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My Kind of Costume Party

Oct 31, 2013

As everyone knows, today is Halloween. To be honest, I'm really not a fan of the holiday. I do, however, LOVE a good costume... I just prefer the kind that remind me of my favorite books or time periods in the past. So, I thought it would be a little fun to join in today's festivities by highlighting my favorite costume dramas (in rank order!). I'm sorry it's such a long and picture-heavy post, but I don't know how to talk about these movies without including photographic teasers to tempt you to watch them!

{Side Note: When I'm watching period dramas based on books or real people, I typically don't care if they are super accurate. You'll see what I mean...}

Based on the Dickens novel of the same name, this mini-series definitely takes a little time to get into. It's got all the makings of classic Dickens: an intricate story, a large cast of characters and the slow build-up to the dramatic conclusion. It even got my mister's stamp of approval!

So, I have a huge crush on Eddie Redmayne. He was the main reason I wanted to see Les Miserables, and I was really excited when I learned that he starred in this adaptation of the classic WWI novel by Sebastian Faulks. It's definitely more graphic than a typical costume drama, but I still really enjoyed this movie.

Even though I knew how this movie was going to end, I was still in tears as the movie wrapped up. I read the novel in high school and didn't love it, but this mini-series version makes me want to revisit the story now that some years have passed. Now that I think about it, I should move this one closer to the front of the list.

I read this book in college and enjoyed it, even if I did think it read like a less sparkling version of Austen's Pride and Prejudice. That being said, this is a delightful costume drama that (like the movie mentioned previously) makes me want to revisit the book. There is some major slow burn in this one!

11. Emma - 1996 Movie Version
I think this is an Austen movie that isn't necessarily a fan favorite, but I really loved it. This was one that I watched before I read the book, and I immediately knew that I had to read the book when it was over. If it was that fun and witty on screen, I could only imagine how much better it'd be on the page.

I dragged my mom and sister to a special movie theater to see this one when it released since it wasn't going to be in a theater anywhere close to us. They were kind enough to oblige, and I wasn't disappointed. This is one of those real life romances that just makes me love learning about history!

09. Sense and Sensibility - 1995 Movie Version
Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant... First of all, this movie obviously has an absolutely brilliant cast. I felt the emotion in this movie in a way that I'd missed when I first read the book as a teen. I love turning this one on when it's cold and rainy outside!

This movie portrays the romance between poet John Keats and a woman named Fanny Brawne. I love so much about this film, which was written and directed by Jane Campion. I basically turn this movie on whenever I feel like I need a good cry. That take as you will...

As I mentioned in my side note at the beginning of this post, I don't always care about historical accuracy or faithfulness to a book when it comes to costume dramas. This is a perfect example of that fact. I know this is wildly speculative and not really accurate, but I just don't care. I love this movie!

06. Emma - 2009 Mini-Series Version
Okay, so Romola Garai's mannerisms annoy me a bit in this version, especially in the very beginning episode. However, there are so many other things to love about this production, and she does calm down as the show goes on. I think I'm due for a rewatch of this one soon!

I think this was one of my earliest costume drama obsessions. I remember being absolutely horrified that Jo didn't end up with Laurie! Yes, I watched this one before I read the book. Either way, there's something so comforting and nostalgic about this movie. That definitely makes it a favorite for me!

04. Pride and Prejudice - 2005 Movie Version
Not everyone loves this version, and I get that. As an adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, it's not that faithful. But as a costume drama and period piece? OH BOY. I absolutely cannot get enough of this movie. I just convinced my mister that I NEEDED the Blu-Ray version because it was clearly superior to my much-loved and (I argued) practically worn-out DVD. Can't fault that logic!

Oh, Anne and Gilbert. You two will be the death of me! All the drama, all the banter, all the feelings. I fell for these two as far back as elementary school, and I was positively thrilled when I discovered the mini-series. I remember begging my sister to watch it with me, and I was so shocked when she said it was boring. NO WAY, SISTER.

Look, I don't know why more people haven't seen and fallen absolutely head over heels in love with this movie. The setting is gorgeous, the score is beautiful, and the acting is superb. Not to mention the heartbreaking story! It is quiet, slow, intimate and packs an emotional punch.

01. Pride and Prejudice - 1995 Mini-Series Version
This should be no surprise to anyone who knows me! If you can stick it out for six hours, I promise this mini-series is worth it. There's a reason this version is often credited as the catalyst that led to the Jane Austen craze! People loved her before this mini-series, but this is what took the Janeite fandom to new heights.

I can think of SO many more costume dramas that I didn't include!
I struggled so much to narrow it down to just fifteen.
So, tell me, do you love any of these movies? And which ones did I forget?

Consider This Classic: Ellie Recommends

Oct 30, 2013

Consider This Classic is a monthly feature where bloggers highlight and recommend their favorite classic. They'll tell you when they first read it, why they love it and where to go from there. If you'd like to participate in Consider This Classic, click here to sign up.

This month, I've got Ellie from Book Revels here sharing her favorite classic. Ellie is a blogger I found through Betty and Jamie (she's in their book club!), and I'm so glad I did. And I'm particularly excited about her recommendation this month because it's a favorite of mine. I was thrilled when she told me she was choosing this book!

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Publication Date: 1813
Originally Published In: United Kingdom
Amazon | Goodreads

Summary (from Goodreads)
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of good fortune must be in want of a wife."

Pride and Prejudice has delighted generations of readers with its unforgettable cast of characters, carefully choreographed plot, and a hugely entertaining view of the world and its absurdities. With the arrival of eligible young men in their neighborhood, the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are turned inside out and upside down. Pride encounters prejudice, upward-mobility confronts social disdain, and quick-wittedness challenges sagacity, as misconceptions and hasty judgments lead to heartache and scandal, but eventually to true understanding, self-knowledge, and love. In this supremely satisfying story, Jane Austen balances comedy with seriousness, and witty observation with profound insight.

I first picked up Pride and Prejudice in twelfth grade. For English class, we were given a list of books to choose from to write a critical paper about and Pride and Prejudice was the only one that appealed to me. Plus, I'll admit I thought it would be the easiest to write about! I ended up falling completely in love with it in a way that I had never connected to a classic before.

I'm very picky when it comes to romantic relationships in books. I have extremely high standards: there has to be depth, complexity, and flaws, and I prefer the slow-building kind of relationship. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's relationship in Pride and Prejudice is the quintessential example of a perfect book couple to me. Their path to true love is rife with misunderstandings. They let their pride and prejudice get in the way of forming a meaningful connection with each other. What I love most is how they transform over the course of the novel and let go of their first impressions. They both make mistakes, but they own up to them and find each other at least. They change because of each other and become better people for it. Their love story will always be one of my favorites.

For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund - A retelling of a different Austen novel, but has the same kind of relationship that flounders because of misunderstandings. I think fans of Pride and Prejudice will enjoy this one.

P.S. My favorite Pride and Prejudice adaptations are the Keira Knightley movie and the Lizzie Bennet Diaries!

Haunted By Your Memory

Oct 29, 2013

In the Shadow of Blackbirds by Cat Winters

Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Abrams Books | Amulet Books
Pages: 387 pages
Source & Format: Bought; Kindle ebook
Amazon | Goodreads

Summary (from Goodreads)
In 1918, the world seems on the verge of apocalypse. Americans roam the streets in gauze masks to ward off the deadly Spanish influenza, and the government ships young men to the front lines of a brutal war, creating an atmosphere of fear and confusion. Sixteen-year-old Mary Shelley Black watches as desperate mourners flock to séances and spirit photographers for comfort, but she herself has never believed in ghosts. During her bleakest moment, however, she's forced to rethink her entire way of looking at life and death, for her first love - a boy who died in battle - returns in spirit form. But what does he want from her?

Featuring haunting archival early-twentieth-century photographs, this is a tense, romantic story set in a past that is eerily like our own time.

Thoughts on In the Shadow of Blackbirds
I couldn't really think of anything for today's Top Ten Tuesday topic (Scariest Book Covers) because I absolutely hate reading anything scary. I stay far, far away from the horror section. I did, however, recently read In the Shadow of Blackbirds by Cat Winters. It's gotta a pretty scary cover, if you ask me. I mean, hello, there's a creepy ghost floating behind the girl!

I love historical fiction, but I would never naturally gravitate toward this book. From the cover to the summary, it doesn't really appeal to my horror hating self. However, Alyssa from Books Take You Places spoke highly of both this book and The Caged Graves, and I decided to give both a shot. I knew I was definitely interested The Caged Graves, and my initial assessment was correct. I really, really enjoyed that story! I was more on the fence about buying this one, but the Goodreads page left me curious enough to give it a shot.

Mary Shelley Black has to go live with her aunt in San Diego after her father is arrested for treason in 1918. It's the place where she met her best friend and childhood sweetheart, Stephen, so it does hold good memories for her even if she's going there under less-than-pleasant circumstances now. Her father's imprisoned, her love is fighting at the front, and the city is fighting off the deadly Spanish influenza. Things aren't looking good for Mary Shelley! And then it gets worse. Mary Shelley learns that Stephen has died, and she starts being visited by his spirit. But why?

In the Shadow of Blackbirds had SO many things about it that I enjoyed. Winters' research was evident throughout the book, and I particularly loved her notes at the end about it. There was definitely an ominous, creepy tone pervading the book. There are two elements that contribute to this - the paranormal element (spirit photography, etc.) and the influenza. Both make the ominous atmosphere just drip off the page. I never felt scared while reading the book, but it's definitely got that haunting feel.

Mary Shelley was also my kind of heroine. She's capable of so much, and isn't afraid of a challenge. From her relationship with her aunt to her letters exchanged with Stephen, I just so loved her smart and sassy self. When she feels like something isn't right, she investigates until she learns the truth. She just can't give up until Stephen is at peace!

Despite being really well-written, filled with fascinating historical detail, and having a heroine that I loved, I probably should have trusted my gut on this one. This was definitely a case of "it's not you, it's me." I actively avoid books with spirits, ghosts, and this kind of element. It's not something that I like or care to read about, but I was hoping it might be incorporated differently into this book. With The Caged Graves, the mystery is explained realistically without relying on the supernatural. This book, however, does firmly rely on the existence of spirits in its resolution. Since I dislike those elements so completely, I couldn't really fall in love with this book in the end. It's like I was detached from the story because of my personal dislike for stories of this nature.

This is one of those rare reviews where I'd tell you that I would recommend this book if you like this type of story. Despite my lackluster rating, I did feel like this was a really strong novel. I wasn't the right reader for it, unfortunately, but I have no doubt that many readers will find much to love about the story Winters has written.

One random note: I bought this on my Kindle, but I saw the hard copy in stores and was shocked by its loveliness. There are SO many details that went into the creation of this book, and you'll miss out on all the thought and work that went into it if you don't see it in person. Just trust me! If you want to read this book, you need to buy a copy for your shelves instead of your e-reader.

So Quotable
"Don't ever worry what the boys who don't appreciate originality think of you. They're fools."

When What's Stolen Is Found

Oct 28, 2013

Where the Stars Still Shine by Trish Doller

Release Date: September 24, 2013
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Pages: 308 pages
Source & Format: Bought; Hardcover
Amazon | Goodreads

Summary (from Goodreads)
Stolen as a child from her large and loving family, and on the run with her mom for more than ten years, Callie has only the barest idea of what normal life might be like. She's never had a home, never gone to school, and has gotten most of her meals from laundromat vending machines. Her dreams are haunted by memories she'd like to forget completely. But when Callie's mom is finally arrested for kidnapping her, and Callie's real dad whisks her back to what would have been her life, in a small town in Florida, Callie must find a way to leave the past behind. She must learn to be part of a family. And she must believe that love - even with someone who seems an improbable choice - is more than just a possibility.

Thoughts on Where the Stars Still Shine
I read Trish Doller's debut, Something Like Normal, earlier this year but chose not to review it. I really liked it, and I was so impressed by Doller's ability to write such strong, memorable characters. While the story and the setting have been special and unique in both of her books, I really feel like it's the characters that make the books truly stand out.

When I first saw the cover for Where the Stars Still Shine, I fell in love. I had no idea what the book was about, and I don't even think I'd read Something Like Normal at that point, but it was definitely interested in it. One thing I've realized now that I've read this book - the cover doesn't fully portray the depth and feelings in this book. Don't get me wrong, I still love the cover... but you've got to know going into this book that it's not all light and fun.

Callie has spent her entire life on the run with her mom. There have been horrible moments and painful memories, but she still loves her mom. It's the only life she's ever known. The past finally catches up to them - Callie's mom is arrested and Callie is returned to her father. She's headed back to huge Greek family in Tarpon Springs, Florida, and there are bound to be a few bumps along the way.

My favorite thing in Where the Stars Still Shine were the characters. They were well-developed, unique and felt so real. I loved that family was a HUGE aspect of this book, and it was done in a way that felt so fresh. There is often a gaping hole in YA where parents, siblings and extended family ought to be. While I know that a book can't focus on every single aspect of a character's life, I do often get frustrated with the fact that it seems as though many teen live in total isolation from their family.

Well, that's definitely not the case in this book! I can't even choose my favorite person in the family. Callie's dad is doing his best to make the transition home as easy as possible for her. Callie's grandmother is a little spitfire and exactly how I would imagine a Greek matriarch. Despite a few rough moments, Callie's cousin became such a good friend to her - another thing I loved! It's so special when a family member is also a close friend.

Callie herself is not really a likable character. She's constantly hurting the people around her. Pushing everyone away to protect herself makes her a hard character to love. My heart broke for her, but I also wanted her to see how she kept sabotaging her own happiness. However, it was entirely believable that she'd act that way, so this isn't a complaint about the book or the character. If there's anything I felt was lacking in Where the Stars Still Shine, it's professional help for Callie. I know everyone was doing their best to help her start over in Tarpon Springs, but I did feel like she was thrown into this new world without enough attention given to her emotional needs. In light of the abuse she'd suffered, I found myself wanting one of the adults in her life to insist she get the help she needed. It's like she was supposed to just forget the past and move on - but there are some deeply traumatic things that have happened to her and have totally affected the way she interacts with the world. I didn't feel like she was given the resources she really needed to process what had happened to her.

The romantic relationship was believable, even if I was somewhat hesitant about the way it started. It's not my favorite way to read about a relationship beginning, but I did think it felt authentic to Callie's character. So, at the same time, it did make sense to me. Alex was definitely charming, and I loved the tension he was experiencing with his own family. What's interesting is that I wasn't really that invested in the romance. There were things about it that kept me from loving it, but I think that's partly because of where these two characters are at this point in their lives.

I did think that the book ended really nicely. Everything isn't all wrapped up, but it's something that felt very realistic. It's not a story that really calls for a ribbon around the ending. Callie's life is messy, so it's only fitting that the ending would have a few loose ends.

Tarpon Springs was such a special setting. The Greek culture came alive, and I felt so connected with the places described in this book. I could just picture this little beach town and the colorful characters that populated it.

In Where the Stars Still Shine, Doller has created a heroine with a heartbreaking past who just keeps getting in the way of her own future. I find it really interesting that Doller has now written two protagonists who have endured really painful events in their pasts and are struggling to find some semblance of normal without hurting all of the people that truly love them. They aren't always successful - but the journey is certainly one worth taking. I'm really excited to see what else Doller writes in the future!

So Quotable
"I've never been in love before, but this moment is bittersweet and tender and terrible and perfect. Surely this must be it."

Restore What's Been Lost

Oct 25, 2013

Unspoken by Dee Henderson

Release Date: October 1, 2013
Publisher: Bethany House
Pages: 441 pages
Source & Format: NetGalley; eARC
Amazon | Goodreads

Summary (from Goodreads)
Charlotte Graham is at the center of the most famous kidnapping in Chicago history.

The task force of FBI and local cops found her two abductors, killed them, rescued her, but it took four very long years. The fact she was found less than three miles from her home, had been there the entire time, haunts them. She's changed her identity, found a profession she loves, and rebuilt her life.

She's never said a word - to the cops, to her doctors, to family - about those four years.

A family legacy has brought her back to Chicago where a reporter is writing a book about the kidnapping. The cops who worked the case are cooperating with him. Her options are limited: hope the report doesn't find the full truth, or break her silence about what happened. And her silence is what has protected her family for years.

Bryce Bishop doesn't know her past, he only knows she has coins to sell from her grandfather's estate - and that the FBI director for the Chicago office made the introduction. The more he gets to know Charlotte, the more interested he becomes, an interest encouraged by those closest to her. But nothing else is working in his favor - she's decided she is single for life, she struggles with her faith, and she's willing to forego a huge inheritance to keep her privacy. She's not giving him much of an opening to work with.

Charlotte wants to trust him. She needs to tell him what happened. Because a crime cops thought was solved, has only opened another chapter...

Thoughts on Unspoken
I first discovered Dee Henderson when I was in high school. I was primarily reading Christian fiction at the time, and I noticed that there were a ton of her books on display at the Christian bookstore. I started with Danger in the Shadows - the prequel to her popular O'Malley series - and just fell in love. Henderson writes these mystery/thrillers that have just the right amount of romance. I went on to read every single book she'd written and have counted myself as a huge fan ever since.

Prior to last year, her last book was published in 2006. I was always looking for more from her, but I could never find any information on whether or not she was writing another book. And then I spotted an ad for her book Full Disclosure. I bought Full Disclosure the day it released and read it soon after. And, unfortunately, it was one of the most disappointing and frustrating things I'd ever read. I then read and reviewed her new novella, Jennifer, when it was released earlier this year. While I had a few minor issues with it, I did feel like Henderson was finding her groove again. It didn't have the same spark as her earlier books, but I enjoyed her brief return to the beloved O'Malley family.

That's a ton of detail leading up to my review, but I feel like it's relevant because I was only cautiously optimistic about Unspoken. The summary sounded like classic Henderson, but I still wasn't sure. So, I requested the book on NetGalley and hoped for the best. I actually got approved after the book had been published, so I ended up purchasing my own copy just a few days later.

What I found so interesting about Unspoken is that it was a classic Henderson setup but still reflected some of the changes I've noticed recently in her writing style. Charlotte Graham was at the center of one of Chicago's most famous kidnapping cases when she was a teenager. Years have passed, and she's slowly and carefully built a life that she enjoys. When a family relation dies, Charlotte is left in charge of taking care of dismantling the estate and all it entails. In the process, she meets Bryce Bishop. He sells collectible coins, and Charlotte has a stockpile that she wants to part with. Part One of Unspoken deals with this process - making the deals, selling the coins and going through the family member's estate. Charlotte and Bryce get to know each other during this time, but it's a pained and tense process. Charlotte has closed herself off because of her past, and Bryce doesn't know her story.

To be honest, Unspoken has a slower and much more detailed beginning than I've come to expect from Henderson. I personally enjoyed this part, but I do think that some readers will find it a little too tedious or labored. I was interested in it, but it did leave me feeling like this wasn't the Henderson book I'd recommend to someone that was new to her. By Part Two, things had really picked up with the story. The focus on coin collecting shifted back to Charlotte's kidnapping and some of the mystery surrounding it. There have long been some unresolved questions regarding what happened to her during those four years and who, exactly, was involved in her disappearance. This section was much more enjoyable, and getting to this part is what prompted me to stay up until 2 a.m. to finish this book.

As far as the romance, there have been interesting similarities in the romantic relationships from Henderson's most recent full-length novels. In both books, I found the relationships to be interesting but also a bit difficult. Charlotte is a very hard character to connect to - she's cold, closed off and is challenging to like. Bryce, on the other hand, was a really warm and genuine man that I enjoyed getting to know. But the development of his relationship with Charlotte felt much more business-like than romantic. It's partly because of Charlotte's past and partly because of their present circumstances, but I definitely didn't find myself really drawn to this couple. I like that Henderson is trying something new with her romances, but I don't think it's something that everyone will love.

I really enjoyed Unspoken, but I think you have to go into it with the right expectations. It doesn't read like Henderson's earlier books. The pacing is much slower, and there isn't a strong romance aspect to the book. It wouldn't be the first book I'd recommend to introduce someone to Henderson, but I did think it was an enjoyable addition to her overall collection of works. While I may prefer her more fact-paced and romantic stories, this one still had a lot to offer for her fans.

So Quotable
"I wish to do your will today, not less than your will, and not beyond it. Allow me to accept the limits and boundaries and lines you see as best for me, while living fully within them for my joy and your glory."
*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way for my review.

History With Hannah - Lesson 2

Oct 24, 2013

I'm back with another installment of this historical fiction feature! I decided to do this to highlight the historical aspects of a book I've read and enjoyed recently. My favorite thing about the historical fiction genre is how much learn when I'm reading - and the curiosity I'm left with afterward that has me looking up new-to-me time periods or aspects of the past.

A few weeks ago, I finished a book that I knew I had to highlight here. It was an emotional, interesting story that combined both past and present to create a book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading!

Orphan Train by Christine Baker Kline

Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: HarperCollins | William Morrow
Pages: 278 pages
Source & Format: Bought; Paperback
Amazon | Goodreads

Nearly eighteen, Molly Ayer knows she has one last chance. Just months from "aging out" of the child welfare system, and close to being kicked out of her foster home, a community service position helping an elderly woman clean out her home is the only thing keeping her out of juvie and worse.

Vivian Daly has lived a quiet life on the coast of Maine. But in her attic, hidden in trunks, are vestiges of a turbulent past. As she helps Vivian sort through her possessions and memories, Molly discovers that she and Vivian aren't as different as they seem to be. A young Irish immigrant orphaned in New York City, Vivian was put on a train to the Midwest with hundreds of other children whose destinies would be determined by luck and chance.

The closer Molly grows to Vivian, the more she discovers parallels to her own life. A Penobscot Indian, she, too, is an outsider being raised by strangers, and she, too, has unanswered questions about the past. As her emotional barriers being to crumble, Molly discovers that she has the power to help Vivian find answers to mysteries that have haunted her for her entire life - answers that will ultimately free them both.

Past: New York City and Minnesota
Present: Maine

Past: 1929 - 1943
Present: 2011

1. Orphan Trains
Prior to reading this book, I'd never heard anything about orphan trains. If I had to guess, I'd bet many people haven't heard about this significant moment in America's past. Rather than try to explain it myself, I'm going to quote a section from the back of the book that provides a short history of what happened:
Between 1854 and 1929, so-called orphan trains transported more than two hundred thousand orphaned, abandoned, and homeless children - many of whom, like the character in this book, were first-generation Irish Catholic immigrants  from coastal cities of the eastern United States to the Midwest for "adoption," which was often turned out to be indentured servitude. Charles Loring Brace, who founded the program, believed that hard work, education, and firm but compassionate childrearing - not to mention midwestern Christian family values - were the only way to save these children from a life of depravity and poverty. Until the 1930s, there was no social safety net; it is estimated that more than ten thousand children were living on the streets of New York City at any given time.
Many of the children had experienced great trauma in their short lives and they had no idea where they were going. The train would pull into a station and the local townspeople would assemble to inspect them - often literally scrutinizing teeth, eyes, and limbs to determine where was child was sturdy enough for field work, or intelligent and mild-mannered enough to cook and clean. Babies and healthy older boys where typically chosen first; older girls were chosen last. After a brief trial period, the children became indentured to their host families. If a child wasn't chosen, he or she would get back on the train to try again at the next town.
Some children were warmly welcomed by new families and towns. Others were beaten, mistreated, taunted, or ignored. They lost any sense of their cultural identities and backgrounds; siblings were often separated, and contact between them was discouraged. City children were expected to perform hard farm labor for which they were neither emotionally nor physically prepared. Many of them were first-generation immigrants from Italy, Poland, and Ireland and were teased for their strange accents; some barely spoke English. Jealousy and competition in the new families created rifts, and many children ended up feeling that they didn't belong anywhere. Some drifted from home to home to find someone who wanted them. Many ran away. The Children's Aid Society did attempt to keep track of these children, but the reality of great distances and spotty record keeping made this difficult.
Are you as shocked as I was reading this explanation? I love studying history - it was one of my favorite subjects in school - but I honestly don't think I ever learned anything about this questionable practice in our past. The thing I loved most about Orphan Train is the way it followed one fictional orphan's story. You can tell how much research Kline did when writing this book, and she skillfully weaves that research into the story. You won't learn every little thing about orphan trains, but you will walk away from this book with a heartbreaking example of what many of these children went through.

2. Portaging
This book alternates between the past and present and focuses on two women (one old, one young) who have a profound impact on one another. The young woman is Molly, a teenager living in foster care, who meets Vivian (the grown-up orphan train rider) when she's doing required community service. What I loved about Molly is that you'll still learn a little something about history from her section, even though it's set in 2011. Molly is a Penobscot Indian, and her class is required to do a research report focusing on something called "portaging."

In the past, Wabanki Indians had "to carry their canoes and everything else they possessed across land from one water body to the next, so they had to think carefully about what to keep and what to discard." The students are required to interview someone about their own portages, the literal or metaphorical journey that have taken in their past and what they chose to carry or leave behind. This was a fascinating part of the story, and I loved the way Kline tied it into the overall story. I had never heard of portaging, but this book left wanting to find out more about this concept. Kline took two different threads in our nation's history and wove them together to create an thoughtful and moving story.

An Orphan Train In Michigan (Source)

In For A Big Surprise

Oct 23, 2013

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

Release Date: August 27, 2013
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's
Pages: 432 pages
Source & Format: Bought; Kindle ebook
Series: Throne of Glass #2
Amazon | Goodreads

Summary (from Goodreads)
An assassin's loyalties are always in doubt.
But her heart never wavers.

After a year of hard labor in the Salt Mines of Endovier, eighteen-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien has won the king's contest to become the new royal assassin. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown - a secret she hides from even her most intimate confidantes.

Keeping up the deadly charade - while pretending to do the king's bidding - will test her in frightening new ways, especially when she's given a task that could jeopardize everything she's come to care for. And there are far more dangerous forces gathering on the horizon - forces that threaten to destroy her entire world, and will surely force Celaena to make a choice.

Where do the assassins's loyalties lie, and who is she most willing to fight for?

Thoughts on Crown of Midnight

Okay, whew. I just needed to start by getting that off my chest! I'm sorry for the shouting, but I just wanted to make sure everyone could hear me. I really enjoyed Throne of Glass, but there were a few minor things that left me wanting a little more from it. Thankfully, this was a case where the second book just made me fall in love with the series. It took the foundation that was established in Throne of Glass to all new heights!

Goodness, I cannot even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this book. I stayed up SO late because I couldn't put it down, even though I had to get up early for work the next morning. There was so much to love about Crown of Midnight, so I think that late-night decision was totally justified.

The beginning of this book focuses on Celaena's new role as the King's Assassin. She's given targets to take out, and I was in heaven finally getting to see her in action. I wanted to get to see Celaena's skill a little more in Throne of Glass since there weren't many scenes focusing on the competition, and Maas definitely delivered in this book. The action was really amped up toward the end of Part One and just took off from there. Sometimes a big turning point like that leaves me feeling like the pacing is off. Thankfully, I never felt that way in this one! While there was more action in Part Two, there was plenty of intrigue and mystery happening in Part One.

And the romance! Ooooohhhh my goodness, I had so many feelings during the first part. I don't even have the words to tell you how happy I was about this element. There's so much romantic tension and then Maas just delivers when the couple finally gets together. My heart was just aching with some of the turns their story took, but I have hope that there'll be even more with these two in book three. I love that Celaena makes a decision about who she wants to be with and sticks with it. I don't know what Maas intends to do in future books, and things aren't all smooth for the two lovebirds, but it's still a relief to see a series where the romance doesn't thrive on a dragged out love triangle.

There are a few big shockers - some that I saw coming, some that I didn't. Either way, I was totally hooked! The big thing that I felt wasn't fully developed in Throne of Glass was the magic, and so I was hoping it would be explained better in Crown of Midnight. Thankfully, there is definitely more to learn in this one about what is going on in this kingdom. I don't want to go into anything about the plot, but trust me when I saw that Maas delivered on everything I felt was lacking in Throne of Glass.

Crown of Midnight is just an addictive story! I really enjoyed Throne of Glass, but I can now see how Maas was setting everything up and introducing you to characters that were about to steal your heart. The creativity of the story, the super swoonworthiness of the romance, and the mythology of the magic in this world just blew me away. The story is so complex, so detailed, and so thought out. I definitely feel like Maas knows where she's going with this story, which makes me even more excited for further books in this series.

If you're anything like me, you'll finish this one just DYING for the next book. The other thing I did? Well, I went and ordered hard copies of these books because I can already tell that I need to have these books on my shelves. The Kindle copies just weren't cutting it... I need to be able to flip back through and savor my favorite moments whenever I want. I'm so glad other bloggers convinced me to give these books a shot - I definitely think I've found a new favorite series!

So Quotable
"It was like coming home or being born or suddenly finding an entire half of herself that had been missing."

What's In A Name?

Oct 22, 2013

Today's Top Ten Tuesday topic asked bloggers to list either the top ten character names they love or the top ten unusual character names. To be honest, I just didn't feel that inspired by the topic. I knew I'd have to spend a long time looking at my bookshelf or scouring Goodreads to come up with ten names. Why? Well, I think I usually find the character a lot more memorable than the name they're given. I know the two should go hand-in-hand, but they don't always for me.

Sometimes, I'll find myself working on a review with characters that I ADORED, but I'll still have to flip back through the book to make sure I'm remembering their name correctly. Isn't that terrible? It typically only happens when I've let too much time pass in between finishing a book and writing the review, but still...

I did, however, start thinking about when parents name their kids after characters in literature. The inspiration for what to name your baby can come from anywhere, and I know that it's not uncommon for bookish people to reflect their literary love in the naming of their babies. No, I'm not pregnant, but I do have a lot of friends who have started having babies... And, what can I say, it's put babies on my brain!

Would I name a future baby after a character I loved? I'm really not sure! But here are a few I'd consider:

Anne - I probably wouldn't use this as a first name since my name is Hannah, and those are a little too similar to each other to be used as the first name for my future offspring. I would, however, consider using this for a middle name. I love classic, traditional names so this is obviously right up my alley. It also helps that this is one of my favorite characters ever written.

Blythe - As much as I love Gilbert, I just can't see myself giving a little boy that name. It's just a little too out-of-date for my taste. Plus, I'm pretty sure everyone and their mother would know exactly why I gave my baby that name. But I would love to use his last name for a girl's first name! The mister isn't a fan, so it's not likely to happen but in my imagination this would totally work.

William - Look, I can't use Fitzwilliam because of obvious reasons but I'd totally turn it into William for my future little boy. It's another classic, traditional name. I like that it's not obviously literary (like if you named a boy Gilbert) so it's not like everyone would immediately know that I'm nerdy enough to name my kid after a fictional character. Not that I mind being nerdy...

Elizabeth - Like Anne, this is another really popular and classic name. It's also one I'd be more likely to use as a middle name than a first name, but that's just because I'd prefer to pick something with a little more personal meaning for my future baby's first name. I also particularly love it shortened to Beth.

Have you ever named something after a favorite fictional character?
What names would you consider for future babies or furbabies?

Spirit That Could Not Be Broken

Oct 21, 2013

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Release Date: August 7, 2012
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's
Pages: 404 pages
Source & Format: Bought; Kindle ebook
Series: Throne of Glass #1
Amazon | Goodreads

Summary (from Amazon)
In a land without magic, where the king rules with an iron hand, an assassin is summoned to the castle. She comes not to kill the king, but to win her freedom. If she defeats twenty-three killers, thieves, and warriors in a competition, she is released from prison to serve as the king's champion. Her name is Celaena Sardothien.

The Crown Prince will provoke her. The Captain of the Guard will protect her. But something evil dwells in the castle of glass - and it's there to kill. When her competitors start dying one by one, Celaena's fight for freedom becomes a fight for survival, and a desperate quest to root out the evil before it destroys her world.

Thoughts on Throne of Glass
So, I've never been a big fantasy reader, but I'm finding more and more to enjoy about the genre since I started blogging. I remember seeing tons of reviews around the blogosphere when Throne of Glass was first published. I noticed that many of them raved about the book, but there were also a number of bloggers who found issues with Celaena's character and other aspects of the book. To be honest, I really wasn't sure how I'd feel about this one. The summary didn't really appeal to me, but I was intrigued enough to buy a copy for my Kindle. And, as is always the case, it just sat there for almost a year.

After seeing Alexa and Kelly rave about this series, I finally decided it was time to take the plunge. Did I mention that at this point Crown of Midnight had been released AND I'd pre-ordered it? Oh yeah, I decided to go ahead and buy the second book without even reading the first. I know, sometimes I have to shake my head at my own crazy. Now that I've read Throne of Glass, I can't believe I waited so long!

Four Things I Loved In This Book:

1. The World Building
Most of the fantasy I've read takes a while to get into the action. The beginning is usually bogged down by the world-building. But not Throne of Glass! This book starts off with a bang, and it just gets better from there. I loved that we're immediately thrown into the story because it kept me from feeling bored or overloaded with information. I was interested and invested in Celaena from the very beginning.

The world and the setting felt so real to me! I could imagine each different part of this place, which is something I really appreciated about this book. My biggest problem with most fantasy books is that world feels so foreign that I become disconnected from the story. Even though this was clearly an imaginary world, I still felt like I "knew" it, in a way.

The only weakness for me here was that the magic element didn't feel fully fleshed out. I know it's important to the story, but I didn't feel like I completely understood why magic had been banned and how it was being used within the world. It wasn't a huge issue - just something that felt like it needed a little more development in order for me to fully get how it fit into the book.

2. The Characters
I can see why not everyone will love these characters. Celaena is arrogant, self-absorbed and somewhat ruthless. She also loves clothing and is prone to dramatics. So, I get that she won't be everyone's cup of tea. But dang, y'all, I loved her! Something about her just won me over right from the start. I loved that she loved to read, that she could fight like nobody's business and that there's something a little off-putting about her.

I did want a little more information about her backstory, but I think I could have gotten it if I'd read the novellas. So, that little hole likely wouldn't bother me if I'd taken the time to read those prequels first.

3. The Romance
There's a love triangle in this one, which is something that can be hit-or-miss. For some reason, this one just worked for me. I don't think it's a perfect triangle, but I still loved the romance. I obviously had a favorite (Chaol! DUH!), but it made me excited to see how this element develops in the later books. I don't think this will be something that everyone will like, but I definitely didn't feel like it detracted from my enjoyment of the story. In some ways, it just enhanced it because I thought both boys were well-developed and intriguing.

4. The Plot
There's so much more to the story than the romance in this one. I really loved the idea of the challenge to become the king's assassin. The competition was intense! I don't want to say much more about the plot, but I really was so caught up in what was happening. From training for the competition to the evil lurking in the castle, there was no way I was going to be able to put this book down once I started.

I did feel like the book would have been a little stronger if there had been a little more attention paid to the competition. There were a few times that I wanted to know more about what was going on - feeling like I didn't get to see the full picture of what was happening. In some ways, there's so much more that could have been told about these events. But, at the same time, I also understand that Maas can only focus on so much without this book getting bogged down in too much detail.

It did take me forever to finally read this book, but I absolutely enjoyed it once I did. There were a few minor things that kept me from rating this as a "loved" - but it came pretty dang close. From the engaging story to the interesting characters, I found a lot to love in Throne of Glass. As soon as I'd finished this one, I immediately started reading Crown of Midnight. I had to know what was going to happen next!

So Quotable
"Library were full of ideas - perhaps the most dangerous and powerful of all weapons."

Make It In The Movies

Oct 18, 2013

Laura Lamont's Life In Pictures by Emma Straub

Release Date: September 4, 2012
Publisher: Penguin | Riverhead Books
Pages: 306 pages
Source & Format: From Kristina; Paperback ARC
Amazon | Goodreads

Summary (from Goodreads)
In 1920, Elsa Emerson, the youngest and blondest of three sisters, is born in idyllic Door County, Wisconsin. Her family owns the Cherry County Playhouse, and more than anything, Elsa relishes appearing onstage, where she soaks up the approval of her father and the embrace of the audience. But when tragedy strikes her family, her acting becomes more than a child's game of pretend.

While still in her teens, Elsa marries and flees to Los Angeles. There she is discovered by Irving Green, one of the most powerful executives in Hollywood, who refashions her as a serious, exotic brunette and renames her Laura Lamont. Irving becomes Laura's great love; she becomes an Academy Award-winning actress - and a genuine movie star. Laura experiences all the glamour and extravagance of the heady pinnacle of stardom in the studio-system era, but ultimately her story is a timeless one of a woman try to balance career, family, and personal happiness, all while remaining true to herself.

Thoughts on Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures
I have been intrigued by Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures ever since I spotted it at the bookstore last year. The summary sounded like something right up my alley - historical fiction, movie stars and the Golden Age of Hollywood. Y'all probably don't know this, but I love classic old movies. I used to be addicted to the Turner Classic Movies channel, and I've got an entire shelf dedicated to my classic movie collection. Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart, Vivien Leigh... I could watch these stars again and again!

In that vein, I'm also in love with reading biographies of famous classic movie stars. There's something so fascinating about finding out about their lives and loves behind the camera. Movie stars could stir up a scandal, even then. So, I was really excited about this book and was thrilled when Kristina offered to send me her copy. I knew that Laura Lamont was a fictional character - not a real actress from the Golden Age - but I was still hoping that Straub would recreate that classic glamour with this character and this story.

Laura Lamont, born Elsa Emerson, was the youngest of three girls. Born in Wisconsin, her parent's owned and operated a playhouse that helped instill in her a love for the stage from a very early age. But tragedy strikes, and the family dynamic is never the same. So, Elsa marries and heads to Los Angeles with her husband, an actor. The marriage is her chance to get away and to leave the pain and sadness behind. She's ready to support her husband in his acting career - perfectly happy to be the lovely wife on his arm. But a powerful movie executive sees more in Elsa... He refashions her into Laura Lamont and helps launch her movie career.

Sounds exciting, right? Unfortunately, this book was missing one thing that was absolutely vital for it to be a good read: an interesting leading lady. For a book and a story like this to work, Laura Lamont needs to come alive. I needed to believe that she could light up a screen, enchant audiences and have that halo of glamour that defined successful actresses in the studio-system era. Instead, Laura Lamont just limps across the page. I didn't feel like her had any spark, any pizzaz, anything to make me invested in the character's story. I had a hard time believing that someone so bland was supposed to be a small-town girl turned starlet. The book is centered around Laura Lamont, and yet I felt like she had the least character development. There's no engagement with her life - it's as if things are just happening to her (or we're being told that they are) rather than her exerting any effort or having any agency or voice.

I also assumed the book would largely focus on the heyday of her career. Instead, the book is a collection of moments throughout her life. A brief introduction to Laura when she's Elsa, a glimpse into her first marriage, some reflections on her stardom and then a huge portion is dedicated to her life after her career has fizzled out. The novels ambition - to follow Laura throughout her life - felt like one of it's biggest weaknesses. I would have preferred a book that focused on a small period of time in depth rather than try to portray so much in way that just skims the surface.

There's very little attention given to major historical events during those time periods, and there's also very little dialogue. It left my feeling like Laura was disconnected from reality. The lack of dialogue made it feel heavy and slow, which is shame because so many movies from that era had really quick, clever dialogue that was so smart. Just watch a scene from His Girl Friday starring Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell to see what I mean. This book had the chance to really showcase what was so great about movies created at that time while also showcasing the negatives of being an actor during the studio-system era. Straub briefly touches on what it was like to be stuck in a studio contract, with your every action controlled by executives, but it's just a minor mention in the larger story of Laura's life.

I wanted so badly to like this book, so it makes me really sad that it ended up reading like a really boring biography of someone with no personality and who didn't change at all in their entire lifetime. It's an ambitious attempt that didn't live up to expectations due to cardboard characters, lack of focus, too much exposition and not enough dialogue. You want classic Hollywood scandal and glamour? I'd advise you to look elsewhere. It's a shame that a book set during a time period I find so fascinating only left me feeling incredibly detached.

So Quotable
"That was what love was, though, wasn't it? Holding each other's misery as close as your own?"

So Obsessed With: The Fall Edition

Oct 17, 2013

Some of my favorite posts are ones where bloggers highlight the products they're loving lately or the things they're currently coveting. Posts like that always put new products on my radar and give me great ideas for gifts! I love this kind of content so much that I decided to start incorporating it into my blog by highlighting my loves and lusts each season. Rather than give it a creative name, I thought my blog name was more fitting. So, here's what I'm so obsessed with this fall:
1. Lush Sugar Scrub ($6.25) - My mom bought me this scrub a few weeks ago, and now I'm in love with it. The sugar helps exfoliate, fennel and ginger stimulate circulation, and lavender adds a calming effect. I loved the scent AND the way it made my skin feel!

2. Essie After School Boy Blazer ($8) - I love dark nail polish colors for fall, and this is the one I've been rocking lately! The dark navy blue is almost black - a gorgeous, dark color that's goes perfectly with the cooler weather.

3. Tocca Giulietta Crema da Mano Luxe ($20) - I don't own this lotion yet, but I've had my eye on it for a while. I absolutely LOVE Tocca's scents - they are the only perfumes I'll wear. My personal favorite is Brigitte, but I can't wait to get my hands on this lotion in Giulietta!

4. Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette ($27) - I'm constantly changing up the way I wear my eye makeup, but I've found myself using this palette more and more this season. The neutral matte colors are subtle and perfect for a "barely there" look.

5. Sugar Rosé Lip Treatment ($22.50) - I'm not a huge lipstick person, but I know that my lips get dry and cracked as the temperatures cool. I love this lip balm, especially the much-needed hint of color it adds to my lips!

6. Alsace Cardi ($128) - I want this sweater so bad, y'all. I just love the length and the colors! As a tall girl, I'm always drawn to long and flowy pieces like this, and I'm already adding this to my Christmas wishlist.

7. Emersyn Weekender ($148) - I've been on the lookout for the perfect weekender bag, and I know I finally found The One! The light brown leather accents and light gold shimmer are to die for and would be perfect for a short trip to the mountains.

8. Laced Chambray Popover ($88) - I'm pretty sure this is the chambray shirt I've been waiting for! I can never find one that's exactly what I've got in mind, but I love this one's light washed color and small lace accents. It takes a simple, classic piece to a whole different level!
9. Point Duchesse Pitcher ($48) - I don't really need a pitcher, but I wouldn't say no to this one. My everyday dishes are cream, but I've mixed in some colorful bowls from Anthropologie to add a little spice. I can just picture this completing the look!

10. Bupo Cookie Jar ($39.95) - I rarely make cookies, but I think this little buddy would make the perfect addition to my kitchen. Plus, maybe he would inspire me to do a little more baking!

11. Katie Daisy Stars Print ($18) - This is probably my favorite Etsy shop EVER, and I am constantly finding more prints I want from this artist. I already own two, and I couldn't resist snagging this print a few weeks ago. Now I just have to frame it and find the perfect place to hang it! The quote, the colors, the artistry... It's perfection!
12. Across A Star-Swept Sea, Allegiant and The Fiery Heart ($18-20 each) - These are my three most coveted fall releases! I have been dying for them to be released since they each belong to a series and have me dying to know what will happen next or how everything will be resolved.

13. Catching Fire - There aren't even enough words to tell you how much I can't wait for this movie! I loved the first one and am really curious about how having a new director will impact the films. I never go to midnight premieres, but I'm seriously considering it for this movie.

14. Ed Sheeran + (Deluxe Version) ($9.99) - Listen, I know this CD is two years old. And I don't know why it took me this long to actually listen to it but I'm now obsessed. I know I'm late to the love, but I just don't care. I've had this on repeat since I bought it a few weeks ago. Seriously. I cannot get enough.

15. Gold Peak Lemonade Iced Tea and Darrell Lea Soft Eating Strawberry Licorice (Under $5) - Don't mind me, I'm just falling in love with these two products. The lemonade iced tea is delicious and totally makes me reconsider my Diet Coke addiction. It's just that good. And the licorice? HOLY COW. I'm not a huge licorice fan, but I could eat a whole bag of this in one sitting. Yum, yum, yum.

16. The Vampire Diaries: The Complete Fourth Season - I know not every is a fan of this show OR this particular season, but I've become addicted. I started watching The Vampire Diaries this summer, and I raced through all four seasons within a few weeks. I just bought these DVDs, and I know what I'll be re-watching this fall!

17. Nixon "The Sentry" Leather Strap Watch ($125) - The mister already has a silver watch that's on the dressy side, but I've got my eye on this simple leather watch for a more casual look. I love the size - a somewhat thinner band and smaller face. It's simple and classic, which I just love.

18. Up Country Whale Lead ($21) - We already have the collar that matches this lead, so we just need this to complete the look! I love the navy and lime green colors, and I think the whales are so adorably preppy. The pup looks so handsome and stylish - and they're really durable, too!

19. Majestic Pet Zig Zag Round Bed ($125) - We've got a dog bed for the pupper in our bedroom, but I've been keeping an eye out for one that could stay in the living room. I love this simple brown chevron print, which would go perfectly with the tan and greens in that room of my house.

20. Timberland Cutwater Jacket ($148) - Fall weather means it's time to break out a jacket! The temperatures don't usually drop too low in Georgia, so it's nice to have a lighter jacket on hand for those cooler fall evenings. I love the simplicity of this jacket and know it would go with so many things my mister wears!
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Best SEO Agencies in Bulgaria5 agencies
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Out of stock
Mandatory Reality - excerpt

Joshua Abrams, Natural Information Society

Mandatory Reality (2xLP)

Label: Eremite

Format: LPx2

Genre: Experimental

Out of stock

Small repress. Double LP version. LPs pressed on premium audiophile-quality vinyl at RTI from Kevin Gray Lacquers; Presented in a textured gatefold Stoughton "laserdisc" jacket with a cover painting by Lisa Alvarado. Jackets, retro-audiophile sleeves and record labels hand-screen printed by Alan Sherry at Siwa Studios, Northern New Mexico.

Mandatory Reality, the new album by Joshua Abrams and Natural Information Society, is here. Setting aside (for the moment) the electric instrumentation of Simultonality (GB 048CD/MTE 068LP, 2017) and Magnetoception (MTE 063-64LP, 2015), Joshua Abrams conceived Mandatory Reality for an eight-piece acoustic manifestation of NIS, consisting of himself on guimbri, Lisa Alvarado on harmonium and gongs, Mikel Avery on tam-tam and gongs, Ben Boye on autoharp and piano, Hamid Drake on tabla and tar, Ben Lamar Gay on cornet, Nick Mazzarella on alto saxophone, and Jason Stein on bass clarinet.

A double album, Mandatory Reality is comprised largely of two performances, both Joshua Abrams compositions, 24- and 40-minutes in length. While new to the band's records, long duration pieces are familiar to those who've heard Joshua Abram and NIS in concert in recent years, where elaboration on a single composition for an hour or more is not unusual. Gradual tempos dominate Mandatory Reality. Recorded two months before the 2017 solar eclipse, Mandatory Reality is the sound of Joshua Abrams and NIS taking its time. Merging methodical compositions with sonically voluptuous orchestration, Abrams heightens the immersive and hypnotic qualities Abram and NIS music is known for, taking the band and the listener deep into a collective meditative space. A grand realization of long-form psychedelic music, Mandatory Reality is a dispatch from a sound world that is increasingly unique to itself.

All performances on Mandatory Reality are full takes recorded live to tape by the full ensemble, magnificently captured by Greg Norman at electrical audio, Chicago -- the first true "audiophile" recording of Joshua Abrams and NIS. Mastered by Helge Sten at Audio Virus, Oslo.

Cat. number: MTE 070-71LP
Year: 2019


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    Drawmer's affordable EQ brings a '70s vibe to your studio.

    Reviews Mar 2020
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    Hendy Amps Michelangelo

    Stereo Valve EQ

    Offering both controllable coloration and three interactive bands of EQ, the Michelangelo aims to deliver something a little different.

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    Stereo Bus Compressor

    Based on a classic design and bursting with transformers, the Successor from Heritage Audio combines a vintage sound with serious flexibility.

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    Sonic Farm Xcalibur JC

    Valve Preamplifier & Saturation Processor

    With its ability to deliver anything from super-subtle saturation to downright despicable distortion, could this be the only valve preamp you'll ever need?

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    Niio Analog Iotine Core 4

    Filter & Distortion Effects Processor

    This all-analogue processor is designed to massage, mangle and mutilate your audio.

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    Stereo Compressor

    This clever design rethinks many aspects of compressors that we've long taken for granted.

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    Is Trinnov's powerful hardware system the last word in monitor correction?

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    Eventide H9000

    Digital Multi-effects Processor

    Eventide's most powerful ever Harmonizer crams half a century of effects know‑how into a unit that's elegant, easy to use and — thanks to its upgradeability — completely futureproof.

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    Microphone Preamplifier & EQ

    Find out how just how well this vintage recreation compares with the original that inspired it.

    Reviews Apr 2019
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    UK Sound 176

    Mono FET Compressor

    We take a look at the first in a new, more affordable range of products from BAE.

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    Black Lion Audio Seventeen

    FET Compressor

    We put BLA’s feature-rich and keenly priced 1176-style compressor to the test.

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    Retro Instruments Revolver

    Dual-channel Valve Compressor

    Retro set their sights on modernising a classic design from the golden age of recording — did they hit their target?

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    Tegeler Audio Manufaktur Crème

    VCA Compressor & Passive Equaliser

    This combination of Pultec-inspired stereo mastering EQ and VCA bus compressor could earn its keep in a wide range of situations.

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    Black Lion Audio Bluey

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    Black Lion's Bluey recreates an 1176 that has made more hits than most!

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    Black Lion Audio Seventeen

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    Summer NAMM 18: Black Lion Seventeen

    US-assembled 1176-style compressor for $649

    We check out the new 1176-style rackmount compressor from Black Lion Audio. For only $649, there's a lot...

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• Tirumalai Tirupathi

Tirumalai Tirupati Devasthanam...

Sri Venkateshwara (Balaji - One of the representation of Lord Vishnu) Temple is situated at the Thirumala Hills is one of the biggest pilgrim centres in the country. The temple is situated at an altitude of 2800 ft among the seven sacred hills that symbolizes the seven headed serpent God Adishesha on whole coils where Vishnu sleeps.

The main temple is a masterpiece of the Dravidian architecture with its main tower facing the east was built in the 9th century and later renovated in the 15th century. People in distress take vows to visit Lord Vishnu by offering their hair to the deity. It is believed that since hair enhances a person's appearance, shaving it off sheds vanity as well.

This offering is usually made after the fulfillment of a wish. The hair offerings are later exported to US and Japan where they are made into wigs. The temple attracts an average of 25000 pilgrims a day and around 100000 pilgrims on festival days.

Sri Venkateshwara Temple

Quick Glimpses:

The temple kept open throughout the day and night till from 2:30 am to 1:30 am.

The cost of the Special entry ticket is Rs.300/-

Special Entry Darshan Timings:

Saturday,Sunday, Monday

4.00 am to 5.00 am , 7.00 am to 6.00 pm and 9.00 pm to upto Ekanthaseva (The last darshan).

Tuesday, Wednesday

08.30 am to 01.00 pm.

09.00 am to 6.00 pm and 9.00 pm to upto Ekanthaseva.

10.00 am to 6.00 pm and 9.00 pm to upto Ekanthaseva.

Pick/Choose any Tour from left for Itinerary


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Top Hat - tan shag fur felt

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Top Hat - tan shag fur felt

Great men's tan shag fur felt top hat.  Made of long nap fur felt.  Size 7 1/8 regular oval.  Features a London maker's label and calfskin sweatband.  Second to none attention to detail and construction!

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FFB 100 - 8" Structural Firefighter Station/Duty Boots

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lips before and after fat transfer

Fat Transfer

When it comes to restoring youthful volume in the face, many patients want a more natural alternative to synthetic fillers or silicone implants.

Fat transfer uses your own tissue to safely enhance hollow areas or plump thin lips. It can also be used for breast or buttock augmentation

So it’s not just for Brazilian butt lift?

lips before and after fat transfer

More and More Patients Are Turning to Fat Transfer

Versatile Enhancement

The treatment can literally be applied to any area of concern, from hollow cheeks to disproportionately sized breasts. It can even be used for scar revision.

Minimally Invasive

Because implants require incisions, patients may be left with scars. In contrast, fat transfer is an injectable treatment and produces no scarring in the injection site.

Simultaneously Slim Your Figure

As an added bonus, areas from which the fat is harvested, such as the abdomen, upper thighs, or hips, are precisely contoured with liposuction.

Growing in Popularity Year after Year

41% increase in 2016Fat transfer to the breasts, often referred to as natural breast augmentation, saw the most significant increase of any cosmetic surgery procedure in 2016.

*According to The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Can I Afford It?

The cost of fat transfer can fall within a huge range. Patients who are treating the face, for example, could pay anywhere from $350-5,000. There is simply no way to estimate your cost until a surgeon has assessed your goals. Even if your treatment cost seems high, most plastic surgeons accept flexible financing plans. Consider what you spend on eating out in one month. Some plans could bring your monthly payment down to a comparable rate.

Enhance Your Look in Three Simple Steps

Your doctor will numb the donor site and gently remove excess fat using low-suction liposuction. This will help to preserve the integrity of the fat cells. They may use a specialized type of very thin cannula, or tube, or a small-gauge needle.

noun_1600418_ff0004Created with Sketch.

Next, the tissue is cleansed and purified. It will be placed in a centrifuge to separate the healthy, whole fat cells from damaged cells and other tissue.

To complete the procedure, your doctor will simply inject the purified fat into the treatment area.

Consult a Doctor to Learn More

If you want a minimally invasive treatment that carries no risk of allergic reaction, fat transfer could be the solution. However, it cannot be performed on patients who lack sufficient excess fat. And while the results can be long-lasting, your doctor may recommend implants for more predictable and permanent results. You may also find that dermal fillers, such as Restylane® and Juvéderm®, can achieve your goals but they will require periodic touch-ups.

Patients who choose not to place synthetic materials in their body can still enhance their looks. Speak with a doctor to learn whether fat transfer can bring out your best face and figure

SP Plastic Surgery, LLC

Dr. Stephanie Peng is a board-certified plastic surgeon who closely partners with every patient to achieve their aesthetic goals. She is affiliated with various national organizations, including:

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Together with Dr. Jennifer Harrington, she provides patients with life-changing surgical care and transformative results. To request a consultation with our doctors, contact our Plymouth office online or call us at (763) 999-4170.

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High Fashion Meets Vintage NASA in New 'Coach Space' Collection

NASA is having a fashion moment. Or, perhaps more accurately, fashion is having a NASA moment. Hot on the heels of Chanel's interstellar-themed fashion show and mock rocket launch in March, Coach is showcasing a cosmically inspired collection of its own.

Part of the new "Coach Space" collection, The Rogue is a pebble-leather bag decked out in retro NASA patches. ($895 at (Image credit: Coach)

An ode to "American dreamers and explorers who believe that anything is possible," the luxury brand's pre-fall "Coach Space" capsule collection features an array of purses, accessories and ready-to-wear clothing plastered with retro-futuristic iconography, including NASA's old "worm" insignia and space shuttles — lots of space shuttles.

This "space intarsia" sweater by Coach features an Apollo rocket motif with asteroids and stars. ($695 at (Image credit: Coach)

Other items in the spaced-out collection show UFOs bearing phrases like "I Believe" and "We Come in Peace," and a helmet-wearing, jetpack-toting dinosaur named Rexy (because why not?). [Photos: Out-of-this-World Fashion at Couture in Orbit]

Some joke that the dinosaurs went extinct because they never made it to space before an asteroid could wipe them out. Well, Coach is giving dinosaurs another chance at space with their new space-themed collection of clothing and accessories. This Tyrannosaurus Rex hangtag is one of the more affordable items of the line. ($35 at (Image credit: Coach)

There are bag charms that feature a rotating Saturn with silver-plated rings, chunky pebbled-leather high-tops emblazoned with astronaut motifs, gauzy cotton-and-silk scarves that spell out NASA in myriad floral prints, and a patch-emblazoned version of Coach's signature "Rogue" bag. Imagine swag from Space Camp, but curated by Gwyneth Paltrow.

If you believe in UFOs and high-fashion bag charms, this new accessory by Coach was made for you. ($75 at
 (Image credit: Coach)

And fans of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining"? You can finally sport little Danny Torrance's Apollo 11 sweater, albeit for a stratospheric $695.

Geek cred doesn't always come cheap.

Explore the rest of the "Coach Space" collection online

Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at:


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Expert Voices

ExoMars Rover Will Drill Deep Into Mars to Search for Life (Op-Ed)

This article was originally published at The Conversation. The publication contributed the article to's Expert Voices: Op-Ed.

Finding past or present microbial life on Mars would without doubt be one of the greatest scientific discoveries of all time. And in just two years' time, there's a big opportunity to do so, with two rovers launching there to look for signs of life – Mars2020 by NASA and ExoMars by the European Space Agency and Roscosmos.

I am helping to develop one of the instruments for the ExoMars rover, which will be Europe's first attempt to land a mobile platform on the red planet. It will also be the first rover to drill into the martian crust to a depth of two metres.

But the rover will not be the first to look for evidence of life. The Viking landers sent by NASA in the 1970s carried experiments designed to so. They were ultimately unsuccessful, but provided a wealth of information about Mars' geology and atmosphere that comes in handy now. In fact, exploration over the last half-century has shown us that early Mars was once a dynamic and potentially habitable planet.

ExoMars prototype rover. (Image credit: Mike Peel/Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)

While it is not completely impossible that life could exist on Mars today, ExoMars is primarily focused on looking for extinct life. Because there's a risk it could contaminate the planet with microbes from Earth, it is not allowed to go near the sites where we think it's possible that microbes could exist today.

Chemofossils are the best bet

On Earth, life constantly unfurls around us, leaving its mark on our planet every day. There are, however, a number of factors to contend with when looking for life on Mars. The first is that the lifeforms we are looking for are single-celled microorganisms, invisible to the naked eye. This is because life on Mars is unlikely to have progressed any further down the evolutionary path. This is actually not so strange – Earth itself was a world of single-celled life for two billion years or more.

Another issue is that the life we're looking for would have existed three or four billion years ago. A lot can happen in that time – rocks preserving this evidence can be eroded away and redeposited, or buried deep beyond reach. Luckily, Mars does not have plate tectonics – the constant shifting about and recycling of the crust that we have on Earth – which means it's a geological time capsule.

Because we are looking for evidence of long-dead microorganisms, the hunt for bio-signatures lies in the detection and identification of organic "chemofossils" – compounds that are left behind by the decomposition of life. These are different to organic compounds delivered to planets on the backs of meteorites, or those, such as methane, that can be produced by both geological and biological processes. No single compound will prove life once existed.

Rather, it will be distinctive patterns present in any organic compounds discovered that betray their biological origin. Lipids and amino acids, for example, are fundamental components to living things, but are also found in certain meteorites. The difference lies in finding evidence that shows a process of selection. Lipids left behind by degraded cell membranes will likely have a limited size range, and comprise an even number of carbons. Similarly, amino acids naturally exist in both left-handed and right-handed forms (like gloves), but for some reason life only uses the left-handed ones.

It is also possible for microorganisms to produce visible fossils in the rock record. When conditions allow, microbial mats (multilayered communities of microorganisms) can become interspersed with fine sediment, producing characteristic morphological structures in rocks that form subsequently. However, the specific environmental conditions required for this mean such deposits are unlikely to be discovered by a rover exploring just one small region of a whole planet.

Microbial mat on Earth. (Image credit: Alicejmichel/wikipedia, CC BY-SA)

So, the best bet will be looking for organic compounds, a task which falls to the Mars Organic Molecule Analyser (MOMA) – the largest instrument in the ExoMars rover payload.

One intriguing finding from the Viking landers was the absence of detectable organic compounds at the martian surface. This was unexpected – many organic compounds are found throughout the solar system that do not form through biological activity. Subsequent missions revealed that a combination of harsh chemistry and intense radiation effectively remove much of the organic material from the surface of Mars, regardless of its origin.

But more recently NASA’s Curiosity rover has begun to find some simple organic compounds, hinting at what may lie beneath. By analysing samples brought up from below the surface, MOMA will have a better shot at finding those organic biosignatures that have survived the ravages of time.

Confusing contamination

Before any search for biosignatures even begins, however, ExoMars will first need to find the right rocks. The landing sites shortlisted for the mission have, in part, been chosen based on their geological characteristics, including their age (more than 3.6 billion years old).

Panorama of Mars taken by the Opportunity rover. (Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Malin Space Science Systems)

If MOMA identifies organic molecules within the samples brought up by the drill, one of the first things will be to establish whether they are the result of contamination by any rogue Earth-based organics. While ExoMars is looking for alien life, it is designed to look for life that is based on the same fundamental chemistry as life on Earth. On one hand, this means highly sensitive instruments like MOMA can be designed that target biosignatures that we have a good understanding of, and therefore increase the likelihood that ExoMars will be a success.

The downside is that these instruments are also sensitive to life and organic molecules on Earth. To ensure terrestrial organic or microbiological stowaways are minimised, the rover and its instruments are built and assembled inside ultra clean rooms. Once on Mars, the rover will run a number of "blank" samples, which will show what, if any, contamination may be present.

Ultimately, finding strong evidence of extinct life on Mars, whether it be chemofossils or something more visible, will be just the first step. As with most scientific discoveries, it will be a gradual process, with evidence building up layer by layer until no other explanation exists. If the NASA Mars2020 rover also finds similarly tantalising evidence, then these discoveries will represent a step change in our understanding of life in general. And, while incredibly unlikely, it is of course possible that ExoMars chances upon some living martian microorganisms.

Whether ExoMars hits the jackpot remains to be seen, but at the very least it will mark a new beginning for the search for life on Mars.

Claire Cousins, Research Fellow in Planetary Science, University of St Andrews

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. Follow all of the Expert Voices issues and debates — and become part of the discussion — on Facebook, Twitter and Google +. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. This version of the article was originally published on

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Jul 14, 2012, 19:34 IST

Why sex is a dirty word in India

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Why is sex such a dirty word in India? You just mention it before anyone – your moral credentials will be at risk. Contemptuous gazes shall meet your eyes. The unspoken message that you receive is somewhat like – you are a sexual maniac, be away from me.

It’s a different story that those frowning upon you for mentioning such a unholy word are likely to miss no chance to derive sexual pleasure of no mean sort by looking at amorous pics of wannabe female or male models on net.

All Bollywood, Tollywood masala films are full of sexual content. The big money raked in by these movies at theatres is a clear indicator of great Indian appetite for all things sexual.

On switching on your TV channel, you are likely to be narrated sexual exploits of some Swami or other, our revered custodian of religion. Were some time ago, Swamis, Yogis and legislators not caught live on camera having a tryst with sex? Allegedly video tapes of Narayan Dutt Tiwari, respected governor of a state, having extra-marital sexual affair with a lady were televised. Swami Nithyananda gained notoriety more as a paramour than publicity as a spiritual head when a footage showing the Swamiji in compromising position with a popular Tamil actress was released by

Sun News on Tuesday, Mar 2, 2010 exposing former’s sexual tantric lessons to lady disciples. Many legislators were caught on camera surfing pornographic material during a legislative session.

Couples enjoying as simple an act as an innocuous kiss in public places are reported to have been put behind bars by police in India. In the West, no one cares as to whom you kiss or not in a park or on a roadside. It’s no one’s business to interfere in someone’s individual freedom.

May be the scientifically advanced West had advantage of Renaissance era that changed a feudalistic European and Victorian society to a more liberalized open modern rational one based on the just principles of liberty, equality and fraternity.

No doubt, we had social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy who toiled all their lives to turn pre-independence India into a scientific rational society. Their herculean work did have some impact like widow remarriage is no more a taboo.

True, independent India today is deemed to be the emerging super power of millennium. Country has earned international accolades by successfully landing Chandrayan on Moon.

Sorry to say, India is still living in 12th century retrograde medieval era on front of human dignity instead of 21st century despite all its much touted super status, all its malls, multiplexes, metros, Marutis, Santro cars and global software monopoly.

Sex in itself isn’t a dirty word. Sexual energy is what drives whole cosmos. No man is said to be complete without a woman and vice-versa.

Indians have long been celebrating celestial synergy of Shiva and Shakti, Krishna and Radha, male and female energies. Lingam and Yoni, sacred symbols of male and female energy are worshiped even today in our temples. No one scoffs at these obviously sexual symbols. Why then this hypocrisy surrounding sex in public places in India?

Sigmund Freud, famous modern psychologist named sexual energy as libido present in each human. This libido drives us, he said. Writers, painters and other creative geniuses are famous for having channelized their libido constructively in terms of their socially acceptable creative works.

Suppression of sexual urge causes behavioral disorders. Rapists are best examples. More you make sex taboo more curiosity it shall generate. Healthy frank expression of sexual urge shapes all round personality. Correct knowledge and guidance on sex at an early age to children makes them less prone to carry out unhealthy sexual encounters out of otherwise repressed curiosity.

It does help being well informed on sex. Sex-education helps better communication amongst adults, all the more between husband and wife. Sexual problems like AIDS can be dealt with more effectively if healthy awareness about sex related issues is allowed in our society.

Frankness and awareness about sex is real indicator of health of any society. Is anyone listening?

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15 Tips for Cutting Costs at Your Next Event

Yes, costs are going up, but you can take steps to shield your budget. Here are 15 smart strategies.

Rising costs are in the forecast for events and meetings, but you can baby your budget with simple strategies. Our colleagues at MeetingsNet offer 15 painless practices:

Everyone’s in the same doing-more-with-less situation and eager for new ideas to stretch the budget. At the Financial and Insurance Conference Professionals Annual Conference in Orlando this week, a packed educational session provided attendees a chance to share their cost-saving strategies. Here are 15 of our favorites:

1. Talk to the hotel chef about designing a menu that avoids the most common allergens and takes the food preferences of your group into consideration. If your banquet menu has no gluten, nuts, eggs, milk, and shellfish, for example, you’ll save money over having to plan for a variety of different meals to meet attendees' needs. Times have changed: Most people won’t complain about a vegetarian lunch.

2. Follow the TED Talks. Fascinating speakers from all walks of life take to the TED stage, most of whom aren’t on the traditional speakers’ circuit and very well might be less expensive than a professional speaker or celebrity.

3.  Don’t serve a plated dessert. Many people won’t eat it anyway …. MeetingsNet

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All Good Things Are Wild and Free 1,000-Piece Puzzle

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A new 1,000 piece puzzle from Flow, the international brand that celebrates mindfulness, creativity, and the simple pleasures in life.

This puzzle, featuring an exclusive illustration by Dutch artist Valesca van Waveren, is inspired by the words “All good things are wild and free,” written by Henry David Thoreau in Walking. As you complete the puzzle, piece by piece, you may be reminded of the simple joys of being in nature: a traveling snail, a fruiting tree, the hum of a grasshopper, sparkling constellations, the strong trunk of an oak…

            By Lewis Carroll
            Illustrated by Rebecca Sorge

            Publication date: April 10, 2020

            ISBN: 9781523509379

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Knowing Ivan Usov, winner of the Best Confinement Tuto, in 7 questions

Ivan Usov is a bartender and flair expert from Russia. Since 2008 he has been mixing and juggling with his shaker in the bartending scene.

He is also the big winner of the final of our contest Best Confinement Tuto (CONFINEMENT BARTENDER CONTEST). We got the opportunity to know Ivan a little more in 7 questions. Read the interview below.

SPIRITS HUNTERS: 1. Where are you originally from?

IVAN USOV: I live in St. Petersburg. This is the most beautiful and inspirational city of Russia

2 – How long have you been a bartender?

I have been working as a bartender since 2008. My favorite direction is flaring and show. In 2018 and 2019 I won the Roadhouse World Flair in tandem, as well as many competitions in solo. I also enjoy making creative videos. But more importantly in my work, the most important thing is the emotions of the audience.

3 – What brought you to the world of bartending / what inspired you to become a bartender?

Bartending is a very broad area. I think that any creative bartender can find a niche for himself to create something new and unusual.

4 – What have you discovered about yourself being a bartender?

Working in a bar, I realized that I like being in the spotlight, although I have always been a humble person. I started developing showman and flairing skills, which gave me great fame and the ability to travel every month and create new things.

5 – How is the situation in your city/country regarding Covid?

For me Covid was a great opportunity to change my mindset and create a lot of new videos. Also I understood a lot about the Russian government…

6 – What inspired you to make the video you’ve sent us for the Confinement Bartender Contest?

It was a project which I already wanted to make the whole year. I searched people who can help me with my idea and finally i did it 😉

7 – Is your bar open today?

I’m not working behind a bar. Only events, shows and online projects. 🙌

Thank you Ivan! And congratulations again on winning the BEST CONFINEMENT TUTO  – CONFINEMENT BARTENDER CONTEST!

Ivan Usov’s Winning Recipe

“Bartender Symphony” Cocktail

Bourbon – 45ml
Lemon juice – 20ml
Homemade Tepache syrup* – 20ml
Egg powder – 1g
Method: Shake & Strain
Glass: Champagne saucer
Garnish: Lemon peel

✔Tepache syrup Recipe:
Pineapple peel 300g.
Pineapple 100g.
Cinnamon 1 stick
Clove 4 pieces
Sugar 250g.
Water 500ml.
Put all ingredients together and leave for 2 days.
Then vaporise it to a syrup-like consistency.

🧊Perfect ice
Pour water into the foam container and put it in the freezer. Get out before it is completely frozen! You get perfect clear ice!

You can follow Ivan Usov bartending skills and shaker adventures via his Instagram accounts:

Don’t drink and drive. Enjoy responsibly.

Join the community on Reddit

Spirits Hunters is a community dedicated to spirits and the world of mixology. Feel free to talk about the world of mixology and bartending here!


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The Wait is Over!

YES! Our blog is finally up! *applause please* This is just a start, so do check us out every now and then for more good stuff. Oh and don’t forget to like us on Facebook if you haven’t already done so! 🙂

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