My Grandfather's an Immigrant, and So Is Yours by Michael Chin

I was approached by Booktasters in connecting me with the author for an honest review.

Let me first start by saying how much I enjoyed reading this book. Albeit, it took me a long time to complete it due to work obligations. However, the premise of this book is very much written like a Literary Fiction to me. 

Things I like:
Chapter-less book
This is straight up storytelling at its best! Very clever way of engaging his reader. It keeps you wanting to know more. Also, you're in his head all the time. Not many authors are able to pull it off this way by allowing his readers to be engaged throughout the entire book without a single chapter division. Refreshing!

Character Development
First, I thought I'm reading a Mike's autobiography instead, or Billy. I have a question for him, how much of it is his story while he was growing up? The reading experience feels very personal and raw. That sentiment of nostalgia hits right through the heart as I was reading the book. There were so much things that I could relate to him whilst I was growing up with a twin half Chinese half Caucasian friends myself.

[I am so delighted to have the author's response to my question, thank you Michael! :-
"And to answer the embedded question about autobiographical elements, while the overarching plot is fiction, a lot of pieces do derived directly from my lived experience. I’m a couple decades older than Billy, but his upbringing as a minority in a homogeneously white small town, friendships, and intense crush on someone he doesn’t really know are elements directly inspired by my life."]

Secondly, his family dynamics is what I like most. Especially Grandpa. Eccentric in a good way since most of the Asian grandparents react the same way as how Mike depicts it. For example, silent agreement, diplomatically passive… etc to name a few.

The entire bunch of Boil Crew was my favourite. How much they grew together despite their differences. Who got together with whom. And their ever enriching idiosyncrasy boil! has always been fun with reactions visibly written.

Plot Development
Here lies the development of a love interest until it's very anti-climactic reality about a person we used to form in our mind when we like someone. It's a very familiar ground where the minds runs wild about a person until we speak to them. And there was a change in pacing and writing style towards the last few pages? I don't mean it in a bad way, but it kept me going really fast and so much so I enjoy how much Billy has moved on and grow.

It is a beautiful journey you'll enjoy it from the eyes of Billy Chen.

Overall, would I recommend it? Of course! This is my first ever chapter-less book and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you Mike, it is such a privilege to read such a beautiful story. It's just not getting enough traction! Keep it up, Mike!

Goodreads Review

In the Beginning by John J. Higgins (The Archangel Jarahmael and the War to Conquer Heaven)

I was approached by Booktasters in connecting me with the author for an honest review.

Personally, I'm a big Bible nerd. That being said, from this stand point, it doesn't deviate my opinions when I'm reading fictionalised Biblical events. To be honest, I would never have thought that the events of the creation can be fictionally written at this scale.

Truthfully, Higgins knows the chronological events in Genesis extremely well. That being said, there are definite loop holes which allow him to play around with by filling in with his work of art to much delight. This is a definite supernatural fantasy genre that is really up my alley.

Things I like:

World Building
I enjoyed how the Creation took place progressively. And this is what I like about how the world building was written, he did not take for granted that his readers knows about the events of the creation and allow his readers to experience how the Almighty beautifully does it majestically. Guiding us through like a cinematic montage. Very well done, I might say.

Character Development
The Almighty itself might sound a little too human but then again, admittedly we will never know how He's going to sound like. Still a good representation of how the Almighty plays the subtle role yet the writing for His omnipresence is just the right amount. Not too much and not too over powerful.

What dominates the entire book here are the types of angels introduced to us. Specifically the archangels. Very well planned in developing their characteristics with different sets of voices whereby readers are able to clearly differentiate it. Jarahmael's character resonates with me a lot more as the book progresses.

There was one character that I am very still very much curious about is, Lilith. She is still a mystery to me until now. Which made me want to know more about what's the outcome of her role in this series.

Plot
The plot was predictable which leads up the fall of mankind. The deception plan was one I would have never thought out to be as such but then again, it was very well thought out. There were stuff like the pyramids built within Eden and outside of it. I wonder what's the purpose of having these pyramids for.

Overall, I would recommend this book and to advise Christians to read it with an open mind. It's really interesting how Higgins shaped the all well-known creation events with such an interesting turn. Radical Christians might call it a blasphemy, but this to me it's an interesting take altogether!

I really don't mind reading the entire series to get to know what happened next.

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads Review Link

REVIEW: The Son by Pangdemonium - 2020

As I was approaching the art centre, I can hear a cheerful cry of this little toddler boy playing catch with his dad that was really pronounced. The sound of a playful endearment with his dad knowing that his father is going to catch him up with a big hug draws a lasting smile on my face as I was staring over the poster of "The Son" whom the father was hugging his troubled son.

But what really caught my attention was this board that printed a slogan ""Unite Against Mental Health Stigma" - Share your words of encouragement and support for your loved ones and persons in recovery." And that itself, speaks a thousand words of awareness. 

This play not only targets the social concerns of today but it is definitely something to be applauded by the society for it's effort and duty for being a catalyst by educating the society what it means to have someone with mental health deficiency. We know, in the Asian context, mental health is always a taboo, a negative connotation to be a centre of acceptance today. Nevertheless, Adrian and Tracie Pang's bold initiative to convey something so poignant is what deemed courageous!

I hereby took the initiative to review this play in a local art scene here in Singapore, would be a good exposure (for me) and also an exercise for me on how the performing arts is like over here as compared to my home country, Malaysia. The old saying has always coined out our similarities that is so uncanny but that was 30 - 40 years ago. I will remain silence on the differences for the good of The Son's review. 

This play was so cleverly written by a French novelist & playwright, Florian Zeller (Translated by Christopher Hampton) in which it was so highly acclaimed that it won him numerous awards. Hereinafter, we were fortunate enough to have it here at our doorstep by experiencing it with such honor. Technically, the stage and sets were arranged with linear perspective, and it was strategically so to cater for such a dynamic story line.

Magnificently, the casts of 6 beautiful actors gave the audiences a spellbinding performance, and all the more, they did not disappoint with that span of 2 hours. Honestly, it doesn't feel like it was 2 hours at all. And I must confess, it's really a heavy subject to comprehend or maybe to digest and they gave it their all with such a beautifully gut wrenching performance to be dealt with. All of them should be highly commended with the highest regards! Not easy!

They have conveyed with clarity, I understood.

Their portrayal was raw and true, I cried.

The show has imparted with a strong messages, I received with privilege.

Regardless on how I couldn't bring myself to laugh when their jokes and punch lines were executed and they were truly on point. "The Son" has brought me to tears so much so, I have to look away from the stage. The flashbacks on my painful memories has brought forth a taste of nostalgia that no one could ever asked for, then again it strengthens the weak when we knew what good has came out of it (ONLY when we seek help)!

Mental health is never to be taken lightly, and I for one, was living with one in such a circumstance. Adversely, the closest among these victims are their family members, and vast majority, the ones that are in heavy denial are the family members and this play portrays it so disgustingly true. It bares the ugliness of how we human reacts to such a turmoil.

Few factors within the our community that are heavily in denial with this subject matter and it is because to them, it's shameful, or maybe it's a disgrace or the notional myth of generational curses. All of this screams, Taboo. Hence, the should-be victim's number one supporter tends to suppress the matter and they are never allowed to speak of it. Sad, but this is the world that we are living in.

Then again, if the victim themselves do not come to terms by accepting their mental health condition. It would be so difficult for their family to express their help and support or to help carry their burdens with them. Yes, providing such assurance can be daunting on a daily basis, then again family members ought to understand that such love and support is greatly needed. 

At the end of the performance, we were told not to expose any of the spoilers or leak any of the story plot that was prepared diligently for the audience to enjoy such an impactful play. Bravo bravo bravo once again! 

Demise by Cavell Lim Zi Gui

This publication came to me, truly with a pleasant surprise when I was just merely searching for the word "Kasut Manek" (directly translated as "Shoe Beads"). To justify my action on the search was mainly because my aunt used to make one of these shoes as side income or pass time before she became a grandmother.

Here's a little background on why Kasut Manek sparks my interest. My mother was born in a small state called Malacca, a historical state where birth of Malaya (now Malaysia) starts. Subsequently, the origins of where the Baba-Nyonya (aka Peranakan) community came about is actually where my mom and her siblings grew up. Hence, the crafting of these Manek shoes are very much a reminiscence of laughter and snacks between the 2 sisters whilst exchanging ideas on the kind of designs they agreed to sew.

What Cavell did cleverly in this short and powerful depiction on the art of making a "Kasut Manek" has it's sentimental values. His worry was whether such iconic traits (within the South East Asian region) will be long gone if legacies are not brought forward in today's technological advancements. Then again, he cared enough by capturing the essence of the Peranakan culture, in which he purposefully includes every aspects of ethnic origins, religions and politics.

For starters, Cavell brilliantly journeyed his audience on a detailed level craftsmanship on the making of these shoes. Nevertheless, he has made an extra effort by interviewing Mr Sng's journey in crafting something so tastefully beautiful but also by carrying on the colours of Peranakan culture. Minimal mistakes on a typo error with the term "Dondang Sayang" could very much be an auto-correct from an Office Application, the rest was very well thought-out with so much soul into it.

To me, would anyone care enough to think that such traits would still be carry on? Never in a million years would I find a treasure that was written, researched and depicted with so much heart and effort. Flavorful as this might sound, I would suggest readers to read it off with the link that I will be providing at the end of my review.

In conclusion, if I ever got a chance to appreciate this piece of treasure, I definitely would! The idea of archiving an article by bringing back our forefather's culture back to life is a million to none (over the internet). Then again, kudos to Cavell whom he has done an amazing job by allowing me to reminisce such a beautiful memory that even the scent of these beads are close to my nostrils than ever before!

Link: https://issuu.com/cavelllimzigui/docs/demise

REVIEW: You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown - 2017 by Sifu Production

"Happiness is morning and evening, day time and night time too..." 2017 has been a year of many musicals experience for Malaysia. Well, it is for me. With so many of our local artistes, be it stage, creative teams or management, they all have been neglected by the local's public eye. If one would say that only the International Productions are worth watching, then my take to prove them wrong with You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown because it will be a thrill ride for all fellow Malaysians.

Indeed, there aren't many theatres that are solely built for big stage productions here in Malaysia but with what's available, I think they are more than enough to deliver such performances in terms of standards and qualities.

The establishment of Sifu Production was not in vain as Freddy Tan (one of the Founder of Sifu Productions), Director of this musical were one of the many that bought the rights of this 1999 award winning Broadway Musical into our doorstep. Assisted alongside, with director William Yap, (also an established stage director for many of our local Chinese production) which contributed his experiences in directing a full scale musical.

A worthy mention, with all media interviews, they did not factor in the hours they spent busting their all in order to bring us a show which is as close as travelling to the Big Apple that anyone could've asked for.

Staying faithful to most of the original arrangements, the cast did make a slight adjustment here and there. In all of it's praises, all characters in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown are so genuine, you will think that you're in the room playing with them if you're a big fan of Peanuts.

The cast, Peter Ong was initially given the title role before Joel Wong replaced him for an injury that needed prolong nursing and therapy. Eventually, the role of Schroeder, will be replaced by an upcoming talent, Izen Kong.

The creative team has brought You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown to life on the Damansara Performing Art Centre's stage with a very cute cartoon-ish prop designers, Simon Lee & Joanne Ooi. Set designer, Zen Tan. Lighting designer, Amelia Tan. Sound engineer, Mohd Najib. Choreographer, Tunku Atiah, Musical directors are Fly Halizor and Loh Ui Li accompanied by band members Saizuddin Bin Biden and Him Ee Jeng. They, too, played the entire score very well, without an inch of mistake to be heard. 

A very vibrant costume designer that fits this performance very well by Zamri Saidin. Lastly, the stage managers are Keilly Lim and assisted by Joanne Ooi.

Honorable mentions of the cast which brought the house down with a standing ovation performance. Actors performance review in alphabetical order based on their first name:

Benjamin Lin, he is THE Snoopy!!! Our Snoopy!! My Snoopy! He stole my heart away when he started his first woof in the very first number. No one is suppose to understand him except the audience. He made us relate with his frustration that all the audience felt connected. I couldn't stop smiling when "Red Baron" was up right after intermission. I know I am going to miss his character dearly when I knew "Suppertime" has ended.

Ivan Chan Atienza, that cute little Linus, the one who always sucks his thumb with his blanket with him as his companion. His ability to sing with that short tongue deficiency and accent included, caught us by surprise how much he could hold off the entire show. "My Blanket And Me" gave a tender moment when it comes to being detached from his blanket was portrayed very very well. And that moment, he assured his sister Lucy, that no matter what, he will stand by her side. That was a true touching moment to applaud for!

Izen Kong, his character as Schroeder wasn't pronounced at the beginning. Not until when his number "Beethoven Day" came up, he literally stole the show with his vocal abilities with his stage presence. What I truly like about him is that he nicely irascible the character as how Schroeder should be. He prove to us with a really good time during "Glee Club Rehearsal" with a touch of adorable geekyness towards the end. His love for Beethoven is pronounced and his hostility towards Lucy was every bit of an entertainment to us all. No matter how, he is always darling to Lucy.

Joel Wong, behold he is completely believable as Charlie Brown. I have my confession that I doubted him at first, when Peter left for recovery. Now, Joel prove me wrong with his nerdy looking boyish feature. He is able to look and search within himself by exploring with his peers whether is he a really good man. Without a doubt, Joel could sing very well. His portrayal as Charlie is very much anyone could have asked for. He is able to draws our our sympathy for him. Will Peter Ong be proud of him? I know I would.

Safia Hanifa, is a standout actress for her role as Lucy. She has a great stage presence as the ebullient girl with a distinctly catty edge. She screams, she shouts, she sings and annoys the living hell out of everyone including the audience. As long as she's on that stage, she caught me by just turning all my attention and direction towards her annoying portrayal. She made that introduction announcement before the show starts with so much enthusiasm which got me all ready for what we're about to embark.

Tria Aziz, I lover her to bits as Sally Brown!!! My favourite song is "My New Philosophy" and she pulls it off effortlessly! Yup, she has this oddly witty jovial character side in her. My hats off to her soprano vocal abilities and there was much more to her and her relationship with the cast. She made me laughed so hard during "Rabbit Chasing". In the end, I have a soft spot for her as an actress. I truly adore her!

The issue with this musical is that among the high quality acting and some sharply funny dialogue is a nagging sense that the musical as a whole could be a tad bit tighter.

Other than that, there is so much to enjoy in this sharply observed local revival of the show, particularly the very strong and convincingly directed cast.

This production itself made me, as a Malaysian, very proud that we are able to produce a musical with such qualities and standards. I hope this not be the last because I would very much love to see more shows such as this! Bravo!

Dane Curse by Matt Abraham

**I was given this book with an honest review.** 

The author has approached me for an honest review. And this book has came to me as a surprise. Alright, in all honesty when I first started picking this book out, I wasn't in the mood for Mystery & Thriller. So I put it back down and go on reading something else. Then again, I pick it up and I got myself all interested with the plot line and read it like reading a comic.

I must say, I like how the world building premise setup, and it is enough for me to get around the map in my head.  Not too massive and very city based, which I think we're able to relate well especially those who reads comics regularly. I love how writing has taken it's course for readers to get by easily. Nothing fancy in which readers are able to relate with the character faster.

I do not have a strong command in English especially when it comes to grammar, however I only have issues with missing punctuation. It kinda disrupt the reading flow as I have to re-read it a few times to know how the author is conveying the tone of writing. Overall, is not a big deal but it would be smoother with the right punctuation.

Plot wise, I need to applaud the author for the plot. I know it's going to be a big twist but I didn't know it's gonna be that epic. It was really fun with all the non-stop actions flying around the city and buildings. From machine guns to lasers to certain degrees of wave power by throwing people off. Now that was really a fun read. No doubt, the technology of this world seems very advance for our time and it goes off with futuristic advantage to most of the characters.

Now, about the characters, Dane is one person I like. He's groovy and slick. No doubt, he's a Private Investigator but then again he has a sense of style that I really enjoy reading about. Well, he has his way around with girls, I must say. 

My personal rant, can we ship him with Fangirl together? I really enjoy their chemistry together. Seriously, put them together and solve the mystery together. That would be so cool!

I wanted to give 4.5 stars due to the punctuation, but hey who's to say my reviews are perfect with or without them. Haha!! 5 stars it is!

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads Review Links

Pretty Little Things by Jilliane Hoffman

My little sister knew I was a crime thriller geek when I first started reading as a hobby. So, she gave me a task to see whether I'm able to find out who the psycho is in this book. I took up her challenge and read it without hesitation.

The book introduced us to our victim and was immediately being held captive is less than 5 chapters. So, this is where we are being introduced to our investigator and the plot starts to flow. I'm quite fond of the writing because this book is written from different point of views (POV). Hence, it makes it very interesting in reading how different opinions solves this crime. 

Without a doubt, I knew who the kidnapper was before half of the book. Now I was dreading to know how the ending is going to happen because there were other cases involved while the rest of the world is trying to solve this one. Trust me, this book is written with a slight graphic violence and gore. Very well executed with every little bit details that might cause you your appetite. 

What caught me off guard was the ending twist. It was so well thought off with subtlety. I applaud the author for doing so.  In a way, my sister has got me all interested in reading Crime Thriller again. I personally love Crime and Political thriller and I might want to get started with Archer's "Clifton Chronicles" soon.

Ratings: 4 out of 5 stars.

Goodreads Review Link

After the Prophet: The Epic Story of the Shia-Sunni Split in Islam by Lesley Hazleton

I was being introduced to this book when I got my very first Kindle as a gift from my cousin and cousin in-law in Singapore. They were nice enough to ask me whether I'm open in reading books from other religions. Of course I'm open! Moreover, this book is about the history of Islam. Here's a little background about my whereabouts, I'm born and breed in a Muslim country all my life and I would really give anything to further understand the context of the history of Islam.

I do not despise the religion because most religion preaches good teachings and it's worth the time to get hold of these knowledge. Moreover, it's the epic story of the Shia & Sunni split. And it was after reading this, I came to realized that my country is practicing the Sunni Islam so this book might come a little of a bias toward the Shia's practice.

It all started with the ever famous Prophet Muhammad. It is set during his last days before his death, while every one is anticipating who is the next Khalif to be. Now, here's where all the controversies and political misunderstanding started. There were many versions of how this story is being conveyed. One might say that the Shia or Sunni is the true Islam Doctrine and one might argued that they are not.

Lesley is smart enough to bring us back to yesteryear on how it all got started. It was dramatically portrayed with opinions with basic facts from the Quran. There were certain parts where it might be a little gory during wars and political schemes. Well, even the Old Testament from the Bible has it's fair share of violence too. So, embrace it with an open mind.

Lesley points out some good arguments where one is truly faithful with the teachings of Islam and the other is greedy with power, favor and of course money. This is where many is able to define that Lesley is bias towards the Shia group and it looks really bad on the Sunni ones. In my opinion, vast majority are of the Sunni Muslim and this book is not in favor of how they came about and it might trigger many unsatisfied people among the group which causes disunity among the Shia-Sunni where it has already started since the 7th century til today.

Overall, I love how this book is able to open many of my understanding in the Islam context. In which it has started my curiosity even more and would really love to give myself chance to read more on the life of Prophet Muhammad.

Ratings: 4 out of 5 stars

Goodreads Review Link

At First Sight 02 - The Queen & the Homo Jock King by T.J. Klune

So, this is the direct sequel to "Tell Me It's Real" and I pick it up to read it without any hesitation. I was in for another treat like how I love it for the first. 

Verdict: I did not thoroughly enjoyed it as much as the first but I love every moment of it. So much so on how twisted the plot's direction has taken it's readers to a another level.

Not forgetting the lovable characters of the Austere family including Vincent. They, too continue to play in a significant role in this. They are very much involved on planning the wedding, whereby Sanford (Helena) is the planner. However, circumstances took place where Sanford has to ally with Darren (his so-called arc nemesis due to sour past).

The writing was easy and light. Always a plus point for any Klune's readers to enjoy. Characters are very well thought off, however at times I'm really confused between Paul and Sanford. I know they are like blood brothers but then again, I do have difficulties in differentiating both conversations while I'm reading on a fast pace.

I like how this is a romance genre and Klune has kept all sex scenes to a minimal. Sometimes it can be a little graphic but it still maintains to a minimal level. I like how this goes as a sequel. Humour is what kept the story going. Klune has never lost touch on the humour aspects of the series. It is still intact of all it's course and many a times I laughed out loud too. Klune as an author is way too underrated! I demand for a full-fledged publicity for this guy.

As I am writing this review, I didn't know there will be a third book in this series! Titled "Until You", which is the anticipated wedding between Paul and Vincent when both Sanford (Helena) and Darren will be planning their wedding. I hope it is gonna take up to another level of Drama, Laughter and Sexual Innuendos for all characters in the series. That would be the Grandest Finale of all time.

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads Review Link

American Gods Series 01 - American Gods by Neil Gaiman

This would be my very first Neil Gaiman's book and I have picked this up not because this is going to be a TV series, but because it was really hyped up with good God's mythology plot line. I will try to be as diplomatic as possible. 

I do no hate it per se but the execution of the book is somewhat not what I've expected. Though I've bought the 10th anniversary edition and only to realize that there were many things has been included into this version from the original publication. Hence. it is even a more wordy read. I've started picking this book up in the month of July 2015, and I got stalled since then and got me into a drastic reading slump from then on.

Personally, I do like Gaiman's writing. It conveys and yet it has some elements that makes the whole thing works. I was literally stuck at where Shadow was in the Lakeside Town and he was getting to get familiarize with the folks, practices and cultures over there. Now, when the plot concentrates into the lives of the Lakeside town, I was no longer interested anymore. I don't know whether is it just me, but the slump itself has causes me to stalled a nearly good year with other reading materials. To be even more honest, I feared in picking up another fantasy book from then on.

That aside, I love how the execution of Mythology has been written in the context of our time. It was cleverly done with a lot of sudden magic, bargains and threats. Weird sexual fantasies among mentioned with some gods that was described in full images all over our imaginations. This is some R rated shit we're reading here, and this is suppose to be an Adult Fiction with great depths of the understanding of other gods as well.

I would love to say that this is something not be missed however, I do have my issues with certain things. If you are an avid fast pace Fantasy reader, please do give this book sometimes as the built up is not as quick. It needed time to simmer into our heads before the grand finale of the plot kicks in.

At the end of the book, Gaiman did say he missed out one of the most talk gods in all generation and was still thinking whether this was supposed to be added into the amended plot or whether it should be taken out. He wasn't sure at all, but the excerpt was in there for readers to judge whether that few pager would made it worthwhile for all readers or it will just cheese some readers off as that part of the scene might be to draggy.

Overall, I liked it but it wasn't great for me. A person who was brought up in a multi cultural environment which was able to pick up most of these major mythology stories on other gods, wouldn't been blown away. Why? If this is big, I guess the ones from the Asia as a whole would made it into a more Religious Fantasy in a larger scale in which it will has it's own universe and all that crap. Let's not get into that and hope the TV series would execute it from a better perspective and outlook of it. Whether or not the TV series would remain PG or , that I would be interested to know.

Ratings: 3 out of 5 stars

Goodreads Review Link

The Mistborn Series 3.5 - Secret History by Brandon Sanderson

Now this was a big surprise to many of Sanderson's fans. Especially for those who's closely following the Cosmere universe. I have not venture "The Stormlight Archive" series since the current print has only 2 books out of 10, my take would be, taking my time with that series since they are humongous-ly intimidating.

Note: Brandon's suggested to read this ONLY after reading "The Bands of Mourning". (I would highly agree with this suggestion due to certain happenings in that book itself)

Do I consider this as a novella? I would say that it's a companion of what's the real behind-the-scene of the Final Empire trilogy. There were many "AHA!" moments which made readers go, "This makes much more sense rather than being left unexplained throughout the course of the Mistborn series." (Mind you, the original Mistborn series is very well thought off but there were some being left unexplained). It will definitely cross-over to the Wax & Wayne story whereby the development of how it all happens even though it has been 300 years later.

I don't think I am able to further breakdown this review without spoiling anything. This book itself is bringing us closer to "The Cosmere" universe and we definitely still want more. Should I be reading "Elantris" next? I don't know but it seems to have a certain connection to it.

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads Review Link

The Mistborn Series 06 - The Bands of Mourning by Brandon Sanderson

So, it's the continuation of the Wax and Wayne story from where we left off in "The Shadow of Self". There was a closure in that book and that would make readers like me by anticipating this book even more. Cut the crap and let's go into the good stuff.

Let me get it off my chest, I am in love with Steris in this book so much more than the first 2 books. Her character development has improved vastly and she makes the whole series even more interesting than I thought. The chemistry between Steris and Wax are to die for through out the book. The adventures here did not fail readers as there were more magic systems are being used and taken advantage of here.

Plot was a mystery at the beginning til the middle part of it. Remember, this is the second last book before the Finale of the Wax and Wayne trilogy. Many new things pop up right in front of my eyes that made me gawked. I wasn't expecting something to be so advanced when things happens.

Moreover, the new race, new mystery and new crap just happened in this book that make me puzzled whether I'm reading the same book as before. Many things where left hanging from the original trilogy. Many has not been said and told in the days of the Final Empire. What is it that causes the Bands of Mourning stood out is the advantage of knowing that there were new race, new languages and new technology.

You said that this was a steampunk-like book, I guess we will be heading something so ahead of our time and would made it into a real Sci-Fi Epic/High Fantasy genre that readers are going to get their mind so fucked up blown. Excuse my language, but I wouldn't know how to express any better than that anymore.

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

Goodreads Review Link

Freaking out moments #24 - William Kent Krueger (@WmKentKrueger)

As usual, getting the slightest attention from author itself makes me really happy! I might not know them all that well but the fact that they have responded to my tweet, I'm all STOKED!!!

Personally, I have not read any of his Cork O'Connor series. But "Ordinary Grace" itself has already blown me away. I might want to try it one day .

Official Website:  William Kent Krueger
Tweet: @WmKentKrueger

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes (@jojomoyes)

And I thought this book falls under the Romance genre. To my surprise, this book has brought me into a whole new level of Romance that I have never read before. I am so shaken up about this journey called life that no one is able to live through this with unending tears. I'm in total admiration of their bravery.

I must admit, I thought I knew it all when it was being told from the beginning the exact intention of hiring Louisa Clark as the carer for Will Traynor. I couldn't have been more wrong when the excerpt was thrown to my face during Nathan's explanation on what Will has went through. I must confess, that I was in a state of selfishness to think like a dictator on how to live a good life.

Euthanasia is still by far illegal in most countries. This book did not promised the definition of it but it has brought you through it with so much love, joy and uncertainty. The movie adaptation will be out by June 2016. And by the look of the movie trailer itself, both Emilia Clarke & Sam Claflin did a fantastic job in portraying these characters with much dignity and pride.

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

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Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger (@WmKentKrueger)

This book is so beautiful. Historical Fiction is where my comfort zone is, and til today it never fails to grab my attention. This book covers both Historical Fiction and Crime Mystery elements in it too. It was set in 1960s and the nostalgia of it brings in so much flavor into the the story line. Endless old vehicle brands were mentioned, as you are able to imagine the old glory days of how rugged there were.

We are told in the perspective of Frankie. He is the older son, middle child, of a Pastor in that community and as mischievous as he can be, he seems to be really nosy around the neighborhood. Why, if not, there wouldn't be a story to tell at all. It's fascinating how the story is being brought to life through many simple ways, some might say back-to-basics, in the days of the 60s. Good food, caring neighborhood, and a united community... what is there to complain?

The fact that this book has a mystery elements in it, I would rather remain my silence by allowing you to enjoy how it's solved. There was a shocked factor but I kinda brought the rating 1 star down because I knew who it was the moment someone went missing. I was an avid reader of the Crime and Political thrillers before I joined the Internet book community. So, I kinda spoiled myself  because there was a little giveaway in the middle when the crime starts to unfold itself. 

Overall, this was a wonderful read. I love how the author delivers his message through 4 types of death. It's written beautifully! Give it a go!

Some of my favorite quotes:

"He who learns must suffer. And even in our sleep pain, which cannot forget, falls drop by drop upon the heart, until, in our despair, against our will, comes wisdom through the awful grace of God."

"And what is happiness? In my experience, it's only a moment's pause here and there on what is otherwise a long and difficult road. No one can be happy all the time. Better to wish for wisdom, a virtue not so fickle."

"It seemed good to be dead and by that I mean that if the dead cared no more about the worries they'd shouldered in life and could lie back and enjoy the best of what God had created it was a day for exactly such."

"God never promised us an easy life. He never promised that we wouldn't suffer, that we wouldn't feel despair and loneliness and confusion and desperation. What He did promise was that in our suffering we would never be alone. And though we may sometimes make ourselves blind and dead to His presence He is beside us and around us and within us always. We are never separated from His love. And He promised us something else, the most important promise of all. That there would be surcease. That there would be an end to our pain and suffering and our loneliness, that we would be with Him and know Him, and this would be heaven."

"The truth is that when you kill a man it doesn't matter if he's your enemy and if he's trying to kill you. That moment of his death will eat at you for the rest of your life. It'll dig into bone so deep inside  you that not even the hand of God is going to be able to pull it out, don't care how much you pray. Multiply that feeling by several years and too many doomed engagements and more horror than you can possibly imagine. And the utter senselessness and the total hopelessness become your enemy as much as any man pointing a rifle at you. And because they were officers, some men were forced to be the architects of that senselessness, and what they asked of themselves and of the men they commanded was a burden no human being should have to shoulder."

Ratings: 4 out of 5 stars

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The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

I love this book so much. It makes the world so colorful. This book never promise that life is a bed of roses but it was written with so much love. Much things has happened and yet you still feel homely and you yearn for more. Nevertheless, it still has to end.

I have no words to describe how much this books makes me feel. 

*Hugs* everyone!!!

This is still my favourite movie of all time!

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

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Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

You know you're in for a treat when you are reading a book that is based on a post-apocalyptic world. Many might think this would be another Dystopian worthy book which made many readers now cringe every time some of this words mentioned. In this case, it's not.

This is what most post-apocalyptic book should be. It was written so well that you know you're in the same world with a total disability on the basics of life after a pandemic flu outbreak and destroy most of mankind. To begin with, some might think that the end of everything is due to war but this book has brought us to a whole new paradigm on how mankind can be destroyed with just a simple deadly virus.

It was written with care on how humans will be like during moments such as this. Some of your close ones are stuck in some random parts of the world (ehem, my home country was mentioned) and the rest of the world would just siren a stand down and you are being set apart just like that.

How it was written very much reminds me of the TV series "The Walking Dead" which creeps the crap out of me. One has to go through the agony of finding whether are there survivors out there after many days of hiding in the room. The fundamental of survivor-hood during times likes this is it crucial? Everything now has been so taken care of that these basic knowledge of starting a fire is so essential to mankind. Mind you, there is no more electricity and internet. 

The world became so big once more where the main source of communication has been cut off! So much for Globalization. This book has been thumping into our heads, what would you do when you lost all of WHAT-YOU-THINK is basic to you now is no longer basic when you have no fire and clean water to begin with.

This is a great book and I just got to know that this book is already in the progress of turning into a movie. I would love to see how all of this turns out.

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

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The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Timothy Keller

I know of many who has heard Jesus's ever famous parable "The Prodigal Son". And I know of many who hasn't got the chance to hear about it too, which I think they might have a hint since many story's adaptation has minor hints of this parable. In my years of being a believer of Christ, this parable speaks to me in so many ways. It has so many dimensions that this can be a very good material for all people (especially Christians).

Only 7 chapters and this book is able to astound me by realizing how one parable is able to sum up the Bible as a whole. I never knew who was the original audience that Jesus was REALLY speaking to when it was being told.

Tim Keller started out by clarifying the definition of Prodigal:
1) Recklessly Extravagant
2) Having Spent Everything

Note this, this parable was a response to the grumbling Pharisees around him and Jesus starts the story by saying "There was a man who had two sons." Now, this is where the discussion starts.

Firstly, Timothy has laid down all the foundation of the Middle Eastern patriarchal practices when he further breakdown the story by explaining how inappropriate these two sons has shown towards their father. Secondly, this book shows us there were two types of sons who sins against the father. The "Younger Brother" is the one who has rebel but repented. The "Elder Brother" would be the one who refuses to forgive both the father & brother for what he thinks he should be the one getting rewarded.

Our society is divided into two cultures, as Keller points out. The culture of the "older brother" is the conventional moral conformist, commonly known for "stability" as well as striving to please authority figures. The "younger brother" culture lives by their own rules, walking a path of self-discovery. Every person gravitates to one of these two categories, and some combine the two. Both cultures proclaim, "If those people would follow our example, the world would be a better place." Our problem is that, no matter what side of the cultural divide we land on, we still play the role of the two lost sons, alienating ourselves from the Father by a self-centered focus on either keeping all the rules or breaking them all.

Overall, I love how this parable has executed for the greater good for the Christian community. Now I know why many are getting away from the Christian's faith. It is because of us who portrays so much like the "Elder Brother" that drives people away from God. Good read!

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

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Saga Series 12 - Chapter Twelve by Brian K. Vaughan

No way! No *effin* way!!! You can't just end it like that. It's illegal! This is an abomination to end such a fantastic build up. You can't possibly expect to me to be left hanging just like this. It's wrong! It's abusive to the readers!

The whole build up was fantastic. The dreams, the interrogation and the whole drama that was placed right in front of the readers face. Wait, am I assuming too much that Prince Robot IV is a little bi-curious? I literally saw his monitor flashing gay orgies with tons of penis in it. Is that why he's avoiding to go home?

This will be the end of Volume 02 in the series. So good!

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

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Saga Series 11 - Chapter Eleven by Brian K. Vaughan

Alright, I wanna get back from where I left off. And it looks like the first few pages was a little too R rated for my opinion. Nonetheless, it's part and puzzle of life and it was a flashback scene. So, just deal with it.

They were in the middle of a giant planet fetus type that was sucking them all into a giant mouth vault. Saving themselves is a current daunting task where this tree spaceship isn't their best option to speed up as expected. Compromising for everyone's safety, a life has been sacrificed and flashback memories of how important this person is has tone down the softer side of Marko and it was amazingly executed.

Still an amazing series!

Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars

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