; Review: I am especially lazy in my study of Kanji and bought both sets because I am desperate for any help I can get at any cost (I also own a Canon WordTank for example). If I weren't so lazy I would just make my own flashcards. The cards themselves are smaller than I had imagined. I needed both sets to find all of the first 100 Kanji taught in first year Japanese at Harvard (although I think 96 of these were in the first set). The cards do not have Kana to identify the Kanji, and what is worse uses (I think) Hepburn romanization, not the system used in Jorden and Chaplin that I am more familiar with, and is more logical. In other words they say "chi" and "ti". In any case, I would much prefer that they didn't use romanization at all, as I also need all the kana practice I can get too!; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: I Will Bear Witness: A Diary of the Nazi Years, 1942-1945; Author: Visit Amazon's Victor Klemperer Page; Review: After reading both volumes in English, I cannot think of anything I ever read on any subject that I found more interesting. I have read far more depressing accounts of the Holocaust (for example Alexander Donat's great "The Holocaust Kingdom" which I also highly recommend though more as a piece of Holocaust literature), but to me Klemperer's diaries are much more profound than "just another survivor's story". What distinguishes Klemperer's work is first of all that he is a great writer - he was also, I think, something of a hypochondriac, and extremely sensitive, so that events that might have gone unremarked by someone less perceptive or less articulate are described brilliantly, in real-time, as they occur. For example, when he remarks that the authorities have asked for a complete inventory of all their possessions, and he wonders to himself why they would want this, but matter-of-factly tells the Nazis what is his and what belongs to his Aryan wife. Klemperer is inspiring in the way he describes his determination to complete his survey of French Literature even as all his possessions are taken and long after he could ever hope to find a publisher in Nazi Germany. Some readers may find his literary discussions boring, but I personally found it particularly fascinating to read his comments on "The Forsythe Saga", for example. There is enough material in these books to form the basis of a semester-long undergraduate course. In this respect I would compare it to the "Tale of Genji" or "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions". I hope that college students will write term papers on themes in Klemperer's memoirs for years to come. It would be fascinating to trace Klemperer's relationship with and attitude towards any one of a number of people described in his diaries. I have recently managed to buy the original German edition ... as well as an abridged version in German for young readers. I would love to see the abridged version published in English and I would [love to see] a side-by-side bilingual edition. The publishers could also have included more photographs (there is one photograph on the dust jacket of one of the English-language volumes that is not included the bound text). If there is ever a deluxe edition of this work published it would certainly be worth buying.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Soldat: Reflections of a German Soldier, 1936-1949; Author: Visit Amazon's Siegfried Knappe Page; Review: I read this book shortly after it was first published and recall it now as I read "German Boy" by Wolfgang Samuel. "Soldat" is an excellent account of an "ordinary german's" experiences as a soldier in World War II. The parts I particularly remember are his accounts of pre-War ski trips with his friends, and his transition from a school boy to a member of the Wehrmacht - how he fought with such efficiency against African troops in France, and how his pre-War training prepared him for fighting.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: German Boy: A Child in War; Author: Visit Amazon's Wolfgang W. E. Samuel Page; Review: I knew a man once who had served as a Sergeant in the British occupation forces in Germany after World War II. As one who majored for a time in German Literature and studied in Munich in the mid-Seventies, I had imagined this would have been an interesting time to be in Germany and was surprised when he spoke of it as a very depressing experience for him personally. After reading "German Boy" I understand why he felt that way. Until I read this book I never really understood what immediate post-war Germany was like for the natives. Before reading "German Boy" my images of post-war Germany were mostly formed from reading Heinrich Boell novels and watching German film productions such as "Heimat" and "Wir Wunderkinder". I had imagined somehow that as soon as even the Russians and certainly the British and Americans came to liberate the German people, the war was over for them, and prosperity followed rapidly. Samuels shows in detail why for him and many people like him, the war did not end until really the Berlin Airlift and currency reform in 1949 brought a relative prosperity to at least his area of Germany. For example, for about three years, from age 9 to 12, he basically wore the same clothes. During this time he did not wear underwear until his Mother's future husband, an American GI, gave him a pair in 1949. This is a very adult book written from the point-of-view of a pre-teen. One of the major themes of the story is how his mother was forced to sell her body to feed her family. He tells the story from the point of view of a boy who does not really understand exactly what sex is. That understood, I think this would be an inspirational book for any 12-year-old boy, and I am going to encourage my own son to read it next.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: High Stakes, No Prisoners: A Winner's Tale of Greed and Glory in the Internet Wars; Author: Charles Ferguson; Review: Very entertaining book: a must read if you have ever been subject to the AMT upon exercising your ISOs, or have worked in the software industry, especially in Massachusetts. The descriptions of the Venture Capital business are extremely informative. I burst out in laughter twice when reading about the shenanigans of his CEO. On other occasions the author seems cruel: do we really need to know that Microsoft wanted to fire his VP of Engineering but that they gave him a meaningless job in Redmond instead, just to avoid the hassle? Aside from the personal anecdotes, much of the industry commentary is sophomoric. The author actually seems to think that having a PhD from MIT is an impressive credential. The book reads like a very long article from Upside magazine and appears to have been written with as much care: I noticed two typographical errors in my hardback edition (pages 169 and 320).; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Memoirs of a Geisha Uk; Author: Visit Amazon's Arthur Golden Page; Review: Everyone I know who has started reading this book has found that they just can't put it down. I wasn't going to bother reviewing it (because it has all been said before), but if nothing else let me echo the other 1500+ reviews: THIS IS A GREAT BOOK!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Italy Fever: 14 Ways to Satisfy Your Love Affair with Italy; Author: Visit Amazon's Darlene Marwitz Page; Review: This slim volume should have been a nice little personal website and I suppose makes a nice gift for the right person but is not much of a book. There is something embarassingly amateurish about the book that nearly raises it to the level of camp. The author has never lived in Italy, does not speak the language, doesn't seem to know any Italians personally, and does not appear to have ever experienced the most obvious way to "satisfy your love affair with Italy" (or if she has, doesn't want her husband to know about it). Italophiles who don't really know the country might enjoy this book. It is not exactly harmful, and in its own naive way rather charming and entertaining. It is fun for example, to see which "Italian" movies immediately come to mind but don't make her list ("Miracle in Milan" and "The Comfort of Strangers" are two that I don't see her mention).; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook; Author: Visit Amazon's Joshua Piven Page; Review: This is an important book that should be read by all people who can read English. My only quibble with it is that it gives directions for escaping from quicksand, without explaining that quicksand is itself a myth. Nevertheless, if I am wrong, and there really is such a thing as quicksand, at least now I know how to survive it. Finding oneself confronted with a mythological danger is indeed a worst-case scenario, after all. I personally found the instructions for surviving a malfunctioning parachute to be the most valuable: I now know that if I am approached in mid-air by someone without a parachute that I should think twice about helping them, as the added weight is likely to break my arms when I pull my ripcord, and likely to break my legs when we land.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Iberia: Spanish Travels and Reflections; Author: Visit Amazon's James A. Michener Page; Review: I took this book on my 10-day trip to Spain. Though I did not read it cover-to-cover, I enjoyed reading passages about places I had seen or events I had read about. It is a very dated account of Spain, but in many ways that is part of its charm. He refers to the Republicans in the Civil War on occasion as the "Reds" and at times seems to have swallowed a Racion of Franco propoganda in one gulp. I found his description of the events of the siege of Toledo quite telling: he admits parenthetically that his account is based on one particular right-wing book and that many of the facts he had subsequently learned were apparently a Fascist myth.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Worst Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Travel; Author: Visit Amazon's Joshua Piven Page; Review: The publishers chose to produce this book in the same form-factor as the original "worst-case scenario handbook" which from a marketing standpoint makes sense, but this would have been more useful if it were the size of a standard passport and thus could fit inside a money belt, for example. Also, it could have been printed on lighter stock paper to make it more travel-friendly. The advice on what to do if abducted by space aliens is certainly appropriate to a worst-case scenario but makes me question the authors' sincerity. The first handbook's strongest point was that it could be taken entirely seriously; describing how to deal with space aliens struck me as a little over the top.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Soldiers' Tale: Bearing Witness to a Modern War; Author: Samuel Hynes; Review: Reads like a very long, tedious history term paper. He wrote his outline, he did the required reading, and he slogs through everything he read. For a short book I found it very very hard to finish, but it's a good source for other books that sound interesting, some of the ones he is writing about. The concept of "war in the head" being formed by the books and movies soldiers watched growing up is useful. Some peculiar opinions make it interesting and memorable, for example, he mentions twice that World War I is "our favorite war." News to me. Also, that all the dope-smoking in Viet Nam is a myth traceable to some articles in Esquire Magazine. Who knew? At least two typographical errors in the text.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Modern Classics Goodbye To All That (Penguin Modern Classics); Author: Visit Amazon's Robert Graves Page; Review: It is one of the regrets of my life that I had not read this book until I was nearly 50-years-old. This is the extremely entertaining and amusing autobiography of the young Robert Graves, founder of the Royal Albert Society. Incidentally, Graves served in the Royal Welch Fusiliers, not the "Royal Welsh" - it is inconceivable that anyone who has actually read this book would not know this, as it is a major theme of the work.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Doing Battle: The Making of a Skeptic; Author: Visit Amazon's Paul Fussell Page; Review: Somewhat by chance, I read this book immediately after reading Robert Graves' "Goodbye to All That" which I had read immediately after Samuel Hynes' "The Soldiers' Tale". I knew that Fussell would take inspiration from Graves but it wasn't until the end of this book that I discovered that he knows Samuel Hynes professionally. Readers looking for a contrarian view of World War II should read Fussell's Wartime, one of my favorite books. This is more of a personal autobiography which I enjoyed for what it is. As it happens I enjoy reading about blood and guts but also about Poetics, so this is (also) my cup of tea. He doesn't really get in gear until he gets into the war. He could have added a lot more detail about growing up; he has a tendency to tell what his childhood was like rather than showing us, but the stuff about the poor training of the American infantry in World War II is really informative. I also find it interesting to read what it was like to get a PhD in English at Harvard after the War, and I wish he had actually gone into more detail about this, but that's just me. I am a little surprised that he didn't add some ghost stories here and there and more references to famous people, like Prime Ministers and famous poets.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Sleeping Dogs Don't Lay: Practical Advice For The Grammatically Challenged; Author: Visit Amazon's Richard Lederer Page; Review: This is not really a book about grammar; for example, if you misuse the word "literally" or "penultimate" because who don't know what it means, well, bob's your uncle, but you are not struggling with grammar. The book has a lot of examples like these, but doesn't address many of the really difficult grammatical mistakes that I make and that I hear. I am extremely surprised, for example, that the author does not mention the use of "Fred and I" when "Fred and me" should be used, in for example "Jane played golf with Fred and me". Strangely, the author does mention the use of "myself" in place of "me" (thus, "Jane played golf with Fred and myself") but seems to think people say "myself" because they feel it pretentious to say "me". I believe they say "myself" because they are not sure if "me" or "I" is correct. Maybe it's just I, but me hear people say "with Fred and I" all the time now, and it's driving I crazy, believe you myself.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Ciao, America!: An Italian Discovers the U.S.; Author: Visit Amazon's Beppe Severgnini Page; Review: This is an interesting reading for italophiles. I would rate the book higher except that the hardbound volume is padded with numerous blank pages and title pages (two separate pages that say nothing but "Ciao Italia" for example), so I would recommend waiting for the paperback edition. Severgnini's impressions of America are interesting if not profound. Not a lot of detail really. At least a couple of his observations I now see are typical of the Italian world-view, things I thought were specific to people I know personally. For example, he mentions that the native Americans (Washingtonians) are quick to shed their winter clothes in the middle of a winter warm spell, but he and other Italians would never think to wear spring clothing out of season. He is appalled that Americans cannot spell, and lists two pages of mispellings of his own name, which most Americans will not find remarkable. Nor will Americans be surprised that journalists in the USA don't know Italian. The book suffers a little bit from a narrow view of the U.S. based on living for one year in Washington, D.C. A lot of what he describes as typical american life will strike Americans as "inside the beltway" stuff. He even overestimates the significance of the National Spelling Bee, which most Americans think of as a kind of camp event, presumably because (as we all know) it is held in Washington. But the wrong impressions, of which there are few, make for fun reading. There really isn't a cult of people who like to eat Spam, nor is it really an integral part of American cuisine. On the other hand, his observations are often right on, for example he truly understands what sort of people gorge themselves (and smoke) at a house of pancakes.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: A Season With Verona: Travels Around Italy in Search of Illusion, National Characters; Author: Visit Amazon's Tim Parks Page; Review: I happened to buy this book at Heathrow on the way to a 3-week vacation in Italy. I have never read any of Tim Parks' books before and don't know much about soccer (I am an american) but really enjoyed reading this book regardless. I could not put it down, which is saying a lot when you consider the distractions while on vacation in Italy. The book is a little odd in the way that it ignores "The Miracle of Castel Di Sangro" and tries to be something other than the McGinniss book, which I am really looking forward to reading. Parks tries hard to convince himself that a book about the players' lives would not be interesting. The author also seems to struggle with his allegiance to a group of fans who are notoriously racist, reminding us for example that he has taught his son not to taunt the black players. The book is written in "real-time" as a diary and throughout much of it Parks searches for a theme, trying to decide what kind of book he is writing, about the fans, the players, sports as a substitute for religion. Ultimately what makes this book interesting is that it is about Italy.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Vienna (Eyewitness Travel Guides); Author: Visit Amazon's Stephen Brook Page; Review: I think one of the reasons I did not particularly care for Vienna was that I was trying to use this guidebook. It seemed to me that we were constantly crossing boundaries in the book's map of the city, which made it very confusing and not very convenient. My biggest gripe with the book however is that the index is printed in a very small and faint font, making it extremely difficult to read, for no sensible reason.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Masters of Death: The SS-Einsatzgruppen and the Invention of the Holocaust; Author: Visit Amazon's Richard Rhodes Page; Review: The book reads like it was constructed from thousands of individual index cards. Sudden shifts in focus. Occasional interjections "here's something almost no one else has noticed..." Themes introduced and then dropped. Since it does not appear that Richard Rhodes has done original research in German, Polish, or Russian, the bibliography is a good starting point for those interested in doing their own holocaust research in English.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Cap: The Price of a Life; Author: Visit Amazon's Roman Frister Page; Review: This is a fascinating work of fiction undoubtedly based on a great deal of real-life experience, or if you prefer, it is an autobiographical work with a few fantastic anecdotes included. Like all holocaust survivor tales, it includes numerous near misses and miraculous lucky breaks. People who survived ghetto life, concentration camps and death marches to write about their experiences were the exceptions, and invariably their stories include such amazing incidents. However, a few incidents read like pure wishful fantasy. I do not believe for example that Roman Frister actually snatched his girlfriend as she emerged from her marriage ceremony and drove her off for a three-day tryst in the mountains, before returning her to her groom... Ultimately the fact that his narrative seeks to define its own reality is what makes the book very interesting. The book is about what defines the self, what memory means, what is real, and what, if anything, really matters. The book reminds me in this way of Robert Musil's "Man Without Qualities."; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The 'Sopranos' Family Cookbook; Author: Visit Amazon's Allen Rucker Page; Review: This is a hilarious book for fans of the Sopranos and, perhaps surprisingly, an actually rather good Southern Italian cookbook too. If you or anybody you know was born in Avellino you will recognize the recipes as authentic and good. We made the Veal Picatta substituting chicken for the Veal last night and it was excellent. Can't wait to find a job so I can afford to buy some veal!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lies: And the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair and Balanced Look at the Right; Author: Visit Amazon's Al Franken Page; Review: This important work was an instant classic when it was first released in 2003. Though better known today for introducing the phrase "kidding on the square" to the English language, it remains a compelling read even months after it first burst upon the literary and political scene. Like Robert Graves' "Goodbye to All That", which is resembles, "Lies" will undoubtedly be released in a boxed edition by the Folio Society within 50 years of the author's death, but is well worth owning in trade hardbound until then.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Microsoft Visual C# .NET Step by Step--Version 2003 (Step by Step Developer); Author: Visit Amazon's John Sharp Page; Review: For some reason Amazon seems to think that two different titles: Visual C++ .Net: Step by Step: Version 2003 and Visual C# .Net: Step by Step are two different editions of the same book. Some of the reviews you will read for this book refer to the other "edition". I really like the C# book, but I've never even seen the C++ edition. If you are developing a new .NET application with forms, I can't think of any reason to use Visual-C++. If you have a lot of legacy C++ code that you'd like to port to .NET, then you might want to use Managed C++. The book I bought is Visual C# .Net Step by Step Version 2003 by John Sharp and Jon Jagger. It seems like a really good introduction to programming Windows Forms with Visual C# in Visual Studio 2003.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Beginning C# Databases: From Novice to Professional; Author: Visit Amazon's James Huddleston Page; Review: Databases are a complete mystery to me. This book is exactly what I need to become a DBA overnight. I am extremely impressed with the way it manages to deal with a multitude of Microsoft development environments.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fateless; Author: Imre Kertesz; Review: This is a fascinating book. So many interesting aspects to the story that it's difficult to describe. Probably too difficult for most teenage readers, although on one level the narrative is reminiscent of Holden Caulfield. I must admit that for some reason, until about 3/4 of the way through the book, I kept wondering what was so special about it. Somewhere around the point where he is put in an infirmary in Buchenwald I realized it was more than "just another holocaust memoir." By the time I had finished the book, I understood why the author had won the Nobel prize for literature, even if I don't really understand the narrator's point-of-view. But it's something I will think about for a long time, and probably bring me back to read the book again.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Windows Forms Programming in C#; Author: Visit Amazon's Chris Sells Page; Review: I bought this based on the rave reviews on Amazon but I must say after a couple of weeks I am very disappointed by this book. I had hoped it would be a convenient and quick reference to such questions as "how do I use FolderBrowserDialog and/or OpenFileDialog to open a file in my C# program?" but although these standard components are indexed in the book the discussion of them in the book is shorter than this review I am writing. What I would want is some kind of sample code, maybe a step-by-step description of how to add the components to my program. I am left wondering what exactly is filling up the 658 pages of this book. I much prefer Sharp and Jagger's Visual C#.Net Step by Step both as a tutorial and as a general reference.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Boys' Crusade: The American Infantry in Northwestern Europe, 1944-1945 (Modern Library Chronicles); Author: Visit Amazon's Paul Fussell Page; Review: Paul Fussell is one of my favorite authors. "The Great War and Modern Memory" is one of my favorite books. This slim volume is not as good as his earlier "Wartime" (also about World War II) but it's a nice little book. The sort of book that would be nice to find in a cabin by a lake when you've somehow allowed yourself to be invited on a fishing trip and you don't fish.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hacking the Xbox: An Introduction to Reverse Engineering; Author: Visit Amazon's Andrew Huang Page; Review: This is a fascinating book. The biggest revelation to me was the existence of the Digital Millenium Copyright Act (DMCA) which caused the Author no small amount of aggravation just to get the book published. I had never even heard of the DMCA, and the idea that people at MIT are worried about publishing research because it might offend some corporation is frightening to me.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: PC Toys: 14 Cool Projects for Home, Office and Entertainment (ExtremeTech); Author: Visit Amazon's Barry Press Page; Review: This is a good introduction to what you can do with your PC - it's rather elementary, which is good, and is suitable for even the most novice PC user. This would make an excellent gift for a 14-year-old who wants to know, for example, how to network PCs together to have a LAN party. There's even a recipe for chocolate chip cookies, which is a cute touch. A number of the "projects" are really just good descriptions of accessories you can buy for your PC. If you didn't know that you can record television on your PC, this book gives you very specific directions for one inexpensive card you can buy, and is an excellent introduction to MPEG-2. I would give the book 5 stars except that for some reason they intentionally printed a banner at the top of each page in a faded fashion that is I guess supposed to look cool but just makes each page look like the printer pressed his thumbs into the ink. If I hadn't seen other copies of the book I would have thought I had purchased a defective copy. It might be the worst art layout I have ever seen in a book produced by a major publisher.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Build Your Own PC, First Edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Morris Rosenthal Page; Review: As of the date of this review, the Third Edition is a terrific book. Absolutely right on. It covers everything you need to know to build your own ATX-form factor computer, with the possible exception of leads to the best online vendors. It also doesn't cover things like mini-ITX configurations, but that wouldn't be appropriate for an introductory text anyway. If you are looking for the one book that will show you how to build your own machine, this is it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Microsoft Windows XP Inside out; Author: Visit Amazon's Ed Bott Page; Review: This is a huge book, 1165 pages filled with good stuff, plus an index of 77 pages. Lots of stuff I didn't even know that I didn't know. It is worth the (rather reasonably low) price of this book just to get its recommendation for a really good shareware imaging program. A great value.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Linux Kernel Development (2nd Edition); Author: Visit Amazon's Robert Love Page; Review: I buy a lot of technical books - more than I could possibly ever read. This title is, for me, very readable. The Author presents information the way I want to see it. I really like the historical background information on Linux and comparisons to Unix. If you are looking for one single reference on Linux programming, I recommend this title. Not just for kernel hacking.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: With the Old Breed: The World War Two Pacific Classic; Author: Visit Amazon's E. B. Sledge Page; Review: I finally got around to reading this wonderful book. Like many others, I was lead to it by Paul Fussell's "Wartime." I have gained a new appreciation for the history of the Pacific campaign and will undoubtedly read more. Sledge's account is a little tedious at times as he makes an effort to nail down historical details of troop deployments, which are important but not particularly interesting to the average reader, but it hardly detracts from the impact of the book. If an expanded edition of this book were published with better maps and perhaps an expanded introduction by an historian I would surely buy it. Fussell's introduction explains a little bit about how Sledge actually managed to keep notes in combat, which I found interesting and would like to know more about.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Faithful: Two Diehard Boston Red Sox Fans Chronicle the Historic 2004 Season; Author: Visit Amazon's Stewart O'Nan Page; Review: For the first 50 pages or so, I forced myself to keep reading "Faithful" just so I could write an Amazon review called "The Worst Book I Have Ever Actually Read", but around Memorial Day in the narrative, the actual events of the 2004 season become so compelling I started to actually enjoy reading the book. Stephen King's contributions are not bad and sometimes really entertaining. I have never read any of his work before and after having read Faithful I would consider reading more of his stuff, but unfortunately he has published so many books I literally wouldn't know where to begin. Stewart O'Nan's overbearing edits and contributions to the book alternate between boring, embarassing, assinine, annoying, and just plain stupid. For example, his favorite player is Brian Daubauch (just plain stupid), whom he insists are calling "Dauber" throughout the book (annoying). He devotes a large chunk of this book to describing how he goes about snaring baseballs in batting practice (boring) and getting innumerable autographs from players and managers (embarassing). In the second half of the book, he drones on and on about how he suspects that many games are rigged or fixed to create the highest possible fan interest and television ratings (assinine). Why would anyone who thinks that major league baseball is rigged be a fan of the game, much less write a book about it? Finally, in the closing chapter, he decides to annotate Stephen King's far more interesting text with his own boring, assinine, embarrasing, annoying and stupid footnotes. For the most part, Red Sox fans will find Stewart O'Nan's contributions to "Faithful" to be infuriating. On the other hand, if you are a Pittsburgh Pirates fan, like Stewart O'Nan, you may find his references to National League players like Roberto Clemente illuminating. If you were lucky enough to have written your own diary of the 2004 Red Sox season, you have no need to buy or read this book. In fact, the rest of us would appreciate it if you were to find a publisher.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Fear & Trembling; Author: Amelie Nothomb; Review: According to my online purchase records, I bought Fear and Trembling nearly 4 years ago, probably on impulse because Amazon had recommended it to me. I have just now, this evening, managed to finish it. Considering that the book is only 132 small pages of large type, maybe as long as a short story in the New Yorker, the fact that it has taken me this many years to make my way through it should tell you a lot about how dull this narrative is. The book has practically no plot, no suspense whatsoever, and all the depth and insight of a 22-year-old working in her first job at a large corporation. Why the two stars? It is not incoherent, and it is sort of interesting to read the narrator's misconception that somehow her experiences are worth writing about. I can imagine that this book, in its original French, might make a good assignment for a second-year college course in the language for non-native speakers. At least in the English edition I bought, there is plenty of margin space for a student to make notes.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Forgotten Soldier; Author: Visit Amazon's Guy Sajer Page; Review: This is a fascinating book. I enjoyed it immensely. I am tempted to give it 5 stars however it is not quite as well-written or provocative as some other first-person war stories that come to mind, such as E.B. Sledge's "With the Old Breed" or Wolfgang Samuel's "German Boy", or even Viktor Klemperer's "I Will Bear Witness" (which two volumes combined are probably my favorite book). Sajer's narrative gets more and more interesting as he develops his voice. Anyone who finds this book a bit tedious should be aware that the book really gets better after the first 100 pages. What is most fascinating to me about his story is his understanding of what he was fighting for. For example, he is genuinely surprised to discover at the end of the war that France has not been on Germany's side in the war against the Bolsheviks. There is a long passage in the middle of the book that attempts to reconstruct the sort of man-to-man talks his commanding officer would have with his troops late at night explaining the principles they were fighting for. In the book's most bizarre passage, Sajer expresses his anger at the terrorists (also known as partisans) for using tactics deliberately designed to provoke reprisals against civilians. If it ever occurred to him later in life that he was guilty of participating in an evil undertaking, and that Nazi Germany had no right to invade Poland, or the Soviet Union, or to carry out reprisals against civilians, he never admits it. In fact, it's my impression that even as an adult he never really understood that what Germany was doing was wrong. I read most of the book aware that there is some small controversy among World War II buffs about whether this is a novel or an actual autobiographical work. The work certainly purports to be a genuine autobiography, and ultimately I think it is, although at certain points in the story Sajer assumes an omniscient viewpoint (translating long speeches in Russian for example, or explaining what happens to troops left behind on the East side of the river after he has crossed over and is in a hospital), although I think this is just sloppy writing. His descriptions of Berlin while he is on leave remind me quite of bit of Remarque's World War II novel "A Time to Love and A Time to Die", but it has been years since I have read that. A comparison of the two works might make an interesting term-paper topic for a literature student interested in military history.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The War of Our Childhood: Memories of World War II; Author: Visit Amazon's Wolfgang W. E. Samuel Page; Review: This collection of short reminiscences by adult Germans who were children in Nazi Germany at the end of World War II is not quite as captivating as the author's own memoir "German Boy" but it is a fascinating nonetheless. If anything, given its format, this book would be even more accessible for a pre-teen reader than "German Boy." For me personally, the biggest revelation in these stories is the repeated memory of children of running for cover from strafing fighter planes ("Tiefflieger"). Many of the children in this book mention this experience. Anyone who has seen the PBS documentary "A Fighter Pilot's Story" will find these descriptions of the air war over Europe from the point of view of children walking home from Kindergarten particularly chilling.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Heidegger's Confusions; Author: Visit Amazon's Paul Edwards Page; Review: I happened to purchase this book after discovering, on the internet, that an old friend of mine had just published what I suppose is the definitive guide to Heidegger, in Norwegian, a language I don't speak. I was looking for a good, general introduction to Heidegger in English, my native tongue. I nearly fell out of my chair when I started reading it and realized it was not just merely a short monograph on Heidegger but an amusing attempt to discredit him and debunk all his theories. Although I can't pretend to have anything more than a passing knowledge of philosophy (for example, I've never been sure if I correctly understand Kant's argument that causality is necessary), the description of Heidegger in Paul Edwards' book actually reminds me of my old norwegian philosopher friend, and thus I tend to believe Edwards' assessment of Heidegger's contribution to western culture. My apologies to those who have made the study of Heidegger their life's work. I believe that similar books could be written about most of the great minds of western philosophy, but "que sais-je?"; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: As Far as My Feet Will Carry; Author: Josef M. Bauer; Review: I first became acquainted with this book when I watched the terrific television series based on it when I was in college in Germany for a year in 1974. Upon returning to the United States I was somewhat surprised to find that the book had been translated into English, and I read it, in English, in 1975. I recently read Guy Sajer's fascinating memoir "The Forgotten Soldier" and it reminded me once again of "As Far as My Feet..." I was pleased, and somewhat surprised, to see that it is still in print in English, and I've just read it again. This time, thirty years after my first reading, I found it nearly impossible to take the particulars of Bauer's story as literal facts. I don't doubt that there was a man who escaped from a Soviet prison camp and managed to return to Germany, and his experiences may have been somewhat similar to the events described in this book, but somehow the narrative doesn't now strike me as particularly genuine. It may be simply that in contrast to Gus Sajer's intensely personal account, Bauer's more professional narrative just doesn't measure up. If anything, this book has a lot more in common with Gary Paulsen's "Hatchet" (a terrific story for a 12-year-old) than it does with a soldier's survival tale. In any case it's a good adventure story, especially recommended for a young adult reader.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Chronicles, Vol. 1; Author: Visit Amazon's Bob Dylan Page; Review: The biggest surprise is that Dylan's memoirs are, for the most part, lucid and down-to-earth. He does a good job of articulating "scenes": particular people at a particular time and place doing, saying, and thinking particular things. On some subjects he does stray from the particulars however and I felt that a few short audio tracks might help explain what he is talking about. Nevertheless, I thought the insights he devulges about his creative process and his career influences were profound and fascinating. This is the work of a genius divulging his inner dialogue. He explains that he realized he could only succeed as a song-writer and not an instrumentalist after watching Mike Seeger, a renowned virtuoso folk musician, play guitar one night. The idea that it was his ambition to succeed for its own sake and not some unstoppable inner creative force that produced his repertoire is a revelation to me. It undoubtedly helps if you know his music well and are familiar with at least the major influences he cites. I had no clue that he had heard and absorbed Robert Johnson before he recorded his first album with Columbia (John Hammond gave him a pre-release copy of "King of the Delta Blues Singers"). If you grew up listening to that album as well as Dylan's early albums you must read this book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Too Much Tuscan Sun: Confessions Of A Chianti Tour Guide, First Edition; Author: Visit Amazon's Dario Castagno Page; Review: I haven't read any of Frances Mayes' books, but my native Italian wife has, and she liked those well-enough that we have visited Cortona. I picked up this book because I thought the title was funny and I enjoy reading books like Beppe Severgnini's "Ciao America", another book written by an Italian about those crazy Americans. Dario Castagno's book is not nearly as caustic as I had been lead to believe by the jacket blurb, as well as some of the previous Amazon reviews, and the title itself. It wasn't until I reached his chapter explaining the process behind the Palio that I really began to appreciate "Too Much Tuscan Sun" for what it is: a book written for Americans by a native Sienese. There are a few entertaining anecdotes throughout the book about some of the weird American tourists he has met, but the funny stories he tells about American tourists say as much about him as they do about any of his clients. A certain percentage of his clients appear to be people looking for a broad introduction to Italy who really ought to be just following the latest edition of Frommer's Italy (which is a guidebook I still use and rely on) rather than hiring a local guide to show them the more obscure sites that mean something to him personally. I have been to a number of the tourist sites that Dario mentions as frequent stops on his tours, and I think that may help my appreciation of this book. For example, I would never dream of taking an elderly person to see Monte Oliveto Maggiore, because there is a long walk downhill to the monastery from the parking lot. Yet Dario tells the tale of trying to bring a busload of 20 elderly American tourists with predictably disastrous results. He also doesn't seem to understand that if two couples are calling him every 30 minutes with questions the night before a tour and leaving him waiting in the hotel lobby in the morning it's probably because one or both of those couples are engaged in hand-to-hand combat in the privacy of their hotel rooms, trying to decide how they are going to spend the remaining days of their relaxing Italian sojourn. I myself have been escorted by Italians to see recently excavated Etruscan ruins, and while Etruscan ruins may be especially thought-provoking to an Italian, I can understand why an American tourist might not find them quite so fascinating. I have also, personally consumed a lot of Diet Coke in Italy, and I found the number of times this American habit is mentioned to be hilarious (I think it has something to do with the fact that Americans, like me, are accustomed to drinking more liquid throughout the day, and we are trying NOT to gain TOO much weight when we are in Italy). But the main value of this book is the way it tries to communicate to Americans what an Italian really loves about his country, and what he finds particularly interesting about American culture.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Brunelleschi's Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture; Author: Visit Amazon's Ross King Page; Review: This is a very entertaining book. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of 15th Century Florence, with sheep grazing within the city walls. The author emphasizes that Brunelleschi solved the problem of spanning the Duomo without the use of scaffolding or "centering" in a daring, revolutionary way. There's only one problem with the story however: the author never explains what that daring, revolutionary way was exactly, and I am left scratching my head wondering what part of the story I missed. It's possible that we simply don't know how Brunelleschi did it without "centering", but if that's the case, the author never says that. I read this book twice in succession trying to understand this central, specific point, but failed to find any explanation anywhere in the text.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: 1776 : America and Britain at War; Author: Visit Amazon's David McCullough Page; Review: I bought '1776' in the Audio CD format and "ripped" it to Windows Media Audio (.wma) files to download to my MP3 player. I listened to on my daily exercise walks in the Minuteman National Historical Park. The author is of course famous for his television narratives and does the reading of his own work on this set of 10 CDs. I enjoy listening to his voice immensely. The story, focussed as it is on the sequence of events in 1776, is entirely linear and very easy to follow while walking, even without illustrations. I don't even know what illustrations are included with the text edition.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Love My Rifle More than You: Young and Female in the U.S. Army; Author: Visit Amazon's Kayla Williams Page; Review: Kayla Williams is an intelligent, interesting person with a lot to say about the war in Iraq and what it's like to be a soldier in today's American Army. Most of the publicity surrounding this book has focused on her experiences as one of the 15% of soldiers in Iraq who are women, and while that's reason enough to read it, the book is much more than that. If you've ever wondered what it would be like to be a soldier in Iraq, or a woman stationed on a hilltop on the Syrian border, or a vegetarian enlisted in the Army, or an Arab linguist in the Middle East, you should read this book. It would not surprise me to see much of this book used as a primary source in business management and organizational studies texts. She writes a lot about the leadership faults of people in positions of authority in the Army, and about her frustrations with incompetent management. At one point she concludes that the Army is like a form of Communism. A lot of her complaints about mistakes her leaders make are not really specific to the Army however and any manager in any organization can learn from this book. For example, she often complains that she doesn't receive enough encouragement and reassurance that she is doing a good job. She's fairly typical of a lot of bright "individual contributors" who are smart enough to recognize faults in their leaders but do not yet have enough supervisory experience to learn how hard it is to be a leader. Ultimately she is very positive about her experience in the Army and although it is clearly not her intent, I think a lot of teenage boys reading this book could get the impression that a tour of duty in Iraq might be kind of fun. For this reason I would not want my 17-year-old son to read this book, because I don't want him to enlist. My only real complaint with the book is that she doesn't go into more detail on the many topics she covers. I would love to know, for example, how exactly one goes about doing "signal intelligence": what frequencies they monitor, how successful are they at intercepting and understanding radio traffic in Arabic, and how it is that half of her team in Iraq are trained in Korean and not Arabic (what is it that they can do exactly?). I would like to know more about what books she read while stationed on the Syrian border. She says that "everyone" understood that the war was not justified and yet I have to think not "everyone" thought this at the start of the invasion. I would like to know more about how people serving in Iraq would come to this conclusion.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Washington's Crossing (Pivotal Moments in American History); Author: Visit Amazon's David Hackett Fischer Page; Review: I listened to the audio CD edition of this on my daily exercise walks immediately after finishing the audio CD edition of "1776". Compared to David McCollough's book, "Washington's Crossing", at least as an audio book, is utter torture. I can't imagine finishing this book if I had attempted to actually read it. I had hoped that this book would provide additional, interesting detail to supplement "1776", which I loved. I particularly wanted to know more about the motivation of individual soldiers fighting for the American cause, but aside from some additional information about the Hessian army, I really can't say I learned anything from this book that I hadn't already heard in "1776". Admittedly, part of the problem with the audio edition is undoubtedly Nelson Runger's horrible narration. He has the extraordinarily bad taste to read quotes translated from German with a faux German accent. But the text itself is simply boring and repetitious. I kept thinking I had accidentally rewound the audio. The story is so circular, I wondered if I were listening to passages out of order. It's interesting to me that people who had read this book first seem to prefer it to "1776" - I can only say that I had the complete opposite reaction, having "heard" the books in opposite order.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: The Education of a Coach; Author: Visit Amazon's David Halberstam Page; Review: I looked forward to reading this book and ordered it from Amazon before its publication date. My first surprise upon receiving it was that it's smaller, shorter and less substantial than I had expected. I was hoping for a more literate book about Bill Belichick than Michael Holley's "Patriot Reign" which I found fascinating but thought was very poorly written. As a Patriots fan, I very much enjoyed reading "The Education of a Coach" but I can't say I learned very much from it, because most of the "inside" stories about the Patriots I had read or heard before. The most worthwhile part of the book for me concerned Bill Belichick's father's background and his immigrant story, which was very interesting. It came as no surprise to me to read in his acknowledgements at the end of the book that the author is a life-long Giants fan. This is a book that tells the story of Bill Belichick's career as though he achieved his greatest success as the Defensive Coordinator of the New York Giants in the 1980's, when evidently they must have been the greatest team in the history of the National Football League. Never mind that Belichick achieved more success with the Patriots and that the players he coached in New England were better than the players he coached in New Jersey: the history of the NFL is all about the Giants. I got the impression that Halberstam, having interviewed Belichick for this book, was determined to publish something but did not have the time or interest to produce a complete work. He has a very unfortunate tendency to tell us things without showing us (for example, he tells us that Bob Kraft and Bill Parcells had a "difficult" relationship but he never illustrates their relationship), or when he does show us something he doesn't expound on it. On at least two occasions he says something like "for some reason Belichick did this" without exploring why Belichick did what he did. It seems to me that if you are going to write a book about a coach, you might want to explore why the coach might, for example, occasionally try to motivate his team with an emotional speech before a game. There is an error in the text on page 212 which should have been caught by proofreaders, unless we think that Halberstam really meant to describe Terry Glenn as a "player that [Bobby] Grier had wanted who had caused no amount of coaching heartache..."; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: War in Val D'Orcia : 1943-44 - A Diary; Author: Visit Amazon's Iris Origo Page; Review: "War in Val D'Orcia" is a rather terse diary of events throughout Italy in 1943-1944 written by the English-born wife of a wealthy landowner in Tuscany. As an account of life under Nazi rule it's not nearly as profound or fascinating as Victor Klemperer's "I Will Bear Witness" but after the first 100 pages (or so) which are somewhat strangely detached and impersonal ("In Rome to have the baby"), and mostly an account of Italian national politics at that time, I literally couldn't put it down. Until I read this book I had often wondered why there are so many abandoned farm buildings in Tuscany: I now understand that until relatively recently there was a feudal system in place, where farmers did not actually own their land but instead worked it for the landowner in exchange for half of their production. "War in Val D'Orcia" exposed me to aspects of Italian culture that I had never even really thought about before. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history and culture of Italy and Tuscany in particular. This is the first book by or about Iris Origo that I have read but it won't be the last.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Greatest Story Ever Sold: The Decline and Fall of Truth from 9/11 to Katrina; Author: Visit Amazon's Frank Rich Page; Review: I am a huge fan of Frank Rich's column in the Sunday New York Times, and often buy the paper just to read what he has to say. I was thrilled to see that he was publishing a book, and pre-ordered it on Amazon before publication. This is a step-by-step account of how the Bush White House "sold" the country on the idea of invading Iraq. It is written as a kind of guidebook for future generations to understand how the United States could be so foolish, and in fact will probably be a valuable source for our descendants trying to understand this mystery, should civilization survive this administration. However, the book barely addresses the even more mysterious question of why the Bush Administration wanted to invade Iraq, a point that may seem obvious to some people but utterly baffles me. In Rich's final chapter of expository text (his epilogue, before a substantial time line of events that is the book's very large appendix) he does attempt to answer this more important question: "why did Bush invade Iraq?" I'm not sure I find his answer wholly satisfactory (basically he says the neo-Cons wanted to do this, and it was useful for Karl Rove's political strategy), and I am left thinking the United States' decision to invade Iraq is history's most disastrous example of "group think." An interesting highlight of the book that was an eyeopener to me is his characterization of Bob Woodward as little more than a shill for the administration, a portrayal that makes Woodward's latest book "State of Denial" all the more interesting to me.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Woman in Berlin: Eight Weeks in the Conquered City: A Diary; Author: Visit Amazon's Anonymous Page; Review: A really interesting, compelling read. I couldn't put it down. I recommend "A Woman in Berlin" to anyone who was fascinated by both Victor Klemperer's "I Will Bear Witness" or Guy Sajer's "Forgotten Soldier" but especially Wolfgang Samuel's "German Boy", which covers essentially the same historical experience from a different point-of-view. For the first half of this book I was bothered somewhat by trying to unravel what had been fictionalized, novelized, and cleaned-up but I suspect that was mostly due to the rough, probably incoherent nature of the author's original notes recorded in real time at the end of the war in Berlin. It doesn't help that there is a typographical error on page 124, a missing preposition, and at least one sentence that could use a translator's note (what does it mean that she ran out to grab a "beam of wood"?). Towards the second half of the book it becomes clear however that she probably wasn't fictionalizing much to hide the identities of the people she writes about. She frequently mentions her bluntness in discussing rape every time she reunites with a female acquaintance. There is simply too much authentic-sounding detail about particular people doing and saying particular things, for much of this to have been changed to protect the victims. As a narrative the story reminds me quite a bit of "Suite Francaise". The paperback edition is, incidentally, beautifully bound, and a pleasure to hold. It is a very nicely manufactured book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Coming to Colorado: A Young Immigrant's Journey to Become an American Flyer (Willie Morris Books in Memoir and Biography); Author: Visit Amazon's Wolfgang W. E. Samuel Page; Review: This is a must-read for anyone who enjoyed "German Boy". Those put off by Samuel's seemingly photographic memory may find his relentlessly detailed account of life in the United States to be a bit unbelievable. I, however, find his writing style very compelling, and although I am not a native speaker of German, the word "deutlich" kept coming to my mind as I read this book, meaning "articulate, clear, lucid, and precise" and presumably also fundamentally very "German" ("Deutsch"). Samuel's own life-story is so carefully chronicled that on one rare occasion when he says he doesn't remember exactly where his mother was at that moment it is actually a little disconcerting. There is enough flashback to events in "German Boy" that this book can stand on its own: there would certainly be nothing wrong with reading this book first. His focus here is of course on the immigrant experience, and anyone specifically interested in that topic need not read "German Boy" to appreciate "Coming to Colorado". I particularly enjoyed reading about life in the early days of the U.S. Air Force, and I find myself now motivated to read his other two books "American Raiders" and "I Always Wanted to Fly". Samuel's book is also a reminder that for those who experienced it first-hand, Communism was, and is, a very bad thing, and not just some kind of alternative political lifestyle.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My German Question: Growing Up in Nazi Berlin; Author: Professor Peter Gay; Review: I usually make a point of not re-reading other Amazon reviews before writing my own review of a book I've just finished, but in this case, for some reason, I strayed from my usual practice... I'm surprised that few of my fellow reviewers have mentioned how amusing Peter Gay's book is - this is the one aspect that drew me in when I finally got around to reading "My German Question" - his description of projecting anti-semitism on a German money changer when returning to Germany as an adult. I found his self-deprecating self-analysis very funny and very entertaining. Many people, including non-jews, who pay attention to such things, feel ambivalent about modern Germany. I myself, an erstwhile German Literature scholar, have said things in anger that could probably get me arrested (I have since been told that it is actually illegal to call someone a Nazi in Germany today), to a native who had taken my seat at the Hofbrauhaus. One of the minor disappointments of my life was to discover that Germans today are not obsessed with the question of German collective guilt - that Germany exists only in the novels of Heinrich Boell, from what I can tell. I agree with those who have noted that Gay has a tendency to tell us that times were tough, without really describing what specifically was tough about it, in detail. We read a lot about his strategies for coping with his isolation as a Jew in Nazi Germany, and I found this very interesting, but I missed seeing more description of what it was exactly he was coping with. The book makes a very interesting companion to Wolfgang Samuel's "German Boy" and especially "Coming to Colorado" which I also read recently. It's ironic that both Samuels and Gay should end up in Denver, of all places. One minor frustration with this paperback edition: the book is tall and thin, an annoying form factor that I did not enjoy holding. I probably would not buy this book if I had picked it up browsing in a bookstore, and I put off reading it after ordering from Amazon simply because I didn't like the shape. In the end however, I'm glad I overcame this deterrent!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Italy Out of Hand: A Capricious Tour; Author: Visit Amazon's Barbara Hodgson Page; Review: I love reading guidebooks - to Italy in particular, and bought this book in part because, quite frankly, I couldn't quite figure out what this book was exactly from the description on Amazon and the previous reviews. "Italy Out of Hand" is a small, nicely and heavily bound book, reminiscent in its physical attributes of a Folio Society Edition. It would make a nice gift for any Bibliophile interested in Italy. It is not a guidebook that most people will want to take to Italy with them. For one thing, given its size, it's simply too heavy and unfortunately literally not worth its weight in useful information. It will look nice in your bookshelf at home but not something you want to lug around in your suitcase. Most of the information, such as it is, can be found in more detail and more lucid prose in the latest edition of "Frommer's Italy." There's very little here that experienced visitors to Italy will find new, and what is "new" is often pointless and lacks interesting detail: "So-and-so was the notorious son of the famous so-and-so who traveled to Egypt with So-and-so who became the Duchess of Orsino" or something like that. The book particularly lacks information pertinent to Italy today. I got the impression that the author relied heavily on 19th-century travel guides and the novels of Stendhal for information. For a book about Italy, there is very little information about food, and hardly anything about life outside of the major cities.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Peeling the Onion; Author: Visit Amazon's Gunter Grass Page; Review: If I ever manage to finish this book, I will revise this review. As much as I hate to publish a review for a book I haven't been able to finish, yet, I am so shocked to see praise heaped upon this tortuous text that I feel I must speak now to warn others of the tedium I have subjected myself to by undertaking this surprisingly unreadable "memoir". I read the excerpt in the New Yorker and loved it - I couldn't wait to read the book. This should be just my cup of tea. It should be a book I couldn't put down, but more than a month after I started, I am only about half-way through. I went so far as order a copy of the original German text. Just as I suspected, much of the English text suffers from literal translation of twisted passages in the passive voice, which is a more acceptable style in the German language. But I sympathize with the translator; it must be hard to re-write a Nobel-prize winning author, even if his stuff is unintelligible to the English reader. Grass' "memoir" suffers from too many instances of things he can't remember. He lived an interesting life, and if he could remember it, it would make a good story. Even when he says he remembers something clearly, he then obfuscates it with self-doubt. If you read the New Yorker excerpt and think you must read the rest of the book: be forewarned. The New Yorker got the good stuff. The rest Grass doesn't really remember.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: On the Natural History of Destruction; Author: W.G. Sebald; Review: This very slight volume consists of about 100 pages of an interesting set of lectures on the subject of why there hadn't been much written in contemporary German literature on the subject of the destruction of German cities by aerial bombing in World War II. It's a very interesting topic but the lectures pre-date the publication of "Der Brand" ("The Fire") by Joerg Friedrich which I imagine makes Sebald's earlier lectures somewhat obsolete. The lectures are somewhat interesting read in conjunction with Gunther Grass' very disappointing and confusing "Peeling the Onion" although Sebald doesn't refer to Grass' work anywhere in this book. The rest of the book is padded out with three short essays on two German writers and one German artist who are mostly unknown outside of the German-speaking world. I majored in German literature as an undergraduate in the 70's but don't think I had ever heard of Alfred Andersch, or if I had, I had completely forgotten about him. The essay on Peter Weiss, an artist of some kind, is particularly obtuse without any illustrations accompanying the text.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life; Author: Visit Amazon's Steve Martin Page; Review: My pre-ordered copy from Amazon arrived the day before Thanksgiving. I tried to explain to my son who was home from college for the break how much I looked forward to reading Steve Martin's autobiography. He thought it sounded about as interesting as reading the autobiography of Chevy Chase. But to anyone old enough to remember Steve Martin's sensational, if seemingly brief, career as a stand-up comic, this is a fascinating book, not to be missed. There is much here that was new to me. I had no idea, for example, that he appeared so many times on the Tonight Show before becoming really famous, or that he had appeared as a bearded, long-haired comedian before adopting his famous clean-cut 3-piece white suit look, or that he suffered from debilitating panic attacks just as he began his career as a writer on the Smothers Brothers show. For the first 80 pages or so I thought his life story was a bit humdrum, almost like a parody of Bob Dylan's "Chronicles". Martin grew up 2 miles from Disneyland, and the fact that he became an entertainer seemed almost inevitable. But the book really takes off as he recounts the early days of his career making the transition from magician with a few funny bits to a full-blown stand-up comic. Not that Steve Martin is the colossal genius that Bob Dylan is, but it's interesting that much as Dylan describes how he became a songwriter because he realized he could never succeed as a virtuoso guitarist, Martin writes how he became a comic because, well, who doesn't want to be in show business? At the height of his career as a stand-up comic Steve Martin was the funniest man in America. One of the joys of this book is that he appreciates how funny he was and delights in retelling the same jokes that amused us then and amuse us now. For the generation of Americans who came of age in the Seventies, Steve Martin's routines remain an important part of our lives. For example, for me personally, on the night in September 1978 when I finished my first day as a microprocessor programmer I recalled his profound insight: "...and the most amazing thing to me is: I get paid for doing this." I am very grateful that Steve Martin has taken the time to write this book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Unofficial Tourists' Guide to Second Life; Author: Visit Amazon's Paul Carr Page; Review: I've been playing Second Life for only about a week and was curious to see if there were any books written about it. I must admit I was surprised to see that there are several available, but I bought this one because it was the only book I saw on Amazon that appeared to have been reviewed by actual people, and not just by the author's Second Life avatar. (I have also ordered the new edition of the Official Guide due out next month.) After receiving the book last night I understand and appreciate Jerry Saperstein's earlier review on this page. I feel fortunate to have at least tried Second Life before seeing this book, and I still have hope that Second Life is more than what is described in this book. There is some useful information here, but the stuff I really want to know (like, if I buy "new land" can I choose the location?) I guess I'll just have to find out on my own. Thanks to this book, I now know that Amsterdam Second Life is a really good place to get my Second Life genitals, an aspect of the game that had not occurred to me, and frankly really doesn't interest me. If the book is right, and cybersex is really what Second Life is all about, then maybe the $10 I spent on this book has saved me a lot of time wasted in this game.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Dictionary of German Synonyms; Author: Visit Amazon's R. B. Farrell Page; Review: Recently in my German conversation class I remarked something to the effect that every time I make a presentation to a large group I am thankful that "am mindestens ist es auf Englisch" that is, "at least it's in English," my native tongue. My instructor, a native speaker of German, instinctively corrected my use of the term "am mindestens," saying that I should have said "am wenigstens ist es auf Englisch," but when asked, she realized that although she was sure "am wenigstens" would be correct, she couldn't really explain why. I naturally turned my old reliable "Dictonary of German Synonyms", one of my favorite language books, for clarification. The distinction is apparently that "am mindestens" should be used primarily with precise numerical amounts, such as for example "I drank at least 2 liters of Gluhwein last night." I say "apparently" because the explanation in Farrell's book is actually a bit cryptic. Much more clear is the more recent and larger (and more expensive) "A Practical Dictionary of German Usage" by K.B. Beaton. The two books are extremely similar. Farrell was a Professor of German at the University of Sydney and his book was published by Cambridge University Press. Beaton was a Senior Lecturer in German Studies at the University of Sydney and his book is published by Oxford University Press. Why the University of Sydney would be the center of English language research in German synonyms is a curiosity, but if not Sydney, Australia, where should they be studied? Beaton acknowledges Farrell's pioneering work in the field but clearly believes it was already out of date by the 1960s. If you can only afford one book, I suppose I would recommend the more expensive Beaton, but despite the similarities I still find Farrell's older work more readable. If nothing else, Farrell's book is less unwieldy and easier to read for pleasure.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Top 10 Naples and the Amalfi Coast (Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guides); Author: Visit Amazon's Jeffrey Kennedy Page; Review: As a frequent visitor to the area I was pleasantly surprised by this very practical and compact guidebook to Naples and the Amalfi Coast. I am pleased that this is a book that I would take with me on my next trip - there is enough here that is new for me, and I'm surprised that the recommendations are, based on my tastes and personal experiences, quite accurate. I am particularly pleased that the author gives good coverage to the Capodimonte Museum (I had really expected to criticize the book for overlooking one of Naples most important attractions), which for some reason is usually given short shrift in American guidebooks. On the other hand, the allegiance to a "top ten" format can be a little misleading unless the reader is careful: the Capodimonte is listed as a "top ten" museum along with such extremely minor destinations as the "paper" museum in Amalfi (Museo della Carta), but note however that the Capodimonte museum is itself a "top ten" attraction for the entire region. It's also interesting that the book does not devote much space to such well-known destinations (and typical tourist overnight stays) as Sorrento and Amalfi itself. Quite frankly, I think it's a wise decision: the book is small enough to fit comfortably in a jacket pocket or a purse or a knapsack, and I think it's primarily meant for the traveler who is staying in Naples (perhaps for business) and is interested in what to see in the city and on day trips along the coast, as far south as Paestum. One minor nit: although the author mentions that nativity scene decorations ("Presepe") are typical souvenirs of Naples he does not mention the street "Via San Gregorio Armeno" which is lined with shops selling them. I personally consider it a highlight destination of the city. Similarly, although he mentions Vietri sul Mare, there's no photo of the town and he doesn't really convey how much fun it is to explore the ceramic shops there. Of course a book this size can't really do more than list the attractions: a careful reader who knows what they are interested in will find much useful information here. Highly recommended.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Rand Mcnally EasyFinder Arizona (Map); Author: Visit Amazon's Rand McNally Page; Review: I bought this because I am planning a long weekend in Sedona, after flying into Phoenix and picking up a rental car. It's no better than a map I would expect to get for free from the car rental agency, but it's laminated. Really I bought this because I had already place 3 Sedona books in my Shopping Cart and needed a fourth item to qualify for the 4-for-3 special from Amazon, so essentially this map was free. For that price, I guess it's worth the money.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Sedona: Treasure of the Southwest; Author: Visit Amazon's Kathleen Bryant Page; Review: This is a large, thin paperback which would probably be a nice souvenir of Sedona (I haven't been yet!) but was not what I was hoping for. It's my own fault for not reading the reviews more closely. It's a little more useful than a (very) similar book called "Secret Sedona" which is also a large thin, paperback filled with nice photographs but not the practical information I am looking for as I plan our upcoming trip. I bought several books about Sedona from Amazon recently and none of them have been as useful as the information I can find on the web.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: From Those Wonderful Folks Who Gave You Pearl Harbor: Front Line Dispatches from the Advertising War; Author: Visit Amazon's Jerry Della Femina Page; Review: I bought this used from an Amazon dealer after seeing it mentioned in a New York Times article about my favorite television series - "Mad Men". The book doesn't really document the kind of lifestyle and businesses practices lampooned in Mad Men but it's a fun and interesting book if you are old enough to remember the products and the ad campaigns. It's not hard to see why the book is no longer in print. Readers who are unfamiliar with Braniff Airlines or the book "Portnoy's Complaint" will find many of the references to then-current events and popular culture obscure and confusing. The book was evidently written in August or September of 1969 as the author refers to a huge rock festival in Bethel, New York but not by the name "Woodstock". The book drags a bit at times - there is more information here about competitive practices in the late 60s Advertising Business than most people are going to care about. But if you enjoy learning about how and why American beer drinkers would never want a "Lite Beer" and how advertising would never again be as dumb as the Certs commercials ("it's a breath mint" "no, it's a candy mint") it's an extremely funny and entertaining read.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Waiter Rant: Thanks for the Tip--Confessions of a Cynical Waiter; Author: Visit Amazon's Steve Dublanica Page; Review: I pre-ordered this book after seeing some kind of pre-publication publicity online. Even though I knew it was based on a blog I waited for the book and never read the blog until after finishing the book. "Waiter Rant" is less a book about working as a waiter in a New York restaurant than it is the observations of a guy in a dead-end job facing a mid-life crisis. There is surprisingly little information about the restaurant business here, possibly in part because he was trying to maintain the anonymity his blog, but for example, it would be nice to know more about what was on the menu, what were his personal favorites, was there anything he really didn't like, how often did the menu change, and why, how much money did the restaurant make on a typical night, what are the most profitable things they sell, what do they do with the leftovers and the unused food, etc. These are the mysteries of successful restaurants that have always intrigued me, less so how obnoxious some customers are about getting a "good" table and how customers are seated in different sections to distribute the workload among waiters and to parcel out the good tips. I got the impression that in his six years working as a waiter that not much really happened. He alludes to hearing stories about other waiters spitting in the food or playing hockey on the kitchen floor with a customer's hamburger, but he (thankfully) never did these things and never really witnessed them. He mentions that if you forget to bring your wallet and can't pay your tab they'll let you owe it to them if you are a regular customer but if not they'll call the police. Is that really what happens? Did a non-regular customer ever forget to bring any money and did they call the police, or is this all just hypothetical? My guess is nothing even that interesting ever happens. There's a lot here about a guy growing old, lonely, in a dead-end job, with no paid vacation, no retirement plan, and little or no health insurance. It's clear that being a waiter is not much of a career. That's the depressing part: the life of "quiet desperation." I think most readers will find themselves rooting for the author. I'm glad the guy got his blog published and I'm glad I bought his book. I just wish it were better.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Diary of Dawid Sierakowiak: Five Notebooks from the Lodz Ghetto; Author: Visit Amazon's Dawid Sierakowiak Page; Review: A really great, fascinating book. I've read a lot of holocaust literature, but rarely review it, because what can I say besides that it "literally caused me to have nightmares" - should I say that I "enjoy" reading these accounts? But I can't let this masterpiece go unnoted by me. Dawid Sierakowiak's notebooks are enormously interesting and inspiring. Very similar to Victor Klemperer's diaries but more terse and to the point. I found it very interesting that both Klemperer and Sierakowiak seek refuge in books, and even (as I recall from my reading Klemperer years ago) both mention reading "The Forsythe Saga" while undergoing starvation and persecution. Of particular interest in Sierakowiak's diaries is his accounts of what news he heard from the outside world (for the most part he is surprisingly well-informed) and what "current events" signify to him. I found it very interesting, for example, not only that he was aware that Anthony Eden was visiting Washington in early 1943 (which I assume is true - I really have no idea) but also that he hoped for some kind of decisive announcement or action to come as a result of that meeting. The diaries get bogged down a bit in extremely depressing detail of what little food he and his family managed to eat but then explode with lucidity when his Mother is selected for deportation. Really one of the most memorable books I have ever read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Wordy Shipmates; Author: Visit Amazon's Sarah Vowell Page; Review: The subject matter is fascinating to me - I am a direct descendant of John Winthrop and Thomas Dudley and am a little embarrassed to realize how little I knew of their history. The author describes her writing style as "chatty and confrontational" - it is to me very informal and colloquial with frequent references to popular culture that are only barely intelligible to me as someone who is evidently slightly older than her. If references to episodes of the Brady Bunch mean nothing to you, don't even attempt to read this book. For all the breezy writing, I found it somewhat difficult reading. Nevertheless, I recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in the early history of Massachusetts for whatever reason, particularly if you know little about it to begin with.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The GUNS OF AUGUST; Author: Barbara W. Tuchman; Review: I've been simultaneously listening to an audio version and reading the book, which I have owned for years, but never got around to reading. It's hard to imagine why this was ever considered such a compelling read. Very hard to follow and really rather boring. If you want to read a really great book about World War I, I recommend Paul Fussell's "The Great War and Modern Memory" - one of the best books I've ever read, or Robert Graves' "Goodbye to All That" - another really great book. The most interesting thing about Tuchman's book to my mind is that it was ever considered some kind of page-turner, or anything but boring.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Circuit Analysis For Dummies; Author: Visit Amazon's John Santiago Page; Review: I jumped at the chance to read this book because as an old software engineer who has worked for years with hardware designers I was hoping to get a broad if not superficial introduction to the topic. I quickly realized however that even though it's for "Dummies" it is not a tutorial but rather a reference book for people who are otherwise versed in the topic. I've bought and read many "For Dummies" books before but this is the first time I've absorbed and understood what they mean when they say "A Reference Book for the Rest of Us" - that "Circuit Analysis for Dummies" was probably way over my head probably would have been obvious if I had picked this book up in a bookstore, but it wasn't obvious to me online. If the book had been called "Schaum's Outline of Circuit Analysis" I never would have ordered it, because I would have known it's not for me. That being said, it seems like a really well-written book for anyone who is already familiar with Kirchhoff's Laws.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Italy's Best Trips (Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: This is an excellent guidebook for planning, dreaming, and fantasizing about your next trip to Italy. I can't imagine anyone actually taking this book with them on a trip, because the scope is a bit broad (it includes itineraries all over Italy including Sicily and Sardinia) but for pure pleasure of reading about places to go I highly recommend it. It's going to have a place in my bathroom for many years. It's a beautiful book with terrific photographs and gorgeous layout. I really like the tactile feel of the cover, the paper inside, the size and weight of the book as it sits in my hand. I don't usually think to comment on the physical qualities of any book but something about this guidebook really appeals to me physically. The focus of the guidebook is on driving in Italy, but it's more of a general guide to Italy than Frommer's "Best Drives" volumes. This book includes two pages about Venice, for example, where driving is impossible. Most of the country is covered with the glaring exception of Le Marche, which is barely mentioned except as the location of Urbino. Ascoli Piceno is not included anywhere in the text. I found one amusing error not caught by an editor: in the brief paragraph about Salerno the text starts referring to the city as Sorrento, when it's clear that they meant Salerno. Incidentally, if this guidebook is ostensibly for motorists, why recommend a hotel in Salerno because it's near the train station? I am particularly impressed that Pioppi, a place that until relatively recently was hard to even find on a map, is mentioned and described accurately. Definitely got some ideas for our next trip perusing this text. Highly recommended.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Signals and Systems For Dummies; Author: Visit Amazon's Mark Wickert Page; Review: I know from previous experience with the "Dummies" series that they are often not really intended as tutorials for people who truly know nothing about the subject except perhaps enough about it to know they would like to know more, but rather as easy-to-read reference books for people already educated in the topic. So I was not surprised to see that this book is mostly over my head as I've never taken a course at any level in "Signals and Systems", but I've been exposed to the topics covered by such a course enough in the course of my career as a software engineer to know that I wish I had. That being said, I really like this book. There are excellent real-world examples of systems where the techniques discussed are useful (e.g. in a smartphone) and I really like the fact that python is used for the programming examples.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Peterson Reference Guide to Seawatching: Eastern Waterbirds in Flight (Peterson Reference Guides); Author: Visit Amazon's Ken Behrens Page; Review: "Seawatching" refers to the practice of identifying birds in flight over the water, often moving fast in flocks (or not) in the distance. This book goes into terrific detail describing techniques for identifying flocks of birds in flight - it's a little difficult for me, only an occasional birder and almost always in the company of advanced birdwatchers when I do go birdwatching, to review an advance copy of this book, which when published would appear to be illustrated with extensive color photographs (my copy is entirely in black-and-white). The text and the subject is fascinating however. I particularly enjoyed the description of Tundra Swans, who "often reveal their presence with their call, a high-pitched, gurgling yodel drifting down from high overhead." To which the authors add: "Although this is not the most enticing description, it is one of the continent's most beautiful and intensely wild sounds." I've never seen a flock of swans (and didn't know that swans travel in flocks in places I've never been) and found this description very interesting. It's a very large book, evidently filled with lots of good stuff. I like my advance copy enough to have placed an advance order for the real thing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hitler's Furies: German Women in the Nazi Killing Fields; Author: Visit Amazon's Wendy Lower Page; Review: A very interesting, thought-provoking book that examines life in Nazi Germany with respect specifically to German women who chose to live and work in the occupied East, mostly. Some very interesting material. I found some passages a little confusing, in that the point-of-view would switch suddenly from vague generalities to specific details. I read an advance review copy of the book and wonder if the writing wasn't tightened a bit in subsequent editions. In any case it didn't detract from the information. One woman's story, a woman who married an SS officer and lived with him in Poland, is particularly chilling and unusual in that we know much about her activities at all. The inference is that her crimes (against humanity) may not have been that uncommon but we just don't know, in part because it never occurred to people that women could be as evil as men.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Italian Grammar For Dummies; Author: Visit Amazon's Beth Bartolini-Salimbeni Page; Review: I have been teaching myself Italian since my first trip to Italy in 1974 - I have owned countless Italian grammars over the years. There's nothing wrong with this book but I was hoping for something more revolutionary. It's really just another Italian grammar with the title "for Dummies" slapped on it. Nothing wrong with it certainly but given its rather large (in my opinion) form factor I find it somewhat cumbersome. I would never back this in my luggage on a trip to Italy (I recommend the Dover book "Essential Italian Grammar" instead) although I suppose nowadays most people wouldn't pack any physical books anyway, opting to put everything on their Kindle. I have noticed recently that the "For Dummies" series has been publishing a lot of reference books kind-of repackaged with their brand - this is another example. This book is fine but there is nothing really "For Dummies" about it.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Inside Concentration Camps: Social Life at the Extremes; Author: Visit Amazon's Maja Suderland Page; Review: I have read a lot of holocaust survivor stories - at various times in my life I have done binge reading of them to the point where I literally get nightmares. I've also bought, but never read, a lot of paperbacks written by Pierre Bourdieu. I think the idea of examining the sociology of life in a concentration camp is interesting but I found this book to be as unreadable as all those Bourdieu books I know I will never read. The book is so academic it almost seems like a self-parody. I highlighted this passage to include as an example, and this is hardly the most obscure example I could have chosen: "History and sociology are supposedly in contradiction because history believes itself to be hermaneutical in that it engages in inductive, source-driven empiricism aimed at an event-oriented, diachronic perspective, while sociology engages in the theory-driven, synchronous analysis of structures with the aim of a deductive-explanatory depiction of the general or typical based on data." You know, history is about specific facts and things that happened and sociology makes generalizations about the way things are. If you are familiar with the work of Pierre Bourdieu and are interested in how his sociological frameworks might be applied to life in a concentration camp, this book is for you.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Designing Multi-Device Experiences: An Ecosystem Approach to User Experiences across Devices; Author: Michal Levin; Review: If you've done any kind of user-interface work recently you are aware that whatever your primary target platform is, at some point you may want to port your application to another device. Thus for example, if you are controlling a high-speed camera through a web-based design running on a laptop, you know that eventually you will want to control the camera from a tablet and probably from a cellphone. This book goes well beyond a discussion of responsive website design to present a framework describing three different ecology of devices supporting the same application. About half of the book is devoted to a discussion of what the author calls the "three Cs". Each of the "C"s is an ecology of devices supporting an application. The first "C" is a "consistent design" where the application appears basically the same on all devices. For example, a google search is pretty much the same thing whether you do it on a PC, an iPad, or a cellphone (although as the author points out, on a cellphone you are more likely to enter your search terms with your voice than with a simulated keyboard). The second "C" refers to "continuous design" where you can access content, particularly linear content, seemlessly from different devices. A great example of this is an Amazon Kindle which can track the same content whether you are reading it on your Kindle or listening to the audiobook version on your cellphone. The third "C" are complementary designs where the devices work together to support the same application or user experience but in fundamentally different ways. TV shows that support "second screen" applications on tablets, where the user can read about the show on their iPad while they watch the show on their TV are examples of this kind of user experience. I got the impression that the author thinks this is the really interesting use of multiple devices. The second half of the book discusses issues and use cases for these different ecologies, including such questions as "what happens if the user doesn't have one of the devices?" in a "complementary" design. There are some useful concepts here. If nothing else, if you read this book you will be able to impress your boss or your customer with the depth of your understanding of the issues. Whether "continuous" designs have more than a few obvious use cases and whether "complementary" designs are more than just a fad is not clear to me, but it gives me something to think about.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Gestapo: Power and Terror in the Third Reich; Author: Visit Amazon's Carsten Dams Page; Review: This is a slim volume (182 pages of text not including footnotes) packed with fascinating details. It would have been a faster read for me if nearly every page had not contained some thought-provoking detail. Among many interesting observations, the authors make the point that after the war, it was convenient for the sake of "de-Nazification" that members of the SS and the Gestapo be signalled out for punishment to absolve the rest of the German population from war crimes (I am paraphrasing; I forget the exact wording). Many, many fascinating details, usually backed-up by footnotes so the reader can learn more. For example, the book discusses the problems of staffing Gestapo offices as the Nazi empire expanded (not something that most people would ever think about, I suspect) and mentions that "Towards the end of the war, the urgent need for staff resulted in some truly bizarre appointments: in Frankfurt am Main some of the opera cast were called up." The book should be particularly interesting for students of macro organizational theory and sociologists in general, as it discusses in some detail how the Gestapo evolved from regional "political" police departments around Germany (but particularly in Prussia) into a national organization. I don't know, but I wonder if many organizations leave as much of a paper-trail as the Gestapo evidently did.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Teach Yourself VISUALLY Raspberry Pi; Author: Visit Amazon's Richard Wentk Page; Review: This is an awesome introduction to Raspberry Pi hardware and software especially recommended for newbies and anyone who is wondering what's all the fuss about Raspberry Pi. The book consists primarily of a series of very current screen shots, detailing everything you need to know about buying, setting up, powering up, logging onto, and programming a Raspberry Pi. I own a Raspberry Pi which I bought as an adjunct tool for my work, which involves programming on a similar, embedded target device. As a software engineer, the thing I like about the Raspberry Pi is that it is becoming the standard target platform for all kinds of operating system and public domain projects. I know that if someone asks me about some real-time OS I have not used before I can get an image for it that will run on my Raspberry Pi and I can play with it in a matter of minutes. The book is very up-to-date and current, which is great if you are buying it in May of 2014. I worry it will become obsolete in a year, but that's the nature of hi-tech.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Getting Started with Bluetooth Low Energy: Tools and Techniques for Low-Power Networking; Author: Kevin Townsend; Review: Chances are if you are reading this review you already know more about Bluetooth Low Energy than I did when I received this book. I've been working on embedded firmware in software-defined radios for a number of years and wanted to know more about Bluetooth in general - I had no idea that something called "BLE" was a separate standard within Bluetooth with a completely separate lineage, but I imagine that most people buying this book already know this, but maybe not. This is a pretty good book on the subject of BLE only - I don't think there is any information about "regular" Bluetooth except to say that devices that are compliant with Bluetooth 4.1 can talk to devices supporting either standard. BLE is really really low-bandwidth: it's theoretical upper limit is 1Mbps but as a practical matter packets have only about 20 bytes of user data transmitting at less than 16K/bytes per second. It's also very low power with a theoretical range of about 30 meters clear line-of-sight but more like 2 to 5 meters in actual use. I am a very impatient reader and kept wanting the book to tell me what this kind of capability could be used for - it's not until page 14 (page 14!) that it mentions applications such as transferring body temperature over BLE or beeping "if an item is forgotten when leaving the room". I would prefer that the book start with some of these example use cases, but again, I knew absolutely nothing about BLE when I got this book. The book describes a lot of development kits currently available with links to their webpages - for some reason it doesn't tell you how much these kits are - it wasn't until I started following some of these links that I got really excited about BLE. Most of the kits are only about $100, but the really exciting, mind-blowing thing is that TI sells something called a SensorTag which according to the book includes temperature sensor, humidity sensor, pressure sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer. The book mentions that this device is "relatively inexpensive and easy-to-order" with "example apps for both iOS and Android" but doesn't tell you that it's only $25! What's more, on the SensorTag site you will find all kinds of information about BLE to download for free.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Exercises in Programming Style; Author: Visit Amazon's Cristina Videira Lopes Page; Review: This is a really great book for software engineers. If I were managing a group of developers (as I did earlier in my career) I would buy a copy for each engineer. The book is targeted to either old hacks like me, who enjoy reading about the history of different programming styles, or graduate-level students in computer science. Speaking as an old hack, I felt as though the book was having a conversation with my inner dialogue - things I have thought about to myself but rarely talk about - things like how do you explain to a bad programmer why their program is bad. The author uses one particular programming task: identifying the most common words in a text file and sorting them by frequency and shows 33 different ways of accomplishing the task in Python. She presents the 33 different styles mostly chronologically and notes their historical significance, which is one reason why this book is so much fun for the 62-year-old software engineer in 2014. As it happened, after spending the weekend reading most of this book I had occasion to write a similar file i/o utility in C, so it was very amusing for me to realize that my first stab at it was naturally "monolithic" (the most primitive style). Many many useful concepts. One of the few books I have ever read where it is important to read the preface. The author talks about the "constraints" in any programming project - some of these constraints can be self-imposed: I can remember at one point in my career, about 30 years ago, when I was programming in Pascal, deciding that I would not use any global variables - this would be an example of a self-imposed constraint - and over the years I often find myself deciding to adopt some particular style or "constraint" just to see what would happen. Over the years I have been paid to program in Assembler, "C", Pascal, horizontal microcode, Forth, C++, Java, Python and Javascript and have done coursework using PL/I and Lisp. One of my takeaways from this book is that I would like to learn Haskell.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dataclysm: Who We are (When We Think No One's Looking); Author: Visit Amazon's Christian Rudder Page; Review: This book is by turns funny, fascinating, disturbing, and depressing. The author is a co-founder of "OK Cupid" - a dating website that I, being an old married person, had never heard of. Most of the observations are based on the "big data" collected by his website: every night 40 thousand couples will go on a first date after having met on "OK Cupid" and of these 40 thousand, 200 couples will eventually marry each other. From the data gleaned from millions of users, he can discern, for example, that men tend to approach women who are considered both attractive and ugly by different segments of the total male population (and there are thankfully a few photos of women who are examples of this seemingly odd phenomenon). While most of the book is focussed on the "big data", there is a particularly amusing example of an actual, ridiculous "pickup line" sent by a guy on OK Cupid to 45 different women, five of whom responded to it. Lots of interesting and amusing anecdotes, some of which I'm not sure if I've heard before, like the fact that something like 72 northern soldiers in the American Civil War were said to have died of "nostalgia" (what we would call "homesickness"). Much of what the author reports from his data analysis I fear people will reject out-of-hand because it's not what people want to hear, about racism in America primarily. From what I have read on-line, most of what I would consider the most disturbing conclusions from the data have not been publicized and yet even the relatively mild observations seem objectionable to some people (based on discussions I've had on my Facebook account). I can't speak for other people, but it doesn't bother me that websites collect my likes and dislikes and draw inferences about my private life. Also disturbing and depressing are his observations about the mob mentality we sometimes see on the internet. He worked with the woman who a couple of years ago tweeted an unfortunately bad joke about HIV while boarding a flight to Africa, and it's interesting to read about the incident (mostly forgotten now) from the inside point-of-view. That being said, I love this stuff. I used to have a very expensive subscription to "American Demographics" magazine, just from personal interest, unrelated to my work. When I got my MBA 20 years ago I loved studying stats and did my concentration in marketing because I loved market research and was fascinated by factor analysis. I'm a software engineer and have never really used my MBA professionally, although in 2001 I worked at a "can't-miss" web analytics startup developing tools for websites to track and drill-down in the data they were collecting. Reading this book I realize that instead of creating tools for other people we should have just made yet another dating website, or (as long as we are fantasizing) why didn't we just create Facebook? :-); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Ugly Renaissance: Sex, Greed, Violence and Depravity in an Age of Beauty; Author: Alexander Lee; Review: I hesitated to order this book because I was put off by its apparent premise: that the Italian Renaissance was not all sweetness and light but had a "dark side" - hardly a revelation to anyone, but I decided to read it anyway because I am fascinated by descriptions of daily life in 15th and 16th Century Florence - my favorite part of Ross King's "Brunelleschi's Dome" was the description of herds of sheep within the city walls and I figured it would be entertaining to read about the sex lives of Renaissance Men (and Women). I haven't read Vasari's "Lives of the Artists" since my first visit to Florence 40 years ago this month - I don't remember much of it but I remember loving the stories, and the best of "The Ugly Renaissance" is reminiscent of Vasari if not directly sourced from it. There's a lot of interesting information here - enough for perhaps three shorter books. The first book would be a description of Florence at the time that Michelangelo carved the David - it would be very much like "Brunelleschi's Dome". Some of this is really great, like when he describes Michelangelo's father giving his son a hard time for being a painter and not a banker. The second book would be about the Medici family, and the third book would be a description of Florence during the "Age of Discovery" (which is remarkable because Florentines don't appear to have been interested at all in the discovery of America). These three sections make up the entire "Ugly Renaissance" book somehow bound together by the idea that not everything in Renaissance Florence was beautiful or enlightened. The notion that the Italian Renaissance produced objects of great beauty out of a dark and squalid and smelly time is hardly new and I doubt many people will find this surprising or even interesting in itself. After all, Irving Stone's popular novel about Michelangelo painting the Sistine Chapel is the "Agony and the Ecstacy" not "Peace, Love and Understanding". I got the feeling that the author or the publisher felt that this book needed some kind of "hook" or gimmick to make it appeal to more readers, and I personally found the constant harping on this point a distraction from what is otherwise a pretty good book.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: You Don't Know JS: this & Object Prototypes; Author: Visit Amazon's Kyle Simpson Page; Review: I can't quite decide if this is a great book attempting to teach the subtleties of a cryptic programming language or if the "bad parts" of Javascript just aren't worth knowing about. Ultimately I'm pretty psyched by this book and its approach to the subject matter by focusing on select topics in the language, and I'm really looking forward to reading other books in this "You Don't Know JS" series. I've been putzing about in JS for about a year, teaching myself how to do things by googling individual topics. The only book I've consulted in the past is "Javascript: the Good Parts" - I am very much part of the intended target audience for this book, that is, people who have learned just enough JS "to get by" and use the language just as a way to connect buttons to JSON requests. I confess I did not even know that Javascript has objects or a "this" before reading this book. The entire text of the book is available online as a free pdf file to download. I have no idea why O'Reilly allows this for so many of their books now (I do not think the various sites that offer these downloads are pirating anything). In any case, this is a nicely bound book in a convenient size; I've been putting it in my knapsack and reading it on the train to and from work.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mobile and Web Messaging: Messaging Protocols for Web and Mobile Devices; Author: Jeff Mesnil; Review: This is a very well-organized, well-written book for iOS developers. I was pretty excited by it initially until I realized that all the examples are based on having an iOS device on at least one side of the messaging protocol. Looking at the product description for the book again I see that it does say it's a "hands-on guide" to writing "iOS and web applications" but somehow it didn't occur to me that it would only be about web interfaces to iOS devices. As it happens, I am more interested in low-power, light-weight, web-based communication with embedded Linux devices. I hate to subtract one star from my rating for that reason but I do think the title of the book should be "Mobile and Web Messaging with iOS Devices". I am not an Apple developer and cannot guarantee that the step-by-step instructions in the book and the available online code actually work, but the book is written so well and in so much detail that I would expect it to. If you want to track a classroom of iPhones in a browser this would make an excellent textbook for an engineering course.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Programming JavaScript Applications: Robust Web Architecture with Node, HTML5, and Modern JS Libraries; Author: Visit Amazon's Eric Elliott Page; Review: This is a terrific book - I have been reading it mostly online, which in this particular case I find to be a big improvement in readability vs. the printed book (not always the case for me). Like many O'Reilly publications nowadays the entire text is available online for free. Tons of useful information for anyone who is looking for an intermediate guide to Javascript. My particular interest is in learning more about server-side Javascript and specifically the possibility of using node.js in an embedded environment. The book only mentions embedded application development in passing but I can live with that. The introduction to node.js in this book is excellent. I'm a very experienced programmer (I'm 62-years-old) who has only really noticed the importance of Javascript in the past couple of years. I appreciate this book's "historical" information about Javascript, things like the fact that Microsoft introduced Ajax technology in 2000, because I missed it at the time. In fact, I would like to see more of this kind of background information. I've only worked with client-side Javascript so far, which is why I am intrigued by node.js (as an alternative to Flask actually, which I like for its simplicity) and the whole idea of RESTful JSON Web Services as described in this book. I'm familiar with unit testing frameworks like JUNIT but had not heard of QUNIT until reading this book, and I'm looking forward to using it. Also lots of good helpful hints about coding styles and conventions, and advice on such confusing Javascript questions such as do I need to use semicolons, or not?; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: You Only Live Once: A Lifetime of Experiences for the Explorer in all of us (Lonely Planet); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: I had high expectations for this book but found it a bit disappointing. I enjoy reading travel books for pleasure and like the Lonely Planet series, and the idea of big coffee-table from Lonely Planet about life in general sounds great - kind of like a modern Whole Earth Catalog with color illustrations, I thought, but in its execution I felt really let down. It's a big, heavy book. Obviously intended to be given as a gift, probably, especially for example to a student graduating from High School, I suppose. Someone who has led a sheltered life and hasn't traveled much and probably hasn't read the National Geographic, or spent much time perusing the internet. It's tough for any book like this to compete with the information that is already instantly available on the internet. 30 years ago getting the recipe for a Singapore Sling from Raffle's bar was a big deal - I remember a friend getting it for me after I had neglected to write it down when I was in Singapore - but of course nowadays you can just google it. Still might make a good gift for the right person, however, which is why I give it 3 stars.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: You Only Live Once; Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: I had high expectations for this book but found it a bit disappointing. I enjoy reading travel books for pleasure and like the Lonely Planet series, and the idea of big coffee-table from Lonely Planet about life in general sounds great - kind of like a modern Whole Earth Catalog with color illustrations, I thought, but in its execution I felt really let down. It's a big, heavy book. Obviously intended to be given as a gift, probably, especially for example to a student graduating from High School, I suppose. Someone who has led a sheltered life and hasn't traveled much and probably hasn't read the National Geographic, or spent much time perusing the internet. It's tough for any book like this to compete with the information that is already instantly available on the internet. 30 years ago getting the recipe for a Singapore Sling from Raffle's bar was a big deal - I remember a friend getting it for me after I had neglected to write it down when I was in Singapore - but of course nowadays you can just google it. Still might make a good gift for the right person, however, which is why I give it 3 stars.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Getting Started with Arduino: The Open Source Electronics Prototyping Platform (Make); Author: Visit Amazon's Massimo Banzi Page; Review: I bought an earlier edition of this book four years ago and thought it would be useful to compare the latest edition to the previous. Unfortunately for the life of me I can't find my older copy and fear I may have already donated it to "Books for Africa". No matter, it's still the best introduction to Arduino. My only quibble is that it doesn't compare Arduino to emerging "competitors" in the cheap computer market like Raspberry Pi, which should be easy to do. Arduino is something of a hobbyist standard now and even though you could use the much more powerful Pi as a micro-controller (running RTEMS if you really need a real-time OS) there are so many examples of the Arduino in projects it really hardly matters. If I were to buy an Arduino starter kit today I would probably be looking at "littleBits".; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Paleo Healing Cookbook: Nourishing Recipes for Vibrant Health; Author: Visit Amazon's Rachael Bryant Page; Review: I was not previously aware that the Paleo diet makes claims to fighting auto-immune disorders, but suffering from a chronic condition myself which is thought to be an auto-immune disorder, I was very curious about this cookbook not so much for the recipes but for what it would claim could be its health-benefits. I now realize that this particular cookbook is one of a new genre all addressing the same nutritional theory. All new to me and all very intriguing. It is a very attractive book and would make an excellent gift. Some of the recipes are rather pedestrian, like for example Brussels Sprouts with Shallots and Bacon. If that's not something you eat on a regular basis or have never even heard of, then this is a good cookbook for you. Of particular interest to me was the description of the Paleo diet, which seems to me to be very similar to an Atkins diet except that you are not allowed to eat eggs. I really don't understand the theory especially since it seems to me that Paleolithic humans might easy have had a good supply of eggs if they lived near a pelagic hatching area, for example, so maybe its only domesticated chicken eggs that are forbidden, and not European Storm Petrel eggs. In any case I am receptive to the notion that our diet might determine our microbiome and thus be the root cause of our auto-immune disorders.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Linux Bible, 2008 Edition: Boot up to Ubuntu, Fedora, KNOPPIX, Debian, openSUSE, and 11 Other Distributions; Author: Christopher Negus; Review: This is an excellent, comprehensive, and BIG book about Linux system administration, particularly recommended for people who need to administer Red Hat distributions. Although it's true that much of the contents of this book is applicable to other popular distros such as Ubuntu, a lot of it isn't (RPMs for example). A total noob to Linux these days is probably better off just installing Ubuntu on a machine and learning how to use that - I am sure in some shops, particularly secure environments, Red Hat is still popular, and if you are a Sys Admin who needs to maintain software on a Red Hat server and you've got $30 to spend on a book, this isn't a bad book to get, particularly if you can expense it. Of course nowadays we usually just look for solutions to our problems on the web - the problem of course is that you have to have some idea of what you should be looking for. This book is good at giving you an overview of the different centralized authentication databases for example that you might have to deal with including LDAP, NIS, and Winbind (I mention this because stuff like LDAP is a complete mystery to me, as a Linux software developer). It is not a book about developing applications in a Linux environment - for that I recommend Kerrisk's "The Linux Programming Interface".; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Hardware Startup: Building Your Product, Business, and Brand; Author: Renee DiResta; Review: This is a good book. At its best, it is reminiscent of the Whole Earth Catalog, which the authors allude to in the introduction. Its stated target audience is software engineers who would like to know how to develop and manufacture a hardware product. As such it is full of interesting and eclectic information. At its worst, its a linear introduction to product marketing and brand management. I like this topic well-enough (I did my MBA concentration in marketing) but I doubt this is the sort of information that most readers are really looking for or need in a book like this. Its as though the book suffers from a confused brand identity: half the time it is demanding to be read linearly, each chapter building carefully on the previous, and the rest of the time it is injecting interesting and useful case studies and charts, including for example, a table of wireless options for prototypes. I would prefer that the book just went all-out in the non-linear Whole Earth Catalog, eclectic approach. Personally I found the discussion of patent law a bit lacking. My father, a hardware designer, was literally a professional inventor in the 70s and 80s - his entire focus was to obtain patents for his ideas which he would then peddle to manufacturers, without a great deal of success. It was never a good way to make money, but I learned that when you get an idea, the first thing you do is a patent search to see if the idea is new. We used to fly down to DC to spend the day at the patent office - nowadays it is of course trivial to do a patent search online. Im surprised that the book doesnt mention doing upfront patent searches before developing a prototype. For example, for a number of years Ive had this idea that it would be great if you could point the chute of your snow blower to a particular spot where you want to pile up snow, and then have a sensor guide the chute automatically as you move the snow blower. Anyone who uses a snow blower knows how great this would be. I did a patent search and learned that a major snow blower manufacturer has patented this idea. Suppose I had developed a prototype, raised funds on kickstarter, engaged a manufacturer in Shenzhen, made thousands of these things and then got sued by that major manufacturer for patent infringement. There is actually a case study of patent infringement in the book (which doesnt seem to have effected the company much although the book kind of glosses over it) but no mention that maybe the developers could have easily done a patent search to anticipate the suit.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Electronics For Dummies; Author: Visit Amazon's Cathleen Shamieh Page; Review: The color photographs of breadboarded circuits are why I like this book. The book is more of a reference covering all the usual topics than an "intro to Electronics" - there is one chapter towards the end that has five projects in it, but if you are looking for something to fill in the blanks in your knowledge of electricity, circuits, and components this is a really good book. Although I grew up in a house with a well-stocked electrical engineering laboratory in the basement, I never really thought I quite "got" electronics and pursued a career in software, albeit usually working with hardware engineers. The chapter on inductors is particularly valuable to me. The discussion of Ohm's law in this book is also really good - explaining it and showing a circuit you can breadboard with a potentiometer to play with it, and finally giving a concrete example of how you might use it (to dim a light with an in-series resistor). I definitely consider myself a dummy when it comes to electronics but in some ways perusing this book makes me realize how much I know about hardware without even thinking about it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Black Earth: The Holocaust as History and Warning; Author: Visit Amazon's Timothy Snyder Page; Review: This is an interesting and sometimes provocative book but a very slow read. I am tempted to title my review "Fascinating and Boring" - unless you are the sort of person who reads Robert Nozick's Anarchy, State, and Utopia or Hegel's The Philosophy of History (Dover Philosophical Classics) for pleasure or professional interest I don't particularly recommend it. It is a scholarly work that often lacks the details that can make holocaust studies so compelling. In addition to the printed review copy I purchased the audio version of the book and think the recording is excellent. The text seemed more interesting hearing it read to me after I had already read the chapters, but to be perfectly honest I fell asleep listening to it. I have read a lot of holocaust literature. Broadly speaking, within the genre there are books that I think exploit the subject for commercial purposes, for example Masters of Death: The SS-Einsatzgruppen and the Invention of the Holocaust. This book is at the opposite end of the spectrum, a very serious scholarly work. It makes me want to re-read one of my favorite books, The Politics of Memory: The Journey of a Holocaust Historian to get a sense for how Raoul Hilberg might critique this work.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Normandy & D-Day Beaches Road Trips (Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: I've received three different Lonely Planet "Road Trips" guides to France recently: this one, plus Lonely Planet Provence & Southeast France Road Trips (Travel Guide) and Lonely Planet Chteaux of the Loire Valley Road Trips (Travel Guide) All three share certain characteristics - most of my comments pertain equally to each book, but the bottom line is that if I were planning a road tour of Normandy and could only purchase one guide book I would buy Michelin Green Guide Normandy (Green Guide/Michelin). I like the Michelin Green guides because of their 1, 2, or 3-star ratings for attractions which I find really help when planning an itinerary. I've never really followed the driving itinerary of any guidebook, I suppose because for me, planning a trip is literally half the fun of travel. Each of these Lonely Planet guidebooks includes a page or two about Paris, with identical content. I suppose if I wanted to tour Normandy I would fly to Paris, but the book doesn't really say that, and it doesn't tell me how far Normandy is from Paris by car. Obviously I can figure that out using Google maps, but it's just something I would like to know that I couldn't find in the book. I like Lonely Planet guidebooks and have used them, among other travel books, over the years in a variety of destinations. I enjoy reading guidebooks for pleasure and these Road Trips books do inspire me to tour the backroads of France. Although I spent a number of months in Paris 40 years ago and enjoy speaking French, I have never driven in France although I have since toured Italy by car extensively, a consequence of marrying a native Italian 40 years ago. Three years ago we spent a week in Paris to celebrate my 60th birthday - we had a great time but the city is now so overwhelmed by crowds of tourists from all over the world we thought that next time we visited France we would tour the countryside.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Provence & Southeast France Road Trips (Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: I've received three different Lonely Planet "Road Trips" guides to France recently: this one, plus Lonely Planet Normandy & D-Day Beaches Road Trips (Travel Guide) and Lonely Planet Chteaux of the Loire Valley Road Trips (Travel Guide) All three share certain characteristics - of the three I find this the most inspiring but I think if I were planning a road trip to Provence and could only purchase one guide book I would buy Michelin Green Guide Provence (Green Guide/Michelin). I like the Michelin Green guides because of their 1, 2, or 3-star ratings for attractions which I find really help when planning an itinerary. I've never really followed the driving itinerary of any guidebook, I suppose because for me, planning a trip is literally half the fun of travel. One of the details that I find lacking in these particular Lonely Planet guide is some hint as to where I would actually fly into France to start my itinerary. Each book has a page or two (with the same content) devoted to Paris so the implication is that I would fly into Paris, I guess. I noticed that the Michelin Green Guide to Provence suggests Marseille as an embarkation point for a tour of Provence. It's just something I wanted to know that I couldn't find in this book.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Chateaux of the Loire Valley Road Trips (Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: I've received three different Lonely Planet "Road Trips" guides to France recently: this one, plus Lonely Planet Normandy & D-Day Beaches Road Trips (Travel Guide) and Lonely Planet Provence & Southeast France Road Trips (Travel Guide). All three share certain characteristics and most of my comments pertain to all three books, but the bottom line is that if I could only buy one guidebook to Loire Valley I would probably get Michelin Green Guide Chateaux of the Loire (Green Guide/Michelin) instead of this one. I like the Michelin Green guides because of their 1, 2, or 3-star ratings for attractions which I find really help when planning an itinerary. I've never really followed the driving itinerary of any guidebook, I suppose because for me, planning a trip is literally half the fun of travel. I do like this book's suggested tour of Medieval Burgundy and have always wanted to visit Cluny in particular. I spent a number of months in Paris 40 years ago and enjoy speaking French, but I have never driven in France although I have since toured Italy by car extensively, a consequence of marrying a native Italian 40 years ago. Three years ago we spent a week in Paris to celebrate my 60th birthday - we had a great time but the city is now so overwhelmed by crowds of tourists from all over the world we thought that next time we visited France we would tour the countryside.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Agile Metrics in Action: Measuring and Enhancing the Performance of Agile Teams; Author: Visit Amazon's Christopher W. H. Davis Page; Review: I have been reading this book in fits and starts over the past month, trying to decide if it's good or bad. I am 63-years-old and still writing code. The grumpy old man in me can't believe that anyone wrote a book about software metrics without a bibliography or acknowledging the seminal work in the field by Grady and Caswell (Software Metrics: Establishing a Company-Wide Program) and Boehm (Software Engineering Economics). But this is a good book, even if it appears to be written by someone with no knowledge of the field before Extreme Programming came along. The book starts out by acknowledging that a common principle of Agile development is Only measure what matters but then dismisses that idea by calling it a bad tenet because How do you know what matters? When do you start tracking new things and when do you stop tracking others? Because these are hard questions, metrics end up getting thrown by the wayside when they could be providing value. A better wording would be measure everything and figure out why metrics change unexpectedly. I read this and thought get off my lawn! How can anyone write a book about metrics and not tell us how to measure what matters? But sure enough, most of the rest of the text addresses the fundamental issue of figuring out what matters, and to whom. The author relies on an analysis tool called mind mapping which is new to me. From what I can gather about this technique (from googling it) I can imagine he conceived of a book about Agile Software Metrics and then broke it down into component parts. The book is well-organized, sometimes to a fault: each chapter starts with an outline of what he is going to say, then he says it, and then he closes the chapter by summarizing what he said. Sometimes this is really good, like when you been reading the book in stolen moments at work and at home (as I did, mostly), but other times it gets a bit tedious and I found myself thinking could we possibly just get to the point? The final chapter is the best, talking about Agile principles in general and getting into some specific metrics that can be useful and are measurable. A lot of the book leading up to final chapter is more descriptive of the different stages of Agile development, what tools are available at each stage to collect metrics, and how different people in the organization have different questions they want answered by metrics. I found the discussion of Continuous Development to be really interesting it actually got me to recall an article I read 31 years ago in Scientific American (September 1984) by Alan Kay about the software and where it might be heading in the future, back then.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Personal Finance After 50 For Dummies; Author: Eric Tyson; Review: This isn't a bad book, but I think it makes me feel less clear about my finances than I did before reading it. Maybe that's not a bad thing. My specific interest in this book was that I thought it might be a good primer for some of my siblings who could use some guidance in managing their inheritance. The book doesn't really address this issue directly except to offer some advice about how to manage your own estate. I think for a book about "Personal Finance After 50" this is an oversight: a lot of people "over 50" inherit property. Some of the advice in the book, even for a "Dummies" book is kind of silly: is there anyone who doesn't know that you can save money by preparing meals at home and eating out less often? The larger point, that frugality can be a wealth-builder, is more clearly made by such classic money books as The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy, and maybe that's what the authors of this book were trying to say. The book does make me wonder if I should buy some bonds. A lot of financial books make me wonder about that, but there's no specific advice about how exactly I would buy a bond. I've been buying and selling common stocks for nearly 50 years but I've never bought an individual corporate or municipal bond and I really don't know how I would. I suppose I need to read Investing in Bonds For Dummies. Instead of this book, I recommend The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need. I think it's a much better book than this one for people of any age.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Investing in Bonds For Dummies; Author: Visit Amazon's Russell Wild Page; Review: I'm often disappointed by books in the "Dummies" series but this is exactly the elementary introduction to investing in bonds that I was looking for. I've followed the stock market and bought and sold individual stocks since I was child but I've never bought an individual bond. Financial advice books like Personal Finance After 50 For Dummies routinely mention that people should have a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds but they never seem to explain how exactly one would go about buying a bond. I think the expectation is that you need to consult a financial advisor or a full-service broker but I am loathe to spend money on financial advice that I should be able to learn on my own. This book explains why buying bonds online, although doable, is not as straightforward or inexpensive as buying common stock online simply because the bond market has not undergone the revolution in reduced fees that the stock market has seen (I remember the days before discount brokers to say nothing of online trading). Some key takeaways from this book include: you need about $350,000 to make buying individual bonds make sense, otherwise stick to bond funds or ETFs, and if you do buy individual bonds, don't expect to sell them before maturity because of the (mostly hidden) fees you will incur. The author is mostly familiar with online bond-buying through Fidelity, which is fine with me personally but his tips may or may not apply to other brokers. I haven't yet decided if I should devote a significant portion of my portfolio to individual bonds but I now at least understand how to research the hidden fees and how I might go about building a "ladder" of diversified bonds.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rails, Angular, Postgres, and Bootstrap: Powerful, Effective, and Efficient Full-Stack Web Development; Author: Visit Amazon's David B. Copeland Page; Review: I absolutely love this book. I know next-to-nothing about Ruby on Rails or Postgres or Angular.js. I've used bootstrap and have a hacker's understanding of Javascript and css, so I was really hoping this would be a firehose introduction to a complete web stack, and that's what it is. It's really a book for very senior software developers. If you are not familiar with installing software packages on the command line, do not buy this book. The book is wonderfully OS-agnostic. I love that. No tiresome discussions about differences between Linux and OS X and Windows - the author basically just says "we are doing this on the command line" and it's up to you to figure out the stuff that is specific to your development environment. I've completed the instructions on my Ubuntu 14.04 desktop machine up to the point where I have a Ruby on Rails application registering me as a user in a database. There are a couple of details missing from the text that I managed to figure out by googling error messages. Basically you will need to install some development packages, in particular, you will need to install libpq-dev and postgresql-dev. There is also some trickery to get the right version (9.4) of postgresql. Like I said, just google the errors messages you get and you will find the answers. Another thing I really like about the book is that it references JavaScript: The Good Parts for those needing an introduction to JS - this is a sure sign that the author knows what he is talking about. Based on that, I have ordered his recommended Agile Web Development with Rails 4 (Facets of Ruby) so I can learn more about the fundamentals of Rails.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Raspberry Pi Electronics Projects for the Evil Genius; Author: Donald Norris; Review: I confess my initial impression was one of disappointment until I realized I was reading an uncorrected proof: I assume that the book will have the missing appendices and index when it is published next month! I also expect that it will make some mention of the Raspberry Pi 3, which I have been using for maybe two or three weeks now - this seemed like a glaring omission although based on my experience with the new model I don't see how it would make much difference to the projects here. A number of the projects are particularly exciting to me: this book is worth it just for Chapter 5 alone, where he shows how to make an MPI-based cluster of 8 Raspberry Pis. Just to be clear: he admits that you won't get the compute performance you would get with a single Intel Core i7, but that really isn't the point. A cluster of Pis is a great way to prototype a more expensive system and learn how to design MPI-based software. I've worked on a high-end "multi-blade" system with an MPI message system and it's a blast. I also like the chapter on RasPI to RasPI communication with MQTT and I thought the chapter on Software-Defined Radio (SDR) was very well written (a topic I have a lot of experience in).; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Car Hacker's Handbook: A Guide for the Penetration Tester; Author: Visit Amazon's Craig Smith Page; Review: This is a really good book, very well-written, with tons of information for anyone interested in automotive software. It would make a really good textbook for a high school or college-level course in the subject. The main title is a little bit provocative, as the emphasis is really on the sub-title "A Guide for the Penetration Tester" - although it's a two-edged sword: hard to discuss the vulnerabilities of any system without showing how to exploit them. Note that the target audience for this book is really people who are doing software design and analysis with Linux-based tools. If you are not using Linux (or don't know anything about it) then this book is probably not for you. On the other hand, if you are familiar with Wireshark, and want to learn how to analyze a CAN network, this book is exactly what you need. I've been working with simple Arduino CAN Bus shields lately for work, including both CAN-BUS Shield Compatible with Arduino and Seeeduino and Sparkfun CAN-BUS Shield for Arduino and compatibles and was naturally curious about how I might tap into a car's CAN Bus, although my application space is aeronautics not automative. This book is much, much better than the slim pamphlet I bought earlier Controller Area Network Prototyping with Arduino (which I don't recommend at all at any price). The Linux-based CAN utilities described in this book, are very useful to me.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Learning JavaScript: JavaScript Essentials for Modern Application Development; Author: Ethan Brown; Review: This is a terrific book. I learned a lot just following the instructions in Chapter 2 about the development environment on my Macbook Air. Like a lot of software engineers, I suspect, my knowledge of JavaScript has been learned on the job and from reading the great JavaScript: The Good Parts, and so there is a lot here that I had not been exposed to previously. The book uses the new JavaScript standard ES6 but shows how you can setup your development environment to automatically generate ES5 code using Babel. The author also provides a quick introduction to Git (of which I am very familiar) but also npm, a package manager similar to apt, gulp, a build tool, node.js, and eslint. All the work I have done previously in JS has been browser-based using a Python Flask server and Bootstrap, so I am particularly excited about doing standalone JS development with Node. Novice programmers may find all this intimidating but if you can get through this book you will learn and master a ton of good stuff. I ran into one issue with the examples that I managed to solve by checking the online errata (more like a forum post actually), and that was because I failed to note (on page 26) that the template strings are delimited with back-ticks and not apostrophes. Once I caught that error (on my part) everything just works. I'm very excited about this book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Italy (Travel Guide); Author: Lonely Planet; Review: This is really good, up-to-date and accurate guide to all there is in Italy. I have toured Italy about a dozen times since 1974 and consider myself something of an aficionado of guidebooks to Italy (I collect them), having said that, what I do not like about this particular guidebook is that it doesn't prioritize sites and destinations for you - for that you need an 40-year-old edition of the Michelin Green Guide with its star-rating system. What I do like about this book is the accuracy of descriptions of some of the more obscure places that I know well, like Norcia, for example, which despite all the tours of done of the country I had never even heard of prior to 2013 (there's always something new to discover) but I've been to now on two different trips. Again, however, because the book doesn't prioritize destinations there is really no negativity here, such as you might find in Rick Steves, for example (I recall his disparaging comments about Cortina d'Ampezzo). My favorite guide books are those in the "Authentic Italy" series published by the Touring Club of Italy, such as Authentic Tuscany (Authentic Italy). They are unfortunately out-of-print and as far as I know focused on specific regions. If you are looking for a large, heavy, encyclopedic volume with tons of good information, this book will not lead you astray.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Rome (Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: This is a terrific guidebook with lots of easy-to-read, up-to-date, accurate information about Rome for tourists. I collect guidebooks to Italy and like them all for different reasons. My favorite single guidebook for Rome is still probably Authentic Rome (Authentic Italy) but this is right up there, especially for people who have never been there. I have always relied on Frommer's for accommodation recommendations specifically and would still consult Frommer's Rome (Frommer's Complete Guides) to find a place to stay (although the last time we spent a week in Rome we stayed in a rented apartment near the Colosseum and that was great). But if you are looking for one guidebook to Rome with reliably accurate information, you won't go wrong buying this one. I suppose nowadays most people would get the Kindle edition for travel purposes, but as an aside, I really like the tactile feel of this book: it feels great to hold and read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Pocket Rome (Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: This is a disappointing effort especially considering how much I like its big brother Lonely Planet Rome (Travel Guide) - too much space devoted to listing restaurants in such a small volume - I realize newcomers to Rome often ask for restaurant recommendations but its hard to find a bad restaurant in Italy, and half the fun of exploring a neighborhood is discovering a new place to eat by chance. Although someone who buys this book is probably not going to be driving to Rome, I nevertheless think it odd that the topic of driving is not mentioned anywhere in the guide. I think there is still a place for little pocket guides to cities primarily for first-time visitors with a couple of days for sight-seeing. I really liked Top 10 Naples & Amalfi Coast (EYEWITNESS TOP 10 TRAVEL GUIDES) for example and I wonder if the equivalent guide to Rome wouldn't be a good choice. The thing is of course that nowadays if you have the right cellphone plan you can get free unlimited data all over Italy so if you have a smartphone it's not clear to me why you need a little guidebook in your pocket.; Rating: 2.0/5.0 Title: Black Notebook; Author: Visit Amazon's Patrick Modiano Page; Review: I spent a number of months on three occasions in Paris in the 70s which remain some of the most interesting experiences of my life - I was intrigued enough by the blurb for this book to read it as an act of nostalgia and in this regard it exceeded my expectations. It's written by a Nobel prize winner and is only 131 pages long. For anyone who was a student in Paris in the 60s or 70s this is like arrondissement porn, as the author describes moving from one cafe to another mostly on the left bank in and around Montparnasse, before Tour Montparnasse was built. As it happens these were my old stomping grounds as I took language classes at the Alliance Francaise, and I loved reading about the old neighborhood. As a story its pretty obscure. In my day in creative writing class we were taught to write scenes, about particular people doing, saying, and thinking particular things. There are only a couple such scenes in this book - a lot of the plot we are apparently meant to infer, like, most notably, the nature of the protagonists relationship with the girl. I got hung up a little bit on such plot points as, who fed the dog at the country house when they went back to the city. The book reminds me a bit of The Comfort of Strangers, which is set in Venice without ever stating that simple fact explicitly.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Italy (Travel Guide); Author: Lonely Planet; Review: This is a good, general introduction to Italy for first-time visitors. It covers all the well-known destinations (leaving out a few of my favorites that are still mostly off the well-trod tourist path). I would give it five stars if it didn't devote precious page space to restaurant and hotel recommendations. The best guidebooks like Authentic Tuscany (Authentic Italy) don't bother listing restaurants but tell you instead what the local specialties are - you want to know what cheese to eat in a particular town, not exactly where to eat it. I've been to every place mentioned in this book except for Cinque Terre and Sicily, and think the information here is up-to-date and reliable. If you are planning your first trip to Italy you could do worse than to peruse this book to help you in your planning.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Arduino: A Technical Reference: A Handbook for Technicians, Engineers, and Makers (In a Nutshell); Author: J. M. Hughes; Review: This is a big book (over 600 pages) and represents a lot of work by the author. I'm glad to have a copy for free and think it would probably be worth buying, despite the amount of information you can find on the web for free about Arduino components. I've played around with a lot of different low-cost development boards including Arduino, Beagleboard, Beaglebone, and even an Onion Omega that I found on Kickstarter. The thing I like about Arduino is the number of really cheap shields for different applications. Recently at work I was playing with the CAN bus on a TI development board and wanted an inexpensive CAN device to talk to: Arduino parts were perfect for this as for less than $50 I could breadboard an Arduino-based CAN device on my lab bench (a lot easier than trying to connect to the CAN bus in my car). The utility of a big book like this is that you might stumble upon something useful that you had no idea you didn't know, and wouldn't have thought to go looking for. For example, thanks to this book I now know about DuinoKit Essentials & Accessory Pack, Arduino Based Discovery System which is something that I am now awfully tempted to buy (maybe that's not such a good thing :-) ). The only reason I do not give the book 5-stars is that it's not cheap, or free, and doesn't contain every piece of information about Arduino-related stuff in the known universe. For example, it mentions early on that you could use an Arduino Nano in a small, solar-powered sensor, but there is nothing in the book that talks about a solar panel for an Arduino. So basically I'm comparing this book to all the free information available on the web.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The 60s: The Story of a Decade (New Yorker: The Story of a Decade); Author: The New Yorker Magazine; Review: I'm surprised by how much I enjoy this anthology. Let me first mention a couple of things that were not clear to me when I ordered the book based on the earlier reviews I read: there are no cartoons nor are there any of those little, amusing snippets that the New Yorker used to publish in every issue. Nor is there any poetry (Dickey's "Falling" being an obvious candidate for inclusion in this anthology). This book is a selection of interesting articles published by the New Yorker during the Sixties, loosely group by topic and introduced by short, informative essays. I grew up with the New Yorker in my home and still subscribe. Of the articles in this anthology, the only one I am certain I read at the time was Nat Hentoff's 1964 profile of Bob Dylan, who was my idol when I was 12. Perhaps not coincidentally with the publication of the book the New Yorker recently put that article online (you can find it by googling Nat Hentoff New Yorker Bob Dylan), so as it happens I had read it again not long ago. The only other piece that I remember reading was John Updike's famous short story "A&P" which we read in English class during my freshman year in high school. Oh, and I've read "In Cold Blood". Of course the interesting stuff is what I don't remember or didn't read at the time. I was particularly fascinated by the contemporary account of the student strike at Harvard in 1969, which I heard a lot about at the time from my older brother, who was a senior there that year. The description of events and the opinions of moderate students seem very accurate today. The whole idea of revolutionaries at Harvard seems kind of crazy now.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Core Data in Swift: Data Storage and Management for iOS and OS X; Author: Marcus S. Zarra; Review: My interest in this book was primarily as an introduction to Swift and iOS programming in general. Although I've been gainfully employed as a software engineer for 40 years and love my iPhone, MacBook, and this iPad I am typing on to write this review, I've yet to do any iOS programming. At my age I find the things that interest me most are those I know nothing about. This book is pretty clear that if you know nothing about Swift you should start with another book, and I don't disagree. The author compares this book to an introduction to transmissions for auto mechanics, but not an introduction to automobiles. It at least got me interested in looking elsewhere for an introduction to iOS programming.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Wolf Haven: Sanctuary and the Future of Wolves in North America; Author: Visit Amazon's Brenda Peterson Page; Review: Chances are if you are reading this review you already know that Wolf Haven is some kind of sanctuary for wolves, somewhere in Washington State. There's nothing in the book itself that explains this however, or gives any information about the sanctuary at all. Mostly it's a book of photographs of wolves, in this sanctuary apparently.. The thing that struck me about the photos is how much they look like dogs. I saw a timber wolf in captivity in New Hampshire (there used to be an open air zoo/sanctuary in Crawford Notch) about 50 years ago. I was hoping to learn a bit more about wolves and not just these particular wolves who live in this particular sanctuary, whatever it is. I suspect this is a book that is meant to be sold in the gift shop at the sanctuary. Fine if you want some pictures of these wolves.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Japaneseness: A Guide to Values and Virtues; Author: Yoji Yamakuse; Review: This is a really excellent, little book. Much more erudite and scholarly than I had imagined from the brief description I saw on Amazon (for some reason I thought it was kind of a cheesy self-help book). It's more like something you would expect to see published by Tuttle. The preface references The Anatomy of Dependence among other well-known works. Translated from the Japanese, it briefly describes various Japanese concepts, each with its own Kanji. Topics include such disparate things as "filial piety", "thoughtfulness" and "chic". I think there are about 50 such concepts covered. It's a very easy read and something I will return to again and again. I will probably keep this by my toilet.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: To Pixar and Beyond: My Unlikely Journey with Steve Jobs to Make Entertainment History; Author: Visit Amazon's Lawrence Levy Page; Review: A little dull, but I enjoy reading "inside" stories of the computer industry, and the computer graphics business in particular. I worked at various computer graphics and game companies in Massachusetts at the time the events of this book took place. I attended every Siggraph convention for something like 15 consecutive years, so I remember Pixar when they were selling Renderman. I also have an MBA so I enjoy reading and "solving" case studies. Lots of interesting information here but after a while reading this I came to realize that what's missing is any inside "dirt" on the people - everybody Levy meets has an infectious smile and larger-than-life personality. It's a nice world-view, and this is an uplifting book in that way, but it's not nearly as interesting as, for example, High Stakes, No Prisoners : A Winner's Tale of Greed and Glory in the Internet Wars a marvelously entertaining book that describes the start-up experience around the same time as the author was figuring out what to do with Pixar. An excellent reminder of how perilous the entertainment content business is.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fodor's Oahu: with Honolulu, Waikiki & the North Shore (Full-color Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Fodor's Travel Guides Page; Review: I've only ever been to Hawaii on business, and have only stayed on the island of Oahu as a layover to or from Australia or the Marshall Islands. I'd love to be able to spend more time there (I've managed to see the Arizona memorial and the Bowfish on the day of my flight out) and this guidebook certainly reinforces that thought. It's probably never going to happen: Hawaii is a bit far to reach from Boston considering all the travel choices we have in the other direction (i.e. Europe), but I can dream can't I? There's something about Honolulu as a vacation destination that I find alluring.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Intelligence: From Secrets to Policy; Author: Visit Amazon's Mark M. Lowenthal Page; Review: I received this book a week before the presidential election and remember my first impression that it was extremely up-to-date: I could find any current topic I could think of in the index, for example "stuxnet", "Wikileaks" or "Snowden". The book is still up-to-date except for the fact that there is no mention of the current President, even as a possibility (although Mike Flynn is referenced a couple of times) and certainly nothing about hacking the DNC and the leak of Podesta's risotto recipe. No matter, it's still fascinating stuff if a bit depressing given our unexpected state of affairs. I would love to take a course that used this book as its primary text. I particularly enjoy the discussion of managing analysts and the political games competing agencies play.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Speak and Read Chinese: Fun Mnemonic Devices for Remembering Chinese Words and Their Tones; Author: Visit Amazon's Larry Herzberg Page; Review: First-year students of Mandarin will find this book very useful. You can't learn Chinese from this book alone, I don't think, as you need someone to teach you the tones, but it's got really useful mnemonics for remembering specific words. For example, you can remember that "wo" means "I" because "woe is me". Yes, the mnemonics are that silly, but they are useful. The words are listed alphabetically by romanized Chinese, and indexed by English meaning. I wish I had had a book like this when I studied Chinese as an undergraduate 40 years ago, when the only textbooks for English speakers were directly translated from Russian.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Make: Drones: Teach an Arduino to Fly; Author: Visit Amazon's David McGriffy Page; Review: This is a really cool book. I am a bit overwhelmed by all the information. I have been using all kinds of Arduino boards and shields at work as very low-cost test peripherals (CAN BUS and SPI bus mostly) and I would love an excuse to build a drone. I have not taken the plunge and ordered an S500 frame kit to build a drone as outlined in this book but it is extremely tempting. One of the the things I like about Arduino is that the parts are so cheap I just order them for later consumption- it looks like the most expensive S500 kit is $170 ( that's for a complete combo kit ) which is the upper range of an impulse buy for me. Need to do some more study. Anyway, I am very impressed by this book and recommend it even though like I say I haven't taken the plunge to actually build and launch an Arduino drone quite yet.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Crushing It in Apartments and Commercial Real Estate: How a Small Investor Can Make It Big; Author: Visit Amazon's Brian H Murray Page; Review: This is a sincere book that I guess is a good introduction to buying commercial real estate. I call it "sincere" because it is not one of those get rich schemes you still sometimes see advertised on TV. I say "I guess" because although I find the concepts presented in this book intriguing I haven't actually bought an office building yet. Some of the ideas in the book aren't really earth-shattering. The author did his "field work" in upper New York State, an area where there is lots of relatively cheap real estate. The locations I know about and might invest in are not exactly underserved or unnoticed by large developers.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fodor's Florence & Tuscany: with Assisi and the Best of Umbria (Full-color Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Fodor's Travel Guides Page; Review: I collect travel guides to Italy - I can't say that Fodor's are my favorites, but I pretty much like perusing any travel guide to Italy and there is really nothing wrong with this one. If I had to pick one guide to Tuscany, it would probably be Authentic Tuscany (Authentic Italy) even though it is currently out of print. Nowadays unless you are a collector, I am not sure why anyone buys hardcopy travel guides at all: it makes much more sense to read them on the tablet or Kindle, when you are travelling. You won't go wrong reading this Fodor's guide in any case.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: A Cabinet of Ancient Medical Curiosities: Strange Tales and Surprising Facts from the Healing Arts of Greece and Rome; Author: J.C. McKeown; Review: It's an attractive, well-made book that will look nice on your shelf. The content isn't nearly as interesting as it sounds. There's just so many goofy prescriptions you can read. I think I could make this sound interesting, and maybe it sounds interesting, but really my reaction is "meh".; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Enjoy Learning Japanese Kanji: Discover their Hidden Meanings; Author: Kyung Yong Kong; Review: When I studied Japanese as an undergraduate 40 years there were no more than a handful of books to aid English-speaking students in the language. I do wish I had had this book way back when. It's a great learning aid.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lonely Planet Iceland's Ring Road (Travel Guide); Author: Visit Amazon's Lonely Planet Page; Review: I have only passed through Reykjavik on the way to and from Europe - Iceland is a pretty easy flight from Boston. This is a really intriguing book - I do note however that to really do the trip they suggest you need two weeks - I am not sure I have two weeks to spend exploring Iceland. A friend of mine recently spent a week on vacation in a small cabin in Iceland, and it looked like the most boring experience imaginable, so I think if I ever take some time to stay in the country it would be better to keep moving.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	amazon_books
Given the interaction history of a user with books as follows: Title: Seduction in Session (The Perfect Gentlemen, #2); Author: Shayla Black; Genres: young-adult, mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: I enjoy this series immensely so far. Sometimes the pacing is a bit off- balancing background dialogue and action. The complicated story line does seem to coalesce nicely toward the end. I enjoy the male and female characters immensely. I can't say the title actually matches the story though. The theme of dark sacrifice being redeemed by the light of love could have called for another title. Thanks ladies, venerable and talented authors that you are, for a sexy and enjoyable read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Scandal Never Sleeps (The Perfect Gentlemen, #1); Author: Shayla Black; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: A thoroughly enjoyable read. I loved the tension between the main characters. It was sexy and gripping within this extraordinary tale of suspense. This book was the reason I read the second in the series and I am so looking forward to the third book. Wonderful piece of work ladies, Thank you for the pleasure of enjoying your skill in the craft.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Liege of Dark Haven (Mountain Masters & Dark Haven, #5); Author: Cherise Sinclair; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: While reading Ms. Sinclair's Dark Haven series is a real education in alternative sexual lifestyles. The story sometimes gets lost in the abundance of sex scenes. I am not complaining too loudly because the scenes themselves are rather enticing and enjoyable to read but sometimes the effect of too much and esoteric sex diminishes the overall pleasure of the read. I enjoyed the physical characteristics attributed to both the main male and female character.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mean Streak; Author: Sandra Brown; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: Ms. Brown is a masterful author. Her pacing is superb. These characters were surprisingly very sexy. The suspense in this story was thrilling. She is definitely one of the best at her craft.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fates and Furies; Author: Lauren Groff; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: This novel is a richly woven tapestry of life's vicissitudes wrapped up in the allegory of ancient cultures and artistic endeavor. It truly is a masterful work filled with themes layered on top of eaxh other. This book makes the reader think and it amuses. One is a better person for having read this book for the insight that is generously offered. This is a book I will treasure. The author is well versed in in her study of the ancients and she has a masterful command of the human condition as she brings to life her characters,; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Fifty Shades of Grey (Fifty Shades, #1); Author: E.L. James; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: I have just read the entire trilogy to include Grey and find the story haunting me. I do so enjoy this genre and purposely saved reading this trilogy for awhile. I believe that Ms. James has a singular talent for describing tantalizing "scenes". I enjoyed the character development of both main characters throughout the three novels. Her prose has descriptive beauty and there was exciting tension in the story as it unfolded through the series. The film did not do the first novel justice. I was glad to have waited a little while after the film to read this captivating series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Madame X (Madame X, #1); Author: Jasinda Wilder; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: spoiler alert Captivating story!!! The continuity of the story-line was well done. Exciting! The writing elicited an emotional response in me. The story itself moved me. I am reserving judgement on all the characters until they are fully developed. I read the second book in this series. It was interesting but the story became bogged down in the machinations of the plot. It is a must read to hopefully get to the resolution and culmination of events in the last book. I am looking forward to the last book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: To Hate Adam Connor; Author: Ella Maise; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Sexy, fun, romantic read. Entertaining,humorous read with just the right amount of sexy angst. Overall good basic storytelling with some fun plot suspense. I just loved the main character's musings about sex and love.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Master Over You; Author: Ethan Winters; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: A Challenging Intense Erotic Work At its best, it is story of finding the light of love for that one special someone inside your own corrupted and violated self. A very difficult story to tell and even read. I had some difficulty with the character development of Chastity. The ending seemed abrupt. I needed deeper resolution to this intense kinky all be it true love. Despite just a few shortcomings, time and energy well spent.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dark Notes; Author: Pam Godwin; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: A captivating "hot for teacher" romance written in a beautiful lyrical style of prose with just the right amount of dissonant dirty. the machinations of the characters added to a exciting plot climax. No great romantic truths or discoveries were made during the story but the musical analogies were clever and interesting. The writer employed clever ideas about the sexual experience in and around music both classical and contemporary.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mr. Romantic (Mister, #2); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: Another chapter in an interesting 5 part or 5 man mystery Mr Romantic was most definitely a darker erotic character. I only wish I could have got to know him better. The intimate scenes would have been more believable if after the rough stuff, there was more tenderness and communication. Certainly I look forward to the next book, Mr Corporate. Looking forward to answers to the lingering questions and complete resolve of the plot.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Three Way, the Novel; Author: Olivia Hawthorne; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: "Twins" A naughty pleasurable escape to read this fantastical tale of a woman who ended up with double the yummy pleasure and double the fun. Add true love, a baby and reluctantly accepting parents of the threesome and you have a delightful adult fairy tale. No worries, this is a true adult tale with some page turning intimate scenes. One small complaint, some of the "a-hem" love scenes were a bit rushed and summarized. With so delicious a set-up, more detail and better care with emotional description would have vastly improve the book.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Mercy Fck; Author: K.S. Adkins; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: Gritty and entertaining! Yes the language is raw but even the most erudite of readers enjoy a good dirty guilty pleasure; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bossman; Author: Vi Keeland; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Halfway through the story becomes intense and satisfying The first part of the book has slower pacing. Hang in reading the book. The story takes off when the two main characters finally succumb to their attraction for one another. The intimate scenes are panty melting hot. Even the slow start of the first section of the book makes sense as the writer develops the male protagonist, who is a delicious hunk of alpha male. Great story telling. A great lesson in letting go of some of the damage done by violent experiences.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: How to Fool All of the People, All of the Time; Author: John Connolly; Genres: history, non-fiction, biography, historical fiction; Review: WOW! Eye opening! Should be a must read before casting the 2016 vote. Does a leopard ever change his spots? After all he did say he would apply his business acumen and knowledge when he held the presidency.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pennies (Dollar, #1); Author: Pepper Winters; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: A Great start to a new Dark Romance! Ms Winters is one of my favorite authors and her epic stories never disappoint. The beginning of this story, actually for a good portion of the book, our heroine endures severe abuse. It is sexual, physical, emotional and psychological abuse. Her comfort comes from writing to "No One". As the story evolves, she catches the eye of another who guards her healing soul. He reluctantly rescues her in an intensely dramatic scene.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Diamonds (All That Glitters #1); Author: K.A. Linde; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: Ooooh those married men... Just loved the pacing of this book!!! Could not put it down! Great writing. Wonderfully descriptive. "She swallowed, barely breathing, as she felt the gentlest of brushes. A taste. A test." Why does this taboo have to be so sweet? Cannot wait to read on. This book ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Assistant; Author: Ramona Gray; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Talented love scene writer! This author writes extraordinary love (sex) scenes. It was a delightful escape from reality romance novel with a sexy bite. The story followed the classic romance novel arc. I loved the curvy female protagonist discovering the worth of her attributes.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Destroyed; Author: Pepper Winters; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: Angst driven, pleasure packed joy to read! I so enjoy the Gothic- like phantasmagoric description of the male protagonist's lair. This author's gift for description hypnotises and transports the reader to hidden realms; be it cold snowy Russia or the dark illegal fight club pits. Along with her description of the physical is her incisive portrayals of the main characters fluid, deep and evolving emotions. It is an engrossing read. What is destroyed ultimately is destruction itself. Redemption is found in new life. Thank you for such a darkly disturbing and lovely story!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sweet as Sin (Bad Habit, #1); Author: J.T. Geissinger; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Entertaining story line with page-turner pacing! The author develops the two main characters through trust. She shows the paths people take in choice to deal with hurtful issues that leave you stalled in life. The friendly,romantic quips in the fast paced dialog contributes to the excellent pacing of the story. This writer writes of big, all consuming love that inspires your heart and emotions, captures and holds hostage your sexual response and had me highlighting profound truths so timely and so eloquently expressed. The story gets super exciting toward the end of the book. I was so engrossed I could not put it down. The erotic banter between our main couple is exciting tingly and warm. Delightful character development of the lovers . Happily there are some wonderful quotes around profound observations of life. I get what the author was trying to do by making the male lead drop his "g's" while he was speaking. I just wanted such a beautifully described male to speak a little better. Generally singers do speak well no matter their education or background. This is only more of a personal preference. Even so, this book makes your heart happy to read!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Make Me Sin (Bad Habit, #2); Author: J.T. Geissinger; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Love this story! I truly was engrossed by this well written story. It had depth of elements not normally found in this somewhat formulaic genre. A genre I wholeheartedly enjoy. I loved the page turning pace of this story. I enjoyed the mysterious angst of the male protagonist with the source of his pain slowly unveiling itself to his love and the reader. I appreciated the bittersweet flavor of the end. Actually it left me wanting more. I must mention that along with being exciting, it was a sexy,"smoking hot" read.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Reign; Author: Roxie Noir; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: A Lighthearted Royal Romance This was an imaginative delight of a romance story. The setting while fictional, had enough elements of believability to make it more than your average erotic fairytale. The main characters (the prince and the commoner) are written with sufficient depth and combustibility to keep you happily entertained. Even the flighty girl apparently destined for the prince develops into a surprisingly likable character. The writer displays her talent in her unique word styling and excellent pacing. Oh and the line about American girls and CokeCola is one for the record. Whose record? Who knows? Perhaps royal princes'; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Boss Me Forever (An Alpha Male Romance) (Boss Me, #3); Author: Eva Grayson; Genres: romance; Review: The woman knows how to write a love scene! I read the entire trilogy. While the three books were short, they are packed with engaging male POV musings. The kind of thoughts one loves their book boyfriends to have. The unfolding of the encounters between the two main characters is exciting even breathtaking! There was enough character development to explain the main characters' motivations and actions. Thanks for the bonus books by Ella London. She has some similar skills; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Where Lightning Strikes (Bleeding Stars, #3); Author: A.L. Jackson; Genres: romance; Review: Interesting story elements. The author pours a great deal of emotion into this interesting story, at times, maybe too much. The character development gets lost in repetitive phrases applied to situations. The excitement of the intimate scenes is diminished by the same repetitive emotional over sharing. All that this author needs is a top notch editor.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: My Surrender: Book One; Author: Ava Blake; Genres: romance; Review: I surrender to this entertaining sexy fantasy tale! A good start to a multiple small book sexy romance. The characters are likable. I especially enjoy the shenanigans of the male protagonist in one particular hot steamy scene. The writing style flows. The characters actions and emotions are understandable; still, there is enough mystery and interest to entice one to continue reading.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Only Pretend; Author: Nora Flite; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: This is the first book I have read from Nora Flite and based solely on this book, I can say without hesitation that she is a gifted storyteller. Yes this is a "dark" romance and some may find it disturbing. For me it is more like a "dark" modern day fairy tale. Fairy tales deal with hopes, conflicting emotions, aspirations and of course the endless search for the HEA. I searched inside myself to try and figure out why this story resonated so completely with me. This author is so talented with her words, style and pace, she had me hanging on every scene between the two main characters. After reading this story, I questioned the female psyche's need for choice, dominance, freedom, commitment to love, attraction to the beautiful but damaged male. It left a lasting impression. There is certain beauty when discovering truths even in the ugliest of forms. This is called art. This story is a work of art!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: My Secret Master; Author: Nora Flite; Genres: romance; Review: Brooding Dark Sexy Romance! Take a mysterious and handsome billionaire patron of art and a down hearted broke but spirited, young and beautiful artist; write a scorching tale of exciting, not vanilla, sexcapades with the skill and style of this talented writer and you have this highly entertaining dark sexy romance. Every page was engaging because of excellent pacing. A delicious escape; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Tabula Rasa; Author: Kitty Thomas; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: A Certain Genius in more than one "Blank Slate" This is a brilliant story told with exceptional style and pacing. While fascinated with the male protagonist, I was challenged by his sociopathic character. I see where the author could ascribe the meaning of the title from presenting the female protagonist with complete amnesia waking up in a apocalyptic scenario. Reading deeper, I also see that Shannon's emotional blank slate is beginning to be written on for the first time by another human being with his experience of Elodie. The story left me with many ponderings. How far does the redemptive power of love go? Sociopathy aside, do we all feel love the same way? Does sexual desire turn us all into somewhat of a sociopath? Like a great book always does, this book left me with thoughts of the story and its many interpretations. As a bonus, the writer is talented in writing erotic love? scenes as well.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Blyss Trilogy Boxed Set; Author: J.C. Cliff; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: Engrossing, Engaging, Enticing, Erotic Romance! This trilogy was the first works I have read from this writer and I am so happy I gave her books a try. She is a talented adult romance storyteller! She is particularly great with the pacing and description of the erotic love scene. The story line and arc was not run off the mill but peppered with suspense that I found makes this book a page-turner. Her male characters protagonist and antagonist alike are some of my hottest most favorite new fantasy book boyfriends; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: White Trash Beautiful (White Trash Trilogy, #1); Author: Teresa Mummert; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: Romance in the chaos of addiction I would consider this book more of a story about the physical, emotional, and spiritual ravages of drug addiction and enabling. I found myself profoundly sad reading through most of this book. I did not feel the romance. I did not feel any of love's passion. I did not have clear mind's picture of the main characters. I respect the writer's hard work and the story is good. It just does not have that certain spark needed in sizzling romance stories; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: One Night; Author: Ramona Gray; Genres: romance; Review: Hot, Sexy, Angsty, Nibble on your Earlobe, True Love! This is my second book from Ms. Gray that I have had the delightful pleasure to read. Ms. Gray has a wonderful skill set for writing in this genre. This description of the musings and interactions of the two main lovers is artfully and sinfully, panty combustible hot! The pacing is excellent and creates a rapt audience. It is a blissful escape which every reader of romance craves.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Quantum Boxed Set, Books 1-4; Author: Marie Force; Genres: romance; Review: Modern Day Romantic Fairytale with some Erotic Spice! I read all four of these books one after the other in the span of two days because the story was engrossing enough to keep me interested and happily entertained. The first two books while capturing a great deal of passionate angst did not have the sexy sizzle that the later two did. The last two met the expectations that an other than vanilla romance promises. I did like the writer's handling of the sexual proclivities of her main characters and the realization that individual sexual expression is just that "individual". That a couple can enjoy their sexual expressions within a respectful loving relationship seemed to be an overall theme. Of course the fact that the men in the novels are all smokin' hot bodied and hot blooded alpha doms with blessed endowments prodigious stamina and appetites doesn't hurt the readers enjoyment of these entertaining books. I am truly looking forward and I have already preordered the next book. Well done!! Keep them coming!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Escort; Author: Ramona Gray; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Fantasy First Time Don't we all wish the first time could be this sexy hot? The main female character treats herself to a professional but gets his sexy twin instead. Their love story begins with combustible chemistry. She learns that she has been extremely hard on herself and it is never too late to begin a new direction in life. This author excels in writing heart pounding, feels so good, love scenes.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Convict; Author: Roxie Noir; Genres: thriller, crime, paranormal, fiction, fantasy, romance, mystery; Review: Who can resist a bad,bad boy? Not to mention one that is uniquely hot with sideburns, one dimple and rockabilly vibe. What a gritty, different, sexy, (he's always hard), story of romance with the tough, smart, although sweet as an earth mother detective Luna Rivers. (Moon River ring a bell?) I guess our main guy, Stone, (a 'hem, "hard" as stone), was "crossing our Moon Rivers in style". It is a great story written so well that the reader finds themselves cheering on the ex con trying to take his life in a different direction. The mystery of his past and how he has come to be starting over is excitingly intertwined with his uncontrollable attraction and singular passion for the smitten but skeptical detective. The story takes on intensity when Stone's past is threatening his future. The sex is sizzling, touching and so believable. Ms. Noir's treatment of the two main characters first kiss scene took my breath away. These two characters linger in the imagination well after the book is read. This is an all around satisfying and enjoyable romantic read. I received a free copy for an honest review.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mr. Corporate (Mister, #3); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: Corporate Confusion? To say that the book is a standalone is not entirely accurate. Having read the first two, this book about Mr Corporate just confused me about what exactly is going on. There are so many tangential characters unique to each Mister. None of them offering a cohesive plot to the three books thusfar. Either I am really dense or I simply cannot get excited for all the plot machinations. I also could not appreciate the characters. Their back story suggests that they are intelligent. It is beyond my sense of credulity that they could not find the time, patience and desire to honestly communicate to each other to genuinely come together before 10 years has gone bye. They had such intense chemistry. Their actions were not fluid and natural. The sexiness of this book is lost to all the crazy plot twists and turns that seem so divergent. I did not like that the book left a secret of Mr. Corporate left to be revealed. You need to read the next one or the next one after that. Great idea for a book series. It s just not building interest or excitement for me.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Ravenous (Quantum, #5); Author: M.S. Force; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Lovely, Hot, Mate! Of all the books in this series, this is my favorite so far. The male protagonist is sex on a stick with a British accent. Oooh, American women are sometimes so cliche. So what if I am; so be it. It is great that the writer can have the reader hear him in their head and feel him, where????? Love the storyline of Jasper and Ellie. It has a distinct fairytale quality to it. I am hoping to hear there are more stories in the works about the ridiculously hot and sexy folks at Quantum. Great name for an organization by the way. Lovely sexy hot romantic escape! Well done!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rock Me Deep; Author: Nora Flite; Genres: graphic, comics, romance, fiction; Review: Lyrical as a Love Song Nora Flite's skill as a gifted, talented and artistic writer is on full display in this beautiful romance story set in and around the world of "Rock Stars". "My skin boiled with my starvation, tongue tasting like delirium." The quote above is just but one example of her descriptive lyricism that transports the reader to higher albeit more visceral appreciation of the emotion behind her characters. A rare talent. The book reads like a song...a sexy, heartbreaking, triumphant song.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sting; Author: Sandra Brown; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: I am a relative newcomer to Sandra Brown's novels. I have only been reading them for about 2 years. I began reading again with her novels. Her art healed a part of me. I will ever be grateful to her because she helped me rediscover the joy I have in reading and I have become a voracious reader ever since. This novel in no way disappoints the Sandra Brown fan. I love her ability to tell a detailed, beautifully descriptive, suspenseful story and weave the most basic of human instinct, sexual attraction and the character's need to bring that attraction to fruition. She surprised me later in the book with her many plot twists that I really did not see coming. The first plot twist is easily suspected in the beginning, but from there, watch out! The use of language is reality for the characters and situation and adds to the construction of the milieu in the mind of the reader. The slower pace in the beginning of the story only added to the excitement of the accelerated story line near the end. The denouement simply lovely and satisfying.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Gold (All that Glitters, #2); Author: K.A. Linde; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: True Love is the Gold! This second book in the series told the story of Bryna's redemption from her past torment from her disastrous love affair with a married man. The story is multidimensional. Different themes of a woman's sexuality and experiences with men are explored through the characters. K.A. Lines is gifted with the ability to describe kisses in transcendent prose that can make the reader's heart skip a beat. "Water poured down their faces, mingling with their kiss. She moaned against his mouth, and their tongues met in perfect unison. This was their third kiss, but for the first time, she truly savored him. He tasted like pure heaven. A touch of everything that was right in her life. He pushed her arms up around his neck and covered her body with his own. They molded together, both soaked through. A bolt of lightning tore through the sky in the distance, and thunder crashed overhead. They both jolted at the interruption." The quote above was a description of a kiss from the man Bryna ultimately discovered she was in love with and he in turn truly loved her unconditionally. It was an emotionally satisfying romance. I preferred the edge and pacing of the first book. I am looking forward to the next book.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Emeralds (All that Glitters #2.5); Author: K.A. Linde; Genres: romance; Review: Cruel Plot Twist; Emerald Green The Color of Jealousy First the reader is seduced with beautiful prose and masterful descriptions of desire and kisses. "Then, he kissed her. It didn't matter that they were seated on the side of a crowded street in New York City, making a spectacle of themselves. All that was there in that moment was the feel of his lips on hers, the way her heart stuttered to life, and the dizzy feeling clouding her mind." The reader is as seduced as Trihn is with her Preston. The sexiness and hotness is off the charts! Then watch out. Trihn triumph is in her ability to believe in herself and move on. Question remains in my mind is was the sexy hot guy and his prodigious desire and talent worth it? Love this series and will read on. I encourage anyone to do the same!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Bad Boy Arrangement; Author: Nora Flite; Genres: romance; Review: Just Fell in Love with Nora Flite's Bad Boys This is my first taste of Ms. Flite's Bad Boys stories and it was delicious. I was surprised that there were two stories in this eBook. Yay! Both were engaging, interesting and sexy hotttt! The boys are bad in the best of ways. The girls are happy, satisfied in love. I truly appreciate this writer's talent in this genre.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Pay For Play (Alphachat.com, #1); Author: Victoria Ashley; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "Veni. Vidi. Vici." You just have to love a man who has this tattoo on his lower abdomen. A super sexy nod to the ladies who studied Latin and just never knew there would be any practical use for the understanding of the phrases of antiquity; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Author Anonymous: A True Story; Author: E.K. Blair; Genres: non-fiction, romance, fiction; Review: Illicit Love is a Powerful Drug! Wow! Just wow! This writer just simply blew me away! I felt my heart soar and break and break again. The story was beautifully told. The "love" scenes searing in their intensity. The themes touched upon in the story are universal even if they are ultimately heartbreaking. This book touched me personally, deeply in my heart. I am grateful to the author and her "Author Anonymous" for sharing this haunting story of "love".; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Two Can Play (Alphachat.com, #2); Author: Victoria Ashley; Genres: romance; Review: "Blazing" Hot Romance! This book is much like the first; a romance and a "love" story wrapped up inside a very naughty tale of very blessed and handsome guys and their shenanigans. Reading this book is a light, fluffy, sexy, somewhat dirty distraction from reality.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bang (Black Lotus, #1); Author: E.K. Blair; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: Absolute Genius!!! This book just took the breath from my body. I put this book series on my must read now list after the treading her latest, Author Anonymous. E.K. Blair is a masterful writer. The character development of the female protagonist is sheer brilliance. Some of the character interactions are hard to read, but nothing in the scenes are gratuitous or meaningless. Below is just but one example of the writer's skill in character development with Elizabeth's thoughts during two very different points in her life: "I became dark inside. No. That's not true. I became colorless. You couldn't have painted a portrait of me because I no longer existed" "A hard hit to my heart and I feel like I'm choking. I really love him. I see it, a shooting star above, exploding into a million flittering pieces of diamond dust. Shimmering flecks trickling over me, and when I look down, I see them landing on Declan's golden chest. A splattering of crystals, each holding their own prism of sparkles as they glitter against his skin," At one point her life is colorless and then it is glittering like diamond dust. There is such beauty, intensity, ugliness, hopelessness and hope in this story. Brava!!! Brava!!! This is a story that needs to be experienced front to end. I have the next in the series lined up ready to read! Truly a rare talent is E.K. Blair.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Echo (Black Lotus #2); Author: E.K. Blair; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: The "Echo(es)" after the "Bang" This second book in the Black Lotus Series delves more into the aftermath and consequences of Elizabeth's misguided schemes, her wrongdoing and the motivating soul crushing pain visited upon her in life. The "echo" is heard in the beautiful, sometimes raw prose in many thematic devices. Elizabeth's ghosts are echoes. Her pain is an echo. She herself is an echo. "And he's right. I was strong. But that's when I had something to fight for. That fire in me is gone. Only ash and embers remain. Echoes and shadows. Darkness and death." "Each life you take brands you for eternity. I hoped it wouldn't. I hoped the aftereffects would wither away as the echoes did. But if there's one thing I've learned in this life, it's the realization that echoes live forever. This book was more thought provoking than the first. The pace of the book is not frenetic as the first. The love scenes are erotic and angry but make sense given all that has happened. It is a complex story and masterfully told. The ending begs for the reading for the blast in the series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hush (Black Lotus, #3); Author: E.K. Blair; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: This Book is Meant to be More than Simply Read Again the reader of this final installment of The Black Lotus Series cannot help but notice the highly skilled composition and descriptive prose of E.K Blair. While there was some suspense and consequences of undercurrents from illegal arms dealings, this book was more an examination of how two fatally flawed lovers found themselves, each other, and their way home. I find it difficult to describe how I am feeling after reading this series. I believe I have been reminded about personal truths I hold dear. I was entertained. Ultimately, I was moved by the "Wonderland" ending and the refusal to quash "child-like" hope in darkness and despair. This hope growing out of the muck and mire of a soiled life like the pristine pure lotus flower grows out of the mud. Even if your difficult, abusive, and sad life blackens your hope, a Black Lotus.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Can't Touch This (Can't Touch This, #1); Author: Tess Hunter; Genres: romance; Review: "Touching" Sexy Romance This story is a delightful classic romantic tale with a naughty flair. Woven within it are stories about abused animals in need of rescue and care, and the various ways we can all help. Ms Winters is a masterful love scene writer and this skill, always evident in her dark romances, is also evident in this more lighthearted romance. This is a wonderful feel good escape. It is a beautiful and fitting tribute to her beloved furry companion. Please know Ms Winters that my heart goes out to you for your loss; as I am sure most other readers feel the same. Will look forward to the next book always.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Billion Dollar Bad Boy; Author: Nora Flite; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, romance; Review: "Sail on Silver girl..." Silver - what a terrific name for an antihero/hero. I truly enjoyed how the story unfolded one mystery at a time. It was highly imaginative. Nora Flite is masterful with her pace, word styling, and description of the "love" encounters between characters. I daresay many a reader must blush and need to calm their racing heart while savoring the words of this author. I highly recommend anything written by her.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Platinum (All That Glitters Book 4); Author: K.A. Linde; Genres: young-adult, romance; Review: Platinum is the Favorite, Most Precious Metal, Book, Love This is the best book of the All That Glitters Series. There are wonderful storylines woven around the heroine, Trihnity and her desire to fulfill her dreams and restore her trust in the possibility that she may have found a genuine sincere love in Damon. The pacing of this story is marvelous. The angst emotion is written so well the reader can almost experience an anxiety attack. The love scenes are hot, erotic and beautiful. Love the settings of the pop music world and the runway fashion events. The title is most apt for a number of reasons. One reason is perhaps the precious strength Trihnity finds in herself. Looking forward to reading Silver.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: It Ends with Us; Author: Colleen Hoover; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: Heartbreaking and Healing!!! This is the first work of Ms. Hoover's that I have had the singular pleasure to read. Actually it is a profound experience along with being a pleasure. From a literary standpoint it has wonderful heft in its metaphors, symbolism and hidden allegory; even in the serendipity of the situations in which the characters find themselves. The utter surprised shock I felt at reading the first incident reminded me of how I felt the first time. The small details of clumps of hair resting on her mother's upper body and the hair pulling remind me of why I cut my hair when I left. The feeling of forgiving but not really forgiving; loving and hating at the same time and finally, finally leaving this time, this last time for good...the good of everyone concerned...was masterfully expressed. Moreover because this is fiction and a story that tells you (reminds you) of a certain type of heartbreak, there is a redemptive love that is restored and perhaps a HEA around the corner. Lily lands on the shore after being carried by the waves. God bless you Colleen Hoover for the truth and beauty of your work!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Well Hung (Big Rock Series, #3); Author: Lauren Blakely; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Hung Up? I just have to say this is a delightful story to breeze through. It delivers an escapist love story fantasy with some well described "love" encounters. I was left wanting to picture the characters in my mind's eye more; especially Wyatt's raison d'etre, his personal tool. I usually thoroughly enjoy Ms. Blakeley's books. This story did not coalesce with the humor, cliches, storyline, and character development/description into something titled Well Hung. 3.5 stars - respecting any author's effort, I round up.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Caught (The Protectors, #4.5); Author: Karen Fenech; Genres: romance; Review: Super, Sexy, Seal!!! This is a short read that packs so much between the pages. It begins with our heroine mysteriously abducted. The mystery unfolds as an undeniable sexual attraction blossoms between captor and captive. Oooh our girl is "caught" in more ways than one. This was the first story I have read from Ms. French and based on her talent with romance writing, I certainly will read more. I recommend this entertaining and enjoyable steamy story.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Snare (Delirious, #1); Author: Clarissa Wild; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: Trapped in the "Snare" "In between the darkness and the light, there is nothingness; there is me." This is the first line from the whole book series found in "Seek" the prologue. It is fairly close to my own feelings after reading this first installment of the series...oh and this is a good thing. "I rock every woman's fantasy. Too bad it's only a fantasy." This is our hero/antihero, Sebastian boasting to Lillith in one of their first encounters. He is written to "rock" every reader's fantasy... and then some ("too bad it's only fantasy"). That "some" can be shocking even cringe-worthy...the dark side. Here's the thing I am waiting to find out if there will be redemption for this guy and will there be light in true love??? I am trapped in this "Snare". This is all so well written...cinematically written, quite beautifully, even when dealing with dark, dark themes and subject matter. Read this if your up for the thrill and down for the dark and all the emotions in between. I am ready to dig into the next book in the series. By the way for all the crusaders out there, remember this is fiction not a treatise. If it makes you feel strongly, this is a good thing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Seize (Delirious book 2); Author: Clarissa Wild; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: "Desire...seizes control of our hearts" "It's the things we don't understand that excite us. The unobtainable that we seek. The hunt is what drives us, the need to ensnare our opposite and learn. Intrigued by differences, the desire to capture that which makes us unique is what seizes control of our hearts. We want each other's qualities and despise each other's weaknesses. We collide and attract. Yin and Yang." The quote above is from conversation between Lillith and Sebastian. He is trying to help them both make sense of the love that is blossoming between them while involved in some crazy dark situations. The book is filled with suspense as our hero/antihero sets in motion his plan to destroy the perverse enemies whose company he used to keep. The intimate scenes between Lillith and Sebastian tend to be dark but also revelatory and ...if you will...exciting. Reading this second book, I still notice just how wonderfully descriptive the writing is. The subject matter and themes are dark but it makes the redemptive power of love and light all the more pure and sweet. "It's always darkest before the dawn." Cannot wait to read book number three. Do yourself a favor; indulge in this series. So far, for me, it has been an emotional, psychological, philosophical and physical treat.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Scorch (Delirious book 3); Author: Clarissa Wild; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: Crazytown in Hell...Scorched to the Ground...In the Name of Vengeance The abuse, cruelty and horror Ashley suffers began in the first book of the series. Apparently the first perverse rape and torture she suffered at the hands of bored, uber wealthy members of a lawless, morally bankrupt down right sick and perverted club was not enough senseless punishment. She is held prisoner in some shady "institution". Her rebellious behavior earns her the distinction of being her personal caretaker's " pet". "In this prison, I seem like a girl who's lost everything. And I can't say that I don't agree. I have lost almost everything that I once deemed mine. My body, my freedom, my mind. But no matter the sacrifices, they will never own my heart or soul. Those two things remain untouched; I will use those two things to destroy everything." Her caretaker, Sam while trying to break her down sexually falls in love with her and despite her vow to herself to use him to stay alive and just maybe help her escape, and to kill him after lumping him in with the perverse men, she begins to feel something for him. For awhile we meet Ace and her killing/torture lessons with Mr.X. To the relief of the reader of the three book series, everyone meets with their just desserts in the most vivid of detail. This is Ashley's book of "scorching" vengeance and just maybe love that is born out of red hot desire. I truly enjoyed the writing once again. Interesting time jumping had me paying close attention to everything which made me feel completely involved in the story. Inventive storytelling. Brava!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Porn Star (Prn Star, #1); Author: Laurelin Paige; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Sparkling. Atomic. Holy. "No, this was something beyond anything I've ever felt, so powerful and elemental that I could feel it coursing through my body and into the rocky ground underneath me and into the speckled, glittering sky above me, and the world dissolved into pure, celestial magic. Sparkling. Atomic. Holy." This delightful, cleverly and well written book is more about the mystery of falling in love, nurturing that love by monogamy and sacrificing intrepidly for the one you love. Above is Logan's musings after an early "love" scene with Devi. Of course in this book, there are some of the most "hold your breath" sex scenes so sensually and well written that I ever had the pleasure to read. It was a window into the evolution of the world of prn and that of a prn star. Just as there were astronomical and ancient mythology references. None of the sex was gratuitous. It all served the storyline and/or character development. Even the word "Star" in the title of the book takes on a whole new meaning after you read it. "The thing is, when I fell in love with Devi, I realized what it is to look up at the stars, and once you've seen the stars, it's impossible to unsee them , to go back to staring at the ground." - another musing by Logan. Naturally it is an enjoyable read, but it is also a book that makes the reader think about their own intimate beliefs. I recommend this book. It is a delightful experience that entertains, educates and challenges. The additional book by Sierra Simone was holy-moly hotttt! Thanks for the treat.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Chandler (Fixed, #5); Author: Laurelin Paige; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Romance, True Love, with a little Spanking! This was a fun, romantic and sexy love story. It was not as angsty or heavy as the series from which it was originated. The love scenes were playful. The storyline was that of a classic romance. If you are looking to read a book that will entertain you with the story of a hot young playboy falling in love while discovering his dominant nature in sex play then Chandler is your guy.; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: The Girl on the Train; Author: Paula Hawkins; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, mystery; Review: I Found Myself Traveling with "The Girl on the Train" First off, I think there is somewhat of a "herd" mentality in the overall negative ratings by some reviewers of this book. With that off my mind...I see real value in the epiphanies each of the three female characters experienced within the unfolding of the story. Rachel literally rides the train and, to my interpretation, is also, figuratively riding the train of alcoholism leading to some serious self delusion. She blames the failure of her marriage entirely on herself and carries the burden of the resultant guilt. She never saw her husband clearly. While riding the train into London everyday she invests emotional attachment to a young couple she observes in a house she passes everyday...so much so... she bestows upon them her own made-up names. Events in her own life and in the lives she is observing conspire to literally and figuratively make her get off the train. These events are suspenseful and make for a great storyline. Both Anna and Megan each have different self discoveries. The male characters do not seem to evolve and if anything, each one you meet shares culpability in the main event of the book. Particularly odious to me (and he is written to actually smell bad) is Scott for his hyper aggressive selfish character; his bullying and his assault of Rachel. Just a personal observation and opinion. Careful reading of this book will yield many clever literary devices. The fact that there is not one smile described as genuine from joy at its root in the whole book. "Everything about him is warm--his hands, his eyes, his voice--everything but the smile. You can see the killer in him when he shows his teeth." Another is the symbolism behind the small pile of rocks in the corner of Megan and Scott's garden. It is not written as an intense suspense narrative with accelerated pacing and should not be compared with such. It is written more like a jigsaw puzzle with the pieces to the jigsaw locked inside the seemingly blackout mind of the "Girl on the Train". For a satisfying literary and emotional experience and challenge, I highly recommend this book.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hard Core; Author: Tess Oliver; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Hard Core with a Soft Heart This was an entertaing story of starting over by two people who really needed some breaks in life. Ledger- what a great name for the main guy - was given a harsh prison sentence for really what amounts to a prank. Jacy is recovering from an abusive relationship and deep-seated trauma in her psyche and heart. It was exactly these situations that led to their fortuitous meeting. Their romance by the healing seaside is challenging, tender, lovely and even hotly described. Although, I am still trying to figure out who or what is "Hard Core". Maybe it is Ledger because as he is described, he is rather hard bodied??? Really if you are in the mood for romance, this book will do very nicely, being "hard core" and all; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Torch: A Second Chance Romance; Author: Roxie Noir; Genres: romance; Review: This is a beautifully written, luscious story of lost love discovered during the frightening perils of a wildland fire and description of the challenging lifestyle wildland firefighters lead. Rather than give you an outline of the story, I will just entice you with what makes this book such a satisfying read. Ms. Noir has great talent with character dialogue especially during those scenes we all love to read. "I make a surprised mmph noise into his mouth. He makes an mmm noise back, almost like he's teasing me," Suffice it to say, you can really feel what the character is feeling through her dialogue and it feels good. Hunter and Clementine while overwhelmingly attracted to one another have some issues to work out. Ms. Noir creates tension and angst with these issues in their characterizations and interactions while building suspence around the fighting and containment of a dangerous out of control wildland fire. They "go through the fire" literally and figuratively in an emotional sense. There are also some beautifully written descriptions of the natural setting of this story even the peculiar nature of the fire; thereby adding richness to the readers imaginings while reading. "The light is always the color of sunset, even if it's seven o'clock in the morning, and it makes the primal, instinctual part of my brain whisper it's nearly dark, it's nearly dark all day." Now, honestly, just the idea of reading about "hot" firefighters should inspire and fulfill your appetite for romance. This book gives you all that and something for your heart, your mind, and your soul. I super recommend this book. I received a free review copy of this book. I would also like to personally thank Ms. Noir for her thoughtful mention of the members of the AZ Hotshot Crew that bravely lost their lives in the Kaibab fire.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Jock; Author: Aubrey Irons; Genres: romance; Review: The "Jock" who changes more than teams...Hoooootttt!!!!!! First off, this kindle edition I purchased actually contained four books in total. Each one as maturing as the other. In "Jock", the author wrote London as not your typical fawning female fan who wants to get next to the rich star bad boy quarterback who thinks nothing of losing himself in mindless and meaningless hookups for sex like a sport. Of course Holden Cade is that quarterback. Yet, there is an undeniable attraction sexual and more between London, the hard driving talent scout and the emotionally damaged Holden. The story delights the reader as we watch these two come together and pull away. Their interactions are sometimes funny sometimes precipitating a disassociating state from fire hot so hot sex scenes, sometimes tender and as they discovered their love, beautiful. As Holden grows in his characterization, he becomes less of a cliche and more of a team and community treasure. Is it enough to begin again with London, or has that ship sailed? Finding the answer to that question will bring each new reader a sense of satisfaction and meaning in this story. The three other stories have a similar literary arc ! All three have men who act like cliches or are severely stunted in their maturity. The women in the stories are strong. Even if they led with a mistake they fixed it. This kindle edition is a treasure trove of delightful storytelling. All of the "R" rated scenes are delightful and smoking hot! Gives one hope if their significant other is a complete opposite from you. For hours of fun, I recommend this package of stories.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sex Machine; Author: Marie Force; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: The "Sex Machine" is needing some love maintenance!!! Can Blake, our emotionally wounded, anatomically gifted protagonist break out of the chains of the memory of how his first love died and learn to love again. Will Honey of many names find that one man to have that elusive "O" with in Blake? Oh there is drama and melodrama and hot hot scorching hot sx scenes. Did I remember to say HOT?!? All in the quest for answers to these questions. The writing style was crisp and focused mainly on character interaction. If you're in the mood for something sexy, this book is a good choice.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Silver (All That Glitters Book 5); Author: K.A. Linde; Genres: romance; Review: "Look for the Silver Lining" At first I was somewhat perplexed as to why this book was titled "Silver". Then it dawned on me while perusing the reviews for this book; I came across one titled " Silver Lining". K. A. Lines writes for us in the character, Stacia a young woman who discovers the path she chose for herself is not the one she really wants. In that one honest self-reflection she discovers she really has nothing to show for herself. In the dark cloud that follows her self assessment, she searches and finds her silver lining in new directions for life. However each change, each dark cloud is painful. "But the idea of not cheering was suffocating. She felt like she couldn't breathe. No matter how dramatic that made her. A piece of her identity that she had been desperately trying to cling on to after all the changes in her life had just been chipped away. Now, she had to figure out who she was when she wasn't the cheer slut. And she had no idea who that person was." The voice that the author gives Stadia as evidenced by the quote above struck a chord in me reminding me of how I felt when suffering a similar loss. I would be seriously remiss if I did not mention the engaging and hot love scenes with Pace. Their love story was fraught with many dark clouds. The dark clouds of suspicion, jealousy, trust and the past. After growing as a person himself, Pace makes a grand gesture that reveals the real love he has inside of him. Reading this book is pure pleasure. The author captures nuances of experiences and her powers of description are phenomenal. I wholeheartedly recommend "Silver". For a richer experience read the whole " All That Glitters" series.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Yield: Emily & Damon (Fettered, #1); Author: Lilia Moon; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "He's a Magic Man, Momma" Contemplating this book after reading it and in particular who Damon is written as a character, I had this snippet of a song by Heart on repeat running through my head. This character, Damon, the Master Dom, might be my ideal fantasy man. "I don't know Damon at all-- and yet I do. I know he watches me like the world depends on it. I know he's sure of himself bordering on arrogant and that he's quick to admit when he's wrong. He laughs at himself easily and overflows with tenderness and loves to cuddle and knows exactly how to fit my body to his even when he's asleep. I know he's wild, fierce, passionate, demanding, and generous in ways I've just begun to see. I want to see more. I want a chance to get to know all of Damon Black and I want him to get to know more of me." The author speaks of him through Emily's late night musings. This book is like one long sexy erotic love scene. On display is the breathless beauty of the genuinely Dominant male and his controlled passion, the responsibility he feels to his partner to mention nothing of the devotion he feels to one who is beloved. Emily is like wholesome sunshine and a ripe strawberry. The meeting of these two worlds is exciting and interesting in the negotiations. Many macho manly men who think they are God's gift to woman would do well to read this book and understand how a true Master Dominant man holds power over his partner, his woman. It is joyfully freely lovingly excitedly given with adoring trust. This power exchange takes them both to places some only dare to dream about. Phew, got that off my chest. Really this book has some incredible "scene" writing, have a broad mind going in (it's only fiction), learn and you will enjoy. "The pieces of Emily Madigan shatter and I go with them, absolutely sure I can do this. Absolutely certain he will catch me. I am a million molecules of fire and starfall because he believes I can be." Beautiful writing, yes?; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Hottest Mess (S.I.N., #2); Author: J. Kenner; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: The "Dirtiest Secret" is swirling around in the "Hottest Mess" What a trip!!!-head trip that is; or, rather what a mess or wow so many messy situations!!! There as so many threads to this half spun tale. Dallas and Jane are feisty, oh so sexy, and beautifully damaged main characters. They are childhood friends, Shakespearean start crossed lovers, kidnap and torture survivors both reaching for some kind of normal. Their parents/step parents deemed that they be brother and sister. Their public image surrounds this familial portrait. Their love was trapped within the bounds of what is permitted and what is deemed taboo. Even if it was artifice that began this mythical taboo. They have broken free and it is one hot hell of a mess. Hot, hot, hot love scenes but I do believe the dirtiest secret is going to come from the hottest mess as we read on. The ending of this book gave me a panic attack. Smart and fast pacing tells the story you just could not stop reading with the first book. You just cannot stay away from the third. What a SIN!?!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dirtiest Secret (S.I.N., #1); Author: J. Kenner; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: What is the "Dirtiest Secret"? J. Kenner is an accomplished, talented writer who should not be underestimated. There is so much going on in this novel. It is rich in intrigue, mystery and oh what wonderful sexual tension and unusual sexual proclivities. The two main characters are forced by parents/adopted parents to be raised as brother and sister. They are further trapped by familial and inheritance obligations to maintain this relationship status through adulthood. Dallas the "King of Fu@k" billionaire with the GQ smile is harboring secrets; there origin being the brutal kidnap with his sister?/true love, Jane. The angst and the push/pull of their love affair is beautifully written. I was having anxiety attacks! Seriously! The "love" scenes were hot, hot, hot. Now one of the last secrets revealed to Jane rocked her world but the I do believe the "Dirtiest Secret" is hinted at the very end of the novel. Very cagey of our author. Bravo! Read this for an engaging exciting and a hot, hot, hot treat!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sweetest Taboo (S.I.N. #3); Author: J. Kenner; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: Transformative Love and Healing is the "Sweetness" in this "Sweetest Taboo" The writing was so well paced, descriptive and gripping at the climax of this story that I had to get my heart rate under control !!!OMG!!! Just sayin'. Ms. Jenner has created a highly engrossing, sexually flavorful and delicious commentary on the redemptive and healing properties of love. This commentary is carefully woven into the tapestry of characters (primarily Dallas and Jane) and their involvement in both private and tangential situations and happenings in both the dark and light. Dallas and Jane damaged by their kidnapping and torture weather all the vicissitudes that their current circumstance of being in love is wielding at them. Every chapter brings a fresh challenge of some form of personal or public harm done to them and their reputations and livelihood. Through it all Dallas is determined with his underground, not so legal, activities to find their torturers and exact justice. keeping them safe from any further physical threat. They evolve from "Dirtiest Secret" to "Sweetest Taboo". Their love is the light itself that shines healing light inside of them and reflects outward, yes even onto the reader. After all this whole book is about redeeming love and trusting that instinct inside yourself wherein you recognize the strength of love when you see it, feel it and know it. I consider the sexual relationship between Dallas and Jane presented to us as not only entertaining (hot as hell) but also the relationship evolves so beautifully as each of their person hoods is restored. What was once found in the dark as a way to survive, bond and give hope is gradually restored to them through love, patience and unselfishness. I invite anyone who loves a good story with diverse elements of mystery, intrigue, romance and an ultimate lesson in love to read this trilogy. Be awake and aware to the beauty of the language and the storytelling and this will be the ultimate treat to read ad enjoy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Sexy One (One Love #1); Author: Lauren Blakely; Genres: children, romance, fiction; Review: Why is He "The Sexy One"? The author, through her female protagonist, Abby, answers the question like this: "It's been massively appealing how good he is with his daughter. What can I say? I thought I was an everything girl, but it turns out one of the things I like most in a man is how good he is at taking care of his kid. That's my penchant. Some women go for arms, some like humor, and some love a bad boy. Me? I'm drawn to this amazing, gorgeous, handsome single father. I want to smother him in kisses and then jump his bones. 'You know it's ridiculously hot how much you love your kid?'" Lauren Blakeley gives the reader a delightful, light-hearted treat of a love story with this book. It is peppered with desire and spicy, adult and hot "love scenes". There is enough sweet personal angst to keep the romance reader caught up in the story and reading...a very satisfying treat for lovers of this genre. (I proudly count myself as one!) If you are, I highly recommend " The Sexy One".; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Her Dirty Professor; Author: Penny Wylder; Genres: romance; Review: I'm Dreaming About Professor Johnson's "Johnson" This quirky "hot for teacher" type story rates 5 sizzling stars for all of the captivating elements in this short novel. I loved the fact that the nerdy female and male protagonists were so sexual. The fact that the Chemistry Prof was so genetically blessed and this excited the sexual curiosity of the good girl/serious scholarship student was awesome! It was cute, funny, sooooo sexy and there was.....ohhhahhhhh true love. Sometimes you're just in the mood for something entertaining, lighthearted and deliciously sexy. This story is made to that order. One click this one!!! I certainly plan to read more of Ms. Wylder's books!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Torrid Affair; Author: Callie Anderson; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: What Remains after the Fire of this "Torrid Affair"? Ashes? Embers? I believe the reason you see so many lengthy reviews about this book is because this author has a rare gift of grabbing the reader by the heart and emotions and twisting them until the reader is screaming, panting and ready to pour out their emotions that were put through the ringer. One of the main themes of this book is the love between the male and female protagonist that was electric, undeniable...it was pure love...it was fire. Yet, this love was subjugated to immature, foolish and misguided notions such as unnecessary loyalty, jealousy, lack of trust, and miscommunication. Even after 10 years the fire burned until it became a purifying blaze. What's left after the fire of the truth and pure love? Ashes? Embers? When you read this, you embark upon an emotional journey that will captivate you, engage you and after all is said and done nourish your heart and soul. Ms. Anderson is one talented writer to have created a story that so mesmerizes the reader. She applies a deft touch to the beautiful and erotic love scenes. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for a wild emotional ride that will move you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hot for Teacher Anthology: 19 Stories Filled with Lust and Love; Author: Celia Aaron; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: A Collection of Mesmerizing Stories Centered Around an Ages-Old Phenomenon Yes the phenomenon of student/teacher erotic desire and growing affection is a near universal rite of passage into adulthood. Most of the feelings never reach expression but are carried in our hearts as a sweet memory. For those lucky few who venture forth into the taboo and taste forbidden fruit, these are the memories of when their lifetime love affair began, or when a treasured romance makes its mark in your lifetime for you to always cherish. This collection is a group of really well written stories where each story is a unique variation on this taboo yet universally experienced. It is so relate able and tempting to invest yourself in any one of the 19. If you are an aficionado of the erotic romance genre, then this "Anthology" will entertain, delight and give an opportunity to meet some new authors, their writing styles, and the truth that they can express through their story lines and characters. The collection also offers the reader perhaps a chance to reminisce and learn from their own actions if they ever were in the student/teacher feelings zone. The writing was truly fine. I am beginning to appreciate the well-written short story so much more. I found myself at times veering away from this book and into a writer's other works because I liked something new in said writers style. All 19 are excellent and offer you an enlightening and entertaining read. A few outstanding mentions for me was Sloane Howell. I never read an erotic work written by a male with a male perspective. The last story by A. Zavarelli was a lyrical piece with art, ballet, performance art damaged sensitive artistic souls that connect and revel in their pleasure exchange relationship taking form. It was a beautiful short work. I could seriously go on and on about how each story but some color and richness to my life. I congratulate these 19 authors on producing this "Anthology' and look forward to reading all the new books that I have prioritized to read. I encourage anyone to purchase this book. It is a lot of bang for the buck and a lot of banging for the buck. (Sorry, simply could not help myself) Enjoy it when you have some nice downtime.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Panty Whisperer (The Panty Whisperer, #1); Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Okay Ladies, Hold onto Your Panties... Hold onto your panties because here he comes and he is on a self-appointed mission he states as such: "They need someone to open their mind, and release their fantasies into the wild. Someone to spread their thighs and take them to places they never knew possible, where all of their darkest fantasies reside." There is a real art to the short story and this author applies a deft hand to this "erotic" short story. This initial encounter with the "Panty Whisperer" was brief but fulfilling. He took us from the why to first blush through seduction to mental foreplay, physical foreplay and ultimately a beautifully hottttttt detailed description of the endgame of the "Panty Whisperer". I especially enjoy the rawer description of a male point of view; especially a male who prides himself on creating a lasting fantasy memory for the subject of his ardor. I recommend this literary nibble of erotica. It's a taste of something good. BTW, the '67 Mustang made it that much hotter!!!!; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Get Me Off; Author: Penny Wylder; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "O" what a feeling! Want a far superior way to spend an evening then watching a movie? I do believe watching the word pictures this talented writer paints for you in your imagination with her naughtily titled novella, "Get Me Off" would be far superior entertainment! Ladies, this is one smokin' hottttttt read!!! Ms. Wylder unleashes her powers in descriptive writing with her depiction of Heath's physical attributes (he's yummy) to include his "intimidating mound". Despite the brevity of this novella, the reader also sees a shift in his mindset from formidable "manwhore" to dedicated monogamous lover. It is in the depiction of our female protagonist that we have a sassy, very funny, not all-together aware of her singular physical beauty, woman who made a misstep on social media. By the way, there is some sly commentary on the merits and misuse of said social media in the narrative. One of the best reasons to read this book is Ms Wylder's gift for writing the panty melting...body exploding...mind blown..."love scene"!!!!!!! These passages break the mold and go far beyond the cliche description of hot or hawt. So for a fantasy escape that will entertain, amuse, excite and warm the heart, I highly recommend this as best of the short and sexy novella genre. Did I mention this one is hottttttt!!!!! Oh, and it is all about the "O" from the "O-Maker" given to "No-O;) "O" what a feeling!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Tommy Boy: A Panty Whisperer Prequel (Panty Whisperer, #0.5); Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: "The heart has its reasons that reason knows nothing of." - Pascal "I'm in love, there's no doubt in my mind. There never has been. I'm a realist, always believing it was just feelings and chemicals releasing when people said they fell in love instantly. I'm a believer now. There's nothing scientific about it. I can't prove it, I just [fking] know it. She's everything to me." - Tommy This is an erotic, funny, quirky love story about finding that first true forever kind of love. Our "Tommy Boy" is adorable as he is introduced to us. He is cute, funny, a huge Star Wars and sci fi geek and apparently a little bit unsure about initiating the first move...even the first kiss. But when he receives equal avidity from CC, then he becomes quite the "humming" virtuoso along his apparent innate skills in satisfying a woman. "The force is strong with this one"!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rivals; Author: Aubrey Irons; Genres: romance; Review: "Keep your Friends Close; and your 'Rivals' Closer" "Love will only break you. Love will leave you cut open and empty, even when you do find it." To set the stage for this "Rivals" romance, the author speaks through Landon, her male protagonist, the above sentiment. As the reader, we can appreciate the why of his love pessimism. Just as we understand the why of his "rival", Serena's same emotional guarding. From the beginning through the progression of the story, Ms. Irons cleverly creates, utilizing back story, clever dialogue and character internal dialogue, an erotic sexual attraction between Landon and Serena that is like a drum beat in the background. Even at the apex of their "rivalry" the drumbeat, the heartbeat of sexual desire, is there. The sexual encounters written by Ms. Irons are intense, primal and smokin' hot. As the characters develop their relationship, these sexual encounters become healing and transform this erotic story into a beautiful satisfying love story. The journey of the "rivals" set in the world of professional football is sexy, erotic, entertaing, heart warming and definitely worth a read!!! I was honored be an ARC gladly providing an impartial review for no consideration. I also purchased a copy for my Kindle library. Go forth and read!!! You'll really enjoy this one!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Panty Whisperer: The Complete Series; Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: young-adult, romance; Review: "He is one beautiful fker, isn't he?"- Quinn "A Jedi must have the deepest commitment, the most serious mind... Never his mind on where he was. Hmm? What he was doing. Hmph. Adventure. Heh. Excitement. Heh. A Jedi craves not these things. You are reckless."- Yoda And so describes the attitude of our ridiculously hot, Jedi, or more appropriately padawan, the " Panty Whisperer" as he is written to lead the reader on some of the most erotic, hotttt, filthy good, mind altering sexcapades ever written from that wonderfully entertaining faux mysterious male point of view. Girl, I am talking dirty good. Joel the PW is not only blessed with a prodigious instrument of love but a beautiful "beast" of a muscle machine a '67 Mustang Fastback. I have personally thrilled to the thunder and roar of this very model and year of Mustang. "I want you to remember my face. I want you to remember every inch of me...I want to own your mind for the rest of your life."- Joel, the "Panty Whisperer" And so...the first half of this literary work reads like a dirty book for dirty dirty girls. BTW, this whole book is rather hilarious and who doesn't appreciate a good laugh with their sexy time? Naturally what makes this work a 5***star read is that our "Panty Whisperer becomes a padawan to "Obi-Tom Kenobi" when he finds he simply cannot whisper his way into her panties nor can he forget "the one". His whole attitude changes as he evolves into a true lover. "My love for you is a puzzle...for which I have no answers." -- Padme There are some beautifully tender moments that balance the eroticism and hilarity...lovely dramatic scenes that keep us asking nay begging for more. Come, don't be shy, read this and beg right along with me...for more.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Caught Together; Author: Penny Wylder; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Beautiful, yes beautiful, hottttt, sexy love story!! How often, in our real lives, do our fantasies become our reality? I would venture a guess that it is a rare event. Hence, the true appeal behind this salacious saucy read. Stella, a woman of a certain age somewhat stifled by expectations cannot control her thoughts of sexual attraction to her son's friend. Now her son, no matter his age, will always be her little boy. His friend, Trevor, as he is so deliciously described, is all man. Not only that, but also he is a man on a mission to prove to Stella that the sexual attraction is mutual. Stella's fantasies of Trevor become reality as he sets about proving to her that he is all man blessed where it counts with skills. Oh...make that stamina and skills. If you enjoy a well written erotic novel with the slightest suggestion of the taboo...amazingly hottttt sex and tender moments then this is one for your collection.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Secret; Author: Aubrey Irons; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "I want to be his naughty girl; his dirty little secret."- Madison This is a delightful "sexual romp" of a read; with so many rather well written hottttt, inventive "love" scenes. The story line is rather creative and makes for many clandestine encounters that range from sweet to passionate and some are downright funny. Hunter is dashingly described from his tattooed musculature and devastating...uhmm smile. Madison is trying with all her might to honor her mother, the POTUS. The relationship between Madison and Hunter would be considered a political liability since they are soon to be step siblings. This situation builds romantic angst and tension further complicated when Hunter is assigned to Madison as her Secret Service protector. Oh, did I mention their crazy first meeting took place in a sex club. In the end this is one tasty satisfying read. One I am proud to own for the joy of it. If you like dirty naughty girls and guys and dirty secrets this is one for you. Oh...and love makes all things shiny and new in the light of day.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dollars (Dollar, #2); Author: Pepper Winters; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: Engrossing, Enrapturing, Enthralling, Entrancing "I was breathless. I was witless. I was utterly spent and ripped apart. The song was an eternity. The song was a second." - Elder Prest The breath litrally left my body after I finished this book. I was stunned by the ending. It is not a cliffhanger in anyway. It does create a craving for the continuation of the story. I felt the prose so lyrical and musical that my imagination rocked like I was aboard the "Phantom" along with Elder and Pimlico. This book in the "Dollars" saga is a tour de force for Pepper Winters. No one does "meaningful" dark erotic romance better. Easy solutions to soothe battered souls, heal damaged psyches and mend broken hearts are not to be found between Elder and Pimlico as they engage each other in a push and pull of want, wishes and sexual desires. Both are damaged. Elder, the the thief, who constantly offers Pimlico choices when he is beginning to realize his choices when it comes to her are ever narrower. Pimlico, a slave brutalized beyond the pale, is healing physically but intense psycho-sexual wounds still haunt her as she tries to deal with her growing attraction to Elder. Ms. Winters' power of description is so captivating: "In the Moroccan sunshine, his skin turned a molten honey while his hair carried nightmares itself." - Pimlico The part of the "Dollars" story that was told in this book is a gloriously satisfying read but there are complexities at work in this story that make it hard, so hard to wait for more. And lest I forget, the story has that wonderful touch of sexual heat. A lot of healing of the damaged characters goes into the blazing hot sexual encounters. I have chills!!! I suggest you get in on this feeling! These writings are truly praise worthy and worth their weight in dollars.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Separation Games (The Games Duet, #2); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: The North Star CD Reis's has written a profound masterful work revealing some of psycho-sexual drama, release and pleasure we all feel as humans in a safe, sane, consensual and I will add loving sexual encounter...whether that encounter is vanilla or otherwise. She has her audience that just "get it" and enjoy her mastery. I would like to write this review for those that may struggle with the BDSM and the "gamesmanship" of Diana, the "Huntress" and Adam the Masterful Dom with whom she seems to fall in and out of love. It was not too far in the past ,and I dare say the attitude persists to this day, that woman were viewed by men as being pure without sex drives - Madonnas - or they were whores with wanton desires. In the first book, "Marriage Games" Adam professed to his inability to love a submissive. Once he breaks them, he loses his desire for them. He has sullied them, made them his whore. His love for his "Huntress" (He calls her this for many reasons, one may be that in Roman mythology Diana is the goddess of the hunt.)...I digress...his love for her is profound and permeates him through and through regardless if he is practicing his Dom persona or not. In fact he suppressed his Dominant side, even sensing that Diana was a natural submissive, for many years in their marriage because he did not wish to sully the love of his life. Diana fell out of love with as she refers to him, "Manhattan Adam". She sensed he was never all there for her. He was hollow or not present to love her. She surprised him with a letter asking for a divorce. "You have no idea how goddamn desperate I was." - Adam He explains this feeling to Diana when she asked why he took her to Montauk to be his submissive after she asked for a divorce. It was there in Montauk that Dianna fell in love with her God-like Dom of a husband. Adam for his part professed to persist in his belief that he could not love a submissive. She was no longer "his Madonna" she was on her way to being that whore. I repeat this author is a master of tension and expression of human emotion. Beautiful symbolism abounds as does the most explicit and searing eroticism exploring profound themes of human soul deep love. I pray dear reader to view the power exchanges in D/s relationships as an individual's unique psychological means of communicating with their body and person hood ...and not simply dismiss it as incomprehensible perversion. This power exchange, pleasure exchange, erotic communication provides pleasurable emotional and physical release, profound healing and for that happy couple in love, a strengthening of a bond. Understanding, even being affected as the characters are affected, does not necessarily mean you are on your way to wearing leather restraints and elaborate collars. Although I must say my fashion sense since reading these stimulating novels has changed a bit.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Marriage Games (The Games Duet #1); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "Bedroom games . That's all it is. But they're serious..."- Adam "But they're serious, and when played right, everyone wins."- Adam Speaking through her protagonist, Adam, CD Reiss is perhaps trying to take the pain from the reader's heart that is galvanized by the pain from reading about these characters by referring to what shredded the reader as just " bedroom games". There is so much to learn from the "bedroom games" that both bring Adam and "the huntress" together and wrench them apart. Adam is a beautiful man and a Dominant by nature accomplished in his seductions who separates this from the tender lover in his soul. He eventually is seen as a sexual god by his love. "The huntress" is a beautiful women who knows her worth and power in the boardroom and creatively but she does not know or even wish to acknowledge that she is a "sexual submissive". Before they marry and while they are in the blush of the beginning of their love story, Adam feels he could never love a submissive so he hid his proclivities. Before he meets "his huntress" he is tragically topped from the bottom by a virgin submissive who requested him for her deflowering. Shame from that encounter and wanting to keep his future wife in the vanilla world he is of the belief that he has put his days as a Dominant behind. Yet, some years later, his wife whom he loves can't feel his passion, his presence...she feels as if he is just phoning it in. (This situation is often felt between two people who are completely vanilla.) She wants to divorce. Adam's attempt to reveal himself, acknowledge his wife natural sexual submissive nature and realize he will love her even if she is his submissive is a near success squashed by jealousy? This author's writings are thoughtful, beautiful, sexual and emotional...a whole different perspective of the kinkier lifestyle. There are no omitted or self-edited details. This book will enrich your life and enlarge your understanding of sexuality its place, its meanings, its purposes, its pitfalls and damnations. Read it for this precious knowledge.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Banged Up; Author: Jeanne St. James; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: An Explosive Love Story "Your battle scars are much worse," she said. He hesitated for a few long heartbeats, a little sadness softening his eyes. "I got mine from someone who hated me enough to want me dead. Yours came from someone who was supposed to love you." - Mace Ms. St. James through the words quoted above of our hero, Mace to our heroine, Colby describes the way these characters are initially "Banged Up". Throughout the novel they face even more injury both physically and emotionally. Finding out if they can find love and healing is the pleasure of reading this book. It was rather well written with clever and even humorous dialogue. Mace is written as one delectable specimen of male...a little "boneheaded" at times but that just makes for a lively storyline. Colby is a beautiful firey redhead...she even has freckles! She is intelligent, a scientist. She is recovering from an abusive relationship. The first time these two kiss is written so extraordinarily well, you can almost feel every breath...every touch...every tingle. This scene is spectacular and it alone is reason enough to own a copy of this book. The sex scenes are exciting and very hottttt!! Especially enjoyable was when Colby took charge of her Alpha guy! The story had angst, intrigue, action and you must read for yourself the most unexpected turn the story takes in the end. For an exciting and satisfying treat for yourself give this delicious treat a bite!!! (This has to be one of the most underated books I have come across on Amazon. Perhaps being published in 2009 has something to do with this. A book ahead of its time?); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bossed; Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "I wanted to do unspeakable things to her for the way she challenged me." - Ethan Just when we could not stand another day go by without a new book from Sloane Howell, this exciting, a tad dirty in a great way and rather well written book is released. It is a heart warming story as well. The "Boss", Ethan, in this story is a super hot hard-bodied, business excellence driven, smart mouth who meets a woman, Jenny, who has much of the excellence required for her position and knows baseball inside and out, since our boss, Ethan owns a sports agency for pro baseball players. The trouble is Jenny matches her Boss's smart mouth with her own rapier wit and Ethan finds this and other attributes of Jenny more attractive than his personal business code permits. Page-turning tension is created when one situation after another creates misfires in these two trying to capitalize on their attraction to one another. Oh my dear readers...when it finally happens, it is sexual Shangri La written through several pages. Finally, Ethan puts his smart mouth to use in filthy dirty talk and other treasured oral skills a woman so desires. Certain life situations challenge the connection between Ethan and Jenny. Their response is based more in reality and this creates emotions in the reader that pull hard at the heart strings. The reality based responses and actions by the characters make the fantasy elements all the more believable. I always enjoy the writings of Sloane Howell. While this book has the imprint of a heavier edit, the "special sauce" of a "man" writing romance and erotica for primarily a female audience is still quite evident. This difference makes it a must have, must read and the best one-click value going for serious romance readers who like it a tad dirty.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Scored; Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Cheeseburgers It is rare for a romantic read that makes me giggle and have all the other delicious "feels" at the same time but that's the beauty and charm of a romance written by the incomparable Sloane Howell. I particularly enjoy the slightly goofy, super witty, oh so sexy Dominant Alpha male protagonist that he writes in his romances. It is in his skill at writing this endearing character that you can feel the authenticity of emotions portrayed by this character and notice that there may be a bit of the author's own person used in the crafting further adding to the believability. "Scored" was simply the telling of a "love" story. It was scorchingly hot and there was great skill in its unfolding. The plot line may not have been scintillating but it takes a certain genius at knowing which buttons to push with the ardent romance reader that keeps their interest and has them entertained throughout. Matt Stallworth is that beautiful creature known to womanhood as a professional baseball player. Now just think about this male beauty for a minute or maybe longer gY~S. He is tall well over 6' and then those powerful forearms...and hands and chiseled abs oh and the equipment!!! Along with his physical beauty is his love of music and goofy personality. He is also quick witted with flirty banter and not afraid "to go there" with his quips. All of this blessed male feels an inner tug toward Kelsey Martin. She is a singular beauty with honey colored eyes and a body that pleases his eye. She is a rocker chick with a distinct style all her own. She knows her mind and guards her heart. She has wit and a terrific sense of humor. Most of all, athletes are just not her type. She has always fallen for the lead singer of some up and coming band with her heart in tatters after he has taken his leave. Their story begins with all the angst, uncertainty and insecurity that a first real date involves. As a reader we are caught up in the tale from this point forward. In the back of our minds we know that this is our favorite type of book, the typical romance. We can guess at the ending yet, we are still taken in by both characters and their drama. Oh and the sex..the hot chemistry, the holding back, the exquisite tension of will they? When will they? How will they? Ohhh and how will it feel for her? For him? How does it feel for a man? What really is his inner dialogue? Swoon worthy answers to be had... Get ready to be surprised at how this author handles these questions and in the answering you are swept away to another place as we always hope our romantic reads will do for us. They remind us when we ourselves were once at this place and even have us hold on to the hope that we will go there again. And for the uninitiated, will this place be where; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Alpha Bad Boy Series Box Set: Books 1 - 4; Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: romance; Review: Even "Good" Girls Love Those Bad, Bad Boys This is quite the collection of formidable "Alpha-male Bad Boys". Sloane Howell writes these four different men so authentically, one might think he has lived as each of these characters. Even so, you see at least some of his interests woven into the stories and the male protagonists in them. Having read some of his work, I noticed a definite difference in the male perspective in the erotic romance genre. I truly enjoy this difference. More than this, I detect no hidden derision of the preferences and pleasure readers of this genre espouse and enjoy. He doesn't pander to us and phone it in with overly formulaic " tripe". This is why readers are responsive to his style. You just have to give a guy his due as he is a gifted writer willing to entertain us the way we like. He gives us the "full welly" when he writes erotica. I so appreciate the "full welly" even though no one is quite sure what a "welly" is. It just sounds so good and you can imagine what you wish.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bad Boy Revelation (Alpha Bad Boy, #1); Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: romance; Review: Meet the "devil...[with] ice blue eyes like rays from heaven"- Esther This short read explodes over the pages. It is the story of the white-hot (not pure white) desire of the preacher's daughter, Esther for the troubled? but sexy beautiful man Bryce with burning lust,he tries to control to no avail, around Esther. While asking for indulgence from the Lord, Esther sets about offering herself to Bryce. She is nearly consumed by this insta-lust/insta-love. Time, propriety and shame are all forgotten as their ultimate climatic scene takes place in the house of the Lord her father built. In fact, their whole lust filled story takes place in church. It may strike some or perhaps most as taboo. Yet, who is to say that supposed sexual sin is greater than the sin of pride, or greed or gluttony or even the sin of turning your back on someone in need that you can clearly offer comfort and help. All of that sin at one point or another carried to and on in the house of God. This short story is written so well and the words so full of sexual need and desire, the pages nearly melt my kindle and burn my fingers. Don't pass up your chance to ask forgiveness from your God for reading this scorching story and other sins of course.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bad Boy Prospect (Alpha Bad Boy, #2); Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: romance; Review: Oh...He's a Bad, Bad, Very Bad Boy Who is Really Good at ...Pitching a Baseball and a'hem...Running the Bases Sloane Howell writes this bad, dirty boy as any hot blooded women's dream (mostly wet). Gavin is a big gorgeous man with a formidable instrument of love, a creative lover's mind and an insatiable appetite for the delectable charms of the female body. He has somewhat of an anger issue on the playing field as the closing pitcher for most games. His future is in the Majors and he is cultivating a fearsome reputation deliberately. At his coaches behest, he visits a Doctor specializing in counseling athletes and the unexpected games begin. It is a short novel with some of the hottest, hot, hot sex ever written. You will be breathing hard and your kindle will do that sway in and out thing with your breathing. It does it to me anyway. No matter how you get this, in the complete set like I did or purchased individually. This is one for the collection erotica. Your collection will be richer and more complete because of it...not to mention...your heart rate and metabolism will benefit from the reading of it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bad Boy Con Man (Alpha Bad Boy, #4); Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: romance; Review: But there is something about this woman. I don't know what it is." -Grayson "My palms are sweating and my knees threaten to buckle from under me. Her hair, eyes, body -- I want to know more about her. Every warning sign in my brain is flashing red. Feelings will get me into trouble and this is not a good sign." And...these are the first impressions our "Bad Boy Con Man" has of his mark, Amelia. He needs to seduce her and use her to complete his freelance conjob. What follows is more interesting than this particular trope would suggest. Adding to the interest is the descriptive, superbly paced writing, including the steamy...hottttt ...spank me...pleasure me, erotic writing in Mr. Howell's unique gifted style. I have read all four of the "Bad Boy" novellas and this one is no different in quality of hotness. Additionally, it takes a different direction that is most enjoyable. I encourage you to indulge in a reading of this book for the sheer enjoyment. Oh...Did I mention, it is hot!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Matriarch: An Erotic Superhero Romance (The Matriarch Trilogy, #1); Author: Sloane Howell; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: Completely and Utterly Engrossed, Transfixed and Fascinated!!! That was me after I read "The Matriarch". I enjoy and study any literary work that raises itself to a level of art. This story certainly has done this. Lately I been appreciating the singular art of the erotic romance novel even the dark romance novel. I believe Sloane Howell has created something unique unheard of heretofore, "An Erotic Superhero Romance". I just recently become acquainted with the author ka Sloane Howell through his other writings which fit (for the most part) under the umbrella of erotic romance. They all are well written, fuuny and very hot, I am talking seriously hot. This story begins much like a dark romance set in a graphic comic book-like dystopian nightmare world. The nobility and the folly of the "Matriarch's" family ultimately rob her and other children of their childhood innocence and the evil villain, who is so evil he is beyond redemption, scars her psyche forever. The ways she endures under this evil caricature of a man shows that the young woman is at least holding onto some comfort found in sexual encounters of her choosing. She is holding onto something good. The middle section of the book, the reader is introduced to her respite, healing and an education in individual warfare, and she is smart enough to pick up an education from books, from this mentor/platonic friend/protector/teacher. This section is written to read almost like a fairytale with bucolic peacefulness and a cottage in the woods. It is here she learns her killing skills and perhaps learns her purpose. The writing overall is searingly descriptive and will leave your heart pounding. The author captures the zeitgeist of a girl whose innocence and self-worth was trashed who is now seeking justice and finding it necessary to "save the innocents"; and one who is trying to love with a pure heart her first real romantic love. The author writes her as a "superhero"...a female superhero with the sexuality of both a wanton woman and tenderhearted girl...and that writer is a male. Bravo! The last section of the book we meet the Matriarch by night and the billionaire businesswoman by day. She also meets the love of her life. As the Matriarch she is the hunter of evil criminals that prey on the innocent and helpless. She is an automatic and merciless killing machine in her quest for justice. The first two sections of the book set the stage for the ultimate battle with her nemesis...and just when you think you have this figured out...well... you have to read it and you will full on scream like hell at the end. The question will linger: What am I screaming for? I promise you will be completely and utterly engrossed, transfixed and fascinated!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Selling Out to the Billionaire; Author: Penny Wylder; Genres: romance; Review: "...because I always know what I want the second I see it."- Derek Conway This sexy uber hottttt story begins with our heroine, Penelope's first exciting day as a realtor. She lucks into a job and her first sales assignment is stepping in for someone else at the last minute to show mansion sized properties to a famous billionaire badboy bachelor with the reputation of a manwhore. She desperately needs to sell him a house so that her financial situation will be more stable. This is serious professional work in her mind. Derek Conway the aforementioned billionaire bad boy makes an appearance as the answer to the question "who" was going to actually be her first client. Upon this back story frame, a sexual attraction manifests itself and progresses as Pen dutifully researches and arranges showings for over 17 or 18 stunning properties. No matter how well the property suits him, he just says no. While Penelope is maintaining a razor thin veneer of professionalism; Derek is coming to terms with not only the sexual attraction cracking in the air like electricity; but also, he begins to realize he wants Penelope for more than sexual trysts. Pen shows Derek and he says no to an absolute perfect property, Pen loses it and tells him how his decision will hurt her. She does not blame him. She wonders why he had to be her first client. You need to read how this situation is resolved. Penny Wylder writes erotica particularly well. The sexual encounters in this are painstakingly and meticulously described. I gave you a barebones description of the story. I left the meat and the tasty parts for you to discover and savor. Her words flow. She builds a touch of angst into the arc of the plot. For me, it is the little things a soft breath here...tender words...dirty words at just the right times...a little scrape of the teeth...the heat...the passion...the bonding. These details are carefully crafted by the master word smith Ms Wylder. It is also a lovely homage to the working women trying to make it on her own. I promise you will find this to be an enjoyable, sexy read particularly when you carefully read all of the "love encounters". I think you will agree that her attention to detail and ability to capture every nuance makes it unique and exciting! I received this as a ARC reader. My review comes from my heart, my mind, and the honest impressions of this book. I received no remuneration or consideration for reading and reviewing this. Do not want any actually. The joy comes from reading the book and contemplating its beauty, truth, and lessons to be learned. I will actually purchase this book for my library.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: We Wish You a Naughty Christmas; Author: Skye Warren; Genres: romance; Review: Tasty Romantic Treats in this "Naughty" Anthology I have grown to love these multi author anthologies and this is one of the best! Sexy and/or erotic romance stories are tasty treats like chocolates. Now these stories are not your average grocery store children's candy. These are the "Lady Godiva" quality stories...silky, flavorful, you know it when you taste it! While I enjoyed all the romantic treats, a few stand out for me. "Mafia Cinderella" by Skye Warren The first few paragraphs set the "dark" mood of this sexy dark romantic take on the classic "Cinderella" story. All the elements of the fairy tale are in the story along with a twist on Aesop's fable, "The Lion and the Mouse". The Prince in this modern tale is devastatingly sexy. The ending will leave you wanting...panting for more. "Mistletoe Kisses" by Krista Lakes A sweet second chance love story mostly PG with Santa, mistletoe and Christmas wishes fulfilled. It will warm your heart. "Cake for Christmas" by Penny Wylder A hot hot hot reunion over cake. The attraction between the two main characters is sizzling off the charts hot. Sweet essential communication occurs throughout a memorable erotic scene. My, Oh my! Cake never tasted so good! "Collard for Christmas" by Willow Winters A short visit into the bdsm world done artfully and pointedly. Joshua and Alena meet again after a 10- year separation to find their love's embers are still glowing. Alena is mor awake to her inner desires for bdsm play. Joshua is more cautious and careful with her feelings. The ending will have the reader believing that fairy tales come true. Sooo hot and sexy with a splash of redeeming true love's sweetness. "A NASS FAMILY CHRISTMAS" BY ASHLEIGH ZAVARELLI 5 years of unrequited love healed by Christmas gift of a renewed relationship and a surprise. This story was masterfully written the love and passion had me shaking. "TAKEN BY SANTA" BY BELLA LOVEWINS A new take on "I saw mommy kissing Santa Claus?" Except well it is more like having Santa Claus the amateur male stripper ravish the virgin; who is not a virgin any longer. "CHRISTMAS CAMGIRL" BY ISABELLA STARLING A surprise Christmas gift for and from the camgirl the protagonist met online...or did he? There is some combustible chemistry at work in this story. "POSSESSED" BY JAY S WILDER This is a new author for me. Yet, another reason I love anthologies. This story had "off the chain" hot chemistry and passion between the main characters. A reunion of sorts takes place between these former college sweethearts. They discover their love and needs have not changed, but will he ever appreciate Christmas? These are but a few highlights for me. All of the stories are written very well and a recurring theme in most is the return of love from someone special. Really and truly, there is no better gift. The very first Christmas was the return of love from God himself. Sorry but I wax philosophical. This is bargain entertainment and I recommend it wholeheartedly. I was a; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bought (Highest Bidder, #1); Author: Lauren Landish; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "Club X...Sin around every corner, and a fantasy come to life."-Lucian This secret, exclusive club known to be the BDSM playground of super rich and successful Dom's and women interested in playing submissive to the Dom's, is where the lonely Dom, Lucian is the higher bidder for the beautiful novice submissive, Dahlia. Lucian healing from ex-wife/former submissive issues bids an exorbitant amount of money on and eventually wins the contract for Dahlia's submission for one month in duration. Dahlia clearly has financial needs met by this arrangement but more than this, something about this pleasure exchange helps her sexually. Lucian, being the perceptive person that he is, discovers that because of past history, parts of Dahlia are broken. He feels the need to help her heal. There is angst built into this relationship with love at the root of any problem these two have and naturally it is love that will solve these problems as well. The authors do a marvelous job with this darker, heavier romance story. The "love" scenes are enticing, lip-lickingly hot even if the reader could not picture themselves in any of the D/s situations in real life. That of course, is the purview of the imagination. There are so many possibilities in the world of books and one's imagination engaged in a world created by an author or in this instance, Ms. Landish and Ms. Winters. I so enjoyed my first visit. With the skills of both these authors in writing sizzling, red-hot, albeit kinkier romance (a-hem...for our imaginations of course), I look forward to more visits to "Club X...Sin around every corner, and a fantasy come to life."; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Light After Dark; Author: Marie Force; Genres: history, children, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: "Lights will lead you home" - Coldplay I had this line from the Cold play song, "Fix You" playing in my mind. This was a lovely well written story and actually it s my first visit to "Gansett Island". I know, where have I been. Well...I was introduced to Marie Force through the other romance genre she writes in and this genre is on the darker side of the romance spectrum. I so enjoyed the passion she imbued into her complex characters...and I certainly was not disappointed with the characters who are in the spotlight in this lovely book about finding love, romance and a new place to call home. As a fresh reader I did not feel left out and I will enjoy catching up with previous stories. The family members were believable characters and provided a rounded out world where our two main characters met, romanced and fell in love. I am so torn at this point on whether to reveal by which guy our heroine, Mallory is completely captivated. Actually, it is fairly apparent who he is early on. It takes the reader by surprise that this man has borne the scars of our nation's battles. He eventually trusts Mallory to reveal his wounds. His willingness to reveal himself to her encouraged by her profession as a registered nurse. The "Summer of Mallory becomes filled with some of the most tender and exciting love making. The author handles the brokenness of this man superbly. She transforms him for the reader into a blisteringly hot beautiful whole sexy male. Brava!!! Mallory's heart is also healed from past grief from the light of her chosen man's love. Sooo...after the darkness of not knowing her father to knowing him and tons of family and after loss, questioning, loneliness, grief and not sure where to call home. Mallory and her American hero are led home by all the lights of love on Gansett Island.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Badd Motherfcker (Badd Brothers, #1); Author: Jasinda Wilder; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "B-B-B-Bad, [Badd] to the Bone"- George Thorogood "He's a bad boy, you know? Like, true-blue, down to the bone bad boy."- Brock speaking about Sebastian The story begins on the day our beautiful gal, Dru Connolly is in her wedding dress ready to marry her boyfriend of four years, Michael. Events conspire to reveal that he is actually cheating on her on the day he is about to marry her. Dru is barely able to process this betrayal and turns to her dad's cop buddies to drink away the pain at a small bar near a small airfield. She suddenly gets the idea she must leave with the next plane out if Seattle no matter the destination. The destination is Ketchikan, Alaska. Lost, disheveled half drunk, half hungover still in her wedding dress she stumbles into Badd's. Around this point in the story we meet the eldest Badd brother, Sebastian (" Bast"). He is as Badd as his name suggests, Badd with a double " d". He is also a beautiful specimen of manhood to include the "anaconda" in his pants. Add to his looks a smoldering sexuality and a willingness to readily describe his desires and the author has her readers transfixed with the passion between "Bast" and Dru. It is in this book we are introduced to the eight flavors of Badd as there are eight brothers. Each brother with their own strengths and weaknesses. The main subject of this book, "Bast" evolves as a person and a man through his love for and returned by Dru. The presentation of their relationship is heady with sexual chemistry....hot! hot! hot! sexual encounters and new longings and desires heretofore never experienced by either of them. Themes of grief, depression and the burdens that fall onto the shoulders of the eldest child are also touched upon as our characters evolve. The epilogue will fully enlighten the reader as to the ultimate result of the fate-like meeting of Dru and Sebastian and set the stage for the story to another "B-B-B-Bad [Badd]to the Bone" brother. I can't wait for the next chapter. If you read this you won't be able to wait yourself. I promise!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Black Sheep (Rawkfist MC #1); Author: Bijou Hunter; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: What's up with all the queefing? I was torn about leaving a rating or review for this book. It was nothing like a MC book I have read before. It is almost a MC - light book. It read more like a young adult romance. While there was emotion, it just did not have the passionate angst and dark brooding feel of a naughty MC romance. The fact that Justice offered her virginity to Court and we did not read a reaction about this from Court was a missed opportunity for the author to create that soul-felt passion. Court had an odd hiccup in his personality...he thought he was a sociopath when it came to murder? The sisters' repartee was enjoyable and that made the book fun to read. The author shared some interesting insights in her characters. If you enjoy lighter snark-filled romance this is your read.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Guilty: A Bad Boy Billionaire Romance; Author: Nikki Chase; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: The Heavyweight of Guilt, Grief, and Longing "I've always kept secrets. I've always done things in the dark. And guilt is a weakness, so I couldn't show that side of me to you." - Cole This is an absolutely enjoyable romance story with elements of surprise, mystery and suspense that add interest to the plot line. I am therefore grateful and honored to have received an ARC and eager to post this review. Ms. Chase builds interest and intrigue from the very start of the Prologue. We have an idea from the ad copy preceding the book, that this story is going to include a self-involved, man-whoring, monied CEO. Our heroine begins this story as a grief-laden soul trying to reestablish herself in a life of her own making. Both characters move trough this story, move through and beyond the heavyweight of guilt, grief and longing to what end? This story is so well-written in that each mystery of connection, guilt, grief and forbidden longing unfurls itself carefully while building suspense for the eventual outcome. Once you begin reading, the author has you hooked until the end. The language of the story is excellent and flowing. The erotic scenes are tasteful and exciting. In this regard, the author truly has the reader longing for and anticipating when Cole and Emily are finally going to make their initial physical connection...share their first caress...share their first soul-satsfying kiss. Every encounter from there is especially enjoyable to read. I suppose it is our "Guilty" pleasure as readers. I cannot recommend this story more to claim it as such.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sinner; Author: Aubrey Irons; Genres: romance; Review: "This is wrong. This is sin. And you know what? Send me to hell, cause I just want more." - Rowan Oooooh readers this novel is leading me straight to hell with the "Sinner". The first thing I must say is this is a pleasurable delightfully extremely hot read about the " black sheep" wayward, hard drinking and hard loving beautifully muscled and tatooted badboy preacher's son, Rowan. This delicious man is a dive bar owner and bartender for his bar. The "angel" that comes into his life is daughter to another preacher of hard line zeal and ideas about how children of preachers should conduct themselves. He also dictates who Evangeline should blindly accept as her intended in obedience to her father. Except Evangeline (Eva), the "angel", come to Shelter Harbor, is not exactly all that obedient or is she? She begins by asking Rowan to teach her about sex and lovemaking for her future bethroed. You know the words to the song, "The only one who could ever reach [teach] me, was the son of a preacherman." Teach and reach her he did. Of course being the truly good person that she is, Eva doesn't fall instantly for the rakish charm of Rowan. Watching them fall for each other and love grow between them; as the characters blossom into different versions of themselves is exciting, touching and beautiful. The erotsism is " off the charts" hottttt!!! The author writes some intense drama toward the end of the story that has the reader turning pages at a clip. The descriptive language of the author is accomplished and beautiful. This is an exciting well-written dramatic sexy romance. In the words of Evangelinre, "He's sweet, sweet, sinful temptation. And I'm falling." You as a reader will be falling happily with this sweet temptation of a read. Sin never felt so good. "Sweet, agonizingly beautiful damnation." - Eva I was happy to accept an ARC for this story. I loved the story so much I bought a finished copy for my personal library. This review is entirely based on the absolute enjoyment I experienced reading the book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sold (Highest Bidder, #2); Author: Lauren Landish; Genres: romance; Review: "You've been invited to Club X." - Madam Lynn And so readers here we are again at the elegant posh Club X where monied high-powered Dominant Men in elegant suits seek out suitable beautiful submissives. Every sin in the book is on the menu. Most discerning is that man who is a Master and demands 24/7 control of a "slave" promising a life of pampering and pleasure. This man...this Master is Isaac. There are deeply buried psychological reasons that made him this way. He is described as a beautiful man, powerful and sexually masterful with his body...to bring immeasurable pleasure to the woman he has identified as the perfect slave for him, Katia. While Isaac has a darkness to his nature, Katia has endured extreme torture as a kidnapped sex slave to abusive masters. She is damaged but she is healing. Part of her healing is realizing she wants a Master. Despite the psychological comfort that Katia feels she would have submitting as a slave to a Master, there is still her lingering fear of indiscriminate abuse based on her past. She feels safe with her new Master Isaac at Club X but her submission is not completely what her Master Isaac had in mind. The character exploration and the development of the relationship between these two makes for highly enjoyable and informative reading. The eroticism is breathtaking. The movement the written words create allow for the reader to become fully engaged in the story of these two lovers. And yes...with full-on kinkiness, this is ultimately a story about how two lovers communicate with their minds, their intentions, their sex-play and loving embraces. The joy of reading this story is all about how and if this relationship can survive and thrive with all the necessary commitments, labors and fruits of love. I invite any romance reader to read, learn and enjoy this unique and special story, it is a deliciously sexy and satisfying read. I will definitely look for more from both these authors whether collaborating together or writing on their own. I am certain you will feel the same.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Thief; Author: Aubrey Irons; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: What's a Little Larceny Between Lovers? I completely enjoyed the rewrite of this beautiful sexy story of a boy from the wrong side of Shelter Island and his tragic but rescued childhood who grew into a noble man forced into an exiled life of crime in Ireland. He was married three days prior to his banishment from the unique and beautiful Ivy his childhood friend who became his "one" true love. It is a bittersweet beginning when Silas, now a super sexy hot man and...Ivy, an internet and business sensation who has also become a beautiful woman herself, both meet by accident on the docks of Shelter Island after years of not seeing or communicating with each other. They are still secretly married after eight long years but lingering resentments on both sides get in the way of significant communication so that they can either move on without the lingering heartbreak or come together to start a life. A few complications get in their way as well. No one but her one sister knows that Ivy was married those eight years ago. Ivy has a new shiny boyfriend. Silas still has his uncle who exerts his criminal influence over Silas. Despite his promise to himself to lead a good and honorable life, there are still thieving impulses in his soul. "It's like a horrible little junky's itch -- the addiction of the steal creeping up inside like some sort of waking dragon." - Silas Despite the obstacles in the way of their reunion, there is still an undeniable reawakening of how much they loved/love? each other. Silas may be the bad boy thief but they both wear a symbol of how they stole the key to each other's heart on their body. This author is masterful with dialogue and description. I could see the island in my mind's eye and almost smell the ocean breeze. The author builds body combustible heat in her erotic scenes. Makes me happy to have the ocean breeze she conjures with her descriptive language to cool off!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Prodigal; Author: Pippa Prince; Genres: romance; Review: Will the "Prodigal's" Repentance Be Enough? This is a lovely sexy story whose trope is rooted in a familiar ages-old parable. Zack has returned home to his mother and sister after years of "riotous" living to restart, renew, reinvent and best of all....for the romance reader... rekindle a never-forgotten lost love.(Pardon my alliteration; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Trick; Author: Laramie Briscoe; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "I'm free. For the first time in a long time. I'm free." We both are, and no one can take that away."- Hadley What an absolutely enjoyable and engrossing book!!! This is my first book from this author and I was delighted to read this lovely story, that's somewhat gritty with a meaingful sexually erotic flavor. The main characters are very well developed and written so well you cannot help yourself from rooting for their happiness, their peace of mind ther redemption...most of all their freedom from the chains of past mistakes and abusive treatment by others. Trick, the male protagonist is every woman's bad boy fantasy...beautiful face, beautiful body close-croped blonde hair, tatoos and ooooo...intense green eyes...reeking of sex appeal! Hadley is a beautiful woman who has her priorities straight, her beautiful little girl. Their chemistry is literally electric...explosive. Trick has been a rebellious ex-convict trying to start over as a changed man. Hadley and her little girl are survivors of emotional abuse from Hadley's ex-spouse. Hadley and her little girl are both trying to shake-off the damage from the abuse. This story is about the healing possibilities of love. As you read further along, in a way, it is also about someone who is rich and powerful but emotionally and morally bankrupt challenging a man who is noble at heart but overcoming the pitfalls of the circumstances in which he found himself..best of all giving of himself and what is asked of his genuine love...time and attention. This was a gorgeous read. It is well written...beautiful...excitingly erotic...and inspiring in it message. It is a book that will make you feel as free as the characters feel when they find their freedom. This should be one of your one-click purchases for inspiration, enjoyment...and well...let's just face it...this is one hot sexy read. I received an ARC for this lovely book. It was my honor to voluntarily review this wonderful book. My thoughts are my own. Coming from my heart and mind. "ubi caritas"; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dirty Liar; Author: K.B. Winters; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: "For one thing, all of the lies I'd told her were too big. No one could get past those kinds of lies." - Flynn Oooooooo...there is so much that is great about this book. First there is one beautiful, super-sexy, alpha male, bad boy, Irishman..complete with accent, who is a "Dirty Liar". But...he is not alone in his lies; as the object of his desire, Ava is telling a few lies of her own to get close to Flynn, who in an effort to project a different image from a manwhore rake to gentleman, calls himself Ian. Their chemistry is "off the chain hot". This clever author really builds the sexual tension between her characters that has the reader eagerly anticipating their first erotic encounter. It does not disappoint. Along with the hotness of the read, Ms. Winters sets up an impossible situation between them so that the reader cannot even begin to guess how this dilemma is going to be resolved. Add the threat of danger and violence built into the storyline and what we have here is one engrossing page-turner. The pacing accelerates toward the climax at the end with late-plot twists that had my heart racing. This is the first story I read from this author but it will not be the last. I volunteered to read an ARC. Per my usual MO, I loved it so much I purchased a copy. This review is honestly and freely given. I truly recommend this one for an exciting and sexy read. After which you will be insanely anxious for the next book in the series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lip Service; Author: Penny Wylder; Genres: romance; Review: Most Instructional!!! I swear my kindle was melting in my hands this read was so incredibly, wonderfully, beautifully hot and yummy!!! Every lady can use a refresher course in giving the one you love "Lip Service"... And did we ever get one in the framework of a challenging love story. Mayra thought she was utterly lacking in bedroom skills goes to classes to try to improve and she meets the teacher, "I've ever encountered someone who embodied the essence of man, the testosterone is practically rolling off him in waves. His face has a wildness about it, like it's spent more time in nature than the rest of us and wasn't able to be tamed. He looks fierce and rugged and something deep down inside me shivers." - Mayra Such masterful descriptive writing skill and emotionally engrossing prose written by Ms. Wylder! "Mayra. The thought of her clears up the darkness lurking in my head. It's like seeing a sliver of blue sky on a cloudy day. Just a glimpse of hope-- a reminder that things aren't necessarily as bleak as you think they are." - Philip The characters in this love story have their complexities and some issues that keep this shorter storyline engaging. For a hot, hot, hot enjoyable and...ahem...instructional interlude in your day, this is your one-click to happiness, romance lovers. I was so grateful to have the opportunity to read an ARC, however, the final copy just had to be a purchase for my kindle library. My reading and reviewing was completely voluntarily. One did not influence the other. My thoughts are my own and they come from my head, heart and in this case maybe even other places; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Stroke: A Bad Boy Romance; Author: Gabby Grace; Genres: romance; Review: "Stroke - a sudden action or process having a strong impact or effect" - TheFreeDictionary.com First impressions after reading this fast paced, laced with erotic sex, bone-chilling violence and "mafia/mob" culture read were wow, wow, and wow. Then I tried to figure out why the author titled the book, "Stroke". I actually looked up definitions and then I realized how clever the title is for this book. Our hero and heroine's lives are determined by " strokes" of luck in their meeting, interactions and situations...some incredibly dangerous. The actions of their families, especially Vito's family who cut him off in one stroke. The fast- paced storyline is filled with "sudden action" having major consequences. It is exciting! The author's mob family characters are presented with typical "mob cliche's" yet, trust me, and don't ask me how I know, these folks speak and act as these cliche's are written. Vito is one beautiful bad boy. Bella his girlfriend says this upon meeting him: "Deep down inside I can sense something dangerous about him, but I can't quite put my finger on what it is. It's just a vibe I get, a vibe that's never led me astray before...I like the way he repeats my name, rolling off his tongue with just a hint of an Italian accent. He looks the part with his dark hair, steely blue eyes, and olive skin. Vito has muscles layered on top of muscles. His hard, chiseled biceps are simply stretching the fabric of the short sleeves of his red t-shirt to its limit. Everything I can see about him - and another part that I can't - is hard - Bella Of course Vito has his own observations upon first eyeing the beautiful Bella: "There it is: Concourse D, American Airlines. And sh@t. There she is. Drop-dead gorgeous, she's looking straight at me, her left hand settled seductively on her hip, her long, dark hair flowing down wildly over her smooth shoulders. Her pouty lips are pursed together, her eyes slightly squinted in a sexy way. Her complexion is flawless, and she's not heavilmy.made-up, just the way I like them. She's Latina, I think. Her intense, dark eyes follow me as I walk, and the bold bewitching hint of attitude cloaking her face makes my....hard." - Vito So there you have it intense chemistry in one stroke in the circumstance of being on the same plane. Their story is filled with erotism, questions, secrets that need to see the light of day and dangerous situations. Vito and Bella are thrust in the dark. Will they ever will walk in light again alone or together? What "stroke" of fate, inspiration, luck or powerful feelings will bring them into the light? This author develops her characters very nicely and believably. The intricacies of the more violent "war" scenes were well-described. The author engages all of the senses when describing particularly "odious" bad actors. (Pun intended.) The quality of the setting sunlit sky when Vito and Bella deplane in Miami, was breathtaking and reminds me of a similar trip I; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: A Smart Choice (Arranged Marriage, #3); Author: Rocklyn Ryder; Genres: romance; Review: "Choice" Grade-A All Man! OK, OK, OK this read is simply a delightfully hot guilty pleasure. A made to order male for any hot-blooded woman. He is handsome with a square jaw, beautifully muscled, tattooed and a single nipple-piercing...Gawd...pick me up off the floor...and a love muscle to make a good woman faint. He even smells good...all male. The story is all about how a beautiful, curvy, sexy, intelligent and did I mention, feisty woman made this bad boy with a bad bad attitude go all Primal. Territorial. Feral. Be still my heart with their erotic, passionate, love encounters. This author gives it her all or rather writes their love scenes with some smokin' heat. She is an author to keep an eye on especially when she ventures into writing a longer more complicated novel. For now this is one click to afternoon delight...or evening...or mid-morning. You get the idea, clever ladies. Received an ARC, but I just had to buy the final copy. Trust me this one was read and reviewed eagerly and voluntarily!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Bombshell (Hollywood A-List, #1); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Pie, yes Pie, as in How much Southern Boys Love Pie, Centrifugal Force Pie and California Pie. Recently, I have discovered myself to be a major fangirl of C.D. Reiss. From all I have read, this offering is decidedly different from most of her other writings. At its core it is a lovely and lighthearted romance with enough heat to singe the eyebrows off a Southern Boy eating...pie, yes that's it, pie. However, there is a certain someone that just steals the show and your heart. That someone, little Nicole, was the "Bombshell" that changed everything for the famous actor, indiscriminately partying playboy Brad Sinclair. Of course when Cara DuMont, professional nanny extraordinaire gets one glimpse of the "star" quality and arresting beauty of Brad as she is called to assist little Nicole in a predicament, she falls for both Daddy and daughter before she has time to register her objection to being a nanny in the strange world of Hollywood celebrity. Cara is written as an emotionally intelligent, nurturing and loving nanny to whom Nicole gravitates. Nicole tries with her innocent little girl wiles to bring Miss Cara and her newly found Daddy together. The story has some interesting plot turns and twists, also, some lovely surprises. Even in this light hearted fare, Ms. Reiss exhibits beautiful artistry in her composition. If you look a little bit into the word choice, some wisps of themes can be caught. One example is even our beautiful Brad had to put in some extraordinary work to grab his "slice of the pie." You see reading a work by C.D. Reiss is a special experience because of the depth of the well of her knowledge and creativity and her deft hand with language. This story delights and satisfies the romance addicted. You are one click away to feeding your addiction with quality, nourishing and good for you, oooooouuu dare I say it, romantic "pie".; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Backburn (Combustible #4); Author: Brandy L. Rivers; Genres: romance; Review: "Backburn" -"...creating a new fire that burns in the opposite direction to the line of advancing fire" - Dictionary.com I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this book. It was extremely well written with an exciting crime mystery in the background of a "backburn" love story. A hot fire of love was started between Metcalf and Marissa to stop the fire of failed relationships and dark depression and overwhelming despair. The dynamic between them was deep loving and silky hot sexually. The story was enhanced with beautiful, loving and hottttt erotic love scenes. Nothing like a little "sexual healing". The supporting characters were well thought out and created a whole believable story by this realistic community. This is my first book from Ms. Rivers and I truly believe she has what it takes to be a great writer! This book is worth every penny in satisfaction. You will not be disappointed. I was given an ARC and was so thrilled after reading this book, voluntarily of course, that I bought the finished copy for my kindle library. Hey, that's just me. Every passage in this book is worth it in entertainment value!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Duress: A Billionaire Encounter; Author: Ridge Taylor; Genres: romance; Review: "Duress" Such a "Dirty" Situation!!! Yes, ahem..."Mr."? Ridge presents us with a labyrinthine situation in this enjoyable deliciously dirty story of complicated business transactions, dirty deeds done, and a beautiful hot erotic love story circling the whole dirty mess! The writer presents us with a fine specimen of an Alpha male in Derek who finds his "faux" older stepmother irresistible. It's a nice touch this young "hunk" finds older women so beautiful. The alluring Becca finds herself caught in an arranged loveless marriage with eyes for her forbidden beautiful "stepson". The story is well-written as it winds its way through the telling of business dealings that aim to do damage and vengeance. The erotic love scenes are combustibly hot hot hot. I love the dirty talk and actually love every little and "big"; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Interview (Law Firm Erotica #1); Author: Silk Jones; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: A Very Special "Interview"! This is one naughty BDSM teaser of a novella that focuses on a singular meeting. It is well written and packs a real "punch" or rather I should say "spanking". It is classic sexy hot erotic Dominant/submissive litera ture that captures your interest with dual POV's. It is written with style and panache. Loved the use of the word, "quim" .; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Corrupted (Deathstalkers MC #1); Author: Alexis Noelle; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: Who's is actually guilty of corrupting the innocent? While being a raw, gritty, violent and erotic story, this story presents themes of hypocrisy and no one group is either all good or all evil. It also reflects on the fate of women in closed societies. You will notice interesting ironies that Lucy's innocence is respected and protected until she of age by the notorious MC. And when she come of age, she is not forced to do anything she does not wish to do. Unlike the "supposed religious pious" life in which she was raised, where she was molested as a child, and being forced to marry her sick and perverted uncle who had many wives...He also managed to beat a couple to death. This situation packs a "whallup" of irony. Within this framework of brutality, a beautiful love story between Jordan assigned by the MC to watch over Lucy and Lucy, herself, although rescued at 14, she is not to be touched intimately until she is of age at 18. There is heady sexual tension between the two. Ms. Noelle writes beautiful, scorching erotic love scenes between the two. Just when you think everything is settled, the unthinkable happens. Ooooooh this is an exciting and often times a heartbreaking read. I received an ARC for this read but I just had to buy this one. It is an unusual trope written masterfully. I consider myself fortunate to have read this story. I more than encourage the lover of darker romance, MC romance, or even contemporary romance to just go ahead and one-click this one. The themes, lessons, love making and emotion of this story will leave you a changed person.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Mother Trucker: A Bad Boys of the Road Story; Author: Chelsea Camaron; Genres: romance; Review: Come Take a Fast Ride with the Mother Trucker!!! What an entertaining and delightful short read!!! This author delivers on her promise of "insta-attraction, insta-lust, insta-love, and insta-ever after." She gives the reader a loving, hurting, and beautiful male protagonist, Greer. You're easily drawn into his woeful situation. His beauty is in his maturity and goodness as a person, but I would be most neglectful to you if I did not mention his sculpted physique...and ooooh he has a beard! You know where they feel so good. He moves so sexily as well. Oh and he is great Dad to his little girl, his 14-year old daughter. Of course there has to be an equally beautiful and enticing woman meant to be his true love. She is delightfully named, Magnolia. Everyone calls her Lia. Wonderfully, she is as beautiful as a magnolia, even smells like one too. She also has a heart of gold. The prose of this short read was well-written. Ms. Camaron is rather witty and has a real poetic whimsy with her words. This brief work has surpriingly well developed and understood characters. She creates a whole community in which the story transpires. The major erotic scene was long...who likes it short?...it was nicely described...and by nicely I mean it was detailed, explicit, hottttt, and erotic. Lovely tension is built over a surprise revelation in the middle of the book, one at which I could not begun to have guessed. While I would rate this at a 4.6. I round up because who am I to stand in the way of an obviously gifted writer. If you love a good well -written romance with a touch of erotic and your requisite HEA, this is your one click away to "escapesville". Happily I was a recipient of an ARC and even more happily I volunteered to read this book. It is a must-have for my kindle library, so I purchased a final copy.I look forward to adding more of this sassy writer's works as I am sure you will as well!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Billionaire's Redemption; Author: Ridge Taylor; Genres: romance; Review: Ridge's Billionaire Buddies Have Such Large Assets Mr.. ahem Taylor introduces us to this story of his favorite uncle Blake as told by uncle Blake. It is actually a dual POV read which makes it more enjoyable for the reader. Blake is a beautiful man who is smart, personable, deliciously sexy, genetically gifted and boasts an asset of 10". Be still my beating heart and other parts of my anatomy; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bossy Valentine; Author: Mia Madison; Genres: romance; Review: He will "Boss" you into Bliss This story reads like plush velvet feels...soft, sensual, sexy, unusual and safe. Circumstances conspire to find Mabel (Ma Belle) depressed and disheartened over the lousy vacation week she spent with her two-timng boyfriend. Her gorgeous, sexy, handsome Boss who is sexy and loving is also a man with unusual proclivities and preferences in his expression and appreciation of sexual love. While not spelled out specifically, apparently he is a Dominant. He carries a beautiful name, Darcy from the ever-popular author, Jane Austin. I just love an historical touch. Apparently, Darcy learned of Ma Belle's humiliation on her vacation and has had enough of secretly wanting her and wanting to care for her. Their courtship is unusual given the free flow of money and the delights of submission, Darcy is eager to show his Ma Belle. The erotic love making is beautifully written and lives up to its billing as steamy. I just wish that there was more that Ma Belle did for him. Darcy's story is still locked inside the book. The author writes a very good short story. Her use of language is interesting. Having her characters using words, phrases and quips from by-gone days give them personality and uniqueness. Criticising a phrase used by character for its lack of modernity isn't valid. It's silly. This is a super sexy read, it drips passion. In the end you're confident that the love Darcy and Ma Belle share is whole, surprising and that forever kind of love. If you enjoy a lot of sex explicitly but beautifully described and some tension resolved over time, this quick read will fire you up and settle you down with its requisite HEA. I received an ARC for this story and joyfully volunteered to read it and post my thoughts. They are all my own. I loved this book, so as usual, I purchase a final copy. This book is an excellent book to read if you would like to learn to appreciate a little Domination/submission play. One-click to the world of the Dominant and then on to the dungeon.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: BARRED: A Bad Boy Billionaire Romance; Author: Linnea May; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, romance; Review: The "Barre" Provides Stability and Balance and "Freedom"? This was a gorgeous lyrical read!!! It was beautifully written with exquisite but scorchingly erotic love scenes. The characters were nicely developed with just the right amount of issues to create romantic angst and tension. Sara is the spritely petite dynamo of a disciplined ballet dancer. She has a secret concerning her sexual desires and activities. She also longs to be a principle dancer instead of one of the corps. Lux (translates to light in Latin) has rebellion issues. He is wealthy by means of his intellectual prowess with computer security and hacking. Prior to he legal endeavors, he was bailed out jail by his brother for illegal cracking and hacking. This gave him instant bad boy credentials with Sara which Mmade him sexually irresistible...of course that and other attributes such as his Dominance, his beauty as a male, his genetic gifts and just maybe the St. Andrew's cross in the bedroom/playroom; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Stay; Author: Melinda Minx; Genres: romance; Review: "I've got a hundred million reasons to walk away But baby, I just need one good one to stay" - "Million Reasons" I was just beginning to organize my thoughts for this heartwarming story, when I stopped to watch Lady GaGa perform for the halftime show during this year's Superbowl. I heard her perform the song from which I quoted the above lyrics...they just solidified the beauty and impact this moving, emotional, and sexy story had on me. Ms. Minx captured in this story within this genre of the HEA contemporary romance, some of the torturous emotions our Heroes, our American Warriors suffer and deal with upon their return home. She wheedles in the storyline themes of care for aging parents...career issues...and a father's concern that his super intelligent and highly educated daughter continue to take her earned and rightful place in her field of endeavor. It's a whole lot of story...And I would sell this author short if I did not share with you the beautiful, "hold your breath", erotic scenes complete with all those yummy sexy words that make your spine (and other parts tingle); Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Wicked Tease: A Bad Boy Next Door Novella; Author: Aubrey Irons; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Who's Teasing Who? "Wickedly" What an entertaining short romantic story about how lovers who are meant to be together actively and passively let life and the uncompromising circumstances in which they allow themselves to be. The bond between Addison and Cole was formed tightly during their childhood. This bond was always in place no matter the divergent paths each took away one from the other. It was on the strength of an errant passionate kiss that reignited flames again. This became a "wicked tease" as each expected never to ever truly cross paths again. Yet, they did. The book centers all of its action on the events of one night. Ms. Irons deploys cleaver back story in and around every occurrence at this college "function" ,read party, on the night to which I refer. We as readers are teased with the main characters "hits and misses" as we take in the thoughts and actions of Addison and Taylor. They argue, fight, kiss and all this is all part of their "tease" or rather their awakening to the possibilities a relationship with each other might bring. We as readers are also "teased" along with the two paramours until the we are blessed with a beautiful lovingly detailed erotic love scene. It was well worth the reading and wait for this love scene. This short story is well written. The language in the mouths of the characters is believable. It is an highly entertaining read...one-click to a lover's world of surprises. I give it a rating of 4.5. I round up because, I hope never to be a source of discouragement for any great/good author and in recognition of the monumental creative effort writing can entail. I know the customer will get their value from the read and the author will continue to bless us with her prodigious talents.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Never Enough; Author: Roxie Noir; Genres: romance; Review: There will "Never" be "Enough" drugs to fill the emptiness This is a well-written but difficult read, however, it is not without its delights. The first part of the book we meet Gavin, the gorgeous, tattooed, hard-partying, bad boy millionaire rockstar who is months out of rehab recovering from drug and alcohol addiction primarily, heroin. By happenstance, he meets Marisol the scrapping law student who works hard and cares for her family. She is the first woman that made him feel and reassured him that he can feel after years of substance abuse and indiscriminate sex. They make a deal for the sake of public relations, that Marisol will be his paid fake girlfriend. Marisol accepts, of course, for the money initially, but things progress to a real relationship. The first part of the book seems frustratingly slow, but after considering the larger themes of the book, it was appropriate pacing to bring across the message of the difficulty of recovery and the difficult decision whether to involve oneself with the recovering addict. Gavin is a tempting delicious man and written to be a masterful lover with a British accent "to boot". The hot erotic scenes are some of the pleasures of this book. Ms. Noir has a particular flair with writing erotica. There are scenes in this book that simply break your heart. It is hard work to recover. Everyday there is a big decision to make along with the numerous ways your life must change to better insure success. Relapse not only hurts you but you will break the heart of your love and lose the one thing that fills this yawning void in your soul. This is a beautiful and serious love story. It is sexy and parts of it are so not. This is also a romantic love story. But it is a love story that teaches the reader so many things about relationships, romance of a different shade, what it takes to really love someone...And while having a support system and a great love in your life is wonderful, the decision not to succumb to the aching emptiness found in substance abuse, rests squarely on you, yourself everyday. One-click to this moving and beautiful story of love.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: His Muse: A Dark Alpha Bad Boy Romance; Author: Isabella Starling; Genres: children, romance; Review: Oooooh I Do Love Them Dark and Dirty!!! Perfect!!! Throw the rule books away!!! This has got to be one of the steamiest, kinkiest, hottttttest piece of erotica I have read. The premise and trope is a little, just a tad, scandalous. The characters are written as if they were a snapshot in time. They're not actually fully developed but as they move through this story there is recognizability. Mason is simply all that is beautiful about a male and so complicated...so invested in his erotic obsession and desire. He fights for control and his battle is so sexy and leaves the reader yearning and breathless. His "Cara mia" is that precocious ripe 18 year old bursting with a newly discovered sexuality...one of those women who revel in the gifts of sensuality, sexual play and breathtaking erotica. What a way to pay the "V" card. If we all could be so lucky as to have a man so crazy about us he practices so it is absolutely perfect for us like Mason practiced and prepared for....yes...his love. Ms. Starling is gifted in her flowing prose that pulls the reader into the erotic scene. I swear she had me so far into the action, I was in a kind of reader "subspace". I needed "aftercare". I absolutely adore a writer than can make you feel. Regardless of my personal proclivities or lack there of, I could feel the intensity of the erotica and even if it is something " beyond the pale" of anything I may experience, the action was believable...as"mad" as it may have seemed. One last salient point and this one is for those who may be tempted to judge this wonderful story as too dark and dirty. Well, it was on the dark side and ooooh so dirty, but monogamy after they met each other ruled the day. Our beautiful sexually wild young woman "knew" in the biblical sense only one man. It was true love and in the end it was for procreation. "All things work for good" Believe me if you love erotic romance, dark romance, bad boy romance, Alpha Dominant Male romancer, don't even give yourself time to mess it up and miss this. One-click your way to "Oh my Gaaaaaaawd!!!!" I was offered an ARC and how could I not help myself but volunteer to tell you about what I found in this erotic treasure. I needed to purchase a final copy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Stripped: A Bad Boy Next Door Romance; Author: Nikki Chase; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Stripping is just an "illusion" of sharing oneself. This is another great romance written b Ms. Chase. Complete with one very hot, but very pissed off Dominant Alpha male, Jacob, and smokin' hot, a little kinky, but also tender, erotic love scenes. The story involves Jessica aka Scarlett trying to hide from her past for two reasons. One is to save her life and the other is to simply be accepted as a member of what is considered as "normal" society. Jacob first saw her as Scarlett the stripper and for years the night they spent together was burned in his memory. And so as the fates allow, they meet each other again. She is literally a damsel in distress on the side of a deserted road. She is hiding in a small community and is a local teacher, having earned her credentials while stripping. Their chemistry is explosive and as suspicious a she is about Jacob, she simply could not deny his beautiful Dominant male seductive enticement. The steamy scenes are wonderful, exciting, and very, very...one more...very enjoyable. Ms. Chase also has something to say about strippers and erotic dancers as well. I think I caught some symbolism commenting on this subject with the lake? It seems an erotic dancer gives little of herself to her audience. Ironically while baring her body to the audience, she let's none of her real person or emotions show, often relying on tricks like eye contact to earn more tips. It is through the safety and strength of love and acceptance that she openly shares who she really is. "There's a big crowd watching us, but everything fades away in this moment. I'm not performing for an audience; I'm giving my favorite people a glimpse into my life, so they can see how happy Jacob makes me." One of my last takeaways from this story is the idea that perhaps we need not be so judgemental of the erotic dancer. It's a job and the smart ones keep it professional. We my even be surprised at who we may know that has done this before...and come on who hasn't fantasised about holding the imaginations of an audience in the undulations of your perfect stripper's body?!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dirty Filthy Rich Boys: A Prologue (Dirty Duet #0.5); Author: Laurelin Paige; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Beware my lovelies, this Prologue will grab you by the mind and heart. It will not let go! This is not your average story of hot rich uber-sexy boys on their way to matriculation at their Ivy League School. The poor middle class girl earns a seat at their table through her hard work, her parent's sacrifice and her sheer intelligence. She has a beautiful magical name, Sabrina (Bree). She is determined to rise above her circumstances and even above the rich boys. Her resolve to hate the wealthy boys and their ways dissolves before the masculine beauty of Weston King. But there is someone watching her and he really does not want to notice her. He is Donovan Kincaid, nearly a brother to Weston, 4 years older pursuing an advanced degree which entails some teaching responsibilities. In a sheer moment of despicable awfulness, another student sexually assaults...nearly raping Bree. Donovan is there at the moment before the deed is consummated to stop the assault rather aggressively. It is in this moment that Donovan and Sabrina are caught up in a strange, seemingly dark and twisted dance of their psyches and sexuality. Donovan, knowing Sabrina is a virgin out of sheer conjecture, makes sure he is her first lover. Since she caught the eye of Weston and you get the feeling he's jealous but there is just something about Sabrina he wants, maybe needs, but does not want to want or need. I will leave there dear reader, because there is so much to find out about how the story in the book turns and in what direction it will take you. The writing is superb, first class, and intensely felt. Again this is not a casual "coffee-break" sexy time romance. This is hotness that burns you from the inside out and becomes a companion to you throughout your days. It is haunting. One-click to grab a taste of this pleasurable dirty, filthy psycho-sexual torment. I dare you to stop after the Prologue!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Your Daddy; Author: B.B. Hamel; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: Life has sweetness when you and your "Sugar Daddy" fall in love!!! What a wonderful action-packed story with themes of overwhelming sibling jealousy, paternal physical abuse, the courage it takes to run even without a plan, warm feelings from taking care of "spoiling" someone and the recipient of the largess gracefully accepting the care. B. B. Hamel writes this fast moving story most skillfully. She describes for us heart-stopping Dominant sex play that both characters mutually enjoy. Our heroine feels that the sure command of her body by his man's touch is one of the advantages of her man being close to twenty years older than her. They actually are written as if they were made for each other. "I'll always take care of her . I'll give her more than she can possibly imagine. And in return, she'll give me meaning, purpose, the whole damn world. I couldn't have asked for anything more." - Carson So the helpless urchin hiding in a doorway shivering from the cold without a nickel in her pocket ,Kylie found by Carson, a man of wealth, prestige, presence and education gives him meaning, purpose and the whole world. She, in turn, is cared for, spoiled, enjoys a singular type of "Daddy" sex play. The gifts they bring to each other are healing to both of them with their past psyche wounds and relieving any stress of the day and let's just get real for a moment...their sexplay is hot, hot, hot, sexy deliciously described out-of-this-world fun! It sure is delightful to read. This author builds excellent tension in action and the pacing throughout is marvelous. I accepted an ARC but the final copy of this one just had to become part of my kindle library. This author never disappoints. One-click your way to a modern-day fairy tale! But, but, but don't forget this Daddy is sweet but a little dirty.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dirty CEO; Author: Vivian Connelly; Genres: romance; Review: "Dirty" is Good! It's Uber-Sexy!! Dirty is Delicious!!! This is a modern day fairytale for modern day dirty, dirty girls. This poor "Dirty CEO" is a target of corporate espionage by a seriously impressionable, naive, and ambitious career woman. Our beautiful male CEO likes to play bedroom games and our little luscious, but naive corporate spy meets him at the club where he likes to play in an effort to get close to him. Because of the chemistry between them causing a smoldering reaction, the motivations for getting close to him begin to change. Of course, our "Dirty CEO", Ethan is onto our spy, Jennifer the whole time, so he is apparently OK with a little spying and...ahem the maneuvers and means employed by our spy. "'You need to relax Jennifer.'Relax - that was easy for him to say. I was now completely naked and tied to his bed and he was starting to get undressed. I thought I had a handle on the situation. I thought I had everything under control. But he had total control of me now. And I realized now I didn't want it any other way..."- Jennifer As in every HEA fairytale the situation resolves itself and it does in some interesting ways. Do some of the details off the story seem a little out-there? Well yes, and the reader really should not mind. After all this story involves a little taste of escapism whether bit be the hot, rich, smart Dominant male into some light BDSM who maybe falls in love with the full-figured blinded by ambition corporate spy sent his way...or the panting-inducing, hold your breath, oh this so hot hot hot where is my man...its Valentines Day and I want some...erotic scenes. Yes, they are written that well. I was honored to receive an ARC but I had. to have a final copy in my kindle library so I one-clicked. The book was a short read and that might be appealing to some. The rating I gave the author is generous because it is Valentine's Day and it seems there are enough critics dissecting the work out there. I loved it for the "dirty-good" fairytale it is. If you enjoy "dirty-good" fairy tales than one-click to meet the "Dirty CEO"; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hungry Boss; Author: Luke Steel; Genres: romance; Review: This Story is about not one, but two "Hungry Bosses" This is an amazingly written story about two people, one beautiful driven workaholic man who created his company with his own capital and ideas and one very beautiful and powerful women who did much the same with her organization. The night before they meet, they find themselves in a dreamlike oh...so sexy encounter in the business center of the hotel they are both staying at for the evening. It was just supposed to be one of those sexy encounters you keep in your private treasures of memories. It was lip smacking and d@@k smacking good. The next day they discover that they are who they are and the careful negotiations prepared by Nate ,for the acquisition of Emma's company by Nate's organization, go awry. Is it because there is still residual sexual tension? Is it because Nate was knocked off his game plan? ...Or is it because Emma is right about her contentions and he, Nate needs to rework the terms of the deal? While they continue to negotiate the deal, this is a smokin' hot story primarily about a Alpha male who is deliciously sexual with a voracious appetite for his new obsession, Emma. I love too hear his inner dialogue about what is happening to his body and what he appreciates about Emma when he is in the act. I love what he says to Emma during the act. I enjoy hearing about how he needs to adjust himself in his pants for fear of embarrassment. I adore how he loves and desires Emma...how he smells her, tastes her everywhere, and devours her. This is sometimes syrupy and sometimes hot hard sex that potentially moves the reader to feel the intensity and heat. Toward the end Nate suddenly has a revelation about his feelings for Emma. Question is...is he too late? Will these "Hungry Bosses" find their fill? If you like it uber-sexy and told from a man's point of view (something I find refreshing now and then myself), this short book is a no think one-click to the desires of a sexually hungry man...oh...and woman of course. Don't forget knowledge is power and empowering; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: BUSH: A Wild Romance; Author: Rocklyn Ryder; Genres: romance; Review: Going "Rogue" Has a Whole New Meaning; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hail Mary; Author: Vanessa Fox; Genres: romance; Review: "Impossibly green grass" I found myself actually moved to tears while reading this book and I have read and reviewed over 200 books in the romance genre in the last couple of years. Very few have moved me to actual wet stuff coming down my face. I was so surprised. If I could give a book 6 maybe even 10 stars, I would give this book those stars. This was not your average hot, successful, tongue hanging out of your head, football hero romance novel, although, our football hero, Kade is written as the requisite hottie with the green as grass eyes. It was also not some angsty melodrama in which romance novel junkies such as myself like to escape. It was not without erotic moments but even that took a backseat to the searing emotional content. I liked it written this way and again this is coming from someone who loves it seriously naughty. What it was about is the real pain of betrayal and what the lack of trust can do to shatter a relationship. It is about living in the grey bleak world when you feel you have lost that one and only for you. It is about the doubt that creeps into a relationship when the one you love seems to exist in a different world than you or even speaks a different language. Let's say he speaks in football plays and she understands the themes in the literature of Albert Camus. It's about seeming to have the whole world at your feet and feeling the emptiness of having no one special to share it with you. It's about where the grass is greener or where there is "impossibly green grass". It seems the love in the green eyes of Kade is where Willow found the greenest grass despite her false bravado and literal fear of having a relationship with someone that everybody in the world literaly wanted a piece, not t mention the women who threw themselves at Kade. This was a tour de force for this author. And...she writes exciting football scenes on top of everything else. This book is one of the reasons I enjoy receiving ARC's. I volunteered to read and review this book. I am enriched as a person because I did. Naturally, out of sheer respect for this author's talent, I purchased a final copy. I guarantee you will be enriched as a person as well in the twinkling of a one-click.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dusty & Daddy (Experienced Men, #2); Author: Savannah May; Genres: romance; Review: "The only man that's ever existed for me." - Dusty Rose This is an intensely sexual (bordering on pornography) written shorter story about an honorable man, Killian who had so much of a soft spot for a neglected 14 year old girl, he married the mother for the sole purpose of caring for this sweet, precocious girl, Dusty Rose. He was an honorable man. He was also blessed with charm and movie star good looks...oh and a killer body in every respect. As Dusty Rose grew into her teenage years, she found herself in her burgeoning sexuality desiring a sexual relationship with her sexy, attentive and attractive stepfather. And certainly there was little love lost between Dusty Rose's mother and Killian. Killian kept himself in check the entire time Dusty Rose would literally throw her body at him and fondle him in blatantly sexual ways. Her immaturity was injurious to Killian. Because of his rejection of her sexually out of honor and her welfare, she lied about Killian having a sexual relationship with her. Killian was sent to jail, lost his billion dollar company and spent two years in jail dreaming of Dusty Rose. After his release, his intentions were still of only watching over her from a distance insuring she is well and cared for. Dusty Rose was punishing herself by working as a server in a low-rent strip club, holding on to her virginity and pining for her true love Killian. When Killian is released from jail, she is of age but conditions of Killian's parole put him in jeopardy if they are seen together. Despite the danger, they take some chances and find a way. Dusty Rose still acts quite immature and almost unbelievably horny all the time. No need to seduce her or him for that matter. Just put them in the same room and bam they're going at it...And I suppose a little seduction between the two is what I sensed was missing in this short novel. The melodrama or angst was created by outside influences...outside threats. The sex while descriptive and hot became a bit of a sexual overload. So while you do have that "sweetest taboo" element going on to satisfy your sweet tooth for erotica, you may also overdose on the sugar high that is this novel.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Call Me Pomeroy; Author: James Hanna; Genres: fiction; Review: A Modern Day "Don Quixote-esque" Character with a Perpetual "Sword" in His Pants Words...I have to find words for this most entertaining, enlightening and "novel" work of literature. Reading this as a woman, I sometimes felt like a bucket of cold water was just dumped on my head. But I survived and read on! Pomeroy is one for the books. He is deluded, narcissistic, dangerous, educated more than your average "loon" on the fringe of society that you will eventually love getting to know. He is certain the "spinners" out there are holding their breath for "Ole Pomeroy" to come around and bless them with his 10. The man finds himself in jail quite a lot and wrapped up in any number of social causes...sort of caught up in the crowd on a tide. He writes a catchy and vulgar tune that becomes a sensational anthem again claimed by anarchists, "femen" terrorists, "the occupy" movement and even lesser causes. Given the political climate of today, I was almost nostalgic about this recent past This was purely a feeling elicited by the writing not any statement I am making. He is a sensationalized figure on the internet because he swings his guitar or "the jawbone of an ass" and assaults police personnel from Oakland, CA through Europe. The writing of this novel was actually lush with Pomeroy's stream of conscious allusions to great works of literature he spends hours reading...his certainty of his sexual prowess and desirability...his plans and certainty that he is going to be a multimillionaire rock star with a need for a manager of his sex life and his career. He travels across the pond. Some of the best laugh out loud writing was what happens in France. It all is really funny but what happens in France "superb". The one constant in his life is his parole officer, Jessica. Their interactions are most entertaining and surprising in the end. While reading this, one is aware that a great deal of " license" is exercised in describing the events of the time, it makes it funny in a cerebral sort of fashion. However, other feelings are conjured in the heart and thoughts in the mind because what is described in exaggeration is true in a simpler form. Are we where we are now as a nation , as a world, because of what the adventures of Pomeroy has shown us? For a twisted cerebral, bawdy, hysterical read, this is a perfect taste of satire.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Forbidden (Songs of Perdition, #1-3); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: God and His Gift of Love is Found in What's Forbidden I was deeply affected by this book. It took me 24hours to simply process the richness of the writing and the significance of the words. I read the entire book in one sitting, and I simply cannot read another word until I attempt to do a little justice to this book in a review, no matter how pitiful my attempt. On a visceral level it is about a wealthy young famous socialite woman who is caught up in a vapid life of drugs and BDSM sex as a drug. She is troubled and has been troubled since childhood. She has lived a life of rich-kid partying and promiscuity. The author is very descriptive in her writings about the scenes and dynamics of these parties and most explicit are the scenes describing the BDSM. These scenes can be inescapably titillating at times, much the way Elliot felt after Fiona described an encounter with her Master Deacon during a therapy session. He barely could control his arousal. Fiona finds herself in a psychiatric institution drying out from any number of addicting substances after she stabbed her Master Deacon in the chest with a blunt instrument. It is here she meets Elliot, her psychiatrist. It is here were the seeds of love are planted when they both find heat and connection in a simple touch. Fiona is raped in this institution and even she shrugs it off and feels that her promiscuous life simply invites this treatment, but no. Her no meant no. She did not give consent. She also reveals in her therapy that she was raped as a young woman. As she gains insight about herself she begins or rather she had begun to pull away from her BDSM Master Deacon. He is described as a beautiful, powerful, force of nature with arresting blue eyes. He, despite himself, loves Fiona and needs her, even though they booth discover she is really not a true submissive. Elliot, Elliot, Elliot discovers himself changing because he is falling in love with the impossibly wild child Fiona. He has been putting off the last steps in becoming an Episcopalian priest because he questions his strength of faith. As the story progresses, he is willing to risk his job as a therapist and his license to practice for the love of Fiona. "I'm a sensible guy. I think things through, and anything that's too risky--I don't do. But you woke something up in me. I was dead. My life was dead. Then you came, and I feel God in you. I hear him in your voice. The crazy [shoot] you do... he speaks to me. I don't know how long I'll last on a rollercoaster. But all I want right now is for you to get out of here so I can experiment with your body." "Will God keep talking to you if I stop doing crazy [shoot]?" "I hope I find out soon." - Elliot As Fiona finding herself in her readmission to the psychiatric institution,; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ruckus (Sinners of Saint, #2); Author: L.J. Shen; Genres: romance; Review: "Lo, how a Rose e'er blooming" - 15th Century originally sung Cologne, Germany "Lo, how a Rose e'er blooming From tender stem hath sprung! Of Jesse's lineage coming As men of old have sung. It came, a flower bright, Amid the cold of winter When half-gone was the night." 15th Century originally sung Cologne,Germany "Because the birdsong might be pretty , But it's not for you they sing , And if you think my winter is too cold , You don't deserve my spring." Erin Hanson - epigraph,"Ruckus" Every book in this series, Sinners of Saint, was written with artistic intention. The reader is not only simply entertained with the devastating "alpha-lishous" men and their exploits ; but also enlightened with artistic explorations of ideas pertaining to the meaning in life itself. Ms. Shen sets a beautiful, strong but wilting flower, Rosie opposite a seemingly carefree, constant partying, "sexual god" of a protagonist. "Seriously, the man was so outrageously hot, he was probably outlawed in ultra-religious countries." - Rosie Their chemistry was undeniable from the first. Yet, the fact that he previously dated her sister and she described to Rosie that Dean (Ruckus) took her virginity left a searing mark on Rosie's psyche for ten years. The reader commiserates with Rosie who in many ways feels cheated. She was cheated out of her one true love. She is after all expected to die an early death from Cystic Fibrosis. So much of her life involves the necessary rituals she performs and precautions she must take to manage her condition. She cannot have a normal relationship with her parents who naturally always worry about her. She cannot have children. Despite the illness, she is a lovely pixie of woman with a tremendous capacity for love and passion. She just can't afford to waste it. Dean,"Ruckus" Cole is a privileged wealthy man who has demons and secrets he just cannot seem to shake. He is irrepressible and irresponsible. He has been given everything and he has every "thing". He is ruin where Rosie needs life. Yet, despite all of what he is and is not, Rosie needs him to stop her own wilting. In the end, Rosie needs him to really live. After a decade of denial, Rosie and Dean come together. He tries to stop his self-ruin with drugs and alcohol but still he is broken and there is a secret in his past that needs to come forward. He needs to face it and accept his new reality. His conflicts are conflicts which nearly cause irreparable harm...very nearly are his complete undoing. This writer employs a deft hand in portraying the emotions and drama of a woman who needs to be so focused on her own illness and even preoccupied with her early death. That the answers to Dean's brokenness were complex and he stumbled badly along the way made him all the more real to the reader. Their sizzling erotic encounters brought the reader inside, and intimately close with these compelling characters. Simply, all the "feels"! I might also add that; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Jack Part One and Two; Author: K.B. Winters; Genres: romance; Review: "You need to get over yourself." - Gemma speaking to "Jack," This is an enchanting and entertaing two part love saga about the level of trust, commitment and selflessness required as foundation blocks for a love that lasts a lifetime. It is beautifully written...I could almost smell the salt air and hear the ocean waves rolling on the shore. There are a lot of charming moments and some deliciously sexy lovemaking. Jack is a muscled hunk of a man who recently left his military career of being a highly decorated fighter jet pilot. His very identity was wrapped up in adventure and the prestige of his duties and rank. Having proposed to the love of his life, he was viewing the next steps in his relationship through the lens of his past experiences. Being settled down seemed stifling and without the brightness and excitement of his former profession. In much the same way, Holly views their relationship through the lens of her past which involved infidelity, betrayal and divorce. They are written to be meant for each other. In the tradition of this genre of romance, they fight, obsess, draw closer and pull apart until events transpire that make them both rethink their ideas...such as Jack getting over himself. You probably know there is a HEA. The joy and insight is gained by reading what it looks like and how Jack and Holly find it. It is a most enjoyable read. I received an ARC and happily volunteered to leave a review after I read. As you can tell by my review I really got quite a lot out of it. This should be a one-click for you if you enjoy a hearty serving of romance, sweet sexy-time and having your heartstrings tugged.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Jacked; Author: Melinda Minx; Genres: thriller, comics, crime, graphic, romance, mystery; Review: He has some beautiful wood; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hard Boss; Author: Luke Steel; Genres: romance; Review: "And now everything's a mess. A hot, sexy, agony-and-ecstasy kind of mess." - Lucy Ahhhh....the billionaire male writer who knows of what he writes. Makes the book practically irresistible for the erotic romance reader to pass up a chance to read of his adventures and stories. It is like adding a super sexy romantic fantasy wrapped up in the fantasy that some or even all of what we are reading may be real and autobiographical from this writer who calls himself Luke Steel. Well, I am as fun loving as the next girl and if this is indeed a male writing and a billionaire to boot, then God Bless America and slap me silly, there is hope left in the world if a super sexy, gorgeous man of experience and means can be such a practiced, creative, patient lover who gets excited by the different sounds he can elicit from an accomplished, former military, beautiful woman who is not a socialite or famous anything. And so it is with our romantic hero, Dominic...he finds himself inexplicably drawn to his new administrative assistant, Lucy. She is the above described woman with the "spine of steel" and even that is a "turn on" to Dominic. He likes her around. He likes to talk to her. Oooh and he loves to do things to her that when described makes the reader weak in the knees and creates other symptomaology similar to having stood too close to the sun - achingly hot and burning all over. Of course Dominic's past experience with women color this brand new fresh thing he has with Lucy but being afraid or cautious in matters of the heart from previous experiences is only too human. Difficulty in verbalizing just what may be going on with him also creates doubt and a pulling back of Lucy's affections for Dominic. It is in this mess, a surprise element of clarity is revealed and well...I will leave you to enjoy "la fin". I must say the writing is quite good. The story follows an understandable arc. There are some smiles and this author is unique in his description. The characters are recognizable and fleshed out. It is deliciously hot and worth a one-click for an afternoon or evening's entertainment. Oh...and you just might find yourself rereading it or at least certain passages from time to time. The gift that just keeps on giving.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Cole; Author: Tijan; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: "He was perfect. There were no other words. He could've been a weapon himself, just his body." - Addison An engaging and exciting read! This is my first book I have read from this author. The beginning completely captivates the reader and before you now it, you're committed and unable to it this book down. I love the dark and sexy description of when Cole and Addison exchange glances. The mystery surrounding Cole builds wonderful tension into the romance between Addison and him. "He was beautiful, like a fallen angel, but so lethal at the same time."- Addison The ancillary characters of Sia and Jake add color and dimension to the story. All in all, a compelling setup for a story to knock the readers socks off. The writing is beautiful descriptive prose and the story has a "twisty" trope. Just a few minor personal observations. While the sex scenes start out great, I prefer a more explicit description of loving erotic sex and a man with the "dark an dangerous" vibe of Cole would surely do more then have missionary position sex? Hearing from him about his explicit desires would also add a whole new level of sexy to this book. Perhaps this is a deliberate choice of the writer who knows her particular audience and their level of comfort with sex description? In the same way the plot setup was stellar but when it came time to put the pieces together from the climax on, the story was a bit convoluted and the reasons for behaviors earlier by characters did not ring true to a "Mafia" mentality. I was left with the feeling of not really having known much about Cole at all, what his days are like, what he likes, what other than running and taking care of horses does he like to do? As his name is the book's title, the reader should know so much more about him. I would even like a frank description of all of his body naked, sparing NO detail. There are so many varied reasons behind our desire to read different books in different genres. The romance genre for women offers that quiet escape to the mind from day-to-day reality. Exciting, sexy stories generally suit the purpose. This story is one such exciting story and if you like your sexy mild to medium, than this is the perfect level of heat for you.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bossy Billionaire; Author: Mia Madison; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "I could stare at this one girl all night. Jolie Jamison is becoming an addiction."- Brand This book was one delicious piece of beautiful erotica. It showcases one of the most beloved fantasy tropes, the handsome...actually gorgeous...man smitten by a woman of substance and beauty. More then this he begins to break his own rules which serve to guard him against intimacy. And so it is when Brand meets Jolie, it's insta-lust and actually blossoming insta-love. Their erotic scenes are written so blisteringly hot, lightheadedness may occur. The themes of shibari, bondage and Dominance are gently artfully and skillfully touched upon. Even so, Jolie has a past she needs to reconcile with her present. She is a captivating beauty which is enhanced by her intelligence, her ambition and her fierce independence. Brand is a scrumptious book boyfriend. One of my favorites. He, too, has some relationship experiences that apparently caused him pain. We all want to be intimately "known" and loved simply for the person who we are, not for what we can do for the other person...sexually, monetarily or improvement in social standing. This is one well-written, beautiful, rich and sexy read. Just one-click to taste its delights.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Run; Author: Kristi Beckhart; Genres: romance; Review: "You are a goddess. And I am yours."- Sam When I was invited to read a few of these fan written story contributions to "The Drazen World". I did not even know of the existence of these special " worlds". This is my first read and I loved it so much, I purchased the book as a show of support for the fist-time author. I am becoming more and more familiar with this world. It looks as if I have a book or two to read by CD Reiss to catch up, which of course is always a thrill. Regardless of my "Drazen World" ignorance, I appreciated this well written purpose filled story which is touching and beautiful. Yvonne (Eve) is a hardworking goal oriented recently single mother on the "run" from as we find out later in the book an alcoholic abusive husband. She really does not have time for nor is she actively seeking male companionship. Our writer brings Sam and Eve together with lingering heated glances, palpable with the slightest touch...sexual chemistry and Sam's persistence in the pursuit of Eve. The book offers a realistic reaction of an abused woman who is finding strength and security in her independent single self to any idea of male Dominance in the bdsm culture. It is an initial not only no...but hell... no! Yet, her first tiny taste of Sam' s Dominance made her weak in the knees. It was a subtle move but she felt the Dom in him awaken. And...of course being true to a Dominant's responsibilities, Sam is tender and loving after every sexual encounter. When she asks him point blank if he ever participated in bdsm play, he was honest and told her yes. This was challenging to Eve because she was confusing the abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex husband with s/D play. After seeking counsel from Monica, Jonathan Drazen's girl friend and considering who Sam is and how presents himself, she decides to take a chance, take it slow and begin a new chapter in her life enjoying and trusting that Sam would never hurt her maliciously. This story is not without some interesting twists and turns at the end. The best is Sam recognizing that there just may be a little kink in the woman he calls goddess and mine. So many romance readers can truly relate to the particular themes in this story. I believe the writer captured a universal bias or fear woman have regarding bdsm, even though the thought of a loving Dominant male is swoon worthy. It was a lovely story that captures this dilemma with pitch perfect characters. I truly enjoyed my visit to this corner of "The Drazen World" where the imagination of Ms. Beckhart set the scene with her characters and the insights gained from their stories. It's one-click to a new corner of a different albeit a very enjoyable world.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Python; Author: Alexis Angel; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: "But, when everyone thought of me like a poster girl for disaster, the world turned around on its axis and gave me a chance." - Destiny When you have an author title a book, "Python" in this genre, no one is thinking that we will be reading a herpetological tome on reptiles.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ashley Vs. Boss; Author: Mona Cox; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "You're smiling to yourself and thinking of how the Wolf of New York is nothing more than a little lost puppy aren't you?" - Apollo Ooooh this author reaches inside of your most delicious and wicked fantasy and puts "pen to paper". Not only is the sex beyond the description of hot but the storyline is every romance novel junkie's dream. Ashley is a free-spirited, principled and of course gorgeous young professional trying to make her way in the big city. She catches the eye and (no secret here) the heart of Apollo. How she catches him is worth the read! Apollo is that beautiful, Dominant and oh so genetically gifted romantic hero aka " the Wolf of New York". This story is about attraction, romance and sex. Well it's mostly about sex. Sex the way some or perhaps many of us dirty dirty girls dream of and want..sex the way if some of the men in our lives knew we read about, they would not be so befuddled about how much time we spend with our noses in the kindle; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Color Me Wicked; Author: A.R. Hadley; Genres: romance; Review: "I wanted to write him. Not just lists. Write his soul in words and then lie down in the letters and fall asleep." - Deirdre Reading and reviewing these "Drazen World" stories are making me so very excited to read the stories by CD Reiss that were the genesis of it all. This story had a dreamlike quality to it...the lists that read like poetry...the description of the male protagonist, Jeremiah's art...the quality of his love and love-making...Deirdre's senseless acts with Pierce which only made clear to her heart and mind that she did indeed love Jeremiah... her misstep into alcohol oblivion. It seemed all so hazy and it really did not come together for me until the end when Deirdre made it clear and plain to Jeremiah that she loved him. I suppose what threw me as a reader was the nonchalant approach of Deirdre to her first love scene with Jeremiah. In a shorter story it seems like a missed opportunity to sow the deep seeds of love from the beginning. I also have some difficulty finding significance in the oral sex encounter between Pierce and Deirdre. It never was satisfactorily explained as to why a character such as Pierce was doing at a homeless shelter resource center. The story does not seem to have been planned but created out of stream of consciousness much the way poetry comes to the poet. The consensual sex in the world of Drazen is always hot, purposeful and intense. Sadly, this author's sex scenes were perfunctory and anemic. This author is definitely facile with language and can conceptualise deep, soul-stirring themes. It is a matter of discipline to carefully plan your characters and their interactions with the goal of telling a story that has thematic content and soul-felt meaning.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: His Virgin: A Bad Boy Billionaire Romance; Author: Nikki Chase; Genres: romance; Review: "Choose love-- not money or pride. The answer is always love. Every time." - Caine's Father This is a wonderfully written and compelling story that we as readers have come to expect from Nikki Chase. From the beginning the sparks fly between Daisy and Caine. Through sheer determination and despite the handicap of a mother who not only shows no regard for her children but also leeches monetary resources from her daughter, Daisy created a life for herself as a registered nurse. She even provides her little brother a home away from the self-centered clutches of their mother, but it cost her so much money, she reluctantly did business with a loan shark. Trying to pick up extra money to make her loan shark payments, she agrees to be a lingerie cocktail waitress at an exclusive party for the wealthy. It I here where Caine, who saw her previously in her professional nurse scrubs, decides to make her a proposition to be his "pet" for a month. When he learns of her virginity, he is all the more eager to "seal the deal". Our author creates interesting plot twists that keeps the reader involved and rooting for Caine and Daisy. Caine has some personal demons to wrangle before there can be that delicious HEA that we as readers of this genre cannot get enough. As to Caine and his book-boyfriend potential? He is perfectly delicious. Daisy's hands become our hands. Daisy's lips become our lips...well you kinda get the idea. The erotic scenes put the reader right there and they are very, very, very hot and satisfying! A fan of this genre is most definitely a fan of Ms. Chase's work. One-click your way to a story of hot, steamy, twisty, "turny" HEA.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Subjugate; Author: Tara West; Genres: romance; Review: "He was strong but willing to let me subjugate him in bed."- Ariana This is an intensely emotional read. Although in the beginning of the novel, Ariana the female protagonist is almost dismissive of the pain lodged in her psyche and we as readers feel this peculiar detachment in the writing. Her break with reality triggered during the filming of a violent assault scene in a film gives us a clue as to why her work world and her love life with a perfectly beautiful man, Brad who loves her is floundering. We learn that Brad literally needs to surrender himself to her bondage for her to enjoy sex. Initially he refuses while she is recovering from her break from reality, but ultimately he acquiesces. True healing begins after she takes a trip back to the town were two rapes from the same man occurred. She especially blames herself for the second rape. When she meets the boy, now a man, who rescued her that second time, she hears that he thought of her as a "badass". She also finds out that he met his wife and became part of the family business as a result of being fired for helping her after her second rape. She finds a way to thank him. She is then freed from the guilt toward and sense of obligation to this man. When she returns home, Brad asks her to meet him at the hospital where he is a respected physician and surgeon. She honestly believes he is going to break up with her. When he sees her, he asks her to come to him on his lap where he cries his heart out over a work-related issue. She finally tells him the things he needs to hear to love and understand her better. The sexual dynamic shifts and she allows the power exchange to play out differently. "So this is what it feels like to be loved? Dear God, I think I could love this man back." - Ariana In the end, this book is about healing deep wounds of the psyche. The sexplay itself was not a significant element in Ariana's healing. It was more of a barometer of her pathology. The ultimate message from the author best I can discern is that it is the "love" with sex that heals.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Single Dad's Bride; Author: Melinda Minx; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: "'You always had a crush on me,' he says. 'You must have at least fantasized about it,'" - Deacon This was an enchanting, utterly delightful, well-written romance that had all the necessary elements for terrific entertainment. I just love the way Melinda Minx combines a great story with laugh out loud situations and pulse pounding action, dirty sweet seduction and blisteringly hot erotica. Everything starts with our seemingly bad, "bad boy". Deacon (ah such a great name) is a " tatted up", every ab muscled defined ending in that oh so sexy "V", and thick beautiful biceps to hang onto in certain situations. However the sexiest thing about him is how much he loves and cares for his little daughter. And so begins the trope of his deceased wife's parents out of grief or other, perhaps even, nefarious purposes challenging Deacon for custody of his daughter. Their claim is that his tattoo business attracts unsavory characters and this is an unhealthy influence on the little girl. So, on advice from his attorney, he " fake" marries an acquaintance who is his sister's prudish (or so it seems) friend, Rita, to appear stable and settled before the judge who is deciding the motion before the court. Well, despite himself and despite beautiful Rita's denial, there is chemistry. Most deliciously written by Ms. Minx is the slow, sweet but definitely dirty, mutual seduction occurring between the both of them. The full on culmination of said seduction is toe-curling, pantingly, and panty-meltingly beautiful erotica. The story itself becomes dramatically engrossing as the relationship between Deacon and Rita blooms into reality. The writing is superb as the reader finds themselves laughing, smiling and breathless for the excitement. This edition I purchased came with another story written by the author, "Smoulder". I was equally enthralled with this tale involving another sex on a plate hero bad boy needing a quick "fake" wife. Again the writer blends excellent storytelling with hot, hot...I'm melting or maybe it's just my panties, hot erotica. So you have it...double the pleasure...double the fun...Seems I heard that somewhere. Now, I am just dating myself. I have to say it is a great fun to get two for one...click; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Banshee's Tattoo; Author: Michelle McCleod; Genres: romance, thriller, crime, paranormal, fantasy, mystery; Review: "Hollaback Girl" or Something Like That! OK, I was in the mood for something quick and Irish...and maybe a little supernatural. This quick short story fit the bill quite nicely. It was a hot sexy tale about a hot sexy Irishman that had a little problem heretofore handled by "magic" tattoos and getting the "hey" out of the way. Well during a wailing hurricane and other wailing things he meets a cute Latina princess who has a different solution to all his problems. The story is short hot and sweet and for me a lovely St. Patrick's Day treat!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Wolf (Hell's Lovers MC, #1); Author: Crimson Syn; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, romance; Review: This "Wolf" will have your inner kitty purrrrring!!! Guaranteed!!! Please forgive me for mixing canine metaphors with feline metaphors, there is simply no helping it. When we first meet Wolf Stone through the eyes of Scarlett Chase all that makes you a "kitty-cat" just goes meow. I'm talking about that certain meow that kitties have when they really see and smell something they like. There is also a little chattering noise that kitties make when they spy something from afar they would love to pounce on. I think I personally made the human equivalent of this sound. This man was written to be "alphalicious". He is a beautiful male specimen with cool blue eyes. He meets his match in a beautiful, initially unbeknownst to him, MC princess who is not only a beautiful woman but smart and educated. She is a lawyer and is hired by the MC night club owner to be his personal and business legal consultant. He must rein in his desire for the beauty because of her status. The daughters of members are untouchable. He would risk his business and be physically beaten if he violated this rule. Scarlett has no idea why this hot man, Wolf will not touch her and the lengths she goes to make it happen are great reading. This author has what it takes to write erotica that sizzles and makes you pray. Yes, pray for a day that you could be so lucky to feel what she describes so unmercifully hotly in her erotic love scenes. The quality of her writing is quite nice and I do hope to see her garner more success along her journey. I say write on, you have the gift. I encourage anyone who enjoys romance especially this unique trope in romance the MC, giuve this a little taste. You will purr right along with me and maybe even make that crazy "chattering" sound. Your loved ones will definitely wonder. Your love will get the message a new and novel way.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Spin (Corruption, #1); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: "This is my Neapolitan camorra. These are my rituals, my sold souls, my men of honor." CD Reiss Oh my Heavenly Creator!!! This is actually a prayer of thanks for the brilliance and rare gift of writing genius that is CD Reiss. This story read like whip cream is rich and a singular but well-loved taste treat. The words, oh the words for even the most mundane happening are beautiful and charged with energy and blessed with layers of meaning. The excerpt below describes Theresa's first awareness of the man she would come to love completely. "I was struck by a distraction that cut me to the core. I smelled pine trees, deep in the forest, damp in the morning after a night of campfires and singing. The burning char and dew mingled in the song-like trails of cigarette smoke, rising and disappearing." Beautiful words and word pictures! And so it is most appropriate that Antonio's scent is the first thing that attracts the attention of Theresa. The sense of smell communicates love and attraction in a language of the senses ancient and deep within the person hood of a soul. The dramatic pull and tug she felt between the lingering love she felt for her cheating fiance who is a politician running for mayor and...the beautiful male mafia "cappo" who is too beautiful to be her type. Yet, she feels the gravitas of real passion and then love for this dangerous man. Their first kiss is described in the following quote: "His kiss was a study in paying attention, reacting to me as I reacted to him with increasing intensity. When his tongue touched mine, I lost myself in desire. His hands stayed on my neck, and I became aware of their power and gentleness." There are twists and turns in this story that keep the reader engaged, on your toes and dizzy with dripping desire for the erotic love scenes that the author describes so realistically, naturally and beautifully. So much so, one may weep for lack of having such experience or rejoice in finally having what they have experienced in their life into such beautiful words. I have come to appreciate this author's with every word I read. I have become an ardent admirer and I reiterate my gratitude for her gifts. She has much to tell us and even much to teach. And...like every great teacher it is all in the story, its boldness and style. BTW, You really need to read what happens between the characters in the end. "Come vuoi tu."; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ruin (Corruption, #2); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: "Rovinata" "And at the thought of being left a ruined piece of flesh and bone, I burst into flames of sensation, crying his name, be it Capo, or Antonio, or my own personal dance with death. I claimed him to the heavens." - Theresa My inner literature "fangirl" geek comes alive when reading this author. While I enjoy erotic romance and romance stories very much, I also have a love affair with great literary works. CD Reiss writes great literature and I am in love with her writing. These contemporary romances are also written with unedited, unabashed erotic love scenes . All of her writing has meaningful thematic content which is rich in symbolism. Her turn of phrase is exceptional and pure creative genius. In that light, here are a few discoveries from this book that stimulated my thoughts, touched my heart and had me ultimately fall in love with her characters. "Everything bled. The sun bled gold over the skyline." - Theresa The entire first page or so speaks of bleeding. Sometimes she is speaking metaphorically and sometimes she is speaking of the reality of shed blood in Antonio's world. I highlighted at least 10-15 times that blood was used symbolically in this book, mainly when the character Theresa speaks of her deep love for Antonio. ""With Antonio, I'm alive when he's there. It's chemical . My blood goes crazy."- Theresa Blood symbolism carries with it the weight of ancient ideas . Blood carries our life force, our strength. The loss of blood makes us weak and dying. Blood symbolizes passion. And so it is that Theresa the girl and woman who was regal, proper and without any true great passion forges a blood bond of love so deep with her dangerous criminal that she is ruined. Ruined...so that she can no longer accept a life without passion...ruined in that she becomes estranged from her family...ruined in her perfect speech where heretofore never a curse word by her was uttered...ruined in that she no longer can be the regal and winsome politician's fiance. Ruined for any other man that is not Antonio. "I'm upset that you scarred your soul for me. That's the biggest sin I live with." - Antonio Another element of this story which makes it so terrific is the dual point of view. The author gives Antonio a voice with many insights and truths which are expressed most appropriately through him. "...'You are everything that will destroy me. I should go back to who I was. But you made me dream I could be free, when I'd forgotten I was in prison.'" - Antonio "You're from a different world, but you smell like home to me. I haven't been to Napoli in ten years, but whenever you're near me, I smell olive flowers." - Antonio "'Sweet olive blossoms," he said. "That was God's message to me.'" - Antonio Antonio struggles with his deep desire to be with, take care of, make happy and love the woman who smells like home and tastes of freedom. He feels guilt that; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Beg Tease Submit - Sequence One (Songs of Submission, #1-3); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance; Review: "I could write songs about that face, those cheekbones, those eyes, that dry scent."- Monica In the quote I use for the title of my review, Monica who is a singer/songwriter thinks about "the songs" she could write in praise of the beauty of Jonathan Drazen very early on in "Beg" of "Sequence One" in the "Songs of Submission". These songs that begin at that moment as an idea in Monica's mind are part of all the songs enveloped in the prose of CD Reiss. The literary work itself reads like music and in certain passages, even sounds like music. One example that comes to my mind is the rhythmic percussion of the " plink" sound punctuating the prose in a series of passages. Masterful is not adequate to describe the skill and talent of CD Reiss. Mastery is attributed to craftsman able to craft a work of art with great skill. Beyond mastery is artistic inspiration and creativity which allows a work of art to soar above that which is earthbound beauty to the plane of heavenly beauty. There that beauty is recognized as "truth". It is there all great works of art speaking truth meet to elevate mankind's gaze and attention. It is there genius is found. And so this is the rightful place of this work of Ms. Reiss. I am in a serious fangirl mental spin here...allow me to come down to earth and deliver some of the delicious details. This is a love story, a great modern literary love story written in the guise of a heart-pounding erotic romance. Our hero, Jonathan Drazen is a stunningly beautiful bronze tinted hair and smooth ever so lightly freckled skin man with all the physical attributes that make you want to go mm Mumm. His Dominance and swagger and "tourmaline" colored eyes place him up there as one of my all time favorite fantasy book- boyfriends, nay lovers. In all his beautiful maleness, there is a mysterious hurt and guarding of his heart. He makes plain to Monica in the beginning that his heart belongs to his ex wife who hurt him and what he can offer her emotionally is limited by this condition...despite this Monica still sings her siren song with her beauty, natural self and her response to him and his touch. Monica, dubbed "the canary" by a former beau, is serious about her music. It gives her life meaning and she guards and preserves her opportunities jealously. She is wary of over-involvement with anyone who would take her focus away from her songs, her singing and composing. It's the music that gives this canary her wings to fly and her voice to sing. Initially, Jonathan enjoys a quasi-Dominant relationship with Monica, controlling certain aspects of their erotic encounters...more precisely, he controls Monica's responses. Despite her need to fly free she allows this measure of control. She senses in Jonathan his appreciation for her gifts and support for her music, her "songs". In the last book, "Submit" the reader will discover whether Monica can reconcile her "submissiveness" despite; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Songs of Submission: Sequence Two (Songs of Submission, #4-6); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "Her very presence on the earth stirred me." - Jonathan "Six feet two inches of life-damaging trouble in a sweet, tempting [motherfudging] devil of a package." - Monica I was struck silent for the depth and beauty I found in these three books in the "Song of Submission" series. You may ask yourself how could any erotic romance centering itself around the discovery, delights, trials, personal recriminations, societal judgement and reactions from friends and family of a bdsm relationship have depth of thought, artistic vision and literary merit? Well that's just exactly what is found in these beautiful writings of CD Reiss. What's more you can enjoy these books purely because they are well written, exciting, jaw droppingly, panty meltingly HAWT!!! The romantic tension and suspense will keep any lover of erotic romance warm with engines purring, even if, bdsm is far from your normal. You cannot help but appreciate its art responsibly practiced by Jonathan and Monica...the "play", exchange of power, is some "heady" uber sexy reading. Beyond the "feels" you experience, is the exquisite enfolding of themes, references to art and literature and the artistry of the language used by the author. Music is heard in the words, phrasing and pacing. References and allusions are made to musical works and instruments throughout the prose. The works themselves are like "tone poems" or a 21st century version of variations on a musical theme. In "Control", Jonathan shows himself to be a master of control. He is Monica's " King" in control of everything and most importantly, in control of himself. He uses this iron- willed control to get what he wants. Monica is feeling more and more out of control. She sees that her newly-found kink is bleeding into her career. She feels a taint and judgement from many corners of her life. She is afraid of losing control of her driving desire for a successful music career as she indulges in her high-wire act of a sex life. She is impossibly attracted to Jonathan...no it's more than that, she is in love with him body, emotions, mind and soul. She just can not reconcile her new "kinkier" identity, the need to deny it publicly and the one driving force sacred to her throughout her life so far, music. "Burn" reads like a dance that leaves you breathless. "This, I want. I've never wanted anything so badly. I feel your hands on your phone when you read my texts. I go to the Stock after your shifts just to stand where you've stood. I fall asleep on the pillow you used when you were in my bed. I need to share whatever piece of the world you're in. Tell me you don't feel the same." - Jonathan God bless you if ever you heard those moving words of love, heat and attraction from your man or lover. Truly swoon-worthy. Throughout most of this book, the words placed in the mouth of Jonathan read like a song of want, need and, yes love. She is the "sea" to his "sky". Throughout these; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sing / Coda / Dominance: The Submission Series Bundle Three (The Submission Series #7-9); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "He was my sky. Through blood and breath, sin and sorrow, I was his sea, and wherever the horizon was and the world ended, we were there, together."- Monica Throughout the entire "Songs of Submission Series", I have been utterly captivated by the beauty of the language and the crafting of the intertextuality between the novellas and books in this series, Monica's poetry/songs, and other culturally significant works of literature. The phrasing in the prose was lyrical and musical. The writing itself is expansive and cinematic. Any lover of most subgenres of romantic fiction would enjoy the complex characters and their evolution through an intricate, elastic storyline which is most appropriately described as an epic love story. "I was hers, and she was mine, and we only came close to the expression of the depth of it when I broke her patience, her resolve, her expectations, soothed her heart, and broke her again." - Jonathan For those of us who adore hot, filthy-dirty erotic sex with the seemingly forbidden dark element of bdsm, these books do not disappoint. The hero, Jonathan, is "six ways to Sunday" hot, beautiful, intense and Dominant male. The heroine, Monica, is beautiful, talented, an intrepid and passionate lover. Their erotic love scenes will hold you rapt with the fire and intensity of love's true passion. The dynamics of Jonathan and Monica's bdsm relationship are like a sculptor's artistic clay. This author creates a work of art and beauty with the intricacies of their love play and their love story like a sculptor molds sculpture. The visual art between two of the books illustrated the straight line of horizon between "her sea under his sky". This is very thought provoking. The "straight line that is the horizon dividing sea and sky is but an illusion"; of course, our earth is round, so in actuality it is a curved circular separation between sea and sky, not a straight line. I have pondered upon this imagery for a few days and it occurred to me that sea and sky never meet at the horizon. They interact with each other wherever the two exist. The sea gives up its moisture to the sky and the sky pours itself into the sea during the violence of a storm. Think Monica, the sea, evaporating into Jonathan, the sky, and Jonathan emptying himself back into the sea in the violence of a storm. Hmm... During another unrelated discussion, I also discovered that thinking in a narrow straight line cannot fully involve the circular nature of our world, our life, the forces that shaped our beliefs, our very destiny. Straight line judgements and thinking are too simplistic and lack substance. The result of straight line thinking is that you base conclusions on something that is purely illusion. My last thought was what lies beyond the earthbound horizon we see in our lives, may be wonders, glories and joys beyond the illusion that is mortal life. I suspect that scholars of 21st American literature may overlook the true significance of this literature either dismissing it as; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: King of Code (King of Code, #1); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "An inconsequential speck on a tiny boat surrounded by continuous horizon, humbled in the sea of her generosity." There is no question that this is a super sexy, downright delicious love story and romance for the ages. After all, we are reading a new release from C.D. Reiss. The romantic tension is spine tingling and the eroticism will make you lose your mind. So, if entertainment is all you are after, this book will rate up there with the best you have read. But...There. Is. More. So much more for the reader to fill their mind, heart and soul up with the food only an artist can serve up to them. This book is much like a multifaceted gemstone that bends and reflects back the light. We learn of Taylor's journey from the criminal world of the Black Hat hacker on the dark web to the young "savant" on the "cusp" of being a titan of industry, a King. In the very beginning of the book, Taylor is almost a "cliche' of a cliche". He is a misogynist who protects "his guys" from the IQ degradation caused by working with woman. He only hires one for his company and she is for mundane tasks and convenience when he feels like having a "good one" in the closet. His attitudes were fostered by his upbringing in numerous ways and reinforced by the cultural denial about the possible heights of the female brain IQ. In meeting the brilliant, beautiful and blonde Harper, much of the hubris Taylor exhibits because of his brilliance and that he thinks he has achieved his success solely as a result of said brilliance is dissipated in the gaze of Harper's multicolored eyes and grasp of her bandaged hands. Yet, dear reader, this story is even more than this. Beyond Taylor's "rusting" misogyny is his fear that without the limits he feels he can impose in computer code, life and his belief of what position and place in history he holds as an innovator that changed the face of human society, even human civilization... he is insignificant. In his deep understanding of the nature of things, he feels his insignificance and his true irrelevance in the face of the infinite. Even King David, the ancient biblical psalmist knew a thing or two about infinity (Psalm 139). This ancient King had a anchor Taylor had yet to find. Harper shares with her sister a generational guilt perpetuated by the greed of her parents in their using up of the people and the natural resources of their small town. Harper feels a desperate kind of loneliness. Since childhood she has been separate and apart from her contemporaries, her parents, and the men in her town. Her contemporaries and her school teachers made the assumption she was intellectual challenged because she was too bright to be understood. Her parents called her away from MIT to take care of her ailing father. The men in her town will not touch her. They view her as a rare treasure to be guarded. The absolute worst; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rule (Corruption, #3); Author: C.D. Reiss; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: "But first, I would rule." - Theresa If you desire an intriguing revelatory journey deep into human nature while being so entertained you are about to explode with emotions, then this series and especially this final book in the series will deliver on all accounts! My personal reaction to all of it in the end was pure deeply felt joy, you see...because at its core this is a story about "love" and its power and potential to rule over all. It is a tour de force work by CD Reiss. The writing is explosive and expansive. There are subtleties laced in the narrative of the action that reveal to your spirit themes such as justice, the absence of fear in love...the joy in erotic love punctuating and affirming soul-deep love. "But she belonged to me. Her eyes, fluttering in sleep, were mine because they saw what I saw. And still, that didn't begin to define it. It wasn't something I felt. It wasn't lodged in my heart. This possession wasn't the stuff of operas and art. It was made of bone marrow and earth. Roots and reality. I could almost touch it, but still, I couldn't find the words in any language to describe it." - Antonio In this last book we watch how Theresa discovers who she is through her love of Antonio. This journey is fraught with what I describe as "heart hiccups". Several times while reading, I lost my breath for the danger of the turn in the action...And then my breath was taken by the heat of the eroticism. If there was ever an author that gave meaning to the violence in her writing and even the...unabashed erotic sexuality that makes you feel almost guilty for reading it, Ms. Reiss is that writer. She is not flippant with her art. She grabs your attention to really say something to you as the reader. What I heard is this..."fear not" if you truly love and have love as your guide and... "maybe salvation would come in the form of love."; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Stick; Author: Stephanie Brother; Genres: romance; Review: Talk about "Sticky" situations!!! Well, dear readers if you like it dirty, dirty non-stop getting your sexy on, then you'll absolutely enjoy this offering from Ms. Brother. It is the familiar edgy, just a hint of taboo, step-sibling by marriage and they cannot take their hands off each other trope. These two lovers, Stick the delicious hot and genetically gifted in so many ways alpha male and Scheherazade (Scherri), the sexy sweet girl/woman who gives herself so wantonly and beautifully to her love have been connected since childhood. Perhaps to overcompensate for her own failing in her personal code of moral standards, Scherri's mother marries Stick's father and insists that the whole family be insta-siblings...creating an unnecessary and unwarranted shame between Scherri and Stick. The writing is quite something. The best part and the best erotic writing happens when the current "sticky" situation gets extra sticky with the addition of Jacket, a comrade in arms from the war over there comes along. Stick and Jacket become the fantasy come alive for Scarlett in all the ways a woman would desire. I will leave it all there...ready for you to discover the ending of this tale of the "Stick" and all of the glorious stickiness.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Dirty Filthy Rich Men (Dirty Duet, #1); Author: Laurelin Paige; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "A Dangerous Devil, that's what he was. A Dangerous Dark Warrior Devil" - Sabrina "I cocked my head, wondering if I could see him the same way he saw me, but all I saw was a fiercely attractive man with the devil's smile and dangerous sex appeal. I'd let a dangerous devil in my bed. A dangerous devil who'd once been my savior. Could Donovan be any more of an enigma?" - Sabrina This dark, desperate, achingly frustrating romantic tale of desperate desires will hold you utterly spellbound!!! It is a masterful and quite beautiful story of dark intimacies and psychological intrigues shared between the two principle characters Sabrina and Donovan. Talk about HAWT!!!! Donovan is your worse nightmare when it comes to establishing a love relationship, yet he is a dark poison that is written to be heart-stoppingly beautiful in his all-consuming, domineering and controlling desires. He torments us with hie erotic intensity through the character of Sabrina. He is one beautiful (insert favorite expletive)! Sabrina is seeking her place at the table of "filthy rich men". She invests much of herself in this pursuit. At the same time, she sees her effort in counting herself amongst these few privileged by wealth and gender, practically evaporate in the face of the man who holds her captive in his gaze...in his presence...in his embrace. There are some twisted plot surprises that may challenge any conjecture you may form before the end of the book. This story is to my mind a "tour de force" for this author. Her genius is plain on every page of the book. Where it leaves you at the end is in the state of perplexing arousal, curiosity and helplessness as we wait for the continuation of this dark and I say again, beautiful tale. Brava! Ms. Paige Brava! If you love these type of reads and these irresistible, so bad for you in a good way, devil heros, you cannot, cannot pass this one up!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Filthy in a Suit; Author: Luke Steel; Genres: romance; Review: There is a whole lot going on in our divorce lawyer's suit, and yes some of it is deliciously filthy!!! First I simply need to say that this romantic erotica is decidedly different than what a female author writes when offering a male point of view of an erotic encounter; unless they have a frank male contributor to gather research and information. I sense the maleness of the writing and it is quite the singular experience. It is seductive and intoxicating. As a female reader I especially enjoy the erotic encounters because the male is describing his bodily reactions, his ardor for the woman in his arms as he ministers to her body out of sheer desire with his tongue, fingers and body. So, so very sexy and hot! I'm almost convinced that this author is who he claims himself to be. I have read a total of three supposed male authors writing in this genre. One is a little silly. One I believe is a fake. But Mr. Steel writes like an alpha male or has mastered writing like an alpha male. There is very little description written in this book of the physical attributes of our male hero, Wes save for one essential detail in any woman's fantasy. Our heroine, Kara is happily surprised when she disrobes the lower half of our hero for the first time. I can honestly say I am somewhat addicted to this writer's work. The storyline is interesting with a few pop up surprises. The writing is quite good. The descriptions of Kara are so pointedly beautiful. Then of course there is the erotica. If you enjoy all the different subtleties of erotic description, owning and reading work by this author will enlarge your appreciation for the beauty of the erotic encounter. For it seems even in this man's world, love is the secret ingredient for ultimate unabashed hotness.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Dirty Filthy Rich Love (Dirty Duet, #2); Author: Laurelin Paige; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "Gentle swain at thy request I am here" - "Sabrina Fair" - John Miton There is beauty, mastery, complex feelings and ideas explored in this the second book of the "Dirty Duet". More than a love story, and it is indeed a love story; this is presentment of the most beautiful emotionally anchored construction of the dark fairy-tale prince. Even with his failings, shortcomings, personality flaws and mistakes, he makes the absolutely most desirable dark prince of any emotionally flawed and insecure woman's dreams. The brilliance of Ms. Page's insight and construct of these two characters, Sabrina and Donovan will live in my heart a lifetime. This is not the usual fare we are served up in romance of any shade. When you read this you are blissfully living in your mind while feeling the ebb and tide of emotions wash over you. Of course, the sex is pitch perfect. hot and delicious and once again scenes that will last a lifetime all painted with mere words by a master in your mind's eye. When we last knew Donovan in previous writings, he presented as a frustrating enigma, perhaps without feelings, driven by base desires and inexplicably attracted to Sabrina. He introduced Sabrina to dark love play and she knew that this was her true north. Despite her desire to stand on her own two feet and make her way into the world, there was something so compelling about a Dominant and controlling man...some inexplicable pull toward this dark demon of a man, Donovan. Some readers rushed to judgement as to the authenticity of her character e.g. Does she really wish to be admired for her competency at her job? or Is she exhibiting the traits of a stereotypical weak female not standing up for herself? In this book, "Dirty Filthy Rich Love" the focus is precisely on the love between Sabrina and Donovan where previous the focus was on the "boys" in the prequel, and then the "men" in the first book. Now it is about the love. Donovan returns from whence he first fled from Sabrina and calls her his girlfriend and admits he loves her at the very beginning. You may think, dear reader, that the game is up but in that thinking you underestimate our Sabrina. She wants answers. She wants to know why? She wants a real love. She wants more than the earth-shaking, soul-purifying love making of Donovan. She wants to know him and everything about him. This book becomes a delicate dance exploring reasons, ideas, falsehoods, truths, assumptions with some plot movement that enhances the tensions that lead to the final puzzle piece. When the reader is finally shown this puzzle piece it is so beautiful in its simplicity, its hunger, its need and the mistakes made, that the reader is reminded as Sabrina expressed: "'...WeaEUR(tm)ve both lived long enough to know that sometimes the good is anchored to the bad, and if we changed a single detail, who knows if we'd be here now? I want to be here. Now.'" - Sabrina I have; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Falling High (Experienced Men, #3); Author: Savannah May; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Look up n the sky! It's a bird!?! It's a plane!?! No it is hot as you please, TWINS!!! These twins are gorgeous male, sex on a stick high flying parachute stunt jumpers Hunter and Rhino. Hunter who is very much attracted to Kendall who is sassy, beautiful and full of natural attracting sex appeal. Hunter secretly arranges a weekend where Kendall will learn and ultimately jump out of an airplane by herself. His twin brother, Rhino does not know of his brother's secret planning in the background so that Kendall had to join them for work. Rhino also finds Kendall quite a delectable treat. There is some back and forth attraction with Kendall and each of the twins. Really fun to read about these situations. When Rhino walks in on Hunter and Kendall "in flagrante delicto". The natural thing for these brothers to do is to share. How lucky is Kendall? The writing is deliciously naughty and the writer creates a safe world where this trio could love and thrive. The erotica is sexy and not in any way, off-putting. Kendall has found a home in the arms of her loves and their high-flying ways. Come read and imagine your own joy if there were two to sexually serve your innermost unspoken desire whether it is for sexual recreation or life affirming, soul stirring, mind melding forever love. This author shows the reader that very possibility with the gorgeous twin men does exist if love is at the center of their life's compass.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Two Wrongs (Trouble by Numbers #2); Author: Donna Alam; Genres: graphic, comics, romance; Review: "I loved the very bones of him" - Ivy There is so much that is lovely and charming about this book...the locale in Scotland...the charming but randy grandmothers...the lilt of the Scottish brogue the author gives her characters. While some may find entertainment and edge of your seat tension in the sheer incomprehensible stubbornness and to coin a Scottish term, utter "daftness" of the two principle characters, I was frustrated. Now, I fully admit this one is on me. For someone who claimed to love her guy down to his bones, her secret husband, Dylan, Ivy ran away rather quickly. He also had to be supremely emotionally daft to not even consider for one minute that his wife may feel a trifle insecure as his star was rising. We as readers all know that Dylan really did love Ivy. A man that much in love does not indiscriminately sleep with half of Los Angeles no matter how mad he is at his love. It just not how love works even in some of the darkest, dirtiest romances I have read. The story is titled two wrongs but unless you attribute the two wrongs to two wrong characters, I would have to say these two principle characters committed twenty wrongs upon each other...serious crimes against love, not just misunderstanding type messes, but actual vicious lying, avoiding, uncalled for and irrational stubbornness which is actually, pure selfishness. Again, this is all on me. I am just crazy about "love" and erotica. I have read dark twisted tales but the thing that frightened me about this book was the charming, comedic peppered with some erotic spice almost "romcom" feel with such either two dimwitted principle characters or these two characters were written to act unnaturally. One more time for those who do not see any helpfulness in my review. I give this author 5 stars because I honestly feel this is my personal issue and perhaps book is just the thing for you. Maybe, there is someone like me who feels the same about my theory and concept of "love" in all of it's manifestations in erotic romantic literature. They may feel the same discomfort. I have named it and assured this reader they are not alone.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Tutor:; Author: K.D. Grace; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "It has been said that art is a tryst, for in the joy of it maker and beholder meet."~Kojiro Tomita And so it is in the beautiful sculptue of the artist, Alexander Valentine (Lex) and Kelly, the hands off "sex tutor" that a joyful sexual "trysting" is found. It is the beginning of healing for Lex, the world-renowned sculptor, a severe traumatic haphephobic. (He has a morbid fear of being touched, yet he is tortured by a insatiable libido.); and, Kelly who is an author and gifted sex tutor. She helps her clients navigate the mysteries of their bodies and the bodies of their partners, so that all the joy and pleasure of sex can be theirs. The two are brought together and what begins as a "tutor"/client relationship rapidly develops into a passionate sexy romantic love story. Their sexual intimacy develops without touching through the creating of art by Lex and his erotic sculpture garden. ("art is a tryst") The back story, supporting characters, and their nemesis the gossipy talkshow host who creates mischief and problematic situations for our lovers to overcome. The writing is straightforward and sweet. The erotica is sensual and also very sweet. In a way, the author coddles her protagonist because of his affliction. "Props" are due to this author for writing one of the sexist hot scenes in literature involving canned pear halves and a Tic Tac. If sweet romance with a good dash of spice is what you're craving, then this gem of a story will satisfy you nicely.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Saint: A Dark Mafia Romance; Author: Aubrey Irons; Genres: romance; Review: "Burning Down the House" - Talking Heads Another great signature offering from Aubrey Irons. This story is incendiary hot!!! Seriously smoking hot. Our female protagonist, Sierra is having a "quarter-life" crisis which turns into a full blown evening of revenge on her pencil-d**ed boyfriend when she catches him with some groupie engaged in oral on him. As insults demeaning Sierra are bandied about by her now ex boyfriend, his groupie, and his band mate, Max; Sierra smiles her secret smile because after imbibing on quite a bit if available vodka at her ex boyfriend's practice space, she set the whole place on fire. She is now an arsonist...a very drunk arsonist as that. She waits at the bar continuing to drink waiting for her lame ex's band to take the stage. It is then that she sees him. "And that's when I look up and see him just as he steps into the bar. I'd say he's gorgeous, but gorgeous doesn't quite cover it. Gorgeous makes him sound pretty or primped to perfection, and he's neither of those things. The man is dark and brooding, like a storm cloud rolling onto a shore. He's tall and broad-shouldered, and even though the lighting is terrible in this place, I can still see how dark his hair and his eyes are. The dim light of the place only accentuates the deep shadows across his face - the strong, chiseled jaw, the hollows of his cheeks, the way his brow furrows as he scans the room. He's across the bar, and when he suddenly looks up, the light catches something fierce and something piercing in his eyes. And mine are hooked on him. My eyes can't seem to look away as they drink in the storm clouds of his face, the lightning in his eyes. Those utterly perfect lips. The tattoo ink on his neck, peeking out of the collar of his tight black t-shirt and leather jacket."- Sierra In her alcohol fueled state she is compelled to move toward him and she just spontaneously kisses him. Surprise, surprise he kisses her back. Connor has no time for the intriguing Sierra because he is there as the fixer for the "Dark Saints" to meet warring gang factions. The meet goes sideways and they end up shooting at each other and inebriated Sierra walks in on all of it as it happens. Connor knows he should simply eliminate any witnesses. He hesitates and simply kidnaps Sierra instead. After navigating some interesting situations, all manner of challenges and overcoming the general mutual mistrust, they both discover and give life to their strong sexual attraction. It is a breathtaking electrical sexual heat and desire that is written so beautifully, so excitingly, so to make your mouth dry and you pant for how well Ms. Irons writes an erotic love scene. There are many twits and turns in the story. This one is ever so hard to put down. You just want to read until the final scene. I believe you will get a huge smile on your face; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: This is War, Baby (War & Peace, #1); Author: K. Webster; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars "With you," he says and waves his hand in the air, "this is all different. Powerful and meaningful. You're the one" -Gabe Am I ever glad that I found this author in this first book of a series. What an engaging and engrossing read! It has all the elements of a fictionalized, dark, twisted, erotic adventure into the underbelly of society known as the sexual slave market that make a dark romance a dirty delicious treat.It begins with a wallop of a scene that pushes the reader off-kilter and there you will stay through the book and beyond. Our very young heroine, Baylee is an angelic vision of sunshine and innocence. She is growing into her womanhood and like most women, she likes to catch the eye of her sexy hot neighbor. She has a few fantasies about him. But in reality, she is satisfied with her youthful sexual explorations with her high school boyfriend, Brandon. Gabe, Gabe, Gabe has darkness in his character and I believe some other agenda that we have not been privy to in his first book. Despite the taboo age issue and it's clear that he tries to debase Baylee but... he is often tender. He freely admits that he loves her. That she is "mine" After he trains her sexually, he sells her at a secret auction. She is bought by War. This man is a seriously damaged soul with alphabet diagnoses. He lives in a white sterile environment he does not wish to be touched nor can he touch. Baylee falls for his gentleness and companionship. She also desires him sexually and he her. They try and find a way to connect sexually often creating rejection felt by Baylee and some serious consequences at times. The parents all around seem selfish and self-serving. The writing itself is gorgeous and the characters are written so that the reader gets a reasonable idea as to their motivations, but not all has been disclosed. The erotism is beautiful. I feel guilty for the pleasure I feel reading about Gabe's skills. Here's hoping that I might find redemption in future revelations that Gabe is more than a flawed monster? How could I love this devil-lover? Careful, you may fall a little yourself. Looking forward to the next book so that I can come down from the cliff. Oh I am happy I am hanging here. Reading this book is so worth it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Taking Turns (Turning, #1); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: Just a Peek... "It was carnal, it was sensual, and it was erotic. That's it. That's all it was supposed to be. A trip into the dark. A peek into the forbidden. I just didn't expect to like them." - Marcella (Chella) Whew!!!What an excruciatingly erotic sexy twisted tale about the mystery behind the delights found on the darker side of human sexuality. Ms. Huss graces us with this complex story of three men who love to share a selected woman as their possession sexually in a carefully constructed game with rules governing each of their role in this quadrangle. The rules of "engagement", sexually and otherwise are based on the order of who is considered " Number One, Two or Three. The game, "Taking Turns" is deigned to fulfill various needs for the chosen woman...and of course their own sexual needs. They all live in a grand exclusive restaurant, bar, apartment and dungeon club called, "The Turning Point". They keep their chosen "Princess" in the top floor apartment....a princess held in the tower so to speak. The reader finds that the woman who played the game for three years has vanished. She left. Game over. Simple. She forgot not to take the heart of one of the men with her. This man realizes too late that he just might be in love with her too. She may just be the love of his life. Enter Chella, she makes her appearance by pretending to be the woman before her in the dark just very briefly. She is however, nothing like the one before. She is wealthy, educated and come from privilege, yet there is the desire for the dark delights and pleasures these men are offering. Underneath the heart-stopping eroticism and mouth watering sexiness of these men, out comes a meaningful story of love. Is it a glorious sparkling pure love with ideas of selfless giving, monogamy, healing while the beautiful Aurora Borealis sparkles overhead? I will let you discover what possibilities for true love exist after the dirty dark quadrangle that is the game these men play. I know this, you cannot put this book down. Not only is the eroticism spellbinding but the movement of the narrative keeps you reading and keeps you guessing...And while the ending is not a cliff hanger, it will keep you guessing and anxiously waiting for the next book in the series. Dark. Dirty. Hot. Touching. Love.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Turning Back (Turning, #2); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "...Now you know what you missed."- Quin If ever erotic sexual encounters described so artfully and beautifully meant something in literary works, then it is in this breath taking storytelling of Ms. Huss present in the deliciously dirty delve into the dark sometimes devious characters of "Turning Back". The author continues the complicated interactions and gamesmanship among her principal characters from "Taking Turns" with revelatory multiple points of view. We experience the eroticism and emotional import of these encounters through each character. The reader feels their desire, their ache, their release and even their ecstasy through her gifted artful erotic descriptions. More simply put...they are dirty, delicious and inspire a kink that may be deeply hidden in your own fantasies. Heaven forbid!!! If needed, remind yourself it is only fantasy! Each of the principles in the menage, Rochelle, Quin, and Bric "missed" something and "turned back". The big miss for the guys, was the birth of their daughter. They also missed each other. Love was missing from Quin's life...excitement and true desire from Bric's sexual exploits and Rochelle...I don't mean this in an unkind way, but leaving the way she did, Rochelle almost missed the whole boat. The genius in the storytelling is while giving us insight into each character, Ms Huss keeps us guessing as to how it all work out. Will Quin ever forgive her and love her again? Who is the father of the precious baby with whom ultra bad boy Bric absolutely bonds and adores? Will they live as they are? Is it still a game? These questions and your own ideas, hopes and theories for resolution swirl in your head while these characters show themselves to you in their thoughts and deeds. Resolution comes beautifully and know that whatever the outcome, there is light found in the dark. It is because of the dark, that there is light... light in new life, new understanding, new possibilities, renewed love. The decisions that are made by the principles in the menage are like a "change in the seasons" . "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven..." - Ecclesiastes 3 I found the history, love and erotic interactions between Quin and Bric in a menage with Rochelle...quiet, subtle and strangely beautiful. Whatever direction the menage takes, it feels to me as a step further into maturity, a season of change. I hope I have made it very plain how much I feel this book and the series as a whole will delight you, entertain you in its deeply dark dirty sexy way!!! Which is terrific in and of itself. But... if you wish to look further, the author gives us themes of light and love...growing into new seasons of our lives, reconciliation and forgiveness, the beauty of love shared and the joy in new life. A little food for your soul in a most unexpected place!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Animal (Animal, #1); Author: Marni Mann; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: I Just Wanted to SCREAM!!! "And then I finally heard it. The noise I'd been waiting for. Her scream. I wanted to live in that sound. Wrap myself in it. Keep myself buried and never be let out. I'd found it. Again. My own personal [effing] prison."- Beard So, yes I felt like screaming at the end of reading this book, which would have made the main protagonist, Beard, ecstatic. The book was dark as promised, an underground prison run by sadists for hire. At first it seems that "evil" people feel the sick torture (seriously twisted and "beyond the pale") then a pregnant woman desperate to save her child is tortured for no other crime than wanting to be free of an evil organization. The story was interesting in the beginning but as I kept reading the sex became more and more impersonal...And although fully described there was an air of detachment given to the characters describing the interactions. More passion was put into the effort by the author describing the sadistic torture. Nothing in the storyline ever fully explained the three men who built...they were so into the idea...they built a specialized torture prison underground. Since they were never fully developed psychologically, they all seemed like monsters...just as bad as their prisoners. Our "heroine" was a gullible lonely young woman with no one who truly cared about her so she was happily lead into her life of crime in a con game. She became "awake" and "aware" when she found someone to love truly and he love her. What is difficult for me to reconcile, and it really creates a huge plot hole for me, is that for all the "badassery" exhibited by her lover, he didn't investigate the cause of her fear? There is some terrific imagination exhibited by the author in creating the criminal world and organization. Her gift for creative gore is impressive. There is little to no true erotic romance or erotic romantic interactions described by the author. The human psychology is off and she even writes one character as doctor/shrink? There is a lot of graphic sex, but it does not communicate anything...its sex used as a drug. The opportunity for sex to be something more was lost between the hero and heroine. We never feel their passion, not really. It would have been a drop of salvation. Something good protected in this dark gore-splattered hell where money doesn't even buy any luxury. So what is the purpose for all the death, destruction, torture and fear? No one found their redemption, peace of mind or wholeness...no one really lives all that well from a materialistic standpoint. Truly, animals know better, live better and not one species tortures another intentionally for pure amusement. Animal is a misnomer. Perhaps the title should be "Deviant Humans".; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Daddy Dom; Author: Lucy Wild; Genres: romance; Review: Bad, Bad Girl!!! Bad Girl...that's what I felt like after reading this naughty tale of a bad girl and her "Daddy Dom". This story is just what you might imagine from the title. While the erotic scenes are eruhmmm...let's say "stimulating", the story is a little light on plot and character development. There just may be times when all you want is a spanking good time...and if that is your desire than this is your " cup of tea" so to speak. The writing is professional with a few errors that may have fell through on editing. This writer has skill when it comes to dialogue and erotic scene writing. I would encourage her to write more detailed, fleshed out stories that involve compelling thematic content. She has the skill and talent to do it!; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Trophy Wife (The Dumont Diaries #0.5-5); Author: Alessandra Torre; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: "A woman's desperation is most clearly spoken in a kiss."- Candce (Candy) This was a well written love story with plenty of very well described hot sex. Toward the end, the plot resolution reminded me of how Harlequin Romance writers in the past would resolve angsty...I let the wrong girl get away...true love tropes. Our heroine lived a life of desperation. She was lost in the professional job market after college, she could not wait around for her professional break by accepting a lower paying foot-in-the-door type job. She had an ill Father to take care of and credit card bills that needed to be paid. She decided to strip because she was desperate for money. She meets a rich man(every strippers dream) who wants her with conditions. He wanted her as a wife. It was a job, no emotions, no involvement, but Nathan just had to have sex with her. They were going to marry for purposes revealed further along in the narrative. This created another desperate situation for our girl, living lovelessly in the lap of luxury. A new level of desperation. She shows some craftiness to insure her future if she needs to leave and I love that she had the gumption to do this after all that was taken from her in her frustrating loveless situation. I found the erotica written quite well in describing sexual trysts. What makes it personal to the reader are the softly whispered words, the eyes speaking truth and of course the detailed description and hearing the character's internal dialogue. The deliberately cold perfunctory one-sided sex between Candy and Nathan caused this reader to hold her breath, hoping that Nathan would drop the facade. This coldness piled on more desperation for Candy. Overall I would rate the heat level at about 3.5. There was a brief love triangle, a little voyeurism/exhibitionism really nothing too taboo or scandalous. For all romance readers of any specialized genre this is a enjoyable escape in the fantasy that your true love will eventually come along and deliver you from that wretched feeling of desperation if your love is true and compelling in offering happiness and succor found in your pure loving heart.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Priest (Priest, #1); Author: Sierra Simone; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "The sins of the flesh are bad, but they are the least bad of all sins..." C.S. Lewis "The sins of the flesh are bad, but they are the least bad of all sins...that is a why a cold, self-righteous prig, who goes regularly to church, may be far nearer to hell than a prostitute."- Millie quoting C. S. Lewis I've lived a long time, and a man and a woman wanting each other is by far one of the least sinful things I've seen."- Millie Being somewhat (more accurately, intimately) familiar with the Catholic church, it teachings and its sacramental rituals, I was stunned by character of Father Tyler Bell. The immediate rush to judgement in my mind labeled the acts committed by Father Bell and Poppy as profane and a defilement of objects considered sacred to the Catholic celebration of the mass. Then I looked beyond my wall of judgement and thought it through. Father Bell and the beautiful pure of heart, Poppy were and are beloved by God. Father Tyler Bell was a dedicated celibate priest until he heard another call. God who always moves in our lives for good if we pray, we ask, we seek, we accept our trials. Being a priest, everyday he celebrates the mass. Please absorb in your mind and heart the word, "celebrate". It is an ancient, spiritual ritual celebrating God's love for his creation through remembering Christ's life, death and resurrection. It is a celebration of love. These priestly things, the altar with its relic, the church itself is built on one thing and one thing alone and that is "love" in many, many forms. So the acts of Father Tyler and his "lamb" on the altar of love with priestly vestments are made holy by the transformative power of love. Father Tyler made his love known to Poppy on a deeper level...showing her that her womanhood is sacred, beautiful and treasured as much he treasures the sacred rituals he performs everyday. Yes, there is biting churning powerful lust present in their sexual (love) encounters but even this is a gift from God. Fueling this lust is imagination, sexual attraction, creativity, and baser emotions which contribute to the sexiness, downright hotness of their encounters. Not to belabor my point but all these factors in their lovemaking are also gifts of love from the Creator God. Poppy is such a beautiful seeker. She is wicked smart but by no means wicked. She eschews her impressive degrees and her life as a proper monied American princess for showing her body, dancing a stripper at a very exclusive club. Yet, she wants more, her restlessness will not be stilled. She is looking into the Catholic faith because of all the active missionary opportunities. She is called and of course the good looking priest was icing on top of her unique "call" to service. "God is bigger than our sins. God wants you as you are-- stumbling, sinning, confused. All He asks of us is love-- love for Him, love for others, and love for ourselves.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Tragic (Rook and Ronin, #1); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: "Blackbird singing in the dead of night -Take these broken wings and learn to fly." - "Blackbird" lyric Paul McCartney Rook is an European blackbird and it is the name of our desperately abused heroine in "Tragic". She began life as daughter to a drug addicted mother and she was foisted upon a broken and abusive foster care system. She is running away from an abusive ex boyfriend who felt no restraint in his desire to do her serious harm up to including murdering her. She is fired from her job as a domestic falsely accused of stealing. With the last $10 she has in her pocket she decides to treat herself to a decadent coffee drink at Starbucks. Suddenly she is plinked on the head with a signed business card which permits the bearer a sitting with a photographer. The photographer, Antoine Chaput determines immediately that Rook is the perfect girl for his "Tragic" media project. Ronin, the devastatingly handsome top male model and female model manager, decides that Rook is someone he wants. Ronin has never met someone like Rook who shares the same intense electric blue eyes that he has. Their chemistry while unacknowledged at first is undeniable. Ronin recognizes that Rook has been terribly hurt by an abusive past. He recognizes this because he knows abuse first hand. It would seem Rook has the choice of being an erotic art photographer's model or belonging exclusively to Ronin. Desiring the opportunity to have something for herself on her own, she chooses the path of a model. Ronin is her male model partner and he is the one who draws out the sensual reality on Rook's face for the camera. Rook feels sexual pleasure at the hands of another for the first time, even though it is on a crowded photography set. The sensuous spell Ronin weaves for her while she is in his arms is hypnotizing. This innocence of the joy and pleasure of love makes her "tragic" air all the more exquisite...and all the more appealing to the dominating Ronin. Yet, the reader joins Rook in questioning some of the behavior of Ronin which leaves us both, perhaps, deliberately confused. The writing is beautiful and fluent. The dual point of view adds depth and drama to the story. The set up for the series is enticing. Naturally the sensuality, sexiness and frank eroticism is hot and ummm delicious. There are mysteries, complicated characters that peak the reader's curiosity and a delicious saga waiting to be found in this series and it all begins with Rook's "taking her broken wings and learning to fly."; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Manic (Rook and Ronin, #2); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: "Blackbird...All your life, You were only waiting for the moment to arise" - "Blackbird" - Paul McCartney This, the second book in this impossibly encompassing saga, presents the major players in Rook's, (our "Blackbird's") new life as she negotiates the control she wants over her life and how these players create a sense of "mania" for Rook. Ms. Huss puts the reader right there with Rook balancing on a high wire of changing perspectives and growing emotions. Ronin, the man who loves her truly, has to take a step back and watch as she deals with the reality of her decision to accept the Sturgis modeling contract, against which he, Ronin advised Rook not to take. We meet Ford, who presents as a brooding enigma who inexplicably wants to shore up Rook's person hood by early morning daily exercise with him and penetrating insightful discussion. The reader vacillates between guessing if he is totally smitten with her or he just wants to look after her well being. The owner of Shrike bikes, Spencer Shrike, has Rook posing nude, as he creates erotic masterpieces on her body for his advertising campaign. Rook is fully nude and on display for everyone...Ford, Spencer, camera crews ...Although when she is painted, she feels confident as if she were clothed. As she begins her erotic posing she is confused with her sexual feelings with other men who are posing with her. Ronin is often called away to deal with Antione's (the photographer's niece) in rehab trying to come clean from a well entrenched heroin addiction. Because of this situation, Rook often feels abandoned by Ronin. Finally, Ronin decides that Rook will not pose with anyone but him. Underneath this story line, all along, is a more sinister, spine tingling danger lurking from Rook's past. It is in dealing with this threat that we begin to become more fully acquainted the the natures of Spencer, Ford and Ronin which adds another layer of depth and mystery to the story. The climax of this plot line is written so well , be careful it just may stop your heart! This story is lush. The characters are so well fleshed out, the reader yearns to know more and more. The dialogue, even though cryptic at times illuminates parcels of truth. The eroticism is beautiful and frankly graphic, never staid, always fresh and sizzling hot. I also simply adore the fact that a simple touch is written to be so electric. The way this author describes this simple touch with such electrifying eroticism often tops other writers who write page after page of explicit sex. There is magic in her pen!!! So much so, the reader is compelled to read the next offering in this series. Our "Blackbird", Rook does arise out the mania, some, not all of her past issues resolved, happier for her new experiences and more in love with Ronin, her "without master" warrior who is unwavering in his love , waiting patiently for her, as she has her moment in the light. "Black bird fly, black bird; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Panic (Rook and Ronin, #3); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: "Because I'm not a runner anymore. I'm a chaser." - Rook, Last Line in "Manic" What an expansive, suspenseful, utterly romantic final book that finishes this trilogy!!! While chasing her dreams of a college education concentrating on film studies, and appearing in a reality TV show about Shrike's Bikes, Rook is trying to heal herself from the years she suffered abuse at the hands of ex boyfriends and foster homes. She is separated from the man she has grown to love, her Ronin. He is busy with his own project the "Gidget" models. He only took the job so that he would be occupied as Rook spread her wings to fly. He was confident that Spencer and Ford would keep her safe for him. He waits patiently for his Rook to want the same things as he does. Yet another level of intrigue is woven into the plot as Ronin is called in by the FBI for questioning and subsequently arrested. It is revealed to Rook just how cohesive a team Spencer, Ford and Ronin were in the past. They also revealed some of their crimes to her. She had seen them previously in action as they took on her ex-husband when he tried to come to take her back to a life of abuse. They explain each of their roles and inform Rook that she is now part of this team. There is artful dialogue among the various players that keep the reader second guessing about everything. Ford described Rook to Ronin as a runner. She does eventually run from all of them but not for the reasons any reader could anticipate. There is no foreshadowing of the events that take place after she runs away. It is a completely thrilling end to the trilogy. What's more, the reader is enticed, even compelled to now read on about the intriguing enigma that is Ford. As in the previous books, the writing is superb. The emotions conveyed are believable and moving. Both your mind and heart are engaged. Time slips by while you are suspended in this reality that Ms. Huss creates for the reader. The eroticism is satisfying, inventive and expresses the depth of the emotions our characters are written to feel. How lovely is it to "feel" the character's feelings? This is an experience immeasurable in its worth and beyond price.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Hundreds (Dollar, #3); Author: Pepper Winters; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: Obsessive, Compulsive, Disaster Holy Heaven and Hell on Earth!!! And that's one of the cleaner, least profane expletives I uttered as I finished reading this latest installment in Ms. Winter's "Dollar Series". This work is sheer genius! The beauty in the language is lyrical, nothing short of stunning. A large part of the genius in this book, is the sheer poetry in her descriptions...from the scenic vistas to the depths of soul deep pain and longing. Her storylines are like no other story I have read. This read is no exception. Nothing in this story is predictable, no markers for the reader to spot and anticipate the next turn in this angst-filled, deeply dark, psychological ...and lest I forget so sexually hot and electric, I almost fainted from the pleasure/pain described, book. This chapter begins with Elder, wrought with self-loathing for sexually violating Pimlico, who has finally found her voice. He rescued her, bound up her wounds (to put it mildly) and helped her heal from horrific sexual torture and abuse. We became acquainted with Elder Prest and know he is a beautiful man with raven's wing hair and almond eyes. He is brilliant, well educated (mostly self-driven), maestro with the cello, and wealthy. He is a man with fierce presence, regal bearing and a sexual centrifuge. He is an enigma. He is also a mystery. He seems to simultaneously want her close as a lover and in the same breath, need to push her far away. Pim is drawn to him not only in gratitude for his care but in desire for him as a man. She wants to heal sexually and she wants to heal with him as her lover, guide and teacher. Let's face it, she has fallen in love. And yes, I believe Elder has fallen in love with her, yet this is not so plain. "Sensuality had nothing on him. Elder was the dictionary definition of sensual from the way his muscles clenched in need, his nostrils flared in want, and his lust wound tightly in constraint. He kissed me hard and deep but with respect and affection, too. His taste and spicy flavour sent my head swimming as choppy as the ocean from our propellers. A drench of attraction and nerves activated every sense until I sparkled and crackled inside. Whatever previous kisses he'd bestowed were no longer relevant. Whatever touch or activity we'd partaken in didn't matter. This kiss was everything. It was truth. It was honesty. It was terrifying. He kissed me with nothing barred. He dropped a disguise, letting me taste what he'd never say. He was violence as well as tenderness. He was obsession as well as rationality."- Pim I chose this particular passage to highlight the beauty, lyricism and poetry in the description of their first meaningful kiss. So much is revealed in this kiss. When you read this book, I promise you that you will yearn for Elder and Pim to find their HEA. Despite their imperfections and miscommunications you will see how perfect they are for each other. It; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Last Hookup; Author: Luke Steel; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Sweet as a Beignet with lots of Powdered Sugar! Another delicious sexy treat from Luke Steel and I am not talking about the Beignet!!! I personally love these books narrated by a male POV who tells you how he feels, what he desires and the scrumptiously hot things he wants to do with his women when he has them in his arms. This novella takes place in the city where "le bon temps roule", the city of New Orleans. He captures that feeling you get when you first visit this city. There is no other city like it...A perfect place of mystery to find a mysterious lover for some hot and steamy sex. The author applies a deft touch to the erotic scenes. They are careful of the woman on the page, therefore careful to the woman reading and instructional for any man to read. Bottom line, the scenes are unflinching in delightful detail and sizzling in audacious hotness!!! But this character, Clark, knows a good thing when he sees it, feels it and tastes it. The woman he comes to physically desire becomes his heart's desire. How could this ever work? He lives in New York city and she there in New Orleans. They agreed on a "no questions asked" fling. The resolution to the story is surprisingly romantic coming from a man, but then again this guy is special. He seems to know what we "romance junkies" need. A man that knows what a woman needs is a rare and beautiful thing...one click this one and meet him in his "Last Hookup".; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Violent Delights (Violent, #1); Author: Linnea May; Genres: romance; Review: "A twisted princess." My dear reader, this is one very erotic, very hot twisted fairytale for those of us whose literary tastes embrace the darker romantic trope. It lives fully up to its title which to some may seem like an oxymoron. What? "Violence" mentioned in the same breath as "Delights"? The tried and true inviolable rule is always; safe, sane and consensual. Our author bends the situation wherein the dark hero, Joseph truly believes he has consent. He sets up an elaborate space for play and contracts a paid prostitute for some period of time he likes to let his inner beast out to play his Dominant/submissive sex scenario straight through the entire period of time. He likes to begin with an abduction off the street. He stalks his contracted prey and they wear identifiers so that he always has the right woman in his sights. Did I mention he is a gorgeous man with billions in the bank. Enter our sad, beautiful heroine, Liana, who broke up with her lousy boyfriend and she just left the funeral of the kindly professor who was her boss at the university. She was utterly alone without a boyfriend and soon to be without a job, so she thought to numb her sorrows at a dive bar in a low rent end of town. She spots a woman who comes into the bar wearing all red to include a red fur coat. On a whim or maybe it was the whisper of fate in her ear, she steals then hideous coat and leaves the bar. You probably have already guessed what happens next. The red coat was what our dark hero was hunting and he grabs Liana off the street and begins his game. It gets all sorts of crazy because Liana is a real kidnap victim but Joseph thinks she is just being a really good actress and disobeying him and his commands to increase his ardor. He gets peeved when he thinks she is carrying things too far and exacts cruel punishment at first. There is no rape involved because our dark hero waits until Liana begs for his ministrations. They have sexual chemistry from first meeting despite the crazy circumstances. Liana has secretly yearned for just such a sexual experience in which she now finds herself, but she does not know if Joseph is simply a madman that abducts strange women, toys with them and who knows what else. She is experiencing new found sexual excitement yet there is real terror mixed in with the hot dripping soul satisfying sex. What is this man's endgame? The author cleverly writes the revelations wrapped in a blossoming love story. Can such a shady start end in a traditional HEA? He is a dark mysterious prince with the hint of danger that carried her away from her dreary life to what end for our "twisted princess"? The violent delights of our princess reach into the reader's mind and heart and become mind bending erotic, hawtttt!!! entertainment. All yours for a click of the finger.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Yes, Please (Please, #1); Author: Willow Summers; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "Business. Blessed, unfeeling business."- Olivia Lovely well written sexy and erotically hot "almost" romance story. Allow me to explain the "almost". Ms. Summers sets the stage with first our heroine, Olivia who is hanging on financially by her fingernails. She is a recent graduate from a prestigious university and her friends all are monied and she is not. She has just experienced rejection from a boyfriend of this social circle. Apparently she did not measure up to his standards, even though those standards are shallow and blatantly pecuniary. She does not understand her worth or realize how beautiful and attractive she truly is. Our hero, Hunter Carlisle is a extraordinarily young CEO brilliant at business and of course too beautiful for words. He is an intense man whose whole life and focus is about business. He is engaged in name only for some business purpose that isn't made clear. He hires a new Personal Assistant every 2-3 years and he happens to be hiring now. It an unique, privileged and highly prized position wherein the woman who is hired is taught and mentored in business, introduced to valuable business connections, paid in the six figures with a credit card to buy appropriate clothing in the judgment of Mr. Carlisle and ultimately given a position befitting her talents in the corporation he owns. There is however a secret clause which spells out a Dominant but mutually satisfying sexual relationship without emotional feelings. Mr. Carlisle prefers to see to his sexual needs while at work with no fuss about it. Rule #1- no kissing. (Trust me you will be reading this and the whole time waiting, anticipating, practically dying for these two to kiss.) This is a wonderful set-up which highlights the feisty and principled nature of our heroine as she is the first one ever to turn this man down. And for the first time ever he pursues her to sign his "unique" employment contract. Olivia tentatively agrees to try it for a month. We watch as Hunter's business mask begins to slip. But each time it slips a little further, he shores up his resolve to maintain the structure for sexual satisfaction he set in place. Again however, he begins to seek out more than simple companionship and cold sexual relations. There is something honest and wholesome about the beauty of Olivia that seems to be wearing him down and burrowing into his heart. The author gives us a little backstory and introduces us to the rogue that Hunter's father shows himself to be. There is intrigue building but you have to read it yourself to see if the longed for "kiss" happens in this book or the next book for which the author seems to be setting the stage. I just may be curious enough to bite. She has me caring about these two. So if you love the "impossible" love and the heroine is not sure if she will settle for anything less than love, trope. Boy, oh boy... this hot erotic book and beyond is just the thing for; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Eccentric Intimacy: Love Like a Fairy Tale; Author: Adam Lynch; Genres: romance; Review: Young Adult "Christian Culture" Romance This book belongs in the Christian book genre. If this is your cup of tea, you should be pleased with this book.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Plus One; Author: Aleatha Romig; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "IaEUR(tm)ll call this fantastic ache the spoils of war." - Kimbra OK, what rock have I been hiding under that this is my first read from Aleatha Romig!!! She calls this her lighter fare. And light and delicious it is with that lovely tasty spice that we romance readers of any shade find irresistible! "I'll call this [pleasure] the fantastic spoils of reading about the war [of the hearts]" both Kimbra and Duncan fought as their fates crossed. Kimbra was the smart, feisty and for the most part very together business professional who did not appreciate her own feminine allure and beauty. Her sexiness would slip out in subtle ways like wearing red "eff-me" pumps with her navy and white buttoned up professional look. What man could resist the "front-stacked" curvy business professional women letting out a hint of "kitten". Further on in the read as she wrangled Duncan her boss through blackmail (or so she thinks) home for her cousin's wedding...we find out where this feistiness might have its origins. The genuine "laugh-out-loud" moments provided by Grandma is worth the price of admission. Duncan our green-eyed beautiful man, so handsome and magnetically attractive, women kneel before him and his gifted anatomy. It was just such a situation on company premises with an employee on company time that Kimbra caught him. She felt obligated to inform him that she knew of his misdeed and would keep quiet if...and then she thought better of her blackmail. Duncan seized the opportunity for a shot at this woman who seemed immune to his particular brand of charm and asked her to continue with her nefarious scheme to "blackmail" him to be her "Plus One". The heat that came off my kindle as I read the erotic scenes between these two had me shopping on Amazon for new eyebrow products, because my eyebrows were singed off and other items simply melted off! gY~+ If this the lighter side of Ms. Romig, well then, I need to get busy with her other books. Her writing style is simply readable with excellent pacing and she captures beautiful pictures with her words. The main characters were relatable but true to the lighter, comedic quality of the story they were not very complicated ... although complicated enough to add dramatic tension to the story.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Pierce Me; Author: Simone Sowood; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, romance; Review: "It's the closest to paradise I've ever been." - Gabe Paradise indeed!!! Mmmmm what an inviting, arousing...and just freakin' hot trope for a sexy, panty combusting romantic story. I would venture to say anyone of us connoisseurs of erotic romance has entertained the idea or even ventured forth to acquire a genital piercing. So we find our heroine who has decided that at 27 it was high time she experienced the big "O" and if a genital piercing is what it takes then she swallows her fear, anxieties and sense of modesty to visit a tattoo parlor and get it done. After all, the woman on the other line seemed to understand her predicament and it will be a female doing the deed. She knows that she is missing something because she never felt anything close to what is described in the literature she reads even with her BOB by herself. Enter our gorgeous tatted up, nipple pierced, beautifully muscled tattoo artist who the minute he heard who was coming to his shop (that he owns), he decided to "fill two needs with one deed". He fired the female employee for reasons discovered further on in the story and because he could not resist seeing even piercing his childhood crush again. Better yet, knowing the reason for her piercing, he wanted a chance at the opportunity to give Eloise, her very first orgasm. Oh ladies...the gentle professional examination for the piercing Gabe administers to Eloise is breathtaking in is sensuality as Eloise discovers for the first time a man who knows how to touch her. Gabe confirms for himself that it is not really the piercing Eloise needs, it's him, his ardor, his passion and his knowledge of the female anatomy. Eloise who has always been a dutiful daughter living up to her parent's expectations, holds back her obvious attraction and physical need for Gabe because he doesn't seem the proper boyfriend material to present to her parents. There is an underlying story beyond the childhood crush which deals with weighty subjects and themes. And this fleshes the story out beautifully. The HEA is so much more meaningful and beautiful. The writing style of Ms. Sowood is readable and it flows from scene to scene nicely. She keeps us interested in her characters with their internal dialogue. The dual POV also holds our interest and in and of itself creates tension. The tension is resolved, dramatically, meaningfully and I daresay again, beautifully. "It's the closest to paradise I've ever been . I can tell from the way she skims her fingers over me that she feels the same way."- Gabe What follows next in the narrative is some Hot. HAWT, Hot writing!!! It takes us pretty close to paradise, as well. One click your way to this paradise where a man knows how to touch a woman and the love that blossoms is timeless and healing.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Carny; Author: Simone Sowood; Genres: romance; Review: Gravity and the 'Steel' Dragon I absolutely loved this story. It is the familiar trope of pulling away from the heavy hand of your parents. Their hand is heavy for many reasons, some out of care and some reasons are self-serving, their genesis from a small town mentality. This author transforms the mundane, even the cruder aspects of life into enchantment. A young woman's longing to break free becomes a love story that is transformative for both of the two main characters, Steel and Emily. Some of the magical transformation is in the fierce, hot, hawt, HOT, oh so sexy and surprisingly tender erotic love scenes between the two. Steel is the young man who ran away 10 years ago to join the carnival. Now he is the quintessential "Carny" with movie star looks and charm, tatted up to the badass scorpion on his neck. He takes his pick of eager prey among the swooning young women he finds in every town. He works hard and plays hard. However, when he meets Emily, she rocks his world of its axis. Steel's depth of character begins to unfold in his love for Emily. Emily chooses to follow her heart and hitches her star to the sexy "Carny" leaving her controlling often demeaning parents and small town pettiness behind. She grows up and learns more about herself and what is important in life. It is a "small town romance" but the ideas about love, courage, moving forward, coming home and the possibility of new life...and forgiveness are "big" weighty and universal themes... Such wonderful feelings and ideas presented in the grittiness of this love story. When you choose this story to read, you will appreciate the title of my review. "Gravity and the 'Steel' Dragon" is some delicious imagery that has lingered with me. Simply, unforgettable. One click for all the "feels" and ideas of a pure love found in the grit and vagrancies of life...oh, and then, well there this image that will never leave your mind.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sophie's Journey; Author: A.J. Milton; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Not Sure if it Was Truly "Sophie's Journey"? Certainly I will explain myself about the title, but first I need to get to the good stuff. This is a well-written book "describing" an older man/younger woman romance and love story. The story as it is told is entirely believable. The erotic scenes while not breathtaking are nice and for the entirety of the book, mostly vanilla. The erotica is nice...sort of everyday...nice. There are a lot of them but like watching a "porno" they tended to be repetitive, nice, but the same. As I am sure this author will learn and evolve, he or she (I am thinking it is really a "he" that wrote this from some "tells" in the story.) will discover that the serious reader of romance needs more dialogue before, during and after the sexual encounter, more heat, aggression and passion from the male, I do not care how old he is. Lovemaking is some all consuming business to the romance reader. We as readers need to be swept away in the heat, actions and even the force of this love. The woman needs this alpha male strength that literally takes the breath from her body and then returns it to her because he does not wish for her to die but to live in his passion and love. There is agony and angst in the act of handing oneself over truly body and soul. It is worthy of great poetry and of life changing art. Every interaction in this book was initiated by the "Little Madam" and she took control of every sexual encounter. Is this a fantasy of the author? If it is, then this entire book is really an exercise in "self- indulgence". Now, whether this is a good or bad thing, I do not know. Many literary works are thus. Many readers will find comfort in the softer and more gentle male. In which case then, at least give him a story. There was no arc to speak of in this story. It was written as a dual POV but it was more of a diary than action exploding before our eyes. More than one, (actually many chapters), were simply summed up like so "Then we went straight to bed and spent most of the evening making out , making love , and just talking." Awwwww! Don't cheat the reader like that. Write in the dialogue necessary that describes what your characters did, don't get lazy and just give me a summation about it. If the author edited themselves to sound politically correct or think this is what women would like to read then its artifice is not working. It is billed in the ad copy as a "steamy romance". To have steam, you need heat. The heat was missing. I never felt that delicious slow burn of attraction that puts a reader's heart in their throat. Some authors do this with mere descriptions of a first look or the scent of the person who is the subject of their ardor. The ending of; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Slow Burn: A Bodyguard Romance; Author: Roxie Noir; Genres: romance; Review: The Tyranny of "Keeping Sweet". The Absolute Joy of Sweet Release!!! Absolutely wonderful book filled with achingly hot desire, beautiful erotic love scenes and serious themes about religious fanaticism and those who bear the brunt of psychological and even physical harm living under the unnatural tenets of belief that have very little to do with the love of God...Also the Christ He sent to us who delivered but two commands and preached with "Blessings". Ruby was always a disappointment to her parents and the fact that she returned home after a justifiable divorce did not help matters in terms of her standing with her father, the "morality" senator of America. Her mother was also unsympathetic to her daughter's plight, so entrenched was her belief that a woman's role and place in the home and society at large is to be subservient to her husband and to "keep sweet" in the face of everything, no matter the emotional cost or damage to your self-esteem. The women were constantly reminded of Satan lurking around every corner and in any inappropriate display of immodesty. Their standards of dress were extreme in all the ways that completely erase any hint of womanhood, let alone beauty, sensuality or sexuality. So too was Satan, the root cause of any display of temper (justified or not), personality or independent thinking. Any of one of these displays was met with the admonishment to "keep sweet". This phrase, unfortunately is real and not a figment of Ms.Noir creative imagination, it is most closely associated with Polygamist sects living on the border of Utah and Arizona. Ruby was trying to "keep sweet" with a little help from "the bottle". Ms. Noir brings to light the harm and injustice to woman, gay people and even young men who learn to objectify women. The prime objectification is one-sided sex, basically using a woman as a thing (means for self-pleasure) or viewing pronography that objectifys women. Lessons in manhood do not include tenderness, loving your spouse and doing what it takes to show your love in all ways... emotionally, communication style, supporting her personal growth and tenderness in the act of making love. By means of storytelling, the point is made that individuals who are genetically prone to mental illness also suffer mightily under this strict religious oppression. Into this warped version of "Father Knows Best" comes our damaged hero Gabriel much like an angel who bears the same name. He is a Secret Service Agent with lingering PTSD issues "on leave" hired by the senator to be Ruby's bodyguard because of serious threats to her well being and safety. Naturally, we the reader fall in love with his male physical "gorgeousness" through the eyes of our heroine. Gabriel sees beyond the "sweet" facade Ruby paints on her face with a little help from her liquid courage. He recognizes her beauty and lively soul. There is a palpable current of electric attraction between them. In this attraction, Ms. Noir shows great skill with creating the tension of the forbidden "Slow Burn". She takes us, the; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Feeble Connections ( Love Connection, # 0.5); Author: Meghana Sarathy; Genres: romance; Review: Really "Feeble Connections" with Words You can see this author has the creative spark necessary to write a story. This was a very emotional and angsty type young adult romance. I will say that there were many word choice errors and typos that hinder the reader's enjoyment. I am guessing that American English is not this writer's first language. Basketball games are referred to as "matches". Words that look like the word you would expect used are used making the sentence nonsensical. Verb tense is confused and words are missing in the sentence. If you can try and decipher the language, underneath is a pretty good story. The ending was abrupt and hard to take. I was going to rate it with 3 stars. I have a soft heart so I upped it a star. This writer needs to master American English and enlist the services of a good editor. I am sure she has just started and I have every confidence she will improve.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Fiancée for Hire; Author: Melinda Minx; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: To Avoid Making a Deal with the Devil, a Deal is Made with a She-Devil Instead. This has all the readerelements of a great storyline, sexy hotness of an Alpha male in pursuit and romantic suspense that you come to expect from a story written by Melinda Minx. I love her characters both good and bad and the unique situations you find them in her stories. Liam and Amber do not meet in classic wham! love at first sight style. They have a moment in a beautiful setting which involves some subterfuge on the part of Liam. Apparently this moment lingers for both of them because they ask about each other after the fact. Out of necessity, Liam turns to Amber and asks her to be his fiance in name only as a business proposition. Naturally, more than business feelings develop but are they enough to sustain a forever kind of love? Is Liam's desire not to marry so strongly entrenched in his psyche that he actually pays someone just to be his fiance, so he does not need to marry? Liam is the handsome sex on a stick billionaire who to the delight of his woman, is genetically gifted. Amber is the unpretentious and unspoiled natural unique beauty whose sweet personality has earned her a stalker. Add the stalker with the she-devil with which Liam made a deal 10 years go and you have some page-turning, psycho-biatch drama that leaves the reader in suspense until fairly close to the end. Oh..I would be remiss if I forgot to tell you how deliciously hot the sex is between Amber and Liam. MmmHmm. This is guaranteed all-around satisfying entertainment and there is a whole other story that's included when you simply one click your way to all of it.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Closer; Author: Aria Hawthorne; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "When you'll find your servant is your master"- Sting "Devil and the deep blue sea behind me Vanish in the air you'll never find me I will turn your face to alabaster When you'll find your servant is your master"- " Wrapped around Your Finger" - Sting Reading this book is an absolute refreshing delight and revelation not to mention a toe curling, spine tingling erotic romantic masterpiece!!! I hope to give my ultimate best in this review for you, the potential reader of this book. This author is a brand new discovery for me by way of a review copy furnished to me. Life is so magical sometimes when something as enthralling as this book is placed before you. Oh...where to begin. (I loved it so much, I bought my on copy.) Inez, our heroine, is a beautiful, intelligent young woman of substance and character. She is a struggling single new mother taking care of an adorable baby girl and her very lovable grandmother who is blind but feisty and nurturing to both of them. While searching for a job to support the three of them, Inez meets an enigmatic beautiful famous Dutch architect/billionaire who needs a particular type of assistance in projecting a strong and invulnerable appearance during a weeklong round of social engagements. You see, our architect, Sven is blind in one eye which is covered with an eye patch and inexplicably going blind in the other eye. His legacy would be jeopardized should his failing eyesight become public knowledge. For her efforts, Inez would be compensated five thousand dollars a night. Sven is much like the wounded lion in Aesop's fable wearing his eye patch over his injured eye like the splinter the lion had in its paw, disagreeable, dismissive, roaring commands...Only Sven's injury/splinter is more than physical. He is a gorgeous blond Dutchman with obvious physical beauty and strength. He is a genius architect with class and sophistication. Their first meeting is everything for which the heart of a romance lover yearns. Inez stands on her inner strength, intelligence, wit and sense of self worth butting up against the arrogance, almost deprecating attitude of this genius billionaire whom she senses is so desperately alone and in need of her in the week ahead. Into this setup, Ms. Hawthorne weaves a dramatic, breathtakingly, achingly romantic tale that captures us, the reader. It seems almost trite for me to expound on this author's skill of description. But, rarely are we as readers so enamoured by the power of the description of an author's words are we with this author's words that insinuate themselves in our mind's eye and forge an intimacy with us. Our imagination is captured with the view of the gleaming "Spire" against the night sky from on the lake or the "angels" view of Inez's beloved city, Chicago. We feel our own heart beat with desire from the blisteringly hot, breath stealing frank erotic scenes sizzling from the words on the page. Into this captivating narrative our author also weaves some beautiful references to art which; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Woodsman's Baby; Author: Eddie Cleveland; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: He is a "Woodsman" because he can really handle his "wood"! So this story is not about a lumberjack. Nor is it about a "Grizzly Adams sort of character. I guess you would consider our hero a "Woodsman" because he lives in the woods? or is it because of what I said in the title? dY~EUR Connor, the man in question is a terrific new book boyfriend. He is sex on a stick...gifted genetically and physically in all the important lickable ways... and he knows what we,women like. He meets this mocha bronze beauty in a bar as he was celebrating his return home from a career in the military as an officer with the SEALS. The beautiful woman, Charlotte is holding back a secret from Connor. They share a night of delicious lust, but for Charlotte, what they shared is the culmination of longing and a love for Connor since she was that little girl, Lottie with gangly long legs and puffy hair following her brother Marcus and Connor everywhere. This reunion should be the remarkable beginning of a love and life together for Connor and Charlotte "but the course of true love never did run smooth." Shakespeare (A Midsummer Night's Dream) The storyline deals with our main characters working out past grievances real and imagined. They all must deal with the surprise of a new baby made by the love of Charlotte and Connor. Peppered throughout the story are the hot erotic love scenes between Charlotte and Connor. I so enjoy a male writing sexy scenes for a primarily female audience. A little testosterone in the mix gives it a different flavor. And Mr. Cleveland's writing is no exception. However, I did miss the build up, the delicious tension, the secret touches, the will she or won't she question lingering in the air before they actually have sex... a little foreplay please. I so loved the ladder scene, but other than that, the loveplay was a little one note with the overuse of the word "splash". Oh I just know I will be attacked with many "unhelpful" votes, but please notice how balanced my small critique is and yes I encourage readers to choose works by this author because the bottom line is that they are smokin' hot. He will only get better, I am certain. So, for some tasty testosterone in your sex salad one click your way to the delights of the "Woodsman" and his...need I say more? dY(tm)f; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cinderella of 6th Ave: & Captain Charming (Tales of 1001 Flights); Author: Alice May Ball; Genres: romance; Review: "Once upon a time..." This is a beautiful piece of fantasy fairy tale storytelling anchored in the reality of a newly single woman in modern day New York City. What strikes the reader as poignant, profound even, is the one beautiful truth of the classic Cinderella fairy tale that goes beyond the "one day my prince will come and rescue me from my woeful circumstances and we will live happily ever after" trope in the Cinderella fairy tale this author ingeniously captures. This overlooked "truth" is that when the prince comes to find Cinderella with the glass slipper, instead of seeing her attired glamorously as she was the night of the ball, the glass slipper fits on the foot of a lowly servant girl practically in rags with "cinders" on her face from her household duties and living in a lowly station in stepmother's home and on her largess. Cinderella's circumstance is inconsequential to the Prince. He loves her for her! She is beautiful beyond her station, beyond her normal attire. So, too is our heroine, Alexa,on a time clock living a temporarily charmed life while housesitting for her wealthy stepsister in her luxurious apartment, going out in her designer clothes and shoes. Alexa is naturally beautiful, charming and witty. Her designer attire gives her an air of confidence and she shines like a star, or "a beautiful silvery fawn" as she is later alluded to in love story created by her "Captain". Our "fly boy" Captain Jagger McCann is quite something else. He is quite the lover whose glorious anatomy and reputation for his sensual skills precede him as a rule. He is 100% Alpha and a loves to hunt for his conquests assured there is no one who can resist his charm and prowess. Of course the chemistry is potent when these two meet and the sex is sensational for both. Alexa keeping herself rooted in her reality makes a deal for a "one and done" encounter. Something beyond "one and done" happened to both of them and Jagger touched unwittingly by this magic connection finally decides to get Alexa's phone number before she whisks herself right out of his room and his life. However, our Captain is no prince charming at first. Their connection is tenuous and primarily physical at first. As they spend more time together, the Captain begins to realize that his desires are changing and he truly enjoys Alexa as a person, someone with whom to simply spend some time. Alexa teasingly asks him to tell her a love story. His first story was a bit of a "fail". But then as he is flying private jets around the world and talking to Alexa on the phone, his stories begin to take on more and more themes of true love and these stories allude to what is happening between Alexa and him. Ms. Alice May Ball creates these intriguing "mise en abymes" in the narrative of the Captain. I just loved this creativity. And just as the prince searches far and wide for his Cinderella, the; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Beach Happens: Hawaii Heat book 2; Author: Jamie K. Schmidt; Genres: romance; Review: "Don't let the consequences stop you." "Honesty is the best policy." - Zarafina, the tarot card reader Be prepared to be delighted by this story which immerses us into the surfer culture of Hawaii. It is an adventure and suspenseful sexy suspenseful love story with a plot that twists and turns, breaks your heart and puts it back together again, stronger for the healed damage. Our story begins with one of the most painful and devastating nightmares for any woman...Michaela's fiancee, Gerald, does not show for their wedding, jilting her publicly in front of family and friends. Privately she reads that he does not love her. Further on in the book we find out he was in bed with another woman. Michaels while shocked and dazed realizes that Gerald was not exactly the love of her life, still she plans on keeping the honeymoon plans for a Hawaiian vacation, if only just for herself. She faces a host of challenges to include lost luggage and cancelled reservations. She, being a clever and intelligent woman...Did I mention she was a lawyer?...finds a way to take care of herself with the help of caring and sympathetic resort staff. The fact that she meets the sexy, physically beautiful wealthy hotelier resort owner, Marcus also adds to her enjoyment of her Hawaiian surfer retreat. For a number of reasons, Michaela prefers to, even needs to tell Marcus half truths as their intense attraction begins to develop into deeper feelings. There are other circumstances conspiring around them which only serve to cause them both to draw erroneous conclusions. We, the reader are practically shouting at Michaela to tell Marcus the whole truth while we read. The reaction from Marcus when she does tell him the whole truth breaks our heart. It looks like they were star crossed lovers who loved and lived for a moment as surfers and dreamers, when their relationship falls apart and Michaela settles for another wedding day to marry Gerald. She resigned herself to a loveless match to fulfill a business aim of her father. Now if I tell you what happens next, I would spoil the fun of Michaela's wedding day. Does she follow the advice the tarot card reader gave her in Hawaii? The writing is respectable and the author is obviously familiar with the Hawaiian surfer lingo and culture. This adds a nice flavor to the novel. I have one small complaint. The description of all the surfing became a bit tedious to read. I believe a little less surfer content would make the book better. And the author could add more description for the non surfer, so that the action on the water could come alive in the minds of those who never even seen a surf board. The general point of this story or takeaway theme for the reader seems to be living authentically and with "truth" as a major quality found in your life's compass no matter the consequences. This point is made by a sexy, more like... super sexy hot, love story wrapped in a twisty-turny; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Say Yes to the Scot: A Highland Wedding Box Set; Author: Lecia Cornwall; Genres: history, biography, historical fiction, romance, fiction; Review: "Ye Gods" I "Canna" Say No to Any of These!!! This lovely magical collection has us as readers hearing a beautiful celtic flute in the background playing a plaintive melody as the words on the page evoke the smell of heather fields, wood smoke and the touch of tartan plaid wool against our cheek. Each story brought something special found in an historical romance set in Scotland. The heroes are brave and true. The lasses are smart, feisty and each beautiful in the eyes of her beloved. The passion is young, innocent, purposeful and steamy hot in the most beautiful and swoon- worthy manner. Any lover of romance, whatever the shade, will find these satisfying and refreshing as a dip (skinny dip) in a cool clear "loch". The reader will rediscover the joy of the classic hero, his beauty, his animal magnetism cloaked in civility...The delicious build of passion for both hero and heroine. In Lecia Cornwall's HOW A LASS WED A HIGHLANDER, the reader is delighted and enchanted by the fairy tale elements and the actual influence of the "Fairies" in the love match for the reluctant Laird Alexander and his direction-challenged love, Cait. In Anna Harrington's A MATCH MADE IN HEATHER, it is a sprig of heather carried by the stable boy, Garrick which reminds him of his lost love, Arabel that inspires him through the most difficult circumstances including war. He returns an English Lord believing he was betrayed by Arabel all those years ago. The sense of betrayal is mutual as is their renewed attraction. It is a story of new beginnings for both Garrick and Arabel surrounded by the fragrance of heather. In May McGoldrick's A MIDSUMMER WEDDING, we are presented with the hardships and joys of the simple life of yore. It is a delightful tale of attempted subterfuge with identities and miscommunications all told through some harrowing challenges that our lovers face. The Laird, Alexander and Elizabeth betrothed for years seem ill-suited for each other from the start but all misconceptions and apprehensions dissolve in this challenge of nature they faced together to stay alive. Lastly, but no less a delight, in Sabrina York's THE SCOT SAYS I DO, Duncan, a lowly stable boy and the daughter of the Laird, Catherine both shared a mutual attraction when they were younger. Duncan was most honorable when he refused to touch Catherine because she was too young at the time. Catherine's father, the Laird, had him sent away because how besotted his daughter was over this stable boy. This story involves other suitors vying for the hand of "Cat" and some lovely steamy love scenes between the bankrupt "wee Cat" and the now monied Duncan. One line stuck with me after the read and I will leave it up to the future reader to figure out its meaning in context with the story, " Always a lovely surprise for a lass." - Esmerelda This is a wonderful collection that will make you fall in love with Historical Romances set in Scotland and/ or rediscover the delight of; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: A Texas State of Mind (Port Serenity #1); Author: Ann DeFee; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: "Texas State of Fantasy" Allow me to begin my review with a clear statement that "Fantasy" especially in the romance genre is not a bad thing but rather an expectation. The whole book is on one hand a charming but rose tinted-tinted glasses look at all the hard issues faced by a single divorced mother holding down a demanding often "dirty job"; the influence of drugs and drug dealing on small town resort communities, former criminals attempting to atone for their crimes by committing more crime, a mentally ill and homeless person who really is not getting the help he needs. Now add one female law officer falling in love with a alpha male state police officer and fighting serious crime alongside of him with stake-outs and all told without uttering one swear word. On the other hand, it is just not reality. It is the reality of a writer's mind based on her "real world" experiences. She spun her reality into fantasy to please a certain audience and for saleability of this book for those audiences.Of course, many romance authors do this. The authors with genius weave a story for the reader that has an underlying theme, a morsel of truth. While the reader will find this writing is mostly proficient. The beginning of the book does catch one's interest. We find ourselves sort of muddling through large blocks of many story lines happening at once. A good edit would probably be beneficial. Also, people do say "hell", "damn" and "sh@t" especially law enforcement, not to mention even more colorful language especially during life and death situations. Lack of this realistic language is somewhat pandering to a select audience. Surely God will not put you in "H.E. Double Hockey Sticks" for uttering a few well placed obscenities. Then there are the love scenes which have such potential for heat. They are handled as if we were watching the characters with our eyes closed while they hide under the blankets. Again, surely God will not put you in hell (oops!) if you blatantly describe or even give us more description and some sexy even dirty hot words we love our men to whisper in our ears to seduce us. So that I am not misunderstood in any way, I realize this is the book for readers out there who like it all scrubbed clean from the characters to the language and to the love scenes. If this is how you like it, then this read will delight you. Other readers like it spicier, hotter, more realistic with hot seductive love scenes. This book may frustrate these readers. When we search for an overall theme or truth from the read, I try to squeeze out the one where the Hero is willing to take a desk job to marry his law enforcement officer love. But Christian has been contemplating this even before he met Lolly. He was lucky to find her when he was ready. So a reader such as myself needed to be satisfied with the proficient read, some good description of; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Torrid (Sordid, #2); Author: Nikki Sloane; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: "I was pulled into his embrace , and my body sang a beautiful melody of ache ." - Oksana This work is an absolute stunning and masterful work of all-consuming intertwined sexual and emotional intensity, the like... few... and I mean very few... authors can create with with such skill at word choice pacing and authentic characterization and interaction. The reader and lover of this art can immediately discern from the jump that this book is different ... delightfully, darkly, erotically and temptingly so. This edition contained the first work in the series, "Sordid" which is an incredible value. For me, it is my first time reading this author and I was rapt from the beginning...It is that lovely recognition of sheer genius and knowing that the time spent reading will melt away in pure pleasure. The worlds that Ms. Sloane creates are a combination of a dark criminal organized underworld and in "Sordid", the world of academia. In Torrid, Oksana's world of light comes from her ability to compose and play piano. The two brothers from each book are a study in contrasts. Luka from "Sordid" is serious, measured and controlled. His passion while beautiful in its art and exercised in control can burn unchecked and in one defining moment that was a loss of control, he unites his fate with a woman he has desired and wanted for years. He does not embrace the underworld life of crime in which his family is entrenched. Addison is literally "perfect" for him. He loves her "perfectionist tendencies and her lack of criminal taint. Oh... but some of her best writing is in the development of the charismatic and evil spell binder, Vasilie the younger Serbian Markovic brother. The heir apparent to the Markovic crime family. "Looking at him was the same as staring at the sun . He was scorching . Beautiful . Fascinating , but I couldn't do it for too long or I'd risk permanent damage ." - Oksana "He was violently beautiful." - Oksana "Should it have bothered me that he was the most attractive when he looked evil?" - Oksana The way he speaks to us through his thoughts, emotions and actions has the reader intensely fascinated and feeling guilty even from falling in love with his devilish and dirty ways. With Oksana the female protagonist, here again, Ms. Sloane creates a fascinating character with her own agenda from the rival Russian crime family. Much of the intrigue of the storyline comes from the driving agenda of this unwanted illegitimate daughter who has killed a man before her virginity was even taken. The oddly beautiful love story of Vasilie and Oksana adds layers of intensity and meaning to each character. I cannot heap enough praise on this author and her unique skill with the hawt, hot, hoooot, oh so hot, driving, pulsing, breathing off the page erotic scenes. The words, exclamations, the pacing and descriptions move the reader. It is a rare gift. Her characters live for the reader in their mind long after the reading is done.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Violent Hearts (Violent, #3); Author: Linnea May; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "His heart has been broken enough, and all I want to do is to glue it back together. I want to fix what others have destroyed."-Button, (Ann) As a fan of Linnea May, I am always delighted by her skill with crafting the darkly romantic story. Somewhere in each of them is always a beautiful beacon of pure white light. As lovers of this art, we readers often can get carried away with the eroticism, even the seemingly forbidden "violent play" that Ms. May skillfully presents to us in all of its facets, the psychologically bonding, physically pleasurable, and emotionally fulfilling. In our delight and excitement from the read, we may miss some of the deeper truths and elucidating themes in her story. I actually reread the book and found that I almost missed the heartbreakingly transformative story of the male protagonist, Jared. Ann, our female protagonist describes Jared as below: "He's undeniably gorgeous, hot as hell, a rugged character with a matching voice, wrapped in an impeccable exterior. I could stare at his face forever, watch every furrow as his expression changes from serious to amused, from annoyed to relaxed. And his voice. That [effing] sexy voice." The reader finds him in the Prologue bemoaning his bad luck at finding that perfect partner who will be a submissive play partner who remains emotionally detached and a pretend girlfriend who is able to negotiate the social intricacies and pitfalls of a politician's significant other. We learn that he has a past of some sort which involved his heart and a very public betrayal. Ann, who while doing research on an article involving a very private, discreet and specialized matchmaking agency, catches the eye of Jared. There meeting while brief and fraught with erroneous preconceived notions ultimately leads to Ann's hire as his submissive. Ann is perfect in this role...maybe a little too perfect. As a result, we watch Jared struggling with his own self-imposed rules. "I have to distance myself from her, even if it means getting out of bed, and detaching myself from an embrace that couldn't feel any more comfortable if I wanted it to. I could lie there forever, talking to her, watching her lively face while she speaks or ponders, feeling her body pressed against mine until the urges return, and my hardness orders us to connect as one again. Hell, I could even watch her sleep. I want to watch her sleep. I have to get out of here." -Jared "...I may be a fool for this, but she's managed to bewitch me." - Jared Ann is not left unchanged. She discovers that she enjoys the pain/pleasure exchange even to the extreme of breathe play. They are true match of "Violent Hearts". Vulnerability and the inviolate value/need for trust are shown to be a part of every D/s relationship. Each vulnerable to the other and each requiring an unshakeable trust from the other There is an added complication to the budding love story of Ann and Jared, when Ann just cannot seem to stop her journalistic writing;; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Atheists Who Kneel and Pray; Author: Tarryn Fisher; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: "I'd stared up at the sky and thought about how I didn't believe anymore--not in God or his creation. Definitely not in love." My dear reader, this is my first work I have read by Tarryn Fisher and I so enjoy the happy surprise of finding a skilled wordsmith who can create such a work of beauty as this. Simply reading the first few chapters and the reader is enchanted by the brilliant glimpses into the characters she is developing. The attuned reader begins to listen to this work, rather than just allow there eyes and mind to move over the page. Her characters spout platitudes about love regularly and with equally regularity and unabashed fervor smash the same platitudes against the ground. This book is about great love told through the development and exploration of the characters of David and Yara. Just recently I heard it from and I quote Al Pacino who said while presenting an award in film "Character is plot." The characters Ms. Fisher creates explore a raw, emotionally painful to many readers, dynamic of a damaged heart, Yara and the fact that she completely captivates the sexy singer with a beanie, David simply with who she is. Yara , whose name sounds like music, has long pale blonde hair and an English accent. David finally feels something when he sees her and meets her. It makes the reader remember that one special person that moves you on levels that only an artist can articulate. Yara is the "runaway" girl. She finds herself in love with this beautiful young man who writes songs and performs on stage. She and David are eventually married but a beautiful scheming interloper twists Yara up inside with jealousy so hard by this interloper's deliberate pursuit and befriending of David, Yara, bowing to the pressures of dealing with fans like this, runs away after only six weeks of marriage. She lacked the self confidence to deal with this friend/ fan and did not trust in her beloved's fidelity. She was compelled to forestall the pain of any possible rejection of her. For his part, David could not see the damage his friendship with this interloper was causing his relationship with Yara. David was rent apart when his young wife left him ot of the blue and he wrote songs about his deep pain that launched his group and himself into super stardom. Yara tries to settle herself for good in London rather than roaming the cities of America or Europe. All the while, David never files for divorce even though after a year, he does connect with the interloper who frightened Yara so much which of course is hurtful to Yara. The resolution of this relationship between Yara and David takes years and each plot event is significant of growth by one or the other. The reading holds the reader rapt through the travails of our main characters. The ending left me satisfied but also hungry for more of what this writer had to say through Yara and David. (IOU) I will leave; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Rub Me the Right Way; Author: Amy Brent; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Caution: Slippery When Wet This book idea was genius! The marketing was also very effective. I just had to put it on top of my TBR pile. It really sounded irresistible. I think it is because so many of us if not all of us have been mishandled during sex. I honestly thought this will be a hot erotic fantasy celebrating the beauty of the sexual female body. While there were some nice erotic scenes, certain idiosyncrasies of the author or what the author wrote about spoiled the hotness factor. This book needed more sex, more explicit erotic encounters not just talking about it. Case in point. When Devin and Cassandra got back together after the contrived misunderstanding, no celebratory sex? Really? I also believe a block of time describing sexual encounters was simply summarized instead of writing an erotic scene. Also, the author intimated that discharges from a healthy vagina have an unpleasant odor. A healthy vagina secretes a near odorless slick lubrication. It is not oily nor does it smell. There were one too many references to vaginal secretions and this took much of the sexy away from the book; especially if they are referred to as smelly, oily and underwear destroying. When the author speaks of underwear, she does not name some of the more beautiful lingerie makers, instead she refers to extra absorbent crotches in her underwear. I would be mortified if I urinated during any sex act. Perhaps this is my personal hang up. If these "Yoni" masters are so good, could they not stop before you pee so that people like me would feel more comfortable and enjoy this story more. Being wet and ready for your lover is very sexy with your healthy scrupulously clean vagina...in sexy expensive lingerie. Mentioning squirting juices that have a strong odor; the need for superb absorbent underwear; crusty underwear that needs to be thrown away because of the stench (someone is not well); and an overall preoccupation with the natural God given lubrication every other page for me is not sexy. As far as the plot and characterizations go; the plot centered around preventing the burned out "Yoni" from retiring; especially since he has just found a long lost love. The characters of the male protagonist, Devin and female protagonist, Cassandra are the most fleshed out. Actually, the burned out "Yoni" master shows himself to be a fake when he makes some deprecating remarks about some of the women whose "Yoni" he massaged. These remarks take away some of his sexy. The reader now feels that these "Yoni" masters are not as professional or worse yet, do not have a respect and appreciation for the "Yoni" overall, just the pretty and young. In general, I liked Cassandra. The author just made her think about the blasted juices from intercourse. Oh the potential this book could have had. It was simply too wet and slippery about what is and is not sexy.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Cindersmellya; Author: Alexis Angel; Genres: romance; Review: Give Yourself a Mindgasm Here's the deal...this is straight up pure lady smut. And we should expect no less from Alexis Angel. She is one creative love choreographer. I don't think a pon producer/director could flash the scenes that play out from the page to your mind that our lovely Ms. Angel writes free from inhibitions and censure. Part of me that loves to study the art of women's erotica objects to simplistic plots with Eros-crazed characters that literally eat, sleep and breathe for sexual pleasure and the many ways to find this pleasure. But I remind myself that there is something to be said for a gal who quietly and calmly in public or at home in the presence of loved ones reads the filthiest, drippiest dirty, dirty stories on their kindle. One is glad this stuff exists and it's like a quiet passive/aggressive FU to the world that still economically and socially judges women as lesser than rather than equal to... So I come to the conclusion that this literature has its place to...IDK gather ideas, enjoy the dreamy male creations who are genetically gifted and partake in an author's unbelievable stream of consciousness sexually explicit encounters and adventures. The "traditional" parts, if you can use the word, that one likes is that once the love pair unites in the story, they are mutually exclusive to each other and marriage is the ultimate happy ending. There you are...add the fact that its a beautiful stripper princess and a "hung like a horse" (Praise Be!) billionaire prince...well...sounds like one hell and is one hella fairytale. One day dear Alexis Angel, I hope to see you slow your roll and write an epic modern romance that will give the reader all of the angst, story, plot and content that moves the heart along with all the sexy times! For that great big EFF you, simply follow your finger and one click this baby.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Crema (Dreamboat Island, #1); Author: Steve Milton; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: No one forgets their first... Well, curiosity finally got to me. This was my first M&M erotic romance. (Do you like the way I refer to it as a candy?) And sweet like candy was this delicious, albeit naughty treat. I truly enjoyed it. Of course who wouldn't enjoy a story about people who feel desire, have a story to tell, and engage in some explicitly detailed erotic sex. Hey a girl can learn some things about what a man finds unabashedly sexually pleasurable. I found the two main characters simply...well...edible to carry the pun a little further. Zeke is the brainiac muscled Adonis with genetic gifts to impress any man or woman for that matter. Clark is the handsome grey-eyed awkward lawyerly, lean-bodied man who assumes he is straight but never felt the sexual desire he feels for Zeke from the first meeting. Yes, a tale of a virgin loved by their first one true person. I read to discover new worlds, ideas, ways to express oneself and of special interest to me is the different ways we love each other in the bedroom and otherwise. I am happy to have learned a little more of this condition we find ourselves in...the human condition. I do have a secret that I will share in return...if not for love nothing would have, does or ever will exist. To quote Wally Lamb, "This Much I Know". Back to Mr. Milton's work...It is an engaging, easy reading mostly lighthearted sometimes funny story. I just found at least two continuity errors. A careful edit or even reread would have caught these errors. I err on the side of generosity in my rating...well...it was my first and so it stands let's say "in the name of love". I also invoke the name of love promising you despite the continuity errors, you will enjoy this piece of M&M candy.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: His Turn (Turning #3); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: romance; Review: Delicious Dynamic of Desperate Deviance!!! Brava! Brava! JA Huss!!! The alliteration in my review title is in tribute to the skill, insight and bit of mind effery with which you entertain your readers. In reading the singular genius of this book the reader will notice that Ms. Huss breaks all the rules of a D/s relationship, how a romance blossoms between lovers, even the rules of the very "game" that Bric fancies himself playing with both Nadia and Lawton. We first meet Lawton and he is described by Bric as: "He's in his prime. Twenty-eight years old. Built like a [effing] MMA fighter, tall enough to be intimidating, wealthy enough to be confident, and good-looking. But he's also smart enough to know how to rein all that in. Present himself as someone who is just another humble servant, ready to please." The other new player of the "game" is Nadia and she is not quite the submissive in denial that the writer of the deep "dark" romance usually creates for us. Bric's assessment of her is: "Nadia Wolfe. Twenty-something. Beautiful. Talented. Ballerina. Control freak. New in town. Rising star. Player of games." Nadia is a control freak and she has true Dominant personality and erotic traits. I just love her last name, "Wolfe"- a female predator...a female wolf. The reader begins to notice that unlike the other women in this series, she was almost pathological in her "need" to win the "war" of heart-wrenching mind-effery that is the game. We all remember well from the first two books in the series, the fierce brutality of mind manipulation Bric would and will employ when playing the game, hardly ever conceding to any other player. Yet, in this book Nadia introduces us to "Elias"aka Bric who gets played. It's escalating warfare between Nadia and Bric with Lawton seeming to act as the "go-between" for the both of the them. Actually the reader joins in on the torment of the "mind-eff", having our emotions twisted one way and then the other way. It is not until the end we realize how much Ms. Huss took us to school. In the end we find out who is truly the master of this game and the unbelievable motive behind their need to play the game with the other players. This is not the usual fare one expects in the "darker" romance. Ms. Huss, with her creative plotline and gorgeous language shows the reader an upsidedown but believable look at the psychology of the usual D/s erotic romance, the necessity for trust and maybe a warning of the danger to anyone who continually and carelessly uses their sexual desire and satiation as a drug, disassociating themselves from reality i.e. the "game". Of course what good is a mind-eff without the panty "vaporizing" laser intensity of the most deliciously dirty, "no holds barred" erotic encounters between and amoung the players that this author creates for the reader. It's a dance in the dark. Yet, in this deep, dark, denizen of desire shines the brightest, most beautiful silverly-white intense light.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: The Drazen World: Hold (Kindle Worlds Novella); Author: Kristi Beckhart; Genres: romance; Review: The Brilliance of the Author's Title, "Hold"! Ms. Beckhart is truly doing justice to "The Drazen World" in this her latest release, "Hold". She also follows nicely in the footsteps of C. D. Reiss with the clever and sophisticated wordplay of naming this offering " Hold". For you see there are numerous meanings attributed into this word, "hold" with so many apropos to the read. This is the continuing story of Eve, the beautiful biracial single mother who had to rebuild her life after being "held" like a prisoner, locked up for days on end in a closet with her baby boy, Aaron. And, central to the continuing storyline is her relationship with Sam, the owner of "The Stock" hotel and restaurant who recently revealed that he had in the past enjoyed D/s erotic play. This revelation of Sam's erotic past was frightening and confusing to Eve who had but a duffle bag worth of possessions, her baby boy and her strength of will to "hold" onto as she escaped the nightmare of an abusive past. The short novella is all about the confusion between loving D/s play and actual physical abuse. The confusion that Eve "held" in her mind. Along with her love and desire for Sam, could Eve find the trust in Sam to set free her natural submissive nature in their love play? Intrigue and suspense add to the richness of the tale with the return of her abuser from the past and the pressure put on Sam by his disapproving older sister who "held" a very dim view of Sam and Eve's relationship. Sam's overriding desire is... to "hold" Eve and Aaron safely in his arms away from the past and the lurking danger from her abuser in the present. I have had the unique perspective of reading "Drazen World" literature before reading the masterful author, C. D. Reiss who created this world in a genius opus of a book series. I have found "The Drazen World" literature written by numerous authors and namely here Ms. Beckhart to be revelatory and instructional. There is no telling of the value in returning to a world that is beloved by the fan. There is a distinct genius to "The Drazen World" in which both author and fan exchange ideas, introduce new characters, ideas and themes and develop storylines that can literally spin out into infinity. (For me, I found the introduction of the new character, Belladona quite charming ;)) I would invite anyone, the novice in navigating "The Drazen World" and, most especially, "The Drazen World" lover to once again visit this world through the eyes and pen of Kristi Beckhart. Simply one click to begin or add this to your collection. Your world will be richer for the read.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Resist; Author: Missy Johnson; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: Who's Resisting Whom? Sigh Perhaps my first question should rather be: Why was the novella titled "Resist"? The story has an interesting enough trope...dark and reclusive wealthy bachelor with kinkier proclivities meet the somewhat fresh-faced ingenue ready to begin her journalism career with expose of said bachelor's secrets. When all is said and done the reader can find a reasonable measure of entertainment in this book. However for the reader who needs more than entertainment, there are a few things that are a little off pitch in the story. I'm afraid this tips too far into darker realms for the regular romance reader, yet not far enough psychologically or erotically for the reader who looks for the light in the darkest, hottest erotica. This was sort of lukewarm. Personally, the characters were written in the beginning like cliches. As the story went on, I did not understand their development, motivations or actions. They read like the author read about how they should behave and then wrote them from halfway understanding the behavior about which she read. I suppose what I am trying to say is they didn't seem to live in the author's mind and therefore how could she write them so that they would come alive in my mind? I had a difficult time trying to picture the look and movement of our Alpha male and the heroine seemed equally difficult to comprehend. My last observation is the sex seemed rushed, not too terribly dark and erotic. During each sexual encounter, I believe the characters may have exchanged maybe one sentence of the beloved "dirty talk" that enhances the experience for thecharacters...and of course the readers as well. If I offend your sensibilities with this review then simply put the blame on me. I so hate to say anything negative about a book. This is of course is only my opinion. Value it whatever way you will. I did say the book entertains just does not seem to offer an authentic glimpse into the worlds in which deep dark romance lives and the brilliant light found in this darkness. I rated it 3.5 stars. Out of respect of the author's efforts I always round up.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Inoperative (Cyborg #1); Author: Charity Parkerson; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: Someday My Prince...uh rather Android...Will Come!!! (Pun intended in the title of the review!) Oh...Well that was too short! This is such a delicious trope; having your very own android that cooks, cleans, protects you, and monitors your hormone levels. Perhaps some of the most mind-bending features of this machine are that it manifests to you by its actions and intensity that you inspire human lust and desire in its being. Of course it fulfills your sexual needs as well. This is all in a gorgeous package of male anatomical perfection which includes one of many women's favorite physical gifts which a man can possess. This is a sexy enough fantasy...but...the author adds an interesting twist to the set up by giving our android, Miles actual independent and thoroughly human emotions as expressed in passages written from the POV of the android. The erotic encounters are a fantasy which heretofore I had not entertained, but I think I am ready to learn how to program AI dY~EUR. Gives new meaning to the concept of a BOB! Yes, this was too short but long enough to convince me that I may want to read the whole series. Oh, and you need to find out just what exactly our super sexy smokin' hot Miles is. Meeting him is worth the one click.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Loaded; Author: Roxie Noir; Genres: romance, thriller, crime, paranormal, fantasy, mystery; Review: Defender from The Village of Wolves Oh my Heart!!! This read was so damn good, good, good!!! Before I continue, I just have to tell you that I simply just fell in love with the main male character, Alejandro Villalobos. If you haven't guessed by now, the title of my review is the translation of his name. He is written to be as dirty, bad and hot as sin. He does the unthinkable to defend the woman his criminal organization told him to drug and kidnap. He is as cagey, intelligent and alluring as an Alpha Wolf. And all the ways he shows his desire...well it is enough to make a good girl turn bad. Tessa is an educated, beautiful and feisty woman. She was just made to order for Alejandro (Alex). She tears herself inside out over her unfailing and continuing attraction to such a violent man because he fulfills her every sexual need not merely her want. The reader will find this book to be extremely well-written. The writing draws you into each of the main characters' POV. One POV picks up from the other, continuing the story as the POV changes. Even though the reader has the omniscient viewpoint, there are twists and turns in the storyline that surprise the reader. These surprises make the story all the more interesting...even more plausible. I personally love the writing of Roxie Noir. I look forward to her books as they are released. She only gets better and better. She has an unique style when writing mind-blowing erotica in her romances...super, salivatingly hot, hawt, hot!!! I wondered a little about the title, "Loaded". There are a number of denotations and connotations that can be referenced to the word, "loaded" in this story. My favorite is from the beginning, Alex was a "loaded" question in Tessa's mind...even more so, in the mind of the reader. One-click to find out how the loaded question is answered. You will be delighted!!!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Always You (Dirtshine #2); Author: Roxie Noir; Genres: romance; Review: "Fire Extinguishers" An exceptional read from an exceptional an unique romance master writer. No matter what is happening in my life or my "book life", I always make time to read the new releases from Roxie Noir. In doing so, I am always rewarded with a lovely, down to earth and yet "stuff of the stars" romance that lives in mind long after the reading is done. This book was utterly amazing!!! and no exception. This is Roxie Noir reaching another level with her unique voice and authentic emotional romantic portrayals. The characters, Darcy and Trent, are rock musicians and in this read I could hear the music in the writing. Ohhhh! I love that!!! In this backdrop of the rock world, the band, "Dirtshine" and their recent rise to super fame, Darcy and Trent have been long-time "besties". The reader is able to sense the complex and rising temperature of the chemistry happening between Darcy and Trent. Do they dare risk their easy going BFF relationship for something more? After an incident on stage in which Darcy is hurt badly, Trent needs to tend to her wounds and we feel his desire for Darcy barely held in check. He does not know how Darcy feels much the same way. There is an exciting and believable rise in tension that has the readers heart on tether hooks! To complicate matters both, Darcy and Trent, are damaged and therefore emotionally flawed in a real relate-able way. (Is it not true that we all are emotionally flawed in some way?) Their respective background causes Darcy to be emotionally distant and afraid of abandonment and Trent to be haunted by an explosive rage disorder. Valiantly they both try for each other...try to soothe each other...listen to each other...try to save each other and ultimately love each other in all ways. Of course being all to human, heartbreaking mistakes are made which adds depth to these characters and the story told. After all, rage burns hot...and...fear is a fever. "He puts out my fires -- literally -- and I put out his, and it's the way it's been for a long time and the way it's going to be." - Darcy Along with this heady emotional tension is some spot on, absolutely delightful, LMAO moments. And don't get me started on the earthy, sexy, pulse-pounding hot, hawt, hot erotic love scenes. Again Ms. Noir has an unique voice when it comes to crafting these beautiful and moving vignettes. All the "shivers"...all the "feels". My my my... All in all, "Always You" is the "real deal" and everything a reader asks for from a life-enriching romance.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Thousands (Dollar, #4); Author: Pepper Winters; Genres: mystery, thriller, crime, romance, fiction; Review: A Thousand Times, A Thousand Worth in Dollars, A Thousand Kisses, A Thousand Apologies When you've had your heart rent from your chest about a thousand times only to have it put back a little bigger each time...And you still can not wait for more. It's then you realize the unique genius of Pepper Winters. She is a phenomenon of a writer who writes saga after saga which explores the darker realm of sexual proclivities, as well as, the guilt and shame the fallen sexual abuser feels when redeemed by love. Part of the beauty of "Thousands", is I can really see a reader starting from this book. The read refreshes the memory of the past, not fully, but enough to get a taste. Of course just a taste of this epic saga would never satisfy, so be prepared to find yourself not only catching up but curious for the stories of Jethro and Q. Pim as a character is, for me, a masterpiece. Ms. Winters does not hold back as we experience further indignities and physical assault at the hands of the wealthy sadistic and cruel. Her love for her rescuer, Elder, while often a source of safety and comfort also causes her pain. Sometimes the reader feels their love is as hopeless as Elder's broken mind. Other times we come to the conclusion that he is just a man in love who feels powerless in his love. He is an extraordinary male, deliciously sexy, so wonderfully complicated...so wonderfully Alpha. These characters' streams of consciousness would vacillate much like all of ours. This deep dive into the psyche accompanies suspenseful plot points. Very little is telegraphed and very little goes the way a reader of romance wills it to go...and yet we hang on for more torture. I am left after the finish of this read with my mind spinning. How is our brave and strong Pim going to convince Q that she is whole, healed, strong and was/is? in love with Elder, the man, who despite his demons, healed her physically, mentally, spiritually and sexually? I invite any lover of the mysteries of love and the power of sexuality to begin this saga. You can start here...I suspect you will be so pulled in that you will begin at the beginning...and wait with me for the last book and it is all well, good and finished.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Lover Wanted: A Billionaire Boss Romance; Author: Rylee Swann; Genres: romance; Review: "I offer her nothing but the hell I reside in. She should call me Lucifer. I capture her lips. I take her in. I make her mine"- Michael Brava, Rylee Swann! This is a sterling effort as your first published book. This is the beginning of a long promising career as a writer. The beginning of your conversation with the reader in your presentment of characters, their flaws sufferings and triumphs...and the themes around which your stories are created. You are off to an excellent start with this story which offers the reader so much more than the "ad copy" portends. Our heroine, Kim, is it out of money, filled with self-doubt...which is the absolute worst time to try to find a new job...She is mourning the demise of her marriage and lonely enough to find an impersonal hookup on Craig's List. The reader discovers she has what I would describe as "kink curiosity". Answering this add she meets Michael who is a beautiful Alpha male who likes to indulge in exhibitionism with a partner for select clients. Ms.Swann does an excellent job at keeping Michael an enigma who is so gun shy about having any relationship...and yet he is inexplicably drawn in just that direction by the changing Kim. She is developing more self confidence and doing all the right things to foster this new confidence. An interesting twist in the story is that she meets an "Adonis" type man who is a police man absolutely smitten with her. He treats her like the precious princess she is. The story is resolved in a half heartbreakingly and half...I will leave you to the read so will enjoy the discovery on your own. Concerning the good stuff like heat level of the sexy times and the explicit sex, well our girl, Rylee can write. She ventures somewhat into the kink which is hot, hawt, hot!!! The hot sex is pantingly delicious!!! What's more the slower lovemaking erotic scenes are pitch perfect melting your heart along with your kindle! Make sure your kindle is insured...before you one click your way to this gorgeous read by a first-timer. Who can ever forget their first time? Let's make Rylee Swann's first time writing and publishing a book memorable and special.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Stud; Author: Jamie K. Schmidt; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: The "Stud" with the Diamond Stud in his ear!!! This is one of a romance reader's favorite tropes and Ms. Schmidt writes this one with delicious hotness, heart-racing sexual tension, surprising plot twists and even an element of depth to the story. Our heroine, Terri is beautiful, intelligent, loyal and struggling. She lovingly cares for her brother, who in the prime of his life, has been stricken with a devastating disease. She does this by working two and three jobs. More than her loyal and golden heart, she also has an air of sexual desirability about her. Enter Mick who is and has been privileged all of his life, yet never truly had a genuine connection with anyone, save for his deceased grandfather. We see him through the eyes of Terri...and he acts like a douche with his dismissive and demanding ways. We also hear how sexy he is and how good he smells. Everyday for five months they never speak to each other when he comes into the coffee shop where Terri is a barista...But there is no denying the sexual chemistry as they eye-eff each other. Ms. Schmidt begins the actual sexual connection between Terri and Mick with a sizzling scene at a club party where Terri works as a server. A subtle but powerful attention getting beginning to Terri and Mick's sexual relationship. The reader finds the erotic scenes done very nicely...by nicely I mean hot, hawt, hot, explicit, delightful...a touch raw and gritty, sex...to include cybersex in an online videogame. The story involves that lovely tension created by the characters finding themselves changing and perhaps being ultimately transformed by real, genuine and self sacrificing love. The surprising symbolism of a "Stud" is what happens to both studs per se...the man and the diamond stud earring in his ear. I was invited through NetGalley to read an ARC and if I felt inclined, leave a honest review. I was so delighted in the read, I purchased a copy. This was the first time I have read this author and I consider this a most happy accident!!! I just love it when an ARC is this good. I will certainly hope to read more of her work. I paid for my copy even after receiving an ARC, so I feel very comfortable recommending you to one click this entertaining and engaging read; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Five (Mister, #0.5); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: "I'm officially on the train to Crazytown." - Rory Shrike Was there any doubt in your mind that Princess Rory and "Effing Five" were fated to be lovers? Serious loves? Partners...for life? The reader of "Five" will begin to doubt from the beginning the certainty of the "no doubt" of the last question from the beginning of the book until the very end. What a fantastical ride upon which the reader is taken in this story!...And therein lies both the fascination of and frustration at the strain of credulity this fantasy of a ride takes the reader. From past books in the timeline where Five appears, we know he is no ordinary guy. We know his pedigree to be son of Ford and grandson of the boss of one of China's organized crime Triads. Five, himself, was such an unusual and unusually bright boy whose one constant was that he loved and was fated to be forever with his "Princess". But...he's been away at Oxford for six years leaving Rory alone and pinning for him. She just about lost hope at Five ever returning to her. What is the reason and how could Five just abandon the love of his life? The answer to this question boggles the mind...and leaves a few loose ends. Not to mention...the lengths Rory goes to resolve the predicament she is in possibly with Five or for Five. The resolution happens at Princeton no less. Ms. Huss is genius level creative. Her writing is intricate in plot construction. She is a master with words. The cherry on top is her moving beautiful erotic writing. Yet, as a reader I was left a bit wanting. The fabric of the story seemed a trifle unraveled...rushed. I am still uncertain if it is my fault in that I did not read close enough or perhaps because of reading past books of this series, I put so such expectation in the possibilities this author had in writing about this unique character, Five. Could it be I was disappointed in him and blaming it on the writer who imagined him? As a reader, I was left with so many questions and a little sad.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Exploited (Zero Day, #1); Author: A. Meredith Walters; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: A Scintillating Tale and Study in Multidimensional Exploitation!!! taking a huge breath Yes, this story takes your breath away in the most fascinating way. It is an intelligent, intricate story involving the intersection of an online vigilante cracker, our heroine, Hannah and Hannah the woman who steps into the real world and attempts to manipulate (exploit) the weaknesses of FBI agent, Mason, much like she "exploits" weaknesses in secure information systems of evil doers/"exploiters". She really is not eager to interface with a real human in her exploits but she needs to make contact to find out the extent of this agent's knowledge of her nefarious activities. She knows this because of the information passed on to her by the partner she recently acquired in a deep net chat room to assist her in her cracking efforts. This new cracker, remains an enigma, although if you are paying attention to the subtle clues in the read, you may form an idea or two in your mind as to the identity or identities of this or these individual(s). Ms. Walters applies a practiced pen to the deep and stirring emotions of the characters. Hannah is instantly attracted to Agent Mason, both his demeanor and his tall, handsome, blonde hair and blue eyed good looks. Hannah creates a false persona tailor made to Mason as she presents herself to him. Mason has a niggling feeling that she is so perfect for him...it is too good to be true. From the moment he meets her and as he falls in love with her, he suppresses his intuition even as she is caught in outright lies. Hannah uses her own honest grief and guilt feelings involving her sister who is severely debilitated by the auto accident that also caused the death of her father to exploit the weakness of the unresolved guilt and grief Mason is carrying over the death of his brother. Their connection for all the lies and abuse of trust on Hannah's part is deep and to the bone. There is one intense sexual scene in which I felt that flutter in my tummy...it was so explicit, raw and beautifully Alpha male. It is because Hannah stays closer than she should for both reasons...her vigilante mission and their blossoming real love that things fall apart.Watching this descent into literal madness is fascinating, brilliant in the exploitation of a reader's emotions and exceedingly clever writing. Yes, we are left on a cliff but we are not just hanging there. You are left there brain and heart engaged thinking and feeling deeply for yes both these characters/lovers. Most of all, you will be left hoping the next book comes soonest! I was introduced to this book as an ARC from NetGalley. This author seriously deserved to get paid for so fine a story! I put my money where my review is, so without hesitation I vouch for the value of this fascinating and scintillating tale.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Tragic / Manic / Panic (Rook & Ronin, #1-3); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: romance; Review: "Blackbird...All your life, You were only waiting for the moment to be free." - "Blackbird"- Paul McCartney This is a rich, sweeping saga of a fate-destined love affair. After her young life of struggling and severe abuse , Rook is running away again. She is running from an emotionally and physically abusive relationship, following the signs of fate along the way. She finds herself in Denver of all places, taken in by a strange darker world of erotic modeling with people who seem like the kind of folks you can trust or are they? Her beauty is striking and compelling...with black-brown hair and electric blue eyes. She also has an air of innocence and suffering about her. The famous photographer, Antoine Chaput is absolutely convinced he must have her for his TRAGIC media campaign. Ronin while captivated himself with Rook, is a gorgeous polished erotic male model with striking looks and also the same shade of electric blue eyes. He tries to ignore his initial feelings for her, he soon discovers, however, that he is overcome with desire and longing for this creature who responds so beautifully to his sensuous ministrations both on and off the photography set. More than this he enjoys her as a person. Ronin by nature is a dominant and controlling man. His brand of dominance is laced with thoughtfulness and kindness. Unfortunately, Rook has known a more dark and sinister brand of dominance and pulls back from Ronin by asserting her will in accepting jobs and contracts that Ronin suggested may not be in her best interests. She is initially confused and scared when she begins her new job with the "Sturgis" campaign for Shrike bikes with Spencer Shrike an old friend of Rook's. Ronin is not always by her side to keep her steady through the demands of this modeling job. But soon she is learning to adapt and trust a little bit more. We are introduced to "the team" as they refer to themselves., Ronin, Ford and Spencer. It would seem to the reader that each of these men falls to certain degree for the "Blackbird".,, and each of these men bring to her an element to her healing from the past. Throughout the saga she is true to the man she grows to love, her Ronin, though the challenges she faces pulls at the fabric of this relationship. In the end she must go back and face her past and open up the floodgates for Ronin. She still needs to fly but Ronin hopes for the day she will come to roost with him. The writing is absolutely polished sterling and warm like honey. Ms. Huss shows her skill in describing so sensuously a mere touch which can bring goosebumps out in a reader...make one skip a breath even. The complicated story line is cleverly laid out so not a detail is missed by the reader. Beyond this, the reader often wonders which detail will open up the mysteries remaining in the story. The art of writing suspense is well-polished by this author. It; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Ford: Slack / Taut (Rook and Ronin Spinoff, #1-2); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: romance; Review: " Dear God, Thank you for sending me Ford." - Ashleigh This man...oh this man...words elude me at the moment. The first novella, "Slack" gives us a snapshot of Ford who is unraveling slowly because of his unrequited love for Rook. He feels that she is the only woman that he ever wanted and wants to touch him; the only woman with whom he wishes to kiss and share a normal love affair spiced up with a little kink. He realizes that he is indeed capable of feelings because previous to this revelation he thought he just did not share in the feelings associated with just being human. He felt his off the charts genius and propensity for the dark arts with "his team" that includes Ronin and Spencer came at the price of being an unfeeling bastward. "Taut" picks up after he declares himself to Rook and tells her he must leave her life because he cannot stand the pain of wanting but never having her. He finds himself running away out of Denver up into the mountains ill prepared with his 30 yr old Bronco in a furious snowstorm. He is stranded in Vail as is a young mother with her baby. He shares his motel room with her and begins to take care of these two seemingly fragile beings as they journey together to LA, by way of Vegas. Gradually Ashleigh and little baby Kate worm their way into his heart. Yet, he is ever careful in giving all of his love, tenderness, even permission to touch him. Ms. Huss created one of the sexiest evolving Alpha Dominant males I've read. In a way, his reflections about his youth and how he did not or could not stand to be touched...his isolation...his inventive, sometimes hurtful pranks and lack of care for others...are reflections we all may have about how selfish we may have been in our youth. She creates this lovely tug and pull between Ashleigh and Ford. Ashleigh is holding on to her love of the father of her baby and perhaps only desires Ford sexually. Ford is holding on to his kisses and tenderness because he wants Ashleigh and Kate to be his more than he ever wanted anyone else to include Rook. Ashleigh herself is a marvel with a keen intelligence and spot-on insight. Her entire story is one that will break your heart. Her tender and attentive care of her baby is lovely to behold. The climax of their story is breathtaking. The first kiss sublime. Ford becomes a complete man, a lovely man a beautiful, desirable, sexually exciting man. And, as Ashleigh remarked a couple times, he has a nice package! Ms. Huss, thank you for writing Ford for me!; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Spencer: Bomb / Guns (Rook and Ronin Spinoff, #3-4); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: romance; Review: "It's like life shifted. Everything became real. You make me real, Ronnie. You started my heart. You are the missing piece..." Both "Bomb" and "Guns" bring us insight into the forever love that Spencer cherishes with Veronica aka Ronnie, the Bomb, and Bombshell. So much so, that he has to stay away from her for fear of her being drawn into the danger that he and and his team now find themselves. He does not want one little hair on her head harmed and he is also extremely protective of her family. He is partially successful at staying away but when a man loves a woman there is only so much sainthood he can muster. Ronnie knows deep in her heart that Spencer Shrike truly loves her but his actions are infuriating and extremely hurtful. She needs his love. She needs a change. She is getting more and more paranoid about the blood involved in her tattooing her clients. She does not appreciate the fact that she is a world class tattoo artist. She is tired of the mixed messages from Spencer and wants to move on. Guns tells the story of their love affair from the beginning and shows the shenanigans that Ronnie gets into trying to find her place in the world and/or getting the attention of Spencer. We also gain insight into the character of Spencer and his role on "the team". It is a very exciting conclusion to the story of the team and a beautiful resolution to the love that Spencer and Ronnie share. Spencer is that delicious, funny ,hard working, and brilliant, football player built Adonis, Alpha male. I remember him when he first began painting Rook and how gently he breathed upon her lower region while he was painting her body. He is powerful sexy. Veronica is simply "the Bombshell"! She is built like a pin-up girl with long flowing blonde hair. The sex between these two is some heady, powerful lovemaking!!! The scenes leave the reader weak in the knees. These two books are like the whipped cream on a dessert or more likely the sauce, chocolate or otherwise. Yes, it's the sauce. Sometimes a simple sauce holds the secret to the delicious taste; pulls the whole dessert together; and is perhaps the most delicious component to the creation. Congratulations, Ms. Huss on a well made delicious tasting dessert, most especially the delicious sauce you put a ton of in these last two books of the series.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Happily Ever After: A Day in the Life of the HEA (Rook and Ronin, #3.5); Author: J.A. Huss; Genres: romance; Review: "That Special First Kiss" Joy is the overriding emotion I felt after reading this lovely Christmas novella. The reader involved in the entire series cannot help but feel absolute uplifting joy as these characters have grown into Mommies, Daddies with very special children. That they have come through the sorrows and troubles in the nighttime of their lives, That they took their special someone gifted to them by Fate or Providence or the Lord above and made some unique and beautiful offspring. "Joy comes in the morning" - Psalm 30 At Christmas the gigantic Vail mansion is filled with the three families celebrating separately and together. This is the year that things will begin to change. Rook gently told Ronin that he needed to be more present in his little girl's lives so as not to miss the years they come into their maturity. He finds the trust he needs to have in Sparrow and Rook to allow Sparrow to do some equestrian modeling. Ford finally reads the subtle clues and messages about Ashleigh's desire to have another baby and despite his worries, he is on board with having another child and ready to get to work. Spencer's Bombshell is feeling blue and unattractive. She is recovering from her newest of the 6 children she has: All little girls and one next to the last in line a boy. These minor problems work there way to solutions as the stillness and the newness of the eve before the day we celebrate the power of love which was gifted to mankind and all he earth. Most notably is a teenage love that may turn out to be a forever love between Five, Ford's son and Rory, Spencer's first daughter. Ford is off to study at Oxford in England. While Rory will have the normal American High School experience. They will change and only the future knows how they will change and if their love will survive. Ford needed his first kiss to be with Rory and she needed her first kiss to be with Ford. The extraordinary boy that he is, he created a very special phone app for her because..."Because I'm going to make sure , no matter what happens , there will always be an us." - Five While Rory may not have the genius level left brain intelligence, Rory is surprisingly emotionally intelligent and her genius is in her interpersonal skills. This novella was like looking at a snapshot of time. Love in action in all relationships both in the family unit and the members of the team interacting with one another. There is so much more promise in the strong foundations of love. Come what may they are prepared to guide their children through to their dreams. They stand by each other through thick and thin. And from this rich soil of love and family already two beautiful blossoms have sprouted both reaching out to each other through a first kiss to one day bring forth even more joy as they negotiate the challenges of their circumstances of separation; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Sugar; Author: Natasha LeCroix; Genres: romance; Review: As Rare as the Rainbow-Maned Unicorn...A Beautiful Sugar Daddy!!! This was a reasonably entertaining read with a fantastical trope. A moneyed family loses it all because daddy is a cheat. The sisters do not even have a strong stable mother to rely upon. Octavia becomes the responsible one who tries to pick up the pieces of her life honorably and helps her brilliant sister get the care and education she deserves. Her wealthy boyfriend (the boy she actually loved) is tricked into dumping her because he prefers the love and admiration of his father over keeping true to his love. Now, she is financially strapped when her girlfriend shares with her the way to get extra money is to become a wealthy man's escort. During Octavia's first assignment, everything goes haywire and of course she runs into the boy who left her behind. She literally forces him to become a "sugar daddy" to keep company with her. The ending is not too difficult to guess. The writing was competent but nothing about it touched me on a soul level. The one sex scene was beautifully written. There should have been more scenes and writing devoted to the passionate dance between the two lovers of the book. The reading was a trifle slow because of the excessive amount of detail expressed in all things. Romance readers love the romance and the tension built between the main characters. Perhaps a little less minutiae and a lot more heat and romantic tension would win the day.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: Interview with the Bad Boy; Author: Rylee Swann; Genres: thriller, crime, romance, mystery; Review: "I feel it like magic" "I'm captivated. There's a fire and rage in the man that scares me, but I can't look away. I feel it like magic, like the force of the moon on the tides. I'm drawn in, drowning. I feel so small and lost, withering under the heat that comes from his gaze." - Becca Well sports fans...it is that time of year again when our attention is drawn to football...but for the avid lover of hot, a little dark and a lot dirty romance, any time of year is a good time for a smoking' hot, slightly damaged, super intense football player. Our man Cole in this story checks all those boxes and more. He is a bad, bad boy with a body made for sin, coal black hair and blue eyes like beacons. His counterpart Becca is beautiful herself but more than this she is determined to become an accomplished and principled journalist. The setting is the campus of Syracuse University and both our main characters are living in the bubble of campus life as students...Cole is the talented star quarterback with a manwhore, hard partying reputation while Becca is tasked with interviewing him by her ex-boyfriend editor for the school newspaper. Both of these characters have so much on the line. Cole has NFL prospects if he can keep his nose clean. Becca wants to desperately retain her professionalism at all times while completing this interview assignment...Excellent romantic tension!!! This is the second book by Ms. Swann and it is because of her stellar effort at her first ever published book that I was certain to read this book. I was delighted with the read. This author writes in a smooth relatable style. There is decent character development for the short read of a snapshot in time when these two lovers meet. These characters come fleshed out with issues of which the reader can understand the genesis from their respective pasts, as well as, appreciate the author's resolution of these issues within the telling of Cole and Becca's story. The erotic writing is heart pounding, saliva inducing and oh to add the cliche of panty melting because it just is soooo true. The words keep the reader present without any distraction or jarring incredulity. This writer knows how to write the dirty and darker. Simply delectable!!! This is a great read for the lover of collegiate football or more accurately, the lover of the football player. This is especially true of the Dominating and controlled, a little dangerous quarterback who has magic in his eyes for that one special woman...and the woman who his willing to face her own demons for a chance to experience the promises of that magic in his eyes. Catch a little of this real magic yourself with a one click of this book.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Vicious (Sinners of Saint, #1); Author: L.J. Shen; Genres: young-adult, romance, fiction; Review: "There's a fine line between love and hate.Love frees a soul and in the same breath can sometimes suffocate it." - Unknown Rarely have I as a reader been so enthralled and repulsed by the same character in a book as I am about the man known as Vicious. That is until the author reminds me that he was once a loving little boy who despite the trappings of the uber-rich all around him, lived a lifetime in his youth of hollow degradation with no one, but no one, to whom he could turn. This desperate little boy grew into a man far too quickly who was dangerous in his disdain for humanity and literally "vicious" in his approach to life save for perhaps his "Hothole" high school crew, the fearsome foursome bonded like brothers in arms, inviolate, against all who would come against them. Then there she was...Half a vision of all that he hated and half a woman whom he desired to the point of madness. There she stood in the "gloaming between the light and the dark. He did know and it was perfectly clear to all concerned that she belonged to him. He was hers to do with as he pleased and it pleased him to visit upon her all the "vicious" hatred bubbling up to the surface of his being when he looked at her. Who is she? She is Emilia, an artist with a heart filled with sensitive love. She is a quirky girl with loud clothes and soft lavender hair who is supremely unaffected by wealth and its trappings. She does not need to slap a designer label across her back because she had her own style. And from the start she was captivated, enthralled, fascinated by her attraction to this sculpture of a man who has done nothing but torment her. She saw beauty in him and valued him. He did not value her. Emilia was a rare treasure who did not go unnoticed by Vicious' crew. One of them dared to become her boyfriend and treat her as she should be treated, decently and as a treasure. This enraged Vicious so he plotted to insure her departure from him, his crew, and tragically for her, her parents. Ten years later they meet in New York quite by accident and the same dance between "the shadow and the soul" of Vicious resumes. I met this author for the first time in her last book of this series, "Scandalous" . Immediately after reading that book, I had the whole series lined up in my Kindle. This book certainly did not disappoint and was riveting in the examination of these two characters, the themes uncovered by their interaction and the beautiful artistry of this writer's words , conceptions and depictions of hate, love and...grace. The line between love and hate is indeed thin and I will suggest that the areas separated by the line are shaded in a gradient fashion...the color most intense closest to the finest of lines and fading as it bleeds away. Oh; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Afterlife: A Knights of the Boardroom Novel (Knights of the Board Room Series Book 4); Author: Joey W. Hill; Genres: romance, fiction; Review: Karma or Mercy? I need to begun this review with heaping, overflowing draughts off praise. Praise for an author who wonderfully weaves a beautiful moving love story of a women who felt herself past her prime. A beautiful yoga devotee and teacher who found her strength in her work life and yoga practice after a bitterly disappointing first marriage and the soul-shattering grief over loss of her precious young son. The "Master" who turned his focused attention on her is a younger, devastatingly handsome, "enlightened", wealthy genius who is one powerful sexual force. He also has been her student for a year in the yoga classes she teaches. Jon is one of the "Knights of the Boardroom" and this book is part of the series of books about these Dominant Masters who once they decide on their chosen woman, they all pitch in so many delightful ways to help their "brother" of the boardroom seal the deal. The reader is taken on a glorious ride with Rachel who feels insecurities from her own severely critical thoughts about herself. Thoughts that were originally planted by her bitter ex husband who criticized her less than vanilla leanings in her desires. Thoughts about her age and the little belly she had as a result, plagued her even though she was a lithe and toned yogini. More than this, she was a light to all she encountered. Furthermore, she had caught the eye, fascination and heart of a true love. Could she dare to dream, to fantasize and realize her long forgotten needs and desires with so desirable a partner for one night? Even a lifetime? The plot of this story did not move quickly in terms of "action". Rather it was a deliberate unfolding of an intensely personal sexual exploration using yoga as an interesting literary device to express feelings, ideas and themes. Having learned all too late the joys of practicing yoga, I truly enjoyed this aspect but could see it giving pause for a select audience. The BDSM was unapologetically portrayed. I also enjoyed this author's presentation of the Dominant/submissive relationship. The dynamics of the relationship made sense to me, although I am sure it is a real fantasy ride upon which this author takes the reader. And OMG...the scene at the club...think swoon worthy and times this by a tenfold hotness factor. One woman...four uhm maybe five hot Dominant beautiful men...one man who devilishly arranged the whole thing is the man ready to swear undying love and fidelity to you. This book actually caused me to dream about a futuristic world of Alpha men and me...well I will leave that for another day. But seriously, I did have the dream. Lastly, along with all the heat and sensuality of the read, the love story between Rachel and Jon does leave an open question for you as a reader. Hopefully you will find your own answer as you read and enjoy this lovely read. Did fate operate on the law of karma or was it Love's mercy that brought the lovers their "Afterlife"; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Defy (Sinners of Saint, #0.5); Author: L.J. Shen; Genres: young-adult, romance; Review: Beyond the Filling of "The Void" Of course this the second of the "Sinners of Saint" book is a deliciously dirty sexy portrait of the "Hothole", Jamie. The author goes so far as to give up the bones of the story... of Jamie's romantic adventure from the perspective of his lover, Melody at the very start of the book. It's what the author makes the reader search for in the details of the game Jamie plays, or for that matter; the game they both are playing, "Defy" that delights the reader both body and soul. I enjoy each and every epigraph that precedes these stories. The quote from "Jane Eyre" suggests that like the protagonist Jane quoted in the epigraph, Melody chooses her inner compass of right and wrong defying conventional wisdom and societal norms. Jamie confides to Melody the reasons for and details of the brutal game of "fight club" that the "Hotholes" stage and play every weekend "Defy". It's a game to fill "the void". Melody realizes that Jamie, the man, fills her void. Their love story turns a brutal game of defiance into a dance of true love. It's the beautiful transformation of these two players and the game itself that is worth every word read. The intimate and honest confessions to each other in the end acknowledge that there is more to life, more worthy goals to defiance than filling a void. There is defiance for love.; Rating: 5.0/5.0 Title: Bishop's Desire (Barnes Family, #3); Author: Normandie Alleman; Genres: romance; Review: There's a difference between "quirky" and unbelievable. very long and deep sigh My personal goal is to always write positively about someone's creation because of the work and bits of self put into finished work. To that end, I will say that the writing in this book is competent and there was a storyline. Beyond this, I felt that this is a poorly researched book which is culturally obtuse and panders to an audience who attributes overly positive value to today's mind numbing cultural icons It's one thing to get an idea of a man in a religious vocation who is an irresistibly Dominating, sexually devastating and emotionally torn over his desires. (This is in my mind a delicious trope for a dark and dirty romance!) It is quite another to get the whole religious culture wrong. Case in point, a Bishop in the Anglican church is one who presides over several churches/parishes. It is not an honorary title accorded to a parish priest. A little simple research would have illuminated this fact for the author. Whether the complete ignorance of the religion in which the main protagonist was ordained can be excused or attributed to artistic license remained in question from the first while I read the book. Please do not get me wrong...I reiterate I believe it is a delectable storyline for the pious to realize the humbling power of love in sexuality no matter the religion. The insta-love of the ahem..."Bishop" was believable but that he would need to marry his love, Chloe before he "did the deed" seemed overly contrived and not authentic to this male character even considering his religious vocation. Previously, he paid Chloe to do a highly sexual "lap dance" on him. On a separate occasion, he penetrated her manually bringing her to climax before he proposed marriage??? Chloe consented to marry him for his money and told him so. She did not love him but she was fully willing to have sex with him. She was a tired "dancer" who claims to know the depth of the depravity of men. How so??? Soooo...as long as HE was in love and they married it was okay in the eyes of God??? Please??? Then...the oh so enlightened ahem..."Bishop" said God gave sex as a gift to man loving woman...tell our gay brothers and sisters this. "'That's because you are missing the fact that God gave us sex. He invented it, and when he did he created the perfect way for a man and a woman to come together, physically, emotionally, even spiritually.'" Okay...so let's say our ahem..."Bishop" Soto is not as enlightened as we thought but he goes on to bemoan the fact that he is not as genetically gifted in height as his half brother who is a professional basketball player. He could not advance beyond playing college basketball because his mother was Hispanic. Really??? So our ahem..."Bishop" Soto is truly not the studied, self-aware and completely God-centered man we thought, okay...but that he found himself and his redemption in the "Barnes Family" makes me; Rating: 3.0/5.0 Title: Until November (Until, #1); Author: Aurora Rose Reynolds; Genres: thriller, crime, fiction, romance, mystery; Review: My Heart Went BOOM! This is a spicy-sweet tale of love and romance that successfully blends all the elements needed for a satisfying experience. The author's style of writing is easy-going and down to earth. The story flowed beautifully even when the plot progression was slower at times. The writing about various and sundry details was just so interesting the reader did not mind the lull in the action. Our heroine, November, was escaping New York City where she had been recently badly mugged. Her life spared because of the heroic actions of a large stray dog, she named Beast. Her distant and self-absorbed mother told her all her life that her father did not want her. When she gathered the courage to call him, she found that nothing could be further from the truth. So with her new uhm..pup in her small car she drove to stay with her father in Tennessee. There she found a loving father and grandmother, a new home and a new job organizing and keeping the books for her father's club. While taking the tour for work she happens upon her gruff Alpha male hero, Asher, who was beautiful in a way that begged to be immortalized in art somehow. "Really, I just want to see him again. I don't really want to talk to him because, truthfully, he's a jerk. But I do want to look at him. He has made me consider taking an art class. Maybe something like body sculpting or painting . It's not normal for a guy to be that beautiful." - November Of course unbeknownst to November, when he saw her, he felt what is legend for the males in the family to feel when they find their one true love, "The Boom". Their relationship starts out with a few hiccups because of misunderstandings resulting from each of their past relationships. Asher has to hold himself back from going too fast. November has to learn to trust after her ex-fiancee hurt her in s cruel a fashion. Their chemistry is written in a lovely, compelling and unapologetically explicit style. Much of the closeness with the characters and joy the reader derives from this relationship comes from these loving erotic embraces and couplings...so very sexy, hot, kindle combustible while at the same time loving and sweet. There is an added element of suspense in the story because someone is threatening November. A stalker that followed her from New York is not out of the question. The resolution to the suspense causes the reader a few moments of anxiety, but overall there is sweet, sweet happiness in the end. The story is like the sweet and tangy BBQ sauce found in Tennessee. If it is what you are craving in a romance then this book fills the bill. One click for a taste.; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: The Starlight Rite; Author: Cherise Sinclair; Genres: paranormal, fantasy, romance, fiction; Review: His "Laria" I drew enormous pleasure from reading this book! This is the first sci-fi alien/human romance I have read and I certainly was fortunate in my choice. Ms. Sinclair creates a brand new galaxy to place her out of this world futuristic tale. A world describing interplanetary travel with the planets colonized by humans eons ago. The book has sort of a frontier flavor with sci fi technology sprinkled in the wild untamed alien city scenery and strange rural landscapes. Of course the "piece de reistance" is the all-consuming, at times, mind blowing sex and sexiness of our main characters with a little BDSM sprinkled in to up the hotness factor. Mella, an "Earther" is a famous intergalactic singer even on the planet upon which she finds herself stranded, incognito, running away from a murderous husband. Dain is a General of the security forces on this planet, Nexus. Mella has the misfortune, or it is more appropriate to say, "good fortune" to end up his sex slave for trying to mug him steal from him while hiding out in the alien city, living on the streets. Dain could not be written any sexier. He is a beautiful tall slender muscled Nexan with stormy grey eyes and dark hair. He is magnificently Dominant, overwhelmingly sexy and principled. Mella is short, measured by " Nexan" standards, softly voluptuous with fiery red hair and soft fair skin. A real contrast to Nexan females who are dark, tall and slender. Of course, her exotic looks to a Nexan eye make her intriguing and a novelty for "coupling". The societies of Earth and Nexus, while vastly different, both involve a paternalistic culture, with neither world seemingly ideal. The society of Earth in which Mella was raised viewed woman as weak, even "sin-infected". There was a "Prophet" who proclaimed sex to be solely for procreation and never for recreation or even communication. This society was entirely male dominated with elders and the like. For me, this was sorely depressing to think after eons, the society remaining on earth would still be this dull, colorless, hierarchical world that put its belief and faith in all things in the hands of some puritanical bastward (my spelling of a familiar word). I know, I know it's fiction. Yet, in societies of our nation and world the fight to throw off the chains of paternalism is a sustained and continuous struggle. I pray for a more equal and democratic society with empowered men and women in the future. (In my view, the only place a man should have permission to dominate a woman is with their woman in the bedroom. This permission should be earned every day with their loving care. Aren't you glad you asked? dY~EUR) Which brings me to the seemingly opposite situation in the "clanae" society of the planet, Nexus. Here hedonism rules the day for many reasons. One of the reasons given in the story is the need for genetic variety. I am not sure how yearly orgies contribute to the the genetic variety? This could've been; Rating: 4.0/5.0 Title: For My Master: A Billionaire Romance; Author: Linnea May; Genres: romance; Review: "Good girl" "'Good girl.' I can feel my heart jumping in joy every time he calls me that. It is so sweet, so rewarding aEUR" and exciting." - Cynthia This author is one of my favorite BDSM writers. She creates and develops emotional tropes that explore how romantic love intersects with the desire for creative, kinkier sex. "For My Master" is one such example. This story involves the personal recognition of Cynthia Storm for her desire to fulfill her sexual fantasy, craving even, for a truly Dominant man. Her need for a job places her in the path of Nathan Jones. The Shibari rope art in beautiful photographs plainly displayed in his office where he conducts the interview for a job for which Cynthia attempts to apply is a clue to his Dominant nature. The attraction between the two of these characters is instant. You could call it "insta-lust". Nathan Jones is a wealthy, business focused man with a devastating appearance of a fit physique in a bespoke suit tailored to delight the female eye. He has hypnotic green eyes dappled with black dots. Oooh swoon my heart!!! Cynthia is not without her charms. She is a beautifully pale, long haired beauty. Most attractive to Nathan is her intelligence and sexual curiosity with a sense of adventure. While a true submissive in the bedroom, she takes charge of her life and resists the lure of the lazy life of a "kept" woman. Nathan holds fast to the idea that a submissive play partner is just that. He believes he cannot even romance this woman, let alone "love" her. Otherwise, he would not be able to deliver the pain pleasure to his partner that he so enjoys giving. Naturally with his strong Dominant tendencies, his "control" of everything in his life takes priority...even control in his sex life. He sets parameters for his relationship with Cynthia to insure there is no romantic attachment on her part and maybe on his part? Now, we as readers instinctively know Nathan has some lessons of the heart to learn. These lessons turn his world around. It is delightful to read about!!! Our Cynthia is a strong woman and she is Nathan's "good girl" in more ways than one. This is a relatively short read with an expansive epilogue. It is so deliciously hot, hawt, hot!!! Ms. May's genius lies in creating intense, beautifully written erotica with dual POVs. It made me think about the energy and focus a true Dominant, a true Master needs in "playing" with or loving his submissive. It is intense and the focus is pleasure for his partner, for his love. This for me is the lure...the delight...ultimately the fantasy of the truly Dominant male. His pleasure is her pleasure. Ooooh! I wanted more. I tend to be a generous rater so I did not let this desire for more cost the author a star in the rating. My endorsement is genuine. This book is so good, you'll ask for more. One click to ignite your desire for "your" master.; Rating: 5.0/5.0	goodreads