Zoe Adams's Blog, page 10
April 14, 2014
New Years Day: Victim to Villain - A Review
To all who are reading this,
Today is my first music review! I'm quite excited about this. They are a band I've been following on Twitter (@NYDRock) for a while, and have finally got around to buying their album, Victim to Villain. The band have toured all around America, with their name splashed upon the Summer Warped Tour. Presented by a Gothic enchantress of a front-woman, I present to you, New Years Day.
The current members of the band compromise of vocalist, Ash Costello, bassist Anthony Barro, drummer Nick Rossi, and guitarists, Nikki Misery and Jake Jones.
Victim to Villain is technically the bands second full length album. It was released through Century Media Records, in June 2013. The following tracks make up the album:
1. Do Your Worst
2. I'm No Good
3. Bloody Mary
4. Victims
5. Hello Darkness
6. Death of the Party
7. The Arsonist
8. Angel Eyes (feat. Chris Motionless)
9. Any Last Words?
10. Tombstone
11. Last Great Love Story
The band's single from the album is 'Angel Eyes', guest starring vocals from Chris Motionless, of Motionless in White. It is a gritty song, full of passion between two people who can't fight their attraction to each other. This comes across greatly during the video, which takes delightfully erotic undertones, entwining with it bloody horror. One of my favourite lines of the song is from Chris' vocals, a gravelly harsh, "You're fucking mine". A line full of possession, lust, captivity. You can check the song out here.
Ash Costello, our enigmatic front-woman, has a lovely tone to her voice. She is pulls her audience in, with sultry tones, and belts out notes and lyrics that have you tapping your feet away. The lyrics are catchy and you want to sing along. The softer tones of 'Tombstone' is a lovely change, as she show's a new side of her personality.
I thoroughly enjoyed the album. It ranges from hard rock tracks to sultry sexy songs. It's an album to make you smile. Sing. Dance and tap your feet. There are songs that would be anthems in a concert, and I can't wait until they tour the UK. I will make it my best to see them live!
Whilst it has been out for nearly a year, I've only just got around to buying it. It can be found on iTunes for £7.99, and it was a very worth while purchase!
If you're in the US at all, the band are currently touring with Combichrist and William Control. They are not to be missed!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Metro 2034 by Dmitry Glukhovsky
Today is my first music review! I'm quite excited about this. They are a band I've been following on Twitter (@NYDRock) for a while, and have finally got around to buying their album, Victim to Villain. The band have toured all around America, with their name splashed upon the Summer Warped Tour. Presented by a Gothic enchantress of a front-woman, I present to you, New Years Day.The current members of the band compromise of vocalist, Ash Costello, bassist Anthony Barro, drummer Nick Rossi, and guitarists, Nikki Misery and Jake Jones.
Victim to Villain is technically the bands second full length album. It was released through Century Media Records, in June 2013. The following tracks make up the album:
1. Do Your Worst
2. I'm No Good
3. Bloody Mary
4. Victims
5. Hello Darkness
6. Death of the Party
7. The Arsonist
8. Angel Eyes (feat. Chris Motionless)
9. Any Last Words?
10. Tombstone
11. Last Great Love Story
The band's single from the album is 'Angel Eyes', guest starring vocals from Chris Motionless, of Motionless in White. It is a gritty song, full of passion between two people who can't fight their attraction to each other. This comes across greatly during the video, which takes delightfully erotic undertones, entwining with it bloody horror. One of my favourite lines of the song is from Chris' vocals, a gravelly harsh, "You're fucking mine". A line full of possession, lust, captivity. You can check the song out here.Ash Costello, our enigmatic front-woman, has a lovely tone to her voice. She is pulls her audience in, with sultry tones, and belts out notes and lyrics that have you tapping your feet away. The lyrics are catchy and you want to sing along. The softer tones of 'Tombstone' is a lovely change, as she show's a new side of her personality.
I thoroughly enjoyed the album. It ranges from hard rock tracks to sultry sexy songs. It's an album to make you smile. Sing. Dance and tap your feet. There are songs that would be anthems in a concert, and I can't wait until they tour the UK. I will make it my best to see them live!
Whilst it has been out for nearly a year, I've only just got around to buying it. It can be found on iTunes for £7.99, and it was a very worth while purchase! If you're in the US at all, the band are currently touring with Combichrist and William Control. They are not to be missed!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Metro 2034 by Dmitry Glukhovsky
April 13, 2014
Cooking With Mama : Lovely Lasagna!
To all who are reading this,We've been busy in the kitchen today, and this is one of my favourite dishes that Mama cooks! And, it is the second recipe of our series!
We present: Lovely Lasagna!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 packet fresh lasagna sheets
- 1 jar of Family Sized white sauce
- 1 jar of Family Sized tomato sauce
- 800g minced beef
- 2 small peppers
- 2 small onions
- Handful of mushrooms
- Grated cheese
- Black pepper (pinch)
METHOD:
1. Chop and fry your vegetables. After they're cooked, place them in a separate bowl for later use.
2. Fry off your minced beef, until the meat is golden brown. Don't forget to drain the fat after cooking - this is really important for the next step!
3. Take your tomato sauce and stir it into the mince. It should cover and coat everything in your pan!
Now, if you're like me and aren't a fan of mushrooms and peppers, there's a perfect way of making your meal to your liking.
OPTION 1:
1. Layer a dish with meat and sauce. Not too much, not too little.
2. Place sheets over the top so it covers the meat.
3. Take your white sauce, and spoon some of it on top of the sheet.
4. Repeat this process three times.
5. Top with grated cheese.
6. Sprinkle with a little black pepper.
Now, if you're like my parents and love your vegetables, there's a perfect way of making your meal to your liking.
OPTION 2:
1. Layer a dish with meat, sauce and the vegetables. Not too much, not too little.
2. Place sheets over the top so it covers the meat.
3. Take your white sauce, and spoon some of it on top of the sheet.
4. Repeat this process three times.
5. Top with grated cheese.
6. Sprinkle with a little black pepper.
For either of these recipes, cook on gas mark 5, for 45 mins.
Serve it with either chips, new potatoes, salad or garlic bread, and your Italian!
Lovely Lasagna selection - freshly cooked
Option 1 Lovely Lasagna with chips
April 10, 2014
Loki: Agent of Asgard: Loki and Lorelei, Sitting In A Tree - A Review
To all who are reading this,
As promised, I have returned with another review from the comic book series, Loki: Agent of Asgard. Al Ewing wrote this issue and was joined by various artists such as Lee Garbett, Nolan Woodward, VC's Clayton Cowles and Jenny Frison. This is the second issue from the series, and it is published by Dan Buckley, through Marvel.
Blurb
Loki vs. Lorelei! It's the battle of the Asgardian younger siblings - from the casinos of Monte Carlo to a speed date in New York! Oh, and Loki goes speed dating.
I started with digital editions, I will continue with digital editions. At £1.99, for instant delivery, and being able to read it straight away, I couldn't help myself and when the release date strolled along, I popped onto the Marvel App and clicked, "Buy". I had no issues with technology this time, so I could jump in and read without hesitation.
The story begins with speed dating. Not my cup of tea, but you never know if you'll find romance or a familiar face at one of these events...
Seen from a female's perspective, we are introduced to Phil. He tells us that this is his first time, even though he's been single for a while. He's told to, "get lost", and we're onto the next one. Steve Sawick, a total "slimeball". A man masquerading as "Ray" barely gets a look in. A young gentleman sits down - and it's Loki! And the reaction: "Sorry, are we -- cosplaying now?" The writers get extra points for that from me!
The title page is beautiful, showing the lovely lady who's turning away these men, seeing them for who they really are. She's classy and sexy, with with long brown tresses, dark thick glasses, a low cut top and sleeve tattoos on both of her arms. It takes several pages for her to reveal her name. I initially thought she was Lorelei, but is in fact, Verity Willis.
Verity has an uncanny ability to tell through lies. She sits around reading about things she knows are true, such as "pure mathematics, programming and physics". A beautiful geek. Yes, there are women like this out there too, and not just in comic book format!
Anyway, enough about Verity, because I'm fangirling slightly and wanting to cosplay her...
Loki doesn't beat around the bush. He introduces himself and explains that his mission is all about Lorelei. The stunning brunette (who looks like she should be part of the X-Men) is the younger sibling of Amora, the Enchantress. She also happens to be Thor and Loki's ex-girlfriend. Three weeks prior to the plot, the All-Mother appears in a bowl of punch, interrupting the preparation for Loki's housewarming party, and asks that he bring Lorelei home, where she truly belongs.
The side plot of Loki's apartment is quite funny. He had to magically shift his place, because everyone thought he was Harry Styles of One Direction. The All-Mother's apparition also sploshes onto the carpet, ruining it.
Paris, France. Loki observes Lorelei in the Louvre. Oh la la! Loki researches in newspapers and the internet, solving Lorelei's plans. She is a con artist and plans elaborate heists.
Where will she strike now?
Why Monte Carlo, and its super-rich casino's obviously! The loot is one billion Euro's in a secure vault. Lorelei enters with two girls, and they are all in fabulous gangsters outfits - floppy hats, catsuits and fur coats. Everyone believes them to be part of a floor show, especially when guns are pulled on them. Using her powers, Lorelei and the girls disappear and are ready to steal the loot.
Things get complicated - an Interpol agent, an Amulet of Invisibility (which is made in Taiwan), and finally, a great moment of Loki cunning. Shapeshifting! He became one of Lorelei's female goons, with dazzling good looks and long black hair. Lady Loki of the earlier Marvel comics was perfect, and this runs along those lines.
Lorelei escapes, and Loki makes use of the loot. When in Monte Carlo...
Verity then reveals her story, and the reader learns that is why Loki has narrated. He's telling her the truth, and in turn, us. It's a clever trick, but it's been done before in film and television.
The last page reunites Loki and Lorelei, but I won't spoil it for you. It's very clever and made me smile and laugh all at the same time!
The artwork is detailed. Verity's tattoos are works of art in themselves and the clever transitions work great within her story. Loki's part is coming out more and more. This is a great thing about Agent of Asgard. It's a new way of bringing in fans, and showing who Loki is. Is he an illusion? Is he a trickster? Does he have a heart? Can he say anything without the use of sarcasm?
I enjoyed this issue greatly. I did read it several times over, as it throws a few tricks the readers way. I speed read, and then read again. This is usually because in a comic book, I want to see the art, appreciate it for what it is, and then read through the story. Words and images make for great storytelling. There's a reason that comic books, graphic novels and manga's have been around for so long!
The third issue came out this month, so watch out for my review, because it'll be coming soon!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Psychonaut by Carmilla Voiez (eBook)
As promised, I have returned with another review from the comic book series, Loki: Agent of Asgard. Al Ewing wrote this issue and was joined by various artists such as Lee Garbett, Nolan Woodward, VC's Clayton Cowles and Jenny Frison. This is the second issue from the series, and it is published by Dan Buckley, through Marvel.
Blurb
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Loki vs. Lorelei! It's the battle of the Asgardian younger siblings - from the casinos of Monte Carlo to a speed date in New York! Oh, and Loki goes speed dating.I started with digital editions, I will continue with digital editions. At £1.99, for instant delivery, and being able to read it straight away, I couldn't help myself and when the release date strolled along, I popped onto the Marvel App and clicked, "Buy". I had no issues with technology this time, so I could jump in and read without hesitation.
The story begins with speed dating. Not my cup of tea, but you never know if you'll find romance or a familiar face at one of these events...
Seen from a female's perspective, we are introduced to Phil. He tells us that this is his first time, even though he's been single for a while. He's told to, "get lost", and we're onto the next one. Steve Sawick, a total "slimeball". A man masquerading as "Ray" barely gets a look in. A young gentleman sits down - and it's Loki! And the reaction: "Sorry, are we -- cosplaying now?" The writers get extra points for that from me!
The title page is beautiful, showing the lovely lady who's turning away these men, seeing them for who they really are. She's classy and sexy, with with long brown tresses, dark thick glasses, a low cut top and sleeve tattoos on both of her arms. It takes several pages for her to reveal her name. I initially thought she was Lorelei, but is in fact, Verity Willis.
Verity has an uncanny ability to tell through lies. She sits around reading about things she knows are true, such as "pure mathematics, programming and physics". A beautiful geek. Yes, there are women like this out there too, and not just in comic book format!
Anyway, enough about Verity, because I'm fangirling slightly and wanting to cosplay her...
Loki doesn't beat around the bush. He introduces himself and explains that his mission is all about Lorelei. The stunning brunette (who looks like she should be part of the X-Men) is the younger sibling of Amora, the Enchantress. She also happens to be Thor and Loki's ex-girlfriend. Three weeks prior to the plot, the All-Mother appears in a bowl of punch, interrupting the preparation for Loki's housewarming party, and asks that he bring Lorelei home, where she truly belongs.
The side plot of Loki's apartment is quite funny. He had to magically shift his place, because everyone thought he was Harry Styles of One Direction. The All-Mother's apparition also sploshes onto the carpet, ruining it.
Paris, France. Loki observes Lorelei in the Louvre. Oh la la! Loki researches in newspapers and the internet, solving Lorelei's plans. She is a con artist and plans elaborate heists.
Where will she strike now?
Why Monte Carlo, and its super-rich casino's obviously! The loot is one billion Euro's in a secure vault. Lorelei enters with two girls, and they are all in fabulous gangsters outfits - floppy hats, catsuits and fur coats. Everyone believes them to be part of a floor show, especially when guns are pulled on them. Using her powers, Lorelei and the girls disappear and are ready to steal the loot.
Things get complicated - an Interpol agent, an Amulet of Invisibility (which is made in Taiwan), and finally, a great moment of Loki cunning. Shapeshifting! He became one of Lorelei's female goons, with dazzling good looks and long black hair. Lady Loki of the earlier Marvel comics was perfect, and this runs along those lines.
Lorelei escapes, and Loki makes use of the loot. When in Monte Carlo...
Verity then reveals her story, and the reader learns that is why Loki has narrated. He's telling her the truth, and in turn, us. It's a clever trick, but it's been done before in film and television.
The last page reunites Loki and Lorelei, but I won't spoil it for you. It's very clever and made me smile and laugh all at the same time!
The artwork is detailed. Verity's tattoos are works of art in themselves and the clever transitions work great within her story. Loki's part is coming out more and more. This is a great thing about Agent of Asgard. It's a new way of bringing in fans, and showing who Loki is. Is he an illusion? Is he a trickster? Does he have a heart? Can he say anything without the use of sarcasm?
I enjoyed this issue greatly. I did read it several times over, as it throws a few tricks the readers way. I speed read, and then read again. This is usually because in a comic book, I want to see the art, appreciate it for what it is, and then read through the story. Words and images make for great storytelling. There's a reason that comic books, graphic novels and manga's have been around for so long!
The third issue came out this month, so watch out for my review, because it'll be coming soon!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Psychonaut by Carmilla Voiez (eBook)
April 7, 2014
American Horror Story: Murder House - A Review
To all who are reading this,
I present to you today an addictive and chilling review, full of delicious twists, love, sex and murderous revenge. Twelve episodes of stylish psychosexual hauntings. I can only be talking about American Horror Story: Murder House (2011).
AHS: Murder House is the first season of the new horror drama, drawing on the theme of infidelity. It drew in many actors such as Jessica Lange and Zachary Quinto. The show left viewers confused, shocked, horrified and wanting more as each episode finished! I didn't see it on it's original air date, but waited until the DVD edition, when I received the first and second series in a collectors edition from my partner for Christmas 2013.
Taking place in 2011, we meet the Harmon family: Ben (Dylan McDermott), his wife Vivien (Connie Britton), and their teenage daughter Violet (Taissa Farmiga). The family move to Boston from LA, after Vivien miscarries, and Ben has an affair with one of his students. The Harmons move into a restored mansion and learn that gay couple Chad and Patrick (Zachary Quinto and Teddy Sears) were the last occupants and were victims of a murder-suicide. As they slowly come to terms with their new life and home, the Harmon's meet former residents, the Langdons: Constance (Jessica Lange), and her two children, Tate (Evan Peters) and Down's Syndrome suffering Addie (Jamie Brewer), and disfigured Larry Harvey (Denis O'Hare). Ben and Vivien try and rekindle what remains of their relationship, whilst Violet, who succumbs to depression, finds comfort with Tate. Slowly, the family learn that their home is haunted by the ghosts of those people who have died on the property.
The episodes of the series are:
- Pilot
- Home Invasion
- Murder House
- Halloween Pt 1
- Halloween Pt 2
- Piggy, Piggy
- Open House
- Rubber Man
- Spooky Little Girl
- Smouldering Children
- Birth
- Afterbirth
Each story has a subplot relating to the murders that transpired within the (now) Harmon family home. An example would be 'Home Invasion', where in the past a man breaks into the home and murders two nursing students. In the present, three enthusiasts break in and try to replicate the murders, using Vivien and Violet.
The underlying story continues. A family is trying to return to normality and carry on with their lives, but sadly the supernatural forces will not let up. Whilst others may be horrified at some of the scenes that play out, I felt it was a well thought outlook on life. Affairs happen. Babies are born, and babies may die. Couples try and enhance their sexual life. People suffer with depression.
Throwing ghosts into the mix was the perfect addition. Whilst it's an obvious supernatural twist to put on programmes such as this, it was done cleverly. There was no expressive, "I'm a ghost, woo", dialogue. It was scripted to make people believe the characters were just normal folk or as normal as it is possibly to be. It is only when we see what has transpired years earlier that we realise what is actually happening...
A personal favourite episode/s for me were 'Halloween Pt 1' and 'Halloween Pt 2'. Maybe it's because I love Halloween, who knows?
It's 2010 and we are with the previous owners. Chad is decorating for the holiday season, whilst Patrick is preparing to go to the gym. The couple argue - about selling the house, Chad's controlling unloving side of the relationship, Patrick's infidelities and the idea of the two of them starting a family. We witness what truly happens to them - a suited Rubber Man (which in reality is a BDSM gimp costume) snaps Chad's neck, before moving on to kill Patrick. We later find out he was beaten and sodomized with a fire poker. The Rubber Man positioned the bodies so it would appear to be a murder-suicide.
One year on, Chad and Patrick re-enter their home. Vivien believes them to be "fluffers" (decorators who are brought in to help sales of the house). Chad begins his Halloween decoration all over again - even going as far as to get the same apples for the bobbing bucket that he had used in 2010. He senses the tension between the couple and urges Vivien to find out if Ben is lying to her, as Patrick lied to him. Finally, Chad reaches breaking point when he sees Vivien and Ben's poor costume choices, which fall below his own standards, and demands that they leave the house. The episodes continue revealing more goodies about the various other characters. As the episode draws to a close, Chad and Patrick are seen returning to the house, confined to their place of death, stuck in the same problems they experienced in life.
With these episodes come one of my favourite quotes from Chad. I don't know why I like it, especially when there are a plethora of quotes to choose from (Addie's proclamation that she wants to be 'a pretty girl' is heartbreaking, and I feel her pain).
"I am trying here! I am trying to make this place warm and inviting and spectacular and have this Halloween party shot by Elle friggin Decor so someone will see it and step in and take this place of our hands, and then I can feel free to fall in love with a 25-year-old who has great biceps. So get off my back, carve a goddamn pumpkin, go get a goddamn costume, and man up!" - Chad, AHS: Murder House (Halloween Pt 1)
I don't want to spoil the rest of the series for you. All I can say is watch it. I loved every second of it, but then again I like twisted horror. It's the kind of show where you curl up on the sofa with a drink, some snacks and absorb the action that unfurls. The cast work together so well, and they are the perfect choices for the characters.
AHS: Asylum is the second series and once I have seen all of it, I'll be giving you a review! So watch out, and if things move in the night, then someone has probably died in your house and is trying to scare you into leaving. No biggie.
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Poison Princess by Kresley Cole
I present to you today an addictive and chilling review, full of delicious twists, love, sex and murderous revenge. Twelve episodes of stylish psychosexual hauntings. I can only be talking about American Horror Story: Murder House (2011).
AHS: Murder House is the first season of the new horror drama, drawing on the theme of infidelity. It drew in many actors such as Jessica Lange and Zachary Quinto. The show left viewers confused, shocked, horrified and wanting more as each episode finished! I didn't see it on it's original air date, but waited until the DVD edition, when I received the first and second series in a collectors edition from my partner for Christmas 2013.
Taking place in 2011, we meet the Harmon family: Ben (Dylan McDermott), his wife Vivien (Connie Britton), and their teenage daughter Violet (Taissa Farmiga). The family move to Boston from LA, after Vivien miscarries, and Ben has an affair with one of his students. The Harmons move into a restored mansion and learn that gay couple Chad and Patrick (Zachary Quinto and Teddy Sears) were the last occupants and were victims of a murder-suicide. As they slowly come to terms with their new life and home, the Harmon's meet former residents, the Langdons: Constance (Jessica Lange), and her two children, Tate (Evan Peters) and Down's Syndrome suffering Addie (Jamie Brewer), and disfigured Larry Harvey (Denis O'Hare). Ben and Vivien try and rekindle what remains of their relationship, whilst Violet, who succumbs to depression, finds comfort with Tate. Slowly, the family learn that their home is haunted by the ghosts of those people who have died on the property.The episodes of the series are:
- Pilot
- Home Invasion
- Murder House
- Halloween Pt 1
- Halloween Pt 2
- Piggy, Piggy
- Open House
- Rubber Man
- Spooky Little Girl
- Smouldering Children
- Birth
- Afterbirth
Each story has a subplot relating to the murders that transpired within the (now) Harmon family home. An example would be 'Home Invasion', where in the past a man breaks into the home and murders two nursing students. In the present, three enthusiasts break in and try to replicate the murders, using Vivien and Violet.
The underlying story continues. A family is trying to return to normality and carry on with their lives, but sadly the supernatural forces will not let up. Whilst others may be horrified at some of the scenes that play out, I felt it was a well thought outlook on life. Affairs happen. Babies are born, and babies may die. Couples try and enhance their sexual life. People suffer with depression.
Throwing ghosts into the mix was the perfect addition. Whilst it's an obvious supernatural twist to put on programmes such as this, it was done cleverly. There was no expressive, "I'm a ghost, woo", dialogue. It was scripted to make people believe the characters were just normal folk or as normal as it is possibly to be. It is only when we see what has transpired years earlier that we realise what is actually happening...
A personal favourite episode/s for me were 'Halloween Pt 1' and 'Halloween Pt 2'. Maybe it's because I love Halloween, who knows?
It's 2010 and we are with the previous owners. Chad is decorating for the holiday season, whilst Patrick is preparing to go to the gym. The couple argue - about selling the house, Chad's controlling unloving side of the relationship, Patrick's infidelities and the idea of the two of them starting a family. We witness what truly happens to them - a suited Rubber Man (which in reality is a BDSM gimp costume) snaps Chad's neck, before moving on to kill Patrick. We later find out he was beaten and sodomized with a fire poker. The Rubber Man positioned the bodies so it would appear to be a murder-suicide.
One year on, Chad and Patrick re-enter their home. Vivien believes them to be "fluffers" (decorators who are brought in to help sales of the house). Chad begins his Halloween decoration all over again - even going as far as to get the same apples for the bobbing bucket that he had used in 2010. He senses the tension between the couple and urges Vivien to find out if Ben is lying to her, as Patrick lied to him. Finally, Chad reaches breaking point when he sees Vivien and Ben's poor costume choices, which fall below his own standards, and demands that they leave the house. The episodes continue revealing more goodies about the various other characters. As the episode draws to a close, Chad and Patrick are seen returning to the house, confined to their place of death, stuck in the same problems they experienced in life.
With these episodes come one of my favourite quotes from Chad. I don't know why I like it, especially when there are a plethora of quotes to choose from (Addie's proclamation that she wants to be 'a pretty girl' is heartbreaking, and I feel her pain).
"I am trying here! I am trying to make this place warm and inviting and spectacular and have this Halloween party shot by Elle friggin Decor so someone will see it and step in and take this place of our hands, and then I can feel free to fall in love with a 25-year-old who has great biceps. So get off my back, carve a goddamn pumpkin, go get a goddamn costume, and man up!" - Chad, AHS: Murder House (Halloween Pt 1)
I don't want to spoil the rest of the series for you. All I can say is watch it. I loved every second of it, but then again I like twisted horror. It's the kind of show where you curl up on the sofa with a drink, some snacks and absorb the action that unfurls. The cast work together so well, and they are the perfect choices for the characters.
AHS: Asylum is the second series and once I have seen all of it, I'll be giving you a review! So watch out, and if things move in the night, then someone has probably died in your house and is trying to scare you into leaving. No biggie.
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Poison Princess by Kresley Cole
April 6, 2014
Loki: Agent of Asgard: Trust Me - A Review
To all who are reading this,
We have nearly approached the monthly mark in which I haven't blogged, which is quite startling to think about! But never fear, because I am back and I am treating you to a review of a comic book that I just had to get. It made me laugh, made me Marvel (wink wink) and be a general fangirl.
I give you, Loki: Agent of Asgard in Trust Me. Al Ewing wrote this issue and was joined by various artists such as Lee Garbett, Nolan Woodward, VC's Clayton Cowles and Jenny Frison. This is the first issue in the series, and it is published by Dan Buckley, through Marvel.
Blurb
Kid Loki's all grown up - and the God of Mischief is stronger, smarter, sexier and just plain sneakier than ever before. As Asgardia's one-man secret service, he's ready to lie, cheat, steal, bluff and snog his way through the twistiest, turniest and most treacherous missions the All-Mother can throw at him...
I will be the first to admit, I became a fangirl after watching Thor (2011), when the Trickster God was played by the delightful actor, Tom Hiddleston. He brought something new to the screen, and came back for the successful films, The Avengers (2012) and Thor: The Dark World (2013), in which he dominated the film and stole the screen time from Chris Hemsworth.
After searching for more Loki goodness online, I stumbled across the news on Tumblr that Loki was being re-envisioned in a new series of comic books called Agent of Asgard. I was amazed and fascinated, and found the write up such a treat, which you can find for yourself here.
I eagerly awaited the release date. At first, I was outraged when I couldn't get a paperback edition. I was being forced to get a digital issue. Yes, it's just as cheap and has fast delivery straight to your tablet/mobile phone, but I wanted the real thing. I'm determined to get it when, and if, it comes out in a collection.
I bought Agent of Asgard from the official online store for £1.99. I then had to download the Marvel E-Reader app onto my iPad and play around with the settings for a good thirty minutes before I was actually able to read my comic book. It was a farce to say the least, but eventually, the comic downloaded, enlarged, opened, and I flung myself into the story. It's only 24 pages, and a quick read, but full of action, a good story-line and artwork everyone can appreciate.
I was amazed by the art - it's simply stunning. The first page of the comic book features Loki and Thor in an epic battle, with Loki's thought processes in green and gold speech panels (his signature colours). We are left thinking, "Why?" Of course, we have to read on to find out.
After a page of introductions to the cast and creatives, we have... Loki. In a shower. Singing a parody of 'The Wizard and I' from the Broadway and West-End sensation, Wicked. His singing is interrupted by a visit from the All-Mother - Gaea, Freyja and Idunn. They give Loki a mission, and off we set.
Loki's thoughts act as our narration, which is funny and downright cocky. I'm instantly reminded of Hiddleston, so please forgive me readers.
Loki ascends the Avengers Tower, where we find Thor (drinking), Captain America and Iron Man (sparring), Hawkeye and Black Widow (relaxing) and Bruce Banner, AKA The Hulk, working. Thor senses his adopted brother and immediately engages him in battle. Loki relays to his readers how using magic there and then, would not have made a good story, and so we continue. Poor Loki is damaged, shouted at and plagued by the Avengers, before he sneaks away, hacks into their database, and the internet. He is caught once more, with Thor promising to kill him.
Remember that battle page I mentioned earlier. Well, we reach that point of the story, and learn Loki's mission. To take the corruption that resides in Thor's heart from Malekith's touch (as Marvel tell us, Behold the epic tale in Thor: God of Thunder #13 -17!). Those who remember too, Malekith was the villain from The Dark World, played by Christopher Eccleston (the Ninth Doctor of Doctor Who).
Loki is successful in his mission and returns to the All-Mother. It becomes a 'convoluted meeting' (Loki's words, not mine) as he shifts form and wishes to 'talk about the future'.
Agent of Asgard is a great start to a series. We learn more about Loki, and if you're not clued up on his story from the original comic books, then it's a perfect introduction. Funny, brutal, with amazing artwork, I was thoroughly impressed and eagerly awaited the second issue. Which I will be reviewing sometime in the week!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Poison Princess by Kresley Cole
We have nearly approached the monthly mark in which I haven't blogged, which is quite startling to think about! But never fear, because I am back and I am treating you to a review of a comic book that I just had to get. It made me laugh, made me Marvel (wink wink) and be a general fangirl.
I give you, Loki: Agent of Asgard in Trust Me. Al Ewing wrote this issue and was joined by various artists such as Lee Garbett, Nolan Woodward, VC's Clayton Cowles and Jenny Frison. This is the first issue in the series, and it is published by Dan Buckley, through Marvel.
Blurb
Kid Loki's all grown up - and the God of Mischief is stronger, smarter, sexier and just plain sneakier than ever before. As Asgardia's one-man secret service, he's ready to lie, cheat, steal, bluff and snog his way through the twistiest, turniest and most treacherous missions the All-Mother can throw at him...I will be the first to admit, I became a fangirl after watching Thor (2011), when the Trickster God was played by the delightful actor, Tom Hiddleston. He brought something new to the screen, and came back for the successful films, The Avengers (2012) and Thor: The Dark World (2013), in which he dominated the film and stole the screen time from Chris Hemsworth.
After searching for more Loki goodness online, I stumbled across the news on Tumblr that Loki was being re-envisioned in a new series of comic books called Agent of Asgard. I was amazed and fascinated, and found the write up such a treat, which you can find for yourself here.
I eagerly awaited the release date. At first, I was outraged when I couldn't get a paperback edition. I was being forced to get a digital issue. Yes, it's just as cheap and has fast delivery straight to your tablet/mobile phone, but I wanted the real thing. I'm determined to get it when, and if, it comes out in a collection.
I bought Agent of Asgard from the official online store for £1.99. I then had to download the Marvel E-Reader app onto my iPad and play around with the settings for a good thirty minutes before I was actually able to read my comic book. It was a farce to say the least, but eventually, the comic downloaded, enlarged, opened, and I flung myself into the story. It's only 24 pages, and a quick read, but full of action, a good story-line and artwork everyone can appreciate.
I was amazed by the art - it's simply stunning. The first page of the comic book features Loki and Thor in an epic battle, with Loki's thought processes in green and gold speech panels (his signature colours). We are left thinking, "Why?" Of course, we have to read on to find out.
After a page of introductions to the cast and creatives, we have... Loki. In a shower. Singing a parody of 'The Wizard and I' from the Broadway and West-End sensation, Wicked. His singing is interrupted by a visit from the All-Mother - Gaea, Freyja and Idunn. They give Loki a mission, and off we set.
Loki's thoughts act as our narration, which is funny and downright cocky. I'm instantly reminded of Hiddleston, so please forgive me readers.
Loki ascends the Avengers Tower, where we find Thor (drinking), Captain America and Iron Man (sparring), Hawkeye and Black Widow (relaxing) and Bruce Banner, AKA The Hulk, working. Thor senses his adopted brother and immediately engages him in battle. Loki relays to his readers how using magic there and then, would not have made a good story, and so we continue. Poor Loki is damaged, shouted at and plagued by the Avengers, before he sneaks away, hacks into their database, and the internet. He is caught once more, with Thor promising to kill him.
Remember that battle page I mentioned earlier. Well, we reach that point of the story, and learn Loki's mission. To take the corruption that resides in Thor's heart from Malekith's touch (as Marvel tell us, Behold the epic tale in Thor: God of Thunder #13 -17!). Those who remember too, Malekith was the villain from The Dark World, played by Christopher Eccleston (the Ninth Doctor of Doctor Who).
Loki is successful in his mission and returns to the All-Mother. It becomes a 'convoluted meeting' (Loki's words, not mine) as he shifts form and wishes to 'talk about the future'.
Agent of Asgard is a great start to a series. We learn more about Loki, and if you're not clued up on his story from the original comic books, then it's a perfect introduction. Funny, brutal, with amazing artwork, I was thoroughly impressed and eagerly awaited the second issue. Which I will be reviewing sometime in the week!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Poison Princess by Kresley Cole
March 9, 2014
Cooking With Mama : Thrown Together Quiche
To all who are reading this,
This is the first post of March. And as such, it's a rather special one. I'm introducing a new concept to the blog, which I'm really excited about and I hope you will be too!
I'm introducing a COOKING WITH MAMA section, in which my mother and I cook and share the recipe with you. Now, some of you who who know me, will know that my mother has a nickname. And that is, Moominmama. Which is where we get the name COOKING WITH MAMA. Our logo is from the Tove Jansson illustration, the woman who created The Moomins. It's really apt, and we've included our banner with a little splash of colour! We don't think it's bad at all.
Our first recipe is: Thrown Together Quiche. Enjoy!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 oz self raising flour
- 1 oz lard
- 1 oz margarine
- Pinch of salt
- 6 - 8 teaspoons cold water
- Bacon (smoked or unsmoked, however much you desire)
- Grated cheese (we've used Red Leicester, and it wasn't much)
- 3 medium eggs
- 1/2 pint of milk (we've chosen semi skimmed)
- Onion (however much you desire - optional filling)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- Pinch of oregano
METHOD:
1. Mix flour and salt together in a bowl. Rub in the lard and margarine to create your pastry for the bottom and sides of your quiche.
2. Add your water, slowly mixing to form a paste like dough.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured worktop, and roll out. It should cover the dish which you are baking the quiche in.
4. Fit and trim the pastry, pricking the bottom lightly.
5. We are blind baking our pastry. Cover with foil, and pop into an oven at gas mark 5, for 15 mins. After the allotted time, remove from oven, and check the pastry. If it is not cooked all the way, pop it back in for a further 5 mins. Once cooked, it's ready to be filled.
6. Slice your bacon into small pieces and finely chop your onion. Fry them together, with a little oil, so they are cooked through.
7. Beat your milk, eggs, salt and pepper together to create the filling.
8. To your cooked case, pop in the fried bacon and onion. Once they're evenly distributed, pour in your egg mix so it covers your filling.
9. Sprinkle a pinch of oregano and grated cheese onto the top.
10. Bake in the oven at gas mark 5, for 40 - 45 mins until set.
Thrown Together Quiche
This is the first post of March. And as such, it's a rather special one. I'm introducing a new concept to the blog, which I'm really excited about and I hope you will be too!
I'm introducing a COOKING WITH MAMA section, in which my mother and I cook and share the recipe with you. Now, some of you who who know me, will know that my mother has a nickname. And that is, Moominmama. Which is where we get the name COOKING WITH MAMA. Our logo is from the Tove Jansson illustration, the woman who created The Moomins. It's really apt, and we've included our banner with a little splash of colour! We don't think it's bad at all.Our first recipe is: Thrown Together Quiche. Enjoy!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 oz self raising flour
- 1 oz lard
- 1 oz margarine
- Pinch of salt
- 6 - 8 teaspoons cold water
- Bacon (smoked or unsmoked, however much you desire)
- Grated cheese (we've used Red Leicester, and it wasn't much)
- 3 medium eggs
- 1/2 pint of milk (we've chosen semi skimmed)
- Onion (however much you desire - optional filling)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- Pinch of oregano
METHOD:
1. Mix flour and salt together in a bowl. Rub in the lard and margarine to create your pastry for the bottom and sides of your quiche.
2. Add your water, slowly mixing to form a paste like dough.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured worktop, and roll out. It should cover the dish which you are baking the quiche in.
4. Fit and trim the pastry, pricking the bottom lightly.
5. We are blind baking our pastry. Cover with foil, and pop into an oven at gas mark 5, for 15 mins. After the allotted time, remove from oven, and check the pastry. If it is not cooked all the way, pop it back in for a further 5 mins. Once cooked, it's ready to be filled.
6. Slice your bacon into small pieces and finely chop your onion. Fry them together, with a little oil, so they are cooked through.
7. Beat your milk, eggs, salt and pepper together to create the filling.
8. To your cooked case, pop in the fried bacon and onion. Once they're evenly distributed, pour in your egg mix so it covers your filling.
9. Sprinkle a pinch of oregano and grated cheese onto the top.
10. Bake in the oven at gas mark 5, for 40 - 45 mins until set.
Thrown Together Quiche
February 12, 2014
Circus of Horrors - Come one, come all!
To all who are reading this,
I've never been a fan of circuses. When it comes to clowns, I won't be running for a hug. You don't know who it is under the make-up, or what they are capable of. It's something which has always freaked me out, ever since I was a kid. And I just plainly hate seeing animals in such conditions - to me, it's wrong and I'd never condone it.
Yet, hypocritically, I wrote a short story about a young woman who enters an old circus and finds a snake shape-shifter boy, entitled Break In, after the popular Halestorm song. You can find it in this anthology from Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing here.
I also watched the independent film, The Devil's Carnival, created by the same producer and director behind Repo! The Genetic Opera. The film circles three lost souls and their connection to Aesop's Fables, and I was amazed.
So it was trepidation and knots in my stomach that I watched a trailer for a stage show entitled, Circus of Horrors: London After Midnight, which is celebrating it's eighteenth anniversary! My partner thought I might be able to get through it in one piece, and so we booked the tickets for the 10th of Feb, at our local auditorium.
We entered our venue and were greeted by scantily clad women in lacy costumes and wonderful make-up. There was a little boy dressed as a vampire too - it was very cute, in comparison to the naughty ladies. It wasn't until purchasing a brochure, that we realised that they were part of the show - in turn I had interacted with Zoe Oliver Ellis aka Pandemonia and Anastasia IV aka Hairculian Diva.
We got our seats - the second row from the stage in the stalls and prepared ourselves for the spectacle about to unfurl. The lights cut out, screams were heard and freaks were unleashed onto the stage, live music pumping out. They walked alongside the aisles, which I was amazed and scared of. Further along our row, a head bandaged freak climbed through the crowds - I would have screamed had a priest not throw Holy Water on me at that precise moment...
London After Midnight takes the audience on a journey through five London landmarks in 1665/6, revealing its seedy secrets as the show unfolds. The Plague and it's Doctors are unleashed upon the world, bringing Nosferatu with it. We are taken into Bedlam, and the Bloody Tower.The Southbank and Burial Ground follow, before St Magnus the Martyr survives The Great Fire.
Here is a list of the performers we witnessed - the show cannot be contained in just one blog post and I feel I am not doing it justice!
- Dr Haze: Undead Ringmaster. Ringmaster speaks for itself. Performing, presenting - he does it all!
With Dr Haze- Pandemonia. Glamorous assistant, performer, singer, dancer. Closes the show with a lovely bright song!
- Dynamo Dan. Strong dwarf. Has a habit of attaching Henry Hoover's to his genitals, which I had seen enough of.
- The Warriors. Acrobats of amazing capabilities!
- Hairculian Diva. Glamorous assistant, singer, dancer, pulls and swings by the hair - during one number she spins out into the crowd by her hair, with pyrotechnics coming from her hips!
- Hannibal Hellmurto the Sword Swallowing Tattooed Punk. Dangles objects things by the nose, swallows multiple swords, fantastic artwork on his body, lots of piercings, and has broken ribs. Oh and he has a forked tongue.
- The Sinister Sisters. Acrobats and dancers of the ribbons. Visually stunning.
- Camp Dracula. A very camp Dracula. He is hysterical and haunts the audience, hamming it up and assisting the acts.
- Knife Wielding Axe Man. The name speaks for itself. Loves to set these on fire!
- A Knife Throwers Assistant. The name speaks for itself. Very sexy.
- Michaela the Mad & Jesuit Sergei Valantino. A balancing act of epic proportions. From pointed blades on the forehead, to aerial acrobatics, it is amazing to watch.
- Twisted Vitali. A young contortionist who commands not only the stage, but the audience.
- The Interceptors from Hell. House band, who look like they are from the Eighties - I'm not complaining!
I have seen things I never imagined I would see. The acts were immense - aerial spectacles which had my eyes popping from my skull, Hannibal's act intriguing me to depths I didn't imagine, keeping eye contact with a contortionist who had made me feel slightly nauseous.
With Hannibal HellmurtoThere is an interval, but the show continues on straight away, and kept me engaged all the way. I would see it again in a heartbeat. It's hardly a freak show, as some would deem it, but there are moments you think, "No freaking way!"
I was very lucky to speak to several members of the show afterwards, and as you can see I met two of the acts. I also spoke with Captain Dan, but he was unable to get in a photograph, as the show had to be unpacked. They were all ever so friendly and are as human as anyone would expect.
The Circus of Horrors contains some nudity and language of an adult nature. It is not suitable for the squeamish or with nervous dispositions. Or children, sissies or chavs. This show contains nuts - seriously. Due to the dangerous nature of the performances, individual acts may sometimes change. And of course do not try this at home!
You can check out a taster of what I experienced here!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Autodrome by Kim Lakin-Smith
I've never been a fan of circuses. When it comes to clowns, I won't be running for a hug. You don't know who it is under the make-up, or what they are capable of. It's something which has always freaked me out, ever since I was a kid. And I just plainly hate seeing animals in such conditions - to me, it's wrong and I'd never condone it.
Yet, hypocritically, I wrote a short story about a young woman who enters an old circus and finds a snake shape-shifter boy, entitled Break In, after the popular Halestorm song. You can find it in this anthology from Crushing Hearts and Black Butterfly Publishing here.
I also watched the independent film, The Devil's Carnival, created by the same producer and director behind Repo! The Genetic Opera. The film circles three lost souls and their connection to Aesop's Fables, and I was amazed.
So it was trepidation and knots in my stomach that I watched a trailer for a stage show entitled, Circus of Horrors: London After Midnight, which is celebrating it's eighteenth anniversary! My partner thought I might be able to get through it in one piece, and so we booked the tickets for the 10th of Feb, at our local auditorium.We entered our venue and were greeted by scantily clad women in lacy costumes and wonderful make-up. There was a little boy dressed as a vampire too - it was very cute, in comparison to the naughty ladies. It wasn't until purchasing a brochure, that we realised that they were part of the show - in turn I had interacted with Zoe Oliver Ellis aka Pandemonia and Anastasia IV aka Hairculian Diva.
We got our seats - the second row from the stage in the stalls and prepared ourselves for the spectacle about to unfurl. The lights cut out, screams were heard and freaks were unleashed onto the stage, live music pumping out. They walked alongside the aisles, which I was amazed and scared of. Further along our row, a head bandaged freak climbed through the crowds - I would have screamed had a priest not throw Holy Water on me at that precise moment...
London After Midnight takes the audience on a journey through five London landmarks in 1665/6, revealing its seedy secrets as the show unfolds. The Plague and it's Doctors are unleashed upon the world, bringing Nosferatu with it. We are taken into Bedlam, and the Bloody Tower.The Southbank and Burial Ground follow, before St Magnus the Martyr survives The Great Fire.
Here is a list of the performers we witnessed - the show cannot be contained in just one blog post and I feel I am not doing it justice!
- Dr Haze: Undead Ringmaster. Ringmaster speaks for itself. Performing, presenting - he does it all!
With Dr Haze- Pandemonia. Glamorous assistant, performer, singer, dancer. Closes the show with a lovely bright song!- Dynamo Dan. Strong dwarf. Has a habit of attaching Henry Hoover's to his genitals, which I had seen enough of.
- The Warriors. Acrobats of amazing capabilities!
- Hairculian Diva. Glamorous assistant, singer, dancer, pulls and swings by the hair - during one number she spins out into the crowd by her hair, with pyrotechnics coming from her hips!
- Hannibal Hellmurto the Sword Swallowing Tattooed Punk. Dangles objects things by the nose, swallows multiple swords, fantastic artwork on his body, lots of piercings, and has broken ribs. Oh and he has a forked tongue.
- The Sinister Sisters. Acrobats and dancers of the ribbons. Visually stunning.
- Camp Dracula. A very camp Dracula. He is hysterical and haunts the audience, hamming it up and assisting the acts.
- Knife Wielding Axe Man. The name speaks for itself. Loves to set these on fire!
- A Knife Throwers Assistant. The name speaks for itself. Very sexy.
- Michaela the Mad & Jesuit Sergei Valantino. A balancing act of epic proportions. From pointed blades on the forehead, to aerial acrobatics, it is amazing to watch.
- Twisted Vitali. A young contortionist who commands not only the stage, but the audience.
- The Interceptors from Hell. House band, who look like they are from the Eighties - I'm not complaining!
I have seen things I never imagined I would see. The acts were immense - aerial spectacles which had my eyes popping from my skull, Hannibal's act intriguing me to depths I didn't imagine, keeping eye contact with a contortionist who had made me feel slightly nauseous.
With Hannibal HellmurtoThere is an interval, but the show continues on straight away, and kept me engaged all the way. I would see it again in a heartbeat. It's hardly a freak show, as some would deem it, but there are moments you think, "No freaking way!"I was very lucky to speak to several members of the show afterwards, and as you can see I met two of the acts. I also spoke with Captain Dan, but he was unable to get in a photograph, as the show had to be unpacked. They were all ever so friendly and are as human as anyone would expect.
The Circus of Horrors contains some nudity and language of an adult nature. It is not suitable for the squeamish or with nervous dispositions. Or children, sissies or chavs. This show contains nuts - seriously. Due to the dangerous nature of the performances, individual acts may sometimes change. And of course do not try this at home!
You can check out a taster of what I experienced here!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Autodrome by Kim Lakin-Smith
February 7, 2014
The Fault In Our Stars - A Review
To all who are reading this,
Another review for you! Today, I review a book which essentially broke my heart, made me cry and think until I gave myself a headache.
I give you, The Fault In Our Stars by John Green. This is a standalone book, published by Dutton Books.
Blurb
Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel's story is about to be completely rewritten.
Now, I had heard good things about the author. He is a bestseller on Amazon, Waterstones and generally the world. He is stalked by millions of fans on the social networks Twitter and Tumblr, where he regularly interacts with his fans. The cover I found interesting, but I didn't feel it was my type of book, so I pushed it aside and read others.
It was only when I was recommended the book by a dear friend that I decided I would. Using a gift card from Waterstones, I picked it up the last time I went to town. I made sure it was the original cover, read the blurb, discovered it was Young Adult, and into the shopping bag it went. It was a few weeks before I picked it up - I battled my way through some library books and a vampire novel I had kept meaning to read, but once I started, I could not put it down. And I mean that - the book even went in my handbag to the shops! Now, I read fast, but it never detracts from the feeling and the emotional rollercoaster that I went on.
Hazel Grace Lancaster, our heroine, is a wonderful person. She is witty and clever. She is taking college classes, can drive and enjoys literature. A lot. Her favourite book is An Imperial Afflection by Peter Van Houghton, which is about a young woman Anna, battling with cancer. Something Hazel knows all too well. Suffering from thyroid cancer with metastasis in her lungs, Hazel uses a machine to help her breathing and takes regular doses of a drug called Phalanxifor. She is a strong character and we see the world through her rational eyes as she goes about her day to day, and later, unexpected life.
She meets her match in Augustus 'Gus' Waters, a young man in remission. Gus suffered from osteosarcoma, and as a result has a prosthetic leg. Yet he remains a typical boy - he likes films such as V For Vendetta, playing video games with his friends and reading about heroic types who wield large guns and kill lots of people. He has deep philosophies and keeps a packet of cigarettes with him, even though he doesn't smoke.
Issac, a supporting character, introduces the two. Issac has lost one eye to cancer, and is due to have the other removed, making him blind. He is witty, but hurts from the physical and emotional pain that he suffers. He is a great addition.
Whilst there is an instant connection between Hazel and Gus, she pushes him aside, not wanting to start a relationship, should anything happen to her. This doesn't stop them though. A gorgeously crafted whirlwind of a romance ensues and we fall in love with Hazel and Gus, cheering on their love and hoping against hope that nothing awful and dramatic happens so that they are separated.
I can't spoil anything, in fact, I won't. I'll have to say read this when you get a chance. Have tissues and a warm, comforting drink, because you will need them. It's a beautiful love story and I believe that some of the profits from this should go towards various cancer charities.
You can find John Green in the following places:
Twitter
Tumblr
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The Swedish Girl by Alex Gray
Another review for you! Today, I review a book which essentially broke my heart, made me cry and think until I gave myself a headache.
I give you, The Fault In Our Stars by John Green. This is a standalone book, published by Dutton Books.
Blurb
Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel's story is about to be completely rewritten.Now, I had heard good things about the author. He is a bestseller on Amazon, Waterstones and generally the world. He is stalked by millions of fans on the social networks Twitter and Tumblr, where he regularly interacts with his fans. The cover I found interesting, but I didn't feel it was my type of book, so I pushed it aside and read others.
It was only when I was recommended the book by a dear friend that I decided I would. Using a gift card from Waterstones, I picked it up the last time I went to town. I made sure it was the original cover, read the blurb, discovered it was Young Adult, and into the shopping bag it went. It was a few weeks before I picked it up - I battled my way through some library books and a vampire novel I had kept meaning to read, but once I started, I could not put it down. And I mean that - the book even went in my handbag to the shops! Now, I read fast, but it never detracts from the feeling and the emotional rollercoaster that I went on.
Hazel Grace Lancaster, our heroine, is a wonderful person. She is witty and clever. She is taking college classes, can drive and enjoys literature. A lot. Her favourite book is An Imperial Afflection by Peter Van Houghton, which is about a young woman Anna, battling with cancer. Something Hazel knows all too well. Suffering from thyroid cancer with metastasis in her lungs, Hazel uses a machine to help her breathing and takes regular doses of a drug called Phalanxifor. She is a strong character and we see the world through her rational eyes as she goes about her day to day, and later, unexpected life.
She meets her match in Augustus 'Gus' Waters, a young man in remission. Gus suffered from osteosarcoma, and as a result has a prosthetic leg. Yet he remains a typical boy - he likes films such as V For Vendetta, playing video games with his friends and reading about heroic types who wield large guns and kill lots of people. He has deep philosophies and keeps a packet of cigarettes with him, even though he doesn't smoke.
Issac, a supporting character, introduces the two. Issac has lost one eye to cancer, and is due to have the other removed, making him blind. He is witty, but hurts from the physical and emotional pain that he suffers. He is a great addition.
Whilst there is an instant connection between Hazel and Gus, she pushes him aside, not wanting to start a relationship, should anything happen to her. This doesn't stop them though. A gorgeously crafted whirlwind of a romance ensues and we fall in love with Hazel and Gus, cheering on their love and hoping against hope that nothing awful and dramatic happens so that they are separated.
I can't spoil anything, in fact, I won't. I'll have to say read this when you get a chance. Have tissues and a warm, comforting drink, because you will need them. It's a beautiful love story and I believe that some of the profits from this should go towards various cancer charities.
You can find John Green in the following places:
Tumblr
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The Swedish Girl by Alex Gray
February 2, 2014
Coriolanus - National Theatre Live Review
To all who are reading this,
To kick start this month's blog entries, I am opening with a review of a local theatre production I had witness to see.
I must let you know - there may be spoilers.
Length: 180 mins inc. interval
Release date: 6th December 2013
Synopsis: When an old adversary threatens Rome, the city calls once more on her hero and defender: Coriolanus. But he has enemies at home too. Famine threatens the city, the citizens' hunger swells to an appetite for change, and on returning from the field Coriolanus must confront the march of realpolitik and the voice an of angry people.
Genre: Drama
Location: Donmar Warehouse, Covent Gardens, London, UK
Director: Josie Rourke
Words: William Shakespeare
Starring: Tom Hiddleston, Mark Gatiss
Initially, my reasoning to watch this play was the lead actor, Tom Hiddleston, who is well known for his most recent role as Loki in the Thor franchise. I am a tragic fangirl and love him and his work to pieces. He's a masterful actor, and whilst I had seen a few of his films, I wanted to see how theatrical he could be too. So when the decision from the National Theatre came to do a live broadcast of the play to cinemas around the world, I jumped at the chance. The tickets were cheaper than going to London to the venue. I had no idea what to expect from the show and so I did my research, discovering the initial outline of the show.
There are reasons that newspapers and critics alike are singing the show's praises. The broadcast made it feel very real, but not to the extent that we were actually in London in the theatre - a tiny 265 seater venue in an an old disused warehouse. Whilst some directors take the chance to modernize Shakespeare's works, Rourke keeps to it, which was perfect.
The screening was very well done and thought out. The cameras used to capture all the action were steady and used by experts, and the show even featured what could be seen as DVD extras - a presenter from the National Theatre giving us a clips from interviews with the cast and creatives, and then a follow up talk with the director during the interval - and they had to mention that the lead star, Hiddleston, has been named Sexiest Man.
I'm not complaining.
The set is very stripped back and minimal. They use the detailing already in the theatre, such as an old iron ladder and guttering, to interact with the play more - such as having a servant sweep the remains of the act away (a noticeable scene is where Hiddleston showers after battle and the water is sluiced away, along with some make-up and costuming).
Speaking of costumes, whilst they have little time to change, only a few actors have the same costumes. Other supporting actors change slight bits and their accents to show they have transformed into a different characters, but this works very well.
Lead actor Hiddleston (Coriolanus) is a brilliant lead. He holds the audiences attention - not only with his looks, but with his grasp of the language and actions. He was built for Shakespeare. A soft voice, yet it comes to a point where he is full of rage and ferocity, that I suspect some audience members thought he was channeling Loki once more. I know I did. He stalks the small stage and engages so well with others. Even when he managed to forget his lines, he kept his cool, improvised and continued, keeping the show on track, holding other actors (female and male) to him that the audience would be very jealous. There are a few kisses between Coriolanus and his wife, and even a male lead. He very much looks and acts like a soldier, and the fight scenes are well choreographed. I would see another show with him in, in a heartbeat.
Gatiss (Menenius) is a brilliant addition. Whilst keeping serious, and almost channeling his well known counterpart Mycroft from BBC's Sherlock, he takes a comedic effect, occasionally camping up, and talking about the famine in such a way that he is back with The League of Gentlemen. He is wise, constantly urging Coriolanus to do what he thinks is the best for the country. He commands his audience - they know who he is, and what he is here to do. Having only seen him on television, he is a great stage actor and suited the part to perfection.
My only grievance with the showing is that the broadcast cut short during the final moments of Coriolanus' heroic fight to be true to himself, love his family and his country. As he is chained and hoisted upwards, the film cut blank. It is clear to most audiences that Coriolanus is dead, but why cut it? I don't know whether other cinemas missed this, but it was a great annoyance to those around me. It meant we missed the curtain call and drew away from the effect and spell the cast put over us.
That being said, Coriolanus was a very enjoyable Shakespearean drama. I haven't seen any performed since school so this was a real treat. I hope to see Hiddleston and Gatiss return to the stage very soon!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: '... then he ate my boy entrancers.' More mad, marvy confessional of Georgia Nicolson by Louise Rennison.
To kick start this month's blog entries, I am opening with a review of a local theatre production I had witness to see.
I must let you know - there may be spoilers.
Length: 180 mins inc. interval
Release date: 6th December 2013
Synopsis: When an old adversary threatens Rome, the city calls once more on her hero and defender: Coriolanus. But he has enemies at home too. Famine threatens the city, the citizens' hunger swells to an appetite for change, and on returning from the field Coriolanus must confront the march of realpolitik and the voice an of angry people.
Genre: Drama
Location: Donmar Warehouse, Covent Gardens, London, UK
Director: Josie Rourke
Words: William Shakespeare
Starring: Tom Hiddleston, Mark Gatiss
Initially, my reasoning to watch this play was the lead actor, Tom Hiddleston, who is well known for his most recent role as Loki in the Thor franchise. I am a tragic fangirl and love him and his work to pieces. He's a masterful actor, and whilst I had seen a few of his films, I wanted to see how theatrical he could be too. So when the decision from the National Theatre came to do a live broadcast of the play to cinemas around the world, I jumped at the chance. The tickets were cheaper than going to London to the venue. I had no idea what to expect from the show and so I did my research, discovering the initial outline of the show.
There are reasons that newspapers and critics alike are singing the show's praises. The broadcast made it feel very real, but not to the extent that we were actually in London in the theatre - a tiny 265 seater venue in an an old disused warehouse. Whilst some directors take the chance to modernize Shakespeare's works, Rourke keeps to it, which was perfect.
The screening was very well done and thought out. The cameras used to capture all the action were steady and used by experts, and the show even featured what could be seen as DVD extras - a presenter from the National Theatre giving us a clips from interviews with the cast and creatives, and then a follow up talk with the director during the interval - and they had to mention that the lead star, Hiddleston, has been named Sexiest Man.
I'm not complaining.
The set is very stripped back and minimal. They use the detailing already in the theatre, such as an old iron ladder and guttering, to interact with the play more - such as having a servant sweep the remains of the act away (a noticeable scene is where Hiddleston showers after battle and the water is sluiced away, along with some make-up and costuming).
Speaking of costumes, whilst they have little time to change, only a few actors have the same costumes. Other supporting actors change slight bits and their accents to show they have transformed into a different characters, but this works very well.
Lead actor Hiddleston (Coriolanus) is a brilliant lead. He holds the audiences attention - not only with his looks, but with his grasp of the language and actions. He was built for Shakespeare. A soft voice, yet it comes to a point where he is full of rage and ferocity, that I suspect some audience members thought he was channeling Loki once more. I know I did. He stalks the small stage and engages so well with others. Even when he managed to forget his lines, he kept his cool, improvised and continued, keeping the show on track, holding other actors (female and male) to him that the audience would be very jealous. There are a few kisses between Coriolanus and his wife, and even a male lead. He very much looks and acts like a soldier, and the fight scenes are well choreographed. I would see another show with him in, in a heartbeat.
Gatiss (Menenius) is a brilliant addition. Whilst keeping serious, and almost channeling his well known counterpart Mycroft from BBC's Sherlock, he takes a comedic effect, occasionally camping up, and talking about the famine in such a way that he is back with The League of Gentlemen. He is wise, constantly urging Coriolanus to do what he thinks is the best for the country. He commands his audience - they know who he is, and what he is here to do. Having only seen him on television, he is a great stage actor and suited the part to perfection.
My only grievance with the showing is that the broadcast cut short during the final moments of Coriolanus' heroic fight to be true to himself, love his family and his country. As he is chained and hoisted upwards, the film cut blank. It is clear to most audiences that Coriolanus is dead, but why cut it? I don't know whether other cinemas missed this, but it was a great annoyance to those around me. It meant we missed the curtain call and drew away from the effect and spell the cast put over us.
That being said, Coriolanus was a very enjoyable Shakespearean drama. I haven't seen any performed since school so this was a real treat. I hope to see Hiddleston and Gatiss return to the stage very soon!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: '... then he ate my boy entrancers.' More mad, marvy confessional of Georgia Nicolson by Louise Rennison.
January 10, 2014
The Night Itself - A Review
To all who are reading this,
It's a rare thing for me to post a book review on a blog. The usual haunts you'd find me on for those are on Goodreads or Amazon. But no, I thought, this has to be something special. This book was that good I have to stop and review it in all its published glory.
Today, I'm talking about The Night Itself by Zoë Marriott. This is book one in of The Name of the Blade series, published by Walker.
Blurb
When Mio steals the family katana - a priceless antique sword - from her parents' attic, she just wants to spice up a fancy-dress costume. But the katana is much more than some dusty antique and her actions unleash a terrible, ancient evil onto the streets of unsuspecting London. Soon Shinobu, a fearless warrior boy, appears to protect Mio - and threatens to steal her heart. With the gods and monsters of Japanese myth stalking her and her friends, Mio realises that is she cannot keep the sword safe, and learn to control its legendary powers, she will lose not only her own life... but the love of a lifetime.
I met the author in 2011 in my local Waterstones when she released her novel, Shadows on the Moon. Since then we've spoken on Facebook, on her blog posts and mainly on Twitter. She is an avid user of the popular social network and her Tweets are often hilarious (personal favourites are her "live snarking" of television programmes).
Now, I knew the lovely author had her book out and I'd kept meaning to get it out the library, but as life goes on, the more you seem to have to do. I found it on my last trip and decided that yes, I would read it.
I read it in a matter of days, and it would've been shorter had my own muse not been calling out to me to write. The Night Itself is a clever YA novel that blends Japanese culture and modern London life into a delicious cake. There's so much of everything here that its great.
Mio, our central character, is not the typical heroine. British born, with Japanese heritage, she loves her family dearly, and had a close relationship with her grandfather. He enrols her in kendo classes and tells her stories of their mythology. Yet at the same time, she can be ditzy, dishonourable and downright delightful. She loves anime and manga - kudos to Miss Marriott for the use of Rukia from Bleach which had me giggling like a schoolgirl. Yet, she is still a strong heroine, but not strong enough that she does not need her friends.
Jack is the almost stereotypical gay best friend, with a twist. Jack is not male, but female, and she is exactly my type. A karate fanatic, she loves 80's films and dressed like a punk rock goth chick. She is Feisty, Jack does have a level head on her shoulder and is a perfect match for Mio.
Another perfect match is Shinobu. I can't say too much about him, apart from this - yum. Exactly, how I'd pictured my dream Japanese boyfriend.
The plot is a perfect combination of anime, manga and typical British storytelling. It is rich in mythology such as the nekomata and the kitsune, and the action sequences play out in your head, like they should play out on the silver screen. The research she has undergone is clear, concise and does not muddle or bog down the book. It takes talent to be able to have your readers to that, and it was a book that had me reading late into the night. Not that I don't do that anyway, but I was completely gripped.
It is at this point I say to you readers, please read Miss Marriott's work. She is incredibly talented - she has a passion for reading and writing, and it clearly shows. This is possibly one of my favourite books that she has written, and I cannot wait for more in the series.
You can find Zoe on the Internet in the following places:
Twitter Blog
Amazon
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
--
Currently reading: The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
It's a rare thing for me to post a book review on a blog. The usual haunts you'd find me on for those are on Goodreads or Amazon. But no, I thought, this has to be something special. This book was that good I have to stop and review it in all its published glory.
Today, I'm talking about The Night Itself by Zoë Marriott. This is book one in of The Name of the Blade series, published by Walker.
Blurb
When Mio steals the family katana - a priceless antique sword - from her parents' attic, she just wants to spice up a fancy-dress costume. But the katana is much more than some dusty antique and her actions unleash a terrible, ancient evil onto the streets of unsuspecting London. Soon Shinobu, a fearless warrior boy, appears to protect Mio - and threatens to steal her heart. With the gods and monsters of Japanese myth stalking her and her friends, Mio realises that is she cannot keep the sword safe, and learn to control its legendary powers, she will lose not only her own life... but the love of a lifetime.
I met the author in 2011 in my local Waterstones when she released her novel, Shadows on the Moon. Since then we've spoken on Facebook, on her blog posts and mainly on Twitter. She is an avid user of the popular social network and her Tweets are often hilarious (personal favourites are her "live snarking" of television programmes).
Now, I knew the lovely author had her book out and I'd kept meaning to get it out the library, but as life goes on, the more you seem to have to do. I found it on my last trip and decided that yes, I would read it.
I read it in a matter of days, and it would've been shorter had my own muse not been calling out to me to write. The Night Itself is a clever YA novel that blends Japanese culture and modern London life into a delicious cake. There's so much of everything here that its great.
Mio, our central character, is not the typical heroine. British born, with Japanese heritage, she loves her family dearly, and had a close relationship with her grandfather. He enrols her in kendo classes and tells her stories of their mythology. Yet at the same time, she can be ditzy, dishonourable and downright delightful. She loves anime and manga - kudos to Miss Marriott for the use of Rukia from Bleach which had me giggling like a schoolgirl. Yet, she is still a strong heroine, but not strong enough that she does not need her friends.
Jack is the almost stereotypical gay best friend, with a twist. Jack is not male, but female, and she is exactly my type. A karate fanatic, she loves 80's films and dressed like a punk rock goth chick. She is Feisty, Jack does have a level head on her shoulder and is a perfect match for Mio.
Another perfect match is Shinobu. I can't say too much about him, apart from this - yum. Exactly, how I'd pictured my dream Japanese boyfriend.
The plot is a perfect combination of anime, manga and typical British storytelling. It is rich in mythology such as the nekomata and the kitsune, and the action sequences play out in your head, like they should play out on the silver screen. The research she has undergone is clear, concise and does not muddle or bog down the book. It takes talent to be able to have your readers to that, and it was a book that had me reading late into the night. Not that I don't do that anyway, but I was completely gripped.
It is at this point I say to you readers, please read Miss Marriott's work. She is incredibly talented - she has a passion for reading and writing, and it clearly shows. This is possibly one of my favourite books that she has written, and I cannot wait for more in the series.
You can find Zoe on the Internet in the following places:
Twitter Blog
Amazon
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
--
Currently reading: The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
